#i'm writing this instead of studying WHICH IS EXACTLY WHY I WANT TO SHAKE MYSELF

[as-rare-as-trees]

Terribly BITTER because I can't split into two people just to grab myself by the shoulders and shake me violently

[apenapaperandadoofus]

Can you write something in which the RFA learns about Jumin's mother, it just irks me that they don't realize the damage they unintentionally perpetuated with the way they treat him. Specially Zen, I'm sure they'll be baffled if they just knew...

YES this one is amazing actually, I'd love for them to understand him better bc they do treat my man poorly :'(

RFA finding out about Jumin's mother (mentions of emotional abuse)

After a year of being together, you and Jumin decided to move out of the penthouse and go and live at his old childhood home. You were a bit nervous about the whole change, but Jumin assured you that it was all going to be alright.

You fell in love with the house as soon as you saw it, and that night as you laid in your bedroom with Jumin, you talked about the place, and about your future.

"This is the place I'd want to raise our children." He murmured against your skin that night, and you smiled as you imagined the happy future that would await the two of you.

A few weeks later, after the two of you had gotten everything ready, you decided to do a housewarming party, and so, you invited the whole RFA.

You handed out appetisers with Jaehee by your side, as Jumin and V chatted, probably catching up after a while of not seeing each other. Yoosung was talking with Saeran, while Zen was dramatically moaning in the corner as Saeyoung played with Elly and tried to get her as close as Zen as possible.

After you were done eating, Yoosung stood up from the sofa. "Oh! Hey guys, you haven't even done a house tour yet, that's the most important thing!"

Jumin looked at Yoosung. "Hmm... a house tour? I don't see why not. Are you alright with it love?" He asked you and you nodded, standing up from your spot and grabbing Jaehee's hand.

"I'm actually pretty excited to show you all around! C'mon!" You said as you led everyone out of the living room and showed them around the rooms.

Everytime you showed the group a new room, Yoosung would let out a gasp and moan about how lucky the two of you were to have such a giant house, while Zen would scoff and say, "why do you even have these many rooms? I bet you don't even use them all."

Eventually you all made it up to the third floor, where you showed them your room and the guest rooms. As you explained to Jaehee and V what you wanted to do with one of the rooms (you wanted to build your own office and were asking for their input on the decorations) Yoosung found a room at the top of some small stairs and slowly opened it.

"Woah what's this!?" He asked as he went inside, with Zen following behind him.

"Oi, trust fund kid, why is there a room full of creepy toys?" Zen said, and then Saeyoung whistled as he looked around.

"You know this looks as if it was from those creepy horror movies where the kid dies in here or something and becomes a ghost to haunt everyone! Saeran look at these toys!"

The younger twin only rolled his eyes but did agree that it was a pretty creepy place.

You had never really seen the room before, so you were really confused too. You looked at Jumin and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Hey Jumin, did you know this was here?" You asked, and he nodded.

You exchanged a look with V, since it was pretty clear Jumin was feeling a bit uncomfortable. You cleared your throat trying to get the other guy's attention.

"Hey everyone, why don't we go downstairs now? I think lunch is ready."

Yoosung popped his head out from the room, an elephant plush on his hand. "Awww but I was actually having fun! Besides, Jumin hasn't even explained why you have this place.... wait." He looked you up and down and let out a small scream. "MC DON'T TELL ME YOU'RE PREGNANT!? SINCE WHEN, AND SO EARLY!? YOU TWO AREN'T EVEN MARRIED, I MEAN CONGRATS BU-"

Zen immediately walked out of the room and gaped at you, then he glared at Jumin.

"No way, YOU GOT MC PREGNANT? DUDE WHAT THE HELL ISN'T SHE A BIT TOO YOUNG TO-"

"OH MY GOD CAN I NAME THE BABY?!" Saeyoung screamed from behind and you sighed. Jaehee, thankfully cleared her throat and quieted the guys down.

"Why don't we listen to what MC wants to say instead of coming up with random conclusions? And Saeyoung, stop touching the toys, please we don't know if they hold a special meaning to Jumin."

You gave her a grateful smile and then looked at Jumin. "Well, I don't exactly know what this place is, but I am definetly not pregnant! We aren't ready for that yet haha. Anyways, maybe Jumin doesn't really want to talk about this place, so why don't we go back down?"

The boys let out a disappointed sigh but started leaving the room in a single line, and you were about to nag them when you felt a hand on your shoulder. You turned around and saw Jumin, who was giving you a small smile.

"It's alright love, thank you. I think I can tell them...after all they're my friends and I trust them."

Saeyoung let out a whoop and held a small duck finger puppet he had found inside.

"Yes! I can't wait to listen to what crazy things Jumin used to do as a child, I mean, this used to be your play room right?? What I don't get though is why it's in an actual basement, and the reason it feels so gloomy...you didn't murder someone in here did you!?"

"Saeyoung please." V spoke up from behind him and looked towards Jumin's direction, a worried expression on his face. "Jumin, you don't have to tell them, why don't we go and eat?"

Jumin shook his head and smiled at his friend. "It's fine. Like I said before, the RFA is a group I whole heatedly trust, and I'm alright with telling them. They did ask after all."

"What's the big deal?" Zen grunted. "This was probably just a room where he would play. That's all. Although I have to admit I'm surprised you even have a whole toy room for yourself. I didn't think you were one to play with toys."

Jumin smiled, although you could see that it was a sort of sad, forced sort of smile.

"You're correct, I wasn't the sort of kid that used to play with toys. Instead, I loved to read and investigate about things that intrigued me. I also enjoyed studying."

Zen scoffed. "Of course, so you had a whole room full of toys that you never used. Seriously, do you rich people care that little about everyone else? There must've been plenty of kids without any toys at home that would've killed for a room like this."

"Zen." You glared at him and he stopped, a guilty look appearing briefly on his face.

"I'm just saying..."

"Love, it's fine. He's right in a way." Jumin said. "These toys were a sort of...present from my mother. She didn't like that I wasn't like other kids, that I didn't really play with toys. So she decided to buy a bunch of them and give them to me, to see if I would finally play with them. I didn't really find them interesting though, so that only made her more exasperated in a way. To this day I don't really understand what would make her so angry but it did. She ended up filling the basement with toys and then she would lock me up in here for hours to try and get me to play with them."

You felt your eyes widen, and everyone in the RFA stood in silence as they listened to Jumin who was saying all of this in a really nonchalant way.

"Jumin...I didn't know. For how long would she lock you up?" You asked, and Jumin shrugged.

"Sometimes it'd be between four hours, if not more. One time she locked me for 15 hours straight."

"That's horrible!" You gasped. And Jumin caressed your cheek. "Jumin I'm, I'm so sorry. We shouldn't have...I'm sorry." You buried your face in his chest and hugged him tight.

"It's alright love, it's all in the past now. And I don't mind sharing it with the RFA. They're my friends and it's fine if they know. Now, why don't we go and eat? I'm sure you're all starving."

The whole group was suddenly startled by Jumin's sudden mood change but they nodded, unable to really say anything. You decided to leave downstairs first with V.

Yoosung quickly put the toy back in the room and shyly glanced up at Jumin, a guilty look on his face. "I'm...I'm sorry Jumin. We really shouldn't have been so nosy."

"Yeah... Yoosung's right." Saeyoung said from beside him, his tone serious. Jumin noticed that Saeyoung had a dark expression on his face, just like Saeran, as if they were suddenly remembering something. Saeyoung looked at Jumin and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"I'm sorry for joking about it. I'm sure it was hard...especially to tell us. Sorry for making you remember that...that horrible thing your mother used to do...no one should ever go through that."

Jumin smiled at his friend. "Like I said, it's alright. You all didn't know, and I trust you enough to tell you. I don't mind that you asked at all."

Yoosung and Saeyoung nodded, and gave Jumin encouraging smiles before following you downstairs. As Jaehee passed by she nodded at Jumin and looked as if she wanted to say something, but instead, she reluctantly grabbed his hand and squeezed.

Jumin felt himself taken aback for a bit, after all Jaehee had never really touched him like that before, and the only times she did, it was because they were shaking hands as boss and employee.

But this time, it was different. Jaehee was now touching him as a friend. Jumin felt his heart warm, happy at the thought of Jaehee seeing him as a friend and treating him as one.

She quickly let go and walked downstairs followed by Saeran who gave Jumin a nod.

Jumin looked back at the room and was about to close the door, when he noticed Zen standing stiffly behind him.

"Zen?" He asked, and the young actor only huffed, his face suddenly becoming red.

"Uhm. I...listen. This is the only time I'm saying this, and I'm not going to repeat myself alright? So pay attention. I'm...I'm sorry about the whole basement thing. Uhm, like Seven said, we shouldn't have tried to pry into your business like that."

Jumin felt the corners of his mouth twitch, but he tried his best to keep a serious expression. "Thank you Zen. To be frank, I'm surprised that you're actually apologizing for this, it wasn't really your fault."

Zen huffed. "Idiot, I'm apologizing because I made fun of the situation without knowing anything about it. And...I mean...I am also apologizing because I might've been too harsh in you all this time. Don't get me wrong, I still think you're a brat that has always had a silver spoon on his mouth, but I guess I never thought you might've dealt with some... pretty heavy stuff too." He blushed and tried to look anywhere that wasn't Jumin, who didn't know if he should laugh or just look at Zen in surprise.

"...I probably shouldn't be saying this but, I'm glad you told us. At least now I know that you're human like the rest of us and not a robot." Zen tried to joke, and Jumin smiled.

"I certainly am not, but I'm glad that your opinion towards me has changed. I still find it strange though that you would think I'm a robot, after all, currently it isn't possible to actually make a full functioning machine that behaves like a human. Actually if there was one then I'd like to know, maybe having a robot working on C&R would help us raise stocks even more than usual, I have to ask assistant Kang to-"

"Alright shut up, I get it, I get it. Anyway we should go downstairs, the rest are probably waiting for us to start lunch."

Zen quickly walked down but before he could completely leave Jumin grabbed his arm, making Zen freeze and glare at him.

"What?" He said.

Jumin chuckled. "Nothing. I'm just glad we got to understand each other better today."

Zen scoffed. "I...yeah whatever. And I mean...like I said I'm glad you told me. I know what it's like to...to have a parent force their ideas on you. I just want you to know that I understand. I-I mean, I still despise you but...listen next time just tell us something like that, don't keep it inside. You're...you're our friend after all and we do worry."

Jumin couldn't help the smirk that appeared on his face, and Zen coverrd his mouth with the back of his hand. "Yeah, yeah laugh all you want. Just don't tell anyone else that I told you this or I swear I'll never speak to you again."

Jumin chuckled. "Alright I won't."

"Good." Zen started going down the stairs.

"Hey Zen." Jumin said, making Zen sigh and look back at him with an eyebrow raised.

"You're a good friend. Thank you."

Zen felt himself blush once again and he quickly mumbled a 'you're welcome', then he quickly went downstairs.

Jumin locked the basement doors and went to the living room, where the RFA was talking. He smiled as he saw his group of friends joking around and teasing each other.

Thankfully the mood became lighter during lunch, and Jumin enjoyed talking with his friends. He was happy to be in a room full of people that he cared about deeply, and he felt even happier when you reached for his hand under the table and gave him a big smile.

The RFA behaved differently towards Jimin from that day on. It wasn't a bad different, but instead they started treating him like an actual person, that could have feelings and could joke around. From that day on Zen, Jumin and the twins definetly became closer, and even if Zen didn't want to admit it, he had really become fond of Jumin.

Eventually, you wanted to know what to do with the room, and Jumin decided to turn it into a nursery for your future kids.

"Jumin I...are you sure?" You asked him, and he nodded.

"I don't want to pass by that place and only remember the bad things. This time I want to make good memories in there, with you, and with our future family. I promise that I will try my best for all of you."

You smiled and kissed his nose. "Thank you Jumin. I'm sure that you'll be a great father, and I can't wait to start that new phase with you. Of course we have to get married first."

He chuckled and nuzzled your nose. "Yes, and I can't wait for the day where I get to call you my wife. I love you MC."

"I love you too Jumin."

[fayeimara]

Meant To Be || One For Every Billion

6. By My Side | Pt 5

It takes you just a moment to understand his last message but you're already looking up as the dots are being connected and there he is, walking towards you with a real smirk on his real face.

So when he reaches you, you immediately say, "Definitely cute." and watch his mouth drop as he blushes.

Pretty boy didn't think you'd say it, did he? People should really know better than to dare you.

Although he gathers his composure pretty fast, responding after a beat, "Not cuter than you."

You laugh and shake your head, finishing the rest of your drink before standing, "Do you want anything?"

"I'm good, I just had a milkshake from the snack bar on the corner."

He moves to let you pass by him, following your lead as you move to exit the lounge and comment, "That's how you got here so fast. Where are the others?"

"Decided to do their own things, I guess. I think Maki was tired. I don't know what Iwa-chan and Mattsun are up to."

"Uh huh." You had a pretty good idea. They're probably busy being some of the best wingmen ever. That or Toru just ditched his friends, but you don't think he'd really ever do that.

But he'd also be complaining a little more that they ditched him if he didn't have some sort of idea so... you don't know what to think. Which is becoming a constant issue in his presence but it doesn't feel bad or scary.

At this point, you're not going to question it. If everyone is okay and happy, then you're going to focus on the now. Toru is really good at bringing that out in you, you realize as you come to a stop in the warm night air.

Turning to face him with a smile, you ask, "So, then, any requests from the birthday boy?"

His eyes light up with excitement and he responds, "Yes, but it's a surprise!"

"Okay, but.. shouldn't I be surprising you?" You question as he starts to lead you away from the lounge entrance.

"You already did! Now I know we have all night to enjoy the rest of the park."

"Or at least until it closes in a couple hours."

"Then we can gather anyone who's still up and have a party in my room!"

"Yeah, that's real ambitious. We'll see on that but- what's first?"

He stops briefly when he sees a cotton candy stall and answers in his sing-song manner, "First, something sweet for my angel."

Oh he's so cute. Seriously. But you let him buy it for you before prompting, "And now?"

"And now," he looks over at you with a satisfied smile, "we enjoy a ride down a river in a boat." He reveals, just as the two of you reach the entrance to the small, peaceful dock.

"Don't they close the river rides after dark?"

"In ten minutes, actually. So we should hurry because it'll drop us off to our next destination."

You look at him in surprise as you both join the relatively short line. Did he have this planned for before, when he thought you were going to leave? It's a little bittersweet because that's really thoughtful but, it also makes you sad to realize that would mean that maybe he thought the two of you wouldn't see each other again until the next time you visited. It also made you question... Were you unintentionally pushing him away when you visited?

Or you're just overthinking as per usual and he just puts this much effort into it every time he's spending time with a girl he might like. Right.

The two of you reach the front of the line in just a couple minutes and listen to the instructions from the staff member who tries to hand you down into the automated boat. You say 'try' because Toru's hand cuts in between and he helps you instead, giving the guy a pretty condescending smile. He's not even threatened, just.. acting like there was no other possibility because, well, it's not even a contest. You can't lie, you like it.

You settle down and he gets in after you, pretty steady himself as he elegantly plops down into the seat next to you, his arms stretching forward for a brief moment before leaning back into the seat, shifting his legs forward, and placing his hands in his jacket pockets. And whatever he just did there.. that's pretty hot too.

As your boat moves away from the dock, you're struck by the romantic atmosphere of the ride. The quiet melody of the water you're gliding through, the trees dotting the sides of the river that sway with a breeze every so often, their branches reaching towards the water like the leaves are looking for a cool, gentle place to lay. You and Toru, under the stars that are peeking slightly out of the sky, like shy observers to your secret little adventure.

He isn't saying anything either, studying the environment and in his own thoughts you suppose, but you don't mind the silence. You do, however, offer him the cotton candy, tilting the base of the cone you're holding so it's angled towards him. He pulls a hand free from his pocket to reach out and grab a tuft of the cloud-like candy before popping it in his mouth with a smile.

"Do you think about where you want to be in the future?" He's looking up at the sky, head tilted back against the seat, when you look over at his question.

You bite your lip, considering what he's asking. You think way too much about it sometimes, you suppose. "How far in the future?"

He looks over at you in surprise, like he expected a quick answer instead of your clarifying question. Now it's his turn to think. "I guess in a few years, after graduating. What do you want to do?"

"What I want to do is probably very different from where I might be, I think."

"How so?"

You're both looking at each other, lost in another bubble together, so you try to be as honest to yourself as you want to be with him, "In an ideal world, I would either write or play volleyball. Realistically, I'll end up tied to... my family business more than I'd like. Which means I likely won't have the time or energy left to do the things I love."

His eyes are wide, you think he's realized he just turned a mountain, not a rock. Maybe even you wouldn't know what to say in response to someone who just said what you did. But then he surprises you yet again, "If you know what you want to do, what stops you from making sure that's where you end up instead, no matter what?"

"You know," you smile at him softly, "That's exactly the battle I'm currently fighting. So we'll see how it turns out, I guess."

"So," his voice turns teasing, "will you pick writing or volleyball, when you win?"

"Probably writing," you answer with a laugh, releasing the weight that just took a break on your shoulders.

"Why?"

"You love volleyball, right? So much that you can't see yourself doing anything but that for the rest of your life?"

He sends another shocked, wide-eyed look your way but you're surprised he doesn't realize how clear that is to read on him, how easily you figured it out really early in the course of your correspondence this past year. You tuck that away for another day and continue your answer to his question.

"I love both like that and, the way I see it, I'm lucky to be able to love more than one thing at a time. And because I do, they'll both always have a place in the future I want. So it's not really that I'm making a choice between one or the other, I'd be incapable of that. Volleyball will always be in my life, even if it isn't the same way it is now. It's just that I'll pursue writing as my vocation while continuing to enjoy volleyball however I can."

"So you won't go pro." He doesn't state it as a question but it sounds like there's still one in there somewhere.

"I don't think so. That's... a little more complicated."

He shifts to turn more towards you, pulling another piece of the cotton candy you're holding between the two of you and encouraging, "I've seen your videos, Y/n. You're as much, if not more, talented than either of your cousins."

You laugh again, "Aren't you a little biased, Oikawa?"

"Sure, but I'm still telling you the truth as I see it. You've already filled the gaps they lack as players, you almost seem to have none. You're part of the powerhouse teams in your region, even country. And you can only improve from there."

"Yeah. But it's not talent or skill or even anything about volleyball itself that makes me so sure about its role in my life."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"I promise, I will another day. But I know it'll be a long discussion and I want to hear your answer."

"My answer?"

"Where you want to be after you graduate."

"Don't you already know?" His lips pull up into a confident smile, "Because you said it, Y/n-chan. I can't see myself doing anything but playing volleyball for my future."

"No matter how you get there?"

"No matter how I get there." He confirms, watching you with a tilt to his head, "But I will get there."

"Of that, I have no doubt. I've seen you play, too."

And like that, his smile twists into a satisfied smirk, "Just on video, huh? You still have to come to one of my games in person, though."

"Oh, I do, do I?" You're grinning as the two of you fall back into lighthearted teasing.

"Of course. I think there's still a thing or two I could teach you."

"I'm sure. Without a doubt."

By the time the boat reaches the end of its line, the cotton candy is completely gone, much like any space between you both. The two of you are just short of leaning into each other, your sides already pretty much pressed against each other for most of the fifteen minute ride, as you and Toru talked and joked about various things with only the blinking stars and swaying trees as your witnesses.

You take a deep breath in as your boat approaches the dock, starting to pull away from him slightly, but you also catch the now-familiar scent of some product Toru uses and it smells divine. It's the sort of scent that makes you want to lean into his chest or neck and just relax while he holds you.

Oh my god. You need to slap yourself. That was pathetic, right? And after just one romantic boat ride, holy shit. You still have another hour and a half to go unless you completely bail on him. And for what? Because you caught yourself slipping? Again?

Ugh. No. You're here to be a good friend. And okay, take it slow and see what else could be between the both of you. But that shit wasn't slow.

You've pulled away, physically and metaphorically, by the time your boat docks but you still accept his hand as he helps you off, blocking the attendant yet again. He doesn't pull away though and neither do you, so you're still holding hands as you and Toru walk to your next destination.

Just taking it slow. Right... Shit.

Turns out your next destination is the carousel. You two keep switching horses, messing around until you're politely removed. After which you hit up some of the rides like the one that spins really fast so that you're pressed back against the reclined wall, or the one where you sit in a claw that swings you up, down, around, etc.

Following that, it's mini coasters and then upgraded back to some of your favourite thrill coasters from earlier in the day. You tell him it's a completely different experience at night. After the first one, he agrees. So you two hit up four more.

By the time the two of you get off the last one, teasing and laughing about who was screaming louder (it was him, obviously), you only have a little over twenty minutes left before the park closes. So your hand finds Toru's, your fingers lacing together with ease and electric familiarity by now, and you pull him along in order to run back to the hotel through the remaining crowd.

"Why are we going back?" He's barely even out of breath as he easily catches up to race beside you, but you guess neither are you. Thank you, conditioning.

"It's a surprise!"

The concierge barely startles when he sees two teens just run through, raising his hand to call out before lowering it in defeat. You're already gone anyways. You reach the elevator bay and hit the button for your floor, thankfully the door to the middle one opens immediately with a smooth tone. When the two of you get in for the ride up to the top floor, the pace steadies and you're just looking at each other while you each catch your breath, then you burst out laughing again.

"Okay so you're still not going to tell me?" There's a little bit of mock attitude in his tone but it's washed away by his genuine smile.

"Just wait."

The elevator dings as it reaches your floor and you're pulling him out with the doors barely open. The two of you reach your room and you swipe the card over the lock, opening the door, pulling you both through and closing it in swift motions before letting go of his hand and running to the balcony.

"Come on!"

You look back to encourage him forward as you open the double doors and he strolls up to your side before you both step out together. Just as you reach the rail, faint music starts to drift up from the park's speakers, getting louder and louder until you can hear its strains clearly, playing the orchestral melody that indicates the park will be closing in fifteen minutes.

It's what you can see only from up here that you wanted to show him. Because with the music that plays, there are lights quite literally at every inch of the park that turn on in an incredible show.

Many people gather on the streets or at particular locations for the ground level view. But those are always crowded and honestly a pretty limited view of the show's true scale. It's the guests who have park facing rooms and know to stop for the view from their balconies at this time that experience the true and complete nature of the stunning spectacle.

"Wow." He barely says it, it's more like a word he releases with his breath, but you're so happy knowing you were right.

This is the perfect ending to an incredibly special day that deserves no less. You and Toru stand there, side by side for the full fifteen minutes, still under the carpet of stars that seem a little closer from up here. The two of you hold hands, arms and sides pressed against each other as you both lean on the balustrade and listen to the crescendos and decrescendos, glancing at each other with smiles and the occasional comment. Sometimes pointing to a corner or edge of the park laid out beneath you to pull the other's attention with a tug on your linked hands.

And when the music starts its final rise only to move into its final descent, you look instead at Toru and find him looking back at you. With your hands still linked, you lean into him further to place a soft kiss on his cheek, mirroring the one from a year ago, this on his other side. Then you lean back to look at his flustered but happy face with a soft smile and add your wish for him to your blessing-

"Happy Birthday, Toru."

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Masterlist

Behind The Scenes!

-ngl but that moment when Toru takes a seat in the boat was fully inspired by my memory of him at the Karasuno vs Shiratorizawa match, just after Iwa hops over the seat like wow, but then the way Oikawa stretches out from his previous position... just more wow. Sorry, I can't explain it. I love that scene (and the others with those two that follow) and I don't know if I'm the only one it stuck with like this...

A/N: Okay...time for the vent... I will be the first to say that I love Kuroo and Suna primarily, and both the Miyas are a close second.. but I DO NOT KNOW HOW OIKAWA KEEPS PULLING THIS ON ME like... this whole episode really got away from me again. I mean, I did like Oikawa as a close second to Kuroo (who's been my steady the whole time, js, it's unwavering) for a LONG time before being intro'd to Inarizaki but... then Suna just came in and turned my head until I was like.. Oikawa, who? But maybe this just goes deep, so I didn't know he was always still in there. He IS incredibly lovable after all, you can't change my mind about that, and I really respect him as a complex character and okay, yeah, I honestly can't remember who was my first between him and Kuroo at this point because I was simping for them both before I really even remembered their names (and was trying to avoid being teased by my bf for rewatching scenes with them since he had to bribe me to watch the show in the first place). Anyways, I don't know what I'm saying anymore since I desperately need to go to sleep, maybe for a whole day, so I hope you guys like this one! Because.. just, yeah. Toru <3 I guess

Taglist: @delusivist, @prettyinblack231, @kac-chowsballs, @sakusasimpbot, @hawkthekinnie, @poppi144

[itsbenedict]

Two-Faced Jewel: Session 1-A

I've been playing tabletop games for TOO LONG without actually playing any D&D, and the time for that to change is now.

Zero and @eternalfarnham are Looseleaf and Saelhen du Fishercrown, a mothfolk animist and a half-elf conwoman whose travels take them to Blacksky University, where the discovery of an unknown magical artifact sets them on the path to discovering the secrets of a shattered world.

Oyashio, 親潮市, is known as the Crossroad City. It sits on the closest point between the two major continents of the world, alongside the swift currents of the fierce river-ocean that separates the two. People from all over the Jewel come here to find their fortunes.

Looseleaf is a new arrival to Blacksky University, the institution of higher learning that terrorizes the city with its warball hooligans and dangerous magical experiments. She's left her reclusive village to learn more about the cultures and peoples of the world, and has enrolled in the School of Natural Arts to pursue her dream.

The Lady Noeru de la Surplus is the down-on-her-luck scion of an elven noble family, here to complete her rite of succession and restore the good name of her clan.

Saelhen du Fishercrown is a half-elf disgrace who fled the stifling elven capital of Kanzentokai to escape its byzantine social order- and strike it rich by pretending to be the down-on-her-luck scion of an elven noble family and conning a bunch of elfaboo suckers out of their hard-earned gold. She's out to get rich and prove that elves can be assholes too, dammit!

*

Looseleaf leaves her room to discover- not her roommate, but a large half-orc woman rummaging through her oven.

She asks where Looseleaf keeps the swords.

It becomes clear that Bud Chestplate, here, is a friend of Oyobi Yamatake, Looseleaf's roommate, and Oyobi sent her to pick up some swords from the dorm. They make some small talk while searching, but Looseleaf fails her Investigation roll and can't find the swords for her. She leaves Bud to her business, since she needs to catch her meeting with the Dean.

Benedict I. (GM): So... you get to the Dean's office. It's a pretty large room- not because the Dean is particularly showoffy, but because Dean Mogher is a loxodon, and his office sort of needs to be big. Them elephant people, y'know. You've been asked to meet for an "academic consultation", and aren't sure what to expect.

Seems like Looseleaf needs to do some sort of independent study- and the Dean has something lined up for her, if she's interested. It's an artifact they recently got their hands on thanks to a rich donor, who wanted to learn more about it. It's super magic, so he had to pull some strings to keep it out of the hands of the School of Arcane Arts.

Looseleaf is excited about this!

Looseleaf: Looseleaf vibrates, shaking her wings kind of in the way that a dog might shake their body to remove dirt. This is moth body language for 'FUCK YES I AM SO READY FOR THIS I WAS BORN FOR THIS'.

Meanwhile... Saelhen has arrived in town. She's set herself up with a room in the city, made some public appearances to sell the story, and...

Saelhen has a plan. She'll pretend that this object is rightfully hers, as part of an arcane elven ritual to succeed the headship of her family- and hopefully badger the school into letting her get her hands on it.

She enters the school grounds via the student village, and meets a half-orc woman carrying a bunch of swords around for some reason- who she asks for directions. Bud obliges, despite being preoccupied.

Saelhen du Fishercrown: "Ah, I'm sorry! I didn't realize you were occupied by all those weapons." She bows at the prescribed angle for a small favor asked from a foreigner. "Your words are as 出鱈目外人向け. Thank you." Benedict I. (GM):出鱈目 is like, nonsense, bullshit, 外人 is gaijin, 向け is a suffix that means "for" bullshit for foreigners i love it

(Elven is Japanese here, for reasons.)

Saelhen follows the directions to the School of Arcane arts, and asks the receptionist- a tired-looking goblin girl named Two-Brains- where the Dean's office is.

Two-Brains directs her to the Moon Annex, a wing of the building identifiable by the river of moon symbols flowing along the floor. She reaches what is clearly the Dean's office, and hears a conversation within, that she opts to sneakily listen in on.

Benedict I. (GM): That'll do- you hear a whispered argument, fairly clearly. "...is he blackmailing you? Bribing you? This is clearly our department!" The voice is old and slightly screechy. A younger but still mature voice replies. "Please don't attack my character, Variable. Is my reasoning really that hard to understand?" "Yes," the older voice says. "It's the most magically powerful artifact that's ever come into our possession! How is this not of immediate concern to our department?" "You're failing to consider Coast's concerns, and those of our continuing research," the younger voice says. "Yes, this object is powerful- but learning its magic will scarcely tell us where it comes from. If we could find its source, we could find many more specimens of its kind for study."

It seems like Dean Variable Velocity of Arcane Arts (an elderly owl aarakocra in a wheelchair) really wanted to get her hands on the magic item, but Dean Coast Mogher of Natural Arts got this person to decide in his favor, instead.

Saelhen eventually opts to knock, and sees in the room with the Dean... an elf. Very tall, adorned in jewels, and wearing a very very large hoop dress that goes all the way down to the floor. This would be a problem for Saelhen, because actual elven nobility would see right through her disguise- but luckily, this woman- the provost of the university- is a drow, and not exactly welcome in the circles of elven high society.

The provost takes her leave, and Saelhen spins her sob story for Dean Velocity:

Saelhen du Fishercrown: "Madam Dean, I am sure that any matter requiring your attention might very well overrule my own. If your affairs require that you delay our discussion of the provenance of your college's recent acquisition, then my honor demands that I comply." Benedict I. (GM): "The provenance of our recent acquisiton?" "Wait- are you here about that thing?" "The bracer?" Saelhen du Fishercrown: "Ah, yes." Saelhen ducks her head a bit sheepishly. "I can come back." "Perhaps I have misunderstood what time I was meant to arrive." Benedict I. (GM): "No, no, come in! Come in, I'm sure we can address your concerns." "What time you were- you mentioned an appointment, who told you there was an appointment?" "Never mind, no, it's- please, come in." Saelhen du Fishercrown: "I spoke with a Madam Two-Brains? But information may have been lost in the shuffle -- I gather it was a busy day." Saelhen sits. Benedict I. (GM): "...The student receptionist? Why would- no, never mind. What's this about the bracer?" Saelhen du Fishercrown: Whoops. "I have neglected to introduce myself, and for that I apologize. I am the Lady Noeru de la Surplus, sixth of her name." Saelhen lowers her head. "Your... bracer is an item of some significance to my family." Benedict I. (GM): Her eyes light up. "Is that so?" "What significance, would you say?"

After a little more bullshitting and some great Deception rolls, she has the dean completely sold on her story. It helps that she quite badly wanted to believe it- since if it were true, her rival wouldn't have legitimate claim to it. Dean Velocity offers to help recover the item, if Lady Noeru would agree to let her study it briefly.

Meanwhile, below the School of Arcane Arts, Looseleaf is shown a special hands-free containment device for the magical item.

Benedict I. (GM): Inside the glass case hovers what looks like a stone bracer. It's inset with thirteen large sapphires, at seemingly random locations, little rhyme or reason. There's one region of the bracer that doesn't have sapphires- a flat, circular raised bit with a symbol engraved on it. It's not one you're familiar with, but matches the pattern of the emblems of the gods. Looseleaf: Is it a divine symbol? Yeeeep. Benedict I. (GM): A circle, with horizontal lines across it, growing denser towards the wearer.

Looseleaf makes some investigation and history checks to find out more about it. She observes that the sapphires are connected to one another, and that its craftsmanship doesn't match anything she's ever seen or read about. She's still taking a look at it when Saelhen and Dean Velocity show up.

Dean Velocity badgers Dean Mogher into hearing Saelhen out, and she continues to knock her deception checks out of the park. He doesn't want to give it up without a fight, but he believes her intentions are true. He proposes a compromise: Looseleaf will represent both schools (as she's taking courses in both and is undecided on a major) and accompany Saelhen on her supposed succession rite, asking lots of questions and writing a report that they might be able to publish.

This compromise is more or less amenable to all, and Saelhen is allowed to touch the bracer.

It immediately jumps onto her arm and sticks there, and projects a holographic wayfinding arrow out of one of the sapphires. The bracer begins pulling her arm in that direction. She can't get it off- and can't just run. She's forced to keep up the charade, and let Looseleaf try some magic on it.

Looseleaf is a homebrew class Zero found called the Animist, a caster themed around the idea that all things have "spirits". One of the things it can do is called Soul Glean, which basically lets you... read the mind of an inanimate object.

Lesser Soul Glean: You may peer into the things the soul of an object has witnessed. Make an int (arcana) check to determine the amount of information gleaned from the object. The more recent or emotionally volatile the event, the easier it is to glean information from, while the more distance the harder it is. Senses of emotions, vague intentions, and the sight of auras of can generally be gleaned from this reading.

And what she gets from that is...

Looseleaf:“It’s lost,” Looseleaf says. “It has a purpose and has been unable to fulfill that purpose for a very long time. It’s not epistemologically correct to assign emotions to items through divinations, I think, but if this thing had an emotion I imagine it would be sad.” ”Most importantly, it does not feel fulfilled. It is not behaving the way that objects reunited with their lost owners would be have.” “Given this, I hope you will forgive me for my indiscretion in this next act.” Looseleaf... shifts her arm, the arm touching the bracer, sliding off it and onto the elvish lady’s arm, and Lesser Soul Reads her.

Now Soul Read is for living things, and only sort of gets you mood and general intentions- for now. Saelhen, though, won't be having any of that- she passes her dex save to pull away before Looseleaf can read her. (This, of course, only makes Looseleaf more suspicious.)

Tumblr has new post restrictions that force me to keep these posts short, so here's:

[Part B]

[hoseokslefteyebrow]

The Serpent's Shadow || J.HS || 3

Pairing : Jung Hoseok X Reader

Genre :  Angst, prob fluff at some point

Summary : But how could the Serpent ever know? What's happening behind his back? In his own Shadow? Without looking back?

-

This story is IN the Harry Potter time line!

( Deathly Hallows Part one & two)

Wordcount: 1.1k

The Serpent's Shadow Masterlist | Next

You cringed as the professor kept talking on and on about the three unforgivable curses.

You weren't exactly a fan of it after all. Your mother had been murdered in the first wizarding war, she had been tortured by the Cruciatus curse, before the Imperio was used on her to make it look like she had killed herself. 

You had been forcefully sat down with the Ministry of Magic to watch the security tape. The death eater (Bellatrix Lestrange) had been way too happy that there was a security camera near.

You tried not to loose hold on your magic while watching a poor animal ( a poor Doxy), was whimpering under the Cruciatus curse.

" STOP IT!" A voice, Taehee's, pierced the air as she yelled at the professor to stop.

The professor, Amycus Carrow, stopped with what she was doing, whipping her head in your best friend's direction.

Taehee swallowed, but the fire in her eyes did not die down in the slightest.

" Did you just speak against me?" Professor Carrow asks lowly, narrowing her eyes at her.

Your table mate's only response is gulping.

" How dare you-"

" I told her to." You speak up timidly, not looking into her eyes.

Professor Carrow looks at you with a small smirk, as if she was a snake looking at her prey.

" That explains it. Pathetic Hufflepuff. Let me geuss, you do not want to get punished again, so instead you ask your stupid brave Gryffindor friend for help? Well, your house has always been known as the weakest. " She laughs fakely.

You don't say anything, looking down at your lap.

Even tough you're afraid of the curses, you're not exactly afraid of her. You just don't want to give her more reason to punish you.

You've been one of her favorite students to pick on. Not because you tell your friends to speak up against her, but because you watch over first years. You remember your own first year as one of the best years, and you truly pitty them that they have to spend their first year like this. You often take their beatings when they 'do something out of turn'.

" Well, well, what kind of punishment shall we give you? How about we try one of the curses on you? To see what it-" She's cut off as the door opens.

Hoseok steps in, taking you (and undoubtedly your friends too) by suprise.

Taehee grips your hand.

After that night when he escorted you from the forest, he's been avoiding you. You haven't spoken to him since then. However, you're grateful that he's here now. You know that he probably won't, but you hope he'll stop her.

" I'm sorry to interrupt your lesson professor Carrow, but I heard you talking about teaching miss L/N a lesson, I would love to do that myself." Hoseok says, and you swallow with wide eyes.

You're not sure if he means it or not, the steel look not leaving his eyes as he makes eye contact with your scared ones.

To everyone's horror, professor Carrow starts giggling. 

" Of course not Hoseok. Take her away. I personally tough to-"

" I'm not interested in what you would do. I'm pretty sure I have more creative ways." Hoseok cuts Carrow off, effectively shutting her up.

Tough she does seem upset about not being able to share her opinion. Or that she at least can't talk to him in general.

Hoseok switches his gaze to you again and you look at him with big Bambi eyes. 

" Well what are you waiting for L/N?! Away with you!" Carrow turns back to you as she screeches the words.

You let go of Taehee's hand and get up with the intention to follow him.

" Take your stuff with you. You will most likely not be able to return to class." Hoseok speaks, and you do what's told.

While you're packing your stuff, Taehee grabs your wrist.

" Please be careful." She tells you.

You nod.

Hoseok looks you down while you're walking trough the door opening, before nodding at Carrow ( who smiles as if her crush has noticed her) and telling you to follow him.

Moments later you're down in the dungeons, and you're following him into a hallway you've never been before.

He opens a door, and motions you to go in.

You do so.

Even tough you hate it, you still want to at least believe that he's still your Hoseok.

You study the room in confusion. It's not a classroom. It seems more like a bedroom?

There's a big bed in one corner, and a closet in the other, a bureau placed beside it. There's also minimal belongings scattered around, even the pajamas are fold on the bed. Your eyes land on the window, which showcases the Black Lake.

You realize that this is not some unknown classroom or study, this is his own room, most probably.

" Are you okay?" You jump when you hear his voice and turn around.

" You're- you're not going to hurt me?" You ask him carefully.

He shakes his head.

" No, I could never. I needer to make it believable for her." He told you while gnawing on his lower lip, a sign he's nervous.

You all but drop your bag, sprinting to him and developing him in a big hug.

He's suprised to say the least, but hugs you back after a moment. Feeling content with the feeling of being in your arms and the smell of your conditioner tickles his nose pleasantly.

After a moment ( one too soon in his mind) you releasr him and take a step back before looking deep into his eyes.

He feels you looking into his soul, your gaze holding emotion while you read his, he knows that all the facades he built up to hide behind crumbles down as you look at him so tenderly.

" What happened? Tell me everything."

[ A/N: So I used to be writing this story 'Wanted' in Wattpad and it was only available in dutch. I've decided to translate it to english, and it's now only available in Quotev. ( Because I had to switch all my writing to Quotev, the new Wattpad update deleted and/or moved some of my drafts.) In case u need the

Summary: “Let me geuss, your parents are dead and you're family with one of my mates so that's why you're staying with us for a while?”

“Um, no. Sorry. Just running for the authorities and your window was open.”

It's a J.JK X Reader so if u have nothing to do please check it out. :)]

[ridiculousravenclaw]

The Life of Elara Ware : Chapter 2

Elara sat on her butterfly patterned bedsheets, a heavy leather bound book in her lap. She was studying alchemy this year and wanted to get a basic understanding of it before school started. She was lost in concentration when her bubble of thought was burst by light tapping at her window. She looked up to see a shabby brown owl rapping its beak against the glass. She smiled. "Hi Errol". Elara crossed her room and opened the window. The old bird half hopped, half collapsed inside. Looking out her window Elara saw it was now starting to get dark. The sun retreated below the horizon casting shadows of deep orange and red across the sky. It was a beautiful summer's evening, a light breeze provided respite from the unforgiving heat of the day. Errol lazily nipped at her hand letting out an exasperatedly quiet hoot. "Sorry boy, here" She detached the tightly rolled parchment from his leg then opened the empty bird cage perched on top of her drawers, gesturing for him to go inside. Errol happily obliged helping himself to water. The Wares family owl Alizeh had to stay in Elaras room as her mother couldn't stand her hooting. But she was currently out hunting and Errol looked thankful for the hospitality.

Elara undid the scroll expecting to be greeted with another message from George, so she was surprised to find it wasn't his handwriting at all. 'Hello Elara. I know George has been in contact with you but I dont know exactly how much he's said or not said so I thought it best to write you myself. You are of course still welcome to come and stay tomorrow. Though I must warn you it'll be a bit of a tight squeeze. My eldest sons Bill and Charlie are home and are in the twins room meaning Fred and George are currently in with Ron and Harry. Oh yes, Harry's staying with us as well I hope you dont mind. You'll be in Ginnys room, but again, tight squeeze. We have Hermione staying in there too. I hope this is all okay with you. I've been told to expect you by flu powder at about 11. Our house is called The Burrow, I don't know if George had said. Anyway it's all still a go is what I'm trying to say and we'll take you to Kings Cross as planned. Look forward to seeing you Molly Weasley'

Elara smiled. The note really was unnecessary but she couldn't blame Mrs Weasleys lack of trust in George giving her all the correct details. She quickly scribbled a reply on the back of the note. 'Thanks again Mrs Weasley this is really kind of you. 11 o'clock. Flu powder. I'll see you then'

It took some convincing and several treats but Elara finally managed to get Errol out of Alizehs cage and attach the note to his leg. She wasn't sure if Errol was quick enough to get the note to Mrs Weasley before tomorrow morning but it was worth a try. She sent him on his way then made her way downstairs to the living room. There she found her mother silently working her way through stacks of documents she had laid out on the sofa. Her long brown hair was wound into a messy bun on top of her head and her black rimmed glasses were perched on the end of her narrow, slender nose. She was wearing grey jogging bottoms and a light blue t shirt that hung off one shoulder. She was sat cross legged, brows furrowed in concentration. She hadn't noticed Elara walk in.

"Watcha doin?" Elara said. Her mother sent several pages scattered across the wooden floor as she jumped in surprise.

"Jeez sweet pea don't sneak up on me like that!"

Elara laughed and stepped forward to help as her mum started chasing papers around the room. "sorry. I wasn't aiming to scare you"

"yeah? then why are you laughing at me?" Her mother retorted as she tried to smack Elara on the backside with a recovered sheet. She tried to put on a disgruntled face but she couldn't hide her smile as her daughter dodged her attacks.

"hey! I'm helping!" Elara replied, smiling goofily back as she hopped out of her mothers reach.

"causing mayhem more like"

Elara folded her arms defiantly, a devious grin on her lips

"fine. I wont help then"

Elara put up her hands in mock surrender and started walking towards the door.

"hey! not so fast. This is your doing so you can come tidy you cheeky bugger"

Elara complied with an exaggerated curtsy as her mother started to reorganize the pages.

"honestly. all I came down for was to tell you I'm going to the Weasleys at 11. now you've got me clearing up like your personal slave" Elara put on her best dramatic sigh which made her mother chuckle.

"think how I feel. it took me ages to put all this in order now I've got to do it again"

"hmm, well if you will insist on throwing things around the house"

"oi!" her mother retorted but once again she couldn't stifle her smile.

"11 did you say?" She added after a moment.

"yup"

"how were you going to get there?"

"flu powder" then at the look of confusion on her mothers face she continued "that's the one where you travel through the fireplace. wosh" Elara flailled of her arms to illustrate.

"oh right. the one that scares me to death you mean?"

"that's the one"

"great!" Her mother gave her a double thumbs up but her eyes showed her disapproval. Elara rolled her eyes.

"mum how many times? it's safe. I've been using flu powder since I was 7. Everyone does"

Her mother sighed, nodding her head reluctantly "I know, I know"

They picked up the last few pages in lazy quiet before Elara went to kitchen to make them both a cup of tea. When she returned she found her mother staring into the currently empty fireplace like she was waiting for something. Elara silently stood by her side handing her a floral patterned mug. She looked at her mothers face obviously deep in thought. She looked almost upset. "mum?"

It was several moments before she answered.

"you know it doesn't matter how impressive and mystical and amazing all this is. Theres still a massive part of me that wished you took after me, not your dad."

Elara couldn't deny she felt offended, and it must've shown on her face

"no no that's not what I meant. Oh hunny your magics incredible and you make me proud every day. Please know that. It's just. I dont know. I can't lie. I'd be a lot less stressed if you just grew up to be a hairdresser or something. Something ordinary. Something risk free" Elara felt confused at the direction the conversation had taken. Quick to defend the life she loved so much she answered

"Well wheres the fun in that? mum I'm perfectly safe in the wizarding world. you must know that. it may still be weird to you but its who I am and its normal for us."

Her mother looked at her for a moment. Then smiled a strange, sad sort of smile. She started to say something, then stopped herself sipping on her tea instead. Elara could see a million thoughts spiraling behind her mothers eyes. Then, finally "yeah. yeah of course you are." Then without a word she turned and left.

As she stood alone in front of the mantelpiece, Elara had the feeling like she was missing something. Then a most unwelcome thought; that there was something her mother wasn't telling her. Her mother had always been a worrier. Fretted over her wellbeing day and night. It never bothered her. In fact Elara Ware had grown so used to her mothers fussing she almost didn't notice it anymore. But now that she stopped to think, since returning from school that summer it'd seemed to get a lot more frequent. Obsessively checking in on Elara through the day. Restricting when she could leave the house, not letting her go alone. At first Elara thought this was just her fear of her baby growing up. Now that she'd sat her exams, chosen a career path, got a boyfriend. But now she wasn't sure. Whatever it was, her mother was definitely upset by it.

The next morning Elara woke up later than she wanted to. She ran downstairs and inhaled some cereal so fast she was sure she must have set a new world record. Then back upstairs for a hurried shower, which unsurprisingly resulted in shampoo in her eyes. Swearing repeatedly and dripping water onto the tiles as she went. Elara stumbled blindly across her en suit reaching for a towel. cursing herself for not putting one out first. Quickly drying herself off she threw open her wardrobe, looking at her limited selection of clothes. most of it was packed in her trunk. She glanced out the window. It was raining and with the rain had brought cooler weather. She picked out her favourite pair of jeans and a loose white shirt with lace criss-crossed across the back.

It was only after she had triple checked her trunk, glancing at the clock and seeing she still had 30 minutes to spare, that Elara finally allowed herself to relax a bit. Mentally scolding herself for waking up late and turning her morning into a mad rush. She was gazing at her reflection in the mirror and without realizing found herself fussing with her hair. She couldn't explain why. Elara had never really cared what others though of how she looked before. Yet there she sat tucking her brown hair behind her ear, the pulling it forward, then tucking it back again. Perhaps it was the nerves of seeing her boyfriend again after weeks apart. After all they hadn't been dating that long when school ended for the holidays. Or perhaps it was the stress of meeting his whole family. But then again she already knew half of them. She may never have spent much time with Ron, Percy or Ginny but they were already acquainted. Then of course theres Fred. the twins came as a pack. you rarely get one without the other and she'd been going to school with them for 5 years.

She tried to shake the nerves, focussing instead on the thing she'd always liked about herself. She gazed into her eyes which were the only ones like them she'd ever known. Her right eye was a cool blue, like a river. Her left eye a pale light green flecked with yellow. The muggle doctors said it was a genetic condition with a weird name she could never remember. it didn't matter. Elara loved her eyes. they made her different. Different was good. She looked at the clock again. 20 minutes. She picked up her trunk which she'd played at the foot of her bed and began to haul it down the stairs.

"you'll write wont you"

"nah I won't bother I'll just leave you in suspense the whole year"

"Elara Ware!"

"I'm joking! I'm joking! C'mon mum I'm in my 6th year now. I'm a big girl. I'll be fine. and I'll be back before you know it."

Her mother sighed and pulled Elara into a bone crushing hug. "I know. I just worry" Elara chuckled "yeah funnily enough I've noticed"

Her mum ignored this "I love you" she mumbled into Elaras hair. "I love you too" Just then Elara noticed the time on the clock "ooh mum I've got to go. its time" Elara wriggled out of her mums grip and stepped into the fire place where her trunk was waiting. "mum the powder"

"oh yeah right"

Her mother grabbed a small clay pot from ontop of the book case. It was peculiar in shape, unpainted and unvarnished. Elara had very vague memories of making it at muggle school when she was about 7 years old. Inside was the floo powder. Elara grabbed a handful and offered one last smile to her mum. "Bye mum"

"Bye darling"

Elara dropped the floo powder onto her feet and shouted "The Burrow" With that she started to spin. Faster in faster as her living room dissolved into a blur of colour. But just before she lost sight of her mother completely she saw it again. The same sad look in her mothers eyes. She was trying to hide it but still it was unmistakably there. Why? what was Elara not understanding? Before she could even fathom the answer the spinning stopped. She was no longer in her living room. She stepped out onto a well worn rug to a wall of welcoming red headed smiles. and there standing the closest the one she was most excited to see. beaming the brightest of all "miss me?" Said George

[ganeshtps50]

Keto diet

Would You Like to Know Exactly What to Eat to Lose Fat and Get Healthy Without Giving Up Your Favorite Foods or Starving Yourself?

If you're serious about achieving permanent fat loss and a complete health transformation while eating your favorite foods every meal…

I invite you to read this page.

Dear friend,

Is it true? Has modern science finally discovered a diet that can strip off body fat like clockwork, while still allowing you to eat tasty meals like ribeye steak with roasted garlic and butter?

Hi, my name is Rachel Roberts. I'm not a professional ad writer, but what I have to share with you is so extraordinary and powerful that I decided to write this myself. So bear with me a little.

Here’s The Deal:

In my opinion, the nutrition industry is hopelessly broken. Instead of helping people improve their health and overall physical appearance, the world is filled with myths, scams, and flat-out lies.

I mean, it’s obvious the current dietary guidelines don’t work. Just look at the stats. 71.6% of American adults aged 20 and above are overweight, of which more than half are obese![1]

Now, if you’re one of the millions of people who follow all the nutrition rules outlined by health and fitness “gurus” but still carry excess fat, it is not your fault!

The Truth Is:

No matter how genetically “doomed” you may think you are, and no matter how frustrated you may feel after trying and discarding many diets, you absolutely can have the lean and alluring body of your dreams.

You see, getting into fantastic shape isn't nearly as cruel as nutrition and fitness “gurus” want you to believe. In fact, if you avoid the four most common and catastrophic diet mistakes, shaping your dream figure is actually a simple process.

Do You Make These Four Common Diet Mistakes That Sabotage Your Health and Stall Fat Loss?

Mistake #1

Not being in a calorie deficit

According to some “experts,” losing weight and keeping it off is all about controlling the types of food you eat.

They say particular foods are "fattening" because they pause fat burning and cause a hormonal environment that leads to weight gain... while other foods "balance" the system and stimulate fat loss.

While that’s partially true, it doesn't give you the full picture. The reason is that if you want to lower the number on your scale, the most important thing you must do is enter a caloric deficit.

It’s simple. If you consume more calories than you burn, you’ll gain weight. And if you consume fewer calories than you burn, you’ll lose weight. That’s a scientific fact.[2]

Looking for proof? Well, dozens of studies show the vitality of calorie balance.[3-19] One of these is a case study by Mark Haub, a professor of human nutrition at Kansas State University.[20]

He carried excess pounds and, knowing the importance of calorie balance, decided to do an experiment. For two months, he only ate foods like Twinkies, Oreos, Dorito, and protein shakes while maintaining a daily energy deficit of 800 calories.

The result? In just two months, he lost 27 pounds and reduced his body fat from 33.4% to 24.9%.

Now, I don't recommend you follow such a diet, but it illustrates my point. If you want to lose fat, you must be in a calorie deficit.

Mistake #2

Severe calorie restriction that gives you the metabolism of a 90-year-old lady

If an energy deficit of 250 calories a day will get you lean, a 1,000-calorie deficit will give you the results four times as fast, right?

Wrong! Many people make this mistake, and I used to do it too before I knew any better.

The truth is, severe calorie deficits screw up your physiology. That's why almost all low-calorie dieters regain the lost pounds when they stop the program... plus, most often gain some more on top of that.

You see, your body doesn't know you're trying to get ripped for the beach. Instead, because you're starving yourself, it thinks you're stranded with no food.

As a result, your body’s metabolism will plummet to prevent you from losing weight. This means that as soon as you come off your diet, your body will store as much food as possible as fat to prepare itself for the next starvation.

That’s why it’s essential to eat according to a calorie target fine-tuned for your body, your situation, and your goals.

Mistake #3

Thinking all calories are created equal

Thus far, we've looked at calories. And while calories are a crucial piece of the fat loss puzzle, they're in no way the only thing that matters. You see, when most people say they want to lose weight, they actually strive to improve their health and look better.

The thing is, if you want to accomplish such feats, you shouldn’t strive for weight loss. Instead, set your sights on fat loss. That's because losing weight doesn't nece inssarily improve health and appearance, but losing fat does.

Now, when it comes to fat loss, calories remain a crucial element. But what is just as crucial is your macro intake. In other words, your consumption of protein, carbs, and fat is vital. How you set up your macros has a profound effect on how your body will respond to the meals you eat.

For example, if you consume too many carbs, it’ll be near impossible to lose fat even if you maintain a calorie deficit. That’s because carbs spike insulin, a horm upone that blunts fat loss in two main ways.

One of these is that elevated insulin levels block the release of fat from your fat cells.[21-23] And if your cells can't release fat, your body can never burn off the excess.

Second, elevated insulin levels cause the storage of energy found in your bloodstream to morph into body fat cells.[23-25] This means the energy won’t get burned off by tissues like muscle but instead snakes its way around to places like your hips and abs.

That’s why researchers call insulin the "fat storage hormone," and that’s why carb-rich diets make it nearly impossible to lose fat.

Insulin is but one example. Optimizing your macros is crucial for many more reasons, so in a minute I’ll show you how to set up your macros to triple fat loss.

The best part? The method I’ll show you in a minute from now is effortless to follow and never leaves you hungry. In fact, this eating style is so satiating and easy to follow that you would probably forget you were on a diet if you weren’t losing fat so fast.

Mistake #4

Following an unrealistic, overly restrictive diet

Willpower works like a battery – you only have so much of it until it runs out. That’s why very restrictive diets deplete your willpower, increase your cravings, and lead to binging – the exact opposite of what you want when trying to build your dream body.[26-27]

I've seen it countless times before... a guy or gal who is dedicated to losing weight and getting healthy. To kick things off, they start a diet that only allows food like tilapia, asparagus, and chicken. After all, that’s what the fitness magazines recommend.

While the results are great in the beginning and the dieter loyally brings Tupperware boxes packed with "healthy" meals wherever they go, their willpower eventually runs out and that diet gets tossed out the window.

Just keep in mind that dieting itself is already hard. Don't make it even harder for yourself by enforcing all kinds of unnecessary restrictions. Otherwise, you’ll likely take on a “screw it” mentally after a few weeks or even days, wake up in a sea of Twinkie wrappers and be back to square one.

The Solution to These Diet Blunders:

A Keto Meal Plan Customized to Your Body, Situation, Goals, and Taste Buds

If you want to take all the guesswork out of your diet and follow a guaranteed-to-work plan, then you'll love my brand-new custom keto meal plan service.

For the last few years, I’ve united leading nutritionists, personal trainers, and chefs to develop custom keto meal plans that are effective, convenient, cost-effective, and (most importantly) enjoyable.

And when I say "custom" meal plan, I mean it. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, “here are some recipes pulled together from random blogs” meal plans many nutrition “gurus” sell for way too much money.

Instead, we tailor your entire meal plan to your own unique situation, needs, goals, and dietary preferences to ensure you experience optimal progress and follow a diet you enjoy.

In other words, your days of suffering on ineffective and overly-restrictive diets are finally over. It's time to start working based on a method that's best for you.

What Truly Sets These Meal Plans Apart is that They’re Based on the Keto Diet

Unless you were lost in the Himalayas for the last few years, I bet you've heard of the keto diet. In fact, you probably have a friend or family member who has transformed their body like magic with this diet.

But in case you didn’t know or just forgot, here’s a quick recap. A keto diet is an eating style where you consume almost no carbs, moderate amounts of protein, and high amounts of dietary fat. So, you’ll be eating tasty high-fat meals like ribeye steak with roasted garlic and butter.

“Why would you do that?” you may wonder. Well, a very low carb intake puts you into a state called “ketosis.” You see, under regular circumstances, your body relies for the most part on glucose (the stored form of carb).

When you minimize your carb intake, however, there's not enough glucose available for your body to fuel all its functions. And because some tissues like your brain cannot use fat for fuel, your body needs an alternative energy source to stay alive.

That’s where ketones come in. Ketones are chemicals produced in your liver when glucose is scarce. Various tissues like your brain can use these ketones for fuel when glucose is absent.[28] That's an excellent outcome because, otherwise, you would die.

Now, when your body uses primarily ketones and fatty acids for fuel, you're in a state called “ketosis.” That’s invaluable because...

Ketosis Gives You an “Unfair” Advantage on Your Fat Loss Goals

Want proof? Here’s what a meta-analysis of thirteen randomized controlled trials published in the British Journal of Nutrition concluded:[29]

“Individuals assigned to a VLCKD [very low carbohydrate ketogenic diet] achieve a greater weight loss than those assigned to an LFD [low-fat diet] in the long term; hence, a VLCKD may be an alternative tool against obesity.”

In fact, two randomized controlled trials found the keto diet leads to more belly fat loss and produces up to three times as much weight loss as a high-carb, low-fat diet![30-31]

That’s right. Those who followed a keto diet lost more fat while eating tasty foods like bacon, scrambled eggs with hot sauce, BBQ wings, and pork rinds nachos. But why is a keto diet superior for fat loss?

img

Source: Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Jan;87(1):44-55.]

There Are Six Reasons Why the Keto Diet Is the Holy Grail for Fat Loss

Reason #1

Significantly increases fat burning

As mentioned earlier, insulin is the enemy of fat loss. Elevated levels of this hormone blunt fat burning, all while shuttling energy in your bloodstream into your fat cells.

On a keto diet, however, insulin levels drop, which not only benefits your health but also significantly boosts fat burning.[32-33]

graph

Reason #2

It’s simple and easy to follow

The keto diet is very simple to follow, and you’ll enjoy yourself as you diet. After all, what’s not to love about losing fat while being able to eat tasty, high-fat foods like bacon, eggs, cheese, and steak?

Reason #3

Hunger cravings will fade

I'll tell you a secret. You'll never lose fat and keep it off on any diet that leaves you hungry. Hunger is an irresistible force. Sooner or later, hunger always defeats willpower.

That’s why nearly all diets fail. Eventually, you can’t take the cravings anymore, and you’ll regain all that lost weight by binging. On top of that, you’ll likely gain some extra weight to boot.

The keto diet, however, brings hunger to a dead-end stop. When you go keto, you won’t feel hungry. That's why this eating style is superior for losing fat and keeping it off.

graph

In others words, you’ll not only look fantastic in the “after” photo but also in the “after the after” photo.

Reason #4

You don’t have to exercise to reap the benefits

You do not have to work out to lose fat on the keto diet. However, since following a keto diet will boost your energy levels drastically after around one week, you will probably become more active, which may motivate you to exercise. That said, you lose fat quickly, whether you’re active or not.

graph

Reason #5

It’s healthy and safe

The keto diet is not just a fat loss diet; it's also a health diet. In fact, it's probably much safer than the way you eat now. Want proof?

Well, various studies show the keto diet can reduce your heart disease risk by elevating levels of the "good" HDL cholesterol, decreasing blood triglycerides levels, and raising blood pressure.[34-37]

And research also shows the keto diet can boost mental health; reduce depression; act therapeutically against various neurological conditions; prevent, manage, and even reverse type 2 diabetes; and maybe even prevent and fight some types of cancer.[38-43]

Reason #6

You’ll lose weight like clockwork

Right after you begin your customized keto meal plan, you'll start to lose fat automatically. You don't even have to think about nutrition all the time. In fact, since you'll never be hungry while following this diet, you would probably forget you were on a diet if you weren't losing fat so fast.

So, how much fat do you want to shed? And how eagerly do you want to enhance your health?

With your custom keto meal plan, you’ll finally have control over your health and figure. Here’s what you’ll get if you start today:

An eight-week meal plan based on the experience and expertise of industry leaders.

That includes nutritionists, personal trainers, and chefs to ensure you make optimal progress toward your dream figure.

A diet optimized to your own ideal calorie and macro intake.

If you mess up your calorie and macro intake, you might as well not even start a diet. That's why we base your meal plan on science-based methods to figure out the ideal calorie and macro intake for your situation and goals.

Delicious meals based on your food preferences.

We’ve done extensive research and testing and united with top-leading keto chefs to provide you with mouth-watering recipes. You’ll get meals customized to your food preferences to ensure you’ll look forward to each meal. This not only makes your diet enjoyable, but also helps you make a long-lasting change.

Instructions on how to further customize your meals.

For each meal, we’ll provide you with options to

further customize your diet to your preferences. For instance, if you don’t feel like eating bacon, you may have the choice to replace it with beef.

A meal plan with lots of food variety.

Your meal plan will contain a wide range of different foods.

This ensures you’ll get a broad spectrum of nutrients, while also making sure dieting stays enjoyable.

Crystal clear, step-by-step recipe instructions.

Even if you have no cooking experience, preparing your meals will be a breeze. All you have to do is follow your "paint-by-the-numbers" instructions and reap the rewards that come with it.

A downloadable grocery list.

Stop wasting countless hours in the supermarket. You’ll get a downloadable shopping list for each week that details every needed ingredient you’ll need in the upcoming seven days.

And much more…

That was just a quick overview of what you’ll get. As you can see, our custom diet plans leave no stone unturned. We've done everything we can to design a convenient, effective, and enjoyable meal plan to help you reach your health and body shape goals.

They Did It With

Keto

dietdietdiet

You’ll Get Your Custom Keto Meal Plan for Less Than 5% of What You Would Normally Pay

Having a personalized nutrition plan created just for you can get REALLY expensive REALLY fast.

If you go to a nutritionist, you'll pay around $100 for your initial meeting and an average of $400 per month for modifications and check-ins. So, for an 8-week nutrition plan, expect to pay around $900.

And after spending all that money, it's very likely you'll end up with the same outcome as the rest of their clients: devastated with your results and clueless about what to do next.

I know how it feels because I've been there myself... forking over thousands of dollars for no results. And I know how shattering it is to spend all that time and money and not even end up close to your ultimate goal.

I don’t want you to suffer from such an experience, and that’s why I'm offering this service. My goal is to help people transform their health and figure without going through the unnecessary struggles that often come with it.

That’s why I offer this service not for $900. In fact, the price is not even 5% of that because if you act today, you’ll get instant access for just $37.

I know, this is much less than what you would expect from such a service. But I want to make my custom meal plans available for everyone. And I want to help one million men and women around the world take charge of their health and figure. That’s why I don’t want price to be an issue.

guarantee-logo

But that’s not all. Besides this low price, I also back you with a robust and straightforward 100% satisfaction guarantee that works like this:

Try Your Custom Meal Plan Risk-Free and Judge for Yourself. If You’re Not Satisfied, You’ll Get All Your Money Back

It’s simple: if, for any reason you're not satisfied, shoot me a message and ask for a refund. Just tell me you're not happy and you'll get your money back.

And by satisfied, I mean you're 100% happy with your custom meal plan. You have no regrets, and you're certain, without a shadow of a doubt, that you've made the right decision.

So go ahead and "test drive" your custom meal plan without any financial risk. Order your custom meal plan, try it for 60 days, and see the results. In the unlikely scenario you're unhappy with the service, email us your receipt and we'll return your payment without question.

YES, I WANT AN 8-WEEK CUSTOM KETO MEAL PLAN!

But listen. This isn’t for everyone...

This Service Is NOT for You if:

We’ve been around long enough that we’ve noticed there are three types of people we can't help:

1img

You don’t take action, but instead want to spend all your spare time trying to figure out the optimal diet.

2img

You think you already know what you need to do to build your dream body and you’re unwilling to follow an expert’s instructions.

3img

You're not interested in using science-based dieting strategies but would rather mimic what the average Joe is doing.

That being said, if you're looking for a science-based, "Done For You" plan where you’ll lose fat and improve your health while eating delicious foods every meal...

Here’s What I Want You to Do Next

Are you serious about achieving permanent fat loss and sparking a health transformation? Great! Then here’s how the process works:

Step #1

Do This Now

Start by clicking here! You’ll see a few questions to answer about your current situation, food preferences, and goals. Nothing crazy. We just need some basic info to understand your circumstances better. Answer these questions as accurately (and honestly) as possible, and make sure your email address is correct so you can receive your meal plan.

Step #2

Here’s What Will Happen Next

Once you’ve completed the survey, we’ll create your custom meal plan for you. Just enter your payment details to get instant access to your custom-made keto meal plan.

Step #3

Are You Ready?

If so, today is the day you rise to the challenge and transform your body and health because ultimately, this service is for people who recognize a great opportunity when they see one and act fast.

YES, I WANT AN 8-WEEK CUSTOM KETO MEAL PLAN!

The Way I See It, You have Three Options From Here

Option #1

Ignore everything you've just read and change nothing. If you decide to take this path, remember the old saying, "if you do what you always did, you'll get what you always got."

Option #2

Try to lose fat and improve your health through "trial and error." Fly solo with the attitude "throw it on the wall and see what sticks." You may reach your goal at some point with this approach, but not without countless frustrations and setbacks that leave you on the verge of giving up.

Or, the smartest option…

Option #3

Skip all the frustration and take charge of your figure by investing in your custom meal plan. Eat based on a scientifically-proven method that's crafted to help any person, at any age, and in any situation enjoy long- lasting fat loss results.

To get your custom keto meal plan, click the button below. Go through the questionnaire. Enter your payment details. Just like that. You'll get instant access to your custom meal plan. You’ll be able to start your new diet within minutes of ordering!

I've never been more excited and proud about one of my programs than as I am now. And I can't wait for you to enjoy the life-changing results you'll get by investing in yourself today.

YES, I WANT AN 8-WEEK CUSTOM KETO MEAL PLAN!

Here’s to your future transformation!

Rachel Roberts

Rachel Roberts

P.S. Imagine what you may look like just weeks from now.

Week by week, you’ll stand in front of the mirror with a tape measure in your hands and a smile on your face that won’t disappear. Your stomach, arms, and hips will be so leaned down you’ll think it’s not “your” body. You’ll have to pinch yourself to prove it’s really “all you.”

Is that something that would transform your life? If so, I urge you to take your first step to a leaner, healthier you while this offer is still on your mind.

P.P.S. You simply cannot lose here. You're either delighted with the meal plans or get your money back. That's right. Try out this invaluable service risk-free. Go for it! You won't be disappointed!

[sunflowerforhaechan-recs]

I never learn my lesson. I always tell myself that I shouldn't be reading a @slightlymore fic right before going to bed, but I keep doing just that hsjajsaklf Now I'm too excited and too sad to sleep 😭💘

I’d rather not exist if existence is not mine to rule.

Wow. Much to think about.

“Stay out of trouble, Haechan. I don’t want to lose you.”

You know Mark is on the hunt right now, right? To catch you after you escaped that prison?

Did Haechan know how Mark’s face paled and his hands started to shake at the thought of what would happen afterwards? How Jeno had to wrap Mark’s body with his arms while he was wailing about how Haechan would soon die because of his actions? His best friend gone? How he was forced to hunt him down himself?

I love the irony of how Mark is the one that had to hunt Haechan and imprison him.. because hunting someone you love.. ufff it's really sad

Your eyes widened. "Kim Doyoung is interested in Selene?" Half of the study room turned their heads towards you both at the volume of your voice...

"Or, what if he hates her and manipulates you into thinking he likes her but he just wants to gather info on her through you which he can later use to hurt her,” you hit your palm with one fist. 

These sound like something I would do lolllll

“I don’t know,” a sudden whisper made Haechan jolt. You were sitting on the benches near the Campus entrance and looking at the bickering couple while absentmindedly munching on a carrot. “They look like they want to kill each other but also kiss each other. It’s very confusing.” 

PLEASE I LOVE THE MC!! She's so cute!!

Haechan’s lips stretched in a small smile. “Why are you always around me? Do you perhaps need help with that?” he didn't reply and indicated your mouth instead.

You tapped his palm with an angry pout. Focus on the question! it meant.

Their bickering is so cute 🥰 Exactly my type tbh haha Sam... 👀👀👀👀

“Also, I think you and Doyoung need some real advice from a girl because by the looks of it you have no idea what you’re doing.”

The mc's interest in others business.. she reminds me of myself a lot hsjsjssk 🙈

“Now I feel like it’s a moral obligation to tease you about it. Our little Slytherin never kissed someone before?”

I LOVE HOW PLAYFUL THEIR INTERACTIONS ARE !!!

Haechan hummed. “Maybe it has to be a little longer.” 

I am ALWAYS so awestruck with the kisses you write, Sam. They're all so varied and they're all so flustering!!

“Now you can forget about it and have your real actual kiss later, okay?” he patted your shoulder. 

You can't forget a kiss like that!!!!

“Kim Doyoung the Slytherin Prefect came to you in Hell?”

“Selene the Ravenclaw Prefect?” Jeno widened his eyes. 

This part is so funny 😂 It's no surprise to me since I've read the soulmates collection, but it's hilarious to imagine Jeno listening to Haechan's story with widened eyes 😂

“That’s right. I can’t let two men, Gryffindor men, deal with a love issue,” you grabbed a pen and looked at them both commanding their attention.

She has Hermione energy and I love it

The walls were brushed a light pink colour instead of the usual boring light grey.

MC being a Slytherin is such a nice detail imo. She's in the same house as Doyoung, so she can help in setting him up, and we get to witness the wonderful changing walls once again!

The changes in your room were usually subtle - fresh flowers in the vase on days you felt hopeful, little small fireworks around your bed when you finished your assignments, drops in temperatures when you felt angry. But you’ve never seen your walls change colour before. 

I wish my own walls could do this. It's so nice 🥺

Jeno’s gaze was incendiary. “Minus 100 points to Slytherin.” 

Hahahaha

Your toxic trait was that you had the lowest self-esteem in the world but also a God complex...

Not me. Nope. That's definitely not me 🙈🙋🏻‍♀️

"Are you sure you won't forget me?" 

🥺🥺🥺🥺

“The colour of your lipstick suits you a lot,” he added, whispering.

Haechan was staring at your lips before he slowly locked eyes with you. Then with a little smile, he went back to reading his boring book as if nothing happened

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

“Demons are ugly and evil. You’re-,” you gulped, “-very good looking and good-hearted. You’re helping your friend. That’s what angels do.” 

“Thank you,” you heard him whisper. 

This is so tender 😭😭😭😭

You also wondered if his problem was resolved but you weren’t about to look down at his pants to check.

Lollll

Yet he never felt more miserable. He pulled you towards him, holding you tight against his chest as if it were the last time he could do it. 

I will cry now-

"So you disappear, either way, that’s what you’re saying?" “You don’t tell me anything. Anything at all. I don’t know what’s a joke and what’s not. I don’t know when you’re serious and when you’re not. And now you’re leaving? You disappear from my life either way? Jeno was right. I should have stayed away from you. No. It’s on you.”

SAM 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 I hate that he has to leave, but I'm glad that there are more parts where they get to be together again.. the hope eases my heart 😢

“She wouldn’t know who you are though, of course. You’d need to meet her again and again in all the universes you’ll travel to. Like two strangers. Except you’d remember everything and she wouldn’t.” 

I like how IWNV is going to be different from the 'soulmates collection' in that Haechan will still remember in every universe. I can't wait to read from that angle 🥰🤧

“What are you going to do huh? Talk to her? Say what? You’re a Demon and you just talked in another Universe a few days ago? She doesn’t remember you. That’s a different version of her.”

PLEASE I don't think I can read the next parts without shedding actual tears 😭😭

You adjusted the big red and yellow scarf you had around your neck in the reflection of the window.

😳😳 I'm intrigued 😳😳 HOW??

Sam!! This is GREAT!! It's hilarious, playful and sad. It's basically perfect!! I love the MC, I love Haechan's and Jeno's character too!! I really really really can't wait to read the next part!!!! And I truly appreciate how you keep putting out fics for us even when you're busy with your life 🥺 Love you 💖💝💗💞💓

I will not vanish | One

I will not vanish [MASTERLIST] is a companion series/backstory to the ‘soulmates collection’ [doyoung]

demon/gryffindor haechan x slytherin fem reader

genre: fantasy, university setting of hogwarts with different magic, romance, angst, smut

warnings: +18, strong language, mention of murder, explicit sexual content [fingering, handjob], virgin reader, sexual tension

other characters: gryffindor prefect/demon jeno, slytherin prefect doyoung, ravenclaw prefect selene (oc), hufflepuff prefect jaemin, archangel mark

words: 19.1k

note: the terminology used [demon, angel, archangel] has no correlation to the usual religious connotations

PROLOGUE

Haechan was not born. 

But he had a beginning and he could perfectly remember the instance he opened his eyes.

“Welcome to the Academy.”

Haechan was standing still. He moved a finger, then the whole hand. Finally, he looked at his proximity and saw a pair of eyes. He didn’t know what the Academy was, who talked and where they were exactly, but he knew what eyes were. He thought he was looking at himself at first but then the eyes blinked faster than he felt his own eyes blink. So he knew. It wasn’t him. 

It was another.

Then he looked around and he saw another. And another. All standing tall, slowly moving as if suddenly awakened from a dream. 

Keep reading

[overcaffeinated-creative]

⚰️⚰️ for Jai and Harti because I'm terrible :D

Send ⚰️ for a glimpse of my muse’s funeral

Summary: Jai Vetra’s Death and Funeral as told between himself and his granddaughter.

Rating: T

Warnings: Character Death

Characters: Jai Vetra, Solus Vetra, Harti Wren, Iviin Shysa, Kal Skirata, Vhonte Tervho, Fenn Rau, Ahsoka Tano

Notes: The changes are clearly marked between paragraphs with a back and fourth between Jai and then a snippet of Solus and a Conversation.

(I promise I’ll get to Harti’s soon but I’ve been writing this since like 7 AM and it went on so much longer than expected. It’s 1505 words in an experimental style.)

“Havea drink with me for you ba’buir,” Iviin Shysa suggested whileshoving the bottle into her hands. Old, almost bruised eyes glancedup at him from beneath a white buzz cut. The past week had beencruel. “We’ll celebrate his memory and his name.”

Solusdrank deep before handing the bottle back. “Thank you, ‘Alor.”

Hetook a seat on the bench next to her, knees bumping together. “Nothanks needed. We’re going to handle this as best we can.”

–

JaiVetra would not receive a traditional Mandalorian funeral. What wasleft of Clan Vetra, as well as his followers and friends, would nothave the chance to mourn him together. There would be no gathering inthe early dawn hours to prepare his body for cremation. Solus wouldnot receive his full set of armor to forge into her own nor even apiece of it. As the sunset they would not scatter his ashes thencelebrate his life. There would be no crowd to share food and drinkas music played and stories flowed. Not even a battlefield funeralwould happen in his honor.

–

“Hehated Kamino,” Kal Skirata told her over a comm call at Krownest’smorning. Her sluggish mind supplied it was closer to evening or nighton Mandalore. “Swore the entire planet conspired against him havinga break. They’d beat his door down at the crack of dawn for what heclassified as strill shit.” His tone took a humorous turn, “Whichseemed to be anything less than the end of the Galaxy before his twocups of caf. After those cups it became whatever should’ve beensent to Jango first.”

Theirphone call ran for over an hour much to Solus’ delight. Kal hadnumerous stories to tell about his time with Jai in Cuy’val Dar.Funny quips delivered in passing all the way to her ba’buir’sability to weaponize the chain of command like a true bureaucrat.However, the surreal feeling still nagged at her mind. She only foundout he had been alive all of that time after he died.

Kal’sface shifted when he caught something off in her expression. “Don’tlook so down, Ad’ika. He loved you more than anything in thisGalaxy and so was proud of you. Make sure you always remember that.He did everything for you.”

–

JaiVetra perished a month after the issuing of Order 66 during theUprising of Tipoca City. It went against all expected outcomes. Forhis entire life, he had been known as a survivor. No matter thetrauma inflicted or the impossibility of the odds he survived. It wasjoked he was part Corellian because of it. After Galidraan, everyoneaccepted Death would have to take him  of old age while passed outdrunk. There would be no other way to have a fighting chance. Yet, asKorda Six showed the mortality of Jaster Mereel and Geonosis that ofJango Fett; Kamino became his proof of only being human.

–

“Hewas the architect behind our escape,” Vhonte Tervho whispered inthe late hours of the evening. They sat back to back before the fireplace in the large dining room. Solus could not recall how they endedup that way. “The Empire had the longnecks lock everything down.I’ve never felt so cornered in my life. Neither had the others andit was making us all antsy. Except for Jai. He was just as unshakableas always. Told us to keep doing our jobs and trust him.”

“Ba’buirwas always good at that.” Solus felt tears start to drip down hercheeks. “He did the same thing during the Clan Wars. If someonestarted panicking he’d talk ‘em through it.”

“Then,a couple of nights ago he showed up with this plan. I was part of itand I don’t know how it worked.” Her voice wavered. “All of usthat got out, from the other Mandos to the child clones, owe himeverything.”

–

JaiVetra had never been taken with starfighters but he died in one. Athis absolute prime, he was still incapable of the preternaturalmaneuvers Harti executed. There was never any jealous there, onlylove and awe and respect. Secondhand stories (and in one instance themost terrifying holofootage of the past ten years) told him Soluspossessed the same skills; maybe more so. Yet, he still elected topilot a starfighter for their escape. Transports would need theirbest pilots to protect their precious cargo. For this flight he couldstand guard over their six or clear the way.

–

“TheOld Man was something else,” Fenn Rau told her looking almostsomber. Part of her was still reeling from his surprise visit to theVetra Stronghold. Concord Dawn, and by extension the JourneymenProtector’s, were iffy about the burgeoning True Mandalorians. “Hewas always full of surprise and one of the better ver’alor I’vemet.”

Hersmile came across weak while she muttered, “He hated being calledthat.”

“Ihated being called vaar’ika and that never stopped him.” For amoment, she saw the brazen, defiant man she came to know as Fenn Rauinstead of this somber ghost.

“Takeit as a compliment,” she tried to tease with a limp twitch todrooping ears. “It’s what he used to call Har’ba’buir andmyself. All of his favorite people are small, spitfire pilots.”

“Isee a lot of him you.” Lavender flooded Solus’ face. “Both ofyou are white haired, pains in my ass who could rally anyone foranything.”

–

JaiVetra had been assured he would never die alone but that was exactlyhow he went at age 66. A failed evasion resulted in engine damagethat sent him into an uncontrolled glide to a landing platform.Skittering across the metal he finally slowed to a halt flippedupside down. There was nothing to see past the transparisteel canopy.All he could hear was the muffled firefight outside over his ownrapid heartbeat. Something began to pool around his broken body. Atfirst, he thought it was rain but with cool sensation throughout itcould have been blood as well. Nothing would matter thought becauseit would all be over too soon.

–

“Ja’ikasaid he survived by looking for the light,” Harti mused more tohimself than his granddaughter walking beside him. “He said that nomatter how dark it seemed there would always be a light. He had tostumble for it a few times, maybe even missed the cue , but it wasthere in the end.”

“Itdoesn’t hurt less.” Her shoulders started shaking while sheworked hard to keep pace. “It doesn’t make anything hurt less.”

Hestopped in the center of the hallway to draw her into a warm hug.“Sol’ika,” her murmured into her hair, “now is the mostimportant time to look for the light. We’ve lost so many people,both Mandalorian and not, and we will lose more. But, look at thoseJai and the others saved with their sacrifices. Think of the livesyou and your friends saved. There’s a way out even if we have tolight it ourselves.”

–

JaiVetra died alone as an invader in a foreign land according to therecords. What was not included was the sort of funeral he stillreceived. The last of his strength was used to start his favoriteaudio clip; “I love you, Ba’buir!” singsonged from a tiny voicewith Harti’s warm laugh echoed in the background. Baptized in fuel,a stray spark turned the entire starfighter into a shining inferno.But, beyond that there was those who would carry his name forward.

–

“Wouldit be okay if I learned to say Remembrance with you?” Ahsoka asked,sounding almost unsure. They were curled around each other in bed.Solus’ head resting on her shoulder with a leg flung over her body.Ahsoka’s near arm curled beneath Solus while the other rested onher hip, thumb absentmindedly tracing the curve of the bone. “Iknow it’s something really important to you.”

Blinkingseveral times, Solus tried to study Ahsoka’s face in the dark. Atbest, she gathered bright eyes were staring at the ceiling. “Ofcourse. I’ll teach you when we wake up.” Squinting she tried tomake out if the blue chevrons of the closest lek had darkened any.“Any reason why?”

“Itsounds dumb…because I didn’t know your grandfather at all. But, Iwant to help you remember him.” Her voice grew higher in pitch.“Since we’ve known each other you’ve always said it. Becausepeople live on through their names being remembered right? Or, thatwas how you explained it two years ago.” Shifting their bodiesAhsoka settled only when she could look squarely into Solus’ eyes.“And I’ve heard you say Skyguy’s name too. It’s somethingyou’re doing for me and I just…I just wanted to do the same foryou. That way there’s two people remembering their names.”

Ba’buirwas right about finding the light.