#if you were? then go ahead and want it a different way.

[astonmartinii]

other side of the moon: chapter four | formula one imagine

chapter four: matchstick men

pairing: fem retired formula one driver reader x ??? fem retired formula one driver reader x platonic!kimi antonelli

the cocktail party is fun while it lasts, late guests throw y/n’s decision into question but also show her just who she’s a mentor to.

MASTERLIST | TIP JAR | SERIES MASTERLIST

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there was a january chill in the monaco air as max and y/n exited the dutchman’s apartment complex and started their short walk to kimi’s place. y/n pulled the shawl around her tighter, the light material of her slip dress doing nothing to keep the heat in.

“i told you you were going to be cold,” max teased, pulling her into a side hug, rubbing his free hand up and down her arm, “are you sure you don’t want me to run back and get your jumper?”

y/n leaned further into the dutchman’s warmth but shook her head, if she was really that cold by the time they made it to kimi’s she’d just had to steal something from them.

“sometimes you have to make sacrifices to look this good maxy,” y/n said, poking her tongue out at him, “and that includes hypothermia!”

“you don’t need to do anything, you’re perfect the way you are. i should’ve known you were still the same diva from karting when you still managed to look perfect in that ghastly shade of orange.”

“a dutchman who doesn’t like orange, now this is a scandal!”

“i like my orange, my shade - not that ugly papaya. i like you in my orange.”

“well if you play your cards right i might just wear some in zandvoort. they might be paying me a lot, but no one can pay me enough to wear that ugly uniform.”

max tightened his grip on y/n as they turned the corner to kimi and ollie’s place. there, in front of their door, stood the pair… in suits.

“did i miss the memo of this being a black tie event?” max yells, making the two boys jump, “now i look like i just rolled out of bed!”

“you always look like you’ve just rolled out of bed, we’re lucky i put all of your red bull merch in the wash so you’d wear something different tonight.”

kimi came to stand by y/n, she looked down at the italian and fixed his collar.

“are the suits too much? we wanted to make a good impression but… are they all going to laugh at us?” his voice was small and the way he craned his head to look at y/n made him look even smaller.

“no! it’s cute, you guys are going the extra mile and that means a lot. plus if they have a problem with you dapper gents, then they’ll have a problem with me!”

kimi giggled as the pair started on their way to charles’, ollie hung back and turned to max, “thank you for convincing her to say yes, he hasn’t stopped bouncing off the walls since.”

max slapped ollie’s back, “he convinced her all himself. that letter had her immediately, i think she has this weird belief that we’re not all over the moon she’s back. she’s been more herself in these past few days since meeting him than she has in three years. trust me mate, she was a shell of herself. hell, i would’ve given him the second red bull seat years ago if i knew he would bring the real her back to me.”

“i don’t think you have the power to give out the second red bull seat?” ollie pointed out, max shushed him loudly, “that’s what we want you to think.”

up ahead, y/n and kimi had linked arms like they were old friends.

“i don’t want you to be nervous going here tonight. i know my whole retirement to solitude may look like i don’t like anyone in formula one but truth be told they’re all big nerds. i expect you thought max was this big massive asshole before you met him properly but we all know he’s a big softie inside.”

kimi let out a deep breath, “i know i’ve technically met all of them, i mean i’ve been to countless race weekends now, but i’m still scared - i don’t want them to treat me like a kid, i’m a competitor!”

y/n laughed even though truth be told she was guilty of treating kimi like her long lost child, hair ruffles and cheek pinches, the lot. kimi tugged on her arm, “what was it like when you first met the drivers? not like on the grid where everyone is on their best behaviour, but when you truly met them?”

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march 2020 - bahrain testing.

“i’m nervous! what if they hate me!”

y/n whined, throwing the entire contents of her suitcase at george sat on the bed. despite having meticulously planned about a million different outfits for the annual post-test party, she was at a loss for what to wear.

“did you smash into them during preseason? did you piss in their coffee? no! so you’ll be fine, stop worrying.”

“but what if they still hate me?” the look on her face was so genuine that george’s heart broke a little.

“no one can be angry at you for too long,” george laughed, “i’m sure that even if you shunted them into the first wall you they’d be here grovelling first thing.”

pelting another piece of clothing at george’s head, “what like you? i remember monaco last year. how long did it take you?”

“i don’t know what you’re talking about, i’m a broody, stoic stallion, i don’t grovel.”

“your delivery of artisan croissants and a teary monologue about how much i mean to you says different…”

a blush breaks out over george’s face at the memory. he’d hardly covered himself in glory in monaco he’d admit that, but every ounce of common sense left stage right when he saw y/n lean in and lick the line of salt off of mick’s hand.

“i treasure our friendship, i didn’t want to lose you over a dumb drunk argument,” george said, taking her hand in his, “i’m older now and i know when i should and when i shouldn’t step in. you’re old enough and ugly enough to look out for yourself.”

the pair had been friends since they first started karting against each other. y/n was nervous, lining up against a grid of boys for the first time but george had come right over and introduced himself, prim and proper handshakes and all.

y/n finally found the dress she had been looking for in the worryingly big pile of clothes, jumping up with a pleased grin. she ran to the bathroom and pulled it on, a short black sequin dress with boots and a black leather jacket on top. y/n thought she looked mysterious enough without looking like she was attending a funeral.

“what do you think georgie? does it scream ‘don’t take me out on track or i’ll kill you’ but also a healthy amount of ‘i’m a scared little girl don’t be mean to me or i’ll cry’?”

george was speechless, his mouth open but no words finding their way out. y/n did a little spin but he was still sputtering and running his hand through his hair like a mad man. he cleared his throat and stood up abruptly, “you look amazing y/n, i mean seriously amazing but i just remembered that i think i left the iron on in my room and i don’t want to burn the entire hotel down!”

he rushed towards the door, flinging it open, “williams definitely can’t afford that, i’ll see you later!”

he took off running down the hotel corridor, very nearly barrelling into alex who was on his way to y/n’s room.

“where’s he off to?” alex asked, coming into the room and making his way straight to the mini bar.

“he said he left the iron on in his room? i don’t know. he just started freaking out for like no reason. i just asked him whether this outfit is cute enough for tonight and he just sat there like i told him his whole family is dead and bolted.”

“weird.”

“so weird, right?” y/n made her way back to the bathroom to start her makeup, “i don’t know what came over him, is my outfit really that offensive? alex, you’ll tell me if it’s too much, right?”

“i think it might have been too much for george, but he’s being a weird puritan maniac recently, so?”

y/n poked her head past the door, “you’re so right. he’s posted about a hundred topless photos since making it to formula one but got so angry at me for licking mick’s hand!”

y/n was so close to the point it was right in front of her, but much to alex’s disappointment it looked as if she was just as useless as the rest of them. he tried to hide his annoyance on his face, but y/n still caught onto it.

“did you think that was bad too?! have you people never done tequila shots? so do you think this is too slutty for a driver party?”

alex shot up, nearly spilling his drink all over y/n’s bed, “no! george was being a weirdo about the tequila salt thing, had a proper bee in his bonnet that night. you look great, don’t change. i think he’s going through boy things…”

alex did not sound convinced by his own words, but he would work with it. y/n was confused until alex picked up a pillow and mimed putting it in a very specific spot and it finally clicked.

“he got a boner?!”

alex barked out a laugh, “oh tell the whole floor why don’t you? be quiet!”

y/n could not keep her laughs in, folding over with tears streaming down her face. this would definitely explain the emergency exit.

“you cannot tell him i told you, swear it!” alex hissed, grabbing y/n’s hand, “please, he’ll kill me and you know him he’s weirdly sadistic he’d go all dexter on me!”

the two linked pinky fingers, “i promise to never tell george that you told me he got a boner from me in a leather jacket”

“didn’t have to go into that much detail, but yeah i promise too.”

y/n touched her makeup as alex finished off his drink, “but you’re sure this is okay? everyone knows that the real time you meet the grid is when they’re all drunk.”

“you look great, stop worrying. i think george would agree, little george as well-” y/n pelted a pillow at him.

“i just fixed my makeup, don’t make me cry laugh again!”

y/n slipped her shoes on and the pair made their way down to the lobby and across the street to the bar. it was very laidback, completely empty bar the other drivers and some of their significant others.

“about time you guys turned up!” daniel called out from the table most of the drivers were huddled around.

“sorry all, um, we had something to iron out - ouch!” alex said before an elbow to the side from y/n cut him off. the rest of the table were none the wiser but george was suddenly infatuated with his drink, hoping the small umbrella in the glass could cover his blush.

amongst all of the chaos of welcomes, lance pulled up a chair for y/n and asked what she would be having to drink. “just a tequila sunrise for me lance, if they do them. thank you.”

the canadian gave her a little salute before heading to the bar. pulling up his own chair beside her, alex grumbles a little ‘don’t ask me if i want a drink then’ and gets another shove.

daniel claps loudly, silencing the table. he turns to y/n theatrically, wiggling his eyebrows. “so, to our lonely rookie of the season here, a couple of questions.”

the table all turned to her and y/n let out a nervous chuckle, fiddling with her jacket - where was lance with that drink?

“we won’t be hazing you, no worries. no that’s actually illegal, although i am curious as to your karaoke song of choice… we’re getting off topic! my burning question is… growing up with half of the grid you must have a rolodex of embarrassing stories about them. spill. i’m talking embarrassing falls, pissing in their karts or awkward boners, i want all of it!”

daniel looked at her earnestly, waiting on her response. this was a little overwhelming, lance had returned with her drink, alex was trying to keep his laughs at the mention of boners and charles was fixed on her with a death glare - guess the waterpark story was out of the question.

all of the focus was on her and it was overwhelming. y/n was somewhat used to having people watch her every move, you get used to that as the only girl in paddocks where people are just waiting for you to fail.

“i don’t know if i want to make enemies on the grid this early on,” y/n said, looking shyly at daniel to see whether this would be considered a good enough answer.

“very diplomatic, very diplomatic indeed,’ daniel said, pondering, “you’ll do well with the media with answers like that.”

“you learn quick as a girl in this sport.”

the entire table quietened again, although a lot more awkward this time. great first impression. daniel broke the silence once again, “not that we’re going to haze you, but just out of interest, what IS your go to karaoke song?”

“man i feel like a woman,” y/n answered without hesitation, seeing a wide smile break out on daniel’s face, “i think we’ll get along very well, rookie,” daniel replies. the aussie stands up and drags her to the bar, proclaiming that they ‘simply must do some shots together on account of being his new best friend’. y/n was not complaining, this was the first driver outside of the 2019 rookies and max who was expressing actual interest in friendship.

max had always gushed about daniel during and after their time at red bull together. y/n was surprised she hadn’t seen the dutchman yet that evening, but recalled him saying that he wanted to let her get to know the others, not wanting to hover over her like an overprotective parent.

another figure slipped in beside her at the bar and when she turned she came face to face with none other than sebastian vettel. the german gave her a soft smile and said, “i hope tonight wasn’t too daunting for you, we’re all very excited to have you on the grid, though some more than others.”

y/n raised her eyebrow, imploring him to continue. “the way max insists on praising you at every turn i thought your name was already on the second red bull.”

she let out a short laugh, “max does like talking…”

“oh he’s been showing us your formula two highlights all season, gushing about your lines and how we’ll all have to watch our backs this season.”

daniel finally got their shots and butted into the conversation, “max literally hasn’t shut up since you started in formula two, he’s all in on the y/n train.”

y/n smiled. she knew max was a big supporter of hers but hearing it from others made her heart swell.

the trio headed back to the main group who in the short time at the bar had managed to consume a worrying amount of alcohol. there was something surreal about seeing world champions struggle to string a sentence together or keep their heads up straight.

“oh my god what happened? how are they this fucked? we were gone for like five minutes?”

sebastian chuckled, looking over to fernando who was practically sat on a very bemused kimi raikkonen’s lap, “some of us have tasted the glory of winning the championship, so when you know that your car is nowhere near that this season, you cope in your own way.”

the bar had descended into chaos, looking closer to a renaissance painting than a sophisticated night out amongst high performance athletes. alex was sat in the same seat but now found himself flanked by two of his rookie class who now closely resembles a pair of clingy cats. y/n was sure she even saw lando, for the lack of a better word, nuzzle alex’s neck.

when checo appeared with an entire platter of tequila shots, alex took that as his cue to take lando and george home before they got their hands on any more alcohol.

“do you want some help with them?” y/n asked, watching alex wrangle the two drivers towards the exit.

“no, i can handle them. if you think this is bad, you should’ve seen them last year, proper made a fool of themselves. stay and get to know everyone, soon they’ll be so drunk you’ll have some good blackmail material on them.”

y/n hadn’t thought about that. not that she’d ever blackmail a fellow driver…

“well good luck getting them back to their rooms, see you tomorrow!”

y/n turned back to the mess in the bar. max was pouring pure gin in pierre’s mouth, charles was trying (key word, trying) to slow dance with sebastian despite the only music playing being edm and kevin magnussen was already asleep at the main table with nico hulkenberg and lance stacking coasters on his head.

“enjoying the circus?” a voice asks her from behind, y/n turned to see none other than kimi raikkonen. trying not to show her nerves, y/n took one of the drinks kimi was holding.

“i think i am. it’s a bit overwhelming.”

kimi nodded. there was a silence between them but it wasn’t uncomfortable.

“are you excited for your first formula one race?”

“i am. i just want to show mclaren that they made the right decision on me.”

“you’ll be fine, trust me. i watched you in testing. i know that doesn’t mean much when it comes to the actual pace of the car, but you already had good control over the car. have faith in yourself.”

all of the praise from everyone else was nice but to get that many words out of kimi, it all was real now.

“thank you kimi, i hope we get to race this season. you’re a hero of mine.”

“that makes me feel old.”

“oh! i didn’t me too-”

“i’m kidding. most people would’ve chosen seb or lewis as they’re heroes.”

“oh i admire them, but there was only one blonde i loved in formula one.”

kimi let out a little laugh. the two sat there, observing for a couple of moments.

“don’t trust anyone,” kimi said suddenly, turning to y/n. “huh?”

“don’t trust anyone. i’m sorry that it’ll likely be worse for you, but these people they’re not really your friends, not when you’re in the car and everything is on the line. you can’t take it personally but you can prepare yourself. you’re a girl, so people will take their side more often than not. just know you’re here for a reason, they can’t push you around without repercussions.”

y/n took a second to let it sink in. there were things that managers and friends from outside the sport had warned her about, but a reminder from someone like kimi made it really resonate.

“i guess i’ll just have to be so fast that they can’t get near me.”

kimi laughed, properly this time. they clinked their glasses and went back to watching the mess unfold before them.

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yourusername

may 2020.

liked by alexalbon, lewishamilton and 1,289,409 others

tagged: georgerussell63, fernandoalo_oficial & landonorris

yourusername: that’s one way to get introduced to the grid

view all comments

user1: the way i’d actually give a kidney to have been here

user2: so much i need to know, so little information

user3: george and lando are never getting rid of the lightweight allegations

yourusername: as long as i am living and breathing those allegations will live on

landonorris: and when i sue you for slander

yourusername: come for me baby i know the law

landonorris: bring it on, the mclaren legal team love me

yourusername: they’ll take one look at my camera roll and laugh in your face xxx

landonorris: CAMERA ROLL?

yourusername: sleep well

landonorris: i will ruin your life rookie

user4: mclaren duo you are so precious

user5: now i have them, i can never see them at different teams

user6: they’re my prediction for biggest surprise this season

maxverstappen1: who keeps leaving bottles of gin unattended around me

yourusername: why can’t you control yourself around them

maxverstappen1: gin talks to me like the green goblin mask

yourusername: that much is clear

yourusername: poor pierre was sent into a different dimension that night

pierregasly: still better than my red bull experience

user7: this girl has chemistry with everyone damn

user8: bro sees a girl having banter with someone and loses his mind

user9: this is why the ‘friend zone’ exists because you guys mistake a girl being nice or funny for flirting

alexalbon: i miss out on so much because those dumbasses can’t handle liquor

yourusername: you should’ve just left them to die?

alexalbon: i fear both mclaren and williams know my address

georgerussell63: i don’t know where this is all coming from?

alexalbon: you threw up in the shower?

georgerussell63: i don’t recall this therefore it didn’t happen

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“george got a boner? can i use that as blackmail for a quali tow?” kimi gasped, clutching his metaphorical pearls.

“do not tell him i told you that,” y/n thought for a second, “or you can, i don’t really care.”

the four of them approached charles’ house and could already hear the hustle and bustle from inside. y/n went to ring the bell but kimi grabbed her hand quickly,

“you’re sure this will be okay?”

the italian had a little shake in his voice.

“you’re going to be fine, everyone will love you, okay? stop doubting yourself.”

she finally rung the bell and the group could hear the silence sweep throughout the house. the door swung open to reveal charles who was already pink in the face, telling y/n that the monagasque had already been amongst the drinks.

“well look what the cat dragged in,” charles said looking her up and down. the three behind her were suddenly weary, charles’ face had hardened when his eyes landed on y/n. “i’ve fucking missed you!”

charles pulled her into a tight hug. the world had stopped. y/n hadn’t spoken to charles since the crash and three years of silence was suddenly pouring out of both of them. tears slipped out from both of them, pulling each other so tight like they were trying to fall into each other’s bodies.

“as touching as this all is, it’s fucking freezing out here and i’d love that cocktail i was promised?”

max broke the silence in his typical fashion and charles finally acknowledged the three others. his smile turned wicked when he realised what kimi and ollie were wearing.

“oh mon amis, those suits are just too cute!”

y/n peered over charles’ shoulder with a very clear ‘i told you so’ written on her face. charles pulled on ollie’s hands, muttering about how well dressed his son is, and ushered the rest of them into his home.

kimi, ollie and max continued down the corridor and into the common space with the other attendees but y/n and charles hung back.

“i’m being serious, i really missed you,” charles said, “i really haven’t been the friend i should’ve been during all of this. i know i hurt you and i don’t expect you to forgive me, but know i am sorry, truly.”

the tears had returned to charles’ eyes once again. y/n tried to summon the anger that she had festered in for three years, but here, stood face to face with charles, she just couldn’t. the monegasque looked so wrecked and she knew that wasn’t a lie. y/n, through common sense but also the advice of her therapist, had never seen the race that ended her career. however, in a weak moment of social media addiction, y/n had stumbled upon a clip of charles’ radio. it was a compilation of his radios across the year, including grosjean’s fireball, pierre’s near miss in japan a couple years ago and finally, silverstone 2022.

“holy fuck, holy fuck, holy fuck! is that y/n?”

“i can confirm it is y/ln, we are waiting for news from mclaren”

“is she okay? has she responded on the radio?”

“no news yet charles, stay in delta and come to the pit lane.”

“anyone but her, god please. please be okay, please, please, please. not another one, don’t take another one.”

shivers had wrung up her spine when she had heard it. the weekend had been so traumatic that she had hardly stopped to think about anyone else. the crash had unleashed such an ugly anger within her, so powerful that just a glimpse of a formula one car made her feel so vulnerable to her emotions. instead of facing it head on, it just felt easier to hide and to try and forget.

“hey, hey,” y/n took charles’ face in her hands, “look at me okay, i have no hard feeling against you. you don’t need to be sorry, these things happen. i did what i thought i had to do and that was hide. was it healthy? no, but i hate that my silence might have made you think that i blame you in any way.”

charles let out a wet laugh and y/n continued, “i heard your radio, for the first time a couple months ago. i know what you’ve been through, i should’ve spoken to you.”

charles shook his head, “you did what you needed to do, i won’t ever hold it against you. i’m just glad you’re here now, we can make up for lost time now. although i am pretty offended that you didn’t come back for me but for this kid?”

“kimi is a lot nicer than all of you dummies,” y/n poked her tongue out, “and once he looks at you like a lil puppy, you can’t say no.”

y/n smiled to herself, and charles replicated it. the two just existed together for a moment, listening to the greetings down the hall. a small shiver of doubt made its way up y/n’s spine. the reunion with charles had gone well, but would everyone else look past her three year silence?

“they’re looking forward to seeing you,” charles said, nudging y/n closer to the action. she took a small breath and made her way to the common area.

all conversation ceased when she took her first step in the room. max, kimi, ollie and alex all smiled at he, trying to ease her into the room. carlos looked happy to see her, but as always there was something off in his eyes, like he didn’t quite trust her and oscar was there? y/n had never met the aussie but had heard he was a little standoffish.

oscar couldn’t even make eye contact with her, he looked anywhere else, charles’ white ceiling suddenly the most interesting thing in the world. that was odd.

“welcome back!” alex yelled, making everyone else jump, “i have missed you so much, so much has happened. please never disappear again!” he said, wrapping her in a hug. y/n snuggled in closer, breathing in the familiar scent of her friend. drawing back she looked up at him with a strange look,

“have you changed your cologne?”

“well, i’d like to think i have changed a lot in three years, but yes i have?”

“do you have a girlfriend?”

“tell me you don’t check my instagram why don’t you? yes i do, you’ll have to come to dinner at some point. lily is very excited you’re coming back, she says we don’t shut up about you.”

y/n was so happy for alex, “you smell like a girl, she’s done wonders for you.”

alex’s smile fell immediately, “i didn’t miss this, you didn’t get any nicer in your break huh?”

“still a bitch i fear.”

everyone was back engrossed in their conversations, with carlos keeping his distance from y/n by busying himself with charles at the bar. y/n saw oscar again, hovering by ollie, trying and failing to conceal his staring.

“is oscar usually this weird with new people?” y/n asked alex, “he’s staring but also can’t make eye contact without looking like he’s going to shit himself.”

“oh he’s got massive survivors guilt, which is a weird way to put it considering he wasn’t in the race that day, but…”

oh. now it makes sense. “i see, i should probably talk to him shouldn’t i?”

“you can if you want to but you also don’t owe anyone anything? it’s your choice.”

y/n looked over again and oscar again quickly diverted his eyes. here goes nothing. making her way to the other group of drivers, oscar started looking for his escape.

“hi guys, are you okay if i steal the aussie for a second?”

the rest of the group didn’t care but oscar sputtered out a, “really? i’m okay, you don’t have to talk to me if you don’t want to?”

“come on,” y/n took ahold of his arm, “let’s go talk somewhere else.”

the aussie looked nervous but he followed y/n through charles house. after trying a couple doors, the finally found a study and the pair sat down. oscar couldn’t stop fidgeting, he felt the sweat beading at his brow and the collar of his shirt was starting to strangle him.

“do you want to tell me why you’re so nervous?” y/n asked, “as far as i’m aware, you’ve done nothing to warrant this?”

oscar didn’t say anything. he didn’t know how to word it without sounding like an idiot.

“i just thought you would maybe resent me for taking your seat? i’m sorry for being such a weirdo about it. i know it was a dick move from me to not even bring you up but there was this whole thing with mark and zak, but i should’ve listened to myself, i’m sorry…”

it all spilled out at once and oscar just looked at her horrified. did she even know about mark and zak?

“oscar, i don’t resent you for taking the seat. i can’t say i’ve watched much more than just the races, so i can’t say for sure you’re the greatest guy off the track, although the fact you were even invited here tells me so, but you more than deserved that seat. yes, it’s unfortunate the way it became available, but i’ll never resent a racer for following his dreams.”

oscar let out a breath he didn’t even know he was holding, “thank you, you don’t know the amount of sleepless nights i had after i took the seat. i thought that maybe you would come back and either i’d have to give it up or i’d keep it and stop you from coming back. i mean you’re a hero of mine and all i could think was ‘am i an asshole for taking this from you when you’re still in hospital?’”

y/n sighed, “i won’t lie, it hurt. but not because of you. a full lifetime of work was snuffed out in one second. i understand formula one is a business but i don’t think zak knows that i could hear everything while i was in the medically induced coma.”

oscar’s head shot up at the mention of zak’s name and this told y/n everything she needed to know.

“he was on the phone just five minutes after the nurse told him i’d never be able to get in a formula one car again. my racing body wasn’t even cold yet. i do know it was mark on the phone. i’ve not held it against him, unless there’s something you’d like to tell me?”

was it betrayal if he told y/n? everything had already happened and the truth was y/n knowing wasn’t going to change anything. but if he didn’t say then y/n could decide to go back and watch interviews and videos and see what a big liar he was.

“him and zak had this weird thing they were stuck on. like i said you’re a hero of mine, and i still wanted to honour you in any way i could. i had a plan to have a 13 on my helmet, i even wanted to dedicate my first win to you. but i wasn’t allowed. they said i needed to leave you in the past or it would make me look weak.”

tears were falling down oscar’s face as y/n pulled him into a hug. the aussie shook with the strength of his sobs.

“i’m a grown man, i should’ve told them no, but i had just gotten there. i’m sorry, i wish i had a back bone.”

y/n ran her hands through his hair, comforting the younger driver, “oscar, don’t worry. i don’t take any offence. you forget i raced under zak, i know what an asshole he can be. you don’t have to do anything to make it up to me, just don’t be a stranger in the paddock. i may be there for kimi, but you can still come to me.”

y/n wasn’t sure how lando was treating oscar, had he started off kind with him and flipped on his head as well? it couldn’t hurt to check.

“i know lando can be difficult, so don’t think you’re alone okay? i know how it feels, so come complain to me if you need to.”

oscar laughed, “i know exactly what you’re talking about. did you watch hungary this year? that was a mess, it was so awkward in the garage after that. it’s creepy how he can turn it on for a video right? i don’t know what happened between you but it’s almost like he knew i wanted to dedicate it to you? he asked me like ten times whether i dedicated it to anyone.”

okay, that was a problem. y/n had stupidly thought that maybe lando going cold turkey from her for three years might have made whatever weird vendetta he had against her disappear, or at least lessen.

“if i’m being completely honest, i’m not sure what happened between us. we obviously grew up together and were close from that, we all were, but as soon as the racing started he just switched up, and by the sounds of it, it hasn’t gotten better in my absence.”

the pair moved to the bathroom to get oscar some tissues and make him look a little more presentable. fixing his hair, y/n said, “i’m serious oscar, there’s no hard feelings. i’m proud of you-”

y/n was cut off with some commotion coming from the common area. the pair looked at each other and hurried to the scene of the noise. there stood george and lando, they both looked like they had grown up, lando sporting some facial hair and george in a suprisingly formal getup.

both brits locked on y/n and oscar as they returned.

“so one mclaren driver wasn’t enough for you? you had to go and seduce oscar as well?”

lando accused, a look of pure disgust on his face, “he’s got a girlfriend as well, do you have any respect for yourself?”

y/n burst out laughing, looking bewildered at lando. “is this guy serious?” she asked looking around the room, most of them looking just as shocked as her at his outburst.

“i don’t know what you’re laughing at,” lando said and turned to oscar, “i really thought you’d last more than five minutes mate.”

“lando, i don’t know what you’re problem is, but we were clearing the air about me taking the seat after her crash. you know, we spoke, like normal fucking people. just because you couldn’t spend more than five minutes with the one girl in the sport without wanting to fuck her doesn’t mean i don’t see her as an actual person.”

oscar replied, standing in front of y/n who was shocked but also impressed by the aussie’s take down of his own teammate. lando glared at his teammate, “you know having her on side will do nothing for this bullshit bid you have to be the number one driver this season. in fact i remember her launching a plot like that herself, and look how that ended.”

one second lando was smirking in front of oscar and y/n and next he was on the floor, all courtesy of kimi. the italian was looming over lando, the angriest anyone in the room had ever seen him. ollie tried to grab his hand, but he yanked it back and set his sights back on lando.

“you really are the dumbest person in the world aren’t you?”

lando was speechless, still on the floor.

“she could’ve said so much about you, your team and the bullshit you both put her through, but she didn’t. we all know you were an asshole to her, she could’ve ruined this dumb boy next door act you’ve got going, but she didn’t. so you should think yourself lucky.”

kimi felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to see y/n. he stood up, moving away from lando and let y/n lead him towards the exit just as the other one decided to pipe up.

“she’s a bit old for you isn’t she, buddy?” george’s voice rung out, “or are you really going for the max verstappen route, problematic older woman and everything?”

that was a low blow. kelly was a sore subject for max, y/n didn’t really know much about her, just that they got together and broke up during the time that y/n was first moved to london. max had been the only one to know where she was, but that was only months after she had moved. y/n never met her and only heard about her when max had visited and gave her a life update that included a whirlwind romance.

“that’s a bold choice george,” max said, getting in his face, “isn’t kimi like a son to toto? you really think he’s choosing you over him? you were just a bed warmer for him when lewis had pissed him off. we all know he’d choose kimi and well, that he’d do anything for me, so are we really the ones you want to try and go toe to toe with?”

george narrowed his eyes at max, “i went through so much trouble for that girl back then, i hope you’re not getting your hopes up. she’ll just lead you on like she did to us, you’re just a stepping stone to her.”

“i am right here, you know? you don’t have to talk about me like i’m not?”

george’s head whipped around to her direction, “you were fine not talking for three years. why now? why come back now? there’s nothing for you there? or do you have an ulterior motive? are you using kimi to sabotage me?”

y/n let out another laugh in disbelief, “are you being serious right now? you can’t be this seriously delusional. despite popular belief, to you, not everything i do, is to do with you. both of you seem to have such an inflated view of your place in my life, please sleep well knowing i don’t want anything to do with either of you.”

charles interrupted, “i invited you two because i thought you would be happy to see y/n, why are you ruining my night? i brought olives and you’re bringing the mood down!”

“yes, i think it’s time you guys left.” max said, ready to escort them himself, with force if necessary.

the two gave y/n a final dirty look before storming out of charles’ house. y/n didn’t understand how it had gotten so bad between them, she longed for the times when they’d sneak out for ice cream at karting competitions and tell each other ghost stories. she wanted those times back so badly, but with displays like tonights she wasn’t sure if it was worth it. maybe those bridges had burnt the moment her car hit the wall.

the atmosphere in the room was thick, no one knew what to say following what ever they just witnessed.

“i guess we don’t outgrow the pettiness. ever.” ollie said, downing his drink, “if that’s what formula one does to a man i need another drink.”

charles started working behind his home bar and with the silence broken, the conversation started again.

“y/n i’m sorry i brought you back into this. i just wanted to have you as a mentor and try and get you to fall back in love with the sport, i didn’t want to bring you into a civil war where you get accused of seducing everyone.”

“kimi, i am happy to be here and we will work together. they don’t mean anything to me, okay? the things they say is water off a duck’s back for me now.”

“as long as you’re sure, i want you to enjoy it.”

“there’s enough of you i love to stick around. i’ve only known you for a short while, but the way you go for the things you want and stand up for what you believe makes me believe. they don’t matter to us. what matters is you and your car, and we will prove them all wrong.”

max slipped his arm around her shoulder as she spoke to kimi. “do you want to go?”

y/n looked back to kimi, “are you okay if we go? you and ollie can stay and enjoy yourself, rinse charles for as much as he’s worth.”

kimi nodded and hugged y/n. “see you soon, thank you again.”

“no worries, bunny.”

y/n and the dutchman grabbed their stuff and made their way to the door. charles escorted them out, “sorry it became such a downer, but i still liked seeing you again. we’ll have to get lunch some time before testing, arthur has been bothering me about meeting you.”

the pair ventured back out into the wind, a strained silence between them. “you know none of us believe what they said, right?”

“unfortunately, i’m very used to it maxy,” y/n said, leaning into him, “but it doesn’t bother me anymore. the people i care about know me, that’s all that matters.”

“just say the word and i’ll make their lives hell.”

“that’s noble, max, but i’m okay.”

“you let them get away with too much, y/n. seriously, what they just did was fucked up.”

“maybe to them i did do those things?”

“don’t say that,” max said stopping her, “they’re being childish. they can’t act like they have and expect that you’ll just fall into their arms.”

“do you think i’ll fall into your arms?”

“no. maybe? i don’t know, i want whatever you want. you know how i feel about you, but i just want you in my life. you’re the only one who has always really known me. we were so young and you saw me, not my dad and not my driving, but me. i will forever be grateful for you, it’s in your hands.”

“it’s all so confusing, max. if i do anything i just prove their point. at this moment i just need to exist. but i’d like to exist with you.”

“i’d like to exist with you too.”

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔:･

fin.

note: it's the drama mick i love it! a big bust up chap for you all, and boy have i been tired this weekend so this took a lil longer than i wanted it to. testing next!!!

taglist: @folkloresreputation @hc-dutch @shimmermotorsport @96mcobo @eclipsedcherry @formulaal @czennieszn @gothicwidowsworld @emily-b @suns3treading @henna006 @kazgirl20 @anotherapollokid @littlegrapejuice @daemyratwst @annimausi @yawn-zi @lulu-1998 @xsilkesworld @justaf1girl @daddyslittlevillain @evans-dejong @abq654 @elizamoe133 @wierdflowerpower @t1nkerbel1 @okcurran @raizelchrysanderoctavius @skepvids @multilovebot @fernandoalonso14 @jules-kup-172 @m4xgirlie @rorabelle15 @minkyungseokie @formula1-motogpfan @peterholland04 @miureiz @freyathehuntress @lighttsoutlewis @aleatorio1234 @chaosandevelyn @blueberry648579 @dog-and-cat-person230 @fastandcurious16 @obxstiles @cosmicwintr @becca388510 @savagittariuspy @tibadi @thisbitxhs-blog @finn-dot-com @scenesofobx @moofilms @alilstressyandlotdepressy @nana-love-bugzzz @mayax2o07 @obsessed-fan-alert

[vmlnrzmp4]

nsfw

cw: reader's first time going full way, 3 different positions, porn w plot, no use of condom(don't be silly, wrap the willy.) a/n: i usually don't give cw, trying to keep the smut a surprise. i have proof read it, but i think there might be some errors. feel free to correct me.

the air around was charged as the shuffling, heavy pants and moans filled the room. it was another one of kaiser's and yours pathetic dry humping session.

his head leaning on the head-rest while his hands gripped your hips, urging your movements to go faster and faster and faster—till the both of you come undone.

you leaned in to rest your head on his shoulder, the room filling with exhausted panting.

"so good angel," he kissed your temple, "so good."

but a word taunted you in your head. you faced him, meeting your eyes with his, "mihya...am i boring?"

"what are you saying angel?" he raised his eyebrow, clearly confused where that came from, "if this is about sex then no, you're not boring."

it had happened a day ago. you had gone out with your friends. sitting in a public cafe, talking about each other's sex life without a care, shamelessly—no matter how many people stared in surprise and disgust.

shortly after you and your friends were kicked out, the first thing they did was to drag you into a pharmacy. they told you to not to worry about the prescription. you wordlessly agree, taking the small rectangular box of birth control pills—so that you can stop with the boring sex life as your friends described it.

was it boring? sure you and your boyfriend never went any further that that and orals. but so lost in enjoying them, you never thought it would be considered boring and you got self conscious. what if he thinks like them? you worried.

"hey," kaiser cradled your face, his voice so gentle, "where did that come from?"

"tell me," you asked firmly, "do you ever wish to go further than this?"

"all the fucking time," he answered without hesitation, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear, the lovely guesture contrast to his lewd words.

the silence that followed didn't take much time as you started unbuttoning his shirt. just when you were down to two, he gripped your wrist, "are you sure?"

"yes." your response was quick.

he smirked, giving you a go-ahead and you went back to undoing the buttons, not bothering to even take off the shirt off his shoulders as you ran your fingers on his chest to his abs.

you reached his belt, undoing it—him helping you take it off, discarding it somewhere on the floor unconcernedly. he then pulled over your shirt off, unclipping your bra, also throwing away your shorts alongwith your panties.

he asked you if you were sure again. you nodded but he needed words.

"i want this."

"that's my girl," he presses his face in the crook of your neck, "ride me."

the next moment you found him in you. you didn't move however. he didn't let you. telling you that he had to take care of your tits first, running his hands around them.

"i wanna move," you whined, your hands that rested on his shoulders dug into his skin. it didn't pain him. even if he did, he considered it pleasure.

"patience angel, wanna be a good girl for me, don't you?"

you hummed a yes, "i wanna...but i want to move."

"beg."

"please," you pleaded, "i wanna move, mihya...i wanna feel you more...so badly, please."

he smirked, the corner of his lips tugging upwards in a shit eating grin as he coos at you, nodding at you to proceed.

it took you a bit by surprise when he moaned. yes, kaiser moaned. sure, the little pathetic sessions before had him grunting. but nothing compared to how he moaned now as you kept bouncing on his cock.

but other than that, the sight in front of him was to behold. you were getting there, he could tell by the way your bounces fastened and became irregular, following a certain pattern. his hands gripped your hips so tightly as he helps you bounce, the bed creaking and creaking.

the creaking finally stopped as the two of you reached peak and you slowed down, riding out your high.

"angel," he called out softly, "think you can go one more time?"

"yes, god, yes yes!" so lost in the moment, you threw the shame out of the window, letting arousal take over you.

he positioned you beneath him, as he littered kisses down your neck, collarbone—down to your tits, his tongue circling around your nipples without breaking eye contact.

your eyes roll to the back of your head as he aligned his cock in you. your leg over his shoulder, the other one spread out by his grip as he pounds into you with no mercy, "god," he breaths out, "look at you angel, so beautiful." oh how can his words be so lovely when he's fucking the sweet moans out of you.

"w-wait," you halt him.

"angel?"

"...kiss me, please?" and oh how could he say no? he leaned down, capturing your lips with his into a sweet kiss with simultaneously fucking you. he leans lower, biting into your shoulder, making you hiss.

"mihya...so—" you got interrupted when he hit the spot just right, letting a moan surpass your lips, "so c-close."

he chuckles at your pityful words, stopping and before you could even ask why he did so—he flips you around with a swift motion as his grip on your hips tighten, manhandling you to raise your ass upwards, your face squished in the pillow.

he pounds into you mercilessly from back. the room filling in with his moans, your muffled whimpers, the slapping sounds of the skin and creaking of bed. it was so so lewd.

"fuck angel...im not gonna last any longer. you close?"

you barely managed to choke out a muffled yes. at that, his movements grew erratic, though he didn't slow down.

he knew you came when he hears a loud cry of his name muffled. he thrusts into you a few more times as he cums inside you. pulling out, a groan escapes his lips as he sees his release dripping from your pussy.

he lays besides you, gently urging you to face him as he kisses you. he kisses and kisses. slow, fast, biting, licking. all of it, still having a gentle touch to it.

"you did so good angel," he pecks your forehead, "so good for me." he litters more kisses on your face, pulling you into his embrace, telling you how good you did, whispering sweet nothings.

"let's clean up yeah?" he exhales, "then i'll run to the store real quick."

"no need," you say.

"no need?" he questions, "what d'ya mean?"

"i um...brought plan B."

he lets out an airy laugh, "you were prepared, huh?"

"well..." you go on telling him about the conversation you had the day before. how your friends described their sex life. and when it came to you, they said what you and kaiser do was boring. he laughs at that, pulling you closer, calling you a dummy. he was thankful for it nonetheless.

"c'mon let's shower," he says, tho there was a tease in his tone, "another round?"

[fatuismooches]

Zandy speed-walking to your room wrapped in his blanket whenever he got nightmares wasn't anything new.

In the beginning, he felt guilty for bothering you in the middle of the night, but ever since you found out the child had bad dreams once in a while, you urged him to come find you no matter what time it was. Thankfully, they had significantly decreased since he met you, but there were still times he woke up scared and sweating, as if flames had nearly licked him. Admittedly, a part of him wished you could sleep in his room every day so it wouldn't happen, but he knew it wouldn't be fair to you.

At first, Zandy would knock on your door and wait for you to open before intruding, but eventually, you managed to convince him to just let himself in and onto your bed. During these instances, you'd wake up to the child cuddling to you, sometimes with Foxttore squished in between. It was healing for both of you. And tonight, Zandy thought as he tip-toed to your room, would be no different. Quietly twisting the doorknob and entering the room, he already felt a bit more at ease, especially at the sight of your silhouette. The boy walked to the bed and began to climb on it when suddenly a hand shot out to grab him, and he was faced with none other than fellow blood-red eyes.

Quickly, Zandy figured out the situation, when he noticed that you were actually on the other side of the bed, this person was none other than Prime Dottore which he didn't realize in the darkness, and that he had accidentally woken him up. It was only natural that Dottore would be woken up at the slightest noise - he had never been a deep sleeper.

But more importantly, the situation had turned awkward once Dottore had removed his grip from the boy, realizing it was just him. Immediately, Zandy tried to shuffle off the bed - he and Prime had been on way better terms lately, no longer being ignored, which was wholly thanks to you - but he was still hesitant to interact without you. But Dottore wasn't going to let him off that easy of course.

"... What are you doing here?" The boy's eyes nervously flitted from your sleeping body to Prime, hoping you'd wake up to get him out of the situation.

"W-Well..." Zandy's voice came out louder than he wanted, "I wanted to... to..." he then drifted off as he tried to think of a reasonable excuse. He could tell Dottore wasn't particularly impressed, moving to get up when suddenly a new voice entered the conversation.

"Zandik, what's wrong?" You yawned as you began to sit up in bed. "Usually, you aren't this noisy when you're sneaking off to go do work instead of sleep-" You stopped your sentence slowly and rubbed your eyes, as you now realized someone else was in the room too. "Zandy? Is that you?"

"Yes..."

"Another nightmare again? Poor thing, come here," you cooed, stretching your arms open. Dottore remained silent but quickly pieced together what happened. Well, it made an awful lot of sense - you somehow always managed to be soothing after experiencing the terrors of the mind. He too remembers the times he rested his chest on your chest after his own nightmares. Logically, when the scholar thinks about it, his child segment's nightmares were probably similar to his too.

However, Zandy didn't seem very certain of the idea anymore, more interested in heading out the door. You furrowed your eyebrows in confusion before you quickly remembered that Dottore was likely causing his hesitation.

"There's no need to be shy. You can stay, we don't mind," you said softly, moving to the edge of the bed and grabbing both his hands. "Right, Zandik?"

"... Go ahead. There's only a few more hours until I get up, anyway."

"See? Now come here." With only a bit of persuasion, the child was in between the two of you. Well, he was mostly attached to you while Dottore was just on the other side, but it was still sweet. You gently patted Zandy's head as you began yawning again, sleepiness still coursing through you. At that, Dottore pulled up the covers, making sure you (and the child) were warm.

"Good night, Zandy, Zandik..."

"Good night, [Name]... fa-" The word quickly softened and dried up on the boy's lips as he realized that he was still not brave enough for that yet. Zandy swiftly shut his eyes and willed his body to sleep as fast as possible.

A little while later, after Dottore was sure you both had dozed off, he sighed at the sight that was mostly covered in darkness, but he could still make out his child self's body wrapped by your larger one... as well as the rather wide and palpable gap in between his and his segment's.

Briefly turning over, the Harbinger glanced at the time. It would be time for him to return to his work soon, this break only a haven you begged to grant him. Dottore looked back at you, reaching out to caress your cheek, letting out another sigh. He moved his body closer, to where his own was only a little bit from touching Zandy's, and then wrapped a protective arm over you, and by extension, the child.

He would be gone soon enough, anyway - this wouldn't hurt for now.

It was moments like this that made what the future held hurt even more.

[georgeweasleyslostearhq]

KISSING YOU IN MY MIND

Pairings: Eddie Munson x Fem! Summary: after your date with Eddie, it gets a little awkward between you. Warnings: mention of drugs

Here is the actual part 2!

Series masterlist here!

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

you kicked a rock as you walked on the side of the road.

your backpack heavier than when you left home with it. it's probably just because you're tied from walking, though

you've been walking for what seems like forever when you hear a car drive slowly behind you.

you kicked the rock again and it tumbled off your path. not bothered to get it back, your turned around when you saw the corner stop beside you.

the window sketchily rolls down and your met with a certain smile that you haven't seen in a while.

"where ya going?" he asked, looking around

"where do you think?" you rolled your eyes.

"well i was gonna offer you a ride but after that comment" he shrugged, pressing on the gas and driving off slowly

you waited a second before catching up to him, making him smirk with his eyes still on the road

without looking over he leaned to the passenger door and opened it.

you got in and shut the door, sighing as you put your bag by your feet.

he started driving, turning down his music.

"so. how come you're walkin' to school?" he asked, looking over at you

"well I'm not walking now, am i?" you question, taking your waterbottle out and drinking a much-needed sip.

you swallowed the cold water and hummed

"I missed the bus" you answered, relaxing in the seat

You lean back against the seat, the cool air from the cracked window swirling in a lazy circle around you. The quiet hum of the engine fills the space, but neither of you seems to know what to say. You can feel the tension in the air thick and unspoken, and it’s like the weight of everything that’s not being said is pressing in on you both.

"so.. haven't seen you all week..ya'avoiding me again?" he asked in a half joking way- that much you could tell by the playful smile of his face, one that didn't quite reach his eyes.

and maybe you had been avoiding him, maybe you had been taking a different route, bearly going to your locker. but you just hadn't realised it until now

"no..no. i've just been...busy" you breathed lightly, playing with your fingers that sat in your lap

"busy" he repeated lowly. not fully believing you.

the old rundown van is the exact same as it was a week prior. the same rubbish littering the dirty floor. you didn't expect anything different. but it gave you a sort of comfort. now that you were familiar with his space. it gave you the sense that you knew him- really knew him.

The road stretches out before you, the occasional car passing by, the sound of tires on asphalt blending into the low volume of the radio that’s still playing in the background. He glances over at you, just a quick peek, like he’s making sure you’re still there. But it’s more than that—his eyes linger for a fraction of a second longer than usual, before he shifts his gaze back to the road.

You stare straight ahead, pretending you didn’t notice, but your pulse quickens anyway. There’s something about the way he doesn’t look at you anymore, but you feel like he’s aware of every little thing you’re doing, like your presence is too loud, too obvious, too close.

"Think we'll make it to class on time?" The question slips out before you can stop it, and as soon as you say it, you wish you could take it back. It sounds too light, too casual, like you’re trying to cover up the space between you that’s suddenly too big to ignore.

He looks over at you again, that same quick glance, but this time he doesn’t hide the small smile that tugs at the corner of his lips. It's a fleeting thing, barely there, but it makes your heart skip a beat. You want to smile back, but it feels wrong, like you’d be playing a part in something neither of you is ready to admit.

"we'll make it," he says, and the calmness in his voice catches you off guard. Like he knows the answer before you even asked it, like he knows you’ll be fine, even though everything feels a little off right now.

You nod, but the motion feels robotic, too forced, like you're just going through the motions without really thinking about it. There’s something about the way his hands move on the wheel, tapping in time with the rhythm of the song playing, that makes you wonder if he’s just as lost in his thoughts as you are. Or maybe he’s trying to ignore the fact that this, whatever this is, is just as awkward as it feels.

The silence falls back over you both. It’s not comfortable, but it’s not unbearable either. It’s just... there, like a quiet third presence in the car. You try to focus on the road, the trees passing by, anything that will distract you from the nagging feeling that you’re both avoiding something you can’t quite put your finger on.

When you get closer to the school, the moment shifts again. The buildings are visible now, looming ahead like a reminder that all this—this weird, half-formed connection between you two—has to end soon. The thought of it feels too sudden, too soon, and you catch yourself wishing the ride would last just a little longer.

He slows the car, turning into the parking lot, and parks a little too far from the entrance. You both sit there for a second, neither of you moving. It’s like you’re both waiting for the other to do something. You can’t tell if you’re waiting for him to say something or if you’re just stalling because you don’t know how to break the strange quiet that’s settled between you.

"Thanks for the ride," you finally manage, your voice sounding a little too stiff, like you’re trying to make it sound casual even though the words feel foreign on your tongue.

You glance at him, but his face is already turned forward, hands still resting on the wheel.

"No problem," he says, his tone almost too easy, like he’s slipping back into that comfortable version of himself that doesn’t have to acknowledge whatever this is between you two.

He opens the door, stepping out quickly, and you follow suit, grabbing your bag and slinging it over your shoulder.

You both stand there for a second, a few feet apart, but neither of you makes the move to walk toward the school. The silence is loud now, unbearable even, and you feel the tension between you, thick and tight in the air. Your eyes wander for a moment, trying to find something to focus on, but your gaze inevitably falls back to him.

He’s standing there, shoulders slightly hunched, like he’s unsure of what to do next. It’s almost like you’re both waiting for the other to break, to do something that might make this feel less strange, less heavy.

He glances at you, a quick look, before he shifts his weight and starts walking toward the building. You follow, the distance between you growing, but it feels like it’s not enough. Like there’s something unspoken that’s just hanging there, waiting for either of you to pick it up.

You reach the school entrance, and for a moment, you both stop, standing just outside the door. You’re not sure why, but you look over at him one last time, and there it is- the same look, the same hesitation in his eyes, like he’s caught between two things he doesn’t know how to handle. And then, just as quickly, he turns and steps inside, leaving you standing there for just a moment longer.

You walk in after him, but the weight of the unspoken words lingers in the air, and you can’t shake the feeling that something’s changed. Something’s shifted between the two of you, and you’re not sure what it is yet, but you’re certain it’s something that’s not going away anytime soon.

And the question you’re left with as you step into the crowded halls is simple: What would it feel like if you weren’t walking away from each other at all?

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Eddie couldn't get you out of his mind, ever since he dropped you off at your house after your 'date' and he realised he wanted to kiss you, you're all he can think about.

it's strange, he doesn't know what to think of it. he's never thought of any girl like that, the last time he thought about kissing a girl was when he was 14 watching Brooke Shields in the blue lagoon. but that ship sailed long ago.

but this was different, you were real, right in front of him, being nice.

he's felt weird all week. not knowing what to do. he's felt like you've made it obvious, laying it out on the table. you had so many options of teddies to choose from but you choose the one he has a tattoo of, that you've complimented?

but he was overthinking it, right? you had just thought it was the best choice? he would have chosen it before

he thought maybe things could be different now, that it would be better but after not seeing you for a week, and him so desperately wanting to, he thought maybe you didn't want the same

which makes sense. you told him all the date was, was pity, you felt bad for him.

that was it.

that's all it was, and all it will be.

but he doesn't like you, it was just the moment, he was tired, and you totally weren't looking at his lips when you left his van that night.

it didn't happen.

he needs to get a hold of himself

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

"are you going to the party on saturday?" you voice echoed in his ears when you leaned against your locker, looking right at him as he rummaged through it, slyly making sure he had enough for the deal he's about to make in 10 or so minutes

he turned to you, a slight frown on covering his features.

he looked around to see a few people in the hallway and he opened his mouth to say something before stopping himself when he looked back at you

you didn't even try to make yourself look busy in your locker like you usually did. you weren't being quiet when talking to him like you usually did.

your eyebrows raised expectently before you spoke up again

"sorry.. didn't mean to catch you at a bad time, s'just wondering if it's a real party or a lame one"

were you asking him to go?

his puzzle look made you laugh softly

"are you coming to sell at the party?" you said again, making it more simple because clearly his brain wasn't processing, and to be honest, his eyes looked a little blown out and darker than usual, was he high?

he nodded quickly "uh i uh- i don't know yet, probably, need the money"

"good, i need something to make me relax, are you alright?" you asked, noticing his excessive blinking

"Yeah," he said plainly.

the word stretched too thin to feel convincing. His smile didn’t quite reach his eyes, and you couldn’t tell if he was just distracted or trying to get you to drop it. Either way, the air between you felt heavier now, like something invisible was hanging in the space where words should’ve been.

You shifted your weight, leaning back against the cold metal of your locker, and studied him for a moment. His hands were still in his locker, rummaging through whatever he was keeping stashed in there, but they didn’t seem to be moving with any real purpose. It was more like he was just keeping them busy. Avoiding something.

"You sure?" you asked again, softer this time. There wasn’t any teasing in your voice now, just a quiet curiosity that you couldn’t quite keep out.

He froze for a second, his shoulders stiffening almost imperceptibly before he pulled his hands out of the locker and shut it with a sharp click.

His head tilted, and he gave you another one of those smiles that didn’t feel real- more like a placeholder than anything else.

"Yeah, I’m good," he said, like he was trying to convince himself just as much as you.

You nodded, but the furrow in your brow stayed. You weren’t sure why it bothered you so much, why he seemed so off, or why you felt the need to press the matter, but it did.

He didn’t meet your eyes this time, and something about that stung more than you cared to admit.

"Okay," you said, drawing the word out slowly, like you weren’t sure if you believed him or not.

"Just... don’t overdo it, alright?"

he frowned "Overdo what?" he asked, his tone light, almost playful, but there was an edge to it. Like he was trying to steer the conversation away from whatever it was that had you asking in the first place.

"the drugs" you wanted to say, but you didn't.

You shrugged, feigning nonchalance. "Whatever it is that’s got you all..." You waved a hand vaguely in his direction, searching for the right word but not finding one. "...weird."

weird? what a new word he's never been called. but how is he supposed to act 'normal' when all he can focus on is the curve of your lips when you're talking to him, wishing he could feel them, wishing they were on his in what is a beautiful kiss.

but, alas,

he has to be weird.

trust me, i won't overdo wanting to kiss you Eddie thought to himself

His lips twitched, and for a moment, you thought he might actually laugh, but then the look in his eyes shifted again- softened, almost, and he let out a small sigh instead.

"I am weird," he said, quieter this time, like he was trying to reassure you without drawing too much attention to it.

You wanted to believe him. You really did. But something about the way he was looking at you now, like he was holding back a dozen things he didn’t know how to say, made it hard to let it go.

Still, you nodded, pushing yourself off your locker. "Alright,"

You stepped back to give him a little more space and looked down at the polished floor again

"I'll see you at the party then...or not...bye" You trailed off, suddenly feeling self-conscious about how much you were saying.

His eyes flicked to yours, just for a second, and then he nodded. "Yeah," he said simply.

You lingered for a moment longer, waiting for something, anything, but when he didn’t say anything else, you turned and started walking down the hallway. The sound of your footsteps echoed faintly behind you, and you wondered if he was watching you leave.

You didn’t look back to find out. But as you turned the corner, you caught yourself wishing you had.

and still wondering why, in that weird little head of yours, you still pictured kissing those plush pink lips of his.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

this on'es a bit shortwe because i had no ideas on what to do, but i have the next few PERFECTLY PLANNED OUT

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

also thank you for all the support on the first two, hope you like this one!

Taglist:

@exploding-bonbon @xlostitx @pupwrites @carolineesnell @foreveranexpatsposts @itsmadamehydra @thedoubleexposurephotography @g3n3zshack @dontputyourfckingdrinkonmytable @emxxblog @nubedeoctubreval @bimboshaggy @sheneedsrocknroll92

sorry it didn't let me tag a couple of you!

but reply if you want to be on the taglist!

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

[squibsformers]

Feral Fears pt. 2

Transformers x Human

18+

In which the human finds their fangs.

Prev

It took the human… two hours? Maybe? Before they got curious.

And when they got curious, things became dangerous.

They had stolen wire from whoever owned this ship- probably more fuckass robots, knowing their luck. They used it to make rope. lots and lots of rope. Some remained wound and bound up in their makeshift pack, and then more was used to make a way down- one time only, most likely, so they tossed extra out of the hole to store for later.

Then, they went up, not down.

It took work, a lot of hissing and cursing, but they clambered up out of the crate and looked around, squinting. Maybe if they were lucky…

Aha. They scrambled across several crates before getting to one marked with red and white. Even they could figure it out.

Medical supplies.

It took a lot of effort to climb onto the package, more still to pop the case open, but when they did… they couldn't help the delight that shot through them, despite the ache in their arm.

Sharps.

Oh, the little human stomped their feet in delight. Eagerly, they rummaged through, grabbing a few different items. A scalpel, extra blades, some tape and some soft cloths they could use as a blanket or make into something else. Syringe? Yoinked that needle. Some sort of small plastic case full of drill bits? They took a few bits, dumped the rest out into the crate and took the door-sized case. Storage, drill bits were always good, all they needed now was-

AHA.

Containers.

They bundled up all their goodies, the empty plastic test tubes would make for good water storage- a rare find, not difficult though on a ship. Once everything was secured, they made a sling to hold the spear-sized scalpel, packed a bunch of bits and bobs away in the small plastic case, and began abseiling down the side of the crate.

Probably should have tried closing the medkit back up, but they didn't care enough to do so. Fuck these stupid robots, these ones were probably just as bad as the others. Giant, metal monsters, with insatiable appetites for violence and humiliating others.

…They shook their head and kept on going, yanking the wire they used to rappel down and finally dislodged it, bundling it back up and making a run for the nearest wall. Their arm felt like there were two little discs of aching lava lodged in it, but didn't want to dwell on it. They had to hurry.

Come on, come on, they had to find it, they had to find one so they could hide and- BINGO! One ventilation shaft, right on time.

The little human unscrewed some bolts, tossed their junk in and soon followed behind, pushing and pulling their haul along. Dips, turns, sheer wall of metal they used some magnets they had in their pack to get up… There was (hopefully) a machine in this ship like the other had, one that let out water vapor and drifted it up to a dehumidifier that they could use as a water source…

They would be in here for a while, and they would set up a good little base, and be millions of lightyears from those other bastards. Everything would be fine. They would be fine. Everything was fine now.

….Their busted arm hurt so bad…

Once they found a good base camp location, they would be making sure to wrap and brace it as best they could. They were no medic but, well. The little human was sure as hell not about to stroll up to one of THOSE things, asking for help. Those metal demons…

_______

Oddities followed the Lost Light like a plague in the cycles after they took off from the outpost. Which was normal but…you know.

It was truly no one's fault, everyone that was a passenger aboard had long since accepted the fate. Glitch mice plague? Seen it. Spark Eaters? Dealt with it. Spontaneous hallway brawls?? Ultra Magnus had started making some incident reports ahead of time that he just had to fill in some blanks to save time.

Rodimus…was staring at the storage hold, arms crossed.

“So…we have a thief…?”

“It's pretty likely, Rodimus.” Ratchet grumbled, digging through the medical supply box and sorting while looking at the order he had placed. “That, or the outpost ripped us off. Half of my supplies are missing.” Snarling, he threw a damaged laser scalpel to the ground. “This is a load of slag! What in the pit am I to do with half my order missing- that fabric tape was important for staunching flows in coolant lines!!”

“Frag…” He grumbled, hand on his chin. He looked over to Perceptor, the mech studying the hole in the crate. “Do you think that it was that shady mech with the grey stripes who loaded us?”

The sniper hummed, zooming in on some of the discarded and scattered blades. “Maybe… or perhaps we have a stowaway?” He murmured. “Look at these marks. They're kind of oily, and look like..silicone or rubber digit pads. Very small, but-”

“Dude, I can't see what you're talking about.”

Perceptor huffs.

“I think what we have is someone who snuck aboard. The reason why is anyone's guess, but, taking into account the amount of sharp items that have been taken…”

Rodimus felt a chill slink down his backstruts, glancing over at Ultra Magnus. “...a potential assassin…?”

“Sounds like it…” He grumbled. “The question now is who the target is…. as well as where they vanished off to.”

Perceptor had moved to scouring over the crate, trying to see what he could discover as Ratchet clutched the medical supplies closer, uneasy at what was being said.

“Okay. This stays between us here and those in the security detail.” Rodimus points at Perceptor. “That means no Brainstorm.” He turned, pointing to Ratchet, who looked a bit cross. “And no Drift.”

“You say that as if Brainstorm would focus on something like this.”

“Prime, you're going to end up telling him anyway.”

“I know. But I wanna tell him. Not you.”

“Whoever this was is around the size of a Minibot.”

That caught Magnus's attention, the enforcer looking back over. “Are you certain?”

“Very. It's the only way they could squeeze through a hole this size, though, their plating would catch for sure…” Perceptor slowly stood, tracing a warbling path with a laser pointer before having it end right at the vents. Narrow, but some minis could stand upright in parts of the passages…. “Small, flexible, and doesn't want to be found.”

Rodimus's optics narrow. “Get the smallest security drones to do sweeps through the vents. We're flushing this cyber-rat out.”

________

Next NA

[skippingstonez]

Sickly Snuggles

(Legend x Fem!Reader)

It had been a quiet morning.

After two days of sporadic rain everyone was inclined to get to the stable as soon as possible.

The storm had left a muddy path that clung to their boots and forced them into a slower pace. Mixed with the dropping temperature that left a merely uncomfortable chill in the air. They wouldnt of been surprised if ice lay beneath the layer of muck.

Wild had assured them that it never snowed on this side of the ravine but with their luck everyone remained skeptical.

Legend had settled at the back of the group, opting not to participate in any idle chit chat or shenanigans the others would come up with as they walked. Observing the others had become entertainment in itself and truthfully it let him pick up on things that the others might not be aware of.

Legend always believed you could learn a lot about a person by how they traveled and his companions were no different. Take Sky for example. When he's frustrated, his steps are heavier and more prominent. As if hes walking with a distinct purpose. Or how when Four has a headache he quickens his pace while simultaneously shortening his stride so it's more of a shuffle. Twilight fiddles with Epona's reigns when he's sleepy and Wars will start mumbling the most random facts when he's hungry.

From his spot, Legend looked over to Hyrule, taking in the way his arms swung at his side. The kid is clearly restless and Legend just hopes he won't go wandering off and get lost until after lunch. Just ahead of him was Four, and (Y/N).

His attention snagged on you.

The way you walk is most similar to the Captain’s. With arms close to your sides with little to no extra movement.

But when you're tired? Your damn hips give it away every time. After long days or a particularly rough battle Legend can see them swaying from side to side. The more exhausted you are, the more they sway like a hypnotizing pendulum.

Just like they were now.

In fact, the longer he stared (not that he was staring) the more differences he noticed. Your arms were crossed in front, fingers digging into the sleeves of your tunic. The tilt of your neck looked strained and uncomfortable with your head practically resting on your own shoulder.

Surely there was a reason for it right? He looked to the others, finding them all wrapped up in other conversations.

Has no one noticed?

Legend focused even harder, trying to figure out what caused this odd change. You had nearly passed out with Sky before Wild had even finished making dinner last night, and it was still early in the day so it didn't make sense to be this tired already. Maybe you were injured? Monsters had been scarce lately, and the ones they had faced had been easily dispatched of. Everything has seemed normal. Well, maybe normal wasn't the right word but rather nothing had been abnormal?

He squinted his eyes in concentration.

“Everything alright Vet?”

Legend barely spared Twilight a glance. “Does… does (Y/N) seem alright to you?” He whispered. He didn't want to worry anyone unnecessarily but there was just something that was eating at him.

Twilight glanced over, considering his question. “She does seem a bit off now that you mention it. I can go check on her.”

“It's fine, I'll do it.” Legend said, quickly stopping him.

He quickened his pace just enough to pass through the group without drawing too much attention. You were closer to Wars now which was a pain if he wanted to be discreet but he inched his way around the Captain so that it looked as if he was simply walking towards Hyrule.

He glanced back over his shoulder and mentally slapped himself for not thinking of it sooner.

Your eyes were barely open, fluttering open just long enough to keep you from running into someone. Your face was pale and scrunched up in a twisted expression.

He stepped beside you, tapping your shoulder with a single finger. “(Y/N)?”

Your posture quickly straightened, stumbling slightly as you rubbed at your eyes. You looked like death. Your lips were pressed into a thin line to hide their quivering despite the sweat beading down your temples.

“For Din’s sake. Why didn't you tell anyone you aren't feeling good?”

“m’fine…” you mumbled, swatting his hand away. You attempted to keep walking, though you swayed enough to bump into him.

He grabbed onto you, keeping you from passing out where you stood. Your head immediately flopped onto his shoulder. Leaning against him with a heavy groan. He hadn't even realized he stopped walking until he heard someone call for the others to stop.

“Everything alright?” Time asked as everyone gathered around.

Legend could already feel the heat radiating off of you but he placed the back of his hand on your forehead anyway. “She’s definitely got a fever,”

“She's sick?”

“She seemed fine this morning!”

Legend felt your knees buckle slightly as you rested more of your weight against him. He put his arm around your waist and pulled you closer for better support.

“Do we need to stop?”

“Wild how far till the stable?”

Wild looked at his slate “2 hours? Maybe 3?”

Time stepped up, placing the back of his hand on her forehead as well. “It would be preferable to rest at the stable in case the weather takes a turn again,” He mused.

“They're barely conscious let alone in any condition to hike through Wild's era for 3 more hours” Legend remarked, noticing how unsteady your breathing was getting.

“I can carry ‘em if it'll help,” Sky offered, already stepping closer and holding out his arms.

If Legend tightened his grip on you just a bit no one seemed to notice.

“No offense Sky but I don't think you're the best one to carry someone for that long.” Twilight teased and Sky rolled his eyes.

“Plus your immune system is shit. You'll probably catch whatever it is they have, " Legend added.

“Oh come on guys I'm not that bad!” Everyone gave him an unimpressed look and Sky sighed in defeat.

“I'll do it” Captain said in a tone that suggested that this solution was obvious. He stepped forward and reached for your arm but you immediately squirmed and pushed him away. Trying again, he huffed in annoyance at the way you flung your arm to avoid his grasp.

The others snickered as Twilight came up, patting Wars shoulder almost sympathetically before he swooped his hand under your arm.

“Ow! (Y/N) what the heck!?” Twilight quickly stepped away, rubbing his shin that you had kicked.

You curled into Legend who was trying not to show how smug he felt at your blatant rejection towards anyone carrying you.

“I'll do it,” Legend said, trying to sound calm and unaffected.

“You sure? We can always-”

“It's fine, I've already got them anyway. It's just till we get to the stables right? So let's just get going.” Legend passed Wild your stuff to store before handing his sword and shield to Hyrule. Then shifted around until his back was to you.

You mumbled a small protest but weakly wrapped your arms around his neck as he bent down and picked you up. With his hands securely under your knees he took a few steps to make sure neither of you would fall.

“Alright let's keep moving.”

———

Legend was prepared to be exhausted by the time they got to the stable. He knew he'd likely be a bit more sore as well. But he was willing to put up with it. Even if it was a downright pain for him, at least he could mentally prepare himself now for what would likely be a rather long night later on.

What he hadn't been prepared for though was the constant battle to keep his goddess damned emotions in check.

Soon after they had started walking again your head had rested on his shoulder. He had obviously anticipated that considering you could barely hold it up a moment ago.

But then your arms would wrap tighter around him. Not enough to hurt or make him uncomfortable, but just enough to grab his whole attention before then relaxing.

Meanwhile your nose would brush along the length of his shoulder. Trying to bury your face further into his tunic with a soft whine that tugged at his heart.

At first he tried to ignore it. You were simply trying to get more comfortable so you could at least try to rest.

Ignoring it only went so far though as the further they walked the more often you would do this.

It was driving him crazy.

Each time, you clung to him tighter, nuzzling your face deeper into the crook of his neck so your hair tickled against his jaw line. Occasionally the collar of his tunic would get shifted, allowing the tip of your nose to brush against the skin of his neck. A warm shiver raced up his spine at the feeling, settling in his chest before he would quickly readjust. Shoving away the warmth in an attempt to try and stay unbothered.

Unfortunately for Legend, he found himself beginning to lean into it. Giving your legs a small, reassuring squeeze whenever you pressed into his neck.

Letting the warm feeling linger just a little longer before trying to convince himself to push it away. You were sick. Obviously you weren't being entirely yourself at the moment. It's not like you were trying to be so stupidly adorable.

Almost selfishly, the next time he had to reach up to adjust the collar of his tunic, he loosened it so that the fabric could fall away from his neck.

Just as he had hoped, the fabric was quickly replaced with your face nuzzling into the now more exposed skin.

He had to take multiple deep breaths to try and regulate his own heart beat, afraid that you could hear it pounding against his chest.

Almost as if you realized what you were doing, you pulled away with a mumbled apology.

“I-It's fine” he was quick to respond, hoping you wouldn't pull away from him more. “Tell me if you start feeling worse, yeah?”

He felt you nod slightly before your face returned to where it had been. With a small sigh of relief, he laid his own head on top of yours for a moment.

A content hum reached his ears, making him smile softly as you finally seemed to settle and eventually fell asleep.

———

Two hours of walking later and the stable was nowhere in sight. Wild had assured them that it was close by but Legend wasn't hopeful. You have been in and out of consciousness, though currently seemed to be passed out again.

It did little to help ease the worry Legend felt.

You was alarmingly hot and he knew it needed to be treated soon before it became dangerous.

You groaned softly, lifting your head from his shoulder. “L-link?” you whispered in his ear

He craned his neck to look at you. Your skin was a ghostly white with eyes an irritated red.

“I..I don't..feel good..”

Legend sighed “Wild says we're almost at the stable. Can you hang on just a little longer?”

You closed your eyes, shaking your head before simply putting it back down “im sorry..”

The second he heard your voice sound so defeated he stepped closer to Time. “We need to stop. They've gotten worse.”

Time reached out his hand to your forehead and immediately called for everyone to stop.

He slipped his arms under yours and peeled you off Legend's back as everyone gathered around.

Time gently laid you down as the Captain hovered over you.

“(Y/N)? Shit, they're burning up. We gotta cool them down.”

Legend quickly grabbed his bag from Hyrule and pulled out his ice rod. “Here, use this!”

He handed it over but quickly snatched it back when Wars sent ice shards flying out of it.

“We need to cool them down, not literally freeze them! Ugh, here. Sky, can I borrow the cape?”

He nodded and quickly handed over the sailcloth. Legend folded it a few times before touching the ice rod to it. When the cloth was sufficiently cool he placed it under your head.

“Alright, Vet make sure it stays cool. Champion, got any medicine in that thing of yours?”

Wild looked at his slate “No but I could probably make something!”

“Good enough, smithy go help him. Rancher and Sky, why don't you go find a better place to set up camp. Rest of us will stay here and keep an eye on things.”

Sky and Twilight walked off while Four followed after Wild. Legend sat on the ground and was soon joined by Hyrule.

“Here, drink some water. We don't need you getting sick too.” Legend rolled his eyes but took the water and downed a few gulps.

A shiver ran through you and Legend was quick to notice.

Reaching into his bag he pulled out his blanket and draped it over you.

You opened your eyes, which seemed foggy and confused.

Hyrule reached out his hand, gently brushing hair away from your face. “Hey, you doing alright?”

You looked at Hyrule, and then at Legend before tears formed in your eyes and slowly shook your head. Hyrule couldn't help but smirk at how quickly Legend reacted to the tears.

In a split second he had pulled you onto his lap. Letting you rest against his chest with your head once again on his shoulder.

“I'm sorry…”

“Don't be. Everyone gets sick.” he whispered. Running his hand up and down your back.

Hyrule leaned over and gently dropped the cold cloth on the back of your neck.

“Thanks” Legend mumbled.

Hyrule didn't respond but Legend still noticed the way his successor was eyeing him. “What?”

“Nothing~”

Legend just raised an eyebrow but Hyrule matched it. Thankfully that's when Wild came over, bottle in hand.

“Here, this should help bring the fever down.”

Hyrule took the bottle and Legend helped you sit up. Hyrule lifted it to your mouth and tilted it as you took a few sips.

The fever didn't disappear instantly but if anything you already seemed to be a bit more comfortable, curling back into Legend.

He combed his fingers through your hair as Hyrule helped make sure the cloth was sufficiently cool. They stayed like that for a while until Twilight came back into view.

“Hey! We found a place for camp. Sky's already started setting up.” Twilight said, kneeling down. “How're they doing?”

“We just gave them some medicine so hopefully the fever will break soon but they really should get some actual rest.”

“Agreed. Alright (Y/N), you heard him.” Twilight gently pulls you away from Legend and scoops you up. “Let's get you some rest.”

Twilight started walking away, leaving the others to follow after him.

The spot they had found wasn't far and before long everyone settled down. Wars and Four were watching over you, while the others trying to find something to do.

Legend sat on the other side of their camp. Trying to finally get his feelings under control.

Hyrule came up and sat down next to him. An unnatural smile on his face that Legend was quick to pick up on.

He glared at Hyrule. Waiting for him to say something but was only met with a tense silence.

“Do you need something or are you just gonna sit there being creepy?”

Hyrule was quiet for a moment. Looking Legend up and down.

“Your tunics undone” Hyrule snarked.

Legend's hand shot up. Quickly tieing the collar closed as he pointedly avoided Hyrule's smirk.

“You sure seemed to be enjoying yourself” Hyrule chuckled at the red that spread on his predecessor's face.

“I don't know what you're talking about.”

“Seriously?” Hyrule deadpans. “It's okay if-”

“Don't. They're sick. That's it.”

Hyrule rolled his eyes but didn't press further. Maybe one day the two would realize what the others already had. Unfortunately for everyone else though it looked like today would not be that day.

[yanderes-galore]

Fandom: HOTD

Character: Cregan Stark

Pairing: Romantic

Type of fic: Concept

Extra info: I haven't had the opportunity to watch the finale yet so I hope my man got more screen time other than 3 minutes...

But other than that! Darling could be from wherever you want, you're free to do whatever. I'm just starving for more Cregan content to be honest 🙏🙏

- 🥝 anon

More screen time? That aged well... Anyways! Sure, I'll try my best. Using ASOIAF wiki to help me!

❗️Spoilers For HOTD/Fire and Blood Ahead❗️

Yandere! Cregan Stark Concept

Pairing: Romantic

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Obsession, Possessive/Protective, Manipulation, Controlling behavior, Forced marriage/Courting, Mature themes, Violence, Blood, Isolation, Dubious relationship.

The first idea I thought of for Cregan is him with a Targaryen.

Cregan himself is not very involved in the Dance.

He takes pretty much the entirety of the war to gather forces since the North is so vast.

However, that does not stop him from toppling The Greens in areas other than King's Landing.

This concept is going to be a tweaked version of canon where you're a Targaryen on the side of The Blacks.

Your mother is Rhaenyra and you're helping your brothers gain forces to your side.

Now this could go one of two ways.

You arrive in Winterfell with Jacaerys to speak with Cregan... or you go alone.

Regardless of which occurs, you are tasked to convince Cregan to join The Blacks.

Despite being a skilled dragon rider, the winter chill nips at your skin as you land your dragon.

You had come to negotiate, to give whatever you could to get Cregan to aid your mother.

Although... You end up giving a lot more than you bargained for the longer you stay in Winterfell.

Like most Stark lords, Cregan is an intimidating fellow.

He has had a lover before, in fact he's older than you by at least a few years despite you both being around your twenties.

Yet the difference in age is small and you're able to get along rather well with the lord.

Despite being relatively cold to most, Cregan is ironically rather warm with your presence.

You had learned his past love had died in childbirth, leaving him with a young son.

You even take the time to learn more of Stark traditions.

Winterfell is land much different than your own home.

It's cold compared to Dragonstone, your dragon rather antsy about the change in climate.

You were invited to stay a week or two at Winterfell's castle.

Of course you agree, after all the Stark's support is needed for your mother.

Your time spent in Winterfell is used to get to know lord Cregan Stark.

You drink, hunt, train... Your time there includes a large amount of culture training.

The same thing happens if you went with your brother.

Cregan's form of bonding with you is definitely Stark in nature.

The drinks in Winterfell are much different than home.

They primarily drink ale, yet Cregan was able to get his hands on some Dornish wine if that was better for you.

You just took the ale most of the time, wanting to be on good terms.

Hunting was another activity.

Cregan primarily hunted with Jacaerys if he went with you.

However, there's times you get to hunt with the Stark lord.

Cregan was surprisingly cautious of you while hunting.

For the first few days it was most likely due to him not wanting a Targaryen heir to be injured.

However, over time it seems his intentions towards you changed.

The same thing occurs with training.

Cregan carefully observes what you're capable of before showing you ways to hone your skills.

After all, you're a dragon rider, you're used to the skies.

Yet he teaches you how to properly use a sword.

As your visit progresses, you make some good progress with getting to know the lord.

Cregan himself appears fond of you, often greeting you himself every morning to invite you on yet another expedition or meal together.

Unbeknownst to you, Cregan's intentions for you aren't just to be loyal to your mother.

No, the longer you are in Winterfell, the more Cregan ends up falling for you.

You're a strong and fierce dragon warrior.

Having a Targaryen in his family can be a useful thing, he's reminded of that each time he sees your dragon hidden from the biting cold.

Although, not only are you useful...

But he also finds himself falling for you genuinely.

His obsession develops as the days pass.

By the end of your visit, you and Cregan are close.

He makes sure your hospitality is perfect, that you are respected.

If anyone has problems with you, Cregan will remind himself to have them judged (and possibly executed).

Cregan sees you as his dragon and himself as your wolf.

He's smitten by the time your visit ends, eyes unable to part from you.

Of course Cregan plans to pledge loyalty to your family.

Yet he's not doing it for your brother, your mother, or the throne.

He's doing it for you.

The Pact of Ice and Fire occurs differently in this scenario.

Instead of asking to marry Jace's first born daughter to his son... He asks Jace or you something different.

In return for his loyalty to the throne, he wants to marry you.

The deal comes across as a surprise at first.

Granted, you were not betrothed yet, but even if you were it probably wouldn't stop Cregan.

The wolf has spotted what he wants...

He plans to have you one way or another.

Determined to win the Starks for your mother, you take a deep breath and agree to Cregan's proposal.

In return for Cregan's northern men, you will be his betrothed.

Your compliance brings a smile to Cregan's face, good...

That wasn't so hard, was it?

Cregan, while cold to most, is not cruel to his dragon.

The wedding ceremony hasn't even occurred yet but Cregan already plans on arranging you to stay at Winterfell.

You try to tell him to wait, but your new husband doesn't listen.

He's a stern man, shutting you down when you try to reason.

You tell him you'll get married after the war, that you and your dragon are needed in Dragonstone.

Cregan ignores such a thought.

He tells you it will take around two years to rally the needed men.

Until this... He considers marrying you earlier.

Cregan does not want his dragon to fight in the war.

He may not show it, but he fears losing you.

You try to tell him that your dragon is not used to the colder climate.

In response he tells you to dismiss the large flying lizard, telling you to stay here.

Your dragon will return when it is needed.

You, however, are to stay in Winterfell until you're both married... and afterwards.

Cregan does not listen to anyone on this matter.

While he has men sought out to aid your mother, he sends a raven (or Jace), to tell your mother of your bargain.

Meanwhile, back with you, Cregan kisses your soft skin, telling you he'll be a good man to you.

If anyone tries to tell him your need to go back to Dragonstone, Cregan responds harshly.

He does not hesitate to have someone cut down for not agreeing with him.

You are his betrothed, his beloved dragon.

Disagreements often end with a bloody sword and his grip on you tightening.

Cregan is surprisingly affectionate, kissing your lips and skin.

He calls you all sorts of affectionate nicknames, holding you close.

He doesn't share chambers with you until you're officially married.

Once you are.. You learn just how possessive the wolf can be.

You're married a month or two after meeting the Stark.

Your wedding night comes with sharing his bed....

Your mother tells you your dragon is needed.

Yet you respond saying Cregan Stark refuses to let you battle.

You don't properly see your mother again once Cregan takes you as his own.

Even when your mother asks to meet with Cregan, the winter wolf is against it.

Truth is I can see Cregan keeping you at Winterfell until the war ends.

Both Rhaenyra and Aegon II perish, along with your siblings.

You are one of the only remaining Targaryens other than your younger brother Aegon.

It's only then that Cregan allows you to come with him to King's Landing.

You're devastated at the fact you lost your family, survivor's guilt creeping in.

Cregan allows you to reunite with your younger brother and soon even becomes Hand.

During his time in King's Landing, you are allowed to stay beside him.

Yet he tells you once he is no longer needed, you will be coming back to Winterfell.

Part of you does love your husband... He's trying to protect you.

Despite that, you resent him for forcing you to stay back.

But... His winter men did indeed help claim territory for the blacks....

In a way, you guessed this was your purpose.

If you are capable of having children, you most likely have a young babe with him... maybe another on the way....

Regardless, Cregan keeps you close, the wolf watchful of his dragon.

One could argue his possessive behavior saved you...

You still hate it.

It's ironic, dragons are meant to be stronger than wolves.

Yet here you are, leashed to your loyal hound... bare able to mourn your family.

Cregan reassures you this would've happened anyways.

You should be happy he kept you safe....

You may have Targaryen blood... but to him, you're a Stark now.

He's your family now...

Whoever tries to go against this will meet the end of his sword, their blood staining the snow as you're forced to be good for your husband.

[wisteria-lodge]

some worldbuilding notes for a hypothetical american magical school in the harry potter universe

Since I feel especially annoyed about ilvermorny today

Okay. So a fairly important difference between England (& Europe) and the Americas is that North/South America is really, really big. Population groups can be a LOT more spread out, which is important. If you’re going to give me a statistic like “one in every 10,000 people is a wizard” well, that means that early on, you’re statistically not going to know any magical people outside of your (presumably mostly magical) family, or like… rumors of A magic guy a hundred miles away, who you then track down and apprentice with. 

In order to get away from the model of “my parents teach me magic” or “I am one of three apprentices of this one magic guy”... then you’re going to need a population center. The biggest pre-Columbian population centers that we know of are Teotihuacan (which seems to have fallen apart circa 750) and Cahokia (which seems to have fallen in the late 1300s.) We know almost nothing about the people who originally built these cities, we don’t even know these cities' original *names.* So that makes me think - hidden city. Make both of these magical cities, and then go very El Dorado with it. Streets paved with gold, etc. I could see an American magical *school* located in either (or both) of these. And they’d very quickly become sister schools anyway, considering how easy teleportation is in this universe. 

I actually think it’s kind of cool if the American wizards split away from the muggles EARLIER than their European counterparts. Maybe a seer saw destruction ahead, and the thought was - well, we better protect the kids. The first Europeans over in the Americas were the (very religious) Spanish (and Portuguese.) Considering that when Columbus showed up, they were smack-dab in the middle of the Spanish Inquisition… fairly famously concerned with locating and killing witches… yeah, I’ll believe that the magic community of America just decided they didn’t want to deal with that. I could absolutely see the American wizard community becoming really, really isolationist. Which MEANS that their architecture/clothing/style of magic would be completely its own thing. You could pull design references from the Mayans, Aztecs, Navajo, Iroquois, Chocktaw, Cherokee (just to name a few)… like, it would be so cool looking. 

I also think that if the split happened this way, the wizards probably would have taken the non-magical inhabitants of the cities *with* them, when they disappeared off the map. I think American wizards are actually pretty cool with muggles… you just have to be able to FIND them, and once you find them you have to be willing to STAY in their magical city. or else they just dump you back outside and memory-charm you so you don’t know how to get back (again, very El Dorado.) If you’re magical and want to leave - explore the world, bring back other magical knowledge - not an issue. But probably (since you’re not the city’s secret-keeper) you’re not *able* to tell anyone where it is. 

I think it’s kind of dark and interesting (and also makes sense with how spread out America is…) that if you’re a magical child, the school summons you almost through compulsion. Like you just wake up one day, and *have* to walk in a certain direction. Magical families would of course know all about this, and either be living in the city already, or escort you there. But if you’re a muggleborn, you just have no idea what’s going on until you show up. I think American wizards have a word for “loyal muggle protector of the wizard child” - because while you can’t STOP the wizard child, you can *follow them,* and find El Dorado that way. And then they just let you stay, if you want. Obscurials would have been more common in America (I imagine you’d be more motivated to repress your magic if you thought you were the ONLY magical person in the world) and this model would have been set up to cut down on the very real threat a rogue obscurial represents. 

(oh, this compulsion magic would absolutely have a range. Like it wears off if you sail too far away from the mainland. so the Caribbean and pacific islands etc would have completely separate magic traditions.)

Animal communication as path to wisdom shows up in a couple early american traditions, so it might be fun to say that basically "familiar" - magical helper/guide animal - is a unique type of American magic. Of course there would absolutely be some sort of cultural stereotype / hierarchy attached to the *type* of animal you favor, because people be people.

Also, I could see them being jussst a little judgy of European wizards, who can so easily become incapacitated/have their magic taken *from* them, just by taking their wand. Maybe American wizards try harder to develop/control wandless childhood magic, or go more for the ritual based/mental stuff, which takes longer to perform/master. And then side eye the rapid-fire magic of the Europeans, which SURE is great for dueling, but like. It's very clearly war magic.

[thatfrailsoul]

– One for the past and one for the future

new year's tarot pick a pile reading ( → 1, 2, 3 )

pictures from pinterest → one, two, three

The new year is already here… Life keeps moving forward, not waiting for us and our doubts, our still unanswered questions about all that we got through to be here right now. New phases, situations, choices and decisions… And yet our focus is nowhere to be found. Our mind is still drowning in all the anxiety, frustration and fear of all the things that didn't work out in the past year. In the things that we weren't able to achieve, all the plans that we were forced to leave… We are stuck, between the past and the future, on that night of the new year's eve, that was too short to really be able to let go of all the old things and be ready to welcome and work on the new ones… We are still waiting for that something, a sign, a word, a specific situation or moment, that can really help us feel like this is indeed it, that the year that felt so neverending, indeed passed by so soon. And that the new one is already here, waiting for us to let it in.

This is our second reading for this new year. But this time… It is also for the past one. It is a message that this world, this life, your guides, want to give you. About all that you got through, all the things that you need to leave behind but are not ready to surrender to. About all that is awaiting for you, that is there in store for you, once you find the courage and strength to turn your gaze on what’s ahead. A message for you, no matter how your year was or how you expect to be this one.

Slow down. Breathe. And put aside for a moment your logic and your overthinking. Follow that pile that attracts your gaze more. And allow it to share with you the message that it holds.

P.s. A little question for you.♡

If you ever were interested in the extended versions of tarot readings, mine or of someone else, if you ever bought them or never felt convinced… How much their price influenced your choice? And, most importantly, based on your personal preference or financial situation, what price would be more comfortable for you to pay if you ever will decide to try one?

(For reference: my extended versions of readings usually include both the original reading and the additional message, for all the three piles. This way you can read the message whenever you want and all of them, in case you chose initially more than one pile. My additional messages lastly, are roughly 1000 words for each pile, but in the future I'm planning on making them longer when possible.)

{ Thank you so much for letting me know!♡ }

– Pile One,

the empress and the hierophant

It took you so long to surrender… To allow life to go on even when it didn't follow your plans and desires, even when it was so frustrating to see it all fall and transform right before your eyes… It took you so long to get used to it, to find something good even in all those failures and challenges, and to be able to let go of frustrations and regrets about how things went. It took you so long… That once you really felt ready to face this year… It was already over. The cold came back, followed by the winter, the new year’s eve, the inevitable looking over of how many of your goals and dreams you were actually able to achieve…

And it did feel a little like a betrayal. From life, from your own self… To have to do so much work within you so you can go through it all and survive, just for it to not leave any space or time to actually live and be present in this life. Just for all that anxiety, stress and struggle to consume all of you and of your days, marking it in your memory as just another difficult phase.

No matter how many hopes you’ve had for this past year too, things still were different. Different from what you wanted. And even different from what you expected and prepared for, almost like this world knew that you would try to make it through either way, and made a few steps ahead… It all came by like a storm. So inevitable, so impossible to control or deal with, so powerful in how much it impacted your life and you, and yet so seemingly fast, not giving you even a second to get used, get ready, to even just realise what was happening in your life. Leaving you still confused like at the beginning of the year. But also so tired, not ready at all to go through it all over again. To plan, to desire something, and risk to go through one failure after another in this new year too.

But what seem like just another “bad” year, with so many mistakes, lessons forced onto you, and opportunities that you never thought you would miss… Is exactly the reason why now, for this new year, you can allow yourself to breathe more easily, have faith more courageously. As all the work that you did in order to deal with that year… Was to prepare you by creating a foundation for your steps in this new one. The one that will truly be your year. A year of chances and changes that you will find or create for yourself exactly thanks to all that you have dealt with.

Because there were so many things that you realised you didn't knew, or didn't have, once you tried to take your first real steps towards your goals and the plans you’ve had. And you were forced to slow down so many times, and even to make some steps back, just to learn more and prepare better. And once it was all ready… You needed so often to come out of your comfort zone to ask directions, to ask for help in finding that right path once again. You felt so often challenged, slowed down, even rejected and pushed back. You were lost, feeling more in the dark with each step you tried to make, no matter how sure you tried to be before making them. And you came back so many times to the very start, to the present moment, to your life and to the way it was... For you they were moments of tiredness and frustration, the ones in which you simply couldn't do anything else than to keep up with the life you had, even if it didn't sit right with your heart… But in reality they all were moments of reflection, of analysis, of understanding if something was truly worth it or not, if it was so important for you to be worthy of trying again even after failing it so many times. They were moments of solitude, but also reconnection to your own self. The ones in which you felt so lonely on your journey, as no one seemed to support, give the same effort or at least understand… And that made you appreciate and admire more your own resilience and courage. Your own faith towards yourself, and the strength that no matter how flebile, but never run out of you and your heart.

All of these things… They were inevitable, each one of those outcomes or frustrating situations. They were needed for you who tried, and that still wants, to make such big changes in your reality and life. The ones that to be done need your confidence in your own self, in the fact that no matter what you can go through it, so you don't give up. And peace with how your life is right now, when it is not so perfect, enjoyable or easy, so you don’t feel stuck in it, but consider it only a place from which you can start.

Now you have them. Now you are ready. And you will feel and see it once you will get back up and try again. You will recognise each gift this past year gave you. Reconsidering the significance of all that happened to you, as you will find yourself using what you learned from them. And transforming your regrets into gratitude. Gratitude for the fact that it happened the way it did, with these steps, these times. That gave you the possibility to do things, perhaps not in your desired way, but for sure in the right one for yourself.

{ ♡ }

– Pile Two,

the four of cups and the two of swords

Let go of any judgment, any fear, any excuse for a moment… And tell me, was it really worth it to spend so much time, this whole year, pursuing something that you never felt yours to begin with? Were all those people satisfied, the ones that gave you so many advices on what’s the best for you? Where those goals that you’ve set together, achieved? And did you learn to appreciate these decisions, situations, journeys that you were lurked in, like you promised as you were pushing yourself into a path that had nothing of what you wanted? Did it really work out in the end? Or did you simply get used to it, perhaps valuing not the journey itself but more all the patience and hard work that you needed in order to go through it? The routines for which you needed so much time to get used to. The people that were so insufferable all around you but that you managed to learn to ignore to. The tasks, the things, that you needed to learn to do from scratch. The doubts that you managed to suffocate deep down. The stress and anxiety that you got so used to that it just became a vague tiredness, a fatigue that never stops overwhelming your body or your mind…

Was it really all worth it? Or are you repeating it to yourself and others just so you don't need to accept the fact that it was all a mistake? A mistake that took so much from you, a whole year of your life, consuming both your heart and your mind. The one that becomes so intricately connected to you, to your reality and all the other aspects of your life, that you just can’t admit that it is not good for you, that it needs to change… Because it would mean to destroy your whole life and to create it from scratch again. Not knowing how much it would take, or what it will need from you… Not knowing even which journey is the right one, if this is not…

But you can’t really lie to your own self. You can ignore the symptoms, the signs, the cries for help that your own subconscious is screaming now… But it won’t change anything, enduring it. It won’t magically one day feel right just because you stick with it for enough time. You will only force yourself to get used to it. And to ignore that frustration and even anger, that you are hiding deep down in yourself, pretending that everything is like it supposed to be, that it is okay, even if it so different from what would make you truly feel satisfied and safe.

Some love to wait for the new year. For a true and real beginning, to give them the reason and motivation to truly start to change. Some do it for the magic, for the cliche of it. Others just to buy time and procrastinate the inevitable facing of the reality. But you… you didn't even think about it. This is how much you forced yourself to adapt to this journey, to these steps and ways that were never supposed to fit you.

But do you really think that this is the only and right way? Are you really, sincerely, sure that you want things to be this way? Because you clearly don’t. Otherwise you wouldn’t constantly distract yourself with other things, hobbies, addictions or matters that, as you say, are more urgent now. Instead, you would've feel more safe and comfortable with your own self. Knowing that you can trust yourself, your honesty, your wish for the best for yourself… You wouldn't feel so uneasy in your own skin, alone with your own thoughts, without the constant presence of someone, some sort of noise or voice that are louder than the one you are trying to keep inside… You would've simply know it, if it was right. And for this reason, now, you know for sure that it is not.

Just trust yourself, okay? Give yourself a chance. Don’t assume that it is a huge mistake, that it won’t work, that you will not find any way out or different opportunities for yourself… Don’t assume it only because it is coming from you, from your judgement and desire, and not the one of someone else who supports you or encourages you with their appreciation, guides you with their experience and judgements…

Believe it or not, but you are good enough too. You too can make the right choices, or manage the unexpected outcomes. You too can find new, interesting or right journeys and projects. You too can make them work. It doesn't matter your age or experience, the area of your life that we are talking about or the things you are currently dealing with… It doesn't matter if others already tried it, failed doing the same, or succeeded only because they had a better situation and base. It doesn't simply matter. How the other journeys and options can be, what they can hold for you in the long run… It doesn’t matter when it is so clear and obvious that what you are dealing with now, what you are forcing yourself to keep up with, is just not good for you, not right, no matter from which perspective you try to look at it, in hopes of finding proofs of the fact that it is better than making a step out.

Give yourself back your freedom. Use your strength. Not to force yourself, but to be courageous enough to change. You need it. You deserve it. Because whatever this is… It is just not the right for you. And you are well aware of it too.

{ ♡ }

– Pile Three,

the nine of cups and the seven of cups

You’ve accomplished so many things this past year. So many lessons that you learned, the mistakes that you didn't regret but used to become better and more confident in your steps… All the hard work that payed of, in one way or another, guiding you up to some of your goals, and helping you to realize that some of them weren’t so right, allowing you to change your path. It was quite a year, truly. And while so many around you say how it felt so fast and rushed… For you it seemed like you were in a different reality where the time slowed down.

And on that night, saying goodbye to the past and welcoming the future… All of you felt so conflicted in letting go of this year… Some because of how little they think that they were able to do. Some because of the fear of this new year passing by so fastly too. But you… You felt reluctant to let go of what you accomplished. Of that sort of balance that you were able to create in your life, resolving some problems, overcoming certain challenges, or simply, recognising the things that didn't deserve your attention and time. You worked so hard for it, only to appreciate them so briefly, as this new year is already giving you new ideas, opportunities and chances to keep up with.

And it is strange, this feeling. On one hand you truly do feel accomplished, satisfied with what you were able to do. So much that it plants in you this seed of enthusiasm and motivation to try even more, to grow more, to accomplish more… But on the other hand it feels so risky, to believe that it can happen once again all so well, that you can have this fortune and circumstances on your side exactly like it happened that time.

So what is worse? To be so fearful of the uncertainty, or running out of lack, of pushing it too much… To the point of remaining exactly where you are, even when it starts to feel a little too tight and calm, gently suffocating you with the idea that it will stay the same for the rest of your life..? Or to be so confident and careless, going for that more even if it means to come down from the solid base you are standing on, perhaps losing the possibility to ever come back on it at all?

Well, actually, it's neither of them. There isn’t any best or worse. Or to be exact, there doesn't need to be a choice. A decision between two lives, the one you have and the one you want. They can coexist for a moment, one leaving slowly some place for the other. The change doesn't need to be so drastic, from one day to another, from having it all to nothing…

No matter the reason behind your desire for more, if it is a sudden realisation that you don't want to stay here forever or don't want to be here ever at all, if you simply accomplished everything you wanted, or contrary your inner peace comes from you surrendering at some point to the idea that you can’t have it all, but now you are feeling more hopeful, seeing more ideas on how you could reach your goals… You still can do it all, you can change everything you want. Just to do it at the right pace, don’t rush, don’t think that to be free to do it you need to scratch off all the things you so hardly earned.

Slow down. Especially your thoughts. All that overthinking, anxiety, the way you are starting to stress out yourself already now, even when you still didn’t do anything, didn’t start a thing. It is okay, everything is fine. Just because you are feeling the desire to change things, just because a thought of possible ways to do it starts to cross your mind… Nothing will change right now, so suddenly and from nowhere, just because of your change of heart, of your readiness to enter a new phase in your life. It will happen much more slowly, more calmly, more gradually than what it seems because of the emotion and agitation for the realisation that there is so much more in this life, even after you realised your goal and plans.

You can do it all, and you will. Without needing to sacrifice your current life, or being forced to say goodbye to those that are still so dear for your heart. Don’t be afraid of imagining it, of thinking about it, of wandering about what else you can do or how it will be. Because it’s this way that you will recognise the right moments, the ways out that the life occasionally gives us, connecting our reality with new journeys and paths.

For now don't busy yourself with it. Live this life. Keep on appreciating it, feeling proud of how far you've come. And the rest will happen on its own. Because if you are feeling this readiness to move on, I assure you that this world knows it, and it will cooperate with your life to give you more room to grow.

{ ♡ }

[cyber-boredom]

OK since the person I was replying to isn't somebody I want to get into a discussion with ill make my own post about it. Little rant on the aesthetics of arcane vs writer intention ahead based on the use of child labour in the show.

Child labour in Zaun is normalised. Although it's less recognisable to the viewer as such because we're more used to child labour being as being depicted in factories or mines, all of the zaunite kids in act one s1 are child workers. Ekko works in Benzos shop, repairing and selling things. Vanders kids work as thief's, Oliver twist anyone?

Child labour is a feature of industrial boom historically, as well as the result of wealth inequality. Silco and the other chembarons further wealth inequality in Zaun and make use of child labour, but they invented neither. Zaun is Piltovers industry, the majority of factories and mines down there will be owned by Piltovans because that's a major source of wealth.

We never see the piltover owned factories even though logistically they must exist. Narratively there's no place for them to have shown this, however it does seem like the show goes out of its way to show the poor treatment of children and workers by the other Zaunites but leaves Piltovers hand in it unspoken. The most I have here is Silco speaking on the poor working conditions they had and Jayces lack of surprise in seeing children working, both in the factory and when ekko sold him goods. However, realistically Piltover would absolutely be hiring child workers in zaun and would have been the main contributer to the need for child workers to begin with.

I'm mostly making this point for two reasons. One because I've seen Silco criticised as the source of child labour in zaun which I think dumbs down what actually leads to child labour existing. The fact is, with wealth inequality at a severe level, children are forced to work to sustain their family, if not Silcos factories there would be work elsewhere or they would go hungry. This isn't me justifying his use of child labour, I'm only saying the issue would still exist without him because the root cause goes further back than him.

Two, because I've seen people arguing about the strike team and whether or not children would have been caught up in the factory raids. I don't think the writers intended for the strike team to have gassed child workers, I think it's an oversight on their behalf, but yes, even with the most strategic raids children would have been caught in the gray.

I've then seen people claim the children and the workers deserved that and I'm not even going to bother getting into that, babies first exposure to exploitation much?

Anyway, all of that is to say these arguments can go on forever because there's a discrepancy between the aesthetics of zaun and what the writers want us to believe about Piltover. The aesthetics tell us that Zaun is impoverished and exploited, that it's reminiscent of victorian England, it has casual police Brutality hidden in montages. When you think about the implications it gets messy and you realise that some of our good guys are complicit in some nasty things. I personally think that's good story telling.

But then you get to the writing itself and what they're telling is another story. That zauns issues are more caused by zaunites, that the piltover council has very little to do with their problems, that the strike team cannot possibly have hurt civilians because that would make Vi and Cait TOO morally gray. I see this as pretty lame writing, frankly.

This allows for people to be arguing on the show based on completely different perspectives. I completely get why people argue the strike teams efforts were necessary and caused very minor harm, because the writers intend us to take that away, to the extent of only showing a child harmed by the gray when Jinx reverses it. But logistically tons of Zaunite children would have been caught up in the gray too, its just glossed over because the writers don't want us to consider it.

[aventurineswife]

can you do march 7th + male!reader (they'd be friends) and the scenario would be the reader taking march 7th out shopping for a day?

A Day to Remember

Summary: You and March spend a fun-filled day shopping together at a lively space station market. March's excitement and curiosity lead the two of you through various shops as she picks out new camera gear and stylish boots. Along the way, you share laughs and create lasting memories, with the day turning into an unexpected adventure. It’s a simple day that strengthens your friendship, bringing joy and a sense of discovery.

Tags: March 7th x Male!Reader, Friendship, Fluff, Shopping, Lighthearted, Humor, Photography, Everyday Moments.

A/N: FINALLY A MALE READER REQ!! 🗣️🔥

[Credits for the header]

The Astral Express was bustling with energy as usual, but today felt different. March had been talking about wanting a new camera lens for weeks, and after some convincing, you'd finally agreed to take her out shopping for the day. You were both excited, but also uncertain about how it would go—March's adventurous spirit sometimes led her into trouble, and you weren't sure what kind of trouble a shopping spree would lead to.

"You sure you're ready for this?" you teased as you approached her, leaning against a pillar.

March flashed you a bright, excited grin, her eyes practically sparkling. "Of course! I’ve been dreaming about this day for ages. Who better to go with than my best friend?" She twirled around, the flow of her pink-and-blue overcoat making her seem like a whirlwind of energy.

"I guess I can’t argue with that," you said with a chuckle, offering her a hand. "Let’s go, then."

The two of you stepped out into the vibrant shopping district, where the sounds of merchants calling out their wares filled the air. March immediately darted ahead, her curiosity leading her to a stall with a variety of camera accessories. You caught up quickly, amused by her enthusiasm as she inspected every lens, filter, and strap with childlike wonder.

"Look at these! Imagine how much clearer the stars would look with this one!" March exclaimed, holding up a sleek, silver lens that shimmered in the light.

"I think you’ve got a good eye for photography," you replied, smiling. "Maybe we should check out the prices first, though."

March waved you off with a laugh. "Prices are for boring adults. I’m here for the experience!" She threw a playful glance at you, her cheeks flushing a little from the excitement.

You shook your head, unable to stop laughing at her antics. "Alright, alright. Let’s take a look at what else this place has to offer."

As you continued walking through the district, you could tell March was in her element. She darted from one shop to the next, trying on clothes, examining accessories, and occasionally snapping pictures of random objects that caught her attention. You followed her with a sense of amusement, content to watch her embrace the world with such joy.

"Hey! Look at this!" March shouted suddenly, holding up a pair of boots that matched her signature style. They were sleek and sturdy, perfect for her adventurous spirit. "What do you think?"

You raised an eyebrow, glancing at the boots. "They’re definitely your style, but do you really need new boots? Aren’t yours still good?"

March pouted dramatically, her lower lip jutting out. "Come on, please? These ones are way cooler! And they’ll go perfectly with my outfit!"

You sighed, a smile tugging at your lips. "Alright, alright. You’ve convinced me."

As you made your way to the checkout counter, March bounced on her heels, clearly excited about her new purchase. You couldn’t help but feel grateful for this simple day out—watching her discover new things, sharing a laugh here and there, and just enjoying the moment. There was something magical about seeing her so happy.

"You know," you said, handing over the payment for her new boots, "I never thought a shopping trip could be this fun."

March looked up at you, her expression softening. "Well, that’s because you’re with me! Who else would make shopping an adventure?"

She was right. Somehow, March had turned an ordinary errand into a full-blown journey. It wasn’t just about the camera gear or the boots—it was about sharing the day together, capturing moments, and finding joy in the simplest things.

"Thanks for today," March said as you both left the shop. "It was exactly what I needed."

You smiled at her, your heart light. "Anytime, March. Anytime."

And as you walked together, you couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. You may not know everything about your past, but with friends like March, the future was already looking brighter.

[Credits]

[hashimasims]

Apologies for the long post ahead

(that's why I put under a cut lol)

Where do I begin? My name is Minthe Thalzoh and my mother is an Elf and my Father is an Alien!

Wait! Let me start over, sorta, from the beginning.

My father crash landed his ship in my Mother's backyard, one thing led to another and now they're the loves of each other's lives and married. They moved out to Willow Creek to start a family.

ENTER ME!

Wasn't I just the cutest little infant!?!

Anyway . . .

My parents knew even then that I was going to be a genius! Though this could have been because of my mixed species genetics. I hit almost every Milestone ahead of the expected timeline and understood and could do a lot more than a "normal" Infant.

Then I became a Toddler!

Not long after, my sister Kaeleen came around and I didn't get as much of my parent's attention, this upset me understandably but I did know that she was smaller and needed more help. I again met all my milestones and sped through all possible toddler skills before my next Lifestage.

As a child I reached the top of my class within a couple of days and worked through two Aspirations. Mom got pregnant again and gave me another sister, Kira, so I helped Kaeleen as best as I could with all her Milestones and Skills. Soon enough it was time for my next birthday.

Father's distress signal was finally answered (took them long enough!) and his world leaders were sending him - and by extension the rest of us - a rescue shuttle to pick us up and bring us back to Unvahiri. I didn't want to go, I was born on this planet and though traveling to another planet did sound like the adventure of a lifetime I made my case to stay. Father agreed as long as I could pass and graduate high school early and get into college before the shuttle got here. Of course I did it! Did you have any doubts? I got into Foxbury for a Distinguished Degree in Physics and I plan to Minor in Robotics. I even got a full ride! My parents set aside a bit of Simoleons for me once I graduate so I can buy a house and start living the Simlander Dream.

I'm sad to have missed meeting my newest sister, Laryse, in person. She was born on the way to Unvahiri, but I get video transmissions from them from time to time. They hope to make it back for when I graduate but I told them not to worry about it and I would try to set up some sort of recording for them. But that was still a long way away, I still have to pass all my classes first. It's a bit lonely right now but at least I was able to sneak my pet, Voxel, into the Dorm. I think the College Board knows he's here but hasn't said anything - yet.

So without further ado I welcome you to a (my) restart of the Not so Berry Challenge

Beginning|Previous|Next

Watcher's notes: I plan for this to be 99.9% all gameplay based but will try to add in a bit of story here and there for fun but I started this save as a de-compressor for Elucea's story which even though I plan different things and randomly write bits for it (not all will I use obvi) it does get rather tiring some days when I do get into that save file (which probably led to my being more in a building/CAS mood for a bit). I want to actually get through a TRUE challenge for once and I've tried the Not So Berry a couple times and abandoned it but through sharing my Glynnans I have made it to Gen 6 so far and don't plan on stopping so maybe by sharing my NSB gameplay I can complete this challenge for once.

Credits (I will try to remember to leave any pose credits when I use them but I can not guarantee that I will remember since I normally Queue out a scene which a good majority of the time takes 5+ posts and then try to remember to add pose credits when I've finished so I do apologize ahead of time when I inevitable forget same as I have been doing for my story with Elucea):

Minthe and Voxel picture - Cat Travels by @bananasplit-sims

Infant Minthe portrait - Happy Christmas by @simmisstrait

Toddler Minthe portrait - Xmas poses 16 by @simmerianne93

Child Minthe portraits - Family Together by @simmireen

Teen Minthe Portraits - Ordris, Kira, and Shreava (parents with infant) are posed with Portrait Poses 14 by Simmerianne93 Minthe and Kaeleen are posed with Stand By Me (redone) by @talentedtrait

Character Card by @stormistargazer

Minthe's portrait in Character card and banner portrait - F. Model Pt. VI by @sciophobis

[potahun]

sob. thank you op for raising that...i have been thinking about this azusa and furuya exchange again since reading on the Q&A about the 'romantic pair he cannot yet talk about', which made me go 'ah, ok. amuazu a real likelihood if it's a thing that is likely to make waves'...

and yeah...if it really happens, then it means we have to live with them being an item while this exchange also happened. we have to live with GA making us believe furuya would end up with someone who knows him only superficially and has done to him what he's been struggling with all his childhood (and faces into adulthood as well) i don't know how much character distortion or super intense development it requires (how many years is he gonna use) for me to believe this is a credible and lovely romance...

i am guessing that, in the cultural context, what azusa does here is simply considered innocent and quite common. but nonetheless, it really is a blatant statement of "I don't know you beyond the superficial". and furuya's response is the equally superficial "^^" and light impersonal rebuking that amuro does, he's not trying to get her to know him either.

of course, it's all extrapolation whether the remaining romantic pairs rly do include amuazu. but there simply arent many mf pairs left, and we know GA loves his comphet even if it adds nothing to the plot or makes little sense (he introduced a character like chihaya who screams lesbian and even has a dear uni friend only to pair her up immediately with juugo). there are even less mf pairs that would make a fuss. like, what, yoko x kazami? jodie x camel? wouldnt even make a ripple. the only other pair i can think of would be akai x rumi...or an unknown pair with haibara... so if amuazu does become canon, i might have to at least start adhering to the belief that ZTT/movies are in a different parallel universe as the main timeline (even if movie-canon facts are also manga-canon). azusa and furuya would still know each only superficially, with azusa only knowing his amuro persona, but eh, at least this specific characterization of azusa would be out of the way.

i did see that the original tweet came from an amuazu shipper account, while it seems most of the other tweets about the Q&A phrase the answer to that question in a more neutral way. so i will wait a bit...but i also feel like it's a possible thing for GA, especially considering the latest chapters where he's been teasing the ship more and more (WHILE NOT MAKING IT ROMANTIC) he's also done some very weird narrative choices lately, introducing aoko's mum in MK and doing acrobatics to explain her absence, thereby completely messing up the perfectly logical narrative of nakamori being an overworked single dad. im worried he might go ahead and do something equally crazy for furuya, like introducing that he actually had a family all along! who's proud of him and raised him normally but he just cut ties because of his job or whatever! so he's never really been isolated! azusa was his childhood friend but she forgot! and oh! somehow, amuro is the real persona, let's forget about grumpy, high-strung furuya of ZTT, so amuazu can work as a wholesome pair because azusa knew the real him all along!

that's the type of thing that would disappoint me the most. like, yes, i would also be a bit heartbroken because i like hc-ing azusa and furuya as lesbian and gay respectively. i like their dynamics as co-workers who dont really want to know each other on a deeper level, but work well together. but beyond that, i mostly worry that GA has to distort their characters as we currently know them to make this pairing work, and that he will do it, because unfortunately, he HAS done narrative choices before that were not bound by logical narrative flow and were only made to serve a purpose that only he enjoys...

But really, that dialogue in ZTT Ch. 1 that Aoyama either wrote himself or signed off on is insane, especially when you compare how Rei’s mixed heritage is addressed in WPS by his friends:

vs. in ZTT:

The only way this makes sense to me is if it was meant to further emphasize how alone Rei is in the here and now. He has no one who sees him as himself anymore, and neither does he have anyone who’d get angry enough to defend him. He himself is used to this level of othering- it’s not even worth getting mad at anymore, even if he might spitefully overcompensate at home by cooking up a storm of food that actually suits his tastes. So he’ll never bite back against it himself.

I assume Aoyama was planning an am*azu endgame from before ZTT started, considering that early am*azu fantasy chapter. Why in the world wouldn’t he have instead written Azusa as an ally to Rei, in that case? She could’ve defended Rei against a casually discriminating background character, cementing her as a proper friend to Rei that he hasn’t had since he lost his last police academy buddy.

Instead, he chose to do the exact opposite.

[dykedvonte]

Reading MW takes on Twitter is like reading a summary of the Bible from someone who only watched like a Family Guy family special about it

[batsplat]

hi batsplat! i would like to say that you are an absolute pillar of the motogp community on here, like you are truly so so appreciated. both for your knowledge and also for the way you write about things (i think you could write 3000 words on a grocery store trip valentino took in 2003 and still make it super interesting reading)

i was reading your post about your favourite rivalries that didnt include one of the aliens, who would you personally include as part of that list? (versus who is really good but not quite alien status) id also really like to know if (and who) youd count as aliens from the pre-motogp era, and if theres been a difference over time about how often we are seeing aliens or if theyre easier/harder to spot as technical developments have sped up

hope you have a great day!

that's so sweet... thank you that's such an incredible compliment dsdkhfkhfd

about the aliens, the way I use the term is entirely as a historical descriptor, not as a qualitative assessment of any riders. it's a useful shorthand for a specific riders in a specific era, but to me it has limited relevance outside of that era. so to be clear we're talking valentino, casey, dani, jorge and marc - and according to common wisdom this usage originated from colin edwards' 2009 comment:

“But as I’ve said before, I’ve got to be pleased to be finishing next best behind those four guys, or should I say aliens. “They are riding out of this world and to be right behind them means I’m doing the best job I can and that’s about as good as I can hope for at the moment.”

(jorge discusses valentino as an alien in 2007, see here. which might be complete coincidence, but has always made me kind of curious whether the word was floating around in the paddock in some capacity before edwards 'coined' the term)

the thing is, right, it made sense to treat those four (and later -casey +marc) as distinct from the field, because they were winning almost everything. one reason for this was that they were very good, very skilled riders. another was that from 2007-15, only four to six bikes were capable of regularly challenging for wins at any one time. it was a massive field disparity that quite frankly was partly enforced through machinery. that's why it makes sense to include marc in that term: it's not just the fact that he was very good, it's the fact that he was riding a repsol honda that was the best or second best bike by a long way for his first three years in the premier class. in 2016, motogp returned to michelins and introduced new technical regulations - and for all intents and purposes, the alien era ended. it ended when eight different riders won in eight races that season. yes, marc, valentino and jorge were still the top three in the championship... but it's the difference of whether you go into a weekend convinced you know the winner will come from a list of four riders, or if you very much do not know that. between 2008 to 2015, apart from the aliens, a grand total of two riders claimed wins - dovi on a repsol honda in 2009 and ben spies on a factory yamaha in 2011. both of those were wet races (which of course are generally more open than dry ones). so just to reiterate: a greater number of riders won in 2016 alone (9) than in 2008-15 combined (7). (in 2007, a further two different riders won races - capirossi on the championship-winning factory ducati and vermeulen on the suzuki.) yes, obviously the aliens were very good riders, nobody is going to argue with you over that... but those numbers? they're only possible in a specific version of motogp - one that only existed for a few years

honestly, I don't even really use the term 'alien' to describe valentino pre-2006 or marc post-2016. it's just not that useful to me... aliens to me is a 'pack hunter' thing, where even if some of them are injured or are having a bad day or whatever, at least one of them will basically always be there to pick up the pieces. marc and valentino might have dominated the sport as a whole - but not all of their championship seasons were completely dominant, and there's only so much any one athlete can dominate in the sport... you're not going into every single weekend thinking 'oh yeah they're definitely going to win' (yes, yes, there were two times per year where you did very much do that with marc). which is different when you compare it to the aliens as a pack, where you could be confident that ONE of them would end the weekend on the top step of the podium

which is why I just don't apply the alien term to anyone pre-valentino - it's not because I think they were less good or less talented or less anything, it's because for me it's a term that's more about an era than it is about individual riders. you have to treat each era on its own, and I'm not really a big fan of inter-era comparisons. it's just kind of impossible to say whether a rider in the 1970s is more talented than one in the 2020s, whether ago's numbers are more or less impressive than marc's and so on... the sport has just changed in so many ways over the years. of course, in sports you do generally have this upward momentum where each generation is 'better' than the last. sports has gotten more professionalised, there's been massive advances in terms of pedagogy and sports medicine and exercise science and all of those things - all of which already affects how athletes train from childhood onwards. the young aren't more 'talented' in the sense that they were born with an innate superior ability to compete at the sport, but they are more 'talented' in that their ultimate ceiling will be higher as a result of all these gradual changes over time. these things can change quite quickly even (and if other sports is anything to go by, I wouldn't be surprised if the nineties/early noughties brought some big changes in that regard) - so already between, for instance, valentino and marc there'd probably been a real shift in how young talent is being nurtured

(the most blunt illustration of this is that young valentino's lifestyle was completely different from that of young riders today, in terms of how much time he spent training in the gym, sleeping habits, nutrition etc etc. athletes now can't get away with that much deviation any more, and indeed valentino had to massively change his approach in the 2010s to remain competitive - but of course it's different if you haven't been doing this stuff since you were a kid. I think we can safely assume valentino's 2003 supermarket trips looked rather different from marc's 2017 ones)

being good in pro sports may in some ways be harder now than it was in, say, the eighties, and the level of competition you're facing might be higher now - but of course, it would also by extension be unfair to judge those athletes by the standards of today. also, different eras are going to lend themselves to different profiles of rider depending on competitive trends, type of machinery and so on - even very basic stuff like how tall you are might have helped you in a certain era and hindered you in another... so what does that mean for talent? if we're discussing 'talent' at all, how can we possibly treat it as anything other than relative to the era we're discussing? to me, it just makes these comparisons between different generations pretty pointless... or well, I like talking about some of this stuff in a more holistic 'isn't this interesting' kind of way, not a 'this is why xyz is better than xyz' approach... this kind of thing is also why I finds goat debate such a uniquely boring way to spend your time, incidentally

this is a very long way of saying, I don't have a metric by which I judge athletes pre-2000 as 'alien' or 'not alien'! I think you have similarly dominant athletes, though again it is so tough to decide how much of that is down to talent and how much of it is down to bike advantage. if you take doohan's title winning seasons for instance:

yeah, look, sure, you can call him an alien as far as I'm concerned - if I'm watching these races live I will be expecting doohan to win in any given weekend. I'm still kind of missing the pack hunter feel in some of these seasons, so I won't know for certain the winner is going to come from a very short list. like take 1998:

not really one group vs the field, is it? and yeah, even if I consider doohan an 'alien' in some of those seasons, I'm still not going to call him that - because the term was essentially coined in 2009 for a specific group of guys that one other guy was later added onto. the competitive landscape and demands of doohan's era were so different that it feels off to try and go back and label him or any other past riders aliens... they were phenomenally talented, yes, they were great champions, yes, they can be called as good as the aliens, sure - but why wrench the term out of its historical context? is it still an analytically useful concept if you do so, except as a way to generically refer to a rider as 'very talented'?

which is also why I personally don't describe anyone since then as an alien. this doesn't mean I don't think fabio or now pedro aren't as good as those guys were, I just don't think they've been given the opportunity to have that kind of hold over the sport. fabio won five out of eighteen races in 2021 - and he did so on a yamaha that basically only he was able to consistently get a high level of performance out of. which is deeply impressive - but unlike say casey in 2007, he didn't have those other riders to dominate all the other races. eight riders won a race that season! it's just a fundamentally different competitive landscape. personally, I'd be perfectly content if we don't get another alien era. of course 2007-15 isn't all bad, but for good reason most fans' most fondly remembered eras are either 2001-06 or 2017-19... yes, at times one rider was too dominant, but it still felt like more riders had a shot at victory - and most importantly the quality of the racing was generally very high. this kind of domination by a few mega talents on the best machinery can get drab pretty quickly (though of course a lot of the blame for decreased race quality needs to be assigned to the 800cc era 2007-11, not to any of the aliens themselves)

I'd be quite happy to retire the term alien going forwards... except as a useful shorthand for a specific group of guys who have mostly retired. it shouldn't be used as a way to bash the young stars, as if they just can't measure up to the legends of the past. which would be dumb! again, plenty of ways in which motogp is harder now than it ever has been, though the most important thing is that it's just... different. not better, not worse, just different. sure, maybe we'll get another equivalent to the alien era, even though I personally think it's quite unlikely. if it happens, yeah, let's discuss cranking the term out again (and, yes, if you look at the current season and ignore sprints... if this current trend continues then we can have the debate at the end of the season. pecco and jorge despite all their apparent inconsistencies are currently building a pretty solid case for themselves) (now I've said that they're both gonna crash out of assen huh)

that being said! I don't exactly neatly follow this principle myself, because sometimes I do use something like the term 'alien-like talent' to refer to fabio or pedro... obviously, you can argue this is basically the same as calling them aliens in everything but semantics. so what's the criteria there? when do I use this term? I think to me it's just... instant, 'in your face' talent. they arrive to the premier class and they shine basically immediately. valentino got a relatively sedate start to the premier class by alien standards - which is fitting, because he's not really about that blistering raw pace. still, he wasn't far from being a rookie champion, got ten podiums, two wins... not too bad. casey was on a satellite team, but he got pole in his second ever race and came painfully close to winning his third. dani got a podium on debut and fought for the championship for almost the entire season. jorge got pole in his first three races and won his third. marc won the second time out and of course secured the title in his rookie season. compare that to fabio - pole in his fourth ever race on satellite machinery, fighting for wins in his first season. pedro got a podium in his second ever race and is handily outperforming everyone else on that bike

so it's about how quickly these guys pick this stuff up, how quickly they make that step from one level to another - though again, it's important to stress you can't just neatly compare these achievements! valentino's first two seasons were on 500cc bikes, which were notorious for being kind of evil. some of these riders started on satellite bikes (we're not counting valentino here), and there's also plenty of talk about how the bikes have become more complicated to ride now, making pedro's rapid adjustment even more impressive. but in every case, there is just this ability to 'be fast immediately', whatever the circumstances... and it's worth pointing out that even though pecco had a mediocre rookie season, he was incredibly quick in 2019 pre-season testing. jorge martin secured his first pole position and podium at his second race in motogp

speaking of, those two were already a touch older when they joined the premier class. there does generally seem to be something to the idea that in motorcycle racing, if you are not already very fast at a certain age, you will have a quite definitive ceiling... and from valentino onwards, the age by which you need to already have reached that standard of 'very good' seems to have gone down. when we're talking about talent and throwing around the term alien, this feels like another important change to mention - doohan was not winning his titles as a 22 year old! neither was rainey! or schwantz! or lawson! or... actually spencer was very young, yeah. but I think you get the point. I cannot tell you definitively why this changed, but it clearly has changed. in the 21st century, only two riders have won titles when they were older than 26: valentino (29-30) and jorge (28). valentino and marc were both 27 when their dominance over the sport ended (even if valentino secured titles after that point and marc will very probably do so as well). casey was 27 when he retired. (fun fact: pecco bagnaia is currently 27 years old.) so overall it's pretty rare in grand prix motorcycle racing to operate at the top of the premier class for more than a certain number of years - but the precise age window in which you are likely to be at your best does seem to have shifted pretty radically this century. which should demonstrate how hard these things are to compare... like I said, talent is often assessed by how quickly you are good at something - but if we called mick doohan a late bloomer, it would be wildly ahistorical

and yeah, look, this idea of 'you have to be good young or you will have a certain ceiling' is hardly unique to motogp, lots of sports are like that... another measure of this precocity that's perhaps more useful than just 'age' is looking how long it took them to win a title from when they joined the premier class (if they did so at all, of course). it's generally very fast! marc year one, valentino, casey and joan year two, jorge and fabio year three... and, well, pecco and hayden year four. of course, there's exceptions to this 'be fast immediately' rule - athletes who ended up being very good and title contenders who had slightly different paths getting there. the sete's and dovi's of this world - and to a lesser extent hayden too, who unlike those two was only even really a title contender in a single season... but generally speaking, those riders seem more heavily reliant on circumstances playing out just right to have a shot at a title

or perhaps! perhaps it's going to change! especially if you look at repeat champions, pecco does become a bit of an outlier in how he got there this century, doesn't he? compare the numbers he was posting in his rookie season vs valentino, casey, jorge and marc. and in some ways, you can extend this even further and say he's a massive historical outlier in terms of any premier class champions. there was an article about this in late 2022:

and some more about how historically unusual he is:

isn't that great? you don't become premier class champion with that kind of a rookie season, but pecco did! hey, aleix was a serious title threat in that season, which is a far more remarkable story still! and the thing is, right, if you're studying the current era and are labelling some riders aliens but leaving out pecco... then no offence but what's the point? look, who knows, maybe marc and pedro and david alonso are going to dominate the next twenty titles and pecco will have been a weird blip. but isn't there something fun about believing that a bunch of different riders could eventually develop into title threats? wouldn't it be kind of cool if you don't have to just write someone off age 22 any more? I don't know, I think it's a neat development! I hope it sticks around! there'll be plenty of alien-level talents in the future, but personally I wouldn't mind at all if there were no more aliens

[vaguely-concerned]

just going about my day idly contemplating how some of the ways hawke can interact with a romanced anders are not at all unlike how they interact with leandra (and a bit of carver too, especially with a purple hawke), and then thought about my hawke in the timeline where he romances anders and was hit straight in the face with 'was he ever actually in love, or was he just desperately trying to renegotiate with his mother's ghost in any way he could' and now i need to lie down. this is the power of dragon age 2