#it still isn't in many time zones shh

[skyloftian-nutcase]

Whumptober Day 8 - Sleep Deprivation/Forced to Stay Awake

Y'all know with a prompt like this I had to write my baby Sky. I decided to have fun with Skyward Sword and the Imprisoned's design/encounter. :3

X

To say Link was exhausted was an understatement. However, he was far from stopping now. He had failed to rescue Zelda when she’d been captured, and he’d refused to fall behind since then. While he’d successfully defended her and Impa from Ghirahim at the Temple of Time, it had felt like a hollow victory – he’d finally caught up to Zelda just to lose her again.

But he’d been given a mission: he could reunite with her if he opened the Gate of Time. And opened it he had.

In the end, it had been for nothing. One quest after another, one task after another, one test after another. And the end result was to watch Zelda encase herself in an amber prison for thousands of years, with her only hope of escape through his success.

He couldn’t make her wait a second longer. How many millennia had she been in there? Could she hear him? Could she tell anything was happening? Or did all her focus go to maintain in the seal, heart heavy with sorrow and guilt over a truth Link could hardly fathom?

He just wanted his friend back.

He hadn’t stopped since the Earth Temple. At best, he’d paused after Zelda’s imprisonment – a time where he literally couldn’t move forward, not for a few hours at least, as his body finally took advantage of his weakened resolved and made him violently ill for the rest of the day. But the next morning, he was up before Groose or the old lady, and he was off to strengthen himself and prepare himself further so he could eliminate the demon king once and for all and save Zelda.

As time had passed, his resolve had remained, but his patience had thinned. His best option was usually to stay quiet, but sometimes snappish remarks came out unbidden, nearly downright callous in his fatigue. The amount of people he almost hadn’t helped was… somewhat alarming, in the back of his mind. Link could be a troublemaker sometimes, but he’d never been cruel or apathetic, and some days he felt nearly both as his journey progressed.

He’d take it out on the demon king. He’d take it out on Demise, on his imprisoned form, that cursed abomination that changed shape every new time it tried to break through the seal Zelda was suffering to maintain.

Link stood at the edge of Skyloft, staring off into the clouds with nearly no thoughts in his head. He’d been called an airhead, even lazy, plenty of times – perhaps that was the case. Perhaps this was more laziness from him, more wasted time he couldn’t afford to have, but the way his mind was so blank, the way it took all his energy just to stand almost made him wonder if he should… no.

No. He would not take a break. He couldn’t afford to. In his more desperate moment, while he was ill, he’d told himself that Zelda was simply asleep, that he had all the time in the world now. But then the anxieties quickly returned, the thoughts that kept him awake at night questioning is she actually still awake in there? Has she been suffering and waiting painstakingly for me for ten thousand years? And then he couldn’t sleep, he had to get up and move, he had to make his way back to Skyloft and figure out how in the world he was supposed to find the Triforce and finally end this.

He’d found Levias quickly. He’d fought off the parasite quickly. And then he’d been tasked with yet another quest, another hurdle preventing him from completing his mission.

He wanted to scream. Instead, he restocked his supplies at the bazaar, and now he found himself just… staring.

Move, he tried to urge himself, but his feet wouldn’t listen. His loftwing circled below him, waiting for him to jump, gliding along the winds and calling to him, urging him. Yet he felt like he could pass for a sword spirit himself, made entirely of metal, weighed down with an immeasurable weight.

He was so tired.

He couldn’t remember the last time he’d gotten a full night’s sleep. Or even naps during the day to compensate, at least not more than the few minutes he’d nod off at any moment’s notice before getting back on track.

How did Hylia think he was worthy of this task? He didn’t know. But he didn’t care – this wasn’t about Hylia, this was about his friend.

But aren’t they one in the same? He didn’t know. He didn’t know. It didn’t matter. He would save Zelda. But he had to move.

Move. Move, dammit!

His mind was blank, but it screamed at the same time. He belittled himself but couldn’t motivate himself to just jump. The daunting magnitude of his task sat heavier and heavier on his shoulders the longer he stood there.

He had a headache. His stomach rolled with emptiness, an illness born from lack of appetite. His body trembled, and he swore he could see lights in the sky that weren’t the portals.

Fi chimed. She was saying something, but whatever it was, it sounded so distant over the wind. He hardly heard it.

“Master.”

He wasn’t sure he’d ever heard her voice so loudly. Either way, it made him finally snap out of his daze, head turning sharply to see her hovering just to his right. Despite being expressionless, something in the way she carried herself looked different to Link, a strange tension in her usually limber and fluid body.

“Master Link. Now that I have your attention, I must again emphasize that there is a 78% chance furthering your journey in your current state could lead to serious damage. You must return to your place of residence to acquire proper rest and nutrition in order to continue,” she explained.

Link blinked. “What?”

Fi was silent a moment, and then repeated, “There is an 81% chance that furthering your journey in this state—”

“You changed the percentage,” Link grumbled, waving his hand. “I don’t care about the probability. I’m 100% going now.”

“Master Link—”

Spite and anger fueled him all of a sudden, finally giving him the impetus he needed to jump, and Fi quickly returned to the sword, though he swore he could hear a heavy sigh. Had she ever sighed?

Usually, the crashing winds of skydiving would bring Link into focus more than nearly anything. Today it felt like slaps to the face, anger flushing his cheeks red hot as he let himself nearly fall into the cloud barrier before calling his loftwing, who came immediately.

His exhaustion seemed to be nearly left behind on Skyloft, and he leapt off his loftwing when they hovered over Faron’s region. He wasn’t really looking forward to explaining anything to Groose, so he hoped he could bypass the Sealed Temple altogether and just find the dragons to get this over with.

Maybe Fi is right, his mind whispered, a nagging, irritating, desperately plea. Maybe I should rest when I get down there.

And listen to Groose bully him about not being a man? Or get harassed by the old lady for not doing his duty? Or make Zelda wait a second longer than she had to?

What if she doesn’t actually feel or hear anything? What if you can actually take the time you need?

He… he couldn’t dare to hope, could he? He was so tired. Just… just maybe one full night’s sleep, when the sun set. Maybe just one. Just one.

“A report, Master,” Fi chimed in his mind, catching him off guard. “An unusual phenomenon is taking place in Faron Woods, making it impossible to descend directly into them at the moment.”

Of freaking course it is, he thought irritably. What new obstacle was in his—

Oh wow.

What should have been green as far as the eye could see was now heavily overcome with brilliant blue, reminding him of the old Lanayru Sea. Where had all that water come from??

Link directed his body where Fi indicated to land by the Sealed Grounds, and he pulled out his sailcloth at the last moment, nearly missing that he was about to slam into the ground. He sighed heavily, rubbing his face. Maybe he wouldn’t even be able to access Faron at the moment, and he could get some sl—

Groose rushed for him, eyes wide and face pale, and Link immediately knew sleep was not going to be an option.

“Link, bad news!” he called, waving his arms before screeching to a halt in front of him. The ground shook, dark energy wafting in the air like fog that danced in sadistic delight, and Link’s insides grew cold. “That beast looks like it’s about to break free again!”

Not again! We just did this!!

The Seal was weakening even more, despite hie best efforts, despite Zelda’s efforts.

What if—what if—

“Gotta get into position!” Groose said, fear dissipating as determination carved his face into stone. He truly did look like a knight of Skylfot in that moment. “Hang tight!”

For a brief moment, Link felt his heart stop at the thought of what might have happened if he’d heeded Fi’s advice and stayed up in Skyloft to rest. But now wasn’t the time to ponder it. His body and mind snapped into coordinated clarity as adrenaline surged his system, pushing the exhaustion to the periphery. He followed Groose, body tense and aching, head still pounding. Dark slivers of malice moved higher and higher, polluting the air and making his head hurt even more – he wasn’t sure how Groose wasn’t able to feel so sick as they nearly choked on the demon’s dark energy… was he just growing weak from lack of rest?

It doesn’t matter. I can’t stop!

The earth shook again, nearly knocking Link down to a lower level as he lost his footing. Groose just managed to reach the Groosenator, clinging to it for stability as he yelped, “Whoa! Feels like that seal is going to give way any second!”

The seal, the seal—oh Zelda, what’s happening?! Why is the seal faltering so much? Are you hurting, are you weakening, why is it breaking so much now what if I can’t stop it what if I’m too late—

“Uh… but no need to panic!” Groose continued, and for a second Link thought his own fears were showing on his face, but it seemed his bully-turned-friend was trying to reassure himself as he held onto his device with a white knuckled grip. “You know what the Groosenator can do! As long as I’m at the controls of this bombshell beauty, I don’t even know the meaning of the word defeat!”

The earth quaked again, and Groose braced himself, standing tall and powerful as the sky darkened. Link unsheathed his blade, hearing Fi sing and warm in anticipation, a faint blue glow illuminating the darkening space around them.

Groose nodded to himself, looking Link firmly in the eye. “Flinging bombs on this monster’s face, defending this land… it’s my purpose, I think. It’s why I’m here.”

He seemed so certain all of a sudden, like a hero of legend himself. For the first time, Link wondered if perhaps Hylia should have chosen Groose instead. Nothing seems to have deterred him. Link tried to lean on that certainty as well, and as he glanced back at the Sealed Temple, his own fire rekindled within him. He straightened his back, growing tense as the world shook again, a distant roar echoing in his mind.

“Anyway, Link, I’ve got work to do,” Groose announced, waving a hand and smirking. “Try not to get in the way of my shots, okay?”

Link nodded, moving off the platform and looking down at the seal itself. It was glowing blood red, a vibrant reflection of the darker hue the sky had taken. Crimson and purple in hues darker than timeshift crystals rose like smoke from a fire, sparks emanating from them and freezing the space around them. Link felt himself shiver, but he gritted his teeth, ignoring the way the icy dark magic tried to stab through his skin like hundreds of tiny needles.

He wasn’t going to wait for that monster to tear through the ground. He would face it head on. Maybe if he caught it early enough, he could banish it once more before it could even start climbing.

He felt a little more confident now that Groose was well practiced on the matter. His classmate’s confidence seeped into him, warming his already steely resolve like pumpkin soup on a chilly day.

Link leapt off the cliff, making his way to the bottom. The closer he got, the colder it got, an ominous, otherworldly feeling making every hair on his body stand up, his instincts screaming for him to turn away. It left him a little unsettled – fear had been his companion on each confrontation, but it had never felt so visceral, as if every fiber of his being was repulsed by the beast within.

He didn’t have much time to ponder the matter any further as the seal shone brightly before being completely drowned in dark energy. It pulsed all around Link, seeming to try and steal the breath from his lungs, paralyzing his body, and he took a hasty step back to ready himself, shivering horribly.

Massive arms tore from the earth, throwing Link even farther back and slamming him into the gorge’s wall. He remembered that the last time, the strangely egg shaped, black scaled monstrosity had grown more limbs, long muscular arms with claws sharper than Crimson’s talons, body more stretched to be more proportional, and a tail starting to peek out from behind. It crawled like the little creatures Link had seen in the desert, looking almost like a lizalfos crawling on all fours as it tried to climb its way to the Sealed Temple.

It was far worse now.

The Imprisoned was massive. Its body was far more elongated now, tail evident and whipping around to beat Link into a pulp as dark flames burned endlessly from its spine. Its black scales snaked around its entire body except for its underbelly, which looked like it was carved of pure stone instead of the thick skin that it had to be. Alongside its multiple rows of razor sharp teeth, it now had massive lower incisors sprouting out of its mouth and above its head, like horns that it would use to skewer him. It moved faster than ever, immediately making its way up the cliffside.

“Link! Let’s do this!” Groose shouted loudly from the top. “Our game plan is the same as last time! You know what to do!”

Link frantically ran towards the nearest air geyser just as Groose launched a bomb towards the beast, and as it made contact with the monster’s head, Link brought his blade down on its feet to slow it down like before. The Master Sword glowed blue, its magic making it burn through the beast’s scales on its feet and drawing black blood. The Imprisoned roared and whipped its tail to take him out. Weeks, maybe even months of fighting lizalfos helped him to dodge in time, slamming his body to the ground before he could get completely pummeled. He rose quickly as Groose hurled another bomb their way, but this time he was too slow.

The shock of the blast sent both him and the Imprisoned stumbling. He heard Groose cry out, but he could hardly register it. Fi chimed seemingly frantically to get his attention as the Imprisoned began to climb shakily. He managed to reach its other foot before it could lift off the ground, dodging around the dark energy emanating from the being as it tried to sap him of his strength. A spin attack assisted him in crippling the beast, making it stumble back before falling to the ground with such an earth shattering force that Link fell off the cliffside to the bottom once more. He quickly recovered, using the geyser to return to the Imprisoned and strike at its sealing spike.

He could do this, he could do this. It was going well so far, and—

The Imprisoned roared, freezing Link, and a dark halo suddenly appeared around its head like a sacrilegious crown, and then the beast started floating upward.

“WHOA!” Groose bellowed. “Since when did it learn how to fly?!”

Link stared in horror, trying to rush for the Imprisoned’s tail to latch on, but its dark magic repelled him, making the world spin dizzyingly as he got knocked flat on his back, heart racing.

“It’s headed straight for the temple!” Groose yelled. “But there’s no way I’m letting it get there! Big ugly’s going down burning!”

Link blinked blearily, trying to reorient himself, Fi’s earlier warning screaming in his addled mind, there is a 78% chance furthering your journey in your current state could lead to serious damage.

The only damage he cared about was to Zelda, he could handle—could handle…

The world faded for a terrifying moment, and Link jolted awake a second later, heart racing faster than any monster could evoke. The sound of a bomb exploding and the deep, throaty, ear splitting roar of the Imprisoned tore through his mind next, nearly blowing out his hearing.

The beast fell from the sky, flopping on its side, tail halfway covering the trail down to the bottom, feet still bleeding, halo missing. Link gritted his teeth, leaping off and disregarding the sailcloth entirely, landing on the beast and feeling his feet burn as he slid to the ground near its throat. He reached the spike in seconds, ignoring how he limped, and beat the thing back into the monster’s skull once more. His arm shivered from the exertion, feeling every bit of the strikes against pure, mystical stone, and the Imprisoned roared in protest, writhing in agony and making Link run for the nearest corner to avoid getting hit.

As he watched the beast fight against the sealing spike once more, precious item out of his reach, he heard Groose yell in panic.

“Not good! The road crumbled, and I can’t get to the rest of my bomb stash!” he heard Groose shout, and Link felt his blood freeze. What were they going to—“Link! Come up to the temple, and make your way over here! Hustle up!!”

Link shook his head, shoulder screaming in protest, and rushed to the nearest geyser as the Imprisoned quickly recovered its strength. He nearly lost his grip a couple times on his sailcloth, but he made it up top quickly enough to feel his heart stop as the Imprisoned was nearly at eye level with him. Without a second thought, he leapt into the cannon, about to order Groose to fire him when his friend already spoke the words he was thinking.

Nodding in resolve, he let Groose guide the machine and then his world lurched as he was tossed. He tensed with the movement, pushing off the catapult to give himself even more momentum, sword at the ready as he landed on the beast’s skull.

Immediately, its dark energy started to slink around him, black flames lapping at his clothes, paradoxically freezing, tensing every muscle in his body. He pushed through, slamming his blade down on the sealing spike, and he threw enough momentum into it that the stone sank all the way into its skull.

The Imprisoned roared, and the ground beneath Link vanished as it plummeted to the pit faster than him. He fumbled with his sailcloth, pulling it out with enough time to not get himself killed, but not sparing him the hard impact of such a rushed landing. He groaned as his legs gave out, one feeling it had nearly snapped, and aimed his sword skyward as he propped himself up from the ground with one arm.

Fi sang, glowing with holy energy, and Link made the sealing motions.

And just like that, it was over.

Relief flooded Link so utterly that he collapsed, body screaming, incapable of catching his breath.

He wasn’t sure what happened after that, honestly. All he knew was that suddenly he was in the Sealed Temple.

Blinking in confusion, he tried to sit himself up and hissed as his right shoulder gave on, slamming his head on a pillow.

A pillow?

“Link!” Groose rushed into his sight, looking worried. “Buddy, drink this!”

Drink wha—

Link coughed as a bottle was shoved into his face and he nearly choked on the red liquid that poured into his mouth. He swallowed most of it, some dribbling out of his mouth while his lungs violently shoved the rest out. He felt Groose sit him up with a hasty apology.

Immediately, warm relief flooded him, easing the ache in his shoulder, the screaming in his leg, the headache pounding behind his eyes. Every ounce of his strength, however, was still gone.

Groose huffed, shifting from worried to his usual boisterous self. “You had me worried! What happened out there? Was it the Groosenator? It’s not like we haven’t shot ourselves in the air like that, did that big ugly monster poison you or something?”

“He’s clearly exhausted,” the old woman noted from somewhere in the distance. “Let him rest, Groose.”

Groose paused, his concern becoming gentler, and he quietly eased Link back onto the makeshift bed.

Honestly, the smaller Skyloftian couldn’t protest. His mind was too blank, soul heavy and completely overcome by his body’s feeble state.

How long had he gone without sleep? And how long had he gone without getting more than a couple hours at a time?

It didn’t matter! At this rate, the Imprisoned would come back so often he wouldn’t even be able to leave the Sealed Grounds!

“Link.”

Link turned his head to look over at the old woman as she approached. Although he couldn’t really see her eyes, the gentleness in her tone mixed with her more-shriveled-than-usual posture painted a… strangely solemn picture.

“Let yourself rest, boy,” she encouraged quietly. “You will not be able to help Zelda if you collapse.”

You were late.

She’s waiting for you.

The demon king is getting stronger.

Link tried to protest. He couldn’t make a sound.

Master, Fi said softly in his head, filling the fog with her song. There is a 97% probability that you will be unable to make it to the entrance of the Sealed Temple, let alone any farther than that. I highly recommend following their advice and recovering your strength.

97% meant there was still a 3% chance he could do it. But he… knew it was pointless to try.

Link hated himself for needing this. Hated himself for being so weak, so feeble, so mortal when what Hylia clearly expected was a god. How else was he supposed to fight a god of destruction?

He squeezed his eyes shut, frustrated, ignoring the tears that tried to escape. He didn’t care if he was just a student from Skyloft. He would save Zelda. Nothing would stop him.

But… he would resume in the morning. He could spare no further time for himself than that. Not at the rate the seal was deteriorating.

Zelda’s sacrifice would not be in vain.

He heard Groose speaking quietly to the old woman, something about gathering supplies for Link. He felt his heart warm a little at the notion of it, at the thought that he wasn’t alone in this. He was suddenly very thankful for Groose, no matter the history they had.

Link closed his eyes, and he finally let himself rest. But when his anxieties woke him that evening, he refused the demands Groose made that he continued to sleep. Instead, he was briefed on the situation happening in Faron Woods, and his friend reluctantly agreed to help him get inside the newly flooded region.

As Link flew through the air, preparing to hit the crystal clear waters, he let the wind whip his face and awaken him once more. He would sleep when Zelda was safe. He’d gone through the Silent Realms. He had Din’s strength to help him, Farore’s courage to maintain his resolve, Nayru’s wisdom to guide him.

He was ready. It was time to finish this.

[skywarpie]

❛ you are doing so well, my pet. ❜ / Copia x Cumulus impact play, pretty please?

Darker vibes prompts

It had all started because of that fucking white suit. Why the Cardinal thought such tight fitting pants would be flattering is still beyond Cumulus. She isn't complaining though. It gives a good view the whole show.

Once the show had ended, they all filed off the stage. Several of the ghouls joking with one another. Cumulus's eyes remained zoned in on the Cardinal in front of her. He was still in that fucking suit and wearing that stupid hat and using his cane to point off in another direction as he spoke to Aether. It wasn't often Copia used it, but he'd confided recently to his ghouls that a previous hip injury was slowly beginning to rear its head once more.

Sure, it's a good aid for walking but Cumulus has a different idea.

She watches as he slips off into his own dressing room, she follows close behind. He's just about to close the door when cumulus plants her foot in the doorway.

Copia blinks. "Oh! Did you need something?" The look on his face is too earnest for her. He's too cute for his own good.

"Mind if I come in?" Cumulus purrs and the Cardinal wastes no time in stepping back and motioning her inside.

"Did something ha --" Copia doesn't even have time to finish his sentence before he's shoved, back against the door. With wide mismatched eyes he stares at the ghoulette.

"You think you're funny or something?" There's no malice in her voice.

"I -- I don't know what you mean." Copia squeaks as be tries to shimmy away.

"Oh, I know you're smarter than that." She cups him through his trousers. "Out there showing off to everyone." She squeezes.

It takes a moment but she sees the moment realization hits him. The way his pupils dilate and he lips his lips. "Well, I didn't hear many complaints." That's true. Everyone had lost it as soon as the outline of his cock was visible. "Although, something tells me you seem to have one." He cocks a brow. Cumulus is about to chide him when her eyes land on the cane still gripped in his left hand.

They're on one another in an instant. Teeth and fangs clacking together as their mouths fight for dominance. But cumulus is determined to win this. And within a few moments she has the Cardinal bent over the vanity, his pants around his ankles. She's long since snatched his cane, which she now runs along the bare flesh of his ass.

Copia whines as he pushes back against her, desperate for any friction.

"I think ten lashes should be a sufficient enough punishment, what do you say?" Her only response is a frustrated groan and she grabs Copia by his hair, forcing him to look at his own reflection." For every time you look away from the mirror I'm adding an extra hit."

She runs the cane against the underside of his ass before bringing it down with a hard thwack. Copia bites his lip as he groans.

"I need you to count each one, baby." She whispers in his ear. "Otherwise I may lose count and have to start over."

She brings the cane down a second time, this time a fraction of an inch higher than the first hit.

"Two." Copia's eyes are wild as he meets his reflection.

They keep this pace for majority of the time. Cumulus alternating between hitting him in the same spot followed by a hit either below of above the last. "You're doing so well, my pet." She licks the shell of Copia's ear. He's long since faded into the feeling of bliss. He keeps his lidded eyes on his reflection and Cumulus notices the way his make-up is smudged, drool running down his chin.

She hits him one last time, her left hand sneaking around to grab his cock which hangs hard and neglected.

Copia whines as she lays her weight against his abused ass. "Shh." Cumulus kisses his sideburn as she runs a nail gently along the slit of his cock.

Copia screams, thrusting into her hand desperately. She lets him do it, occasionally twisting her fist along the head. It doesn't take long before the Cardinal is spilling over her hand and the vanity, collapsing with pathetic little whines.

Cumulus knows he enjoys being held afterward, it's the security that does it for him. Unfortunately they can't do that in the dressing room. Instead she places a kiss on the nape of his neck, rubbing a soothing hand over his abused flesh. "Visit me tonight?"

Copia nods and later that night he finds himself in her warm embrace as she peppers his face with kisses

[draconscious]

a long overdue chat (feat. @earth-master mention 😊)

"Are you serious...KOGA?"

Clair sits bolt upright in the Den's secluded hot spring, splashing water everywhere as her blue eyes widen with incredulity through the steam. Frances, ever bashful and easily spooked, startles and makes a harried hushing motion with her hand. "Shh! Yes, Elite Four Koga. Giovanni. Together. Now keep it down, will you...?"

The heiress allows her aching shoulders to sink beneath the bubbles as she digests the latest gossip from Fran's much more successful meeting in Viridian.

"...Wow," is all she can really manage, decidedly numbed by this latest revelation. Come to think of it, she had never really met Koga in person before--just like the mythical tales maintained within Blackthorn's timeless archives, the Elite's mysterious existence had mainly been conveyed to her through story. Huh...

(She really needed to catch up with Janine again.)

Of course--while certainly surprising--Giovanni's relationship status isn't the only talking point on the pair's agenda today. A bright-eyed and enthusiastic Fran had returned from her trip with a new wealth of anti-poaching strategies, and Clair finally felt well enough to hear her out.

Empathy. Restorative education, justice and hospitality.

A few months ago, deep within the throes of a brutal winter, Clair wouldn't have entertained any of these suggestions for even a second. However, the changing of the seasons--and ensuing recovery from an ugly burnout-prompted breakdown--had thoroughly thawed out her soul. (Make no mistake--Clair hasn't mellowed at all, but now, she feels more focused than ever.)

In order to discover new solutions to Blackthorn's growing poaching problem, new paths needed to be tread...and she's finally ready to put in the legwork to do so. A severe, steadfast soul can still harbor an open mind, after all.

You see me as something profane. You won't acknowledge that I'm human. You barely acknowledge that you're human.

You barely acknowledge that you're human.

Giovanni's harsh words still ring in Clair's mind, and--even now--the truth leaves an awful taste in her mouth. It's always been so easy to lose herself to that infamous temper, that all-consuming dragonflame...but that raw anger wouldn't solve her problems. She'd spent all winter slowly, begrudgingly coming to that conclusion. (Honestly, restraint is probably something she'll have to grapple with for the rest of her life.)

Anger, pride, tradition...all of these aspects had informed the Blackthorn mythos since forever. Each new generation is taught from this imperfect mold, but only those who are willing to break free from it--Clair's grandfather, for example--seem to leave any lasting marks in the greater lore.

Living in the looming shadows of legends who came before...imitation feels so constraining, and Clair is growing tired of it. Sometimes, the past is just the past.

"Clair? Are you alright...?"

The heiress blinks hard, and Fran's worried face slides back into view. Dependable as ever, and a nice reminder. There's no need to go this transformative journey alone. She had Fran, and so many other allies in her corner. (Perhaps even Giovanni, if forgiveness is still on the table.)

"Mhm, just thinking," Clair mutters, refocusing on the matter at hand as the spring bubbles comfortingly around her neck. "Tell me more about these strategies, and how we can use them. You're...you're better with people than I am."

Fran brightens at the rare compliment, and immediately launches into her plans to visit Fuschia's Safari Zone. The resident Gym Leader can't help but grin at this display of enthusiasm--the protégé is all heart, and her attitude is contagious.

Difficult, slow work lies ahead, but it feels like it's finally time to break free of these outdated, violent cycles. Time to acknowledge the humanity within herself, and within others.

Outside the Den, the mountain flowers are in full bloom, and the swirling winds are thick with excitement over a regional festival looming on the horizon. (Who knows, Clair might actually go this year...)

The winds of change have arrived in Blackthorn, carrying more promise than ever.

[silksandcravats]

idk if this is too specific so sorry if it is but recently I've just been feeling like a burden to everyone I know and could use some comfort via fictional characters about it lmao, if it isn't too much to ask could you do something with flip comforting the reader that feels this way? sorry if its weird okaybye

A/N: Of course sweet anon! It’s not weird at all, I know the feeling! Hope this piece serves as a little pick-me-up!

masterlist

Summary: Flip’s girl is feeling down.

WARNINGS: just more soft Flip.

You couldn’t think of a worst time for the feeling to strike, but here you were staring at the floor, pretending to listen to the conversation around you. 

To be totally honest, you knew you weren’t in the right mindset for this gathering before you even left the house, you had only been seeing Flip for a couple of months but he always asks so little of you, and he does so much for you. So when he mentioned one of the guys from the station was hosting a barbeque and drinks, and that some girlfriends and wives were tagging along, you felt you had to be there for him.

You tried your hardest to play the part, even though you didn’t recognise many faces. You pushed a smile to your face as often as you could remember to, and you nodded along politely to anyone who reached out to try to make small talk with you, but you just couldn’t pick it up. 

After your third pity conversation failed, with a wife who probably only started talking to you because she noticed you standing alone and felt bad for you, you gave up and went to find Flip, feeling like a total failure. You couldn’t manage to make any friends and now he was going to have to deal with you, poor guy couldn’t get a break. Of course he didn’t do anything but smile when he saw you retreating back to him. 

“Hey honey,” he grinned, Coors in hand, he leaned over pressing a quick kiss to the side of your head, before returning to the conversation at hand. The gesture tugged at your heartstrings, I don’t deserve you, you thought sadly.

And now here you were staring at the floor, lost in thought. Thinking about how much space you took up in everyone’s lives. You felt like you’d been at the house decades, but really it couldn’t have been more than a couple of hours. 

“Honey?” Suddenly you were brought back to reality by Flip nudging your side. Your head snapped up looking at the little circle you had forced your way into. Shit. What had they been talking about?

“Sorry, what was that?” you asked.

“I said you ok there y/n?” asked one the woman standing next to Ron, Patrice? Was it?

“Oh, yeah, sorry, totally zoned out for a second, um, do you know where the restroom is?” You spit out. Yeah, that’s all you needed, you could go to the bathroom, pull yourself together, and then you’d be the best girlfriend you could for Flip.

“Down the hall, it’s the second door.” Another voice answered, pointing a beer towards the hall. You nodded, turning to walk away from the group, but before you could walk away Flip grasped your hand, squeezing it tightly.

“You okay sweetie?” He asked softly, leaning down slightly so only you could hear him. Your heart cracked, please don’t worry about me.

“Yeah, I’ll be right back, don’t worry.” You smiled, lying through your teeth. You looked at his face, he was frowning, looking at you sadly, he didn’t believe you. “Truly.” you squeezed his hand, before hurrying off.

You were happy to find the bathroom unoccupied. Closing the door quickly, you locked it and slid down to the floor, the tears came as soon as you were alone. Why’d you always have to ruin everything? You thought miserably. Why couldn’t you just play your part? Was it really so hard to follow along in a conversation? And now you’d probably embarrassed Flip, or stressed him out, the last thing he needed was more stress, he worked so hard and he deserved to just enjoy himself for once but you had ruined it. The thought made you cry harder, and you had to pull your arm over your mouth to muffle your sobs.

Suddenly the sharp sound of knuckles wrapping the door, and someone jiggling the locked doorknob interrupted you. Great, now someone had heard you. You held your breath and, not knowing how else to send the message that the toilet was occupied, you kicked the cabinet across from you softly, hoping whoever was outside would hear and seek out a different bathroom.

“y/n? It’s Flip, will you unlock the door please?” called the voice on the other side. Shit shit shit. You’d been caught mid-breakdown and now he was going to have to pick up the pieces, or maybe he’d just leave you already. Accepting defeat, you scooched over to the door, it unlocked with a soft click, and you scooted back to your old spot. You pressed the heels of your palms harshly against your eyes, trying to compose yourself as you heard the door open.

“Oh honey,” Flip cooed softly, closing the door behind him and locking it again. He crouched down in front of you, gently pulling your hands away from your face, holding them in his, running soft circles over the back of your hand with his thumb. “What happened?”

“I’m sorry, I’m so so sorry Flip.” You cried as fresh waves of tears trickle down your cheeks.

“What do you mean baby? Ain’t got nothing to be sorry for.” he reached up cupping the side of your face in one of his rough hands, gently wiping away your tears.

“I just,” you sniffle, “I just feel like such a burden Phil, you do so much for me and I can’t even do this one event for you without going and s-spoiling everything.” 

“Oh sweet girl, come here,” he moved, sitting against the wall, he tugged you into his lap, one hand found the back of your head cradling it in the crook of his neck, his other hand rubbing up and down your back, soothing you. “My sweet, sweet girl you couldn’t be more wrong.” you cried harder, clinging to him. “You do so much for me, you don’t even know, pumpkin. You’re so so good to me. Wish you weren’t so hard on yourself.” 

“But-but.” you hiccup.

“Shh, this is my fault baby I-”

“No!” You protested pulling away to look at him, you took a deep breath gathering your composure. “You didn’t do anything Flip, I’m just being ridiculous I-”

“Gorgeous, listen to me.” he interrupted, grabbing your face. “I don’t tell you enough how much you mean to me. You are so dear to me honey, you hear me?” he stared at you and you nodded. “And I am so proud of you.” he leaned forward, kissing your forehead, and you grabbed one of his arms, holding it fondly.

“Proud of me?”

“Mhmm.” he hummed, pulling back to look at you again, his hand wandered to your face, affectionately moving his knuckle up and down your cheekbone. “Saw you out there, mingling, making friends for me.” 

“I didn’t do a good job though,” you laughed sadly, looking away. “Had to give up and go running back to you.”

“I love when you come running to me baby, makes me feel loved,” he grins. “Hey, look at me?” you comply immediately. “You’re not a burden. Understand me? Couldn’t even be one if you wanted to. I love it when you let me in on your problems, ok? Love when you let me take care of you. You gotta promise to tell me next time you feel this way, got it?” you nod. “Promise?”

“I promise.” you wrapped your arms around his neck, hugging him again.

“That’s my girl.” he praised, pulling you tight to him, rocking the two of you back and forth, making you giggle. You sat like that for a moment longer, before he patted your thigh, signalling you up. You pulled yourself to one side, no longer straddling him. “Let’s get out of here,” he said, leaning against the wall to stand, pulling you up with him.

“We don’t have to.” You offered, still feeling the tiniest bit guilty. 

“I know,” he said leaning down to kiss you, “I want to.” 

[kathastrophen]

Love yourselves: 2021

(shh! It's definitely not already the 4th)

Rules: Filter to 2021 on your AO3 stats page, and answer some questions/ link some fics for everyone to enjoy! Tag 3 friends to do the same.

How many fics did you finish publish this year?: Nine! Plus three old ones I re-uploaded.

Least popular (by kudos): Alles zu seiner Zeit has the least kudos and hits.

Most enjoyable to write: Keine Liebeserklärung because it was so easy to write and my first proper fic in this fandom.

Most out of your comfort zone to write: Keine Privatsphäre - First of all I tried my hand at humor here and POVs I hadn't written before. That's also two of the reasons why it still isn't really finished.

I also wrote, but never published, a good chunk of stuff for The Terror and a single thing for Tatort Saarbrücken.

Fic you’re most proud of? Mag kein Alkohol - From the first draft to publishing it took me SIX f*cking years. It changed so much during writing (as in general tone and esp. the ending) and I'm really proud that I finished it in time with a set deadline. Also it comes with a pretty moodboard and a horrible playlist.

Tausend mal berührt is close second because it's so long, but it has it's weaknesses I'd really like to revisit.

Best fic you wrote or finished this year (in your opinion): Cheating here but: Chapter One and Five of Tausend Mal berührt. And I wrote Als wär's das erste Mal in 2021, which was super fun as well, because I had the idea for the AU for so long and finally found a way to put it into fic.

Anything you wrote that you think is underrated? Nah. The fandom is so small you can't underrate anyting in it.

If you want to do this - feel tagged ♥

[punkscowardschampions]

Rio & Buster

Rio: Are you back safely? Rio: and when can you come back home Buster: I was just about to message you saying I was Buster: Great minds, babe Buster: I'll be back at the end of the month for that reading week bullshit I told you about Rio: Good Rio: I mean, still sad but glad you're back Rio: that's not too bad Rio: I can do that Buster: I'm not sure I can Buster: I miss you already Buster: Even though I feel like I can also still feel you Rio: Trying to be brave, like Rio: I feel it too Rio: everything still smells of you, it's so nice Buster: My clothes do so I'm wearing them again, like Buster: Don't judge me if you see me, dad Rio: Baby Rio: Did you have a good time Buster: You know I had the best time Buster: With you Rio: Me too Rio: I'm glad we got to be alone, most of the time, like Buster: Me too Buster: I'm sure my mum ain't, but I don't care Rio: You did your nephew duties and saw the kid Rio: she want you on the night shift, like? Buster: She probably wanted me not to be quite so brazen about how much I missed you Buster: And what I was really home for Buster: I'm not sorry though Rio: Probably Rio: but I liked it Rio: a lot Buster: Yeah? Rio: You know I did Rio: or you need to come back so I can show you again Buster: I reckon I need to come back Buster: Right now Rio: Mmm Rio: Just avoid your mum and we'll be fine Buster: Easy Rio: you reckon? Rio: pretty dedicated to getting you to behave Buster: So are you Rio: Yeah Rio: don't want me coming for her 👑 Buster: I want you more than anything though Rio: I know Rio: You got me baby Buster: It wasn't enough time Rio: It never is Buster: Everything we did I need to do it more Rio: I need to do it all the time Buster: I love you Rio: I love you more Rio: can it be May already Rio: please Buster: Seriously Buster: I'm gonna go insane before then Rio: No you're not Rio: I won't let you Rio: you're gonna ace all your exams Buster: I can join my sister, twinning in therapy Buster: This house is so empty right now and it's such a waste Buster: You could be here, you should be Rio: Ooh, family therapy Rio: That'd be a moment Rio: I wish I was Rio: no fun coming back to an empty home if you can't make the most of it Buster: Imagine my fucking parents in a shrink's office Buster: Hilarious Buster: We can make the most of it still, just not exactly how I want Rio: The therapist would need therapy their self Rio: Fucking hell Rio: Yeah? Well that's something Buster: Nance is probably the only one of us who can handle it Buster: And she reckons she needs it most Rio: It's a good thing, right Rio: gotta want the help for it to work Buster: Yeah Buster: I just want her to be happy Buster: Like I am Rio: Yeah Rio: She will be baby Buster: You're happy too, yeah? Buster: Even though you don't have a flat yet Buster: And I'm gone again Rio: Of course I am Rio: I'm so happy it doesn't seem possible sometimes Buster: Good Buster: 'Cause you know you can tell me if there's anything Buster: I know shit's still in a state there Buster: And Edie isn't back Rio joined the chat 32 hours ago Rio: You can't make her come back Rio: no one can Rio: she will when she's ready Buster joined the chat 32 hours ago Buster: I know Buster: But I could talk to her again or some shit Buster: There's always things I can do, babe Rio: You reckon you're that convincing, yeah? Buster: 'Course Buster: You know I am Rio: You're cute Buster: 😏 Buster: Can I make you come back? Buster: That's all I want Rio: Hmm idk Rio: I remain unconvinced as of yet so Buster: [sends pics in his empty gaff] Buster: Yeah? Rio: Stop 😖 Rio: Tryna play hard to get here Buster: Why play hard to get when you can get on a plane for me, baby? Rio: I really wish I could Buster: You can Rio: Can I now? Buster: Please Rio: What was that, babe Buster: Rio Buster: Please Rio: 🤤 Rio: Jesus Buster: Say yes Rio: Yes Buster: See, it doesn't have to be hard Buster: We can play so nice Rio: How nice are we talking? Buster: Book a flight and find out Rio: Indie's taking the piss so hard Buster: Bring her Buster: It's not like we haven't been there before Rio: Nah, she finally staying in School Rio: and she loves the baby so she good Buster: Typical Buster: I bet Ro don't love the enthusiasm but I'm here for it Rio: Nah, but that's what she needs is people who won't take no for an answer otherwise she's gonna be weird about it Rio: s'why my mum was a good choice, plus Ro knows she can do it Rio: least that bit, once we get a personality she fucked it up obvs Buster: Yeah exactly Buster: Is Indie gonna stay there or with you lot still? Rio: I think here Rio: she's still not buzzin' off the idea of living with Ro Rio: who can blame her Buster: Not me Buster: I know Nance toyed with the idea but even she ain't that much of a martyr for the cause, like Buster: I'm flat hunting for you now, Indie'll be buzzing about that at least Rio: I don't think it's a good idea, the faster it gets back to normal the faster she'll get used to it Rio: if she wants 24hr care she knows what to do, like Rio: Well now I have to come Buster: Agreed, on all counts Buster: [sends some flat details] is this too far from Indie's comfort zone of the 24? Rio: I reckon she's ready for better Rio: it's really nice Rio: I need to work out how much I can afford pcm before we properly look though Buster: Maybe I should look nearer Ro's since she loves the kid so much Buster: Babe, you know I got you Rio: Yeah, that'd be nice for her actually Rio: assuming Drew sorts his shit, he'll also wanna be around there right Rio: big assumption but you never know Rio: and you aren't paying my rent, don't be stupid Buster: Where do you wanna live, baby? That's what matters to me Buster: And yeah I can, 'Cause then I get to move in Buster: Selfish always, remember Rio: Then you can pay your half, no more Rio: nearer actual Dublin Rio: it's only half an hour but it'll make a difference Buster: Yeah Buster: Do you like this one? [Another listing] it's a bit small but Rio: How many people you planning on moving in? 😂 Buster: I'm not trying to live in a shoe box Buster: You know how many clothes I own, yeah? Rio: Such a diva 😏 Buster: You love me Rio: Good thing too Buster: Are you not gonna say it? Rude Rio: Find a better flat and I might 😉 Buster: So high maintenance Buster: But fine Buster: I actually like this one [A good flat] Rio: That's a good one Rio: I should go see that Rio: it's so difficult to get places in town you have to move fast, like Buster: I'll call 'em now Buster: Use my posh voice Rio: Bit rude insinuating you got more clout than me 'cos I'm common but okay Buster: Shut up Buster: If you wanna seduce an old lady to get a decent home then go ahead Buster: I know when my heroics aren't wanted Rio: Awh baby Rio: Please Rio: you know I love you Buster: Yeah yeah Rio: 💔 Rio: boo Buster: Shh I'm on the phone Buster: So busy and important Rio: 😣 Fine Rio: Be like that Buster: 😂 Buster: Tell me you love me again Rio: Only if you love me back Buster: Baby Buster: I adore you Rio: Good Rio: 'cos I love you too Buster: The woman is gonna phone you tomorrow about when you can view the flat so let me know, like Rio: I'm excited Buster: Take pics for me Rio: Of course Rio: Oh shit Rio: are we allowed pets Buster: It didn't say anywhere that you weren't, which I feel like she would have mad a big deal of if not? Rio: Let's hope so Rio: it's pretty well-trained Rio: better than Indie lbr Buster: I'm glad you said it Rio: Don't be mean now Buster: How I am being mean, you said it, I'm just agreeing, like Rio: Shh Rio: I'm allowed Rio: you're the one that reckons you can live with her 😏 Buster: That's just how much I wanna live with you Rio: Yeah? Buster: Yeah Rio: I wanna live with you too Rio: a lot Buster: I'm just saying it so we don't have to meet my mum on the stairs Buster: Though that'll be good Rio: Yeah, anything I can do to not be her least favourite person, like Buster: You're not her least fave person Buster: That's Drew and then Ro Rio: Coming in 3rd is not okay Rio: go big or go home Rio: rather be off the list, like Buster: Come on Buster: You're not on the list Buster: Chlo is but not you Rio: Well Rio: that's even worse Buster: Do you want her to hate you? Rio: I'm mad she's thinking about Chloe more than me Rio: Offensive Buster: I'm not getting you pregnant so you can switch places on the list Rio: Shut up Buster: I didn't reckon that needed to be said but here we are Rio: You're an idiot Buster: And you miss me Rio: Not that much Rio: don't worry Buster: Good to know Rio: Only so many scandals before the inevitable intervention Buster: There should be a list of people in this fam who need one before we do, like Rio: Yeah but you know Rio: we the oldest, gotta set a good example Buster: Technically Nance is older than me Rio: You reckon we off the hook then? Rio: Soz, babe 🤷 Buster: If only Buster: I have so much homework to do and I can feel my mum's judgement from Dublin Rio: Poor boy Rio: Gotta let you focus then Buster: Don't Buster: I won't be able to stop thinking about you if we aren't talking Rio: Okay, I'll have to come at you with facts Rio: walking encyclopedia Buster: You're such a cute nerd Rio: Oi Rio: Don't get distracted Buster: It's not my fault you're adorable Rio: Shh or I'll whip out my serious face Buster: Yeah? Buster: I wouldn't be mad about it Rio: [Dorky selfie] Rio: I warned you Buster: I'm keeping that forever Rio: Of all the pictures Buster: Well, I can't show most of them to anyone else Buster: But that one I can Rio: 😒 BABE Buster: 😂 Rio: So mean Rio: I look so stupid you better not Buster: [Takes own ridiculous selfie] Buster: We're even now Rio: You're so fair Rio: and cute Rio: I miss you Buster: I love you Rio: I love you Rio: It'd be amazing if we had a place for when you come back end of the month Buster: That's my plan, babe Buster: Then we can be as loud as we want Rio: Good Rio: we're gonna need to Buster: I know Buster: No interruptions except Indie's cute dog Rio: Hey Rio: I want all your attention though 😔 Buster: Poor baby Buster: I promise you've got it Rio: I better Rio: or I gotta work harder Buster: Believe me, I'm so focused on you right now I've read the same page like 5 times Rio: I don't know how you get anything done forreal Buster: You motivate me as well as distract me Buster: You know it Rio: I hope so Buster: You do Buster: Everything I'm doing now is for us later Rio: You're going to be so good at your job Buster: I'm gonna be so good for you too Buster: Everything's gonna work out perfect Rio: I know Rio: and I'm having some ideas too Rio: for what I'm gonna do long term Buster: Yeah? Buster: Tell me Rio: Well, it was talking to your sister that gave me the idea Rio: and all the time I been spending at the gay clubs Rio: obviously I'll have to work out the logistics, start small and make all the connections along the way Rio: but there's no big company like the pornhub people, who make like Rio: actual decent stuff, for everyone, with all kinds of different people in it Rio: I wanna do something like that, and maybe have a IRL club too, similar vibe Buster: Fuck Buster: That's such a good idea, Rio Rio: You think so? Rio: I've been thinking on it for a while, like why not, there's a huge gap in the market, especially for women, like so many girls don't like porn because half of it is lowkey so abusive towards the women like Rio: they don't wanna see that Buster: You're so right Buster: And so smart Rio: I'm gonna try and make it happen Rio: why not me, yeah? Rio: the pornhub guy was just some kid, mark zuckerberg, whatever Buster: Exactly Buster: And you know I'll help you Buster: Whatever you need Rio: Thanks, baby Rio: I know it'll take time but I already know lots of other camgirls and pole dancers and all sorts Rio: Maybe they'll be into it Buster: And you got time Buster: No half measures, yeah? Buster: If you're gonna do it, do it well Rio: Definitely Rio: Let's be real, I make enough from my streaming alone, never mind with a club job too Rio: I just wanna be doing more, making it into something Buster: Yeah Buster: You know I fucking love money but you gotta do something you give a shit about too Buster: Everything with passion, like Buster: Or why bother Rio: Exactly Rio: I knew you'd understand Rio: I know some people won't like it but just the people that already don't like what I do Rio: so Buster: Fuck them Buster: You can do this and if you wanna you will Buster: You don't even need me for it but you got me Rio: I love you Rio: you get me Buster: I always have and I always will, babe Buster: On both counts Rio: I'm so happy Rio: I know I'm ignoring so much shit but Rio: it ain't mine so sorry everyone Buster: You're allowed Buster: You've literally spent so long taking on theirs too Rio: It's not like I don't care but Rio: it's exhausting, everyone is burning out Rio: that's why I'm glad Nance is doing something about it, for her Rio: we are too, just different Buster: Yeah me too Buster: Uni will help Nance as well 'cause I reckon she'll go further afield like Buster: New people and new shit is what she needs Rio: Yeah, definitely Rio: School is just shit, and really shit for some people Rio: she'll thrive when everyone on her course is nerding on the same stuff, it's how it is Buster: Exactly Rio: like my baby Buster: You're cute Rio: I'm serious Rio: Imagine having friends actually on your level Rio: well, nearly Buster: I was gonna say Buster: You're the only one on my level, babe Rio: Too right Rio: only so much room at the top lads Buster: You're making me miss you so much Rio: I know Rio: but I can't come see you now, gotta get us our place baby Buster: I really hope you like it Buster: Then I'll make it happen for us Rio: As long as it's got two rooms and isn't in a shithole, like Rio: doing better than I was so Rio: but I'll make sure it's worth the price Buster: I know you will Buster: You got this Rio: I can't believe we get to have all this Buster: I can't believe I get to be with you Buster: Everything else is just a bonus, like Rio: I know Rio: it's the best Buster: I'm gonna marry you and we're gonna have our own house Buster: So soon Buster: But as stepping stones go, this is such a good one Rio: Yeah Rio: Agreed Rio: but now I'm too excited to do anything useful with the rest of my day Rio: oops Buster: Feel free to distract me Buster: I won't tell my mum Buster: That's always very useful to me Rio: 😏 Rio: Glad to know you've got the bragging under control, babe Buster: Less of a brag more of a death wish if I go chatting to her Buster: But cheers Rio: Best not then Rio: need you to stick around, like Buster: I'm not going anywhere Rio: Promise Buster: On the life you want me to keep living Rio: I hope that doesn't cancel it out Rio: got my maths brain worried but good Buster: There's nothing to worry about Buster: Everything's going good for us, babe Rio: Yeah Rio: suspect but not gonna question it Buster: Good Buster: Don't Rio: 🤐 Rio: see? Buster: You're not planning to keep quiet on anything else, are you? Rio: Not unless you want me to Rio: but then you gotta make me like so Buster: That's not what I want Rio: Then I won't Buster: I want you to be loud enough that I forget I'm alone here Rio: Sure between us we can make that happen Buster: Call me Rio: [Call] Buster: I'm speechless now Rio: Yeah, fuck Rio: at least you can concentrate 'cos imma need a minute Buster: I'm gonna need a while too Buster: Jesus Rio: How'd you get so good Buster: Take your share of the credit Buster: Not just for teaching me how to kiss, like Rio: Happily Rio: I love you baby Buster: I love you too Buster: Do you reckon there'll ever be a time when we don't crave each other like this? Are we gonna turn into one of those couples who just sit on their phones or read in bed together or some shit? Rio: Nah Rio: that ain't ever gonna be us Rio: not that I don't like just being with you but even then I wanna be WITH you, like you holding me and stuff Rio: or what's the point Buster: Good 'cause same Buster: I wanna kiss you all the time never mind anything else Rio: There'd be something wrong if you didn't Rio: everything I do is so you'll want me Rio: not gonna just give up one day, not that bitch Buster: Me either Buster: Never Rio: That's alright then Rio: Not saying I'd be serving you papers for bed death but well Rio: have to take up knitting or something and fuck that Buster: 😂 Buster: You can only serve me papers if I lose my hair Buster: 'Cause you know Rio: Priorities Rio: Why else would I be with ya? Buster: Obviously Buster: That and this body, which you know, also could go Rio: Nah, totally impartial to a dad bod 😜 Buster: Good to know Rio: 😂 Rio: Go on then Rio: what's my side of the bargain, what have I gotta keep up or go, like Buster: Just don't let your little sister straighten your hair, ever Buster: Leave it to my sister to be her guinea pig, like Rio: Right, do my best to avoid her advances Rio: shouldn't be too hard 😏 Buster: That's all I ask Buster: You don't look like you and I love you so Rio: Babe Rio: You're too sweet for words Buster: Shh Buster: You're too beautiful for words Rio: You shh Rio: Silly Buster: I'm honest and smart, excuse you Rio: Buster McKenna, in his own words, everyone 😋 Buster: Nah, if I was summing myself up I could do way better Buster: I'm just saying I'm right about how stunning you are Rio: Don't let me stop you, babe Rio: Be there with the applause and everything Buster: Behave Rio: Can't make me Buster: Well, we both know THAT'S not true, babe Rio: 😣 Buster: Poor baby Rio: Be nice to me Buster: Say please Rio: 😠 Don't wanna Rio: don't you remember how nice I was to you on that call Buster: Of course I do Buster: I want you to keep being nice to me Buster: That's all Buster: I'll say it first Buster: Please Rio: I'm just playing baby Rio: I always wanna be nice Rio: please please please Buster: You don't always have to Buster: But okay Rio: I know Rio: I just like being nice to you Buster: Me too Rio: Feels good Rio: doesn't it Buster: Very Rio: How's it possible that I feel so rested when we barely got any sleep whilst you were here? Buster: I know what you mean Buster: Maybe it's like you said, 'cause we sleep so much better when we're together Rio: Yeah Rio: it's gonna be hard tonight Buster: I'll call you again Buster: We can stay on the line together Rio: Yeah Rio: I'll just miss feeling you Rio: it's always worst when you've just gone Rio: not that it's ever that good but you know Buster: I know, baby Buster: I feel it too Buster: But we can do this Rio: We can Rio: it's gonna be so worth it Rio: we ain't gonna even remember this bullshit soon Rio: when we're together always Buster: Exactly Buster: And then anywhere I have to go you can come with me Buster: And vice versa Rio: Yeah Rio: and we're going to go everywhere, right? Buster: 'Course Rio: Starting this summer Rio: if I can ever narrow down my choices Buster: How long is the list? Rio: [Sends various links to places, one of being Brazil 'cos they should go to Brazil] Buster: I reckon that's doable Buster: I have a long summer, like Rio: 😏 World tour is it? Buster: Why not? Buster: Which place do you wanna get married in? Rio: I'm going to Milan with Nance, for one Rio: I don't know when she wants to go Rio: Are you serious? Buster: Get that scheduled in first, obviously Buster: She needs a holiday too Buster: I meant it when I said we should get married now and then again later, yeah Buster: And that I'd marry you anywhere in the world Rio: I mean Rio: It'd be special for me to do it in Brazil Buster: Then let's do it Rio: Yeah? Buster: Yeah Rio: There's gotta be a catch Buster: What? Rio: There's no way I can just get everything I want Rio: it's crazy Buster: You deserve it Buster: That's enough of a reason Rio: Baby Buster: Yeah? Rio: Nothing Rio: it just trips me out that this is my life Buster: It's not too much, right? Buster: It's not too much, right? Buster: We don't have to do this Rio: No, that's not what I'm saying Rio: it's perfect, it's everything Rio: I just can't believe it's real, still Buster: Good 'cause I'm really fucking happy about it all Rio: That's all I need to hear Rio: if you're happy I'm happy babe Buster: I mean, I'd be happier if we were together in this flat right now but Buster: Patience is a virtue, like Rio: 😇 Rio: Polish that halo, boy Buster: 😏 Rio: I can't wait for some actual privacy Rio: I forgot how constant this house is, always someone about, good and bad thing Buster: I can't believe I'm saying this but I can't wait to have people around Buster: Even if one of them is Indie Rio: You love her really Buster: 🤐 Buster: Saying nothing, like Buster: I don't want you to fight me Rio: Sure, that's what it is 😜 Buster: Shh Rio: The feeling's mutual, it's okay baby Buster: Well yeah Buster: I'm very loveable Rio: Not gonna argue, like Rio: can't Buster: I know Rio: 😏 Buster: Make me do this fucking essay 'cause you're an angel and I don't want to Rio: No problem Rio: How boring is it, scale 1-10 like, what am I up against here Buster: Like 7 Buster: But it's only 3500 word count Buster: I'm aware I could piss that out before you say but Rio: I'm not gonna say that baby Rio: Break it down into 500, that's 7 rewards you got coming your way Rio: every one will be better than the last, go go go, like Rio: Lemme send you something for motivation to get going Buster: I knew you'd be full of good ideas Rio: It's been known Rio: [Snap] Buster: Babe Rio: That doesn't count toward your word count, you know Buster: It should Rio: It counts toward making me miss you more Buster: I'll take that Rio: You done 500? Buster: 600 actually Rio: Damn Rio: get you Rio: now I'm behind in your rewarding, hold up Buster: Ready when you are, babe Rio: [Snap] Buster: Who could refuse an offer like that? Not me Rio: Good, cos I'm omw so Rio: kinda gutting if I'm working out for nothing 😜 Buster: Don't worry I'm already on 800 Buster: Easy when you find your focus, like Rio: Easy when you so smart Buster: Even easier when my girl is so sexy Rio: All for you daddy Buster: You're so generous, baby Rio: Nah, you earning it with every word you write, like Buster: You haven't read it, it might be shite Rio: Well, it won't 'cos you're incapable of being crap at anything, one Rio: but two, I ain't marking it, boy, just seeing you get it done Rio: that was my job Buster: Yeah yeah, you're the one getting graded this time, I know Buster: Scoring for making me blush with that compliment Rio: You know you're good baby Rio: and you know how good I think you are Buster: But do you know how good you are? Rio: Hmm, tell me again Buster: You're the best Buster: My angel Rio: 😻 Rio: Gonna shh with how you're making me feel 'cos not here to be distracting right now Buster: I just hit 1000 you can be as distracting as you want Buster: Tell me Rio: Fuck Rio: It's legitimately such a turn-on how hard you work, no playing Buster: Yeah? Rio: Seriously Rio: like, I want you to finish up so you can fuck me just as hard but also I just wanna support you whilst you do your thing Rio: so whipped Buster: Are you gonna be mad if I take a sec to think about that? Rio: No, you're allowed to take time to enjoy all your rewards Buster: Good 'cause the idea of fucking you in the gym right now is very rewarding Rio: Barely anyone is here, we so could Rio: afterwards, when we're all hot and sweaty and pumped up Buster: It could be full of people and I still would Rio: That's why I love you Rio: just thinking about you working out and I'm needy so if I actually had you here you'd have to fuck me no matter what Buster: I can't ever get over how much you want me Buster: Just thinking about how you're feeling is making me so turned on Rio: How could I not Rio: look at you you're perfect Rio: I'm glad no one is here because you can tell I'm horny just by looking at me Buster: You're perfect Buster: And I wish I was there Rio: Me too, maybe you could show me how to use some of these machines, so you could shamelessly check me out Buster: You know it Rio: but for now, I'll be here dreaming, you get back to writing Buster: Less dreaming more working out, babe Rio: 🤤 Rio: that's not helping Buster: You gotta work up a sweat for me one way or another Buster: And since I'm here being a busy nerd Rio: You're right Rio: I'm on it baby Buster: Yeah you are Buster: Thinking about that has me taking layers off Buster: In the kitchen topless again Rio: Oh God Rio: Daddy 😩 Rio: Thinking about that has me grinding up on this seat Buster: [Sends pics] Buster: I reckon you've earned these Rio: How do I earn more damn Buster: Keep doing what you're doing, babe Buster: 200 words until I reach my next target Rio: Then you're over half way Rio: 🙌 you get something special for that one Buster: Spoilers? Rio: Maybe I brought the toy and maybe I want you to use the app Rio: Get to have me here after-all Buster: Fuck Rio: and maybe when you finish you get to see the video so you know exactly how you had me Rio: sound good? Buster: So good Buster: You really do think of everything, yeah? Rio: I try Buster: You try so hard, baby Buster: I know it and I appreciate it Rio: 😊 Rio: You're so fucking nice and even that's turning me on right now I just need you, Buster Buster: I love you Buster: And don't worry 'cause I try too so we're at the necessary word count, baby Rio: Yay Rio: I knew you'd come through for me Buster: Always Rio: It was getting so hard to concentrate at the end there Buster: For me too Rio: So proud of you 😋 Buster: I'm prouder of you Buster: [Goes hard with this app 'cause no chill ever] Rio joined the chat 5 hours ago Rio: Well fuck Rio: I'm dead Buster: Poor baby Rio: You're not even a little bit sorry Buster: Should I be? Buster: I don't reckon so Rio: 😏 Rio: At least feel bad for me 'cos I've gotta somehow drive home now Rio: legs are so weak from how bad you got me shaking Buster: You know I'd come and get you if I could Rio: Yeah, you love carrying me Buster: Don't act like you don't love it too Rio: 👑 don't walk, babe Buster: Are you gonna offer to carry me then? 😏 Rio: Are YOU trying to kill us both? I'm sorry but you too big Rio: but you can be little spoon sometimes and I won't tell nobody Buster: 😂 Rio: Don't act like you don't love it, babe Rio: 😉 Buster: Being little spoon or you being the tiniest human ever? Rio: Both Rio: although I doubt and take offence to the latter statement, thank you Buster: You're so cute 👼 Buster: A tiny baby angel Rio: and you're my daddy, you make me feel so safe and protected and Buster: God, I miss you Buster: I wanna be with you not stuck in this kitchen with this boring essay Rio: I can't believe you only just left Rio: it feels forever Buster: Yeah Buster: Come get in my lap and kiss me Buster: That's all I want Rio: Me too Rio: Maybe I will if I've got good news to tell you 'bout the flat Buster: It'll be good news Buster: I feel it Rio: 🤞 Buster: 🍀 Rio: Thanks Buster: What for? Rio: Just being you Rio: that was lame Rio: but I felt it Buster: Are you trying to make me blush again? Rio: Is it working Rio: then yes Buster: [sends cute selfie as proof] Rio: 😲😍💀 Rio: Reaction, in order, bye Buster: 😂 Buster: I'll let you show that one around then Rio: It's just for me Rio: tryna 'cause chaos out here no Buster: You're funny Rio: You better not be showing your blushes 'round Rio: 😠 Buster: I'm only doing it around you so you better make sure we're alone Rio: That's the plan Buster: Good Buster: You know I like the way you think Rio: What else you like about me? Buster: Oh you want the list now, yeah? Rio: .. Rio: Please 😋 Buster: I like how well you can keep up with me and get me Buster: Especially as I approach 2k on this essay Buster: You're so much fun Buster: But also such a fucking adorable nerd Rio: I love you Rio: so fucking much Buster: How much? Buster: What are you gonna do for me as my next reward? Rio: Well, gotta wait 'til I get home Rio: and I'm stuck in traffic 🙄 Buster: I'll put my feet up then Buster: Or keep going and get double? Rio: Who are you if you don't try Buster: Nicely done, babe Buster: Alright Rio: [Snap] Rio: home again home again Buster: I don't know what to say Buster: You're so Rio: but you don't hate it, yeah? Buster: I love it, Rio Rio: Good Rio: I like having as many reminders of you as possible Buster: I love it too Buster: Maybe I should ask Indie who did her tattoo for her, like Rio: 😏 Yeah yeah Buster: You think I'm playing? Rio: Are you? Buster: Probably not gonna go to whoever Indie went to but Buster: I could always ask your mum to do it, yeah? Rio: God knows who tatted a 14 year old, but I don't think it is a recc or to their credit, like 😑 Rio: You could, depends what you want really Buster: Exactly Rio: Although I don't think I can let this happen Rio: you're already too hot, if you get tatted up I might not survive Buster: 😏 Buster: All the incentive I need Rio: Should I be worried? Rio: I'm meant to be pushing you off cliffs for the 💸 Buster: 😂