#it’s been 11 years and he yet I am still in awe of

[smracaraihc]

D.O. and Suhyun - Rewrite the stars cover

(their duet starts at 1:49)

[ra-vio]

this blog is 11 years old now 🎉

I drew the siblings ever to celebrate as usual

[hivemuthur]

What was that? - Ch. 11.

viktorxfemale!OFC explicit!

friends to lovers, co-workers, sexual tension up to the wazoo, pinning and banter that got me frustrated when I was writing it, attempt at humour, some angst and a slow burn with a happy ending and a classic Viktor for once

Ch.1. | Ch.2. | Ch.3. | Ch.4. | Ch.5. | Ch.6. | Ch.7. | Ch.8. | Ch.9. | Ch.10. | Ch.12. | Ch.13. | Ch.14. | Ch.15.

word count: 5,8K

tag: #what was that

author’s note: @rennethen as beta reader

Cross-posted on AO3

—

“Do you think Jayce knows?” Renly asked as they strolled leisurely toward the lab.

It was still an odd sensation—walking hand-in-hand with Viktor. His grip was warm, steady, and confident, so matter-of-fact about it, as if this had been their routine for years rather than a startlingly new development. Meanwhile, Renly couldn’t help but feel a little silly. Every now and then, she glanced at him, half-expecting to catch some flicker of hesitation or second-guessing, but no. Viktor had made his choice, and once he decided something, well… it was decided.

“I certainly hope not yet,” Viktor replied dryly, his cane tapping lightly against the cobblestones. “As that would mean he spied on us yesterday, and that would be, how do you say it… disturbing.” The last word rolled off his tongue with a deliberate care that sent a shiver through her thoughts, and Renly silently filed it away.

“But” he continued, “I suppose he might suspect, given our shared absence.”

Renly’s lips curled into a mischievous grin. “Should we have some fun with him?”

Viktor turned his head to glance at her, his amber eyes sharp with amusement. “I am open to many… perversions, Renly,” he said with an exaggerated air of innocence, “but are you already bored with just me?”

Renly’s step faltered as her face flamed red. She gaped at him, scandalized. “Viktor!”

He didn’t even try to hide his smirk. “Ah, there it is,” he remarked with a soft chuckle, his gaze lingering on the blush creeping up her neck to her cheeks in record time.

She slapped his chest lightly, laughing despite herself. “I am very much entertained, thank you very much,” she said, recovering her composure. “But I’ll remember that comment in case you stop proving sufficient.” Her grin was merciless now.

Viktor chuckled nervously, running a hand through his hair. “I fear that one day, I will dig my own grave.” Then, with a sidelong glance, his eyes glinting with amusement, he added, “What does the cunning fox have in mind this time?”

Renly’s mouth opened, ready with a response, but she froze mid-thought, her brow furrowing. “Wait—hold on. That happened twice already! Are you implying that I’m some kind of chaos wrecker?”

“Implying?” Viktor tilted his head, his expression maddeningly composed. “I believe the evidence speaks for itself. What I am implying,” he continued smoothly, “is merely that your name suits you very well.”

Renly blinked, puzzled. “What do you mean, my name suits me? What’s that supposed to mean?”

Viktor smirked faintly; his steps measured as they continued down the path. “Ah, so you are unfamiliar with Reynard the Fox?”

“Reynard the what now?” she asked, amused by the sudden detour into what she was sure was one of Viktor’s infamous tangents.

“A trickster,” he began, the amusement in his tone carefully layered with affection. “From old tales. Reynard is a fox known for wit, cunning, and the ability to outsmart everyone around him. A trickster god, if you like. Quite fitting, no?”

Renly’s mouth fell open in exaggerated offense, though her eyes sparkled. “Are you calling me a god, Viktor? Because I’ll take that. But the trickster part? Absolutely not.”

Viktor chuckled softly, shaking his head. “I am only relaying facts, Renly. I cannot be blamed if the description happens to align so well with you.”

She laughed, shoving his shoulder lightly. “Oh, you’re awful. I can’t believe you know something about me that I didn’t even know.”

“Useless knowledge, perhaps,” he quipped, though his voice softened as he glanced down at her. “But it is knowledge nonetheless, and it suits you better than you may think.”

Renly tilted her head, her expression playful but thoughtful. “You know,” she said, her voice growing quieter, “maybe there’s something to that. The power of the names we’re given. After all…” Her gaze flicked to his hand, still wrapped around hers. “You are victorious at everything you do.”

Viktor faltered, her words clearly catching him off guard. His hand tightened gently around hers as he slowed his pace, the faintest smile curling his lips. “You are much too kind,” he murmured, though his tone carried a tinge of disbelief, as if he were still trying to convince himself of the truth in her words.

“I’m just being honest,” Renly said, her voice steady. “And if there’s one thing I know, it’s that I trust what I see with my own eyes. You take the world apart and put it back together in ways no one else can. That’s something only you can do, Viktor.”

He stopped then, turning to face her fully, his amber eyes softer than she’d ever seen. “Victorious, hmm?” he murmured. “Perhaps. But you give me too much credit, Renly. I do not always create—I destroy, too.”

She stepped closer, brushing a strand of hair from his forehead. “Then let me remind you that even gold has to be melted down and shaped before it becomes something beautiful. And you, Viktor,” she added, her voice warm, “are the most beautiful thing I’ve ever known.”

His gaze lingered on hers for a moment, searching, before he leaned down to press a tender kiss to her temple. “You are unfairly good at this,” he whispered against her skin.

“At what?” she teased.

“Making me believe.” They stood there for a few seconds, their closeness lingering in the quiet space between them. Renly could feel the steady beat of his heart, the warmth of his presence grounding her in a way that felt almost impossible to explain. Her breath softened as she looked up at him, finding something infinitely reassuring in the calm of his gaze.

“Renly,” Viktor murmured, his voice low, “as much as I enjoy this... we still have a task at hand.”

She raised an eyebrow, amused by the sudden shift. “And what might that be?”

Viktor’s smirk returned, his hand slipping gently from hers as he took a small step back. “How should we make Jayce’s day hard?”

Renly entered the lab first, moving briskly toward the kitchen area where Jayce had already brewed a fresh coffee pot. She poured herself a cup, trying to settle into the routine of the day, though her mind was still tangled with the tension of their little, evil plan. As she stirred the coffee, Jayce walked in, his expression warm but slightly hesitant.

“How are you doing today?” he asked, his voice light as he grabbed a cup of his own.

Renly gave him a quick smile, though her eyes stayed focused on the swirling liquid. “Fine,” she said, her tone neutral, avoiding eye contact. “Busy, as always. You know how it is.” She was distant, too distant for Jayce’s liking, but he didn’t press further.

Just then, Viktor entered, his footsteps steady but measured. He offered a polite nod toward Jayce and Renly but said nothing more. The coolness in the air shifted as he moved toward the counter, taking his place beside Renly.

“Morning,” Viktor greeted them both, his voice calm, but there was a subtle weight in the air that hinted at the unresolved tension between them.

Renly offered a polite but stiff, “Morning,” before she took a sip of her coffee, avoiding his gaze. Viktor didn’t miss the hesitation, but he didn’t comment. Instead, he reached for the coffee pot, filling his own mug.

Jayce, noticing the awkward atmosphere, tried to salvage the conversation. “So... any updates on those samples from last week?” he asked, leaning against the counter, his eyes flicking between them. “I was thinking you might need to tweak a few variables if we want to get accurate readings. I can help?”

Renly sighed, setting her mug down on the counter a little too forcefully. “Tweak? You mean redo them, right? Because the last set was, well... not perfect.” Her voice had a bite to it, though it was disguised as casual irritation.

Viktor’s head snapped up, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly. “You can’t expect perfection from the first try.” His voice was sharp, but measured, his irritation hidden beneath a layer of composure.

Renly scoffed, crossing her arms. “Why, of course, silly me. Trusting the years of my education and experience...” She rolled her eyes dramatically, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Viktor’s brow furrowed, his posture stiffening. “If you had waited for the data to process properly instead of rushing ahead, maybe we’d have a clearer picture,” he snapped, the sharpness in his tone now unmistakable.

Renly raised an eyebrow. “Rushing? I was being efficient,” she countered, leaning slightly toward him. “Maybe someone should try not to overcomplicate things.”

The words hung in the air for a beat, tension crackling between them as Jayce stood awkwardly at the counter, watching them both. He cleared his throat, trying to cut through the palpable discomfort. “Hey, hey—guys, we’re all on the same team here, right?” He forced a smile, but it was weak and faltering as he glanced between them, feeling the rift grow wider.

Viktor and Renly both shot him looks, their expressions stiff as they stood on opposite sides of the kitchen island, their energy clashing.

“I’m just saying—” Renly started, but Viktor cut her off.

“You’re just saying a lot of things,” he shot back, his tone becoming sharper. “It’s a pattern, Renly. Sometimes, I wonder if you ever listen to anything I say to you.”

Renly’s breath hitched, and for a moment, there was a flicker of something softer in her expression. “You really think that? That’s rich coming from the guy who thinks he has all the answers of the universe.” Her voice was low, but there was a sting in it.

Viktor’s jaw clenched, but he didn’t respond. The silence in the kitchen felt heavy, suffocating.

Jayce could feel the tension between them thickening. He forced a smile, hoping to steer them back to neutral ground. “Alright, alright. We’re getting off track here,” he said, glancing at both of them. “We’re here to get work done, not argue.”

Renly let out a sharp breath, clearly frustrated, but she didn’t engage with Viktor any further. Instead, she stood up abruptly and headed toward the lab. However, as she reached the door, she paused, turning back with a mischievous smile.

“Ah, one more thing,” she said, her voice soft but full of purpose as she approached Viktor’s chair. Leaning over him, she grabbed his jaw firmly—just enough to make him stiffen, though he didn’t flinch.

She pressed a quick, almost teasing kiss to his lips before pulling away, her grin wide and unrepentant. “You’re cute, you know that?”

Jayce froze. His heart skipped a beat, and for a split second, everything seemed to stop. His mind raced, trying to piece together what had just happened, what he’d just witnessed. His eyes widened as the realization slammed into him—slow, undeniable, and crushing.

He opened his mouth to speak but found that the words wouldn’t come. The tension in the room seemed to stretch forever before he finally muttered, his voice thick with disbelief, “I... hate you both so much.”

Jayce’s eyes narrowed as he looked between them, still frozen in disbelief. “How could you do this to me?” he exclaimed, clutching his chest dramatically. “I almost had a heart attack!”

Renly, now sitting back down with her coffee, couldn’t help but smirk. She let her fingers brush against Viktor’s hand in a casual but deliberate motion, feeling a small spark at the contact. It wasn’t obvious, but Viktor’s gaze softened for a split second before he masked it with a smirk of his own.

Viktor leaned back in his chair, looking at Jayce with a raised eyebrow. “I don’t think I could’ve been much of a threat, Jayce. But don’t worry, you’ll survive.”

Jayce looked back at them, a mix of exasperation and begrudging affection flickering in his eyes. “Yeah, yeah, laugh it up,” he muttered. “I’m just happy for you two, really. I mean, it’s nice to see you finally getting your act together.” He paused, adding with mock trepidation, “But I’m now genuinely afraid of your combined power. It’s... terrifying.”

Renly chuckled, swirling her coffee absentmindedly. “Oh, it’s not so bad, Jayce. It’s actually a good balance. You should try it sometime.”

Jayce rolled his eyes, shaking his head. “I’ll pass on the emotional chaos.” He paused, then smirked. “Still, I’ll give you this—at least you’re not running off with Viktor’s lab notes anymore. That was a genuine concern.”

Viktor’s lips twitched at Jayce’s jab, but he couldn’t resist a smirk. “It wasn’t my idea, Jayce. The mastermind behind this entire setup,” he gestured between himself and Renly, “is all Renly’s doing.”

Jayce raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms over his chest with a playful, mocking frown. “I don’t see this excuse working with the enforcers, Viktor,” he said, his voice laced with exaggerated suspicion. “They’ll still throw you in the holding cells if they catch wind of this.”

Renly gasped dramatically, her hand flying to her chest in mock horror. “What is this? So quick to sell me out?” she exclaimed, shaking her head with playful outrage. “I thought we were partners in crime, Viktor!”

Viktor looked at her deadpan, a glint of mischief in his eyes. “I only reveal the truth when it benefits me, my dear. And as much as I appreciate your... ingenuity, I would rather not be implicated in your schemes.”

Renly narrowed her eyes, pretending to be insulted. “So, what’s the plan, then? You’re going to throw me under the bus and leave me to face the consequences alone?”

Viktor leaned back slightly, clearly enjoying the banter. “If the bus fits…”

Renly shot him an amused look. “Oh, you’re so charming, Viktor.”

Jayce chuckled, unable to hold back. “Alright, alright, I’ve heard enough. I officially claim the title of architect of this monstrosity,” he said, waving his hand between the two of them. “The terrifying, unstoppable power couple. It’s all my doing, my creation.”

Viktor raised an eyebrow, not entirely convinced. “You may have played a part, but I assure you, Jayce, the true danger lies in Renly’s influence.”

Renly gave him an exaggerated wink. “Don’t worry, Jayce. The true architect might be you, but the real power? All Viktor’s doing.”

Jayce groaned, rubbing his forehead with mock exhaustion. “Just please, for the love of all things sacred, don’t do this again. And, for the love of Hextech, don’t be gross at work. As I’ve helped put the two of you together, I can undo it. That’s a promise.”

Renly grinned and tapped her finger against Viktor’s shoulder, feigning seriousness. “Don’t worry about this one,” she said, pointing at Viktor, who was still leaning casually over his cup, giving Jayce a smug look. “You know Viktor’s favourite lecture—the ‘appropriate behaviour in the workplace’ speech. He’ll make sure we follow the rules. It’s practically a safety lecture on repeat.” She mimicked Viktor’s tone in a deadpan voice. “No inappropriate behaviour around hextech equipment, no distractions—save that for after hours.”

Viktor shot her a look, smirking. “I do try to maintain some semblance of order around here, Renly. It's important to keep professionalism, even in… less conventional environments.”

Jayce put his hands up in mock surrender. “Right, right. I’m sure the entire lab is scared stiff whenever you give one of those speeches, Viktor.”

Renly laughed, adding with a wink, “You’d be surprised how effective they are. You don’t want to risk Viktor’s safety lectures, trust me.”

Viktor gave a light shrug. “It’s a necessary evil.”

Jayce shook his head, trying not to smile. “Alright, I’ll let you two have your little moment but remember—keep it at a 9-to-5 level. No surprises after hours. I don’t need any more ‘schemes’ to manage.”

Renly leaned back, sipping her coffee with a smirk. “Don’t worry, Jayce. We’ll try to keep things professional... but no promises.”

***

For about two weeks, things had been kept ‘professional’—mostly. Jayce was still wincing at the subtle signals of affection between Viktor and Renly and felt utterly betrayed that the sugar secret was still being kept from him. They spent most of their time together at Viktor’s flat, as Renly, too preoccupied with, well, everything, still hadn’t cleared the hazardous debris from her own.

Lately, however, with finals approaching at the academy, leaving Renly with little time for her own work, and Viktor and Jayce stumbling upon the Hexcore discovery, most of their shared time had shifted to the lab. And so, things had stopped being quite so ‘professional.’

They worked on their separate workloads in silence, but for the soft, intermittent hum of Renly’s voice as she fiddled at her bench. It wasn’t quite a song—more a series of lilting, disjointed melodies she pieced together as she fiddled with her tools. Viktor, perched on the stool at his own workbench across the room, caught himself smiling.

The quiet hum broke into an off-key flourish, and Viktor chuckled, soft and warm.

Renly turned toward him; eyebrow quirked. “What’s funny?”

“You,” Viktor replied without looking up from his work, though the corner of his mouth twitched upward. “You hum when you’re focused. I’d forgotten.”

Renly planted her hands on her hips, feigning indignation. “Forgotten? I do not!”

“You do,” he insisted, shooting her a teasing glance. “But don’t stop. It’s… endearing.”

She blinked at him, her mock-offense softening into something more thoughtful. After a moment, she shook her head with a small laugh. “This is weird, you know.”

“What is?”

“This,” she gestured vaguely between them, “being this close to you and not… not feeling like I have to keep my hands to myself.” Her voice grew quieter as she spoke, her eyes fixed thoughtfully on the space in front of her. “For so long, I thought if I ever touched you, you’d flinch.”

Viktor looked up at her then, his gaze steady but playful. “If you don’t believe it, you should verify. For science.”

Renly laughed. “Is that your way of saying you’re the test subject?”

He spread his hands in a mock-solemn gesture. “If it will satisfy your hypothesis.”

“But what about the work environment safety, Viktor? Are you leading me astray just to rub it into my face one day?” She eyed him suspiciously.

“As I said, it would be for science, therefore part of our work,” Viktor smirked, though even he couldn’t quite believe his own words. At work? Never. Yet now, it was the only thing on his mind. “When it comes to rubbing things in your face… well, no promises,” he added innocently, causing Renly to clasp her hand to her face, though she couldn’t hold back a chuckle.

“Fine,” she said with exaggerated determination, crossing the room toward him. “But I’m a very thorough researcher.”

Stopping in front of his stool, she leaned down and poked a finger to his forehead, her expression one of mock-serious examination. “Hmm, no reaction. Subject appears… suspiciously non-hostile.”

Viktor chuckled, tipping his head back slightly to look up at her. “So far.”

Her finger moved to prod at his cheek, then his shoulder, her expression growing more dramatic with each exaggerated poke. “Subject’s outer shell is remarkably non-defensive. No sharp edges or biting. Fascinating.”

“Renly…” Viktor’s voice held a warning tone now, though his smile betrayed him.

But she was undeterred. She crouched a little, eyeing his torso, her finger hovering near his ribs. “And here, we test the reflexes—”

“Don’t you dare,” Viktor said sharply, though he was laughing now.

Renly smirked but straightened up, her expression softening as she brushed her hand lightly across his jaw. This time, she didn’t poke—she let her fingers trail gently, tracing the line of his cheekbone. Her voice was quieter when she spoke again. “Subject seems to be… content at the contact.”

Viktor’s laughter faded, replaced with something softer in his gaze. He reached up and caught her wrist gently, tugging her a little closer. “Perhaps the subject is more than content.”

Before she could reply, he pulled her fully toward him, and she let herself be guided, sliding into his lap with ease. Viktor’s hands steadied her at her hips, and her arms found their way around his neck as their lips met in a kiss—tentative at first, then deepening.

Renly straddled his lap, leaning into him, her fingers tangling in his hair. The kiss grew hungrier, the soft hum of her earlier tune replaced by soft breaths and the faint scrape of his chair against the floor as they shifted closer. Viktor’s grip on her waist tightened, he tried to pull her in just a little bit more, the friction between their bodies making him swell up. He didn’t know what came over him in that moment. The words weren’t planned, nor had he ever imagined saying them like this. But before he could stop himself, they slipped out, muffled against her lips in a breathless whisper.

“I love you.” It was quiet but landed like a thunderclap.

Renly froze, her hands stilling against his chest. Her breath caught in her throat, and she pulled back slightly, just enough to look at him.

Viktor’s face was flushed, his breathing uneven. He didn’t flinch under her gaze but watched her carefully, as though bracing for her response. “I—” he started, seeing that no such thing was coming. “I am aware this is quick,” his voice now measured, though still quiet. “But I think I’ve had this in me for a while now. I was just looking for the right words, as ‘love’ doesn’t describe how you make me feel.”

Bravery slowly fled his body, and his gaze dropped down to her collarbones. He felt his chest tightening, slight pain lingering within it.

“It doesn’t?”

“No…” Viktor placed his hands on her shoulders, his thumbs gently rubbing the skin of her neck and collarbone. “I admire you. I respect you. I adore you,” he said softly, pressing a gentle kiss to her jaw. “I think… you’ve nestled in my heart a long time ago. I just—”

“Viktor, I—”

“Wait.” He stopped her, his voice calm but earnest. “You don’t have to say anything. I wanted you to know this, and I wanted to find the courage to be the first one to say it, since you did the heavy lifting.” A soft, almost shy smile tugged at his lips. “You don’t have to say anything. I am… happy.”

Renly exhaled softly, her fingers brushing against his collar as she leaned her forehead against his. She closed her eyes, letting the weight of his words sink in.

“I don’t think I can compete with that, you know,” she murmured, her voice wavering slightly with a nervous laugh. “I may not have the words yet,” she whispered, her voice steady now, “but I think you’ve nestled in my heart too, whether you wanted it or not.”

“Oh, it took me some time, but I definitely wanted to,” his tone now lighter, as he began to kiss her slowly, his hands pushing her toward him. “And now, I would gladly nestle myself somewhere else, by your approval,” Viktor whispered in a sultry tone, biting her lower lip.

Renly laughed into his mouth, completely disarmed. “Viktor, I don’t care if I win this one. I want you so much right now that if you don’t do something soon, I might—”

“Implode?” Viktor offered, his lips twitching into a smirk as he licked her earlobe and left a tiny bite on it. She let out a muffled whimper, managing to throw out, “Yes, and there will be no one to—ah!” Her words dissolved into a gasp as Viktor pressed his groin between her legs. “Put the blame on me when the enforcers come,” Renly managed to finish her sentence with a breathy strain, her body already melting into Viktor’s arms, her resolve as pliable as the warmth radiating between them.

“Hmm, that would be just awful,” he teased mercilessly, his voice rich with amusement. “I don’t think I could allow it—my favourite thing taken away from me so quickly,” Viktor whispered into her ear, his words laced with a low growl. “Let’s get you fucked in no time.”

Renly giggled, though her ears went completely crimson red at the sultry register of Viktor’s voice. He deftly fumbled with her buttons while leaving a slick trace of kisses on her neck, but her own fingers trembled when she was peeling layers of clothing open. Each brush of his fingertips on her skin made a prickle of goosebumps rise and fall, as if his touch was bringing her back to life.

Once she was left with nothing but a bra, she slid off his lap and got rid of her underwear, leaving ,the skirt on. She scrambled back up onto him, his own shirt and vest left hanging loosely around his frame, buttons undone.

Viktor adjusted the backrest of his chair, so he could lean back comfortably and slide Renly’s hips on top of his, as he pulled her breasts out of the bra and gave each a gentle squeeze. He brushed his thumb over a faint fingertip shaped bruise on the side of one of them—a reminder of their last night’s activities. “You wear my marks with such grace,” he whispered, ghosting his lips over it.

Renly shuddered at the warmth of his mouth, her head falling back, her pelvis digging deeper into Viktor’s groin, making him release a low groan. “Do I have to hold you down in place, my love?” He smirked against her breast and bit on it carefully, while digging his fingers into her hips to still her movement. She gasped and shot him a look of playful disapproval.

“Undo my belt,” he commanded, placing his hands on the sides of her neck, keeping their eyes locked. Her hands slid down his torso to unbuckle him, but she had to steal a glance to make her work of his fly buttons. “Ah! And look at me,” he pulled her face back up to his.

She pressed her forehead to his and let out a long exhale, as if bracing herself. Having her focus recollected, she slowly undid his fly, button after button, his cock already pressing itself out. Her hand palmed his length through the soft fabric of his underwear, and Viktor let out a long hum of approval at the warmth of her touch.

Renly slid her hand under the material shyly, observing his reaction. A smile bloomed on his lips and a quiet praise fell from his mouth, “Just like that.” She sprung him free and let his cock rest idly against her slit, as she moved her hips slowly back and forth, grinding on his length, covering him with her slick.

Viktor’s lips collided with hers, as he kissed her with a deep hunger that crawled itself up his body, digging its claws into his lungs, his ribcage, his heart. “Do you want me to—“, he breathed into her mouth, his words failing him, melting into another kiss.

“No, I want you now,” Renly felt her insides squeezing tight, Viktor’s proximity driving her into a lustful haze she didn’t know she had in her. Time was of the essence, and although she deeply believed in Jayce’s decency—that he would back out quietly if he caught them—she didn’t want to risk even the slightest possibility that they might have to stop.

“Tell me if anything feels wrong.” Viktor’s own voice was straining, as he teased her entrance with his head. He slid in carefully, his cock twitching at how warm and wet she was. Once he was fully buried inside her, he let out a breath he hadn’t realised he was holding.

“It feels… the opposite of wrong,” Renly whispered against his lips, her mouth dry and her brain slowly giving up on formulating proper thoughts. Viktor slid his hands down her sides, one travelled where their bodies met, as his fingers parted her, the other tilted her hips forth, so she could grind her clit on his pubic bone while riding him.

“You drive,” he smiled playfully, seeing the spark in her eyes as soon as she felt his skin rubbing against her. She gave her hips an experimental roll and Viktor groaned loudly, making her chuckle. His hand shot to cradle the back of her neck, as she steadied herself on his shoulders and searched for her rhythm.

Soon the sensation of being full of his cock, her core grinding on his, built itself up and Renly felt the pressure bubbling in her lower belly as she quickened the pace, her movement falling out of grace.

“Viktor, I’m so close,” she breathed against his lips, and he took the cue, moving to suck on her neck, his hands kneading her breasts. It was all it took for her to fall over the edge, as she came undone pressing his face to the crook of her neck, her hands gripping his shoulders tightly, her walls clenching desperately around him.

As her rhythm stuttered, Viktor kept rolling his hips underneath her, a playful smirk ghosting on his lips when he whispered, “I didn’t tell you to stop.” He grabbed her chin in one of his hands and placed a loud kiss on her lips. “Are you alright?” His gentle whisper enveloped her as she nodded, her expression serious.

Even though he was close, Viktor’s pace was steady, almost lazy, as he thrusted into her with a quiet force. He was savouring the buildup, cherishing the feeling of her walls closing on him, enveloping him with warmth. “Fuck, I love you,” he rasped into her mouth, spilling himself inside her, before he kissed her.

Outside of gentle twitches and shuddering breaths, neither of them moved for a while. Renly rested her head in the crook of his neck, while Viktor leaned back, cradling her close to his chest, his fingers tracing the lines of the tattoo on her back.

“How are you?” Viktor asked softly, cupping her cheek and pressing a kiss to her forehead.

“I’m so in love with you, I don’t know what to do with it,” Renly whispered, squeezing her eyes shut as a rush of tears swelled beneath her eyelids.

“I think I might know the feeling.” Viktor wrapped his arms tightly around her and nuzzled his face into her hair. “Take as long as you need,” he murmured, exhaling slowly as if trying to ground her in the moment.

Renly tilted her head slightly, resting her chin on his shoulder as she whispered, “And you? How are you feeling?” Her fingers lightly grazed the back of his neck, a comforting, grounding gesture.

Viktor closed his eyes for a moment, letting out a soft hum of contentment. “Tired,” he admitted, his voice low but tinged with a warmth that made the word feel almost reverent. “But blissfully so.”

Renly smiled against his skin, her arms tightening around him. “Good,” she murmured, shifting slightly to press her cheek to his. “I want you to feel safe with me, Viktor. Like I feel with you. That’s all I want.”

His breath hitched at her words, a flicker of vulnerability passing through his expression before he softened again. “You make me feel more than safe,” he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. “You make me feel… whole. As though the pieces I thought lost were never truly gone.” He felt her arms tighten around him in response.

When they finally untangled from each other, Renly’s knees almost gave out. They helped each other get dressed, though not doing a very good job of it, snorting and giggling as they went. Viktor insisted on getting at least a little bit of work done, but her resolve was completely gone, and she decided to head home at a humane hour for once.

Renly stood by the door, her coat slung over her arm as she cast Viktor a lingering look, her cheeks still red from what had just transpired. We sure did keep it professional.

“You sure you don’t want to head out too?” she asked softly, a small smile tugging at her lips.

Viktor shook his head, still seated at his workstation. “I’ll finish a few things here. Just… make it home safely, hmm?”

Renly stepped closer, her hand brushing his shoulder. “You work too hard,” she murmured, leaning down to press a kiss to his temple. “Goodnight, Viktor.”

“Goodnight, Renly.” His voice was warm, but his eyes remained fixed on the table in front of him as she finally slipped out of the lab, leaving him alone with his thoughts.

The silence felt heavier now. Viktor leaned back in his chair, his gaze drifting toward the Hexcore, where it pulsed faintly in its casing, its glow casting shadows across the room. His fingers tapped idly against the desk, the work in front of him forgotten as his mind wandered.

He exhaled slowly, his chest tightening in a way that had nothing to do with the tension of the day. A sudden light-headedness crept over him, and he braced himself against the edge of the table, his other hand clutching at his chest.

The cough came suddenly, a sharp bark that echoed in the quiet of the lab. It wasn’t as violent as the fits he’d suffered before, but it was enough to make him pause, a deep unease settling in his stomach. He fumbled for the handkerchief in his pocket, bringing it to his lips as another cough wracked his body. A few drops spattered onto the table.

When the fit subsided, Viktor sank back into his chair, his breathing uneven. His fingers tightened around the handkerchief as he glanced at the Hexcore again, its faint hum seeming louder now in the stillness.

“Why now?” he muttered under his breath, his voice hoarse. The words hung in the air, unanswered.

The Hexcore pulsed faintly in the dim light, almost as if it were mocking him. Viktor frowned, his mind tugged between the promise of his work and the unsettling fragility of his own body. He shook his head, trying to clear the wooziness that clung to him. With one last glance at the Hexcore, he forced himself to focus back on the scattered notes on his desk, determined to shake off the unease creeping at the edges of his thoughts. He would tell her. Just… later.

[numptypylon]

“Rayla is… not my lovebug.”

“Oh ho, now?" Nyx leaned obnoxiously close, her eyebrows raising. "Have you told her that?”

“She told me," Callum said, angry all over again suddenly that... she actually hadn't told him that and yet they weren't- "So I’m tentatively assuming that she knows.”

“Oh ho? So she broke up with you and yet you’re still adventuring together, risking your lives for each other, making love eyes at each other at every opportunity… ah, to be young and in love and a garbage fire of collective awkwardness of such radiance as to light up the heavens-”

“Yeah!” Ezran agreed, walking up to them. Oh no. Hopefully Nyx would tone down the… everything… around an 11-year-old, but… considering he had been 14 himself when he’d first encountered Nyx, he didn’t have high hopes. “It’s gross and they’re so dumb, and here I am, a doomed onlooker!"

“You got the family braincell, I see,” Nyx said, winking at Ezran.

Ezran nodded sagely. “My blessing and my curse, ‘tis true.”

Really?! Did Ez really have to form an alliance with every new person they met to tag-team roast him?!

Nyx turned away from Ezran, her unwanted attention firmly back on him now. “I still need the full status update on my favorite dysfunctional lovebugs!” Nyx would keep prodding, and Callum didn’t want her to prod Rayla- “You know there’s another ex-lovebug who could tell me-“ Did he just curse that idea into Nyx’s head?! “But you’re currently the less puke-smelling option, so…"

Nyx really didn't subscribe to the idea of sensitive subjects you should keep your trap shut about.

“We… broke up. Like you said.” One way to say it. But he wasn’t giving Nyx any ammunition to use against Rayla. “Then made up. Kind of. We’re friends, just not… lovebugs.”

“Friends with benefits?”

“What friends do you have?” Ezran asked, all wide-eyed, vicious innocence. “Do you not consider friendship a benefit?”

“Hey!” Nyx looked insulted. “I thought we were allies against yon magus of maladroit you tragically must call brother?”

“My allegiances are many and inscrutable!” Ez stuck his tongue out at Nyx.

“’Allegiances’? ’Inscrutable’? Sheesh, kid, how old are you? And what awful, terrible company do you keep?!”

“11. And… politicians.”

“Oh no, you’re serious?! Oh kid, the depths of my condolences is one of them yawning chasms of endless screaming-“

“Oi?!” Villads yelled. “Matey? Riggin’ snagged!”

“I don’t hold court with betrayers, anyway,” Nyx said, incredibly hypocritically for someone who’d stranded them in a desert, and she pushed off the deck and was airborne, heading off towards the center mast.

“What is the benefit of being ‘friends with benefits’?” Ezran asked, looking around to Callum and then Soren, who had just arrived with Hat perched on his head. “The friendship is pretty obviously a benefit of being friends without having to say it, so I know it isn’t that, I just said that because Nyx was being mean.”

“Oh, I know!” Soren said, eagerly. “It’s s-“

“Sandwiches!” Callum cut him off. “Sandwiches, Soren! Remember?”

“Riiiiight!” Soren winked, exaggeratedly. “Sandwiches. Got it. Corvus makes the best bread sandwich, extra mayonnaise-“

“Please, Soren,” Callum choked. “Please, let’s… talk about something else. Anything else. Please.”

———

Excerpt from an upcoming chapter of my S4-6 between-canon-episodes fic, Downtime’s Up (successor to my S1-3 between-canon-scenes fics Downtime in Wartime and Upside Downtime)

It’s wednesday and I have many wips I want to work on and no time, but I DO also have a lot of stuff written and not posted, so… hope you enjoyed some overgrown pigeon time and depraved sandwich innuendos. Once I get past the next 4 chapters of Downtime’s Up, I have most of the rest of the story written, just… it’s been rough going to write anything lately

[openphrase123]

okay........so sorry for all these questions lol feel free to pick and choose.

73, 65, 45, 32, 26, 20, 11, and 10!!

AH? well don't worry i like answering things :) thank you for the ask >:3

however this shit's going under a readmore (there isssss a preview of tomorrow's four eyes update in here though :3) (and also fic recs)

73. What do you think makes your writing stand out from other works?

I think I format things a little differently on ao3 than what i've seen in other fics? me and my doublespaces. sorry if this makes them harder to read it actually makes it easier for me to read with my visual processing

for actual CONTENT... idk i think i have the tendency to take things that are extremely high concepts that veer into crackfic territory and ground them in reality as best i can. but i think it feels more real because i deal a lot in slow boils and longfics, so i take lots of time on atmosphere before immediately coming out with things like "siffrin is a literal star banished from the sky by the universe"

also i think i'm really strong at romance writing especially but that's neither here nor there

65. Tell us about what you’re most looking forward to writing – in your current project, or a future project

i actually just noticed you left a comment on my seizure-induced post about my future 20 years later fic and it reminded me that i'm so on my high horse about how i named the isafrin fankids i made up for it. you know how siffrin's name is sisyphus but id5 mangled it into siffrin? i did that with all of the isafrin fankid names. took greek mythology heroes and mangled the names. theseus -> thessan and aeneas -> aeney

anyway they're fun to write and i keep writing about them as a treat when i need it :3 they're both forgotten island castaways that washed up on shore as toddlers so they couldn't just learn vaugardian and move on, and everyone in bambouche was like "hey siffrin can you take care of these kids since you're from the same country" and he panicked for a full month before saying yes

45. Do you want to break your readers‘ heart or make them laugh?

por que no los dos? can't i do both? sometimes i do it at the same time, even. i do want to END with them laughing though i don't give hits without a comfort at the end

32. Name three of your favorite fanfic writers.

club of never missing in my heart is entryn17, faedemon (hi @moipale :3), and grech (HI @isuggestwishcraft) although i need to like. catch up. there are fics on grech's profile i haven't read yet. this is a mistake

26. Which of your fics would you call your wildest ride?

um. :)

it's a tie between inutile and four eyes (curtain call is SO MILD) but they're wild rides in different ways. inutile is like a proper steel roller coaster where you can see what the next drop is going to be if you look ahead. four eyes is a 50 year old wooden legacy coaster that you wonder if it's stable enough to ride on safely the whole time you're on it. (in case you were wondering, the 20 years later fic is like a teacup ride that you get sick on in between breaks and curtain call is a log ride that has lots of drops but you can still take your nephew on it without scaring the shit out of him)

20. Have you noticed any patterns in your fics? Words/expressions that appear a lot, themes, common settings, etc?

when i write in the second person i am so guilty of "you feel yourself/you see yourself/she seemed/she looks" like i need to stop that... however i don't make multiple drafts of fanfiction, i do it a lot less in Fully Original Edited Works

my friends that know me outside of isat would say my biggest writing theme is clones and duplicates and doppelgangers so. [sweats]

isat is lacking in some of my other writing themes which how blood family interacts with found family but [looks at four eyes and starts sweating again] aw beans i didn't realize i was doing that there until now

11. Link your three favorite fics right now

backstitching has been taking over my entire life. i need to start leaving comments on it but i'm shy

@riggedbones has also made me insane about their odile looping au, pspsps you want to read find chance in consequence sooooo bad

i do not know where the wild hunt is going but i am grisping it really hard. i'm eyes-emoji-ing it.

10. Cltr+f "blinks" on your WIP & copy paste the first sentence/paragraph that comes up

hahaha. lol. from the four eyes chapter i'm formatting right now, that's coming out tomorrow:

[pastlight]

S3E1 nbc hannibal livetweet from 2015

gonna watch hannibal hell yeah hell fucking yeah

8:49 PM · Jun 9, 2015

why is this music so intense already they're only scenery shots holy shit

8:55 PM · Jun 9, 2015

who allowed biker!Hannibal I will sue

8:56 PM · Jun 9, 2015

not being able to watch in hd is awful

8:57 PM · Jun 9, 2015

man... the style of everything has been so weird????

8:59 PM · Jun 9, 2015

aaaand this guy is so fucked lmao

9:05 PM · Jun 9, 2015

"I've killed hardly anyone during our residence." THERE HE IS

9:08 PM · Jun 9, 2015

I though Hannibal couldn't get any more pretentious yet here we are

9:11 PM · Jun 9, 2015

I'm .. so confused.....

9:12 PM · Jun 9, 2015

I should've rewatched the last season to remember things more clearly gdi

9:12 PM · Jun 9, 2015

thanks @ the Hannibal staff for never letting us down with the fanservice

9:15 PM · Jun 9, 2015

at least my years of Italian are coming in handy lel

9:18 PM · Jun 9, 2015

Hannibal is finally surrounded by his people. rich assholes with terrible suits.

9:24 PM · Jun 9, 2015

poor hd snails :((

9:24 PM · Jun 9, 2015

why do I think this scarf guy is so hot

9:26 PM · Jun 9, 2015

he sort of reminds me a bit of one of my ocs

9:28 PM · Jun 9, 2015

[no idea which oc i meant]

OH MY GOOOD THIS DINNER IS WORSE THAN THE OBE WIH HANNIBALY WILL AND ALANA

9:29 PM · Jun 9, 2015

holy fuck so that's what happened to her

9:35 PM · Jun 9, 2015

oh maaaaaaaannnnnnn oh man oh man this explains

9:36 PM · Jun 9, 2015

nooooo don't kill the cute flirty guy :((

9:47 PM · Jun 9, 2015

"If only that company was Will Graham." OHHHH OH OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

9:53 PM · Jun 9, 2015

I'm definitely gonna watch this again when I've downloaded it in hd and with subs

9:53 PM · Jun 9, 2015

guess who's back

back again

Hanni's back

eat your friends

10:02 PM · Jun 9, 2015

?????? WAIT WHEN

10:04 PM · Jun 9, 2015

there's NO WAY I missed him

10:04 PM · Jun 9, 2015

[here i had an exchange with a friend who pointed out it was Bedelia's patient]

*turns on main computer literally just to download he Hannibal ep in HD*

10:11 PM · Jun 9, 2015

IM GONNA REWATCH IT NOW

12:07 AM · Jun 10, 2015

Dimmond became my fav character in the like, 10 minutes of screen time he got. and then was killed :(

12:45 AM · Jun 10, 2015

*reads him as hella queer cause I fucking can*

12:45 AM · Jun 10, 2015

he was drinking from two glasses of champagne I'm laughing so hard

12:48 AM · Jun 10, 2015

he seems super pretentious yes but who DOESN'T in this episode

12:51 AM · Jun 10, 2015

biker!Hannibal is still too much for me and should be considered illegal

12:54 AM · Jun 10, 2015

Hannibal is not nearly dry enough in this after-shower scene to be getting dressed

1:21 AM · Jun 10, 2015

or do people really do that? cause I make sure to get perfectly dry before putting on clothes..

1:22 AM · Jun 10, 2015

stares at the void when Hannibal didn't want to answer what Will was to him

1:23 AM · Jun 10, 2015

this must be the 5th time I've watched the dinner scene and i STILL CRY

1:33 AM · Jun 10, 2015

ANTHONY'S FACE IMF CLKING

1:33 AM · Jun 10, 2015

you can see and hear Hannibal laughing internally at it, he makes a double take, it's just aMAZING

1:41 AM · Jun 10, 2015

he was a short but sweet blessing. look at his face thinking he just got invited to a threesome.

1:46 AM · Jun 10, 2015

did Bedelia even pay for the shit she bought??

1:55 AM · Jun 10, 2015

also what was up with this random hot policeman

1:58 AM · Jun 10, 2015

oh and those security cameras???

2:01 AM · Jun 10, 2015

ohhh mvm i just read some meta on it. v nice.

4:23 AM · Jun 10, 2015

now that I'm seeing it again... how did her arm go so far into his throat... what was he even planing...

2:02 AM · Jun 10, 2015

man this was so cool

2:08 AM · Jun 10, 2015

my only complaint with Anthony is that he says "la polizia" wrong

2:20 AM · Jun 10, 2015

Abel push Hannibal buttons cause the know he has nothing to lose is so great I love it

2:29 AM · Jun 10, 2015

things I care about from Hannibal: Anthony, Will bring safe, Anthony, Price and Zeller, Anthony, Frederick!!!, Anthony sHUT UP HE ISN'T DEAD

3:59 AM · Jun 10, 2015

characters i refuse to believe are dead despite having seen their butchered corpses: Beverly Katz, Anthony Dimmond.

4:19 AM · Jun 10, 2015

if I was planing on sleeping tonight I'd wish to dream of my sweet thirsty scarf child. alas, I must stay awake and paint.

4:20 AM · Jun 10, 2015

[the timestamp really makes this]

I WASN'T EXPECTING MY OBSESSION FOR HANNIBAL TO COME BACK FULL BLOWN LIKE THIS BUT???? NOICE.

4:39 AM · Jun 10, 2015

[mik0is0bored]

Yuta Okkotsu x Reader

<<Previous--Next>>

Previous: Suguru Geto x Reader

Next: Yu Haibara x Reader

Description: No shibuya! Yuta x neutral!reader

[____] had gotten close with the special grade sorcerer, Yuta Okkotsu. Friends with benefits, if you will. They shared similar feelings. [____] knew of His mission to Africa, for at least 10 months, but what [____] didn't know, was that he was on a plane back to Tokyo.

[____] missed Yuta, they truly did. Their feelings were a little too obvious, as Maki, Inumaki, and Panda knew about their little "friends with benefits" thing before he left for Africa almost a year ago.

The others knew of Yuta's return, but didn't tell [____], hoping it'd surprise them.

It was early in the morning when Yuta got back to Tokyo. It was a Saturday, so there wouldn't be classes for the others today. He went into his contacts on his phone and asked Ijichi to pick him up.

Once back at the dorm building, Yuta checked his phone for the time. 7:47 am. He knew that [____] would still be asleep, so he walked into his own dorm room and tossed himself onto his bed.

It was around 11:48 am when [____] woke up, the sunlight shining softly through their window. [____] was still disoriented from sleep and laid in their bed for a few more moments, scrolling through Instagram.

After a few more moments of waking up, [____] sat up in bed and stretched their arms out and yawned, as rhey stood up and headed into their bathroom.

Since Yuta got back from the airport, he hadn't slept at all, too excited to see[____]. At the moment, he was hanging out with the others; Inumaki, Panda, and Maki.

In the back of his mind, Yuta couldn't help but wonder when [____] would be waking up, or if they were awake, where were they?

[____] washed their face, brushed their teeth, brushed their hair, etc before slipping into their Jujutsu Tech uniform; something all the students wore, and it was accustomed to each person, so it was all similar, yet unique at the same time.

Usually in the mornings they would go to the training grounds, not to train, but there was a tree that had a branch that could be used as a makeshift bench. They'd climb the tree and sit on the branch. There was a pond a few meters away from the training dummies, so they would watch the wildlife around the training grounds, it brought them peace in the mornings.

Eventually, [____] made their way down the path that went from the dorms to the training grounds, unaware of Yuta having returning from Africa.

The morning continued on, [____] took their time, and Yuta continued to make up for lost time with the others, before he heard footsteps and turned around.

[____]'s eyes widened, they couldn't believe it. Was it really...?

"Yuta?"

He smiled, his signature soft smile showing and spoke:

"Hey, [____]. It's been awhile, huh?"

[____]'s lips formed a smile as they ran into his arms and wrapped their arms around him. Yuta chuckled softly, as he wrapped his arms around them.

"Missed me much?" He teased softly, resting his chin on their shoulder.

[____] huffed softly, not out of anger, but amusement. "...hey, don't act like you didn't miss me too" they said, as they buried their face in his neck.

Meanwhile, Maki, Panda, and Inumaki watched the exchange, they knew that the two missed each other. Maki's usual fierce demeanor softened slightly and held a small smile, finding the situation endearing. Panda smirked softly watching the two, and you could tell Inumaki was grinning, although half of his face was covered.

[____] kept their face buried in his neck for a few moments before pulling back to look into his eyes.

"I can't believe you're really back, like, you're here." [____] said, in awe and disbelief.

Yuta smiled and spoke, tapping their nose with his finger, "disappointed?"

[____] snickered softly and shook their head

"Not in the slightest."

[cloudcountry]

AUBURN'S VOICELINES . . . PART ONE

part two will have all the affinity ones!!

Opening Cutscene

“I’m not going to let anyone die. I can’t. I have to save them all, none of this is fair. If I’m not going to be remembered, the least I can do for them is this.”

Summon

“Hi! It’s nice to meet you, my name is Auburn!”

Home Screen

Hello:

“Ah...you remember me? Oh, don’t mind me! Hello, how have you been? What’s new?”

You’ve Got Mail:

“Um, I think you have mail. Do you want to check it? I can’t peek at any of it, don’t worry! That’d be breaking the law of correspondence...”

Default:

“Professor Hyde said I would have been assigned to Hotarubi had I not become inspector...it seems like a lovely place.”

“Working at Jabberwock is really hard, but I think it’s rewarding! Psst...don’t tell Ritsu I’m doing it without pay, he’d lecture me again.”

“I’ve been reading the Compendium of Laws for Ritsu, and I don’t know how he does it! I’m taking it one section at a time...”

“If you need help with anything, you can come to me! Just...make sure it’s nothing unsavory, or Rubia will have your head.”

“I’ve gotten in the habit of carrying around an extra notebook and pens with me everywhere...I never know when Ritsu is going to call me with new details.”

Spring: (March-May)

(between 5 am and 11 am)

“Ritsu says there’s more business at this time of year, and oddly enough I’m not nervous. I know he can handle it.”

(between 11 am and 4 pm)

“There are so many flowers blooming...I’m glad I have a spring birthday.”

(between 4 pm and 8 pm)

“Have you gone to see the tours in Jabberwock yet? No...? You should! I really like the water section, so I pick up the slack there!”

(between 8 pm and 5 am)

“The cafeteria had a really good salad with apple slices and poppyseed dressing...I’m going to be thinking about it for weeks...”

Summer: (June-August)

(between 5 am and 11 am)

“You know, I think working outside for the majority of the summer upped my heat tolerance. Be careful out there!”

(between 11 am and 4 pm)

“Oh...It’s so hot....water, I need water...”

(between 4 pm and 8 pm)

“I’m so glad the day is over, I feel like I could collapse. The sun felt nice, though! ...What do you mean I wasn’t looking too hot? It was nothing BUT hot!”

(between 8 pm and 5 am)

“I wonder if I can drag Rubia and Ritsu away from their obligations to watch the fireworks tonight...”

Autumn: (September-November)

(between 5 am and 11 am)

“I like this weather a lot, it’s my favorite season. Finally, I get to wear my sweaters again.”

(between 11 am and 4 pm)

“Oh, this drink? It’s chai! You should totally order one sometime if you stop by the Mystery Diner, Ren makes really good drinks when he puts his mind to it.”

(between 4 pm and 8 pm)

“The nights are so long now, it gets dark so early...it doesn’t throw me off, but I still find it weird sometimes.”

(between 8 pm and 5 am)

“I wish I could go stargazing right now. I’m sure the sky is beautiful, but...hm, I don’t trust the campus to be safe enough at this hour.”

Winter: (December-February)

(between 5 am and 11 am)

“You know, most of my casual winter outfits are a mix of red and black...I don’t mean to declare allegiance to anyone, but whatever happens happens, right?”

(between 11 am and 4 pm)

“I used to love snow as a kid, but now it’s an inconvenience...I can’t do my laundry or carry around papers when it’s so wet outside.”

(between 4 pm and 8 pm)

“Stay warm, okay? Make sure you’re wearing long socks and gloves! Also a coat. Don’t forget a good coat.”

(between 8 pm and 5 am)

“Mmm...this weather can make you feel really awful, but it’s important to keep pushing no matter what. That’s what my loved ones have taught me.”

Her birthday:

“Oh, right. It’s my birthday. Thank you for the congratulations! I wasn’t really planning on celebrating it...”

Rubia’s birthday:

“Did you hear? It’s Rubia’s birthday! ...What do you mean, why am I so excited? You would be too if you knew her like I do!”

Vio's birthday:

“If you can do me one favor today, don't contact Sho. Why? He's going to be spending the whole day with Vio, obviously! It's her birthday?”

Vivi’s birthday:

“You'd better say something nice to my big sis today, it's their birthday! ...Why are you looking at me like that? They're not scary!”

Ritsu’s birthday:

“I have a whole thing planned for Ritsu’s birthday today...I know, I’m so bad at subtlety! Do you think he’ll notice how bouncy and twitchy I am?”

Friend birthday:

“Yes, I hope (Name) has a wonderful birthday today.”

Neutral/Dislike birthday:

“Oh, it’s their birthday? ...Cool.”

New Years: (January 1st)

“Happy New Year! My resolution this year is to read more of the Compendium of Laws...and hopefully memorize a few more sections.”

Valentine’s Day: (February 14th)

“Oh, chocolates? Thank you so much, you’re the sweetest! Here, I got you something in return!”

White Day: (March 13th)

“Ritsu got me some confectioneries from this really fancy shop as a thank you for the chocolates I gave him on Valentine’s. I almost don’t want to eat them. Maybe I should share them with him?”

April Fool’s Day: (April 1st)

“Oh, I don’t celebrate April Fools. No, it is not because of Ritsu or Article 233 of the Penal Code. I just don’t see the appeal.”

Halloween: (October 31st)

“My work with Ritsu does not stop on Halloween! In fact, I’d say it only gets worse. People on campus can be degenerates on this date.”

Christmas: (December 25th)

“Ah...it is Christmas, isn’t it? I hope you have a merry one.”

Idle:

(below 13 affinity)

“Um...can I help you with anything?”

(13 affinity and above)

“Hey, it’s nice to see you! I hope you’re doing well today! Is there anything you’d like to talk about?”

Absent:

“You know...I hope you’ll have better attendance in the future. It’s not good for your academic standing to be gone for so many consecutive days.”

[rorywritesjunk]

There's no race, no ending in sight

r rating. title comes from "two of us on the run" by lucius

(enjoy. since i'm so invested in this now i wanted to do a ✨flashback✨ part and i love emporio ivankov and been hyping myself up on trans croc lately too so... this happened. mentions surgery but nothing graphic, threats to others safety. also mentions of someone's first time)

taglist: @hey-august @thoraeth

pt 1 + pt 2 + p3 + p4 + pt 5 + p6 + pt 7 +Pt 8 + Pt 9 + Pt 10 + Pt 11 + Pt 12 + Pt 13 + Pt 14 + Pt 15 + pt 16 + Pt 17 (End)

Pt 9

twenty years ago

"I'm sorry, what?" The nineteen year old looked confused by the demand. Sunny had only been at the job for five years, she still had so much to learn, but this customer came in, one she had seen frequently in the last year, making adjustments to their clothes when it didn't feel right in the arms, the chest, hips, and length.

"I said marry me, shop girl." The cigar smoke was awful, lingering in the air as it dissipated. He was grinning at her.

"M-Mister Crocodile, I can't. I'm only half way through my apprenticeship and... and we don't know each other very well." Sunny tried to reason with him. Why would he want to marry her? "Besides, um, I'm not... ready for marriage."

He chuckled, reaching across the counter to touch her cheek gently; she shuddered, his touch was dry and coarse, like sandpaper against her skin. "It's not in your best interest to say no to me, girl, not when I can show you everything in the world, all the riches you could ever want, the prettiest clothes you could ever wear."

"I don't-"

"Saying no to me means you care little for your friends and family, you know. It won't be hard to destroy their livelihoods in an instant." He continued, tilting her head to look up at him. He was so much taller than her, larger even, that she was scared. Was he threatening Miss Pins and her parents? Why? Why did he want her out of countless others?

"But-"

"Just say yes."

Sunny's eyes widened. She didn't know or understand what this man could be capable of but she feared him. She couldn't risk her family being hurt or her boss. She didn't want to die either, not yet.

"Promise?" She asked as he studied her face, raising an eyebrow at her question. "Promise... you won't hurt me o-or my family. And... and I'll marry you."

His face split into a grin. "Good girl. I'll make sure you're happy."

~

Sunny didn't understand where they were. A man taller than her husband greeted them as they arrived on a new island, calling him "Croc-boy" which Sunny found kind of funny. They'd been married three months now and while he would call her darling, she hadn't thought of a pet name for him yet. Nothing seemed to work for him.

"Who's this sweet young thing?" The man asked Crocodile, giving Sunny a look over. She stood beside her husband, trying not to stare up at either of them. She felt so small beside them even without the height difference.

"My wife." Crocodile said as the three started walking along. "I decided to get married before coming to you."

"Hello! I'm Sunny." She said, not wanting to be rude. "I, um, like your outfit."

The outfit being a one piece leotard with very little front, showing off his chest and stomach. Despite working with clothing, Sunny wasn't quite used to seeing someone that exposed but she shook it off. Her parents and boss always taught her not to judge someone's clothes or how they presented themselves.

"She's cute." He chuckled. "My dear, I am Emporio Ivankov, but you can call me Iva if you please." He didn't hesitate in pulling Sunny away from her husband, having her walk beside her with Crocodile behind. "So, he's finally settling down. I hope he's treating you well."

"He... is." She said, glancing back at him. "Um, he's kind to me. I appreciate it." She looked back up at Iva. "Why are we here?"

"Oh, he didn't tell you?" Iva hummed softly. "Figures he wouldn't, but won't worry about it. You'll only be here a few weeks and then you can continue on your way."

~

A few weeks of Sunny staying by Crocodile, making sure he ate while checking his bandages with Iva. The marks on the side of his body looked fine, they healed quickly, but the ones on his chest would take longer, according to Iva. He couldn't use his abilities to take care of that.

Sunny didn't ask questions at first. Her husband wouldn't answer them anyway, but when she was making lunch for him, she finally had to ask Iva.

"I don't understand what you did or what happened."

"Oh, honey, your husband just wanted to be himself, that's all." Iva told her as Sunny put the bowl of soup on a tray. He looked her over again, a grin on his large face. "You really don't know your husband, do you?"

"No, not really." Sunny sighed. "I don't know if I even want to."

~

Sunny only saw her husband naked once before his visit with Iva. It was the only time he seemed uncomfortable around her, his unwanted body exposed to her. She was kind, not saying anything as she kissed him, unsure of what to do, but she told him she thought he looked so handsome, that his body was beautiful, being mindful where she touched him. She meant it. Sunny never wanted someone to feel uncomfortable around her.

After the surgery, however, he didn't have any problems with nudity around her. He seemed happier, more relaxed when he undressed around her, smirking at the way she stared at him as her cheeks reddened.

He was gentle with her the first time, knowing he was much larger than her, not wanting to hurt her or make it a horrible experience. It was a uncomfortable for Sunny but only because she didn't now what she needed to do for him. He insisted she just needed to let him do everything and that she just needed to enjoy herself.

~

She was allowed to visit her parents a few times. It was awkward introducing her husband to them. He really didn't care to meet them but he put up a front of loving husband, gifting them jewels, spices, and other things from around the world.

Her parents weren't stupid but Sunny insisted she was fine and that she was happy with him. He took good care of her and loved her, never raised his voice at her or threatened to hurt her. Everything was fine.

~

She didn't like Alabasta. It was too hot, dry, and she hated spending most of her time at home. Sometimes her husband would bring her to his casino, and sometimes she'd put on different clothes and sneak out to walk around the town but it wasn't often.

When that boy in the straw hat showed up and defeated her husband, allowing him to be arrested by the Marines, she finally felt free, even after interrogation after interrogation, she insisted she knew nothing, that she thought her husband just ran a casino and everything, she had no understanding of what he had been up to or what Baroque Works even was.

Which was a lie, Sunny knew more than others thought. She had listened in on some of his conversations when she'd bring him lunch and he'd hold her in his lap, giving her a kiss on the cheek while having a meeting over a transponder snail or in front of others. They didn't make any comments about his wife. They knew better.

~

Her freedom didn't last long. He managed to track her down in a little village far from Impel Down. She wasn't sure how he did, but seeing him again after time apart was heartbreaking. She didn't want to return to him but he maintained his original threat when they got married: he would never hurt her but the same couldn't be said for her family.

~

"I'm sorry, a clown owns you money?" Sunny thought that was the funniest sounding sentence to her and she snorted. "Why did you loan him money in the first place?"

"There was promise of repayment." Her husband replied, stubbing out his cigar on his plate. She had made him breakfast, one of the few things she enjoyed doing for him. She took a sip of her coffee and frowned.

"Huh." She grinned. "Good luck getting it back. Maybe he spent it all on peanuts for an elephant or something."

"I don't see how this is amusing, darling."

"It's not, really, but the idea of a clown owing you money is funny to me." She shrugged. "Have you talked to him about getting it back?"

"Not yet." He sighed. Sunny nodded and set her coffee cup down, sitting up in her seat.

"Can I go talk to him?"

Crocodile looked at her, raising an eyebrow. "Why would you want to?"

"Something to do." She shrugged again. "I'll talk to him and see if we can come up with an agreement about paying you back in a timely fashion, how does that sound?"

"We'll talk about after lunch." He said as he got up. "I have things to tend to."

[yuus-sentient-teddy]

"Yuu-Yuu hurt." Part 10

Part 1 | Part 9 | Part 11

"HUMAN!" Those around Sebek jumped. "YOU BETTER WAKE UP THIS INSTANT! You are worrying Lord Malleus, your upperclassmen, your helpless teddy bear, and your friends and peers!"

"What the hell? Is he seriously scolding them?"

"Wait, look."

Despite fuming at the sleeping body, tears were gathering at the corner of Sebek's eyes. "You may have given awful first impressions and you may still do things that are ridiculous, but your efforts and qualities are recognized and highly welcomed. We would not have put efforts to save you if otherwise nor if we didn't think you had a place in Night Raven College, so you better wake up!"

Silver sighs in exasperation, but then smiles fondly. It was nice seeing Sebek care for his friends, even if it was indirect. Lilia shared the same sentiment, chuckling and quietly remarking, "Ah, friendship."

"How beautiful! You wear a mask of indifference yet the compassion you hold for a close friend burns brightly through it!" Rook praises. "It makes me want to share a few kind words too!"

"Here we go," Trey says with a smile and shake of his head.

"Trickster, you have been brought to this world ignorant of its workings and wonders, only having your wits to rely on. You have struggled to make sense of things unfamiliar and were thrown into dangerous situations you could only conjure in nightmares and daydreams. Yet, despite it all, you persisted. You have led us in our most trying moments, guided your other half in academics and every day life, and made a home out of ramshackle. Truly, it is inspiring to see you grow as the Prefect of Ramshackle Dorm, the student from another world, and a dear friend to us all."

Rook shakes his head sadly. "However, I am dearly sorry that you and your other half had to suffer from jabs from unsympathetic cohorts."

"Frankly, it's unfortunate but unsurprising that Yuu and Grim would be treated rudely. I will say, though, that they've earned their title, and Sebek is right in that they have qualities that allow them to fit into Night Raven College." Vil gives a small smile and kind gaze towards the Prefect. "Even if first impressions were awful."

Ace and Deuce agree too: Yuu has a place in Night Raven, and things wouldn't be the same without them. "We sometimes cause trouble for them, even though we don't mean to," Deuce says, "but I'm thankful that they're still willing to hang out with us."

"Yeah, it's a miracle how much patience they have for you and Grim," Ace says slyly.

"Hey, don't pretend you don't cause trouble for them!"

"Before you two start bickering, could you also say how much you appreciate Yuu as your best friend?" Grim butts in.

The card soldiers' faces pinken. "H-hang on, that's an embarrassing thing to say!" Ace quickly says. "Can't we just leave it as someone we like hanging out with?"

"And we can't forget that they've proven they got what it takes to be in this school, even if they don't have magic. That's enough to say, right?" Deuce looks at the faces around him, only seeing amused smiles.

"But neither of you are denying what Grim said," Jack points out, smirking.

"Oh yeah?" Ace steps up to him. "Well, in case you've forgotten, you're also Yuu's best friend."

Now it was Jack's turn to get flustered. He started rubbing the back of his neck, muttering, "They just like to invite me to things because we're in the same year."

"Seriously? Why do you think you're part of the First Year Squad for then?!"

"It has 'First Year' in the name. Why else do you think I thought that?"

"You're dipping too much into the lone wolf schtick," says Grim, rolling his eyes a little. "Do you remember what the Prefect told us the last time we had game night? I don't think they would have told just anyone."

". . . Can't say I disagree."

"Yeah! And, you know, you almost always say yes to hanging out with them and us. I wouldn't be surprised if you have some nice things to say about Yuu." Grim was smirking, paws on his hips and looking at Jack expectantly.

Jack sighs deeply. "Something tells me you won't let me off unless I say something. All right. It would be disappointing if they can't come back to school. They have good morals and I appreciate that, even if they pull tricks sometimes. I can appreciate their dependability too and that they're genuine in looking out for their people." Jack didn't seem to realize he was smiling.

"I'd like to say something too," Epel says. "They've always been welcoming every time I went to Ramshackle. It kind of reminds me of home. Not to mention, they don't judge me harshly if I. . . erm, say anything off."

Ortho excitedly joins in. "They've been really kind to me since their teddy bear introduced us to each other! They've told me so many cool things about their world and I look forward to going on outings with them. I'm happy to call myself their friend!"

"I may not be as close to them as you, Sebek, and our other friends, but their patience and kindness to me has never wavered," Silver says. "They're trustworthy, and I would like to repay them back fully."

"As do I," says Azul. "Although, I believe saving them from their Overblot would be enough for them helping with mine. Still, I have a feeling that even if I couldn't repay them, they would have shrugged it off." A little to himself, he adds, "In any case, I'm still looking forward to hearing their thoughts on the recent field trip."

"Koebi-chan's livened things up since they got dumped here. It'd be a bummer if they couldn't come back," says Floyd.

"I whole-heartedly agree, especially since they enjoyed the mushroom pasta Malleus helped me prepare. I would love to share other dishes with them," Jade says with a pleased smile. He doesn't see his brother's nose crinkle in disgust at the word "mushroom."

"It's so heartwarming seeing youngsters say how much they care about their friend and classmate," Lilia comments, smiling warmly. "I think I'll say a piece too. Yuu, it has been refreshing to have someone like you mingle with the students, and I'm not just referring to your magiclessness. You and your teddy bear have imprinted something, whether you realize it or not. When you awaken, I would be glad to share some of my cooking with you as Jade is willing to do."

He ignores the small protests around him. "I know I've said this before, but I must say it again for the situation: thank you for being friends with the dorm leader of Diasomnia and his trusted knights. You have been a wonderful presence to them."

"I want to say my thanks too," Riddle says. "Our first interactions weren't pleasant, but I'm glad you still wanted to be acquainted with me in the aftermath of my Overblot. It was very kind of you and I had and still appreciate it."

"Oh! Me next!" Kalim pipes up. "Yuu, it really is amazing how you can still keep going even though you live in a busted building and on a small budget. You've always been willing to help all of us, but from now on, you should lean on us too. I know I keep saying it, but I mean it when I say that Scarabia is always welcome to you."

"I'll be honest, it baffles me that you keep helping people even though you already have a lot on your plate," Jamil says. "I doubt you need to hear me talking about that again, but at least keep in mind that you can put yourself first and say no."

"What about you, nii-san? Do you have anything to say to the Prefect?" Ortho prompts, causing Idia to let out a strangled noise.

"Ortho, what are you doing, springing that on me???"

"Most of us said something, so now it's your turn!"

"Do I have to?"

"Come now, what would be the harm in saying a few kind words?" Lilia encourages.

". . . Eugh, fine. They're. . . more approachable than most of the normies in the school." After a couple of seconds, he says, "That's it."

"That's so short!" Grim complains.

"You asked me to say something nice and I did. Take it or leave it." What Idia didn't say, though, was that Yuu had a genuine calming vibe that he appreciated. Not many people have that effect. Don't get him wrong, though--he's still bummed out that they won't let him pet Grim.

"Guess it can't be helped," Trey says, shrugging. "Well, I guess I'll say something before anyone asks. Yuu, what I appreciate about you is that you're a good influence on the freshmen, even if it's really tiny. I also appreciate you helping with the baking and trying to stabilize everything, although I've started to realize that chaos happens whenever you're around most of the time. Still, it's great having you around."

Sheepishly, he adds, "This is only my impression of you. I'm pretty sure other people can say much better things about you than I can."

"Come on, Trey, it's a nice impression!" Cater says. "Though, I'd have to agree with you on the chaos part. Other than that, they have pretty good vibes and they're super approachable, not to mention cute and likeable." And a great person to sit in comfortable silence with--them and their teddy bear. No questions asked and seeming to understand him when he comes to them with a low battery. He appreciates it.

"That only leave Leona Kingscholar Ruggie Bucchi, and Malleus Draconia," says Ortho. "Who wants to go next?"

Leona huffs. "Let's get this over with. Your niceness and magicless status makes you stand out like a sore thumb, but we both know you're not entirely nice, even though everyone keeps saying it. You manage to pull off tricks and even dupe Azul; a completely nice person wouldn't do that. You don't need my approval for being a little impressive."

"But basically, they have your approval anyway," Ruggie says.

"I didn't say that, but if you or they want to think so, I don't care. Anyway, it's your turn."

"Hmm. . . I guess for starters, I appreciate them helping me carry leftovers out of the kitchen without asking for something in return. And it's refreshing to have someone who isn't familiar with this world. Sure, they could be secretly judgmental, but they're genuinely open-minded. It's just nice."

"I agree with Bucchi," Malleus says. "Their naivety was what allowed them to approach me without fear, but even after learning of my true identity, they still treat me casually and are willing to invite me to various activities. Their friendship is something I highly cherish."

Grim peers at Yuu's face. "You heard all that, henchman? You got people who like you. But of course, it all wouldn't be complete without me saying my piece. You're a handful henchman, but I wouldn't give you up for any other person. There's no one like you and you're good at what you do, and I recognize that as your benevolent boss."

"Why don't you also tell them that you appreciate them as a best friend?" Ace and Deuce tease, speaking simultaneously.

"Fnya--!" Bickering among the three begin, much to the amusement of half of the crowd. No one notices the teddy bear whispering to the unconscious Prefect.

"Yuu-Yuu is loved by friends very much, and [teddy's name] and Papa love you too!"

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

He's suddenly in the grey space again. Yuu is smiling now and the teddy bear in their arms has a happy face.

"I miss home a lot, but at the same time, I don't want to say goodbye to the friends I made here. I'd be lying if I said they haven't made it bearable to be away from home."

Around Yuu, sepia figures faded into existence, frozen and in various poses like a photo. Upperclassmen, peers, and friends. He saw himself among those faces.

"The people here are so interesting and unique. I really, really like them, and I want to support them and see them grow. That's why I wish to go home and have a way to travel between home and Twisted Wonderland, without any consequence."

Whatever emotion he had, there was an underlying warmth from knowing that someone thought of him in such a kind light (not that he would say it, of course).

[tortoisesshells]

Writing ask: 4, 7, 11, 16 & 18

4. ... with dialogue I'm proud of:

I've yet to find a character whose dialogue I've enjoyed writing quite as much as Jed Foster's. From the Mercy Street (but with vampires!) extended universe/pastiche/whatever -

“Are you this surprised when the rains arrive in April, Nurse Mary? Or, if I may dabble in plain Yankee with you, when the sap begins to run in March? We are in an army hospital. They send us, among other things, their dying.” “These men were not dying,” Mary insisted. “The difference between ailing and dying is a very thin one, then.”

7. ... that I nursed in a daydream before finally writing:

Ch. 21 of Customs and Duties was a weird one - I had it in mind for over two years before I got to it, but because it was, at heart, a chapter about imperfectly understood illness and quarantine I ... sort of lost heart for it, by the summer of 2022. Still, it's a turning point for Customs, and I had been looking forward to writing it.

Would she pick a fight with him, next? He supposed she might, though he was not inclined to give it to her. After a few moments of uneasy silence, Norrington took a risk and held out his hand for the pry-bar, and Elinor Treat reluctantly handed it to him. Without the tool she had been half-brandishing as a weapon, she seemed – exanimate. A puppet with its strings cut. The pry-bar felt damp in his hand, and he was unpleasantly surprised to find it had left red marks where he had taken hold of it: blood. Not his. “Mrs. Treat,” he said, very quietly and slowly, “Mrs. Treat, are you hurt?” “What? – oh. That.” Elinor Treat seized a kerchief from her pocket, and wrapped it around her hand. “I thought it had stopped bleeding days ago.”

11. ... with characters I want to write more in the future:

I miss Them (the cast of characters of potc). Here's from the last non-drabble I wrote for them.

Here, Elizabeth began to sift through her assets. It was a quick endeavor: a few dozen palm trees, a few dozen casks of rum, the damned pistol that Jack was guarding as though it were a token of a lover, the fire which was too small to even be seen clearly from the other end of her new home. In her great-grandmother’s time, when London burned nearly to the ground, the smoke could be seen from the surrounding counties as though it were a tower to the heavens – but she had not London to burn. That made lumber precious, didn’t it? Elizabeth had a brief, frustrated sense that she might have a better idea of how long she could keep the island ablaze if she had paid more attention to the consumption of fire-wood in her father’s household, but of late she’d shied away from the house’s accounts as though she could keep her future away likewise. She sized up the palm trees she did have, and, careful to be quiet, padded through the darkness to get a sense of how great around the trunks were – how long they might burn. If she were to set the island alight –

16. ... from a recent piece I want to brag about:

This is clever only to me, but, from nor light, Nor certitude, nor peace

"Her fingers were numb – centuries had changed many things about Collinsport, but the wind at Widows’ Hill was ever the same – bone-cracking, blood-chilling, cold. She struggled with the knot at her neck."

I cannot resist some foreshadowing - Vicki, the narrator, eventually is hanged (she gets better. mostly.) - hence the attention paid to the struggle with the knot at her neck. No one said anything about it when I posted, so I'm being annoying about it now. (there's also a point where Jeremiah quotes one of the first things his doppelganger in the 1960s said to Vicki, which clearly a man in the 1790s couldn't know anything about. surely.)

18. ... from that one WIP everyone has that has no plot, just vibes:

From my "Will Turner finds promotion to authority vastly overrated" post-AWE fic:

“The only deal I am prepared to offer you, Mister Beckett,” said Captain Turner, wearily, feeling as impatient as he ever had alive, “Is that which is available to all deceased souls. If that is of interest to you – see Mister Maccus, there. If not, get out my way.” Will didn’t look to see what choice Beckett made, and either his half-hour’s practice of the posture of authority or the dreadfully carved doors dissuaded any further complaints. The pipe-organ of the cabin seemed to be laughing at him.

send me a number and I'll send you an excerpt of my writing!

[idiotwithanipad]

How Agatha met Rogh

(TW: Death, Injury detail, Panic, Trauma from past abuse, Blood)

Agatha couldn't feel anything. No pain, no weight about her chest and middle, no saturated burlap sack against her face. Her eyes adjusted and could see nothing, the candles must have burned out. The basement and it's lack of ventilation became a furnace flue in the dark, fresh air a blessing in this part of the manor.

Her hands still remained bound above her head, but she could no longer feel the rough ropes. Almost as if to test her luck, she tugged her arms forwards quickly and felt no resistance. They weren't tied anymore. Agatha sat bolt upright, reaching her hands up to the sack covering her head. She wrenched the foul bag from her head and dropped her legs from the side of the table.

A man stood before her. A different man from the last two. He looked strange, Agatha didn't get a chance to take a closer look at him, as the burlap sack somehow, in the blink of an eye, materialised itself back over her head, plunging her back into darkness.

Agatha released a shrill scream at the sudden realisation that another man was with her, and at the fact that the terrible bag was back over her head. Did he put it back there? Was she to be punished further? Yet, there was no time to worry about the bag. Agatha fell from the wooden table and splattered onto the floor on her side, quickly gathering herself and getting to her knees, her hands grasping and feeling around on the floor for the strange man's shoes.

"Oh please, sir, no more! I hath taken such beatings on this night, sir, I hath wailed so! I can take no more weight, sir!" Agatha pleaded and sobbed, tears pouring from her swollen eyes. Her little hands grasped onto an object, a soft object; it felt as though she had gripped onto an animal. The silence that followed only made her sob and quake even more, her shoulders and covered head wincing and shying away at every second.

The softness of whatever her hands grasped began to move, shifting slightly and brushing against her fingers and wrists, the heavy aura the man gave off seemed to hover over her like a giant. Unseen to Agatha, the man hand crouched down and began to inspect the heavily blood stained sack.

"I hath been falsely accused, sir. I committed no such crime nor sin, I hath only breathed for 11 years, sir. I hath never bedded another, nor hath I wished so". Agatha sobbed, her fingers still clutching onto what she assumed to be a large, fur lined coat.

A small sound caught her attention, even the snuffling of a mouse would've alerted her in this state; the slightest noise making her picture those two awful men charging back into the basement to tie her hands again and lash her with leather.

The sound rippled above her head, slight at first, but it's volume and intensity grew by the second. Fearing her pleading sobs had been taken as an offense, Agatha retracted her hands and held them together before her covered eyes, reciting the prayer that her mother had taught her in times of sorrow.

The sound was of a man, the man she had just managed to catch a glimpse of before her vision became clouded by the blood soaked burlap. Breathing. Inhaling and exhaling. Sniffing.

"Look like it hurt..." Definitely a man's voice, the gravely drawl of it seemed to send shards of ice through her flesh. Agatha froze as she heard the scraping of fingers against the burlap above her head.

"I beg of thee, sir... No more, no more... I cannot take no more..."

Her cries were cut short when a warm, somewhat calloused hand came to gently hold onto hers, the thumb rubbing softly over her bloodied knuckles.

"No more" The voice agreed. The tone and depth of the voice changed to one of pity and understanding, the kind her father would take to her when she would cry.

"Why does thou seek me? I am but a scullery maid, sir. Hath I overlooked a chore? The dogs hath their meats? The candles hath been lit? The fires been stoked? I should cease my tongue, lest I wish to have it torn from my throat" Agatha winced. The unseen figure remained silent for a moment, for what reason, Agatha couldn't tell, nor see.

"Not maid no more. No pain no more. No more blood. Bad man not squeeze feet in rocks no more. Is done now. No more"

Come to mention it, Agatha didn't feel anything, she could barely even feel the Rocky basement floor grazing her knees beneath her skirts. All she could feel was the man's hands slowly and gently move to her underarms, lifting her off of the ground and onto the table again. Carefully, being gentle so as to not frighten her.

"Feet in bad shape. Pressed too hard. Snapped. Broken like stick" The voice seemed full of pity and concern, yet Agatha couldn't feel anything which the voice described. The description the voice gave made her mind conjour images of what her abused feet would look like if she could see them, the very mental image of it turning her faint.

Agatha rose her hand to pull the burlap sack away once again, before the man's gentle hand came up to clasp at her wrist to stop her.

"No. No look. Won't lie, it big bad, but me not want little girl to see it"

Agatha jolted at the sudden contact.

"How am I to go about my chores, sir? I hath work to tend to. Must be nearing my time to awaken, I must light the fires to warm the house before the family rises for morning prayers" Agatha panicked, fearing another lashing.

"No need to work no more. You ghost now, same as me" The voice spoke, reassuringly. The word rattled Agatha's pounding brain.

"You die on table with two men putting heavy rock on chest, you stop breathing and spit blood. Now you ghost, so no more work and pain"

The man couldn't see, but beneath the burlap sack, Agatha's eyes bulged in horror and confusion. Agatha had always been taught that St Peter would greet her after death. But there was no St Peter here.

"Bad men, bad death, painful. Even other ghosts didn't want watch" The voice commented, followed by a stirring from the floor above. A second voice called down into the basement from the wooden steps.

"Have they stopped yet? I couldn't bare to watch it, turned me stomach and that's sayin' a lot" A man called, his face peering between two balusters, his jagged and awkwardly set teeth chittered in his protruding jaw.

"Looks like they're gone now, Mick" A woman's voice soothed.

"They were 'oribble to 'er!" The strange looking man, presumably 'Mick' cried.

Agatha turned her covered face towards to source of the noise, but she still couldn't see past the burlap.

"Sir, this wretched bag will not keep itself from smothering me, sir. I cannot remove it" Agatha remarked, her fingers toying with the frayed fabric.

"You stay how you die. You die with bag on head, you stay with bag on head" The man said, almost too calmly, like he was well experienced. Agatha wasn't ready to accept that word, 'die'. Had she died? Is that why she felt nothing? How could she possibly survive a crushing that would kill even a grown man?

"Sir, I doth need air, sir. I must excuse myself" Agatha croaked, bowing her head slightly to the man and shuffling to drop herself down from the wooden table. Her twisted feet landed on the floor but soon after buckled when she took a few steps toward the stairs. She went hurtling forward, her arms flailing to find something to grab onto for leverage, only to collide with the stone floor.

"Oh. You okay?" The man called from behind her, shuffling closer and patting her back with his hand.

"I cannot seem to walk proper, sir. I'm to be given the boot, sir? Cast out to become a woman of the night?" Agatha whimpered, rubbing at the palms of her hands from her rough landing on the floor; she expected a few grazes, but felt no damage at all.

"No. You ghost, me told before. But can still go up there, come me show you" The man chimed. He carefully gathered the eleven year old maid into his arm and began up the stairs. The sickly looking, boil covered ghosts backed themselves against the walls as they watched the caveman pass. They looked at the state of the young girl, although they didn't see her face, they saw the state of her chest and feet, their eyes bulging in shock. One of them even started crying.

Agatha made sure to turn her face away from the man's; she was terrified that he too would scream and yell at her, her fists still clasped together as extra measure just in case she needed to say a quick prayer.

"There, this a big room, I call it 'Big Room'" The man finally spoke, Agatha could feel that he stopped walking and stood turning left and right in place.

"Sir, I cannot see much through this bag. Tis a task" Agatha mumbled.

"Oh... Well, is big room, red walls, picture of ugly man on wall with ugly woman and ugly boy, got swords on hip-"

"I should like to go back downstairs now, sir!" Agatha blurted, a harsh rattle in her voice.

"Ey? But only just got here. Said needed air-"

"Yes, sir, indeed I did, sir. And I hath gotten air now, sir... " Agatha's arms came up about her chest, forearms crossing over each other, the lace of her leather corset tickling down her cuffs.

The strange, still unseen man gave a small grumble of confusion and mild annoyance and turned on his heel, Agatha still in his arm. She flinched and practically buried herself under her own arms, snapping her face away from him and shielding her head with them.

"NO no, I beg thee, sir, don't!"

The man froze, his wide eyes stared at the state of panic the girl had gotten into from a mere few seconds; surely she didn't think that he'd hurt her, did she? Had he given that impression?

"Ey, me not hurt, have I?" He spoke, gently, being careful not to panic her further. It took a few seconds for Agatha's trembling to stop, her arms slowly lowered to rest neatly in her dirt covered lap.

"No, sir. Thou hath not risen thy hand to me in fury, sir..." Agatha agreed meekly.

The man began slolwy walking back towards the basement steps, carefully trying not to jostle her anymore, he didn't want her to think she was in danger.

"And my name not 'Sir'. It's 'Rogh'..."

[whomst-art-thou-whomst-whomst]

Tale of the Nine-Tailed Meta: Roleplay Therapy in Episode 11, or, What Am I To You?

Intro:

Okay sure it’s an elaborate act to trick Evil Baddie #2 but in episode 11, when Rang and Yeon switch places, pretending to be each other to lure the Imoogi in and get Rang out of his deal with the Evil Baddie #2?? They need to sell the family drama, right? They could have done it a lot of ways but they chose this way. Why? Maybe because it's easier to sell a lie that contains truth in it?

So I rewatched. And rewatched. And have come to the conclusion (again) that the writers are geniuses. Because this is fucking family therapy disguised as baiting psychopaths. Please note that I have not done family therapy, this is just my take.

I shall explain *starts powerpoint* So:

The latter half of this season has been about these two siblings coming back to each other, and while key actions have taken place that show they care (the forest rescue, the underworld guy confirming that Yeon is Rang's most important person), they are still lacking on communication.

This comes up twice with Yeon--first, when he's numbly enraged that Rang has shown Ji Ah her past life, and is preparing to give him a verbal (and boardgames) beatdown. He asks what Rang would want to be in another life, making the kind of idle conversation that makes Rang uncomfy because wait, what's the catch? And Yeon admits that he's realized they haven't talked, actually talked about something other than schemes or hostile banter in so long.

Later, after Rang's near death experience, Yeon takes him out to his ice cream spot and lets him steal some ice cream--again, Rang is jarred by this surprising indulgence. We don't see any of their interactions in the 600 years or so interim between The Execution That Wasn't and the present day, but we have to assume that things have been, uh, tense.

And Yeon admits it again--the thing we are all thinking, why didn't you just reach out to him? I mean this for both of them, but especially Yeon because hello, you STABBED YOUR TEENAGE BROTHER and waited 600 years to clarify that you weren't trying to kill him. All this time, you could have reached out, and so much pain and time and miscommunication could have been prevented?? How awful, on top of your existing guilt, to recognize that that was all it would have taken, and that you almost lost the chance to fix it. And yes, it's more complicated than that, but still--these two struggle a lot with communication.

The scene in question:

Which brings us to the scene where they are pretending to be each other, and act the way they believe the other one would act. It's a good cover, and yet. And yet. It’s also actually the only way they can be honest about their insecurities in their relationship.

It's not really an accurate representation of "this is how you think," because they don't know how the other really thinks about so many important things. “This is how you would act” becomes “This is what I believe you think of me, or what I think you SHOULD think of me” 

I don't think it's a coincidence that this whole arc removes the final barrier between them as siblings: after this, they speak about their feelings a lot more openly and honestly, Rang gets onboard with the squad planning to fight the Imoogi, and all it took was Yeon reaching out, Rang deciding not to betray his brother, and the two of them sitting at a table revealing what they believe the other thinks of them after 600 years of poor communication.

It's fitting that the Evil Baddie #2 is there for it--Yeon hates the guy for what he did to Ji Ah and his involvement with the Imoogi but in this context, this guy also represents Yeon's failure to protect Rang. If he hadn't stabbed his brother...if he hadn't stabbed him and then walked away...this guy wouldn't have had the chance to coerce Rang into a fox debt...

The brothers have to face each other and themselves at the same time. And if they want to sell it, they have to show the discord that is real between them, they have to use real material.

Essentially, it's an almost therapeutic exercise: here’s what you look like through my eyes.

For Rang:

Rang thinks his brother is disgusted and uncaring about the trauma he’s been through. He (acting as Yeon) brings up Ji Ah as an example of someone who "doesn't complain even though her history is as tragic as yours."

This honestly hits home--Yeon has a bad tendency, I think, to compare them as some guilty sort of avoidance, a claim that Rang should just get over it all; while Rang and Ji Ah both lost parent figures, their life experiences have been dramatically different, suffering and resilience are not competitions, and I like that Rang calls out how unfair this is (to both him and Ji Ah).

Similar to Ji Ah, Rang has likely spent the evening wondering whether to sacrifice Yeon. His life is at stake here.

(I’m still not sure how Yeon figured that part out?? Please someone explain how Yeon figured out Rang was on a deadline???)

But like Ji Ah, we will never really know what decision Rang would have made on his own. My headcanon is that one of the reasons Rang and Ji Ah are so antagonistic toward each other are because they are incredibly similar in how they love--almost feral, and ruthless if they’re desperate.

For Yeon:

Yeon (pretending to be Rang) complains about things he thinks Rang is angry about, which really reveals more about things Yeon is upset about.

It's clear during his act as "Rang" that Yeon knows he has let down Rang’s trust in him, and feels guilt for not openly acknowledging that Rang was in as much danger as Ji Ah: “If you worried about me half as much as her, I wouldn’t have done this. I couldn’t have.”

I think this also goes back to Yeon's guilt for leaving Rang and the mountains burning in his single minded focus to rescue Ji Ah. Like he’s saying he blames himself for Rang’s actions all these years.  There are so many subtle moments highlighting Yeon’s guilt. Mainly in his efforts to pretend Rang is fine or downplay Rang’s feelings. But here, Yeon expresses it the only way he can, removed from himself.

And I think Rang (as Yeon) finally releases him from the weight of that guilt by just responding, “You idiot,” you are an idiot for carrying this weight and thinking you are totally responsible.

Because Rang was influenced horribly by the things that happened to him, but he also made his choices.

“I wouldn’t say we made up, I just let him off,” he tells Yu-Ri later. Obviously they made up, but I think that’s more accurate wording. He lets go of his anger because he finally sees himself as Yeon sees him, and finally hears Yeon’s most honest expression of guilt.

Yeon still doesn’t think he "abandoned" Rang (Yeon and I still need to discuss that) but he more tellingly admits that he knows his brother looked up to him and totally trusted his brother would protect him--his heroic love sacrifice for Ji Ah was also, ultimately, a betrayal of trust for his brother.

UGH this script. UGH these characters.

I love that the writers finally got them into some therapy for five minutes. They didn't have to do the whole song and dance, because sure the Evil Baddie #2 is watching remotely but they could have had a quick "well it's shitty to see you, drink your coffee you dumb bitch" chat or sit in tense silence like the rest of us do with estranged family members and it might have been convincing enough, but they took the opportunity to talk, really talk, through a safe medium of the other.

Love this show.

[friendly-books]

Dresden files Peace Talk Live Blog

Content warning: Brief mention of SA I go off on a rant.

Dresden files Peace talk live blog

“My brother ruined a perfectly good run by saving “Justine is pregnant.” pg. 1 What a way to start a book

“He was one of the men who were so good-looking that it made people check around to see if they were being pranked.” pg. 1 Bi Harry 45

“Sorry to spoil your man time, Hemingway.” pg. 2 Ha

“I’ll have you know I’ve been a full time dad for well over a month, and Maggie isn’t dead yet. I clearly have mad parenting skills.” pg. 11 Ha and aw dad Harry

Carlos!

“The supernatural world had been kind of topsy-turvy lately. Some lunatic had managed to wipe out the Red Court of Vampires completely, and the resulting vacuum had destabilized balances of power that were centuries old.” pg. 16 Yeah Harry I wonder who would do that. Truly only a lunatic

“Marcone?” I demanded. Gentleman Johnnie Marcone, former robber baron of Chicago’s outfit was now Baron Marcone, the only vanilla human being to sign the Unseelie Accords. He’d managed that a few years ago, and he been building his power base ever since.” pg. 8 First Marcone mention and in the first chapter! Harry you were one of his signatures

“That was all him. Tell me that the Council doesn’t want me to be our emissary.”

Ramirez blinked “Wait what? Oh…God no, Harry. I mean…no. Just no.” pg. 8 Ha

“I took off the weighted vest with disgust and tossed it on the beach. It made an extremely weighty thump when it hit.” pg. 8 Nice Rock Lee moment

“I wonder if Harry Dresden is still Harry Dresden or if the Queen of Air and Darkness has turned him into her personal monster” look

I get that one a lot these days. Sometimes in the mirror.” pg. 9 Aw :( poor Harry

Mister!

Maggie!

I love Maggie and Bonnie

“As dumpy as it had been, that grotty little apartment had been my home. Damn the vampires, for burning it down. Damn Marcone, for buying the property and putting his new headquarters on the ground where home used to be.” pg. 21 I also miss Harry’s house. Also Harry, do you wonder why Marcone built his headquarters on your own house.

Is…is Harry sick?

“Runes and sigils of green light spangled the walls.” pg. 27 I don’t think Harry’s magic has always been green?

Ebenezar!

No wait Thomas is here and Eb doesn’t know they’re related oh no is there any chance they can all sit down and talk? Can we please all be grownups and communicate with each other just this once

“What is that thing here?” Ebenezar demanded

Thomas lifted his eyebrows. “Thing? Pretty bold assertion of righteousness from the White Council’s hatchet man.” pg. 30 Eb that’s rude to call Thomas a thing

“There has been a motion raised before the general Council to strip you of your status as a member of the White Council entirely.” pg. 33 Oh no

“If you look up unnecessary risk in the White Council’s dictionary, my picture is there. And my address. And all my personal contact information. And my permanent record from middle school.” pg. 34 Ha

“I’m being set up” pg. 36 Yep

“Stars and stones”

“Don’t say that,” he said, his tone slipping into a more familiar, grouchier cadence. “You don’t even know what it means.” pg. 40 Interesting

“Maggie,” he said quietly. His voice sounded rough. “Hello, young lady.” pg. 41 Aw

“How’d that work out?” I asked him. “Let’s ask Mom. Oh, wait. We can’t. She’s dead.” pg. 43 Poor Harry poor Eb

“Your mother is dead,” Ebenezar said. “Your father is dead. The woman who bore your child is dead. And you are the common denominator.” pg. 45 EBENEZAR! >:(

“but only a fool squared off against Ebenezar McCoy.”

(Yes. I am aware of the implications of that statement; I’d been doing it for like ten minutes.) pg. 47 Ha

Murphy!

“I don’t get to be me anymore,” she whispered” pg. 52 Poor Murphy :(

“So instead, I kissed her.” pg. 53 Harry/Murphy kiss!

“He was on the tall side of medium height, good-looking,” pg. 56 Bi Harry 46

Boo Rudolph

“And Marcone owns Rudolph,” Karrin said. She pursed her lips. “Or so we assumed.” pg. 64 He is!? When was this assembled?

“New colors”

“He made an alliance with a powerful guardian entity.” pg. 68 Interesting

Lara and Mab

“There?” pg. 71 How did Lara get three favors from Mab?!

“The embassy was on fire-and my daughter was inside.” pg. 74 Oh no :(

Earthwalk sounds terrible

“Why is everyone so shocked that I have a girlfriend?” pg. 80 Ha

Hope Carpenter!

Why ware the svartalves trying to take Maggie?

“Who did you lose?”

“Austri” pg. 87 Oh no poor Austri

“It was Thomas” pg. 90 What!? Why would Thomas try to assassin someone?

“And that’s why you’re sending me back?” Maggie asked” pg. 96 Aw poor Maggie :(

I love that Harry has plans for Maggie if he were to die again

“She hugged me tight again” pg. 99 Aw my heart :)

“He says you are,” Maggie said. “That you’re a good man. One of the best he knows.” pg. 99 My heart :)

Justine!

“Justine went limp and wept.” pg. 106 Poor Justine :(

“My friend. I recall you telling me about how one should respond to loyalty, once upon a time. That when you get it, you gotta give-it back, or else a man starts looking at those people like they’re things to be used.” pg. 112 Interesting shows Ebs teaching

Aw Harry and Eb are fighting :(

“If I do what is right, they’ll throw me to the wolves, huh?”

“Look in the mirror,” Ebenezar said harshly. “You are a wolf. That’s the point.” pg. 114 Ouch

“Outsiders” pg. 117 Oh no

“My mentor, my teacher, the most feared wizard on the planet, was frightened.” pg. 119 Oh no

Eb is so cool

This fight is so cool

Now they’re being chased

“why it’s damned stupid thing to trust vampires’ course.” pg. 126 You’re bringing this up now?! Now?

“Power against the Outsiders” pg. 128 So cool so Harry can fight the Outsiders. Wait did Harry’s mom plan Harry’s birth? Is that why Mab wanted Harry as the winter knight?

“please also observe that every single point of the plan is vampire-free.” pg. 130 Ha

“The whole pack is here. Now they’ll get serious.” pg. 131 The whole pack that’s a lot

“I don’t know.” pg. 133 Oh no

“Conjuritits? At your age?” pg. 134 What?

“Consulere Rex!” pg. 135 What. What kind of spell is this?

“Having a friggin’ Tyannosaurus Rex roaring out the tune of “Happy Birthday to You” at full volume is an entirely appropriate birthday present for Waldo Butters.” pg. 135 Ha

“And many moooooooooore!” pg. 138 Ha and yes I counted the o’s there’s 10

“God, I love working under pressure.” pg. 143 That’s good? Is this sarcastic? I think it’s sarcastic

“And I felt them.

Inside my head.

Felt the Outside.” pg. 145 Oh no

“I saw an image from their point of view-a being made of coherent light, a column of glowing energy centers, and pure dread, standing like an obelisk before the cornerhounds, a bolt of terrible lightning gathered around its upraised fists, head, and shoulders, like a miniature storm front.

I saw what they saw when they looked at me.

And I felt their fear.” pg. 145 So cool

“Because they took someone from me.”

“Mom?” I asked

His jaw muscles tightened. “Her too” pg. 148 Did vampires also kill Ebs wife? Whole family?

“Just…hurt.” pg. 149 Poor Harry

Butters!

“Okay. So the White Council wants to give you a hard time. So what else is new?” pg. 154 I’m with Buttes this isn’t new behavior from the White Council. This does bring back that quote from Elaine in Summer Knight “God, Harry. You can’t see it, can you? The Council doesn't care about you. They don’t want to protect you. They will only put up as long as you toe the line and don’t become an inconvenience.” pg. 150 The Council has never liked Harry. I’m more shocked that it’s taken this long.

“to recover is a solid sleep cycle” pg. 157 Knowing Harry that’s not going to happen

Andi!

Marci!

“He’s an adult human being, guys. And I’m tired. Draw conclusions, Harry.” pg. 159 Ha and throuple?

“Damn. Little guy had gotten all grown up on me.” pg. 160 Aw I’m so proud

Sayna is in town. Something is about to go down

“Who are you, and what have you done with Harry Dresden?” pg. 163 Ha

Riley! My guy you don’t get paid enough. Switch sides. Marcone probably has better benefits.

“Sister?” I asked “Oh, Sigrun Gard?”

“Freydis Gard.” pg. 170 Oh Gard has a sister

“Lara was a beautiful and dangerous as a hungry tigress, and very, very smart.” pg. 171 I’m seeing similar vibes to how Harry describes Marcone and Lara

“I thought it was closed to all outsiders then.”

She grinned and moved her hip in a little roll that made me want to stampede. “Have you looked at me?” pg. 173 Is Lara half Japanese or Korean or Chinese? Or is it because she’s pretty?

“Have you told his grandfather about him?” pg. 175 What!? Lara knows about Ebenezar?!

Okay don’t mess with Lara’s family good to know

“None of them were smiling.” pg. 186 Oh no

“Mistrusting me right from the get-go huh?” pg. 186 Not off to a great start

Can someone please de escalate this situation

“We’re friends” I said

“Then let us be your friends,” pg. 191 This isn’t how friends act. They don’t stalk, pull over their car, pointing weapons at them! Just let Harry explain and trust him.

“The last time I’d faced off with this many Wardens, they’d been there to arrest me, after the death of Justin DuMorne. I’d been sixteen. I’d remember how frightening those grim spartan figures had been.” pg. 192 That’s a lot of wardens after one warlock. Why so many?

Rant start

“He’s been with at least one sexual partner in the past several hours,” pg. 193 What. Is that the spell? Why would you make that spell? Why would you do that to Harry?

“And, as I realized what they’d been doing, my own anger started swelling dangerously. The Council had poked its nose in my business my entire adult life. It didn’t need to start poking it there. My heart started beating faster.” pg. 193 HOW FUCKING DARE THEY. >:( They have no right to know that information. The spell only seems to say that at least one and it seems to make no indication whatsoever if it was consensual. Maybe it wasn’t they (wardens) know that. They’re accosting Harry. Why do they care who Harry sleeps with? It’s none of their business. They don’t react this way to Mab when Harry becomes the Winter Knight. This is such an invasion of privacy. 

“Who was it?” Ramirez asked me, voice hard

“The nerve” I snarled

“Was it Lara?” he pressed. His jaw set like stone. “Harry, has she gotten to you?”

My fingers tighten on my staff until the wood cracked. “You’re crossing a goddamned line, Carlos.”

“Harry,” Chandler began, his tone soothing. He reached out to put a companionable hand on my shoulder.””

I struck it away

Chandler hissed and withdrew his arm, holding it close to his body.

“We have to know, Dresden,” Ramirez said. “Who did you sleep with tonight?”

“Because your sex life is a disaster, you pull this crap on me,” I growled” pg. 193 It’s none of their business. The nerve is right. They are crossing so many lines. Good if Harry doesn’t punch every single one of these Wardens by the end of the book I’ll do it myself and they deserve the backlash/back talk.

“Carlos face drained of color, but his expression never changed. “Believe it. Who?”

“Suddenly I remember why I have authority issues,” I said “Go fuck yourself Ramirez. And tell whoever ordered you to do this to me to pound sand while you’re at it.”

“Captain Luccio ordered me to do this,” Ramirez said quietly. “She’s still your friend. She wants to help you, too.”

“I don’t need this kind of help,” I said. “We’re supposed to be on the same side.”

“We are,” Chandler said emphatically. Then his face fell. “Unless. . . we aren’t, I suppose.”

“Ever word I’ve said to you is true,” I snapped. Or at least not a lie. “I’ve had enough bullshit from the White Council for one night.” pg. 194 Yes Harry has every reason to have authority issues. Tell him off Harry. LUCCIO! Why would you order this? I’m so disappointed in you. Did she think this was a good idea because of what happened to her and Peabody? If that’s why it doesn’t mean you get to be suspicious and be an unreasonable jerk to Harry. Why would the wardens agree to this? I thought they were Harry’s friends. Harry’s actually friends would sit him down and talk to him and trust him. This is an order you have to look at and disagree. You need to think for yourself. Why would anyone think this was a good idea?

Rant End

“Margaret Katherine Amanda Carpenter,” I chanted rhythmically, “I call you.” pg. 200 Ha

“I’m human. But this mantle isn’t like yours. It’s an order of magnitude more complex.” pg. 202 Interesting

“Molly had definitely become someone darker and more dangerous.” pg. 203 Oh no

“And more than anything else, it’s where you build that world that you want.” pg. 212 I love the passage about home

“My comfy, dumpy old apartment was gone, flattened by Gentlemen Johnnie Marcone to make way for his stupid little castle and the Bigger Better Brighter Future Society. I mean, that had only been after the Red Court of Vampires had burned my home down, but I guess I’d settled their harsh not long after. I was willing to call that one even.” pg. 213  Marcone mention! It’s a cool castle.

“I bowed my head at a light and wept.” pg. 213 Poor Harry

“Then perhaps you are the right person, in the right place, at the right time,” Michael said “Again. Have faith in that. And get some sleep.” pg. 218 I love this

Oh dear Molly hasn’t told her parents about being the Winter Lady

Pretty suit

Gary!

Sanya!

“He’d shaved his head entirely, and his scalp was the color of dark chocolate, covered with beads of sweat, and the blazing afternoon sun shone gratuitously upon all the muscles.” Bi Harry 47

“But knowledge good, too, da?”

“Da,” I said, firmly.” pg. 230 Of course Harry thinks knowledge is good

“And directly through Sanya’s wrist.” pg. 233 Oh dear

“He suddenly frowned. “Hey” pg. 234 Ha

“With an angel inside,” breathed Butters” pg. 239 So cool

“I accidentally ran it through the laundry once.” pg. 239 Ha

“The fete was being hosted at the Brighter Future Society’s headquarters, a small but genuine freaking castle that Gentleman Johnnie Marcone had flown over from somewhere in Scotland, stone by stone, and rebuilt on the lot of a burned-down boarding house.” pg. 242 Marcone mention!

“My old house.

Gone now

In fire

I wanted to go home.” pg. 242 Poor Harry :(

“When it got fully dark, Marcone’s castle would look like it was holding a flashlight under its chin.” pg. 243 Marcone mention and ha

“Technically, this wasn’t my first visit to Marcone’s little fortress, but it was the first time I’d done so physically.” pg. 247 Marcone mention

“M-Baron Marcone, the White Court, and the Paranetters have formed an alliance against the Former here in Chicago the past few years,” I said “Too many kids had gone missing.” pg. 248 Yep and I love that Harry has to stop and correct himself from just saying Marcone

“Wild Bill scowled darkly. “They turned to criminals and the White Court for help, did they?”

I straightened and turned slowly to Wild Bill, lookIng directly at him. “Their kids were being taken. And it wasn’t like we were helping them.”

Wild Bill quickly averted his gaze from mine. There was an uncomfortable silence.” pg. 249 Yep what were the White Council doing while Harry was dead? And the years after. It doesn’t seem like they were helping people. Where were the people supposed to go? Marcone and Lara were offering protection.

Childs!

German Shepherd! Doggy!

“My employer’s main concern tonight is that no one brings any explosive compounds inside,” he said calmly.

“Yeah. That would suck, if everything blew up and the place burned down,” I said “I speak from experience.” I might have given him a toothy smile as I said it.” pg. 250 Ha and come on Harry’s here. There’s going to be a fire.

I’m halfway through the book

“Marcone keeps a platoon of Einherjaren on standby. Remember?” pg. 251 Marcone mention

“Me, too. Just remember what I taught you.”

“Never start the fight. Always finish it.”

“Not that.”

“Make your bed and do your chores?”

“Not that”

“Something, something, never let them see you sweat.”

A grin flashed over the old man’s seamed face, there and gone. “Close enough.” pg. 252 Ha

“Marcone’s little castle had a large central hall that took up what had to be a goodly portion of its ground floor.” pg. 253 Marcone mention and this castle is so cool. I can’t wait for Harry to get it.

“And apparently, Baron Marcone had convinced them to help him.” pg. 253 Marcone mention and it’s interesting that Marcone got the Summer court to help

“And they were playing for Marcone’s party.” pg. 254 How many favors does Marcone have? And to who? How many did he cash in for this accord meeting? Why?

“I thought about the vaults we’d partially wrecked in the basement of Marcone’s bank, where he’d been entrusted with protecting assets from a dozen different supernatural nations at least. Just how many markers had Marcone given out? How many truly scary beings were in the man’s debt?

I frowned. The robber baron of Chicago was becoming a real concern.” pg. 254 Yep and I can’t wait to see him

“I blinked. Lara wasn’t exactly a ditzy party girl, but she was doing a damned good impression.” pg. 258 Oh Lara’s plotting

Oh interesting that the favor have an effect on Harry

Oh no ghouls are here

“I considered setting them all on fire for a while, until I started getting looks from the table. It was only then that I noticed how wildly I was smiling and moved along.” pg. 264 Harry hates ghouls so much

IVY! She’s here!

Where’s Kincaid?

Has it really been years since Harry saw Ivy?

I want Marcone. Where’s Marcone? This is his event. Hmmm =| 

Vadderung!

Ferrovax is here too?!

Genoakwa survived?! He’s here?!

Oh good it’s just RiverShoulder’s

The Forest People are joining the Accords!

Yes Harry is a good friend. I wish Carlos remembered that yes I’m still mad about it

“Blood on His Soul won’t forget.” pg. 270 That’s his name?! And he survived!? Ahhh!!!

“Yeah. Marcone had plenty of people here.” pg. 270 Yep

“Yeah, these parties are a hoot,” pg. 272 Yeah Harry isn’t great at parties

“Beowulf. Vadderung.” pg. 273 VADDERUNG was Beowulf! That’s so cool

River Shoulders is old

“You know what, Hoss Dresden?” pg. 275 So far three people have called Harry ‘Hoss’ Eb, Listen-to-Wind, and River Shoulders

“You pretty good about defying folk who need defying. And you’re getting better about fighting out who those folk are.” pg. 275 Yep

“Sometime, you want to learn more, come find me.” pg. 275 I hope Harry learns from Rivers

“Baron Marcone has given his permission, as host, for me to deal with this matter.” pg. 281 Marcone mention

“Baron Marcone, as host of this gathering, offered to hold my brother prisoner until the matter had been settled through an Accorded  emissary.” pg. 283 Marcone mention

“My read is that this whole conference is Marcone’s baby.”

I grunted agreement. “He’s actually doing what Cristos only thinks he is,” I said. “Building alliances.”

“And if you screw up Marcone’s plan? Karrin asked bluntly.

“His reputation takes a hit,” I said

“And he will respond to that.”

“Marcone is actually aware of the concept of payback,” I agreed.

Karrin glowered. “I don’t know all of the beings you deal with very well, Harry. But I know Marcone. And he scares me.” pg. 286 Marcone mention. Yeah Marcone is scary. So this is Marcone’s pet project.

“I love you,” I said.” pg. 292 Ahhh!!! :)

Yelp now they’re getting tailed

Why is everyone looking at Justine?

How do I only have 12 chapters left?

I like Freydis

“Are you seeing anyone?”

Murphy blinked.

“Mortals cheeks turned bright pink. “Um.”

Freydis frowned slightly and glanced from Murphy to me and back. “I don't mind sharing.”

“I’m . . . I’m Catholic,” Murphy said.

Freydis’s eyes shone with a wicked sparkle. “I don’t mind conflicted, either.”

Murphy gave me a somewhat desperate glance.

Huh. I’d officially seen everything now. Murphy asking for a rescue. From monsters and madmen, she’d never cried uncle.

It had taken a redhead.” pg. 309 Ha and Murphy didn’t say she wasn’t straight just Catholic so I’m putting that down as a Bi Murphy 2

“Marcone owns it.” pg. 317 Marcone mention

“It’s bullshit. However inconvenient you might be for them, whether any of them like it or not, you’re a wizard Harry.” pg. 319 You know what’s bullshit your intervention. I will be forever be mad about it

“Yet a wizard, Harry,” I growled.” pg. 319 Ha

I’m almost done and it’s only been four days

“Point is, I’ve already cast my vote on your behalf. So have most of the other Wardens.”

I was quiet for a second, with my throat a little tight. “Oh. Thanks.” pg. 319 That doesn’t make up for the intervention

“Don’t you like parties, Harry?” pg. 320 Ha and is that an understatement

“Wham. It was nearly audible, how fast his expression became a closed door.” pg. 320 Ah right Bombshell

“Why would he?

He was a friend. He trusted me.

I felt sick.” pg. 321 Is Carlos really your friend after the intervention. Does he really trust you? He was the one to mistrust and track Harry first

“Baron Marcone was a handsome man of middle years dressed in an immaculate gray business suit. Perhaps slightly taller than average, he had barely changed in all the years I’d known him. The few marks of age that had come upon him only made him look more reserved, severe, and dangerous.” pg. 322 Bi Harry 48 and MARCONE my guy is here finally! Look at him! I love him probably far too much. And yes Harry Marcone is handsome.

“Marcone glanced up as the White Council’s delegation entered together, and he looked at me for a moment, his expression neutral.” pg. 323 Marcone mention and I love that Marcone looked at Harry. I wonder what he’s thinking?

“I returned the look with as much of a poker face as I could, and we both looked elsewhere at the same moment, as if we’d planned it.” pg. 323 Ha

“I briefly toyed with the image of Marcone, with several missing teeth, reclining in a dentist chair for repair work while Gard and Hendricks menaced the poor DDS with their glowers, and it made me smile.” pg. 324 Ha

“If any underworld boss in the world had a dental plan for his employees, it would be Marcone.” pg. 324 Yep

“I should probably be looking into a checkup for Maggie before she went to her new school in the fall,” pg. 324 Ha and yes dad Harry

“Oh. You just went from a three to a six, seidermadr. I like men who look past the surface of things. And you can dance.” pg. 328 Ha and yes Harry can dance

“One of Marcone’s people in the in the red jackets looked like he might disagree with me going up the stairs to the gym” pg. 331 Marcone mention

“The guard looked from me over toward Marcone’s camp. Marcone didn’t look up from  his conversation, but Hendricks, his right hand, gave the guard a nod.” pg. 331 Marcone mention and what is he thinking?

Why are Harry and Lara undressing?

“Marcone had to give in with grace and installed dumbwaiter doors.” pg. 333 Marcone mention and ha

Why are they getting in the dumbwaiter? How can they both fit? How can Harry fit?

“Oh. You and the policewoman? Congratulations, wizard.” pg. 334 Yes true love protection

Wait I need to go back I missed Gard and Hendricks description because I was distracted by Marcone

“had grown out a short beard that had come out several shades darker than his hair,” pg. 323 Hendricks has a beard!

“on top of Lara in the boxing ring, making out furiously.” pg. 336 What. Why? Out of all the illusions you go with that one? After that “intervention” if anyone sees it won’t be good for Harry

I hope the guard will be ok

“Because it was my door.

My door, mine, from my old apartment; the door to my sub basement lab.” pg. 347 Harry’s basement! Does Marcone know it’s Harry’s lab? Why did he keep it? Has Marcone gone into the lab? Can he? Ah it’s a piece of Harry’s home.

“Hells bells, I wanted to feel like I was home again. And instead, I was standing in Marcone’s house.” pg. 346 Well it’s going to be Harry’s house soon.

Poor Thomas :(

“You’ve got conjuritis? I’ve heard about how awkward it can be when wizard kids get the disease. Aren’t you a few. . . decades old for that?” pg. 354 Interesting could Harry have gotten it from Maggie? Does being isolated to just him, Justin, and Elaine in their adolescence play a part? Does Harry have a longer lifespan than other wizards so now in his 40’s he still considered young enough to get conjuritis? Why does Lara know about conjuritis? Did Thomas, Molly, Maggie, or Charity? ever get conjuritis? Am I massively overthinking this probably

“The whole time I got dressed, I did my best to ignore the image in the boxing ring” pg. 355 It’s still going on?!? Why?

The potion from Fool’s Moon!

“He loved books.

He took me to see Star Wars movies.

Him and me.” pg. 360 Aw Harry’s dad got him into Star Wars :) My heart

Oh no Ferrovax can see Harry

Oh good Vadderung is helping

“None of the valets or staff survived.” pg. 367 Oh no

Noooo Gwynn ap Nudd I liked you

“YOU DARE! YOU ARE A GUEST IN THIS HOUSE!” pg. 374 Oh dear Mab is mad

“I remember how you wept when Merlin cast you out.” pg. 813 What!? Mab and Merlin

What

Just

Happened

Did the being just kicked Mab through the wall?

Who is the bronze lady?

“Gentleman John Marcone stepped out from the unmoving Gard, impeccable in his suit. He didn’t look frightened, though he had to be. He simply stepped forward, clear of his guards, and said, “Good evening, madam. I am Baron John Marcone. This is my home. Might I have the pleasure of knowing how you wish to be addressed?” pg. 378 Marcone mention and what are you doing Marcone?

“The goddess narrowed her eyes, watching Marcone with the kind of revulsion that one normally sees reserved for a swarm of maggots. She shook her head, dismissing Marcone from her attention as she fixed her gaze on Vadderung again.” pg. 378 Marcone mention and don’t you look at Marcone like that.

“This is your host?” she demanded. “You permit a mortal among you? Where is your dignity? Where is your pride?” She shook her head. “This world has gone astray. We have failed it. And I will no longer huddle fearfully in the seas and watch the mortals turn it into their filthy hive.” pg. 378 Who made you the judge, jury, and executioner? And Marcone is cool.

“The goddess walked forward, starting down at Marcone. She circled him, shaking her head in judgement and still no one moved.” pg. 378 Don’t you shake your head at Marcone

“Chicago fell into total darkness.” pg. 381 Oh no

“A solid quarter minute of stunned silence followed before Gentleman John Marcone hauled himself to his feet, looked around at the destruction and confusion in the hall, and mused, “It would seem we have the Formor’s answer with regards to the peace process.” pg. 382 Marcone mention and yes Ethniu made her statement quite clear

“The dead, it would appear,” Marcone said. He started for the high seat and offered a hand to Molly. She glowered at him but took his hand and rose with a polite nod. He spoke in a low, intent voice that wouldn’t be overheard by most of the room. “Assess Mab, please, Winter Lady.”

Molly stared at him for a second. Then she went over to the hole in the stone wall behind high seat. She stared for moment and said, “What’s on the other side of the wall?”

“Storage,” Marcone said

“On the other side of that,” pg. 382 Let Marcone help you up Molly.

Yes Marcone call out LaChaise

“Are you a coward, sir,” Marcone asked, his voice deadly quiet.

“A question, sir,” Marcone said. “Not a statement.”

“Tread carefully, mortal,” LaChaise said. “I would be pleased to use your own entrails to make sausage links.”

“I ask the question,” Marcone said, “because your next actions will show everyone here what you are, LaChaise.”

“Marcone’s voice cracked out. You are a guest, sir. In my house.” pg. 384 Let him have it! Marcone’s so cool

“Once you awaken them, frighten them, you anger them. They will lash out at any supernatural threat they can find” pg. 386 Yep humans are scary

“It meant that the Last Titan was in league with the Outsiders.” pg. 390 Oh no

Yes Marcone taking control of the situation

“But Chicago’s streets had changed.” pg. 394 Oh no

“And being initiated to the supernatural world was difficult even when it happened gently-much less when it rolled up and ripped someone’s face off.” pg. 396 It’ll be interesting to see what happens when the masquerade comes off

“You fool,” he said. “You damned fool.” pg. 399 Oh no

“Don’t you see, boy? You’ll be vulnerable, compromised. Mab, and this creature, they’re isolating you. That’s what abusers do.” pg. 402 Yep

“And then me and the old man went to war.” pg. 403 Oh no

“But he deserved the truth. Had to have it, really.” pg. 411 This is how you’re going to tell him

“Good talk.” I said. “Wizard McCoy.” pg. 413 My heart :( ow will they ever recover from this?

“It hurts” I said quietly. “Oh God. It hurts.” pg. 416 Poor Harry :(

“The Eye of Balor” pg. 420 The what?

Alfred!

Lara stop

“Murphy was holding a live grenade to either side of their heads.” pg. 439 Murphy what are you doing?!?

“Gods, that’s hot,” pg. 440 Ha

“I’d heard the tone before. Back when I’d had to put the fear of, well me, into a vampire named Bianca. We’d sort of been amicable opponents up until that point. Things changed when I’d made her feel helpless. Things had gotten a little complicated.” pg. 441 Bianca just keeps haunting the narrative she’s been dead for what a decade? We’re still dealing with the repercussions of her party.

Ok so Harry’s plan is to trap Ethniu

“I thought of the hideous scarlet light of the Eye, tearing through Marcone’s little fortress.” pg. 455 Final Marcone mention and how are they going to get Ethniu to DeamonReach?

Final thoughts

Good book. I liked the fights and thought it was funny. I wish there were more Marcone moments but I always want that so that’s not new. We're up to Bi Harry 48 moments and Bi Murphy 2. Not sure how everyone is going to defeat the Formor and trap Ethniu. I’m sad about Eb and Harry’s fight. I was too sad to comment much about the fight. Poor Thomas I’m not sure how he’s going to come back and I have no idea what’s going on with Justine. I want someone to punch Carlos and co. for their “intervention” and I want to punch Luccio. That was such a long rant not sure if it made any sense. I think that was the fastest I’ve ever read a chapter book before. Only six days. While I want Carlos to get punched I am concerned about him. With his talk of pliers in cold case, the talk about lower power practices, and how he’s always been more of the White Council favorite than Harry. I can see him getting more extreme or more in line with the fanatics. I liked the dad Harry moments. I loved the Harry/Murphy moments. I can’t believe I’m saying this but I can’t wait for Harry to be kicked out of the White Council. What have they done for Harry?

Onto the comics. Not sure how I’m going to format that. Yes I’m procrastinating reading Battle ground. I’m not ready.

[euclydya]

For the song asks 11, 28, and one of your your choice!

We'll also give you a favourite lyric too from each song cuz why not lmao

11: A song that you never get tired of - Hmm... Sleep by My Chemical Romance. This song's extremely important to us, and though we don't listen to it often due to a lot of shit associated with it (it's one of Those Songs ya gotta be in the right Mood for, to us) when we listen to it we'll absolutely never get tired of it. It's gotten us through a lot over the years tbh!

Favourite lyric: The hardest part's the awful things that I've seen

28: A song by an artist with a voice that you love - You'll get two answers for this one since we can't decide, so, firstly we have Alone With My Thoughts by Chonny Jash! Not the first CJ song I was gonna choose but the one I had in mind (Be Born) doesn't actually showcase his Real Voice lmao. We May Still Be Biased™ but Chonny's got a great singing voice imo. I'd say more but it is nearly 6 am and we haven't slept yet ajsjdjsksjdjsjd

Favourite lyric: This will be my final entry

I'm tired, I'm done, I'm empty

My spirit's all but left me

The end of the universe doesn't impress me

Second, we have Geek U.S.A by The Smashing Pumpkins! Sayyyyy what you will about Mr. William Corgan's Voice™ but the high pitched whininess really fits TSP's sound imo. His vocals are,, unique I think in that Whooo the fuck else sounds like that lmao. He most certainly Sounds Like A Rat In A Cage™ and it's awesome actually. Synesthesia-wise his voice can make any song sound pastel as fuck (Very Good) unless it's drowned out by some loud ass guitar, which they do sometimes FHDJSJFJ

Favourite lyric: And then I knew we'd been forsaken,

expelled from paradise

I can't believe them when they say that it's alright

3: A song that reminds you of summertime - She's A Handsome Woman by Panic! At the Disco! The whole album this is off of is a huge Summer album for us actually! But this song in particular always gave off Summer vibes a bit more than the others, I dunno why. We have a lotta good memories associated with this song; going out to parks and fishing with our family, staying outside all day on swing sets singing along to our favourite songs with our siblings... Fun times! We miss em tbh. Haven't done any of that shit in years fhdjsjdjf

Favourite lyric: Beat backbones

Grazed the poem and made it strange

I wasn't born to be a skeleton!

[thisisevenharderthannamingablog]

Liveblogging notes for ep 11.

Sorry shippers, I gotta click the fast-forward a few times here, hope I don't miss any important bits. Did by sheer coincidence pause on "no legacy is so rich as honesty." Interesting.

Gun straight in with a clearly practiced right to the jaw. What a lovely family dynamic. Pete's like I am being tortured in a whole other way now, fun!

Gun doesn't want Porsche hurt...? This is the most we've seen of Gun all season, and his overt violence is a sharp contrast to Korn. Pete obviously isn't supposed to leave that room alive even before the gun is handed over, and he is side-eyeing Gun so fucking hard ah, I think I see the root of the problem here.

Vegas arranging for Pete to have "vacation" is certainly A Thing. Grandma appears to have total knowledge of Pete's job situation. Vegas is so wonderfully awful, as in I am in awe of how this character is constructed. The camera angles are constantly shifting and off-kilter in this scene.

Kinn actually checked up, too. Interesting. Trying to be a better boss these days? And he wants to let Porsche leave like Chay wants. This is the most relaxed outfit we've seen him in since the date, too. Korn looks way more distressed about this development than he did about getting Ken's head delivered in a gift box; Khun has Opinions. Kinn, you set yourself up for this, but well done with the declaration. Khun is so fucking delighted for his little brother.

OMG everybody listening in at the door. Discipline has gone straight to hell around here since Porsche joined. Arm is the best. Chan why is your gun drawn wtf.

Longest. Pause. Ever.

So there's like 5,000 rules in this place but none about fraternization?

Porsche is not sure this is a good thing. That's smart of him. All of his friends are cute though.

Interesting what they did with the lighting here to establish visual continuity with the minor house dungeon. Ah, the (in)famous hedgehog. Bizarre pet choice.

Porsche what? The number of times now that I have watched a scene in the show and said, "I thought that post about this was a JOKE" is fairly high now.

Back to Kim, still on the trail, trying to figure out who killed Porsche's parents, thinking that they are a link that might explain why his dad is so invested in this guy. We learn here that Porsche's parents had money and the details of the accident have been redacted.

Chay's got a new thousand-yard stare since the kidnapping. Poor kid. So much money and y'all don't have any therapists on staff. Real talk going on here, about time. (My chess theory, Chay is Porsche's king piece. He's in Korn's house now, danger zone.) And Porsche you've almost gotten killed like six times in this job, what is this bullshit.

On the one hand, Chay has a good point. Anything happens to Porsche, wtf is going to happen to Chay now? On the other hand, Porsche has been forced to be parent and provider and everything to his brother for most of his life. Any parenting book will tell you that parents need to keep something in reserve for themselves; Porsche deserves his own life and his love.

A choice looms. With Porsche's reply, this is the first time the narrative has raised the possibility of a third way, a solution that doesn't leave anyone out.

And skip right to Vegas and Pete for the thematic emphasis: "Do you think you can choose?" "I'm not choosing." Yet another lens on the issue -- what happens to choice if you reject the validity of the paradigm? If one of the options isn't a choice at all? Shit's getting deep in this goofball show.

So let's switch to domesticity and Kinn's friends being menaces. (Didn't Kinn used to sleep with a gun?) Porsche is so not used to any of this, but you gotta love how they're basically married already. I'm glad he has Yok looking out for him.

Aaaand back to Gun winning "father of the year" wow. "Childhood's End" huh real subtle choice show. Gun you do realize he's gonna fucking kill you one of these days?

Love every second of Khun winning hearts and UH-OH I was wondering when this was going to drop. Chay's little world has just ended. (Maybe you would feel differently if you had seen how amazing he looked coming to your rescue? No, I suppose not.)

Vegas you're lucky he isn't dead already wtf do you usually not play with your toys this long.

Forgot to mention this earlier but I really love the jewelry choices for all the characters.

Never failing to make everything AS WEIRD AS POSSIBLE love you Vegas. This scene is hella compelling though. Bonding with your torturer over a shared history of child abuse, check.

Wow Kim, that was ice cold. (Also WTF are you doing there? Thought you never visited.) You broke Chay. You heartless bastard.

We seem to be bringing the city views into more and more focus with these two? Honestly it's such a relief when things go well for a character.

WTF Gun do you stop by every day just to beat your son and then leave? This is getting even weirder. So Pete's going to try staying alive to see what happens? I'm more than a little surprised that they decided to make Vegas a reader. Just doesn't seem like he'd have the patience.

Kim still working and annoyed enough about all the dead ends that he's started throwing his family name at the problem. So it was Korn who had the accident hushed up. Doesn't it suck when you're right about something.