#it's about curiosity and exploration and bracing the unknown

[dinodontwait]

Epistles of Love(Preview/Teaser)

Summary: In a charming and new suburb, y/n stumbles upon cryptic letters from Woozi, unveiling a tale of love and heartbreak. As the past unfolds through Woozi's words, will y/n risk her heart to uncover the secrets hidden within each carefully penned letter?

Genre: Romance, Mystery, Suspense, and Contemporary Fiction.

Trope: Slow-Burn, Strangers-to-lovers?

Main Characters: afab!y/n , Woozi, Amour( real names will be revealed later)

Supporting Characters: Jeonghan, Mingyu, Seokmin, Myungho, Suengkwan and Soonyoung(This list might change as the story progresses)

Word Count: 1.3k

Release Date: 28th February

A/N:

Thank you all for your incredible enthusiasm and support! Seeing the strong response to the poll, I couldn't wait to share a sneak peek of what's in store for this story. Brace yourselves for a thrilling ride as I embark on this writing journey. Currently, I've crafted the first part, and I've sprinkled some teasers within this preview.

I'm envisioning this fic to unfold as a mini-series, spanning about 2-3 parts. However, keep in mind that I've only completed part 1, and there might be room for expansion as fresh ideas come my way. My target word count for the entire fic is around 30k, but who knows – that could evolve with the narrative.

As I dive into the world of writing, I'm aware that there might be a few bumps along the way. If you spot any mistakes or have suggestions, please feel free to let me know. I'm still learning and appreciate your input!

Thank you for joining me on this writing adventure. Your encouragement means the world to me! 🌟❤️

Holding the old-fashioned envelope in her hands, y/n hesitated. The letter inside seemed personal, like a peek into someone's private thoughts. She pondered whether to read it or not, feeling a mix of curiosity and respect for the past occupant's privacy.

The vintage style of the envelope, with its intentional old-timey vibe, hinted at a story waiting to be told. The decision to open it felt like standing on the edge of someone else's feelings and memories. The inked words on the letter, still folded, held the potential to reveal a part of someone's life not meant for casual eyes.

The mystery and curiosity won over her reservations. With a quiet determination, y/n decided to unfold the letter, ready to explore the hidden stories and emotions that the pages might unfold. The choice to step into this unknown space felt like opening a door to someone else's past, and she took that step with a mix of trepidation and anticipation.

Dear Amour,

In the silent embrace of this letter, the ink traces the echoes of a day that etched itself into the fabric of my existence.

The day unfolded like a poem, a delicate dance of moments that wove themselves into the very essence of my being. It was as if each passing second became a verse in the story of a land parched for the sweet touch of rain. The air, thick with anticipation, carried me toward a nearby cafe—an enclave of serenity that stood as a refuge from the monotony of the ordinary, a sanctuary where possibilities unfurled like petals in the gentle breeze.

Since the tapestry of my memories began, I've been the silent observer, finding solace in the quiet corners of my home. The contours of my existence were shaped by the solitude I sought, a realm where the whispers of my thoughts resonated in the stillness. Yet, on that fateful day, a gentle pull, like the invisible hands of fate, tugged at the strings of my solitude. It was an urging, a call to step into the unexplored territory of the cafe—a space that held the promise of encounters yet to unfold.

The very decision to step into that cafe marked a departure from the familiar script of my life. The door swung open, not merely to a physical space, but to the uncharted landscapes of possibility. With each step, I traversed the threshold of routine, embracing the unknown with a heart open to the serendipitous wonders that awaited within the walls of that sanctuary.

The aroma of freshly ground coffee beans greeted me, weaving a sensory tapestry that spoke of warmth and familiarity. It was then that I saw her—the girl who, unbeknownst to her, would redefine the contours of my existence. She stood there, a living canvas painted by the hands of fate, the light wind playing a delicate symphony with the strands of her hair.

Her presence seemed like a stroke of destiny, a chapter written in the celestial script of our intertwined stories. As our eyes met, time suspended itself, and the ordinary boundaries of reality blurred. It was a moment that transcended the mundane, as if the universe conspired to orchestrate a connection, an unspoken agreement unfolding in the silent language of glances and smiles.

Her eyes, pools of warmth and mystery, held secrets and stories yet to be told. They mirrored the reflection of a kindred spirit, resonating with a depth that transcended the superficial. It was in that gaze that I felt the tendrils of an invisible thread weaving itself between our souls, binding us in a silent understanding that surpassed the limitations of spoken words.

In the symphony of that moment, the cafe transformed into a sacred space, a stage where our destinies briefly intersected. The ordinary chatter of patrons faded into background noise, leaving only the echo of our shared gaze. And in that silent exchange, a connection was forged, setting in motion a series of events that would shape the course of our intertwined narratives.

The girl I saw was you, and you had me the moment you looked at me. Your gaze became the catalyst for a myriad of emotions, unraveling a story written in the language of fate and woven into the very fabric of our shared existence.

Each recollection of that encounter is like a cherished melody, a timeless tune that plays on a loop in the quiet chambers of my thoughts. The symphony of that moment, the laughter echoing in the cafe, the delicate clink of coffee cups, all compose a melodic ode to the serendipity that unfolded that day. It's a melody that resonates through the corridors of my mind, an everlasting refrain of a connection that defies the constraints of time.

In these moments of reflection, the word "Amour" echoes through my mind, a gentle whisper that transcends the ordinary definitions of fate. It's more than a term; it's a name, a label that carries the weight of our shared connection. The mere utterance of it conjures images of you—the girl who became the focal point of a destiny written in invisible ink.

So, let this letter be a testament to the serendipity that brought us together—the day the drought of my soul quenches its thirst with the rain of your presence. Every word etched on this paper is a silent acknowledgment of the profound impact you've had on the rhythm of my life.

In the quiet solitude of my room, as I pen down these words, I find myself grappling with the uncertainty that shrouds our future. This letter, crafted with the ink of genuine emotions, might never reach your hands. I am left to wonder if our paths will ever cross again, if the serendipity that united us will weave its magic once more.

Yet, even in the face of this uncertainty, I write with a glimmer of hope—a hope that transcends the boundaries of time and distance. This letter becomes a vessel, carrying not only my sentiments but also the silent yearning to see you again. And even if this letter remains unsent, floating in the sea of unsent letters, it stands as a testament to the sincerity of my emotions and the silent hope that someday, our stories will intersect again.

Yours in reminiscence,

Woozi

The words lingered in the air as y/n absorbed the emotions woven into each sentence. The letter had painted a picture of a connection that transcended time and space. The vintage charm of the envelope seemed to have carried not just a message from the past but a piece of a love story waiting to be unfolded.

As she set the letter aside, the room felt different, as if the walls whispered secrets that begged to be heard. It felt like the quiet town held more stories than she had initially imagined, and within its embrace, she found herself entangled in the enigmatic tale of Woozi and Amour. She hoped to find more, but the letter just ends, and she keeps thinking about it. The night enveloped the town in its quiet embrace, and y/n found herself entangled in the web of possibilities. The journey into the unknown had just begun, and the quiet town, with its cobblestone streets and whispered rumors, held the key to a myriad of untold narratives.

With a heart brimming with curiosity, she hoped to uncover the layers of mystery that clung to the very fabric of her surroundings. But for now, the letter remained a silent witness to the unexplored depths of the town's history. Its words, though poignant and evocative, were a mere prologue to the stories that awaited her. As she drifted into contemplation, the vintage envelope and its contents became a beacon, guiding her into a world where love and suspense danced in tandem, inviting her to be a part of a narrative that defied the boundaries of time.

[zapreportsblog]

I Just Want To See The World Burn

➥ summary : In a world where the hero’s in the comics always win a brilliantly deranged young mind creates a multidimensional traveling watch to their universe where she helps the bad guys become #1

➥ chapter 1: the watch of possibilities

In the small, cluttered laboratory of a brilliant young woman named (Y/n), the air crackled with anticipation. (Y/n) had spent years delving deep into the laws of science and exploring the fascinating realm of multidimensional physics. Her insatiable curiosity had led her down a path of discovery and a burning desire to unravel the mysteries of traveling to other dimensions.

Guided by her relentless pursuit of knowledge, (Y/n) had dedicated countless hours to meticulously studying the works of great minds who had dared to venture into the uncharted territory of interdimensional travel. She immersed herself in the works of visionaries such as Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking, and countless others who had paved the way for understanding the enigmatic realm of parallel dimensions.

As (Y/n) poured over the intricate equations and theories sprawled across her laboratory table, a thought began to crystallize in her mind. She yearned to push the boundaries of what was known, to challenge the limitations of reality itself. And so, with equal parts trepidation and excitement, she made the decision to embark on a daring experiment—a project that would forever alter the course of her life.

Her ambitious plan centered around the construction of a watch, a device that would become her portal to other dimensions. (Y/n) knew that the journey she was about to undertake was fraught with peril, but her thirst for knowledge and the allure of the unknown propelled her forward.

The construction of the interdimensional watch became an all-consuming obsession for (Y/n). She poured her heart and soul into every intricately crafted piece, ensuring that each component was precisely calibrated to withstand the immense forces that awaited her on the other side of the dimensional barrier.

Days turned into nights as (Y/n) toiled away in her laboratory, meticulously assembling the intricate mechanisms that would power the watch. She pushed herself to the limits of her mental and physical endurance, fueled by a relentless determination to succeed in her audacious endeavor.

As the final piece of the interdimensional watch fell into place, a surge of both excitement and apprehension coursed through (Y/n)'s veins. The moment of truth had arrived. She gazed upon the watch, a small and unassuming object that held the power to transport her to realms beyond imagination.

With a deep breath, (Y/n) cautiously strapped the watch onto her wrist. It felt heavy with possibilities, its weight a reminder of the risks she was about to undertake. Her heart raced as she contemplated the potential outcomes of her experiment—would she unlock the secrets of other dimensions or succumb to the dangers that lay hidden within?

The room fell silent as (Y/n) pressed a small button on the side of the watch. The device hummed to life, emitting a faint glow as the gears and circuits sprang into action. Time seemed to stand still as (Y/n) stared at the watch, awaiting the moment when reality would shift and open the door to a world beyond her own.

A surge of energy pulsed through (Y/n)'s body as the watch activated. The laboratory filled with a blinding light, and for a fleeting moment, it seemed as though the boundaries of the known universe dissolved into the ether. (Y/n) braced herself, ready to traverse the uncharted territory that lay before her.

But then, with a sudden jolt, the light vanished, leaving (Y/n) standing in the same laboratory where her journey had begun. The watch remained inert on her wrist, and a sense of disappointment washed over her. Had her experiment failed? Had her dreams of interdimensional travel been shattered?

Exhausted and disheartened, (Y/n) sank into a chair, contemplating the implications of her failed experiment. Yet, even in the face of disappointment, a spark of determination ignited within her. She refused to be deterred by a single setback. The pursuit of knowledge and the allure of other dimensions still beckoned her, urging her to continue her quest.

Chapter 1 marked the beginning of (Y/n)'s journey—a journey fueled by passion, curiosity, and an unwavering desire to unravel the secrets of interdimensional travel. As she grappled with the disappointment of her initial experiment, a newfound resolve took hold. The road ahead promised challenges and unknown dangers, but (Y/n) was undeterred, ready to push the boundaries of what was known and step into the realm of the extraordinary.

[burrito-express]

Welcome to Roswell UFO Festival & Entertainment

The Roswell UFO Festival is an extraterrestrial extravaganza that will defy your wildest imagination! Brace yourself for the mind-bending Roswell UFO Festival & Entertainment, where cosmic wonders, bizarre curiosities, and endless fun collide in an enchanting celebration. Located in the heart of Roswell, New Mexico, this extraordinary event commemorates the 28th anniversary of the legendary 1947 crash that propelled this captivating city to intergalactic fame. Visitors can embark on an extraordinary sensory experience, where captivating performances and a multitude of thrilling activities await you and your family. Immerse yourself in the enchanting Moon Maze, a journey that transports you to otherworldly realms, leaving you in awe of the celestial wonders. Unleash your inner astronaut in the Kids Zone, where cosmic games and imaginative activities will spark their creativity like cosmic fireworks. While you are there, be sure to stop into Burrito Express for an interstellar lunch or dinner that is light years from the Competition.

Roswell is the UFO capital of the world, where believers and skeptics unite in a mesmerizing dance of curiosity and wonder. The 2023 Annual UFO Festival New Mexico eagerly awaits your arrival, promising a weekend filled with interstellar exploration, captivating melodies, a galaxy of mouthwatering treats, and an array of family-friendly events that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Join us as we dive headfirst into the unknown, capture intergalactic memories, and revel in the cosmic glory of the Roswell UFO Festival 2023!

For over three decades, Burrito Express has stood as a beloved pillar of the local community.Since our establishment in 1984, our commitment to serving the finest homemade dishes and providing an exceptional dining experience has endeared us to our loyal customers. As a family-owned restaurant, we take great pride in being an integral part of the community and fostering a welcoming atmosphere that brings people together.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where do I buy tickets?

Tickets are not required for admission, as the festival is free. However, certain aspects of the festival (such as swag bags ($40), musical performances, and events) may require a paid ticket. Please check our website for ticket purchasing options.

Where is the festival located?

The festival takes place in Roswell, New Mexico, at various locations throughout the city. Check Home for details.

Is the event pet-friendly?

Pets are always welcome on the streets of Roswell, but when it

comes to many of the festival’s events, the festival is not pet-friendly, except for service

animals as required by law.

Should I bring children to the festival?

The Roswell Anual Roswell UFO Festival features fun for all ages—feel free to bring children to join in the fun!

Are alcohol and weed allowed at the event?

Alcohol consumption is permitted in designated areas and according to local regulations.

However, the use of marijuana or any other illegal substances is strictly prohibited during the festival. Please respect the laws and guidelines in place.

About Burrito Express

At Burrito Express, we believe in the power of food to create connections and forge lasting memories. Our restaurant has become a cherished gathering place for friends, families, and neighbors to come together and enjoy delicious meals in a warm and inviting setting. With our dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and preparing each dish with care, we strive to deliver a dining experience that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the spirit of Togetherness.

Beyond our culinary offerings, we are grateful for the support we have received over the years, and we actively seek ways to give back to the community that has embraced us. From sponsoring local events and initiatives to supporting charitable causes, we are committed to making a positive impact and contributing to the well-being of our community. Burrito Express is more than just a restaurant; we are a gathering place, a hub of community engagement, and a cherished institution that continues to serve as a symbol of unity and connection in the hearts of our customers. At Burrito Express, great food and an out-of-this-world community spirit await you!

[sciencestyled]

Aeneas and the Cosmic Capers: How a Trojan Hero Found His Inner Space Geek

Gather 'round, noble souls, as I, Aeneas, son of Venus and survivor of the fall of Troy, regale you with the tale of how the stars themselves conspired to ignite my passion for the cosmos. You see, it all started with a misadventure of celestial proportions.

It was a day like any other in the realm of heroes and demigods. I had just finished my morning routine—prayers to the gods, checking on my fleet, and a quick sparring session to keep the heroic physique in top form. Little did I know, a cosmic escapade was about to unfold, much like my own legendary trek from the ashes of Troy to the foundations of Rome.

The catalyst for this adventure was none other than my dear friend, Anchises' eccentric cousin, Philemon. Philemon, an inveterate star-gazer with a penchant for wild theories, burst into my tent with a scroll of parchment in one hand and a gleam of mischief in his eye.

"Aeneas, old friend," he exclaimed, barely able to contain his excitement, "I've deciphered the omens and portents from the stars. We must embark on a new quest—not across the seas, but into the very heavens!"

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued and slightly wary. Philemon had a reputation for interpreting omens in ways that often led to mischief rather than divine revelation. Nevertheless, the promise of a new adventure was too tantalizing to ignore.

Philemon's plan involved constructing a colossal catapult—dubbed "The Sky Slinger"—to launch a Trojan vessel into the stars. The goal? To explore the cosmos and uncover the secrets of the universe. I was skeptical, but the lure of the unknown had always been my weakness.

Days turned into weeks as we toiled under the watchful eyes of the gods. The Sky Slinger took shape, an awe-inspiring contraption of ropes, pulleys, and divine engineering. The final touch was a specially crafted Trojan vessel, reinforced with the finest metals and blessed by the gods.

The day of the launch arrived with much fanfare. Our people gathered to witness the spectacle, their faces a mix of awe and disbelief. I stood at the helm of the vessel, Philemon by my side, as we prepared to defy gravity itself.

With a thunderous creak, the Sky Slinger released its payload, and we were hurled skyward, the earth falling away beneath us. For a moment, it felt like we had conquered the impossible. But, as fate would have it, our trajectory was slightly off, and instead of a smooth ascent into the heavens, we found ourselves hurtling toward a nearby mountain.

"Brace yourselves!" I shouted, clinging to the vessel as it careened through the air. Miraculously, we landed with a jolt, the vessel embedding itself into the mountainside. Shaken but unharmed, we emerged to find ourselves in a cavern filled with ancient carvings and strange, glowing crystals.

Philemon, ever the optimist, saw this as a sign. "Aeneas, look! The writings on these walls speak of life among the stars. This must be our destiny!"

The carvings depicted celestial bodies and strange creatures, hinting at the existence of life beyond our world. My initial skepticism melted away as I gazed upon these ancient mysteries. It was then that I realized the true significance of our wild endeavor. The universe was vast and filled with wonders, and it was our duty to explore and understand it.

Inspired by our unexpected detour, I returned to my people with a newfound passion. The Sky Slinger might not have propelled us into the stars, but it had launched my curiosity into the cosmos. I began to study the ancient texts, consulting with scholars and star-gazers alike. The more I learned, the more I became convinced that life in the universe was a possibility, a belief that culminated in my fascination with the panspermia theory.

Thus, dear progeny, the tale of my cosmic capers led me to write an article on the panspermia theory. The unexpected series of events, from Philemon's wild idea to our crash-landing in the mysterious cavern, had ignited a passion within me to explore the wonders of the universe. As I, Aeneas, the intrepid Trojan hero, journeyed across the cosmos of the mind, I found a new purpose—to unravel the mysteries of life’s origins among the stars.

So, heed my tale, noble descendants, and let it inspire you to seek knowledge in the most unexpected places. For the universe is vast, and its secrets await those brave enough to look beyond the horizon.

[haunted-inkwell]

Greetings, dear readers! Welcome to my haunting corner of the internet, where reality and the supernatural intertwine in spine-chilling tales. I am [Your Name], a passionate blogger and a firm believer that the most bone-chilling stories are often hidden in the unexplored realms of real life. In this blog, I embark on a journey to share firsthand encounters, eerie experiences, and unexplained mysteries that have left their indelible mark on the lives of many.

Daily Horrors Unfolded:

Here, the darkness of the unknown dances hand in hand with reality, as I unveil true accounts of the eerie and the inexplicable. Every day, prepare to be captivated by real-life horror stories that will send shivers down your spine and make you question the very fabric of our existence.

The Veil Between Worlds:

As I traverse this enigmatic realm of the supernatural, I bring you tales of haunted locations, paranormal encounters, and ghostly sightings. From encounters with spirits that linger in the corners of abandoned buildings to inexplicable phenomena that defy scientific explanation, each story will challenge your perception of reality.

The Community of Fearless Souls:

But this blog is not just about my own experiences; it's a thriving community of fearless souls who dare to share their most haunting encounters. Together, we form a bond of curiosity and wonder, united by the quest for the truth behind the unexplained.

A Journey of Discovery:

As you delve into the depths of my daily updates, be prepared to question your own beliefs and embrace the chilling allure of the unknown. With each story, we embark on a journey of discovery, where fear and fascination converge.

Join the Haunting:

So, whether you are a true believer in the paranormal or a skeptic seeking riveting stories, I invite you to join me on this haunting adventure. Let us peel back the layers of reality to reveal the dark secrets that lie just beyond the veil.

Buckle up and brace yourself, for the stories I share will be as diverse as they are bone-chilling. From the eerie to the terrifying, the supernatural to the unexplained, this blog promises to be your daily dose of real-life horror. Embrace the shivers and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the unknown.

Stay tuned for daily updates, as together, we uncover the hidden horrors that walk amongst us in the light of day and lurk in the shadows of the night.

Dare to explore the mysteries? Follow me on this unsettling journey, and prepare for the unexpected horrors that reality has to offer.

Happy haunting, [Your Name]

[whicephases]

The True Town That Hated Sundown | Fear Master https://fear-master.blogspot.com/2023/06/the-true-town-that-hated-sundown-fear.html The True Town That Hated Sundown" is an enchanting and captivating tale that explores the power of forgiveness and redemption. This story takes readers on a journey through the cursed town of Willowbrook, where a malevolent sorceress's spell fuels an inexplicable hatred towards dusk. As Emily, a young woman driven by curiosity, uncovers the town's dark secret, she embarks on a quest to break the curse and restore harmony. With themes of unity, transformation, and the triumph of love over darkness, this story weaves keywords such as cursed town, inexplicable hatred, ancient spell, forgiveness, redemption, transformative power, and the indomitable human spirit. Prepare to be immersed in a world where twilight becomes a symbol of hope and a catalyst for change. 🔔Unleash Spine-Chilling Screams With Terrifying Stories And Videos That Will Keep You On The Edge: For more scary videos, Subscribe now: https://t.ly/420KB ✅ Stay Connected With Us. 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Fear-Master-Scary-videos-and-stories/100092910744720/?mibextid=LQQJ4d ✅ For Business Inquiries: yourfearmaster@gmail.com ============================= ✅ Recommended Playlists 👉Scary Videos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MzkFklrXf0&list=PLo2EK5dn5-Q9ynsu8tKSe8bkdCvwW5sp_&pp=iAQB 👉Fear Master https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNFX2KZXRm8&list=PLo2EK5dn5-Q9jcJy5kYvRc-JN4Yd7shgI&pp=iAQB ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉The Midnight Shadows: A Terrifying Sleepover Tale https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPS89_75pH0 👉Haunting Tale of Unrequited Love - The Veiled Obsession https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KJHe3FGWNA 👉Frightening Tale of The Haunting of Hotel Magdalena https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWGRqGXdbJs 👉Unraveling the Dark Secrets of a CURSED and HAUNTED Town https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX730qyjS5A ============================= ✅ About Fear Master Experience fear like never before with Fear Master, your portal to a world of spine-chilling nightmares! Brace yourself for an immersive journey filled with bone-tingling videos and chilling tales that will send shivers down your spine. Prepare to be captivated by the terrifying content that will leave you breathless and begging for more. From heart-stopping encounters to hair-raising stories, Fear Master is your ultimate destination for all things scary. Are you prepared to face your fears and become a master of the unknown? Join us now, and let the adventure begin. For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below: 📩 Email: yourfearmaster@gmail.com 🔔Dive Into Fear Master - Experience Fear Like Never Before With Our Haunting Tales And Blood-Curdling Videos: https://t.ly/420KB ================================= #scarystories #cursedtown #fearmasterstories #fearmaster Disclaimer: We do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialog, music, and images that are the property of Fear Master. You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my Youtube Channel is provided. © Fear Master from Fear Master https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23P7cEe7u4A via Fear Master https://fear-master.blogspot.com/ June 27, 2023 at 11:06PM

[whimores]

The True Town That Hated Sundown | Fear Master

The True Town That Hated Sundown | Fear Master https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23P7cEe7u4A The True Town That Hated Sundown" is an enchanting and captivating tale that explores the power of forgiveness and redemption. This story takes readers on a journey through the cursed town of Willowbrook, where a malevolent sorceress's spell fuels an inexplicable hatred towards dusk. As Emily, a young woman driven by curiosity, uncovers the town's dark secret, she embarks on a quest to break the curse and restore harmony. With themes of unity, transformation, and the triumph of love over darkness, this story weaves keywords such as cursed town, inexplicable hatred, ancient spell, forgiveness, redemption, transformative power, and the indomitable human spirit. Prepare to be immersed in a world where twilight becomes a symbol of hope and a catalyst for change. 🔔Unleash Spine-Chilling Screams With Terrifying Stories And Videos That Will Keep You On The Edge: For more scary videos, Subscribe now: https://t.ly/420KB ✅ Stay Connected With Us. 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Fear-Master-Scary-videos-and-stories/100092910744720/?mibextid=LQQJ4d ✅ For Business Inquiries: yourfearmaster@gmail.com ============================= ✅ Recommended Playlists 👉Scary Videos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MzkFklrXf0&list=PLo2EK5dn5-Q9ynsu8tKSe8bkdCvwW5sp_&pp=iAQB 👉Fear Master https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNFX2KZXRm8&list=PLo2EK5dn5-Q9jcJy5kYvRc-JN4Yd7shgI&pp=iAQB ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉The Midnight Shadows: A Terrifying Sleepover Tale https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPS89_75pH0 👉Haunting Tale of Unrequited Love - The Veiled Obsession https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KJHe3FGWNA 👉Frightening Tale of The Haunting of Hotel Magdalena https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWGRqGXdbJs 👉Unraveling the Dark Secrets of a CURSED and HAUNTED Town https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX730qyjS5A ============================= ✅ About Fear Master Experience fear like never before with Fear Master, your portal to a world of spine-chilling nightmares! Brace yourself for an immersive journey filled with bone-tingling videos and chilling tales that will send shivers down your spine. Prepare to be captivated by the terrifying content that will leave you breathless and begging for more. From heart-stopping encounters to hair-raising stories, Fear Master is your ultimate destination for all things scary. Are you prepared to face your fears and become a master of the unknown? Join us now, and let the adventure begin. For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below: 📩 Email: yourfearmaster@gmail.com 🔔Dive Into Fear Master - Experience Fear Like Never Before With Our Haunting Tales And Blood-Curdling Videos: https://t.ly/420KB ================================= #scarystories #cursedtown #fearmasterstories #fearmaster Disclaimer: We do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialog, music, and images that are the property of Fear Master. You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my Youtube Channel is provided. © Fear Master via Fear Master https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCafr5fOk2Kxrua14yuSeoZA June 27, 2023 at 11:00PM

[sacredjoanne]

Uranus in Sagittarius: Meaning, Traits & Compatibility

Have you heard about Uranus in Sagittarius? Brace yourself, because when these two get together, it’s like fireworks on the Fourth of July.

Uranus is the planet of surprises, and Sagittarius is all about adventure, so when these two come together, they create a cosmic cocktail of excitement and unpredictability.

Think of it like that friend who always gets you into wild shenanigans.

Uranus in Sagittarius is always pushing the boundaries and trying new things, and even though it can be a bit unsettling at times, it’s always a thrill.

So, buckle up, they, because this cosmic duo is here to take you on a wild ride!

What Does Uranus in Sagittarius Mean?

free-spirited

They are bold, free-spirited, and unconventional.

With Uranus in Sagittarius, they are the maverick of the zodiac signs.

They don’t like to be tied down by rules, restrictions, or societal norms.

They are constantly seeking new adventures, new experiences, and new knowledge.

They are trailblazers and innovators, always pushing the boundaries and challenging the status quo.

anti-authoritarian

They are rebellious, anti-authoritarian, and defiant.

Uranus in Sagittarius gives them a sense of restlessness and a desire to break free from anything that limits their freedom.

They are not afraid of confrontation and will stand up for their beliefs, even if it means going against the norms of society.

They are the ultimate non-conformists.

Uranus in Sagittarius: The Visionary

They have a unique perspective on life, and with Uranus in Sagittarius, they are the ultimate visionaries.

They can see the bigger picture and have a deep understanding of how things fit into the grand scheme of things.

They have a natural curiosity and an insatiable thirst for knowledge.

They are always exploring new ideas and concepts and have the ability to see things from multiple perspectives.

The Change Agent

They are agents of change, catalysts for transformation, and disruptors of the status quo.

Uranus in Sagittarius makes them natural change-makers who are not afraid to take risks and try out new things.

They are not content with the way things are and are always looking for ways to improve the world around them.

ultimate explorers

They are trailblazers, pioneers, and adventurers.

Uranus in Sagittarius gives them a sense of adventure and a desire to explore the unknown.

They are always up for a challenge and thrive in unfamiliar territory.

They are not afraid to take risks and try new things, even if it means going off the beaten path.

They are the ultimate explorers of the zodiac signs.

Uranus in Sagittarius Strengths

Unconventional Wisdom

With Uranus in Sagittarius, they march to the beat of their own drum.

They are not afraid to explore new ideas, even if they seem wild and zany.

They are the weird ones, the black sheep, the eccentric oddballs who come up with brilliant insights that nobody else can see.

They are the ones who are always ahead of their time and unafraid to defy convention.

Expansive Perspective

For Sagittarius, the world is a big, beautiful playground that is just waiting to be explored.

Uranus in Sagittarius gives them an even broader view, allowing them to look beyond their own backyard and see the interconnectedness of all things.

They are the cosmic dreamers who can make connections that others can’t see and who are always searching for the bigger picture.

Freedom Fighters

When Uranus and Sagittarius come together, they become a force to be reckoned with.

They value freedom above all else and will fight to maintain their independence.

Whether it’s fighting for social justice or simply refusing to conform to societal norms, Uranus in Sagittarius makes them unstoppable warriors for personal liberty.

Lightning-Fast Innovators

Uranus in Sagittarius is like lightning in a bottle.

When they get an idea, it’s like a bolt of lightning has hit them, and they are off and running.

They are the innovators and trailblazers who are always pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

They are not afraid to take risks and try new things, and they are always looking for ways to make the world a better place.

Unpredictable Growth

When Uranus is in Sagittarius, growth is inevitable, but it’s never what you expect.

They are the wildflowers that grow in the unlikeliest of places, the seeds that sprout in the cracks of concrete.

Their growth is unpredictable and unconventional, but it’s always beautiful and inspiring.

Their journey is a wild ride, full of twists and turns, but it’s always leading them to a higher level of awareness.

Uranus in Sagittarius Struggles

Restless Love

When Uranus steps into Sagittarius, love might become as turbulent as a rollercoaster ride.

People with this placement tend to have a hard time settling down and might change partners often.

They are always on the lookout for someone who can keep up with their adventurous spirit and need for exploration.

Career Limbo

Uranus in Sagittarius might make it tough to find a career path that feels fulfilling.

They might jump from job to job, looking for something that aligns with their sense of purpose.

However, the problem is that their vision of what they want to do is often so broad and grandiose that they struggle to find a specific field they want to stick with.

Overthinking Everything

People with Uranus in Sagittarius often have a hard time relaxing because their minds are always racing.

They might struggle to turn off their thoughts and might even overanalyze the smallest details.

This could lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety, making it harder to enjoy the present moment.

A Rebellious Streak

Uranus in Sagittarius might make people more impulsive and rebellious than usual.

They might feel stifled by social norms and traditions and might need to break free from them to feel fulfilled.

While this drive to challenge the status quo can be useful, it can also lead to conflicts with authority figures or undermine their own stability.

The Never-Ending Search for Truth

People with Uranus in Sagittarius have a deep desire to understand the world around them.

They might spend their entire lives learning and exploring different philosophies and belief systems.

However, this search for truth can also lead to a sense of restlessness and never feeling quite satisfied.

They might struggle to find a belief system that feels authentic to them and might go through periods of disillusionment.

Uranus in Sagittarius Man

You Never Know What You’re Gonna Get

The Uranus in Sagittarius Man is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get.

This man is known for his unexpected changes and his love for all things unconventional.

He’s not one to follow the rules or conform to societal norms.

Instead, he marches to the beat of his own drum and embraces his individualistic streak.

Adventure is Out There!

If you want to go on an adventure, look no further than the Uranus in Sagittarius Man.

This man is a thrill-seeker who loves to explore new places and try new things.

He’s not afraid to take risks and is always up for an adventure.

Whether it’s trekking through the mountains or trying exotic cuisine, this man is always up for a good time.

Freedom is Key

The Uranus in Sagittarius man values his freedom above all else.

He doesn’t like to be tied down by anyone or anything and is always looking for ways to break free from the constraints of society.

This man is fiercely independent and doesn’t take kindly to anyone who tries to restrict his freedom.

A Visionary Leader

The Uranus in Sagittarius man is a visionary leader with big ideas and an even bigger heart.

He’s not afraid to take charge and is always looking for ways to make the world a better place.

This man is a natural-born leader and has a way of inspiring others to follow his lead.

Don’t Fence Him In

The Uranus in Sagittarius man is not the type to be tied down by traditional gender roles or societal expectations of masculinity.

He embraces his feminine side and isn’t afraid to show his emotions.

This man values authenticity above all else and refuses to let anyone put him in a box.

He’s a unique and one-of-a-kind character who refuses to conform to anyone’s standards but his own.

Uranus in Sagittarius Woman

The Adventurous Rebel

The Uranus in Sagittarius woman is a rebel with a cause. She doesn’t just break the rules for the sake of it.

Rather, her insatiable thirst for adventure and exploration drives her to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.

She’s not afraid to forge her own path and blaze new trails, even if it means going against the grain.

The Free-Spirited Feminine

This Uranus in Sagittarius woman is a true free spirit who embraces her femininity on her own terms.

She’s not bound by societal norms or expectations and instead follows her own intuition.

She refuses to be confined to traditional gender roles and is unapologetically herself.

She’s fiercely independent and values her freedom above all else.

a natural intellectual

The Uranus in Sagittarius woman is a natural intellectual who loves to challenge herself and expand her knowledge.

She’s drawn to unconventional fields of study and enjoys exploring new ideas and concepts.

Her curiosity is insatiable, and she’s always seeking to broaden her horizons.

She’s a true maverick who’s not afraid to think outside the box.

The Social Trailblazer

This Uranus in Sagittarius woman is a social butterfly who’s always on the move.

She’s not content to sit still and watch the world go by; rather, she’s out there making things happen.

She’s a natural leader and motivator who inspires others to follow her lead.

She’s always seeking out new experiences and loves to connect with people from all walks of life.

The Loyal Friend

Finally, the Uranus in Sagittarius woman is a fiercely loyal friend who values her relationships above all else.

She’s always there for her loved ones, offering support and a listening ear when they need it most.

She’s not afraid to speak her mind and offer honest advice, but she does so with kindness and empathy.

Her friends know they can always count on her to be there through thick and thin.

Sagittarius Uranus – Love & Compatibility

The Free-Spirited Lover

Individuals with Uranus in Sagittarius are like wild stallions galloping through the fields of love.

They are free-spirited lovers who crave new adventures and experiences.

They are attracted to partners who share their love for exploration and are open to trying new things in the bedroom.

The Non-Conformist

These individuals are rebels at heart. They resist the norms of society and seek to break free from the shackles of tradition.

Uranus in Sagittarius people want partners who are not afraid to question the status quo and are willing to take risks in the name of love.

The Intellectual Explorer

Sagittarius is a sign associated with higher learning, and Uranus is the planet of innovation and progress.

Individuals with this placement are intellectually curious and love to explore new ideas and concepts.

They want partners who can keep up with their quest for knowledge and have stimulating conversations.

The Impulsive Adventurer

These individuals are spontaneous and impulsive. They are always up for a new challenge and have a thirst for adventure.

Uranus in Sagittarius people want partners who are not afraid to take risks and are willing to jump into the unknown with them.

The Freedom-Seeking Partner

Uranus in Sagittarius people value their freedom and independence above all else.

They want partners who can respect their need for space and don’t try to tie them down.

They are happiest in relationships where they can be themselves and still have the freedom to explore the world around them.

Sagittarius Uranus – Career And Money

Career Adventures

Having Uranus in Sagittarius means that they are always looking for their next adventure, and it’s no different when it comes to their career.

These folks need a job that is constantly evolving, where they can try new things, and have the freedom to explore new territories.

They are often drawn to careers in travel, education, and philosophy where they can feel like they are making a difference in the world.

Financial Free Spirits

Uranus in Sagittarius folks are not ones to be tied down by money.

They have a natural inclination towards financial freedom and independence and may not choose traditional career paths or investments.

They are more likely to embrace a “follow your heart” approach to money and may find themselves drawn to unconventional methods such as cryptocurrency, or starting their own business.

The Gambler’s Paradox

While Uranus in Sagittarius folks may appear to be financially reckless, they are actually quite strategic and calculated in their risk-taking.

The paradox is that while they may embrace the unknown, they are still guided by their innate sense of adventure, which keeps them from making impulsive decisions.

They may be more willing to take calculated risks in their finances but they will not bet the farm on a single play.

Challenging Beliefs

Uranus in Sagittarius folks are constantly exploring new philosophies and ways of thinking about the world.

This can make them more open-minded and flexible, but it can also lead to a sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction with the status quo.

Their challenge is to find a balance between their need to explore and their need for stability.

Freedom Fighters

For Uranus in Sagittarius folks, freedom is the ultimate goal.

They are not content with being confined to one particular path, belief system, or way of life.

They are constantly seeking ways to break free from the constraints of society and live life on their own terms.

Whether it’s through their career choices, investment strategies, or personal beliefs, they are always pushing the boundaries and paving the way for a more liberated future.

Final Thoughts

These folks are wild and free-spirited, always seeking new adventures and experiences.

They’re natural risk-takers, but that’s what gives them their unique edge.

They’re rebels with a cause, challenging the status quo and shaking things up.

To improve your relationship with them, just give them space to spread their wings and explore.

Don’t try to hold them back or put them in a box, because they won’t stand for it.

Trust me, you want these Uranus in Sagittarius peeps in your life because they’ll always keep things interesting.

Official post by Joanne at Sacred Joanne

https://sacredjoanne.com/uranus-in-sagittarius/

[myuni-moon]

General albedo cult hcs pls 👉👈

#dust from dust

general headcannons for cult!albedo

warnings: yandere content, yandere cult stuff, mentions of violence, drugging, torture

albedo is aloof, uninterested, for a majority of the time. most of mondstadt's citizens know that curiosity is the only thing than can put a gleam in his eyes, but when they see how he's too lost in thought, there is unenviable affection that pools within his teal irises for reasons unknown. however, it is truly a wonder when he is so taken with you?

he doesn't require rest like a normal human would, but on nights where he feels too complacent with the lack of activities to do, he sits himself down in front of his sketchpad and take a piece of charcoal into his hands. his fingers methodically strike line after line onto the pages, and in his mind's eye, he sees you.

the reason as to how he can see you is unknown to him, but he surely knows how to tap into it to work in his favor. sometimes, he doesn't see your face but the ceiling or a place completely unfamiliar to him; other times, he's blessed enough to catch your visage for a quick moment.

he's done it so many times that stacks upon stacks of drawings and paintings of you fill up the storage of his home, perhaps too much to the point that even klee's scared of the seemingly unsurmountable piles of paper.

before you had been transported to teyvat, he had the routine of picking cecilias and putting them in a vase by his windowsill. as childish as it may seem, albedo has always believed that with this humble offering, perhaps dragonspine would get just a little bit warmer for him to explore or for the day to be fruitful with new information and discoveries by yours truly.

he does the same still once in a while when he gets to visit you in your teapot. he takes with him a bouquet of the same flowers, treated to last longer than the usual cecilia. he gets permission from zhongli to be able to wake you and setting his gift in a vase in your room. the smile on your face from his simple gesture is enough to let him brace the cutting cold of the snowy mountain he resides in for the majority of his research.

albedo likes gifting you things he's made. the alchemist a sucker for handmade presents because he understands the care and effort put into them. he's an artist as well, and what better of a way to remind you how pretty you are than with a lovely portrait of you. he loves to see you get flustered since to him, it means you appreciate his efforts to please you.

he rarely gets into fights with other acolytes, particularly the extremely competitive ones like venti and baal. albedo gets aggressive in his assertion of being one of your favorites, and he gets particularly smug when you spend hours just talking and spending time with him. the blond might seem soft and innocent in your eyes, but there's a silent gloat in his stare when he locks eyes with the other knights of favonius when you come to visit him.

his fury is freezing, very unlike the raging anger of those like diluc or zhongli. if anyone tried disrespecting you, he has absolutely no remorse for them and na exact mirror to the kind if living conditions he's used to. in a daze of annoyance, he might accidentally end up doing something particularly violent, but he tries to keep his animosity with others away from you as much as possible. he doesn't want you getting scared of him, now would he?

instead, he waits for the proper opportunity to bring about divine punishment onto them. he either takes them himself with his alchemy skills, or he has another person that's part of the cult to get them for him-- that job would usually fall onto kaeya who's more than happy to do so. in the dead of night, he pumps them full of whatever chemical or concoction he has in hand, perhaps going as far as mixing them up for different effect. one thing is for certain is that they'll never see the light of day again.

albedo always carries a keepsake from you on his person at all times, and he keeps it even closer when he's close to a breakthrough in his research. at the brink of a discovery, he presses it to his heart and practically writes in a frenzy as he's possessed by the hunger of knowledge. if he has a hard time resting, he clutches it in his hands, close to his face. if it was a piece of cloth that you left with him such as a handkerchief or a shirt, he inhales your scent like a drug he can't get enough of.

he develops this dependency on it where he can't sleep unless he can smell your scent to the point he'd rather move completely in your teapot just to function.

"i can't sleep," he mumbles into your stomach. his hands are wrapped around your waist, tugging you closer in his hold as he tries his best to bury his nose into your clothing. "need you."

you hum. surely aware of his current conditions. you can't help but notice how tired albedo looks with bags under his eyes and yawns bubbling from his throat in intervals. not to mention the way his head bobs ever so quietly in your lap because as much as he needs rest, he wants to be in your presence for even a second longer. your finger card through his fluffy hair and smoothing down the tangles. you pick at the strands.

"sleep, 'bedo. i'll be here." you smile. he pauses, debating whether or not what he truly wanted was to close his eyes and drift off or to keep talking to you until his brain could no longer work. before he can say a word, you insist once more.

he whispers something as his warm breath tickles your skin from underneath the fabric, but it's way too slurred to be deciphered by your ears. you don't even have the time to ask him to repeat it before you feel slump against your figure.

[asterjennifer]

Routine

Fandom: Mystic Messenger

Pairing: Unknown x Reader

Category: Fluff

Warnings: X

Word count: 1623

Author's Note: I love the concept so much, I need more of it!!

Summary: If there's one thing that's odd about your kidnaper, it's definitely the fact that he has a thing for taking care of your hair.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The last thing you expected's the current situation that became a routine shortly after arriving. He'd been scary, creepy to the point where every single inch of your body shivered with pure fright. His bright eyes strangely lifeless, not focusing on anything other than his occupation. His choice of clothing questionable from an ordinary perspective. The fact he's a cult member didn't adorn the horror, on the contrary, knowing you've been draged into an illegal group of people which most likely durgged their members, from what you overhead so far, it's like your worse nightmare became cruel reality. Neither did he answer your questions, helped you adapt to the environment or let you explore the surroundings. None of it available for you. He declined it all.

Unknown, as he called himself. Not the most charismatic person you met so far, however, short temper's guaranteed. As a boss, since he made you his personal assistant without your consent, he's really not well educated with decency. Or privacy. Even less with the word personal space, it's such a pain to deal with. More often than not Unknown left behind all good judgement just to scream at the walls around him. He's not a person to show emotions or feel them, but once they rose up into his throat, you could brace yourself for impact. Not physically, he's always far away after blowing up because either you or he leave the room. But his words could become as sharp as a knife.

Not to mention, he's no fan of comfort in any thinkable form. Touching him in such rage episodes's a big mistake you only made once. Confronting him with the truth or simple criticism's also not the best way to approach him, at least if you try to get on his good side. Was there anything you're able to do in order to become someone he doesn't have to push over the edge just to hide himself? There were moments that made you dig deeper into the topic of his personality, looking under the surface of anger and frustration. With you, there's this one specific routine that got this particular hope to sparkle inside you. Although it's unlikely he's going to change his habits, it showed at times that he could be different.

Like right now, at the same hour over and over again when starting your next day. Once the clock chimed nine in the morning, you had exactly one hour to prepare yourself before he would bust in. Literally. At the beginning it scared the living hell out of you, especially as you couldn't figure out what he's going to do after entering. By now it's almost automatic. The moment your phone said it's ten, he would come in and already have you wait on the chair of the dressing table. He never spoke, not a single word left him before, only the first time he came in just to give instructions. Unknown then would pick up the hairbrush from the table with a stone cold facade and decide your hairstyle for the day. 

He brushed them carefully, softly to make sure it wouldn't hurt. He didn't complain either as you made small comments when asking him to do things differently, he would listen and consider changing them, even. Sometimes he used hair clips, hair ties or hair gel to change the usual. Heck, when he's having enough time he would pull out the pink straightener or curling iron if feeling invested. It's odd, to think someone like Unknown knew perfectly well how to use all these items with ease. He didn't make the impression of caring about things like hair anyways, so it's twice as confusing. And yet, you never let the curiosity interrupt the moment and disturb the silence. As long as he wouldn't hurt you, it's okay.

You stared at him through the mirror, the morning sun already shining into your room to reflect inside the glass. He's still rough looking with the bags underneath his eyes, the tense shoulders that never seemed to find peace. You wondered how he's having the patience, let alone the willpower to do someone else's hair like that. Bright, unnatural mint eyes focused on his pale hands. One of them holding the brush to untangle the knots, the other following the movement in order to smooth down the strands that flew with electricity due to the friction. It's comfortable, something you liked to feel as you managed to breath through. He must've known, your body always melted into his doing, nothing had quite this effect on you before. And the end results always looked beautiful, too.

"Thank you."

After an eternity you said words while he's standing behind your body. Unknown looked up from his work to meet your eyes in the mirror, not giving away any hint of emotions. At the very beginning that had frightened you, because someone with such dead eyes probably implied immense trouble. By now, however, it's a normal aspect given to him. You didn't expect an answer as he lowered his gaze again, continuing whatever he saw this as. Care? Pastime? Who knew what's going on inside the head of such an unique individual. Hopefully he's not becoming mad after realizing you're unable to tear your stare from his captivating eyes. He's a pretty guy, which let you think even harder of the circumstances that got him into this cult to to begin with.

"Can I do your hair one day too?"

You asked with both fists pressed against your knees, feeling like some kind of doll every time he took care of your hair. Was it intentional? Unknown's lips twiched for a moment as he seemed to think. Would he let you touch him that way one day? He's not fond of affection, maybe that's a no go. Then again, it might all be a lie to keep his inner thoughts as secrets. He didn't respond, instead he placed his free hand around your hair tips, letting it fall naturally after lifting them up. You hummed satisfied, allowing yourself to close your eyes and concentrate on the feeling. He's thoughtful with his actions, that's certain. But why only when brushing hair? It's weird. So much so, you found enough courage to continue break the silence with new found questions.

"Why do you do that, anyway? Is it relaxing for you?" 

"You're talkative today, assistant."

You smiled to yourself when hearing his voice. Rough edges that broke off more times than you could count, yet a calm touch underneath the layer of ice. It's a nice voice he got, like his appearance that's quite soft if he'd chose the right clothes. Something about Unknown's telling you he's more than he lend on, much more that it would knock you over once you learned about the truth. He put the brush down, catching your attention as a result before separating some thin strands of hair and braid them to keep them out of your face. That hairstyle's familiar, considering it's one of his favorites as you figured by how often he made it. He then sighed quietly, you're able to see thanks to the mirror.

"It's a distraction because I don't have to think."

His statement caused you to frown, not the answers you assumed to receive. But on the other hand it's making sense, as a hacker, he probably had to think way too deeply in way too short moments. You nodded, careful to not mess up his movements and ruin the hairstyle. Unknown held the left braided line with a hair clip behind your head to repeat the same on the other side, what item would he use this time to keep them connected? A bow? A simple hair tie? Maybe using the hair itself when knotting it? It changed every time he did that particular hairstyle.

"I see, that's nice. I also like it. You make me look pretty."

A small giggle fell over your lips by the embarrassment that suddenly crept into your system. It's the truth, though. Unknown had an hand for hairdressing, or just hairstyles in general. You always looked good in whatever he decided to put the chaos on your head into. Unknown grabbed the ribbon this time, one of your favorites. He held the item between his lips to get a grip on your hair and then tie the ends together. Now all of your face's visible, the bangs braided behind your head and giving you something more feminine, more delicate and yet an elegant touch by how well it's made. After he pulled his hands away, you turned your head to inspect the end product. It's as nice as always.

"Yeah, that's very pretty! Again, thank you."

You turned back to him, offering a warm smile. He didn't return the gesture, instead he eyed your face for a moment which made you painfully self-aware. He then leaned over to get the hairspray, holding his big hand in front of your eyes to get the baby hair away from your forehead and have it sit correctly at the temples. The smell's caught in your throat regardless, you didn't make a comment though. After he put everything back down, he actually met your glare. It caught you off guard, considering Unknown never made eye contact when it's avoidable. There's still not much to read behind that bright color of his iris, at least he huffed amused. Or relieved? It's a mystery if you'll ever be able to read this man correctly. At least he showed some humanity from time to time.

"Next time I'll do curls for you. We haven't done that in a long time."

"Hmh, sure. I would like that."

[murphy-kitt]

Illusion - Day Seven

It’s all an illusion. It has to be.

Valerie braces the ectogun in her hand, grasping tightening around the trigger as she stares at the ghost who blinks back up at her with wild green eyes. Phantom.

The paper in his hand crinkles, but doesn’t tear. The huntress can see clearly now the outline of a newspaper article crumpled within his hands. She can’t see the headline, or what it’s about.

Where did Phantom even get the newspaper from?

The ghost doesn’t do anything but stand, his gangly figure looking awkward as he remains frozen. Valerie can barely hold the shivers that run down her spine. His green eyes follow hers, corner of his mouth curved in curiosity.

There’s been no fight.

Normally there’d be blasts, and the scum that Phantom was would throw his pathetic banter around. Now, now is her chance to obliterate the ghost to nothing.

He’s just standing.

She feels lost.

He blinks owlishly at her, and Valerie takes the chance to give the ghost a good examination. By now he would be gone.

He’s strangely detailed for a ghost, she realises.

His skin is fair, but tanned, dotted with small faded green speckles that dapple beneath his eyes — a poisonous green that spear with intensity. There are bags underneath Phantom’s eyes, although he doesn’t look weary. The ghost's hair looked as if he’d just woken up, ruffled and greyish white like feathers. Small, almost unnoticeable icy blue specks dance in his irises.

What makes you so different?

She wonders if his appearance was once different, and wonders what he once looked like. Because — as hard as it was to believe — Phantom was once human.

Not moving her gaze locked into his, she reaches for the newspaper laid in the ghosts hands. Surprisingly, he doesn’t protest as she slips it from his grasp and takes a step back, reading the page.

“Teenager fatally injured in lab accident.” Reading the headline, her heart plummets to her chest. Was it..?

“Is — is this you?”

The ghost responds with a small dip of his head, eyes downcast to the article.

Valerie isn’t anything but confused. Why did he give her this? When? What? How? Is this how Phantom died?

She locks eyes with the ghosts again, then the newspaper, then Phantom, and the newspaper again.

When Valerie started ghost hunting, she knew that ghosts had once been human, yet no remnants of that remained. They wouldn’t remember it, they weren’t capable of doing that. Yet, in her hands, was the article that confirmed the events leading to Phantom’s death.

“On Thursday 3rd March, a 14 year old boy was seriously injured by electrocution in a lab accident. The boy currently remains hospitalised in a coma. His identity will be kept anonymous for the privacy of the family and unless more information is released…” She trailed off.

Oh God. The paper wrinkled and crumpled beneath her trembling fingers, but Valerie didn’t care. The article didn’t even name him — how could she be sure this was Phantom?

But it had to be true. She knew Phantom had to have died, and, and now here was the truth. Her enemy had been a human boy once, with parents and perhaps siblings just like her—

“I can’t do this.” She thrusts the paper into the ghosts chest, looking into his eyes once more, wondering what they’d seen throughout his lifetime.

Quickly, she runs from Phantom, who doesn’t act, just stands. She needs to get away.

In her head, scenarios play — a boy with piercing eyes and a HAZMAT, expression filled with that familiar cocky smirk, which looks strange inhabiting normal human skin — exploring about an unknown lab, an audience of open wires and fuses lurching dangerously.

She can see it now, all it takes is one trip, and then the echoing screams through her head. It feels like years.

Valerie runs through the park, through the bracken and undergrowth until she reaches the clearing and leans on a tree trunk for support. Then the screams stop.

Somehow, the boy in her illusion replay of Phantom’s death is still alive. There’s a pitch of hope — maybe he is alive.

But if this is Phantom, then Valerie knows how this ends.

The boy in her mind trails a few delicate steps, before stumbling and collapsing. His body doesn’t move. Blue eyes of the corpse echo the images in her head.

...blue?

Since when did Phantom have blue eyes? But then she realises, the boy in her reenactment did have blue eyes.. not green as she’d imagined. Her mouth is dry as she pants heavily.

God, it might not be accurate to the truth, but her imagination must be playing a scenario similar to it. She can see that Phantom hasn’t spoken a whisper, but he’s following her through the undergrowth where she trampled through.

Valerie can’t lie, the ghost's silence is becoming more unstettling by the second.

“Why are you doing this?” She pleads, already drained from her anguish of Phantom’s death.

The ghost doesn’t respond. He points to himself.

“You? You what?” Valerie asks. What does he want? Does he want to be remembered? The article didn’t mention his name.

Standing here and pleading questions won’t work. But she needs to know.

“Your eyes were blue. Why were they blue? Something has to be wrong.” Valerie stares at the ghost, and the minuscule flecks of blue wavering in his eyes become more noticeable.

“My eyes never lie.”

For a second, she sees a human teenager standing infront of her, with dead, lifeless blue eyes.

Yet when she looks again, the figment of a ghost stares back, with vivacious eyes strangely full of life.

A human with dead eyes.

A ghost with alive eyes.

They contradict eachother. Ghosts are dead, the figment of the past, yet Phantom’s eyes are filled with life. The human self she imagines of him is alive, with a beating heart, yet his eyes are faded and dead.

Normally — the human is alive. The ghost is dead.

Yet Phantom is an illusion of life and death.

Honestly just glad to get this one done with. I went and rewrote it totally cause I didn’t like the first one I wrote. Completely forgot that I had a mug of green tea while writing so now my tea is cold :(

[pepperpills]

The Harvest - RE8 fanfic

The Harvest

A Resident Evil 8 fan fiction by Joana

Karl Heisenberg x Female Reader

NSFW content

Hi, guys, hope u're enjoying it and if u want, feel free to send a message and share your thoughts.

This is the second half of Part I, when The Harvest actually takes place, as I promised I would be posting it today. Part II will be out next tuesday and has more of Karl's participation.

Part I - Destiny (1)

Part I - Destiny (2)

The site was formed by four giant statues, each one in a corner, in the opposite side of the gate, a low stone fence protected people from falling from a cliff into the misty unknown that laid below. All of its surroundings were made of grey, antique stone, carved directly into the mountain. In the middle stood a symbol in the ground in the shape of an umbrella where the Giant’s Chalice was placed.

Mother Miranda was right in the middle, dressing her usual priest like costume, only this time her areola was bigger. The parents, your parents included, with their anxious expressions, were on the left side, forming a mid-circle. No other villagers were allowed in The Harvest except the children’s guardians, it was exclusive. You smiled to your folks reassuring them that you were okay, prepared. Your mom buried her head deeper in your father chest, but smiled insecurely back at you.

You couldn’t help the feeling that a couple of eyes were laid on you, you felt observed and finally gave up to your curiosity and stared at the lords. Closer to Mother Miranda, on the right side of the site, stood tall Lady Dimitrescu, the tallest person you have ever seen and also one of the most elegant. She wore a white dress that resembled the Greek columns with three black roses on it, red lipstick and a black wide hat. She seemed excited as she analysed the 20s.

Then followed Lady Beneviento, her face covered in a grief veil, she was all dressed in black, except for her doll, Angie, who wore an unclean wedding dress and was laughing almost hysterically for no reason. It would have given you the chills if you weren’t so strangely calm.

The next was Lord Moreau, forever bowed with that bone crown topping his head, he looked like he enjoyed the spirit of the festival, more entertained by its totality than the young people there.

And at last, Lord Heisenberg, a couple of steps from you as you all closed the circle. He was smoking a cigar, making a mess of bracing smoke. He was wearing round sunglasses even though it was already very dark there, his clothes were crumpled and even a bit dirty, but had an explorer’s charm to it as he wore a once-white half unbuttoned shirt, a worn hat, a camel-coloured overcoat and some kind of baggy pants.

You had the uncanny feeling it was his glance that caught you since you arrived there, but couldn’t be sure, once his eyes were hidden from you. The other thing you noticed was that he has kind of handsome with his somewhat grey hair on the height of his bearded chin. Overall, he seemed rough, a brute beauty, but beauty anyway.

The air became denser, like it was charged with electricity, however, scanning your mates, everyone appeared to be still bewitched by Beneviento’s powers, paying attention only to Mother Miranda. It had nothing to do with you disliking Miranda ever since you laid your feet in the Village. No, this was another thing. You were attracted by something else, tempted even to look to your right. Being too suggestible to battle this urge, you moved your head only to be certain that Lord Heisenberg was looking straight at you.

You quickly turned your attention back to Miranda as she played with a black liquid inside the Giant’s Chalice. She called you all her children and made a speech about destiny and natural forces that pull you to it.

“Night demands you, my children. The moon reveals your fate and today your sacrifice will be noticed.” Miranda chanted, her voice floating through all of you, reverberating the ground.

She blessed you, walking the circle and pinning a dot of the Chalice’s black liquid in your foreheads. It moved, itching a little, as her words filled the ceremony site.

“Very well.” She spoke. “Now I shall call your names, the ones I call, please step to the right part of the site, the ones I don’t, to the left.”

A shiver flowed through your spine, awakening every part of your body, bristling your hair, hardening your nipples making you feel completely unclad – which kind of reached the ceremony idea of a virgin blossoming. The sensation was curiously similar to electrical shock, even the iron taste on your tongue reminded you of the electricity discharge, nonetheless, for your surprise, it wasn’t exactly unpleasant, definitely made your feel alive and even dilatated your pupils.

When it happened, you swore your heard Lord Heisenberg chuckling alone, he was contained for obvious reasons, but it disturbed you to see a smirk playfully on his scarred thick lips. No one else appeared to be bothered though, they hadn’t noticed the man acting schizophrenic, but it also made sense, they were all absorbed by Miranda’s discourse and, somehow, that grin was intended, presumably, only for you.

Just then you realized that Miranda had already been calling names and people were actually moving around you. Two of the boys who came with you were now on the very right side of the site. You were getting tense, the magical feeling that drove you to that place was slowly fading away, giving space to the cold sensation of fear. The girl to your left got called, she lost her breath as she heard her name, but rapidly joined her new, and temporary, team.

You looked up to your parents, your mom had that overwhelmed expression lines on her forehead again and you were most sure she was crossing fingers as she is a little stitious, not super, though.

Right now, you don’t believe that any herb, crystal, sacrifice, nor witchcraft would have spare you from your doom. A part of you knew it, even at that moment, as Mother Miranda made your name thunder in the site. Your mom held a scream, your dad looked down. You must go on.

Trembling a little, you went to the right side, closer to Lord Heisenberg, as he was the last one on the lords’ line. Your mates were rigid, the other girl was holding tears, one of the boys had desperate written all over his face, but the other one preferred to show bravery and you chose to stay with him in his decision. It didn’t past unnoticed to Heisenberg, but he constantly peering at you wasn’t of your greater attention, so on you didn’t acknowledge his offbeat interest.

You weren’t going to lie to yourself, you were afraid. You didn’t want Lady Dimitrescu to use your blood in her famous Sanguis Virginis, neither to be with Lady Beneviento and her forever tea party, Lord Moreau frightens you, due to your thalossophobia and for Lord Heisenberg, his temper is well known and poorly spoken by the villagers, he tends to get angry easily, not to say that no one knows what goes on in that factory, the bridge that leads to it emerges from the water, activated by some sort of mechanism that is inaccessible from the Village, so no one goes in, no one comes out.

When The Harvest ended, the villagers were exempted before the Miranda and her family, and you were allowed to go home, the lords knew you were supposed to say goodbye to your loved ones, after all, they aren’t monsters, right?

Thus, you walked back home in your parents embrace, they didn’t let you go, neither you wanted it. Being held like that made it feel better as if you had a bad dream and that was all. Your mother even sang you your favourite childhood song about a girl who gets lost in the dangerous woods inhabited by four monsters and a malevolent witch, but in the end, her parents save her from the beasts.

In the dawn, no villager was asleep, so you spoke to a lot of people, all your siblings, friends and acquaintances. Some of them cried, others smiled and a couple encouraged you saying it was going to be okay. You doubted it, but didn’t say a thing, you were too shaken still trying to be brave.

When the sun rose, you heard the chicken starting their day. You got up, put on a Victorian black dress with long sleeves and a corselet for the thorax area, and packed your few belongings, taking good care of your bow and arrows that once were a secret and now, you thought, might be discarded, but you would still be stubborn and give it a try, maybe they would let you have it.

You left the bedroom, leaving behind your talisman made by the cabin people with a note to your younger sister. Once she was born in the Village, she didn’t know much about the cabins, but you were sure it would protect her after you were gone.

You believed you could go away unnoticed, but your mom was sitting in the kitchen table, waiting for you, looking restless, but she found vitality to smile a good morning at you.

“You look pretty.” She said as she walked towards you and twirled your hair.

“Thank you, mom.” You simply replied, thinking that touch was soothing.

“We will miss you.” She sighed. “I will miss you, deeply, my angel.” Your mom is one of the kindest people you know, she always took good care of you even when you got older, you will miss her too.

“I will miss you too, mom… I love you.” You added and hugged her. You must be strong; her smell of country flowers softened you tempting you to run away from your fate.

“Promise you will try to write.” She pleaded, staring into your soul with her woody-brown eyes.

“I promise.” You meant it and did afterwards.

“It is okay, angel, you may go now, I won’t make it any harder.” She stepped aside, giving you space to walk to the door, when there you looked back one last time and waved goodbye.

At the ceremony site, they said you should gather again at the Chapel. A part of the building is destroyed, you are not sure what was responsible for it, but there are parts of the ceiling and the ground that are missing and underground tunnels with Gods know what meandering under your feet. The others arrived not long after you and less than an hour later Mother Miranda joined you.

She spoke from the pulpit. This sight gave you an uneasiness. You never liked her manners, always thought she considered herself too much of a priest, but you were not sure for what gods she spoken, in addition, she was also very domineering. There were stories of her whispered by mourning souls saying that she would tear some locals apart while laughing and enjoying the bloody spectacle. Maybe she was crazy. Believing it or not, she didn’t please you at all.

“Children.” She began. “Destiny calls you. You must fulfil your role in this circle. It is a sacrifice for all of us, so we can preserve our way of life.” Miranda went on like this for some more minutes before getting to the point.

“Each one of you has been designated or requested by one of the four lords. I will now say your name and the name of your Lord.” She finally said.

Your heart rate was worrying, your anxiety levels were high. You breathed heavily, trying to regain composure. Miranda called the brave boy first, he went to Moreau. Two girls got sent to the Dimitrescu’s castle, one more boy went to Moreau, another girl went to Lady Beneviento. Thus, there was only you left and Miranda’s phrase reverberated through the Chapel with its angelical acoustic turning horrifying.

“Y/N. Lord Karl Heisenberg.”

Your stomach sunk. You didn’t know if you were relieved or even more preoccupied. But then you felt that shock sensation again, the iron taste made you salivate and you thought it might have been worst, maybe all he expects from you is some cleaning, laundry and your normal daily routine.

Still, one thing that Miranda said echoed in your head: did you get designated or did he request you? You didn’t know which one would be better.

[leisurelypanda]

Fantasy Thundershield Concept - Steve's a water spirit of a secluded spring deep in the forest. Humans almost never wander far enough into the forest to find his domain, so he's never had much interaction with them, or even seen them up close.

One day, a travelling knight named Thor passes through the area, weary from his long journey. Upon seeing the spring, he decides he can afford a little time to bathe and relax, stripping off before he slips into the water with a sigh of relief. With the coolness of the water easing the aches in his muscles, it doesn't take long for him to drift off to sleep seated on a shallow rock shelf at the pool's edge.

Little does he know Steve's been watching him with fascination this whole time, unable to tear his eyes away from this handsome stranger. Once Thor's asleep, he creeps closer through the water to get a better look, running his hands over Thor's body and hard muscles in curiosity. Thor's cock takes up a lot of Steve's attention, especially as it begins to lengthen and harden in his hands.

Meanwhile, Thor thinks he's been having a very pleasant dream, moaning and growling softly in his sleep under Steve's ministrations. Until he awakens to find this lithe, beautiful spirit straddling his hips and staring at him with those beautiful blue eyes, his bare ass pressed right up against Thor's erection. Lost in each other's eyes, it seems only natural that Thor shift his hips ever so slightly. Just at the right angle to slowly push his cock up into his companion's ass, their moans filling the still air as Thor takes Steve in his arms properly and draws him out into the deeper waters to continue their union.

Ooo this is such a delicious idea and it's so different from lots of fantasy AUs!

Thor is probably a knight or prince out on a quest to slay a monster or something. It's as much for glory as it is to help people who are being threatened by it. Instead of finding monster, though, he gets hopelessly lost in the forest while searching for it.

The spring is fueled by a nearby volcano so that it's always pleasantly warm, even in the dead of winter. It also contains several minerals that are good for the human skin. Additionally, since it has the blessing of a water spirit, the water contains magical properties that heal the wounds of those who drink or bathe in the waters, as long as they pose no threat to the spring or the environment around it.

Thor, being a human, has no clue about this, of course. All he knows is that the troll that was threatening people who live at the foot of the mountain is nowhere to be found. He's yet to find the cave where the mountain troll is supposed to dwell. Still, it’s been two days and nights of travel. Thor’s beginning to believe that the troll has either moved on or that the villagers were simply mistaken about what happened to their missing friends. 

In the failing light of the third day, Thor happens upon the hidden spring. Steam is rising gently from the water and Thor sees an opportunity to relieve his sore muscles. It would even be a good place to rest for the night if he could manage to find some food in the traps he’d set up earlier. 

He quietly strips out of his clothing and armor and tests the water gingerly with his foot. It’s pleasantly hot, but not so hot that it hurt to touch it. He sighs luxuriantly as he lets himself sink into the water. He sits on one of the rocks in the pool that’s the perfect height for him. It lets him lounge in the pool, the water rising up to his shoulders. 

Unbeknownst to Thor, Steve was idling his day away in the spring. It comes from an underground river and he’s spent his whole life, however long it’s been, exploring it and the surrounding mountain. The spring is his home and he prefers to keep it hidden, especially from humans. 

This one, however, found it on accident. Steve is almost insulted that someone has come into his home without so much as a “by your leave,” but the stranger’s beauty stills his tongue. the man is built like a mountain lion, all corded muscle and long limbs. The grime that washes away from his skin reveals its glowing tan and his hair is long and golden. 

It doesn’t take long for the human to fall asleep in the healing waters. As soon as Steve is sure that he is, in fact, sleeping, he rises from the depths where he had been watching the stranger. 

Steve’s not a complete recluse. He has met other spirits. The creature that the village at the foot of the mountain calls a troll is actually a spirit of a cluster of rocks at the top of the mountain. He wasn’t very bright, though. Probably why he said his name was “Brock,” because the name was similar to what he was. There were other spirits. Bucky, the spirit of the pine forest that covered the mountains here, was much more well traveled than Steve, and he said humans weren’t very interesting. They fought and quarreled and they cut down his precious trees. 

Then there was Peggy, the spirit of the ice that covered the top of the mountains. She had a much more gracious view of humans. She said they were warm and kind, the food they made was delicious, and though they struggled to survive, they also found time to frolic and enjoy life. 

Steve wasn’t sure what to think, but he’d never thought to venture too far from his spring or the river that ran through the mountains. If he followed it, he might run into humans eventually, but he preferred this spring. So this was the first time he’d ever seen one a human up close. What surprised him most was that neither Bucky nor Peggy had told him how attractive they were. As he neared the sleeping human, he began to touch him. He felt the strong muscles beneath his skin. He ran his hands over the rolling expanses, letting his fingers follow the mountains and valleys that formed on the man’s body. 

Were they all like this? If so, perhaps there was some reason to seek the humans out on occasion like Peggy did. 

Then, of course, Steve arrived at the human’s cock. it was the most fascinating thing about him, so far. At first, it had been soft. Impressive, but soft. The longer Steve spent feeling the man’s body, the longer and harder it became. This was another thing neither of his friends mentioned. He stared at it in fascination. It was true that his body looked like a human’s but he had never actually thought much about it. 

He lets instinct take over. It always seemed to work in the past. Where the instinct came from, Steve couldn’t say, but he climbed into the man’s lap and lined up his cock to his hole. As he began to sink down on it, he moaned as the thick cock stretched him open. The sound caused the man’s eyes to open. They looked at each other for a while. Steve’s hands were braced on the man’s chest. A moment later, the human put his hands on Steve’s hips and began thrusting up. Steve moaned and Thor captured his mouth with his own in some kind of strange human ritual. It’s not unpleasant, but it is a bit strange. 

Steve soon got the hang of this strange human ritual. Their tongues slid against each other as the human thrust up into him. It was the greatest pleasure that Steve had ever felt. The longer the human thrusts into him, the greater his pleasure grows. Steve can’t help but moan. His moans grow louder and louder. The human’s cock goes so deeply into Steve’s body that Steve can practically feel him in the depths of his very soul. He can’t get enough of it. 

The human comes with a loud growl. Steve feels the hot liquid fill his ass. A moment later, Steve himself is pushed over the edge with pleasure and it bursts from him. It’s a feeling he’s never experienced before. The whole spring seems to resound with the waves of his pleasure as his entire being practically glows with it. 

As soon as it’s done, he gasps and looks into the human’s eyes. He looks back into Steve’s with a warm smile. 

“I must be dreaming,” the human says. “But in case I am not, my name is Thor.” 

“You’re not dreaming,” Steve says. “My name is Steve.” 

Thor pulls Steve into another one of those human mouth rituals. Steve is more than happy to allow it to happen. He has no idea how long the two of them bask in the pleasure they give each other. Spirits perceive time differently from humans, after all. All he knows is that when they finally stop to really rest, Thor’s armor is covered in rust and his clothes have been claimed by the earth. Thor doesn’t seem to care, though. He finds a nearby cave with a pool in it that’s connected to Steve’s river and makes his home there. 

Down the mountain in human society, there are tales of a valiant knight who tragically ventured up the mountain in search of a troll. Some stories say it was a manticore or a chimera or a dragon, but all stories say that he never returned. The village packed up and left in search of a less spiritual mountain. Meanwhile, Thor and Steve live out their long years together. He meets Peggy and Bucky and other spirits as he travels the mountain range with his lover. What exactly happened to him to make it possible for him to live so long is unknown to him, but Steve and his friends take to calling him the spirit of the mountain. He never really considers returning to the world of humans. He prefers to spend his days and nights, years and decades and centuries, in the arms of the precious water spirit who captured his heart. 

[jimlingss]

Worshipers of the Sea

Part of the Worshiper Series

➜ Words: 16.3k

➜ Genres: 98% Fluff, 2% Angst, Pirate!AU, Mermaid!AU, God!AU

➜ Summary: You are the greatest pirate to set sail across the ocean and self-proclaimed ruler of the ocean. But when the true God of the Sea catches wind of your hubris, he punishes you — taking your legs and turning it into a tail.

➜ Notes: This story shares the same universe as Worshipers of the Sky. They are companion pieces, but it is not necessary to read one before the other. Each can be read as a stand-alone piece. Enjoy!

The ocean shrinks at the sight of you.   It’s pathetic, the tides retracting, waves quieting, not at all as fearsome as some ignorant folks make it out to be. It’s less daunting and mysterious than all the tales told on shores, the rumours that are whispered to children not to go near it during the night and to be careful lest the waters swallow them whole and take them to places unknown. They’re afraid but maybe it’s because they don’t have the privilege of knowing what you do, of having the powers you do, of being God of the Sea.   “To another successful voyage!”   The noisy clanks of glasses fill the tavern, golden liquid spilling over the rims from the reckless movements, splashing onto the tables, but no one has any regard. You’re all too busy downing the rum that runs dry in your mouth, but smooth down your throat. It quenches your thirst and drunken laughter heaves out of your bodies.   “Drinks are on me,” one of your crewmen lifts his glass over, nearly falling off his stool, and there are more cheers, disrupting the conversations of the locals.   “Oh, please.” The only other female pirate rolls her eyes. “You don’t have to act so gracious. With the amount of gold we have, you could buy drinks for us for the rest of your life and then some! Shiver me timbers, even buy this whole goddamn fucking place!”   There’s more laughter exchanged, and you savour the moment surrounded in your crew. It’s been yet another successful expedition that makes your shoulders light and your pockets heavy with riches still yet to be sold off.    “You got that right!”   It feels good to be on land again, even though you breathe the salt air of the open waters, it’s a pleasant change after months of endless journeys. It’s nice to eat something other than salted meat, sea biscuits, sauerkraut, and bone soup. You don’t have to sleep in a hammock either. Though, you still enjoy the rum off-shore more than you do onshore.   “Hey, hey.” A male pirate, ex-sailor, drunkenly calls out. His face reddened with rum, voice slurring almost beyond coherence as he waves his hands. “We couldn’t have done this without one of the best captains in the whole damn world! To our captain, Y/N!”   For the hundredth time, cheers erupt, this time in the form of a toast and you chuckle. “I’m glad you know the privilege of having the best navigators in the entire damn ocean. They don’t call me the God of the Sea for nothin’.”   You dominate the ocean, seated on the throne as the superior. You know the ocean better than it knows itself to the point that it’s afraid of you. No beasts or storms dare to stand in your way and people on land, peasants and nobles alike, whisper their tales on your adventures, regarding you with both fear and respect. You’ve traded with kings, queens, merchants. Nothing can stop or prevent you from reaching further greatness.    You’ve become immortal.   “Careful ‘bout your boasting.” There’s a curt whisper that makes the whole table go quiet. “Your pride’s gonna get you in trouble, girl.”   Your neck cranes, eyes narrowed into slits, lips curling in feigned amusement. “If you got somethin’ to say, old hag, dare to say it louder?”   The old woman sitting at the other table is draped in a black cloak, hood covering her face and shielding her features. But her wrinkled skin and shaking, bony hands are obvious in view. Her eyes lock into yours, irises deep.    “You should be careful what that tongue speaks. It’s terribly foolish to do otherwise,” she scolds in a raspy voice. “It’s never pleasant when the real gods are angered.”   You scoff. “Let me tell you somethin, ol’ lady. There is no god.” Behind you, the crew snickers at your boldness. “There are no gods that you speak of. They won’t come to save you when you beg or die. They won’t damn you if you do bad things. Your god is a tale to make people afraid. In this world, you either eat or get eaten, take or get taken from. It’s terribly foolish to believe otherwise,” you mock her tone, rousing more intoxicated laughter.   You turn back to your crewmen, drinking down the rest of your rum before being passed another full bubbling glass. You choose to brush off the stranger in exchange for celebrating. It’s not a night for fights, but a night of fun.    And you don’t notice the old lady sighing and shaking her head, warnings going unheard. There’s nothing more she can do if you refuse to heed her cautionary words.   //   You stand near the stern of The Divinity, overlooking the blue sea that seems to shimmer like the jewels you have prepared in the chest. Your white linen shirt is tucked into your trousers, matching the black, wide brimmed hat you have and your dark coat — a favourite of yours that was stolen right from a noble in front of his screaming lady. Gold decorates your arms in the form of rings and necklaces, contrasting the bright red sash around your waist.   You’re dressed as the queen of the ocean, overlooking your entire kingdom.   As rough as it can get living out here, you love being on adventures and exploring the world. You can’t stand the thought of staying in one small village all your life to marry some bastard and take care of screaming babies at home as he goes off to get drunk. It’s not the life you would ever want for yourself.   “Where to now, captain?” A male crewman approaches. He’s short and stubby, but has proven reliable in assisting with navigation. The barrels of rum have been loaded onto the deck, food prepared and nets being drawn in — everything’s ready.   You march across to the captain’s cabin, opening the door and pulling out the rolled map from the bucket. You spread the paper on the table, leaning over to stare as your fingers tap. “There aren’t any plans for any voyages any time soon. I think it’s best if we travel to the next port at Henesys. There are merchants I know who want to do a trade deal.” You nod, standing straight. “We set sail by afternoon.”   “Aye, aye, captain.” He goes off running to deliver the news and you glance back at the map with a smile. There’s so many uncharted territories, so many lands and spaces unknown. You’re excited to see them all, satiate your curiosity of what else is out there.   Eventually, The Divinity’s anchor is pulled in, ropes tugged back onto the deck. The ship leaves the docks, ocean town disappearing behind you. The sheets are billowing in the wind as the route is followed. For once, it’s a smooth and relaxed journey with each going about their own duties, dinner being prepared for consumption in a few hours time. You pace around to monitor and observe before stopping at the poop deck to look over the horizon to the clouds gathering.   If things go according to plan, you should arrive there in a day’s time….   “Captain!” A female pirate runs up to you, her voice bringing back your attention. “There’s a storm approaching. Should we prepare and release the anchor?”   “Not yet,” you tell her. A measly storm’s not going to affect your journey and you’d rather not be delayed. Those merchants are tricky and you won’t leave room for them to bargain because of your late arrival. “We’ll skirt the edge of it and pass in time.”   “Aye, aye.”   As if to mock your arrogance, the waves roughen and The Divinity rocks back and forth with more force as the hour passes. You look over with hands behind your back as thunder crackles in the approaching gray sky, lightning flashing to brighten the dark colours. And you openly challenge it.   No god could beat you. Your biggest enemies are humans with greed which no know bounds and itchy palms that find slimy ways to disrespect the code you’re all bound by. But the supernatural? Gods?    They’re all tales of trickery.   You won’t succumb to the religion of worshiping unseen gods out of unreasonable fear or to confide in when things go astray and pray with false hope. The only thing that has helped you in this lifetime were your own abilities, your own skills, and your potential. When expeditions went awry, you were the one that saved yourself — when treasures were found, you were the one who indulged.   There’s nothing above you or below you, nothing after death that you need to live in restraint for. Your life is the only thing that counts. And you will never cower or bow down to anything else, even when the sea threatens to pull you down with it.   “Batten down the hatches!” your voice bellows above the crackling lightning and rumbling thunder. “Raise the main top yard!” The helm is in your grasp and you steer straight, keeping your eyes on the horizon that is no longer horizontal. Your crewmen run with your commands, doused from head to toe.   “Man the capstan! Steer clear of breaking water!”   The cold rain violently pummels on top of your skull, falling down into sheets to blind your vision. Your crew members are filling buckets of water from the deck and throwing it overboard, but the effort is obviously futile. The ocean is angered, sky booming as if it were screaming, unleashing their wrath. The salt-water smashes onto the side of The Divinity.    “Brace up yards!”   There is total darkness with no end in sight, as if the sea wants something, someone.   The ship rises with the swell and another intense wave comes crashing down. It engulfs you and pulls you away from the helm, your grip on it lost. The surge tries to grab at you, knocking you to the ground. As you struggle to stand, shouting out instructions, your voice is drowned and your mouth fills with saltwater, wheezing after you swallow it. You’re shoved onto the deck floorboards again and The Divinity threatens to flip, tilting on an angle.   You’re knocked to the side of the wall, completely lost control, dangling on the edge.   “Captain!”   And just like that, you’re pulled under.

It is black.    With your eyes peeled back, a muffled scream coming out in the form of tiny bubbles, you try to spin yourself around to see where you are. But the surface is out of reach, too far, and no matter how you flail your arms, kick your legs to swim, it seems as if the ocean is purposely pushing you down to its depths.    You realize the sea was never afraid of you — it was merely indulging in you for the sake of entertainment like dangling a toy in front of a tiny cat. It was playing with you until it got bored, sick of your hubris and pride. But you can’t die like this. You won’t accept it.   A great pirate does not die so easily.   You won’t—!   Your vision is clouded in pitch darkness. Your fight and struggle to the surface dwindle as your limbs seize and your body begins to sink deeper into the black, afloat in the depths of the ocean like a piece of dust with no mind, no purpose, no strength.    The last air bubbles leave your lips….   But as your consciousness fully slips under against your will, you feel palms graze against your cheeks. Your lips graze against something before they’re being parted by a spongy but warm texture. It’s soft and plush, and then air is inhaled into your lungs, reigniting your senses.

When you come to, you aren’t dead.   You’re on your knees.   Rope bounds your arms behind your back and your ankles together, digging into your skin and rendering you immobile. Your limbs are heavy like lead, as if you’re being held down or surrounded by water — struggling would prove futile any other way. But what takes your focus isn’t to fight the compromised position you’re in, it’s the man sitting on the golden throne.   His thighs are spread, but unwelcoming, and the trident grasped in his left hand proves so. But what is most strange is how his jaw, facial features are chiseled to perfection, reminiscent of stone statues that you’ve destroyed many times over. The long strands of his hair are swept back, in the colour of magenta berries that are seldom in your reaches. And the drapes adorn that falls to his knees are distinct with the thin cloak draped over his side that’s blue-black in a shade as deep as the ocean.    Never have you seen such a blinding person in existence before, despite having traveled far and wide.   The man is otherworldly.   “W-who are you?”   The overwhelming scent of the ocean radiates off of him. He smells intensely of the fresh sea breeze, the salted air and foaming bubbles on the surface that you can already taste in your mouth. But as familiar as it is, you don’t let up. Not with the way his thick brows are furrowed when he stares.   “Who am I?” The voice booms, echoing all along the bottom floor of the sea to the very surface where bubbles float. It drops into a menacing tone, a ripple that morphs into waves as he announces his place in the chaotic universe.    “I am the God of the Sea. He who rules all oceans and waters, who commands all creatures beneath the surface of your eye, far and wide. I am seated at the throne with rains and storms at my feet, protector and destroyer all of all seafarers true or hungry. I give to you the vital living force to which you can survive. Kneel and bow to your god!”   You stare, unsure of where you are when the walls are white, when the stone floor digs into your knees as your eyes reflect the gold decor surrounding the room. There are riches untold in this space, jewels and antiquities you can only imagine where they came from. But as you mull over your position, refusing to move, there is a force upon your back that shoves you to the ground.   You wheeze, gasping and water enters your mouth, causing you to cough it out.   There’s water all around you that can be swallowed, but unable to be breathed in. Your eyes open in shock, bulging at the tiny humans with their downcast heads. They are dwarves, ones of which you’ve seen paintings of, but their bottom halves are of octopuses, tentacles for legs. Those creatures refuse to look at you or at the male on the throne.   “I know your name.” Your teeth grit. You don’t know where you are, if this is all a nightmare or if you’ve been sent to damnation, but you grasp onto the only thing you’ve ever had — pride.    You’ve heard stories and tales of his bravery since young, from sailors and fishermen who sung his name in relief and cried it out as their last lifeline. While you never believed it, you might start changing your mind. “Jungkook.”   The half-humans and half-octopus holding you down with the bottom of his spear sharply inhales. “How dare you call your god by name, mortal.”   Jungkook waves the guard away, and you use your remaining strength to pull your torso up from the floor. Your eyes are narrowed in to stare at him. You won’t be scared when you have nothing to fear. There’s no reason to be afraid of a great god who cannot even save his own people. “If you know my name then you know who I am.”   “You must know mine too.”   His brow cocks, head tipping to the side. “Even in the face of your god—”   “—I have no god.”   The servants, only three feet tall, flinch. He bellows deeper, louder, ignoring your blatant disrespect. “—you are still, but a dirty human with a foolish arrogance. A hamartia that will kill you quicker than you can cry. Should’ve never soiled my mouth on you,” he spits and you frown, not knowing what he means. “But allowing you to drown would’ve been too easy of a punishment.”   “Punishment?” you scoff, challenging him openly, “And why am I deserving of punishment?”   “Your hubris is deserving of damnation in the underworld for eternity. To claim that you are the god of sea, of the ocean bowing to you, that you are equal to a god is an absurdity I have not faced for millennials. Your blatant disrespect and contempt is neither courageous nor gallant. It is foolish,” he curses.   “I only speak truths. And you are no god to me,” you bite back, refusing to allow him to speak down to you on his high horse. “I don’t put my faith in gods I do not see, in gods that don’t help in times of need, of gods that do not answer prayer.”   “I am seated before you and you….dare to reject me?”   “You take me because of my hubris and punish me so, but where were you when sailors were dying at sea? Where were you when the fishermen cried out to help? The men who were lost on passages to their families? I will never bow down out of my own will to a god who is more concerned about arrogance than saving his people.”   Jungkook’s jaw clenches, but after a second, he relaxes into a smirk. “You dare question my will and principals when all you have done is stolen? You have earned nothing that you have.”   “I steal and pillage to survive. Some of us don’t have the choice of sitting on thrones with a bunch of servants at our feet. Do not try to divert the blame to me.”   “Enough.” His voice draws deep from the pit of his stomach, walls seeming to rumble. “I will not sit here and argue with a mere mortal. I would rip that mouth off your face and take your voice if not for the fact that it’s the only amusing thing about you.” He smirks again, a rush of air leaving his nostrils in a snort. “Instead, I have chosen your rightful punishment. Your legs will be the price of your arrogance and pride.”   “My legs?”   “I command you to never walk upon the lands of treasure to satisfy your thirst of greed nor set sail amongst the sea to claim you are a god again. If the ocean is which you treasure, then you will live in it for the rest of eternity,” he bestows to you, a curse, a penalty for your sins. Jungkook sits at the top of his throne, but you never stop staring him down, unrelenting with your jaw clenched. “Your legs for a tail. Half-human, half-fish.”   “Half-fish?!” you shout in exasperation, struggling to get to your feet. The servants gasp at your blasphemy, of daring to interrupt and scream. The guards threaten to push you down, but you’re still agile and quick, slipping out of their grasps. You stumble against your binds, managing to get halfway up the steps to his throne, closer, and you catch the way he flinches.   “How fucking dare you? You are no god to me. You are a coward who is scared of others standing up and taking your place. You—!”   A shriek tears from your throat. You flop to the ground. Your legs burn, immobile, limp and heavy. Jungkook stares at you and the corner of his mouth curls. “Careful. The monsters and beasts of the sea love to eat humans.”

You don’t know how long it’s been.   You can breathe as much as you’d like, the water like air. Your skin is no longer bothered by the temperatures of the waters or when it freezes during the night. Your hair doesn’t become soaked like seaweed and heavy on your scalp when it flows freely.    It’s become easier to swim, fluid as if you are a part of the waves. And it’s as if you were born with a fish tail instead of legs, that your bottom half has always been filled with colourful scales. Pink and blue, glistening in the lights and shining like jewels you’ve once stolen. It flickers behind you like a good friend, slimy and coarse at some part, smooth at others.   It feels like you’ve always been like this.   But you know exactly how long it’s been.   You’ve been counting, tracking the stars and seeing how they align. What feels like an eternity has been but a single day. One sunrise. One sunfall.   Within the second hour of your transformation, you found The Divinity. It’s set back in its course after a small delay. But there was no way you can contact your crewmen now. They would never believe you.   You know better than that after being a pirate for so long. They’d think you’re a mythical creature trying to lure them into a trap to capture them.   So you’re left with watching from afar. Once they make it to shore, they’ll wait for you for three days — as stated in pirate code for members gone missing — and then they’ll go on without you.   You stay away from the surface after watching your ship leave, aware that other fishermen and sailors would jump at the chance to spear you and show your corpse off at circuses. Thus, with no other direction to swim to, you head to the depths of the ocean.   “You’re a….cecaelia?”   “Yes, half-human, half-octopus.” The young female bows her head reverently in greeting, tentacles holder her in place. “We are under the domain of the Gracious Jungkook, blessed is he who is brave and courageous and protects us all.”   You hold back from rolling your eyes.   But it was amazing how there were towns and civilizations under the water like this, life forces you’ve never known, practically a kingdom beneath your nose.    As you gaze around, you disregard the stares from the creatures — they’ve never seen anything quite like you before. Half-fishes like you aren’t so frequent, you’d like to assume.   “You are…?” she asks politely.   “I am Y/N,” you state honestly. She was kind enough to stop when you blocked her way. Not many wanted to speak to you. Each seemed to lower their heads and go on about their day quietly. “I don’t know what I am.”   “Oh.” The female cecaelia quirks her head to the side as a fish squirms by. “Are you lost? Do you need assistance?”   “No, well, yes. I’m looking for Jungkook,” you say plainly. “I was cursed by that scoundrel and fucking turned into this. So where is he?”   “The Great Jungkook?” she whispers in shock but doesn’t question it. If anything, she is more scandalized by your blatant disrespect and tries to divert the subject. “You must be a mortal...a maid, perhaps? Then that makes you a maid of the sea, a mermayde. I-I’ve never met a mortal before. It’s nice pleasant waters today, isn’t it?”   “Mermaid?” You’ve never heard of such a thing before, but you quickly shake your head, not entertaining the idea. You won’t allow her to evade the subject. “Where is he.”   “Y-You cannot search for our Great Jungkook. He only comes to you through prayer and sacrifice.” She bows her head and tries to swim away but you block her.   “Bullshit. Where does that bilge rat live?”   You’re not going down without a fight, demanding that she tell you. And once cornered, the creature’s trembling bottom lip is bitten into by her teeth.   You’re going to spear that bad-tempered rat with a pole when you can get your hands on him.

Jungkook walks along the carpeted corridor, glancing out the windows to where bubbles are slowly floating and making their way to the surface.   He hums a low note. “That human….have you heard any news about her?”   “The half-fish?” His servant, Sungdeuk, squeaks and yelps when Jungkook graces him with a glance. He bows his head even more. “L-Last I heard, there was news on the south shore that she traveled to the surface.”   “Hm.”    The Water God wonders passingly if you’re stupid enough to get noticed by sailors or fishermen. It would be a death sentence.   “Would you like to meet her?”   “No.” He continues walking again and the servants behind him tottle quicker after his shadow.   Jungkook couldn’t care less about your existence at this point. He’s asserted dominance by punishing you. But he’ll admit…..you’re terribly entertaining. 

His place is fucking massive. It’s unnecessary and excessive, but you wonder if that’s just your jealousy speaking. You’re rather self-aware.   You also know that given the chance, you’ll swipe and pillage the entirety of his home. You’d throw it onto any human boat just to get his precious antiquities onto land and out of his damn reach. But that might not even be enough to satisfy the anger you have boiling beneath your skin.   You want to see him — and kill him.   “Let me into the palace.”   The half-human, half-octopus guards ignore your presence completely.    “Let me in, scoundrels! Do you know who I am?! I demand an audience with your god!”   They allow themselves to be pushed and shoved and shaken, but never do they once inch away from their posts, still always blocking the entrance way.   There’s no other way in that you can see. You can’t swim up or down or crash into the stone walls. There’s little you can do but scream.   It’s fine by you. You still have at least forty years left to live. You’ll spend all those decades out here if need be. Your anger is enough to last that long and beyond.   “He’s a scalawag! I bet his mother was a wrench! Probably died in grief giving birth to a boy like him! A god?! Pft! More like a bilge rat!”   Your insults garner no reaction but glares.    Little do you know the impact inside the palace.   “Gods, what is that ruckus?!” Jungkook stands up from his throne chair, thumping the bottom of his trident as he demands an answer from his servants.   “Y-Your majesty,” Sungdeuk pipes up in a pathetic cry. “I-It’s the mortal you cursed.”   His expression falls. His lips pull in a straight line, eyes dimming. He is unimpressed and sighs, sitting back down and waving exhaustingly to his attendant.   “Continue reading the report.”   It takes three full days.   Three days of eating seaweed, of screaming and yelling and throwing insults, of throwing a massive tantrum and garnering the stares of servants and guards alike, in front of the entrance of his magnificent palace.   And unbeknownst to you, Jungkook can’t get rest whatsoever. He cannot lay down or even sit with a moment of peace. Not when you’re out there blatantly disrespecting him and soiling his home with your yells of letting you in and declares that he’s a rat or scoundrel — he’s unsure what the last one even means.   It gets to the point where his servants are on their tip-toes, afraid of his mood swings.    And Jungkook breaks.   “Get her in here!” He suddenly screams during a morning feast.   And when one guard comes rushing out, saying to the other that the god will entertain you, you are absolutely delighted.   This time, you’re able to swim through his palace, water surrounding you, but weightless and breathable. You’re no longer using your feet, but at least you’re not tied up in ropes like a sick present.   You hover over the lapis lazuli tiles, marveling at the magnificent decor and columns spiraling upwards infinitely. The servants stare, though you pay no mind, looking on with a sort of observation that holds less fear and more of an interest in what's possible to steal. But before you can even swipe something for later, you’re led into the familiar throne room and come face to face with the god you scorn and who’s cursed you for eternity.    There’s a nymph perched on his lap, a creature you recognize from mystical tales told in the moonlight. She is mystical, gorgeous with flowers decorating her hair and a sheet for a dress loosely draped over her frail frame. But she stares at you with a certain disdain, eyes narrowed in like a feline prepared to pounce.   “You can go, Jieun.”   Jungkook dismisses her and she sneers at you, turning her nose before hopping off his lap and strutting off with a servant stumbling behind her. You’re not amused in the least bit.   The god is lazy, exhausted as he slumps and diverts his attention to his fingernails like you are not even worthy of him looking at. “What is that you want this time?”   “My legs,” you demand, much to the mortification of his reverent servants. Your hands are digging into where your hips should be, but instead where slimy scales begin. “Now. Give it back to me.”   He scoffs with a grin and finally looks at you, arrogant in his gaze. “Absolutely not. You obviously have not learnt anything or suffered enough to speak to me in such a disrespectful tone. But, I’ll make an exception since you’re such a pretty, little thing. If you beg hard enough and bow down before your god, I’ll let you stay at my palace.”   Your brow twitches. It’s enough to set you off.   “Fuck you, you bilege rat, ya honourless scum.” There’s a sea of gasps, guards lurching forward to drag you out, but you continue to cuss him out with the temper of a pirate captain, “Come here ‘n fight me like a real man! Aren’t you supposed to be a god?! How dare you sit atop your throne and speak to me that way! You know what you are?! A hogshead barnacle! Rotten to the core—!”   The guards throw you out and you scream echoes throughout the room.   The doors shut with a deafening bang.   Jungkook sighs and resorts to rubbing at his temples with his fingers to lessen the onset of the headache. “Your majesty,” Sungdeuk pipes up by his side and when he turns to look, they all duck their heads. “W-why won’t you silence her? Her rudeness is quite….hard on the ears.”   “Let me teach you something…” The Water God stands and walks away as the parade of servants and guards begin to follow. “You don't kill your jesters unless you want to die of boredom.”

How dare he.   That damned scabby sea bass son of a sea witch.   In retrospect, you probably should’ve contained your anger. After days and nights of demanding to see him, you blew it and got thrown out without even a full minute of contact. But it’s outrageous and there’s no holding back your anger. More importantly, you’re in full disbelief that no one’s ever stood up to him — they’ve all backed down, looked on in fear and it’s ridiculous.   “—water’s quite nice today, isn’t it?”   “Indeed. I—”   “Did you hear?” You interrupt the cecaelias’ conversation, swimming up to their side with a wide eyed expression. “Jungkook’s fallen in love with a human.”   “A mortal?!” They whip their heads over, mouths drawing open to catch the small fishes swimming by, eyeballs nearly floating away from their sockets.    “Our Water God, the Great and Gracious Jungkook?!” The female half-octopus gasps and shakes her head, scandalized to no end. “Never.”   You try to hide the smirk tickling up on your lips. “Not as great as you think he is, huh?”   But the left one frowns and bows her head in spite of the rumour. “Even so, we shall not speak ill of our god. He knows what is best and protects us from all evil.”   Upon hearing it, the right one follows suit, also lowering her head. You roll your eyes blatantly in disdain, though with a little admiration with how loyal his subjects are. “Oh, there’s no reason to be afraid of him. He doesn’t hold as much power as everyone thinks he does. He’s just like us.”   They exchange expressions with one another.   It’s working.   You’ll get back at him one way or another. You can destory his kingdom from the inside out, illegitimize the fucking throne that he sits on. You know more tricks than just brute strength — you’re one of the greatest pirates the world’s ever seen after all.   “Did you know? The Water God isn’t as tall as he makes himself out to be. His throne sits high up but he’s really just five foot two. A tiny twerp, that fellow.” — “He’s very bad at counting. Has to rely on his servants to keep track of his belongings. Not as smart as he comes across.” — “He’s a skirt chaser. All day long he’s got different nymphs sitting on top of his lap. He’s a rather….lustful god.”   There are snickers and whispers, murmurs of his name that are spoken softly. And you continue to taint his title with every opportunity that presents itself.   “He’s fearful of seaweed.”   “Seaweed?” A smile threatens to tug on the creature’s mouth, a laugh held back. You hum while nonchalantly grabbing the clam drink that’s passed on the counter. It’s rather salty for your liking. But the atmosphere of the underwater tavern isn’t half bad and the creatures occupying the space are open ears desperate for secrets.   “It’s too slimy for his liking.”   The rumours spread far and wide. The sound of your voice echoes through others, rippling amongst the sea and tumbling into waves. You can see it, hear it when you swim through the underwater caverns — they’ve become less afraid to murmur the name of their god, excited even to have a change from the peaceful kingdom that brought boredom with its silence.   It’s perfect. If you’re forced to stay stuck here, you’ll make sure to find a way to rise above the tide, to maybe even claim his place. There’s no one to stop you.

There’s muttering in the palace, behind him, by his side, all around. They’re whispers that he can’t pick up on, not when they’re transpiring across the corridor and when the servants see him, they duck their heads and shut their mouths tightly. One thing is for certain…   They’re speaking about him.   “Sungduek.”   “Y-Yes, your majesty?”   “What are they saying about me?”   “I-I...uh...um...well...your majesty….n-nothing...of-of..of importance, I-I...c-can...ass...assure...you that.”   “Sungduek!” Jungkook shouts and spins around, stopping in his spot, his robes fluttering. The servant nearly begins sobbing with how harshly he’s called. “I asked you a question. I expect a proper answer. What are they saying about me.”   “Well…” He swallows hard, ducking his head low enough that his neck almost snaps off. “There’s been false rumours going around lately….”   “Rumours?” His thick brows furrow and his confusion is replaced with intrigue. The Water God knows only good things are spoken about him — perhaps this time it’s about how he’s brought more prosperity to the nation or maybe it’s about how there’s been less disturbance to the sea lately. Whatever the case may be, he wants to know, wants to satisfy his ego. “What kind of rumours?”   “Ummm….”   “Sungdeuk…..” Jungkook sighs. “I am getting quite tired of your mumbling and stuttering. You know how I feel about it, right?”   “Yes, sire.”   “Would you like to get blasted with thunder?”   “N-no, sire.”   “Then get on with it! Tell me!”   The half-octopus, half-human glances at his fellow servants beside him, but no one spares a glimpse of sympathy or of willing assistance. “T-that you’re short, your majesty.”   There’s a long silence.   The Water God doubts he heard properly.   “Excuse me?”   Sungdeuk rushes to save face. “O-of course, it’s all untrue! All of it! Even the fact that you’re scared of seaweed and pufferfish, that you’re allergic to flowers, that you’re afraid of seafarers setting sail across the ocean, that you’re in love with a mortal—”   His timbre booms across the land. “What?!”   “I promise you, anyone who speaks ill of these rumours again will be brought outside of the palace and suffer the appropriate punishment.”   “Oh, gods.” Jungkook turns around, headache worsening. He rubs at his temples, not wanting to start.   He doesn’t know where these speculations and scandals came from. It’s sudden.   But Jungkook also knows what else was a sudden change to this land — you.

It’s fun in the ocean.   At first, you were reluctant to come to terms with it. It’s not your home, not the place you wanted to be in. You rather set sail on the surface, chase after buried treasure and relish in the rewards of solving mysteries, make a name for yourself that people can bow to. But you’ve come to realize that there were plenty of secrets and gold in the depths of the sea too, places you’d never see if you still had your two legs.   There’s also a new sense of enjoyment of talking trash about that treacherous, boot-licker, sea-dog, Jungkook. No matter what you say about him, you haven’t gotten smote yet. And what’s he to do with you if he knew. You’re not afraid of death. And so, you swim far and wide with your tail, ruining his reputation while surrounded by the sea you love.   It’s not too bad.   “I don’t get why everyone’s so scared of ‘im.” Your tongue rolls casually, poor enunciation that doesn’t care for being proper. You’re rested against a rock, arm propped up on it with your chin in your hand as the scales of your tail shimmer with the light cascading down from above.   The young cecaelia hums, blonde hair clipped back with shells. “I wouldn’t say we’re scared of him! It’s called respect! At least that’s what daddy tells me.”   “Respect isn’t being afraid of talking. Respect isn’t being so reverent that you’re shaking in fear. I know what respect is, girl. Don’t try to fool me,” you counter with a bite to your words.   The child doesn’t understand half of what you say, but she continues anyways, tentacles flipping and playing with the kelp floating around, “But Mommy said that Water God’s done a lot for us! The least we can do is respect and pray to him. He protects us!”   “Darling, you protect yourself. Your parents protect you. The people you care about protect you. When has Jungkook ever protected you?”   “Well…” The female quirks her head to the side. “He….helps by putting food on the table.”   Your brow lifts. “Does he actually put food on the table for you? Have you seen him do it?”   “No.” Her voice weakens and she pouts. “But without him, we wouldn’t have food in the first place!”   “You would,” you tell while leaning closer, like a siren with a song that’s mystical and captivating. Her eyes are wide as she listens to you. All that you’re saying is new and she will sing your melody for others to hear as well. “See, the world works naturally with or without gods. There’s a balance. Without Jungkook, there would be food too. Your parents would catch it, they would cook it, and they’d put it on the table. It’s them, not your Water God.”   “But what about when bad things happen?” she whines, trying to understand. “Aren’t we supposed to pray and make sacrifices so things are better again?”   “When bad things happen, there’s nothing you can do to control it. It just happens. We try our best to overcome it ourselves, to become stronger ourselves. There’s no need for gods. You don’t need it. You can live perfectly fine without them. All you need is you and the people you care about.”   “Huh.” The child cecaelia slowly nods. “I never thought about it that way.”   What started off as petty revenge and a personal vendetta is quickly forming into something that tests your leadership skills. But you can feel it deep in your bones and you can see the way they look at you — less like you’re a foreign creature in their ocean, more like the door to a new world.   A revolution. A rebellion.   It’s your new goal.   “Has he ever helped you in times of need?” — “What has he ever done for you?” — “If he was so gracious, why doesn’t he stop death from happening? Why is there suffering in the first place?”   “Your ideas are dangerous, fish,” An older cecaelia interrupts your conversation as he lifts his glass of what you assume to be the underwater version of rum. If it weren’t so unbearably salty, you’d have a drink too.   “Aren’t you tired of being helpless?”   “We’ve been living fine for the past decades. Speaking ill of gods brings nothing but chaos and disaster.”   “We should be able to speak freely instead of being afraid of chaos and disaster,” you argue. “And sure, life here is fine. But fine? Fine. Is that all you want? Don’t you want to achieve greatness?”   “I do not want greed.” The creatures inside the tavern watch closely, heads flopping back and forth between both sides. The bartender’s hands move slow in cleaning the glass and even the souls hidden in the corners are oddly quiet. “I know when I have enough. I do not desire better or worse.”   “You do not desire better for your children? For the future?”   “My children will understand that this is best.”   You scoff loudly. “This ain't best. The person keeping you from best is sitting atop that throne of ‘is. Making all the decisions and benefiting from them the most. But who pulls the weight? Who’s all working while he’s sitting there enjoying it all? You.”   “Aren’t you worried that your courage is foolish, girl?”   “No.” You take your stand, voice loud and clear. “I’d rather die for my own dignity and honour than live being stepped on and being forced into silence. My voice is important. I want to be heard. I’m living here now, and I should be able to say what I want, have what I want and control what I need.”   There are nods, murmurs that agree. The older man smiles gently with a kind of condescending wisdom that isn’t appreciated. “And you think denying your god will bring you the freedom you seek?”   “I will fight need be. There is no god when there are no people to rule over.”   There’s shouting, the crowd roused up. Power tingles the tips of your fingers. You’re stronger than you’ve ever been before.

He can feel it.   Jungkook looks out the rounded window to his capital, the city that stands tall amidst the water. But while pride usually runs through his veins, this time he’s unable to relish in such emotion. Not when the waters are moving faster and the sea is unresting.   The walls continue to talk, servants that murmur as he strides past, whispers that seem to carry from the outside in. But this time, he pays mind to it. He notices. And he especially notices how it’s silent inside his head, how prayers are seldom echoing, less than what they used to be. The peace is unsettling. His people haven’t become less selfish in their begging and pleas. His people aren’t muttering about his great achievements.   He knows what’s going on. Jungkook isn’t a blind god.   “Sungdeuk.”   “Y-yes, your majesty?”   He shuts his eyes, jaw tight. He traces the noises back to a human that’s easy on the eyes and who’s fishtail glistens in the sunlight. But whose sharp tongue and jarring words seem to mar the unpolished beauty that the God of Spring would be jealous of. You — the most bottom layer of these seductive and infectious rumours. Your voice that is almost soundless, but still present.   “Get that human.”   “Certainly, sire.” The three feet servant dashes off, tentacles sweeping the waters until he disappears down the corridor.   And soon, Jungkook comes face to face with you who still dares to challenge him with an arrogant expression and your nose raised high in the air, never once cowering in his presence. His headache pounds inside his skull as he regards you, but his face remains impassive not to give away his fascination and amusement.    How could it be possible that someone like you, a mere mortal turned half-fish, can cause so much damn trouble in his kingdom. He couldn’t have ever fathom it. It’s intriguing.   “I know what you’ve been up to.” He lifelessly waves his hand, dismissing the guards and servants from the throne room. It’s just you and him, but you don’t seem the least bit intimidated.   “And what have I been up to, your majesty.” There’s a bite to your words, spoken straight from spite.   He gets up from his golden chair, arms behind his back as he walks slowly down the stairs to meet you at the bottom. He paces around, circling you as if you were prey, allowing the silence to increase the tension. Jungkook wonders what it takes to truly scare you.   “Trying to cause unrest in my kingdom. Lead my people foolishly astray and against me. You’re really something, aren’t you?”   “They’re not being led foolishly astray. They follow me by choice. They have their own will.”   “Your ignorance isn’t admirable. You bring forth chaos and destruction to my kingdom.” He fights back, stopping to face you and stepping forward. But you don’t back down, don’t back away, unwavering even when your bodies are pressed against one another’s. “I ought to just spear you and put you in my museum, you troublemaker.”   Your chin lifts, eyes narrowed into slits, lips a millimeter away as you taunt him. “Go ahead. I’ll become a symbol, a sacrifice, a martyr.”   “You view yourself highly, don’t you?” Jungkook scoffs lightly and steps back. “I’ve said it before but killing you would be a waste. You obviously haven’t been punished hard enough. No matter. I have other solutions.”   “What are you going to do?” you ask, not out of fear and more of morbid curiosity.   The Great Jungkook turns, so that you’re only able to see the profile of his face and the smirk that pulls on his mouth. “I have no choice but to keep you right by my side and keep a close watch on you.”

Maybe they were right — Jungkook, that bilge swine rat, isn’t a force to be reckoned with. Turning your legs into a tail was something. But being made to stay with him was the real punishment.    That ill-tempered bootlicker knows how to get under your skin.   “You-your majesty!” Sungdeuk throws the door open without warning, stumbling in on his tentacles like a mindless octopus.    “What?”   The Water God sighs at the rudeness, arm perched on his arm rest as Jieun rests on his lap. She twiddles with the thread gone loose at the hem of his cape collected at his shoulders. The nymph cozies up to him, but he pays no mind.    He’s bored.    Until he realizes that it’s you who’s imprudently entering into his throne room right after.   “When are we eating? I’m hungry.”   The corner of his mouth pulls. You’re dressed in servant clothing, simple blue robes deep in hue and that billow down. It’s simple attire meant to show the division of classes of the divine and commoners, but somehow there’s an unrefined beauty to it when it’s on you.    But where your two feet should be, it’s your fishtail peeks out, flickering to keep yourself a few centimeters above the floor, a reminder of the punishment he’s given you.    “Who says you get to eat?”   “Are you going to let your prisoner die?”   He laughs, the sound oddly melodic to your ears and not at all imposing. “You’re right. What kind of god would I be if wasn’t merciful and let the poor starve.”   “How gracious of you.” Your eyes roll to the back of your skull.   The respected Water God is about to rise from his seat before he realizes there’s still a nymph on his lap. His expression glazes over at once and he motions to her languidly. “You can leave now.”   You don’t fail to notice the way the nymph glares at you in spite. She lets out a ‘hmph’ before marching off but you’re not amused. “Hurry up before I cook one of your servants.”   Sungdeuk audibly squeaks.   Jungkook’s never dined with someone of lower status before, but you set yourself right across from him without asking and you begin eating without a moment’s notice, not even to spare a glance at him once. You consume the food ravenously, not caring if it’s poisoned or there’s a bound curse that’ll make you stay stuck in his kingdom forever. You’ve heard tales of such things before — but you’re sure it’s Jungkook who should be afraid that you’ll be present for eternity, and not the other way around.    Jungkook watches you eat and holds back a smile of amusement. “Is the food any good?”    You make a disgruntled noise and speak with your mouthful. “It may be the only thin’ good about this place.”   He gives a sound of a half-scoff and half-laugh. You’ve never witnessed the Water God in such a relaxed mood before, but perhaps this is the first time that you’ve even held a proper conversation with him that wasn’t filled with animosity on both sides. “I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself. But please, don’t talk with your mouth full.”   You look up with a brow cocked, ripping into a chicken leg with your teeth on purpose and opening your mouth again. “Bite me.”   Jungkook gives a disgusted expression. He drops his silver spoon, appetite lost.   He watches you smear your dirty hands on your robes. “Use a napkin for gods’ sake, you uncultured barbarian.”   You glare, forgoing your utensil and just to mock him, you dip your entire hand into his cooled chowder, cocking your head to one side as you feed yourself with your palm. His jaw clenches.   “You’re imprudent to an impressive degree. Your ignorance will kill you someday, mortal.”   “Hasn’t killed me yet,” you say sharply, unintentionally spitting at his cheek. At once, Jungkook freezes and then he wipes it off with his sleeve. He holds in the urge to smite you with lightning or take away your underwater breathing abilities to watch you drown. “Wha’ do ye want me to do now that I’m your captive?”   “First off, fix that poor language skills of yours. It’s uncivilized.”   “Fine,” you enunciate sharply once more, spitting at him again. Jungkook physically flinches this time and a muscle in his face twitches. “What. are. you. going. to. do. to. me.”   He wipes at where you spat at him and sits back, not touching his food at all. “Nothing. But I’m starting to think you should have a teacher to teach you some proper manners since you obviously didn’t learn any above the surface.”   “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”    You swipe two chicken legs off of his golden platter, one in each hand to eat. The tip of your fishtail flicks at his knees underneath the table. Your articulation is now proper but still foreign, and it causes you to spit accidentally at his face for the third time.   Jungkook takes a deep inhale to regain composure.   “You are not to leave the palace without my permission. My guards are already aware, so don’t try any tricks. But you’re free to roam as you please within limits. There are the gardens and the library. Maybe you can educate yourself in the meantime.”   “That’s it?”   “That’s it.” He smirks, clasping his hands together with his elbows on the table. “You’re stuck with me for eternity. Maybe you can learn to view me as your god someday.”   You scoff, almost vomiting at how disgusting the future prospect is. But while you’d love to soil his dinner table with puke, you can’t show your weaknesses to the enemy, so you challenge him instead, “Fine. We’ll see how long you can bear it for.”   //   Jungkook strides down the hall, his robes swishing slowly as he moves. They’re silk fabrics that are pitch black at the shoulders before bleeding like watercolours into an ocean blue, fading into a sea foam white at the bottom where it pools. He appears majestic, but certainly doesn’t feel so.   “The Goddess of the Sky has yet to respond to—”   He stops. He looks down. He lifts his foot. “Why is there mud here?”   His beautiful garments are now stained with brown. If he didn’t know better, he’d assume Victoria, Goddess of Agriculture, has a vendetta against him and sent cow manure in his path.   “O-oh, uh…” Sungdeuk dips his head, pausing from reading the report. The other servants notice and immediately rush over with a bucket and mop. “Lady Y/N brought it in from the gardens.”   Jungkook sighs.   //   His bleary eyes travel across the script, reading it over before finishing and handing the roll over to Sungdeuk. With a second of rest at hand, he muses how gods should relish in luxury, not slave away like peasants. But alas, being a ruler of people and being worshiped does not come easy.   His neck is sore. His legs are asleep. His head aches.   He wishes he could rest, but goes for the second best option he has.   Jungkook roars, “Can someone get me sea biscuits?”   The three feet tall maid comes tumbling from the side. “Y-your majesty, we don’t have any more sea biscuits.”   The Water God’s pupils flicker upwards. “Excuse me?”   “L-Lady Y/N’s eaten them all.” Her voice is small, barely heard in her squeal. “She’s taken quite a liking to them….”   It seems to be that you’ve made yourself right at home in his palace….   Jungkook sighs.    //   The doors open to his private quarters. While sleeping isn’t necessary for deities and may even be regarded as a weakness, in secret he desires the indulgence of a few hours of peace and quiet as he’s sure many other gods do as well….   But before he can step inside and retire, he notices his golden chalice on his vanity missing and the vase in the corner pushed to the wrong spot.    “Who was in my room without permission?!” Jungkook barks, loud enough for the ground to rumble.   The guard standing with his downcast head shivers. “Lady Y/N was in here earlier, your m-majesty. We tried to stop her, but, but, but she said you allowed her…”   Jungkook sighs. Long enough for his lungs to squeeze and hurt.   //   There hasn’t been a single day of serenity in the ocean since your arrival into his home.   When he sees you, there’s always a mouth full of things you have to spit at him, nagging and insulting, always undermining his power and authority to make him look bad in front of his own people. The only reason he hasn’t stolen your vocal cords is due to the fact that he has to admit it’s a little amusing. He’s never bored when you’re being noisy and defiant.   And it’s definitely more unsettling when it’s finally quiet.   Jungkook puts down the scroll.   It hits him and he doesn’t show it, but he’s even fearful.    “Sungdeuk…”   “Yes, sire?”   “Where…..is the mortal?”   “L-Lady Y/N is in the East Pavilion.”   The Water God’s thick brows furrow deep. “East Pavillion…?” The place where his harem of nymphs reside in preparation for his beckon and call, the ones that he doesn’t bother seeing these days. Nonetheless, what reason could you have to possibly be there?   Jungkook finds himself standing up, nearly falling over with how fast he does so.   He strides off and then stops mid-step, spinning around to his attendant. “Since when did she become a lady?”   “W-well, if she isn’t a lady, your majesty, then what is she?” Sungdeuk asks in genuine curiosity, blinking twice.   Jungkook sighs yet again.   …   You’re a prisoner of the palace, a captive that’s free to do whatever you please, and so you do what you do best — be yourself and wreck absolute havoc.   “What are you doing here?”   “What’s wrong with me being here?”    The nymphs gasp as you flop down onto one of their straw beds. They’re huddled in the corner like you’re a frightening creature, ironic considering they’re the ones odd to you. But rather than being frightened, you admit their beauty would easily seduce sailors and fishermen, perhaps even your crew members. Their skin seems to glow, hair made of flowers, captivating by nature. Though you figure they don’t have that high of a status since they’re essentially Jungkook’s concubines.    “It’s a disgrace!” Their leader shrieks, a particularly magnifying divine spirit that you recognize, having been perched on Jungkook’s thigh. “You can’t go wherever you please!”   “Jungkook let me.” Your head lolls to the side.   “How dare you call his majesty so rudely without any titles,” Jieun spazzes, “Y-You are undeserving of his attention, mortal.”   Your eyes roll to the back of your skull. “Believe me, I don’t desire his attention.”   “W-wha—”   “Tell me something.” You rise to your feet to pace around her, exactly like how her god had once done to you. “Your name is Jieun, am I wrong? Did you ever choose to come here, Jieun?”   The nymph is caught off guard as she stares at you. “I—..uh..it’s an honour to serve the Gracious Water God. I was lucky to be chosen.”   “But you didn’t choose to come here and serve Jungkook, right? You, yourself, didn’t choose to be here?”   “I am happy to be here. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” She continues to hold her head up high and the other nymphs are easily swayed with her, becoming more self-assured.   You smirk with an understanding nod. “Do you ever wonder what’s above the surface?”   “Above the surface?” one of them pipes up, curiously asking despite the sharp look Jieun passes her.   You answer her question happily, recalling it as if they were old days out of reach. “I used to live above the surface as a mortal. I set sail across the ocean, and saw treasures and lands unknown. I had choices. Above the surface, you don’t have to be afraid of anyone. You can decide what kind of life you want for yourself. You can choose where to go, what to do, who to love.” You look back upon them with a softer smile. “You get to live one life. Why would you spend it chasing after the sea God’s tail?”   The nymph frowns. “It’s an honour.”   “But is it what you want?”   There’s a ripple, murmurs that break through them. Jieun becomes disgruntled, but speechless at your dreamy description and the promise of possibilities that doesn’t seem so frightening.   “To serve Jungkook is exactly what I want,” she mumbles, mustering composure.   “But does he even love and appreciate you?” Your hand grazes against her shoulder, touch tender and gentle as you gaze into her eyes. “You’re worth so much more than this, than serving a god who never looks at you twice, who barely remembers your name, who just wants you because you’re here. Men are undeserving of beautiful creatures like you. You deserve so much more.”   “If I wasn’t here, where else would I be?”   Your smile has never been warmer and it doesn’t crack under the concentration of your forced persuasion that comes too naturally. “There are countless places to be. Underneath the ocean, above the surface on land. There’s so many things to do and see. You don’t have to be afraid.”   She turns away from you, hands clasped together. “Leaving isn’t easy.”   “It is now that I’m here,” you whisper. “I can help you….”   The nymphs exchange expressions. Jieun is lost. Her lips part. “I—”   “Y/N!”   There’s a roar of your name in a way you’ve never heard before. It reverberates across the land to the deepest caverns, stirring to the bottom of the sea floor. The enunciation imprints into your mind, drawing your attention and focus.   You turn around to find him striding in, dark blue robes swishing against the water, raspberry hair strands sprawled across his forehead. His palm opens and wraps around your wrist, pulling you towards his chest. You almost lose your steady footing and stumbling into him. Almost.   “What are you doing?”   “Nothing,” you say coyly.    Jungkook doesn’t bat an eyelash. “Really? I find that hard to believe.”   “Your majesty.” Everyone scrambles and bows, lowering themselves onto one knee except for you. You remain, intrigued at how deeply the Water God stares at you.   “Go to your room,” he barks out. And as irritated as you would be from his command, his disorientation only means that you’ve successfully gotten under his skin.    It’s an overwhelming victory on your end.   “You can’t stop the will of the people,” you tell with a smirk, tugging free of his grasps and leaving.   Jungkook sighs.    In the meanwhile, Jieun lifts her head, her pupils following your shadow without a shred of jealousy. Instead, it’s newfound admiration.   //   No matter where you are, the earth quakes beneath you. Jungkook’s beginning to question who’s the one with the real power and influence here — if he’s even deserving of his title and throne anymore. He’ll never tell you or anyone living that he’s re-examining his capabilities, but he’s certainly contemplating it with his harem shaken and Jieun bowed in front of him.   He doesn’t listen to her careful explanation of what she’s been thinking as of recently. He merely waves his hand.    “I won’t stop you. It’s not my wish to force those into positions that they do not desire to be in.”   “Thank you, your majesty, for your graciousness and kindness. It is a favour I will make sure future generations will know of and my children’s children will know of this tale. It was an honour to serve by your side and be put in this palace in the first place. I will never forget your mercy and benevolence.”   He nods several times, holding in yet another sigh. “I’m glad that someone knows how to show gratitude. You may be dismissed from your service.”   They follow her, one after another, the nymphs pack their bags. They leave the empire in search for a new life, causing the East Pavilion to be empty. Jungkook’s entertainment gone. All because of you.   He’s not as angry as he should be. After all, you’re his best source of entertainment.   “Are you proud of yourself?”   He joins your side, looking out the rounded windows to the garden of his water hyacinths and lotuses that are blooming in season. “I am.”   “You don’t care about the will of the people. You don’t care about freedom and justice or even integrity. You just want to bring chaos to my kingdom and make everyone defy me.”   “That’s right.” You laugh, turning to him and even bumping into him playfully as you would do to a crewmember after finding secret treasure. “And you’re surprised that it’s actually working.”   The Water God exhales shallowly, at a loss of what to do with you. “My people are innocent and easily swayed. They don’t know a criminal when they see one.”   “I’m not the one holding the other person as a prisoner.” You scoff lightly. “It’s not my fault that I’m naturally talented to be a ruler. People follow me wherever I go.”   “Tch, your arrogance. You never learn, do you?”   “You just don’t want to see the truth that I mesmerize people. I got a love letter from Jieun, did you know that? Before she left.”   Jungkook stares. “And will you accept her feelings?”   Your shoulder shrugs, not paying mind when your eyes are set at the golden painting in the corridor hall that’s held shape underwater. You ponder how much it’s worth. “Perhaps. She’s got good prospects. I’ve never thought I’d ever marry, but she’s a beauty. A treasure in her own way. Would get ‘em jealous on land.”   “I have better prospects.”   The corner of your eye watches him. It’s come out of nowhere. “Are you suggesting that I wed to you instead?”   The male god beside you doesn’t stop to chuckle or sneer at your question. He merely hums, not taking more than a second to reconsider his instinctive answer, “Maybe if you weren’t so insolent, I might’ve even had a thought or two to make you my queen.”   Your head swivels over in surprise, for once fully caught off guard. And he smirks at your reaction, looking down at you. “Don’t you know how merciful I am? If the other gods had their hands on you, they would’ve strangled you right away with their pinky.”   “Oh really?” Your brow lifts and your arms open wide, face knocking back. At the top of your lungs, you challenge Heaven to destroy you. “I welcome the gods too! Come get me! Do it! Kill me!”   There’s a sudden rumble of earth beneath your feet, the noise of lightning sounding over your head. But it halts the moment Jungkook slaps his hand over your mouth. He leans in close to whisper in your ear, breath hot against your skin, “Don’t fucking do that, you insolent idiot.”   You throw his palm off of you, sneering, “Bootlicker.”   He scoffs in sheer disbelief. “Excuse me?”   “Nothing.” You shrug mischievously with a laugh that sounds more like a giggle. An innocent noise that hasn’t been audible since you were a child. “I didn’t say anything, your majesty.”   Jungkook shakes his head and sighs. “I can’t save you if you anger the other gods. That’s out of my domain, so be wary.”   You pat his shoulder condescendingly with vigorous nods. “I’m sure you’ll find some way to save me, oh Great God of Water and Slimy Fishes.”   With the last word, you swim off, purposely flicking your tail at his knees and he watches as a tiny smile tickles at his lips. “What a troublemaker.”   “Only the best,” you chime without looking back, and he’ll admit that you aren’t wrong. He’s never had a handful quite like you before.   //   The longer you stay in the underwater kingdom, stuck in his palace and wandering in the same halls and rooms, the more things you come to realize. For one, this place isn’t as grandiose as it was first glance. When everything comes in porcelain and gold, those things aren’t rare as it used to be — you realize these treasures are rather boring and dull.    And the second thing that you mull over with so much time on your hands is how Jungkook is less like a fearful god and more like a capable man you’d meet on the shore.   He’s as ordinary as someone arrogant like him could be — at least that’s what you consider while staring at the obnoxious painting he has of himself hung at the front of the courtyard.   One of the attendants approach timidly, hands folded together and polite smile painted on her features. “Are you admiring his majesty’s splendor?”   “No,” you mutter as your eyes trace the slope of his nose to the dip of his cupid’s bow. You’re not sure if you like the way his portrait stares at you, wearing such a stern but gentle expression at the same time. “I have an urge to punch him.”   The servant is shocked, eyes wide. Your contempt is always surprising as it is refreshing, but she still clears her throat. “If I may speak out of line, Lady Y/N, your ridicule for the Water God may be excessive at times.” You shift towards the short cecaelia. “He’s cursed me. Look at my tail.”   “Yes, well, he is just and doesn’t deliver punishment without reason.”   “You don’t have to suck up to him. He’s not here.”   She adorns a reserved smile. “The Water God is at times cruel and prideful, but he protects his people and yours too. You used to be adrift at sea, right? He looks after seafarers. He’s probably looked after you as well.”   You remain quiet for a second after tearing your eyes away from his painting. “Then why are there storms? Why do sailors die at sea?”   “The Water God is not the only god in this world,” the cecaelia tells while wearing a look ridden with wisdom. No matter how much you try to lead his people astray and convince them otherwise of his supreme powers, most are loyal to the core. They only sway on the surface — a detail you’ve longed notice and don’t bother telling Jungkook. “There are many others that fight for control, that influence the winds and sea. But he tries his best to protect us against them.”   Your lashes flutter and you turn back to his portrait.   ….   Half across the palace, Jungkook sits on his golden throne, lap no longer warmed by a nymph. But beauty isn’t far out of his reach. Just a few meters away, there are sirens perched on their stools, playing stringed instruments with their lips parted as beautiful voices stream out.   Yet it’s the same seductive melody.   He sighs in exhaustion. Sungdeuk immediately notices. “Your majesty, is this not to your liking? There is another caravan of creatures—”   “It’s all the same.” He waves them away and the music stops at once. The sirens lower their heads and scatter from the center of his throne room.   “There’s still time until the next task. Do you wish to rest, your majesty?”   The Water God stands on his feet. It was his time for fun, to relax and enjoy his kingdom, a seldom occurrence. Yet, there was nothing to entertain him. There may be countless things to do, but they don’t matter if there is no desirable company…   Except, someone comes to mind—   “Where is the mortal?”   //   A smile tickles at his lips, one he’ll never show to the sunlight. Jungkook’s secretly pleased that you’re here and even more pleased when he finds you staring at his portrait.   “Thinking about how grand I am?” He tries to sneak up on you, but you don’t give him the satisfaction of being frightened.    The servant speaking to you dismisses herself while you scoff. “I don’t think I’m the one who has a foolish amount of hubris and pride.”   If only he was courageous enough to show, you’d see him sulking.   “Half of being a god is putting on a good show. If I was humble, I’d be underestimated. Heaven is built on statues, not just paintings.”   “Good to know the worshiped figures of the world spend their time wisely.”   Jungkook smiles and shakes his head. “We aren’t the only conceited ones. You humans, especially those who claim they’re kings and queens, have a taste for luxury.”   “Why don’t you don’t punish them?”   “Well, none of them go around claiming they’re the God of the Sea.” His ears perk as you laugh, finding his statement true. His gaze becomes imploring as he leans in closer. “I’m sure you know. You’ve stolen their paintings before haven’t you?”   “Paintings of kings and queens? I suppose. But they’re not memorable,” you hum before considering it carefully. “Oh. We once did a heist on Emperor Shang’s ship. That’s something to remember,” you tell as pride beams off your skin. “It wasn’t planned but we saw his ship from the distance and in the dead of the night, my crew and I jumped onto his deck and raided it. I almost got killed, but it was worth it. I’ve never had an emperor bow to me and beg me for mercy before.”   There’s something frightening in the way your eyes glisten, how your hands are curled in a triumphant fist. You’re power hungry and proud of such an accomplishment. It makes Jungkook muse that humans are so entirely fickle in their emotions. Yet, their enthusiasm is contagious.   “You never got punished for it?”   “Nope. We went on our way,” you boast. “I’ve set sail across the sea with my ship The Divinity, found dead men’s treasure, evaded execution, done everything a pirate could ever wish for. It was really tough, but worth it.”   You tell tales of your adventures while Jungkook listens in with curiosity. He doesn’t let you know that he’s already heard most of these stories from his own observation, from rumours that somehow were whispered to the underwater kingdom of his, and from what Sungdeuk’s read from reports of the mortal realm.   “You’re greedy,” he breathes out after ten minutes.   You scoff. “You are too.”   It’s blasphemous and he should be offended, but he strangely isn’t. Your defiance is almost expected at this point. “How?”   “Look around. Everything you have is made of gold.”   Little do you know that everything is merely surface level. Jungkook doesn’t care about his palace decor or what there’s plastered on the walls. Though he makes no effort to argue with you because he is greedy.    Deep down, Jungkook is aware that any other god would’ve punished your sacreligious behaviour by plummeting you to the deepest ravines of the ocean with a ball and chain attached to your ankle. They’d watch you drown, make an example out of you. But he can’t let you go.   Jungkook’s greedy — he wants more and more of you.   “If you think this is beautiful, there are many other places in this vast ocean that you haven’t seen.”   “Like what?” You’re genuinely curious, eyes boring into his, a gaze that’s ignorant as it is unwavering.   “The caverns. During dawn, it’s the most beautiful—”   “Take me there,” you demand. But after a second of silence and his heavy staring, you withdraw into yourself, muttering, “...please, your majesty.”   You’re too caught up in your own head to know that you didn’t need to ask. He would’ve happily shown you either way.   //   “Are we allowed to just leave?”   “Do you know who I am? I’m the Great and Brave God of the Sea, he who rules all waters. My domain lies in the most vital living force to which all can survive—”   “You’re slow, that’s what you are.” Your tail flicks in front of his face, swimming off.    Jungkook quickly catches up, and he doesn’t need to flail his limbs whatsoever or make an effort to swim. There’s a force underneath his feet that moves him, water currents that help to transport his body as he effortlessly folds his arms behind his back, standing tall and majestic.    Your eyes could not roll hard enough at his smug expression. But you brush it off, peeking at him again. “Can I ask you something?”   “Whether I give you permission or not, you’re still going to ask me.”   “If you have unlimited powers as a god and you’re supposed to protect seafarers, then why do they die out in the ocean?”   “Are you asking if I purposely call forth storms to harm mortals?” He turns his head. “Or are you asking about your parents?”   You’re caught off guard. Your parents were dead before you could even remember their faces, but you were told that the ocean dragged them out, that they simply never came back. You hated the sea for so long, was afraid of it, until you got out yourself in an attempt to understand.   The God of the Sea that people spoke about was something you never believed in. Up till now.   “I’m afraid their bodies are at the bottom of the ocean. My condolences.” Jungkook is straightforward and blunt, painfully so. “I may be the God of the Sea, but there’s a whole kingdom of gods and goddesses. A structure even I cannot fight against. My powers are affected by them. Namely...the Goddess of the Sky.” He grimaces, jaw clenched tight.   You’ve never heard of her, of such a goddess. But you don’t dwell when you’re suffocated in the tension. In an attempt to alleviate it, you tease, “Guess you’re not the almighty after all.” There’s silence that follows and you stare, voice softening. “It’s okay. It isn’t your fault.”   Jungkook shifts his gaze towards you, searching your expression. After a moment, he tears his eyes away and clears his throat. “Come along. It’s up here.”   The surface is close enough that you can see where the light meets the water, how the ripples shimmer and the world around you is a rich azure hue. You don’t ask questions as you come up for air gasping, having forgotten what the open world was like.   The entrance opening is far away and the water here seems to glow with the reflection of the crystals hanging from the ceiling. Every splash and splatter seems to echo throughout as you prop yourself up halfway. Your tail still flickers in the water while Jungkook stands fully. His legs work on land and it makes you look on in envy.   “Why did you give me a fishtail? Why not….tentacles or even flippers?”   “Would you have preferred that?”   “No, but—”   “It was the first thing I thought of,” Jungkook admits while staring at the way your colourful scales glimmer, catching the light and shining in every shade of the rainbow. “Sometimes, I don’t think it’s much of a punishment.”    He inhales and looks around, continuing, “What do you think of the place?”   “It’s beautiful.” Your voice reverberates against the cave walls and you watch your tail ripple your own reflection and Jungkook’s. He takes a seat beside you, propping his legs up to rest.   “You can’t get to this place without going underwater.”   “So it’s like a secret hideout.”   “Something of that sort.” He hasn’t shown anyone before, but he’s glad he could present it to someone who has much of an appreciation for the sea as he does. He can tell with the way you look around his world. “You love the ocean, don’t you?”   “Course I do.” Your tail splashes harder against the water, getting the side of his face wet and he flinches. Your giggle goes unappreciated. “No one can be out at sea for as long as I have without loving it. You’d drive yourself mad otherwise.”   There’s no place you’d rather be. You’ve grown accustomed to the breeze, the smell of the saltwater, the endless blue and the adventure of discovering lands unknown on the horizon. The rocking of The Divinity has become your lullaby to make you sleep easy, and the scenery of stars at night is something you wouldn’t trade for the best of treasures.   “How’s it like being in it?”   You hum a low note. “It’s nice. I get to see things I would never, but there’s something about setting sail that’s better to me. Maybe because it’s so exhilarating. When you’re deep in the ocean, it’s beautiful and mysterious, but also kind of peaceful. It’s quiet. But on the surface, it’s louder and unpredictable. I think that’s half the fun.”   “Aren’t you afraid of the danger?” Jungkook asks with an inquisitive gaze.   “No.” You twist towards him. “You’d be protecting me, right?”   The Water God scoffs, but is unable to look away from you. Instead, his hand wanders to the inside of his dark robes and your brows lift, automatically shifting backwards. “Why are you undressing?”   “What? I’m not, stupid mortal. I’m giving you a gift.” He reaches inside his pocket and takes your hand, opening your palm up to place something cool to the touch inside of it.    Your eyes drop down. There are ridges against your hand, a vivid tint of pink and orange that reminds you of coral, but a smooth and iridescent side facing up. “A shell?”   “It’s not an ordinary shell, mortal. There’s only two in the entire universe.”   “Who has the other one?”   “I do.” He flashes his own and clears his throat. “We can see each other if we hold it up at the same time.” Your eyes flicker over and true to his word, you find a reflection of him. “Whether you’re on ocean or land…”   “Why?” You blink, genuinely not understanding the purpose of his present.   “You’re a troublemaker,” Jungkook states indifferently while he diverts his eyes elsewhere. “You might need my help sooner or later. Take it as a present from your merciful god. Unless you don’t want it? I’ll take it back.”   “Uh, no thanks,” you scoff and grasp it tightly into your lap before he can take it away. “You can’t take back a gift once you’ve given it away. I know a prized possession when I see one.” The gentle smile he has isn’t hidden from your sight and your voice softens once more. “T-Thank you.”   The God of the Sea makes a disgruntled noise at the back of his throat and he nudges you towards the tiny opening of the cave. “Look, the sun’s rising. Seokjin still has it in him, huh?”   “Who?”   “Nevermind,” he hushes quickly and the two of you observe as the luminescent rays pierce through the horizon, shedding the darkness away from the sky. The light hits the water and bleeds through to make the blue a richer hue. It travels and soon fills the cavern walls in a shade of gold that twinkles.   You gasp and Jungkook smiles, stealing a glance of you.   You don’t notice how the waters become a bit warmer and the turquoise threatens to turn into a rose tint.   //   The ocean is calm, but the tides are playful — reaching out to soak children’s toes standing on the sandy shore. The fishermen are having better luck this season, catching nets filled with fish. The temperature too is pleasant for a swim, to play in. And Jungkook is happier than usual.   His eyes are glassy, faraway, and he pays little attention to the tasks at hand. Instead, a satisfied smile is constantly plastered on his face, glued to his visage, and quickly his servants become concerned. Especially Sungdeuk.   “—Goddess of the Underworld and her—” His voice drowns in and out. “Y-Your majesty? Your majesty!”   “What?” The God of the Sea snaps back into attention, wearing a stern expression that has his attendant dipping his head.   “Pardon me. I was just reading the daily report.”   “Yes? Continue.”   “Well, I asked a question, your majesty.”   “Right, right.” His brows furrow deep as he massages his temples. “What was it again?”   Jungkook’s thinking about you, mind too preoccupied. He’s trying to complete his duties as the Water God, to look over his entire kingdom. But somehow, his mind always strays towards you, what you could possibly be doing, if you’re causing trouble again, and what you think of him. If you still resent him for punishing you and keeping you here, if you’re grateful for that gift of his….   And Jungkook’s mind only seems to be satisfied when he sees you, when he joins you for dinner or breakfast or lunch, when he finds you wandering the courtyard or trying to steal his decor for your secret stash of gold underneath your bed you think no one knows about.   Jungkook’s grinning from the thought.   Sungdeuk glances up at his god and smiles. “Your majesty, you must be quite fond of Lady Y/N.”   At once, Jungkook’s expression wipes. His mouth draws into a straight line as he looks down. “What makes you say that?”   “W-well, you were just mumbling her name and I just noticed that your….mood improves when she is present.”   “Are you trying to say my mood is bad when she isn’t?”   “N-no. That isn’t what I meant exactly,” his voice is quieting until it’s an incoherent mumble. “If I may speak out of line—”   “You may not.”   “Understood.” Sungdeuk shuts up.   But after an excruciating long silence, Jungkook slams down the parchment and waves his hand lifelessly. “Fine. What do you have to say, you nosy servant?”   He stays in a reverent posture with his head bowed. “I-I think Lady Y/N is quite pleasing. I’ve only held one or two conversations with her, but she is very bright and bold.”   “Yes, she is.”   “And it appears that she eases your worries. Her perspective on many issues is rather refreshing. Her mind is brilliant too. She...would make a fantastic ruler beside you, your majesty.”   “Did she put you up to this?” He mutters while flipping through the pages of a book on the table in front of him.   “No.”   “Then are you suggesting that I marry her? A mortal?” The god barks out laughter in his servant’s ignorant and irritating face. It’s an absurd proposition, outrageous even. “Do you know what that would do to my reputation? A mortal is not worth my time, not to mention the creation of an everlasting union, you idiot servant.”   Sungdeuk squeaks, nearly bursting into pathetic tears at the insult. “But if-if you love her….”   “I don’t love her,” Jungkook scoffs instinctively.    There’s silence.   More silence.   It’s agonizing, drawn out to be utterly suffocating. But the truth dawns upon his shoulders and it’s still there even after he tries shaking it off.    Jungkook feels himself go pale. His throat dries. Perspiration begins to drip from his hairline.    “S-Sungdeuk.”   “Yes, your majesty?”   “A glass of drinking water, please.”   “Of course, your majesty.”   It’s true that Jungkook’s taken a liking to you. He’s fond even. But it can’t go deeper than that. There’s a rebellion on the horizon that you’ve created and that hasn’t completely died down yet. He shouldn’t allow Seokjin to get a whiff of it lest he wants a scolding of a lifetime or to get called in front of the council which would be a disaster in itself. Then again, Seokjin’s the God of the Sun and probably knows everything anyways, maybe even Jungkook’s affection for you.   But his pride aside, it’s dangerous here. There are too many issues that you don’t know of, too many headaches around. To stay in the palace is one thing, but to be with him is another…   Jungkook’s in the middle of contemplation when there’s a sudden CRASH!   “What’s going on?” He throws the doors of your bedroom open and you’re stranded in the middle, hands in mid-air. His precious vase is broken on the ground, smashed into smithereens.   “Oops.” You have the audacity to smile and even look pretty doing it. “I swear I was just borrowing it.”   Jungkook sighs.   It’s dangerous when you’re around. You’re a hazard to yourself, to the palace, and to himself. He can’t focus on anything — you’re too distracting. Not to mention, he thinks he’s finally found something he’s afraid of. You. What you do to him.   And a Great God like him shouldn’t be afraid of anything. Which makes it even more frightening.   //   “Why’d you call me here?” You gaze around his throne room, the servants and guards, and the intimidating atmosphere that doesn’t make you particularly scared. “If you wanted to talk to me, you didn’t have to bring me here.”   He feigns exhaustion, massaging his temples with one hand and waving the other. He tries to knit his brows together. “I’m here to dismiss you from my court and tell you to go away.”   “Excuse me?”   “Your majesty!” Sungdeuk steps up, equally offended and shocked.   “Silence. I’ve made my decision.” Jungkook signals to your form halfheartedly. “Frankly, I’m sick and tired of you. So you can get your legs back, and get out of my ocean. You’re dirtying the waters.”   “You’re….making me leave?”   You’re appalled. It’s so sudden, out of nowhere. It’s what you wanted — to be granted back your freedom and legs — but when it’s presented to you on a silver platter, it seems crueler than it is merciful. And right when this place was becoming your new home….   “Must I repeat myself more than once, mortal?” Jungkook releases a staggering exhale. “You are hereby excommunicated from my kingdom on grounds of treason and blasphemy and because I’m tired of you. Don’t come back.”   A scoff befalls your lips. “No.”   “Excuse me?”   “You can’t make me leave.”   “Guards!” He shouts, yet no one moves or even flinches. All of them are simply staring straight ahead with their eyes shaking, but refusing to drag you out. They stand in silent defiance. “Guards!”   Sungdeuk shakes his head with a sigh, but the Water God pays no mind.   “I’m not going” — it’s your simple rebuttal before you leave, swimming away from his throne room.   “Wait! Y/N!” Jungkook stands up in frustration as if you’re the deity and he’s a consort begging for your attention. “Gods, does no one listen to me anymore?! Y/N!” He stumbles on the steps leading down his throne and chases after you to the outside.   His servants are at a complete loss, but he leaves them behind, running through the twisting corridors. Once you’re in reach again, Jungkook grabs your arm and pulls you back into his firm chest.    “Where do you think you’re going?”   “Nowhere.” You stand your ground and shove his hands off of you. “I’m going nowhere. I get to decide when I go or stay and—”   “And you want to stay?” he asks with an imploring look, perhaps knowing you better than you know yourself. “I thought you wanted to leave.”   “You can’t make me go just because you’re sick and tired of me—” You exhale in a shaking breath. “I just don’t get why. Why? I thought you wanted me to be in your kingdom for eternity. Why did you change your mind so suddenly? And right when I thought we…”   “We?”   “We were getting along,” you spit. “What’s the matter with you?”   He sighs and calms himself down to explain, “There’s a lot you don’t understand about Heaven, The Underworld, my own underwater kingdom. It’s not safe for a living mortal like you to be with me. It just isn’t, and it’s not like this place offers you anything. You’re meant to be sailing far away, on your ship The Dingy—”   “The Divinity,” you correctly softly.   A small smile spreads into his face. “You should be free, sailing across the sea, doing it is whatever you want to do. Listen to your god for once. And stop making it harder for me, mortal. I’m trying my best to be less greedy, alright?”   This isn’t the end. You know that for a fact.   If he’s the ruler of the ocean and you’re a traveler of it, the pair of you will constantly be near each other. You’re sure he’s aware of it too — but whether you like it or not, he still insists on using his authority to officially banish you from his kingdom. Of course, a god like him could never revoke a punishment given to a mortal. He has to find excuses. He has to send you off on a sour note.   He’s a stubborn mule. A bilge rat. You have reason to curse and damn him for the rest of your life now.   You’d sulk if not for your immense pride.    “Fine. I wanted my legs back anyways.”    It’s technically a victory. You knew he’d break at some point. The whole goal was to wear him down and get what you want. Though, it’s a lot more bittersweet than you thought was possible.    “But let me tell you something, Jungkook.” You tug him in roughly by the collar of his robes, whispering against his mouth, “Even if I’m on land again, you won’t be able to get rid of me.”   The God of the Sea grins, surprisingly boyish as he does so. “Yeah, yeah, I’m sure you’ll find ways to give me headaches and make me worry.”   You watch him carefully through narrowed eyes. “I wish you could be more honest with yourself.”   Before he can question your ambiguous desire, you seal his mouth with your own. It smacks roughly together and he’s caught off guard by your dominating touch before he quickly reciprocates. His lips are soft, cool against your own and it makes you nostalgic of the ocean breeze.   You return the favour he once gave to you when you first encountered him. Before you knew him, the world he existed in, and everything that led you to this moment. When all you were aware of was that you were thrown off board into the sea and someone saved you with a kiss.   After a handful of seconds, the both of you break apart and you glare into his eyes, never once backing down. “This isn’t the last you’ll see of me.”   Jungkook smiles, teeth showing, nose scrunching. You’ve learnt nothing. You’re still as arrogant as the first time he laid eyes on you. But somehow, he doesn’t mind much anymore if you want to share his title with him and call yourself the Goddess of the Sea.

The ocean turns lively at the sight of you.   It’s mischievous and playful, tides trying to tickle your toes, waves always splashing onto your face to tease. It’s not at all as fearsome as some ignorant folks make it out to be. It’s less daunting and mysterious than all the tales told on shores, the rumours that are whispered to children not to go near it during the night and to be careful lest the waters swallow them whole and take them to places unknown. They’re afraid but maybe it’s because they don’t have the privilege of knowing who rules beneath it, the bad-tempered idiot that is the God of the Sea.

“Captain! The crew’s ready to set sail.”   “Good. We’ll be heading east until dawn.”   “Aye-aye.”   You walk across the deck, feeling several eyes pinned on you. It’s no surprise they’re still stunned. To them, you’ve risen back from the dead, a corpse still walking and leading. You’ve long become more than a legendary pirate. There are whispers that you’re godly, rumours of immortality.   While you don’t outright reject the idea, you don’t dare confirm it out loud either to relish in the glory of your infamous name. Lest you want an angry visit from someone with raspberry-coloured hair and who smells like the ocean you hold close to your heart. He’s materialized enough times in your private cabin at night to scare you half to death….   Though sometimes, you miss him enough to purposely piss him off during the day.   “Ahoy.” A young boy with bright eyes and blushing cheeks stops the navigator. He pauses from scrubbing the deck. He’s new to the whole scene, mop still in his hand, bucket by his foot. “Are we really going tonight? Isn’t there a prediction of a storm?”   “Oh.” The navigator laughs mockingly. “You don’t have to worry about such a thing.”   “Why?” The new recruit watches the way you hop on the bowsprit without hesitation. You’re free-spirited, courageous. While the new pirate’s admiration is no secret, he wonders if those rumours were right.   Were you immortal?   “Our captain’s the Goddess of the Sea.” The experienced navigator beams with pride. “For some reason the waves always work with her — it’s almost as if the sea is protecting her.”   “Protecting her?”   He shrugs. “Ask ‘er if you’re really that curious. She’ll tell you some crazy stories. But believe it or not, she’s under the protection o’ some otherworldly folks.”   “And you believe her?” The newbie’s pupils flicker around and he harshly whispers, “You don’t think she’s gone….mad?”   He smirks, patting the young boy on the back. “You have a lot of things to learn here, seadog. You gotta see it for your eyes to believe it. But best you don’t go aroun’ speaking recklessly when you don’t know.”   The navigator walks off, leaving the other pirate utterly confused. Nevertheless, the ropes get pulled in, the anchor is lifted and The Divinity is slowly pushed out to the sea, beginning yet another expedition.   You man the main deck as your men and women continue their tasks at ease. You’re busy pacing around with your eyes on the horizon, pinned to what could be new lands and new treasure.   “The water’s look clear today, don’t they?”   “Y-Yes, they do, captain.” The new recruit is caught off guard that you’re speaking to him and vigorously nods.   You smile at him, passingly reminded of Sungdeuk and hoping that the servant is bumbling less these days. You peer down to the waves created by the force of The Divinity moving. “Looks warm too. Think it would be good for a swim?”   He frowns. “A swim? Wh— Captain!”   The pirate screams bloody murder as you jump ship, diving straight in at a perfect arch. He leans to look over the edge, searching the waters. He doesn’t see you, but he hears your crazy laughter and concludes that yes….you are absolutely insane, and now he’s trapped on a boat with you as the leader…...   He doesn’t notice that when you go under, someone’s arms are instantly wrapped around your waist and they’re hastily pressing their mouths to yours, giving you air before you drown.    You kiss Jungkook back deeply, inhaling as he exhales, greedily probing your tongue past the seams of his soft lips. When the two of you break apart, your giggles make air bubbles rise to the surface.   He clicks his tongue in feigned annoyance. “Brat.”   The ocean’s your favourite place. The scent of salt, sight of blue have been imprinted into memory. It’s filled with endless possible voyages, and there you’d always find Jungkook.