#its the venture curse i'm telling you

[postaldouche]

continuing off of my last posts!!! s2, ep10 (gotta mention it bc ik some people don't find these in order, and also bc i like doing it teehee teehee) WE FINALLY GET TO SEE THE BOYS to my memory - think dean is learning how to drive here :3 but to be completely honest with you guys i think they just went "CAN WE GO PLAY WITH THE CAR" and brock went "fuck it go do whatever just be careful" and set up a course for them lelz

dean is so careful and hank is so excitable.. like calm down omg he was literally STRESSINGGGGG over them not going fast enough WITHIN the compound ( , ; - ;) but i DO think it's cute that he even stuck around to keep dean company in the car. most likely just because he wants to be with his brother, which is sweet. (also bc brock probs told them to stay together I KNOWWW but like cmon he also just likes being with dean)

*relaxes MOMENTS after freaking his brother out* he's such a horrid little boy i love him i can see why fri liked this guy so much. he's really such a twat for no reason at all sometimes.

oh and they spot some some sort of weird crashed car on the property and decide to approach it "ok mister handbook - so what do we do?" i don't think hank actually meant for him to pull out the handbook but dean is dean adhd vs autism always

hank makes a move to exit the car but Dean goes "WAITTTTT"

"k-turn :) beep! beep! beep! beep! beep! (^o^)" he's so whimsical. like very.

and hank is just so anime boy-girl-thing-creature-whatever coded i really like silly hank faces

(panic) "𝘼𝙃 !! Hank! ROLL, HANK! TUCK AND ROLL! PROTECT YOUR LIMBS! (ゞ◎Д◎ヾ) !!!"

"will you 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗻- ??" he's so exasperated with him it's really cute

GOOD LORDDDD (i think it's really funny whenever you can tell that someone on the team (most likely doc hammer) REALLY enjoyed drawing the chicks in an ep)

yaaay myra time i love myra sm like yes she's crazy but tbh most of what comes out of her mouth is pretty believable (MOST. not all. AND I'M SPECIFICALLY TALKING ABOUT HER AND VENTURE NOT ANYTHING ELSE) especially since when put up against rusty's wording it's "unreliable narrator bc insane vs unreliable narrator bc always lies ab other things"

mimir </3

TWO mimir </33

[honeydewblogforwriting]

The Wolff Pack (Mr. and Mrs. Wolff pt.2)

Warnings: innuendos, cursing, bad grammar, poorly translated German

Pt.1

Sunday (race day) :

Monday night:

Two weeks later

Y/N: Hello GQ. I'm Y/N YM/N Wolff

Toto: and I'm Toto Wolff

Y/N: you mean Torger Christian Wolff. We're using our government names today, babe. No nicknames.

Toto: y/n, please.

Y/N (giggling) : okay, okay. I'm sorry, you guys can cut that part out.

Y/N and Toto: and today we'll be doing the GQ's couple quiz to see how well we know each other.

Producer: who's going first?

Toto: Y/N is always first in my life so her.

Y/N: awww, he's trying to butter me up incase he gets anything wrong!

[Toto shakes his head]

Y/N: Okay first question. When did we first meet?

Toto: At the 2018 Austin GP

Y/N: ehhh wrong answer forehead!

Toto: schatz, I'm right. You were invited by Ferrari and you had on their merchandise and a beautiful red jacket and your hair was down. You were passing by Mercedes Hospitality and we smiled at each other and you gave me a tiny wave.

Y/N: babe... what? I- wait, its coming back to me now. What how did you remember that?

Toto: How could I forget? You looked absolutely radiant in that hideous ferrari red, a hard feat to pull off.

Y/N: (giggling) awww. Give him two points for this one. Okay, next question: what is my favourite look on you?

Toto: mein Geburtstagsanzug

[Subtitle: my birthday suit]

Y/N: benehmen

[Subtitle: behave]

Toto: okay, serious answer now. You love me in a good button down, pleated pants and my glasses.

Y/N: yes, I could literally eat you up when you wear that.

Toto: and you're telling me to behave?

Y/N: babe, you're worse than me but anyways! Next question, what is my go to soda order?

Toto: this has to be a trick question because you don't drink soda. You only indulge in green juices and smoothies. Your favourite is a kale, spinach and beet smoothie with almond milk and peanut butter.

Y/N: you're correct once again! He knows me so well guys. I know this was a few years ago but what was the song that i constantly sang after we got engaged? (laughing)

Toto: (shakes head while chuckling) It was so awful and unexpected that it's stuck with me and sometimes (unfortunately) plays in my head. It went something like, "put it on him make him wanna marry me." And you'd sing it while flaunting your ring and body rolling.

Y/N: yes, right on the nose! Okay, so what is my ideal type of man?

Toto: derjenige, der dich zur Mutter gemacht hat, meine Liebe

[Subtitle: the one who made you a mom, my love.]

Y/N: correct again! Babe, you're on fire! And every correct answer makes you hotter and hotter...Baby Nummer zwei könnte früher kommen als geplant

[Subtitle: baby number 2 might come sooner than we planned].

Toto: schatz, do not make jokes like that, you know what I want.

Y/N: I'm not joking.

[silence on set as the camera switches between y/n and Toto who are locked in intense eye contact]

[Producer behind the scene]: um guys

Y/N: oh sorry, um, next question- what was the first foreign language I learned in high school?

Toto: Spanish and then you did French and finally Portuguese but you're more inclined to Portuguese. You're currently learning German.

Y/N: correct, the perks of attending a private school. And,  to those of you viewing at home, I'm learning German because Torger refuses to speak to baby girl in English! He swears that she has to know German just as fluently as English and I don't want to be left out so I'm indulging in it.

Y/N: Okay, final question- what is my favourite thing to do?

Toto: well, it's definitely trying new things. You love to try different hobbies, crafts, sports, business ventures, careers and it's admirable, you just go after what you want even if it's something you know nothing about. Also you love spending time with die Prinzessin .

Y/N: correct again, Torger Christian Wolff, you got everything right, now that is stinking cute.

[TOTO WOLFF QUIZZES Y/N WOLFF]

Toto: Okay, schatz, first question- when is my birthday?

Y/N: is this a trick question? Your birthday is January 12. You were born in 1972 in Vienna, Austria to a Middle class family and your education was focused towards finance and economics because of the family you grew up in.

Toto: (laughing) schatz, you might as well let the people know my blood type, that was a lot of details but all true. I'll give you 4 points for this. Okay, next question. What is my favourite snack?

Y/N: me of course!

Toto: you'd be my favourite meal, schatz

Y/N: oop, okay! Let me get serious though, your favourite snack is Kumpir with Sauerkraut Filling and Pumpernickel Crumble. You ate so much of it on our honeymoon that it made you sick. I'm surprised you still like it (giggling).

Toto: Where is my favourite place to be?

Y/N: okay I'm giving two answers for this one-  first, it's anywhere that Prinzessin and I are and second, at home it used to be in our room but now it's Prinzessin's room. Torger would spend all day there if he could.

Toto: mhmm, I'm actually surprised that your answer was PG but correct again beautiful. Next question, what is my biggest priority?

Y/N: family, I know this might seem like a surprise to the viewers but you have never missed an anniversary, hospital visit, birthing class, date night, family reunion, birthday celebration or anything of the sort. I don't know how you do it but that it's so clear to see that your loved ones are your number priority .

Toto: How would I describe myself ? Like how do I view myself ?

Y/N: mhm this is tough, I think you consider yourself as someone who is constantly evolving whether that's in your personal life or your career. You're driven and goal oriented. You've got that aggressive streak that the Internet loves to make memes of but uh, yeah. How'd I do?

Toto: pretty spot on. It's like you know me better than I know myself. Okay, final question, what is the name of our sweet little angel ?

Y/N: yup, you heard that right, for the first time ever we will be revealing the name of our baby girl. We thought it would be perfect to announce it during something so fun and sweet. Anyways enough of the chit chat.

Y/N and Toto: (turns to look at each other, grabs each other hands) we'd like to formally introduce the world to Myah Sunshine Wolff!

Y/N: it was so nice being here and I'd like to thank GQ for inviting us onto their wonderful platform.

Toto: I hope you guys enjoy watching this as much as we enjoyed making this. Bye!

(Both of them wave until the screen goes black)

A few hours after the video is released :

[ya-zz]

Ram, venture, & genji jealousy hcs? Maybe some comfort from the reader >_<

RAMATTRA

His hand would twitch whenever he saw you with another person.

Maybe his sensors were in a fritz, but he saw the way they looked at you.

Ramattra would grab your hand and pull you away, walking somewhere else, as far away from whoever you were speaking to.

He'd make his feels known, of course.

"I do not like you being with them."

Or "They are not to come here anymore."

It took a few pulls before you realised that he was jealous, but you didn't want to make that worse.

You listened to his concerns, setting up boundaries and reassuring him.

"I want you and only you." It was his favourite string of words you've said.

He'd repeat it in his head as often as he could, a reminder that you were still his.

VENTURE

They were completely oblivious at first, not even realising their own feelings.

But that changed when someone got too close.

Sloan got up close and personal, a defensive stance and hard words, a complete change from who they usually were.

"Back off."

"Stay away."

You had to pull them away to calm them down, cupping their cheeks in your hand.

Trying to snap the glare out of their eyes was a challenge in itself.

You've never seen them so pissed off before.

"I don't want you hanging out with them."

You knew the signs, seeing the jealousy, hearing the jealousy.

With a nod and a soft smile, you agree, taking their hand.

Sloan was confused as to why you agreed so easily, but they figured that was a conversation for another day.

They treated you to ice cream as an apology for their actions, though they seemed more delighted to have the icy delight...

GENJI

Genji would be by your side no matter where you went.

The moment someone looked at you in a way that he didn't like, he would scowl and pull you away.

Sometimes, depending on the look of the person staring, he would shout, confronting them regarding their intentions.

It made you feel... somewhat safe.

He was like your own personal guard dog at times.

When they odd time came when he wasn't by your side, you would tell him about you day.

The mere mention of someone looking would send Genji into a small fit of anger. Not rage. Just anger. His brow would furrow, a slight scowl, but it was quick to fade as it came.

He knew that he was jealous, has been told it all his life.

Being the younger brother of the Shimada had its curses.

"Trust me, Genji. I'm not going anywhere."

You would reassure him time and time again and he always believed you, but there was that little feeling at the back of his mind that couldn't let go of the jealousy.

[2millu2]

The Bakery and The Beauty - Sanji Vinsmoke

ఌft. Sanji and Baker fem reader

WC. 4.6k

Warning: Smut, PwP, Baker, blood mentioned, Sanji being Sanji, penetration, dry humping, nipple play, fluff smut and fluff at the end, nipple play, oral (female and male receiving), fluffy, cursing, Virgin Sanji

AN: I know it didn’t win the poll but I had a great idea for a Sanji story 😜😜

The Thousand Sunny docked at the shores of Ember's Glow Isle, a lush tropical paradise that promised adventure and bounty. Nami, ever the navigator with an eye for treasure, had suggested this detour, and Luffy, their enthusiastic captain, readily agreed, lured by the prospect of uncovering hidden riches.

As the Straw Hat crew disembarked, Luffy's infectious energy was palpable. "Alright, guys! Let's split up and explore this place. Whoever finds the coolest treasure wins!"

Sanji found himself reluctantly paired with Zoro, much to his chagrin. He had hoped to accompany the lovely Nami, but fate had other plans. Nonetheless, he put on a brave face, determined to make the most of the situation.

"Of all the rotten luck," Sanji grumbled, his heart yearning to be by Nami's side instead of the moss-headed swordsman.

Zoro scoffed, unfazed by Sanji's complaints. "Just stay out of my way, love-cook."

As they ventured into the island's interior, their banter continued, a familiar dance of insults and jabs. However, their paths soon diverged, with Zoro inexplicably veering off into the dense forest while Sanji found himself drawn to a quaint town.

"Seriously, moss-head, how can you get lost when I'm right here?" Sanji huffed, exasperated and taking a puff of his cigarette.

But relieved to be free of Zoro's company, welcomed the solitude. "Well at least I get some peace and quiet," he muttered, adjusting the tie on his suit.

the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air. He inhaled deeply, his culinary senses tingling with delight. Following the tantalizingly sweet scent, he soon discovered a cozy bakery, its warm and inviting atmosphere beckoning him inside

The bell above the door tinkled as Sanji entered, greeted by an empty shop bathed in the warm scent of freshly baked goods. Before he could fully take in his surroundings, a sweet voice cut through the silence.

"Welcome to my shop," you said, a warm smile gracing your features.

Sanji's heart skipped a beat, his eyes immediately transforming into throbbing hearts. In a blur of movement, he rushed toward you, stars dancing in his vision. "My beautiful goddess!" he exclaimed, his voice dripping with adoration. "Such a talented woman to own a shop as divine as this!"

Taken aback by his fervent display, you managed a bashful chuckle. "Why, thank you. You're quite the charmer."

Sanji's nosebleed erupted, crimson droplets speckling the floor as concern etched itself across your features. "Are you alright?"

Waving a dismissive hand and taking a tissue from his pocket, Sanji gazed at you adoringly. "A vision like yourself should never worry over a mere mortal like me." His eyes sparkled with renewed intensity as he clasped your hands in his. "But pray tell, what is the name of this radiant goddess before me?"

A rosy blush crept across your cheeks as you introduced yourself. "Y/N."

Sanji's body whirled in a dizzying spiral, his heart practically leaping from his chest. "Y/N! Such a beautiful name befitting an angel like yourself!"

Your laughter tinkled like wind chimes, amused by his over-the-top antics. Sanji felt the hearts in his eyes pulsate faster.

Regaining his composure, he gestured toward the display case. "What would you recommend for a humble traveler such as myself, my sweet?" His gaze remained fixated on you, taking in your every movement.

"Would you like to watch me prepare something special?" you offered, your smile widening at his enthusiastic nod.

As you led him toward the kitchen, Sanji raced ahead, throwing open the door for you. "After you, m'lady," he said, bowing deeply.

You giggled at his chivalrous display. "Such a gentleman."

Sanji straightened, his chest puffing out with pride and taking a puff of his cigarette. "All men should treat a lady with the utmost respect and courtesy."

Your respect for him grew, charmed by his old-fashioned manners and sincere reverence.

In the kitchen, you announced your intention to create the Gâteau Saint-Honoré, a dessert renowned for its complexity and elegance.

Sanji's visible eye widened, his respect for your skills soaring. "That's one of the most challenging desserts to master. I've only attempted it twice myself."

Intrigued, you inquired about his culinary expertise, and Sanji launched into a passionate explanation of his dream – to find the legendary All Blue, a mythical sea where all the world's waters converged.

Your eyes sparkled with wonder at the sheer romance of his ambition. "That's a beautiful dream," you breathed. "I'd love to see the All Blue someday."

Sanji's heart threatened to burst from his chest as he gazed at you with utter devotion. "Then allow me, my goddess, to be your guide on that journey. I would protect you from any harm that dared to cross our path."

Flustered yet touched by his offer, you thanked him, inwardly wondering if this charismatic stranger could truly make such promises.

As you began gathering the ingredients for the Gâteau Saint-Honoré, you seized the opportunity to learn more about Sanji's skills. "Since you're familiar with this dessert, would you care to assist me?"

Sanji's visible eye transformed into a heart, his entire being radiating bliss. "It would be my honor, Y/N-swan!"

The kitchen filled with an air of comfortable warmth as you and Sanji began the intricate process of crafting the Gâteau Saint-Honoré. Your movements were practiced and precise, a testament to years of culinary experience.

As you worked side by side, measuring ingredients and preparing the various components, you shared snippets of your life story with Sanji. "My mother was an incredible cook," you reminisced, a wistful smile tugging at your lips. "From a young age, she instilled in me a deep appreciation for the art of cuisine."

Sanji listened intently, his visible eye trained on your every move, captivated not only by your skill but by the soothing cadence of your voice. The frantic energy that had consumed him upon first laying eyes on you had dissipated, replaced by a sense of calm as he lost himself in the rhythmic dance of your culinary ballet.

"Mother taught me everything she knew," you continued, deftly whisking a mixture of sugar and egg yolks into a velvety ribbon. "She believed that cooking was more than just nourishment – it was a way to bring joy and comfort to those we love."

Sanji nodded, his heart swelling with empathy. He understood that sentiment all too well, for it was the driving force behind his own culinary aspirations. To him, cooking was an act of pure love, a means of expressing his devotion to those he cherished.

"As I grew older, I discovered my true passion lay in the art of baking," you confessed, a hint of pride coloring your tone. "There's something magical about the way simple ingredients can transform into decadent confections, each bite a journey of flavors and textures."

Sanji watched, transfixed, as you piped delicate rings of choux pastry onto a baking sheet, your movements fluid and graceful. He could sense the deep reverence you held for your craft, and it resonated with his own unwavering dedication to the culinary arts.

"I can see the passion in your eyes, Y/N-swan," he murmured, his voice reverent. "It's a privilege to witness a true master at work."

You blushed at his earnest compliment, unused to such effusive praise. Yet, there was a sincerity in Sanji's gaze that put you at ease, a kindred spirit who understood the depths of your devotion.

As you continued to work in tandem, the rhythmic clanging of bowls and whisks punctuated your conversation, creating a symphony of culinary harmony. Sanji found himself utterly entranced, not just by the delectable aromas wafting through the air, but by the serene confidence with which you wielded your tools.

Sanji's heart swelled with a newfound appreciation for the women he had unexpectedly discovered in this quaint town on Ember's Glow Isle.

With a mischievous glint in your eye, you dipped your fingers into the flour and bopped Sanji's nose, leaving a dusting of white powder on his face.

Sanji's visible eye widened in surprise before crinkling with laughter. "Oh, you're asking for it now, my dear," he chuckled, retaliating by tapping a flour-coated finger against the tip of your nose.

What began as a harmless exchange quickly escalated into a full-blown flour fight, the two of you giggling like children as you tossed handfuls of flour at each other. The air became thick with the fine white particles, coating your hair and clothes in a fine layer of flour.

In the midst of the playful chaos, your foot caught on a stray bowl, sending you stumbling forward. Sanji's reflexes were lightning-fast, his arms shooting out to catch you before you could hit the floor.

The sudden momentum caused you both to tumble, your bodies crashing together in a tangle of limbs as you landed on the kitchen tiles with a soft thud. Laughter spilled from your lips, the absurdity of the situation striking you in that moment.

As the laughter subsided, you became acutely aware of Sanji's proximity. His muscular frame hovered over you, his knee nestled between your legs, and your faces were mere inches apart. A flush crept across both your cheeks as the intimate position dawned on you.

"S-Sorry," Sanji stammered, his visible eye averted as he made to extricate himself from your embrace.

Before he could move, your hand shot out, fingers curling around his tie as you tugged him back towards you. In a bold move fueled by the heated chemistry crackling between you, you closed the distance and pressed your lips against his.

Sanji's body went rigid with shock, his visible eye widening as a torrent of emotions washed over him. For a brief moment, he felt himself going to nosebleed, the temptation to lose himself in the ecstasy of your kiss threatening to overwhelm him.

With a strong effort, he reined in his desire, determined not to ruin your beautiful face with blood. His hand found purchase on your waist, pulling you against him as he surrendered to the kiss, his lips moving in a passionate dance with yours.

The world around you faded away, the scent of flour and sugar mingling with the intoxicating aroma of desire. In that moment, nothing else mattered but the searing connection shared between two kindred spirits, bound by a love for the culinary arts and an undeniable attraction that had blossomed in the heat of the kitchen.

As your lips parted, breathless and flushed, Sanji's gaze locked with yours, a silent understanding passing between you. Words were unnecessary; the language of your bodies spoke volumes, conveying a depth of emotion that transcended mere speech.

With a tenderness, Sanji brushed a stray lock of flour-dusted hair from your face. "Y/N," he murmured, his voice thick with reverence and longing.

Sanji's lips crashed against yours once more, the kiss fueled by a burning desire that had been simmering beneath the surface. This time, the kiss was heated, passionate – a desperate need to express the depth of his longing for your touch.

Your hands moved with purpose, fingers deftly undoing the buttons of his suit jacket. With a smooth motion, you parted the fabric, revealing the crisp yellow button-up shirt hugging his toned frame. Emboldened by the intensity of the moment, you began to caress his body through the thin material, tracing the contours of his muscular build with eager hands.

A low, guttural moan rumbled from Sanji's throat, the sound muffled by the fervent press of your lips against his. He wanted you to know, to feel the effect your touch had on him, the way your caresses ignited a fire within him that threatened to consume his very being.

Encouraged by his vocal response, you deepened the kiss, your tongue boldly seeking entry past his parted lips. Sanji eagerly obliged, engaging in a sensual dance of tangled tongues and heated breaths, the taste of flour and desire mingling in an intoxicating symphony.

Your hands continued their exploration, fingers raking across the defined planes of his chest and abdomen, reveling in the solid strength concealed beneath the thin fabric. Each touch, each caress, elicited a shudder of pleasure from Sanji, his body responding to your ministrations as his cock begin straining against his pants.

"Y/N," he rasped, his voice thick with want, as your lips briefly parted for air. "The things you do to me, my goddess."

His visible eye glazed over with raw desire, a silent plea for you to continue your torturous assault on his senses. Sanji's hands found your waist, pulling you against him, allowing you to feel the undeniable evidence of his arousal pressing insistently against your core.

The scent of desire hung thick in the air, mingling with the lingering aromas of baked goods.

Without hesitation, you parted your legs, wrapping them around Sanji's waist and pulling him closer, pressing his evident arousal against your core. A breathless gasp escaped his lips as he felt the delicious friction, his visible eye darkening with unadulterated want.

Sanji's gaze swept over you, drinking in the sight of your flushed cheeks and kiss-swollen lips. "Y/N," he rasped, his voice thick with longing. "May I...?" His fingers traced the hem of your shirt, a silent request for permission to undress you.

You nodded, emboldened by the intensity of the moment, and Sanji wasted no time removing you of your shirt. As the fabric slipped away, revealing the lacy crimson bra that hugged your breast, Sanji's breath caught in his throat. His visible eye roamed over your clad breast, drinking in the sight.

Sanji's hands go to your thighs, lifting you effortlessly from the floor and sitting you on the countertop. Instinctively, your legs wound around his waist once more, drawing him impossibly closer as you grind your core against the hard length straining against his trousers.

A low groan rumbled from deep within Sanji's chest, his hands roaming over the swell of your breasts, kneading the firm flesh through the lacy barrier of your bra. The friction between your bodies intensified, as he pushed his bulge harder against core bumping your clit each time making you moan against his neck and he continues kneading your clad breast while kissing your neck the delicious friction stoking the flames of desire that threatened to consume you both.

Your fingers fumbled with the button and zipper of Sanji's pants, desperate to free his throbbing length from its confines. Just as you began to tug the fabric down, a shrill wailing pierced the air – the smoke alarm, triggered by the forgotten pastry in the oven.

Startled from your passionate haze, you both turned to see plumes of smoke billowing from the oven's interior. With a shared gasp, you leapt into action, Sanji rushing to yank open the oven door as you grabbed a towel to wave away the acrid smoke.

Your efforts revealed the charred remains of the Gâteau Saint-Honoré, reduced to a blackened, inedible husk. As the smoke cleared and the alarm fell silent, you couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation.

"Well, I suppose we got a little... distracted," you quipped, shooting Sanji a playful grin.

Sanji's laughter mingled with yours, the tension dissipating as he swept the ruined pastry into the trash. "It seems our great masterpiece didn't quite survive our heated encounter, my dear."

As your amusement subsided, your gaze inevitably drifted downward, taking in the prominent bulge still tenting the front of Sanji's trousers. A wicked gleam flickered in your eyes as you move from the oven, to him sinking to your knees before him.

"Just because our dessert didn't pan out," you purred, your fingers trailing up the length of his thighs, "doesn't mean we can't have our just desserts." Sanji's visible eye widened, his cock twitching in anticipation as your fingers pull down his pants.

Your fingers hooked into the waistband of his trousers, deftly tugging them down to mid-thigh, freeing his throbbing length from its confines. Sanji's cock sprang forth, rigid and flushed, the thick veins pulsing with his arousal. A bead of precum glistened on the swollen tip, a testament to the intense desire coursing through his veins.

"Y/N..." Sanji's voice was a low, gravelly murmur, his visible eye dark with lust as he watched you appraise his impressive manhood. Despite his reputation as a shameless flirt, this was uncharted territory for the young chef – a virgin, untouched by the pleasures of the flesh.

You sensed his nervousness, offering a reassuring smile before trailing a series of featherlight kisses along the veins of his cock. Sanji's breath hitched, his muscles tensing as jolts of pleasure rippled through him.

With a slow pace, you worked your way up to the swollen tip, flicking your tongue out to taste the salty essence beading there. A guttural groan rumbled from deep within Sanji's chest, his body trembling with the effort to remain still.

Encourage by his vocal responses, you parted your lips, enveloping the velvety head of his cock with the moist heat of your mouth. Sanji's knees nearly buckled, his hands shooting out to brace himself against the countertop as a strangled cry tore from his throat.

"Oh,fuck..." he rasped, his visible eye squeezed shut as he surrendered to the exquisite sensation of your warm, wet mouth enveloping him.

You hummed around his length, savoring the salty taste as you gradually took more of him into your mouth. Inch by delicious inch, you worked your way down his shaft, your cheeks hollowing with each languid stroke.

Sanji's hands tangled in your hair, his fingers threading through the silky strands as he fought the urge to thrust deeper into the heavenly warmth of your mouth. his mind consumed by the euphoric sensations sparked by your talented mouth.

With each bob of your head, you took him deeper, your tongue swirling around his moly cock as you pay attention on the sensitive underside. Sanji's body trembled, his knuckles white from gripping the countertop, his thighs quivering with the effort of remaining upright.

"Y/N... oh god..." he groaned, his voice thick and strained. "If you don't stop, I'm going to..."

His warning trailed off into a moan as you redoubled your efforts, hollowing your cheeks and increasing the suction. Sanji's control unravelled, his hips bucking involuntarily as his cock slid deeper into the your mouth sliding down your throat.

With a cry, Sanji's body went limp, his eyes screwing shut as he reached the peak of his pleasure. Thick ropes of his cum erupted from his cock, coating your tongue with his salty essence.

You swallowed reflexively, relishing the in taste as you milked him through his climax. Sanji's body shuddered, his breaths ragged as wave after wave of blissful release crashed over him.

As the last tremors of his orgasm subsided, Sanji's visible eye fluttered open, glazed with the afterglow of his pleasure. His chest heaved, his golden hair tousled and damp he gazed down at you with a look of reverent awe.

Words failed him as he struggled to find the words to describe the euphoric experience you had just bestowed upon him.

Rising to your feet, you closed the distance between you, your fingers tangling in the fabric of his shirt as you pulled him into a searing kiss. Sanji moaned against your lips, tasting himself on your tongue as his arms encircled your waist, crushing you against his frame.

"We're not done yet, my dear," he murmured, his delicious voice that goes down to your very core. "It's your turn."

he pinned you against the nearest wall, his hands roaming over the curves of your body with an urgency fueled by raw, primal need.

"I can't wait any longer," he rasped, his voice thick with want as his fingers undid the clasp of your bra, freeing your breasts from their lacy confines. "I need to feel you... all of you."

His lips crashed against yours in a searing kiss, your tongue tangling with yours as his palms kneaded the soft flesh of your breasts. You arched into his touch, a breathy moan escaping your lips as he rolled your nipples between his fingertips.

Sanji's mouth blazed a scorching trail along the column of your throat, his teeth grazing your pulse point before venturing lower. His lips found the swell of your breast, tongue flicking out to tease your hard nipple as his hands kneaded your other breast pinching the hard bud.

"Sanji..." you whimpered, your fingers tangling in his golden lock as his ministrations stoked the flames of desire burning within you.

he removes the rest of your clothing, leaving you naked before his gaze. Sanji drank in the sight of your nude form, his visible eye darkening with a primal hunger that threatened to consume him whole.

"Beautiful," he murmured reverently, his fingers ghosting over your skin. "Absolutely divine."

In one motion, he lifted you onto the countertop, his hands gripping your thighs as he parted your legs, revealing your glistening core to his hungry stare. You flushed under his intense stare, your teeth sinking into your lower lip as desire coiled tight within you.

Sanji's tongue darted out, tracing the arousal of your slick folds with a stroke that elicited a sharp cry from your lips. He hummed in approval, savoring the tangy essence of your arousal as he repeated the tortuously slow caress.

"So wet for me, my goddess," he purred, his fingers dipping between your folds to tease your throbbing bud. "Tell me what you desire."

Your back arched, a strangled moan spilling from your lips as he circled your swollen clit with skillful strokes. "You..." you whimpered, your fingers tangling in his hair as you guided his mouth to your dripping core. "I need you, Sanji... all of you."

A whine rumbled in Sanji's throat as he angled his face between your thighs, his tongue delving into your velvet heat with searing strokes. You cried out, your thighs clamping around his head as he lapped at your slick folds, savoring your intoxicating flavor.

His fingers joined the sensual assault, plunging into your cunt as his tongue focused its attention on your throbbing bud. You squirmed beneath his ministrations, your walls fluttering around his digits as he drove you relentlessly toward the brink of ecstasy.

Just as the coil of pleasure threatened to reach its precipice, Sanji withdrew, his face glistening with the evidence of your arousal. You whimpered at the loss, your hips bucking in a silent plea for him to continue.

Sanji's visible eye burned with raw hunger as he rose to his full height, his hands gripping your thighs as he positioned the swollen head of his cock against your dripping entrance.

"Are you ready, my love?" he rasped, his voice strained with the effort of restraining his primal urges.

You nodded fervently, your legs winding around his waist as you angled your hips, silently beckoning him to claim you. Sanji's breath caught in his throat as the swollen tip of his cock parted your slick folds, the velvety heat of your core enveloping him inch by delicious inch.

A groan tore from his lips as he pushed his cock within your tight, cunt, The sensation was utterly euphoric, your walls gripping him in a snug, silken embrace that threatened to unravel his carefully maintained control.

"So tight..." Sanji rasped, his breath coming in ragged pants as he savored the exquisite sensation of being inside you.

You clung to him, your nails raking down f his back as you adjusted to the delicious fullness of him filling you with his cock. With a subtle roll of your hips, you urged him to move, your walls clenching around his throbbing length in a silent plea.

Sanji groaned, his hips withdrawing in a slow, torturous glide before surging forward, burying himself within your depths once more. A litany of curses spilled from his lips as he set a fast pace, his cock pistoning into your tight, velvet heat with each powerful thrust.

The slap of flesh against flesh echoed through the kitchen, mingling with your breathless cries of pleasure as Sanji claimed thrusting his cock inside your aching core feeling the vein of his cock brushing against your walls . His hands gripped your hips, his fingers digging into your flesh as he used the leverage to drive deeper, his thick length stretching you deliciously with each thrust.

"Touch yourself," he growled, his voice sending pleasure straight to your core as he angled his hips, allowing his long cock to graze clit with each thrust. "I want to feel you come undone around me."

Obeying his demand, your fingers sought out the swollen bud of your clit, circling the throbbing nub in time with the rhythm of his thrusts. Sanji's lips crashed against yours, swallowing your cries of moans as the coil of pleasure tightened within you, rapidly spiraling toward your peak.

Your walls fluttered around his length, Sanji's thrusts became erratic, his entire frame tensing as your walls clenched around him milking his aching cock as you cum, dragging him over the edge alongside you.

Sanji buried himself to the hilt, his cum erupting in thick, ropes as he poured his essence deep into your quivering core. Your name tumbled from his lips in a breathless litany, his body shuddering as he surrendered to the intensity of his climax.

Spent and breathless, Sanji slumped against you, his arms encircling your waist as he cradled you against his heaving chest

"That was..." Sanji's voice trailed off, his lips curving into a blissful smile as he nuzzled against the crook of your neck.

"Incredible," you finished for him, pressing a tender kiss to his curly brow. Sanji hummed in agreement, he held you close, his arms wrapped securely around your waist as he basked in the warmth of your embrace.

After a few moments of contented silence, he drew back slightly, his visible eye locking with yours. There was a vulnerability in his gaze,.

"Y/N," he began, his voice low and tinged with a note of uncertainty. "What we shared here..." He paused, swallowing hard before continuing. "It wasn't just a one time thing for me. You've awoken something within me, it was the first time I felt like this with a women."

You remained silent, your fingers gently caressing his cheek as you waited for him to gather his thoughts.

"I know it may seem sudden, but..." Sanji took a deep, steadying breath. "Would you consider joining me on my quest to find the All Blue? To sail the seas by my side, exploring the culinary wonders of the world together?"

His visible eye searched yours, equal parts hope and apprehension flickering in their depths. "You've ignited a passion in me that burns brighter than any flame in this oven, and I can't bear the thought of pursuing my dreams without you by my side."

A soft smile curved your lips as you leaned in, capturing his mouth in a tender kiss. When you parted, your gaze was filled with a warm affection that set Sanji's heart aflutter.

"There's nothing I'd love more than to embark on that adventure with you, Sanji," you murmured, your fingers tangling in the soft strands of his golden hair. "The All Blue awaits, and I can't imagine a more perfect partner to share in its wonders."

Relief washed over Sanji's features, his lips curving into a brilliant smile as he pulled you flush against him, reveling in the warmth of your body pressed against his own. In that moment, you would chase the dream of the All Blue, embarking on a journey that would etch your names into the annals of culinary legend.

[hyperfixationsporfavor]

The Secret Garden (Sukuna x Reader)

Author's Note: Hey guys. In honor of the final chapter being released I'm sharing this fic I wrote awhile ago. It's just taken me a bit to edit. I hope to keep writing jjk fics even if the series is over. Thoughts and feeling are always appreciated. Enjoy!

Warnings: character death, implied character death, jjk manga spoilers, true form sukuna

“I am a curse.”

“I am an unwanted child.”

Unwanted?

~

Sukuna watched from a distance as you tended to your garden, something you had cultivated during your time in his temple. Uraume stood dutifully behind him as he continued to observe from the shadows. 

“Perhaps you’d like to join her, my lord?”

“Are you attempting to give me orders Uraume?”

The white haired vassal bowed their head, the faintest smirk on their face hidden from view. “My apologies, my lord. I’d be remiss if I didn’t remind you of your meeting with Lady Tengen. She’s awaiting your presence in the throne room.”

“Tell her I’ll be there in a moment…and wipe that damn look off your face.”

They bowed again and promptly dismissed themself. 

Sukuna turned his attention back to the garden to find you hovering over a small shrub. He ventured towards you with a budding curiosity. 

It really was magnificent what you were able to accomplish in the year that you had started this project. 

The once desolate space of dead branches and unkempt dirt had been transformed into a collection of flowers, herbs, and vegetables all surrounding a small pond. It was vibrant and inviting, rejuvenated by the care you gave it. 

Sukuna closed the gap between you and you turned around with a start. With a hand on your chest you exhaled in relief. 

“You gave me a fright,” you sighed. “I thought you were supposed to be meeting with your former teacher today.”

Sukuna crossed both sets of his arms. “She’ll wait.”

This was unfamiliar to the proclaimed King of Curses. Having interests in what lowly non sorcerers like you did. And yet here he was drawn to you, your warm presence and kind smile.

“What are you doing?” he asked. “ You don’t usually come out here this time of day.”

You smiled at him, causing a feeling to pool through his chest.

“I didn’t realize you kept such a close eye on me, Lord Sukuna.”

Before he could scold you for your cheekiness you gestured back to your shrub. 

“It seems we have a visitor.”

A small slug had latched itself onto a singular leaf. Sukuna wrinkled his nose. “Have Uraume get some salt. That should kill it.”

You shook your head. 

Instead, you plucked the leaf off the shrub and walked towards a bush in the corner of the garden, the master of the temple trailing after you. The leaves had withered into a dull brown. You gently transferred the slug onto one of the dying leaves. The creature slithered around its new home. 

“Why not just kill it?” he asked.

You turned your attention back to Sukuna. “Because it has a place here.”

“To do what? Destroy what you’ve cultivated? Why would you allow such a pathetic little thing to do that?”

You chuckled. “I appreciate your concern, my lord. But without this slug the dead leaves would remain and the other creatures would be without a meal when they visited.”

Sukuna ran his hand through his hair. “A lot of care for something as weak as a fly head.”

You paused for a moment.

“Then, why allow me here Lord Sukuna?” you asked.

Sukuna remained silent so you continued your line of questioning. “Surely in your eyes I am no different from a garden slug, weak and superfluous. So why allow me to remain?”

Sukuna glared at you with a stern expression that began to make you worry. You had grown more comfortable with him during your stay at the temple. But had you crossed a line?

“Would you compare a rose to a weed?”

The feeling that had coursed through Sukuna began to make its way through your chest as you realized what he thought of you. 

Before you could say anything a voice rang out through the courtyard. 

“Ryomen, I don’t have all day.”

Sukuna turned to face Tengen, his former teacher unchanged from their first meeting in his youth. 

“Come,” she gestured. “We have pressing matters to discuss.”

He looked back to find you gone. 

~

Damn you Yuji Itadori.

He knew his stay in this strange new world would be short, mirroring his swift departure from his time. It was inevitable. He had always been reckless, forever indulgent to his desires for adrenaline and bloodlust. And yet, despite that, he felt anger. His new state as a small lumpish creature was almost as humiliating as how he was defeated. 

That girl, the one his former host had called Nobara. He had been bested by those brats. 

The King of Curses had fallen. 

His rage only increased as the young boy picked him up and held him in his palm.

That brat and his damn pity. He loathed how he cradled him delicately with care. The understanding expression on his face was enough to make him see white as he began to burn away. 

I am a curse.

The image of a rose in a garden remained as Yuji’s voice became distant. 

He had been banished to the afterlife by the world of the living. 

I am an unwanted child. 

A hand reached out from the darkness from behind Sukuna and pulled him back. Then another one. And another. Soon a cluster of rotting limbs began to drag him further and further away from the rose. A light began to break through the darkness above him, blinding the dethroned king. 

When his vision cleared he saw you, standing before him in heavenly white robes with a sorrowful look on your face. 

You reached out and held his face in your hands. 

He was in awe. 

Yes. 

Yes. 

He remembered how you held him. Your compassion. No matter how hard he tried to abandon his human heart you had found a way to remind him of how painfully mortal he was and would always be. 

He loathed you, because he loved you.

You were wanted. 

The hands were persistent and he began to fall, the light engulfing you as you were whisked away to a place where demons like him were forbidden. 

The dethroned king welcomed the flames of hell that embraced him. 

He let out a final sigh as he became nothing. 

The curse that never was and a human no more. 

~

The End. 

[venturesofficialgf]

Accidental stimulation. Reader and Venture come into close contact, which leaves Venture aroused.

reader is female but ill use more gender-neutral pronouns for them, I'm not an amazing or consistent writer so if you have any critiques, please feel free to comment just keep it nice and civil!

Summary: Venture and you had been training in the practice wing, models of different enemy's and teammates running around robotically as venture teaches you the ropes

a/N I've always thought of what type of weapon id have if i was an overwatch character and i think I'd have a 2 toned GIANT syringe who shoots medicine and poison. so, like ink if a divider inside the tube and these giant syringe with a trigger and lever it sounds like moira in a way but now that i think about it...i might have to think harder on my overwatch weapon

although this isn't my first time writing this is definitely my first time posting so go easy on me! its about 2900 words

enjoy!

TW; Smut! MDNI, PiV, Hair pulling, calling venture a doggy! more dom afab reader! Venture has a cock! porn with plot

You had just finished off the first round of level 3 against a robot junker queen, her body movement was really jerky and uncalculated as her torso hit the ground almost evaporating as Venture gives you a huge smile, their voice enthusiastically echoing through the vast room.

"Way to go Mi amore!"

They gave you a high five as you give off a sheepish smile, your weapon leaning against your hip as you catch your breath.

"I still don't know what you're calling me!" you call back, venture gives a light chuckle, brushing you off with a small shove.

With a gun ho attitude Venture patted your shoulder as you composed yourself, readying your weapon once again before nodding at venture.

You asked Venture to startup and they enthusiastically obliged, words of encouragment leaving their lips.

"You got this Y/N!"

Venture wistled as they activated the countdown, hand on their excavator, for safety precautions as theyd tell you.

The Ai voice sounds as it counts down, Sloan leaning against their excavator, all smiles as they adoringly watch you.

"2....1.. ready for battle" A giant Muaraga comes around the corner, guns ablaze. Bullets flying towards you as you hide behind a wall, worry and unsureness lacing your face.

you looked at Venture for a brief second as they just nod encouragingly to you, their thumbs held up with a smile.

You give a small huff, your abilities unsuited for such a unit, guns blazing before clicking indicating the robot needs to reload, so you take your chance, lunging off the wall and shooting at the huge bot, its damage indicator glowing as it grunts and gives a low line with Maugas voice.

once it finally reloads its guns you realized how fucked you were. "shit-" His guns go ablaze again, round after round as you run getting grazed by his bullets. red blood seeping down your exposed thigh as a string of curse words left you mouth.

Venture quickly grabs their excavator as you frantically look for a way out, their mind gears turning as they burrow under the ground, a huge boom resounding through the practice range as they power jump up and swiftly makes quick work of the fake Mauga, a lopsided grin adorning their features as you hunch over, breathing hard.

their about to scoop you up before the ground they emerged from starts cracking, a worried expression adorning your features as you look down, loud bumps being heard from under the two of you before the ground takes you both whole. A commically loud scream leaves both your mouths as Sloan try's  to grab you, shielding your fall, a loud "mmph! fu-ck!" being heard as they hit the pavement with you landing hard on them.

You quickly sat up, worried words spilling from your mouth as they sit up with an heavy groan. you check Ventures head while looking for yours and venture's weapon before realizing its not with you.

you try to move off of Venture, the small space you seem to have found yourselves in make it awkward to really move as you give light apologies.

after a minute you give up trying to stand as Venture sheepishly smiles at you, their lap your new seat until further notice.

"can you contact someone mi amor?"

"i can try"

You begin to turn your watch on, a small projector screen emanating as you try to get a bar.

smut:

Ventures tried looking around the long tunnel like hole you two found yourselves in, the odd burrow had caved in, Sloan internally groaning at the fact as you shifted in their lap, Your free hand gripping their shoulders as you sat up, your body trying to mold itself around Ventures lap. You huffed in annoyance, a cute pout on your face which caught Ventures eye.

Sloans mind was reeling at the circumstance, their mind trying not to focus on the tiny space and you in their lap while you huffed profanities about the predicament, one of which Sloan couldn't help but rub their neck nervously about.

while you kept raising your arm trying to catch a signal Sloan couldn't help the passing thought about how big they were compared to you. I mean sure venture knew they were pretty tall, taller than average, and they also knew they were more on the bulky and fleshy side but seeing how short and just all round smaller than the hero was had their mind fuzzy....

You fiddled with your radar, trying to get contact by moving your arms as far up as you could, signal bars barely flickering as you leaned so far towards venture, albeit ignorantly, promptly causing your chest to be shoved right into your teammates face.

oh boy-

Your face scrunched up in exasperation as you then dropped your arms back down in defeat, sitting fully back down on ventures lap with a loud sigh

Venture couldn't help the deep blush creeping up their tanned complexion, between the tight space and you on their lap they let out a Shakey breath as they tried to fix their eyes and turn their mind on literally anything else in the *literal* hole they dug themself.

Venture then realized you've been talking, their mind so focused on trying to keep calm, as you rambled about something they barely picked up on.

"can't believe this- Venture?" You tilted your head at your partner as their quietness had caught your attention.

"Are you sure you're okay? you might've bumped your head on the fall" Your worried face was what poured gas on the fire, their body suddenly erupted in heat as a nervous chuckle escaped them. "pff me? I'm fine really!"

their flushed face was what worried you as you placed your palm over their forehead, gently feeling if they had a fever from the fall

With you leaned in your other hand shifted on ventures lap, the softness of your hand pushing oh so nicely a little too close to ventures "little friend" had them paling, they really didn't want to ruin this with a stupid hard on.

"you dont have a fever but just to be sure theres nothing wrong right?"

"Nothi-ngs wrong! I'm great! better than ever really! ha-ha what could possibly be wrong? i mean aside from the obvious hole and us stuck and-" Venture started rambling on, shooting nonsense out of their mouth as you gave a giggle, your laugh reassuring ventures feelings for you as they tried to calm down.

after a bit You moved again, your hips alternating the pressure putting it on your other leg as you leaned up a bit more, venture making a choked noise as you fully sat, a strange feeling under you making you slightly uncomfy.

ventures knees were up against the other "wall" of the hole while their back was against the other one, their hands on the ground as to keep themself somewhat upright as you continued to adjust yourself on their lap, your knees close to their hands momentarily bumping ventures fingers before you spoke again, slightly confused and a bit frustrated.

"can you move your belt? I'm sitting on something a bit odd" you give a sheepish smile as you motion to what you sat on, causing Ventures face to falter and look at you with pure horror.

Your face contorts to pure confusion, unsure of what to make of ventures reaction. Why were they just staring at you? like that none the less?

then came Ventures apology? a slew of "Sorrys!" and "please just ignore it!" flung out of their mouth as realization dawned on you.

Venture was aroused.

You couldn't help the blush that seemed to poof onto your face, your body instinctively shuffling around making ventures predicament worse. your squirming caused Ventures hands to fly to your hips, strong fingers pinning you down to stop your movements. your face was red and nervous as heat from your core suddenly started pooling within you.

feeling Venture underneath, you, the outline of them firmly against your clothed core had your heart racing. Their fingers strongly keeping you in place with a small gasp leaving your mouth.

venture couldn't be more mortified even if they tried, their tongue continually moving against their chipped tooth as they tried to speak, leaving you to watch their wet muscle move in languid strokes, somehow making you hot and bothered.

you let yourself take in the situation, venture a flustered, blubbering and aroused mess. the two of you alone for, mercy knows how long, no way really *out* and watching venture messily try to explain themselves surprisingly has you becoming quite hot on your own,,

now or never

you let a smirk grace your lips, a newfound confidence swelling in your chest as you leaned your face in, hot breath fanning over Sloans face as they whisper your name questioningly.

 your soft hand came up to their face watching Sloan avoid your gaze with the cutest blush gave you an insane kick of heat pooling inside your gut

"Sloan~" you drawled out their name, you couldn't help but tease. Their face was too cute as they chewed their lips trying to hide from the world as you lightly grinded down. Sloan chokes on their voice before their eyes snapped to look at yours.

"Well, Sloan?" you roll your hips this time, clothes ruffling as you graze over their arousal, a small whine leaving their lips.

"Need some help?~" Your voice danced on heat as your eyes flickered down to their plush lips, your tongue wetting your own "if you want of course" your voice melts their Armour, a rushed nod coming from them as they quickly speak up "ah Mi amor, I want nothing more than your hel-p, please" Your name leaves Ventures lips in a whimper, heat building in your core as you smile at them giving them a sweet kiss.

Ventures mouth opens before taking your lips in theirs.

 It was hungry and downright nasty with the way their tongue made its way in your mouth, desperation laced in whines being taken into the others mouth. Their cold tongue piercing skillfully rubbing against your tongue made you squirm, their cock rubbing against your clothed cunt making a loud moan escape into the kiss.

"Fuck baby~" Ventures voice sounded; kisses being shared in a frenzy.

"Sloan~" their name barely audible as the two of you kiss, mouths wet before pulling away for air.

"Sloan, fuck, call me Sloan again mi amor" your fingers find their way to Sloans hair lightly pulling on the curly locks with a fast nod, and you couldn't help the wet smile gracing your features as your grind against them, a loud whimper being ripped from their throat as a small one leaves yours.

"Fuck yeah, just like that baby~!" They held your hips with their calloused hands, guiding your cunt, before kissing you again, your tongue lolled out as they sucked it into their mouth this time, your tongue exploring their warm embrace. You couldn't help the moan that slipped out as their hands gripped onto your hips, moving you against them as your tongue swirled with theirs.

When you pulled back for air you couldn't help the dopey smile that lit up your face, your heart felt hot as you kept rocking with Sloan, fuck were they perfect for you.

With your brain muddy from lust your hand began to move on its own, soft fingertips going under the hem of Sloans sweater, eager to touch as much skin as possible as your hips grinded away.

sloan quickly shed their top throwing it behind you before doing the same with your shirt. hands making quick work of any belts and accessories, Sloans gasps and desperate whines echoing in your ears as you pull down your shorts, clumsily ridding them off your body while sloan struggles to unzip their pants.

Impatiently you lightly smack their hand away, pulling the zipper down swiftly before pulling their cock out.

a small moan escaped your throat as you lazily stroke the hot muscle, it twitching deliciously in your hand.

sloan whimpers against your neck, their teeth lightly biting down as they try to ground themself.

Infatuated you start to tease Sloans tip, the mushroom head a blushing red as pearlescent liquid cries out of it, your thumb gently spreading venture's cum across the head before stroking back down, gently caressing the prominent vein on the underside.

Sloan was...thick to say the least, not very long, standing at about 5 in a half inches you'd say but what they lacked in length they made up for in size. Their dick twitching with every stroke you lolled out your tongue, your spit dripping onto Sloans cock with a loud cry from their mouth at the makeshift lubricant.

Sloan had been a biting and whimpering mess as you did all this, their hands shakily making their way to your panties, shoving the fabric aside to let their middle finger slide through your slit, unskilled fingers toying with your entrance before entering, their thick digit causing a moan to slip through your praise.

"fuck i wanna take my time with you Sloan but right now if i dont get you inside of me i might explode" You give a breathy laugh as sloan nods, their whines not hiding anything as their fingers are quick to retreat.

you kiss them a few times before hovering over their cock head, the blushing tip almost teasing your entrance as sloan pants, their hands back on your hips with a vice grip as yours are on their shoulders.

"FU-ucK~!" Sloans voice cracks as they moan, the word being hottest thing coming from them as their dick breaches your hole, the thick shaft giving you quite the stretch as you pant in heavily, legs slightly shaking as you inch your way on them.

A slew of whimper came out of Sloan as you finally sat fully down, their girth causing you to take deep breaths as you get used to the feeling. 

sloan grabbed your neck, pulling you in for a kiss with a needy moan, their tongue clashing with yours as you messily make out, their cock twitching inside you before pulling away.

"You okay Sloan?~" your voice raspy as they nod

"better...better than ever" They whisper out, their voice hoarse as they try to keep their hips from bucking.

without warning you finally start to move, your hips grinding as venture shrieks out a moan, their mouth hot against your chest as one of your hands situates into Sloans hair, slotting your fingers between strands.

your body starts pulling up, Venture's cock almost being pulled out before you slide back down swiftly, moans spilling from both your mouths as you start a Rythm

your bodys almost melting together perfectly as you both moan in synce, the pace you set hard but slow.

Sloan couldnt help but whine for more, their fingers digging into your hips with pleads of "f-Faster!"s and "more mi-mi amour~"

you couldnt help but smile, a little fucked out sure but a smile non the less as you spoke "more?~ my baby wants more?~"

Sloan continued their beyond fucked out pleas as you pulled their hair lightly, bringing your face close to theirs hotly before spitting in their mouth as they happily swallowed

"you are a good doggy~ and good doggys do in fact get rewards~" They whined and nodded furiously as you breathlessly chuckled before obliging to their needs, rutting your hips fast and hard, Ventures poor throat being dried as they couldnt stop almost screaming, their cock twitching as they moaned and whined and cooed out "thank you"s like a broken record on loop.

Your moans weren't much better as your hips snapped up and down, your orgasm coming in close as you kept talking venture through it, the twitches of their cock more frequent had you assuming they were close.

Both of you gripped onto each other for dear life, bodies sweaty and hot as you both reached your peak, your stomach knotted up before all of a sudden your nerves going numb in pleasure with a loud whimper, Sloans hot cum shooting inside you in spurts as they draw out your name in the neediest moan possible while they almost cry into your shoulder form their release.

your arms draped around venture as you held each other close, their cock softening inside you as the two of you panted for breath, both heavily breathing as you calmed down.

you stroked ventures face with a small smile, praising them through their high before they too smiled at you, a red and fucked out face showing off their chipped tooth with the happiest face in the world.

eventually the two of you did have to separate, cleaning off with ventures coat wasn't ideal but it worked for now, the two of you the standing up and trying to catch another signal.

[sumicchin]

CHIMES OF THE HEART

❃ a wind breaker (satoru nii) reader insert.

CHAPTER 4

Violence is the answer to everything in this world (not really). (3.3k words)

content warning: female reader, original characters, character background, slight ooc i fear

When I was little, I often found myself looking forward to the sound of the wind chime as it danced with the breeze. It was fairly quiet inside the shrine when it was just Hayami, me, and a man named Sojiro while waiting for the officiants to inhabit the divine structure.

Furin was my only companion—acting as if its bell were telling me stories from the outside world. It's been there ever since I could remember, and no one bothered to place another one.

Just like the wind chime, I was alone.

While the grownups worked, I occupied myself with little tasks that my stubby fingers could manage. Sometimes I took out a book they had in the study and ran to the adults to ask what certain words meant. I became more involved with the shrine as I grew older, not as a Miko, but just as a random helper. 

I was essentially free to do what I wanted. So when I was 10, I expressed my wish to venture out of the shrine.

"Hey, old man," I greeted Sojiro, tending to the flowers near the statues. His head perked up upon hearing my voice and greeted me back. As odd as it sounded, Sojiro wanted me to call him that way despite his youthful appearance.

"Hi there, little miss," Sojiro says as he stands up to face me, "what's today's agenda?"

For as long as I can remember, Hayami and Sojiro have been caring for me since. I haven't really asked about their relationship, or who my parents were since there was no need to do so. I was fine with how things were for the past couple of years, but the books I read and my trips to the market while accompanying Hayami made me yearn for more.

And so I was determined to confront them that day.

I showed him the book I was carrying. Kusamakura by Natsume Soseki.

Not really something a ten-year-old would read, but I had nothing better to do in this shrine.

"Oh, that's one of Hayami's favorite novels," Sojiro says. "An artist sets on a journey in search of beauty and inspiration for life and art. It's a simple read but very worth it to understand what it's like to be an artist." The man beams, totally lost in his thoughts. I let out a sigh, "That's not what I came for, old man."

"Ah, my bad! You know I get too excited about stuff like that." Sojiro laughs and pats my head, "So, let's cut to the chase. You want to go outside, right?" He chuckles as soon as my face contorts to that of a shocked expression. Sojiro is a man full of secrets.

"H-how'd you know?"

He shows me his infamous grin with eyes closed, "It's a secret power of mine!"

He pats my head, ruffling it in the process, "But sorry kiddo, we can't really make that happen." Already rejected before I could speak the speech I prepared. "Hayami will explain to you once you're older, but right now you have to stay here, 'kay? Think of it as a special mission given by the gods!" I was about to sulk and curse whoever made that decision when Sojiro perked up, "But hey that reminds me! The priest decided to assign you as bodyguard for the Mikos." I let out an audible sound of confusion, telling him I barely knew how to throw a punch. The best I could do was to bite someone like a sewer rat.

"That's why I'm gonna train you starting tomorrow!"

By sheer determination and fear of being on the receiving end of Sojiro's sword and fist (both hurt equally), I became a competent bodyguard for the officiants at the age of 14.

"The wind feels very nice, doesn't it (F/n)?" Manami, one of the older Mikos, glances at the fully bloomed cherry blossom trees by the river.

"Yeah, pretty lucky we got to go out today!" I excitedly say. Becoming the bodyguard for the Mikos allowed me to at least go out more often. It was always fun accompanying the women of the shrine outside, teaching me all sorts of stuff that can't be picked up from books.

"The priest doesn't really trust outsiders let alone men to protect the girls, so he's hoping to rely on us, (F/n)." I recalled Sojiro's words on our first day of training. It was a day full of bruises, and many more came after that but the strength I currently possess made it all worth it. I find myself more comfortable fighting with a sword though, and Sojiro encourages me to keep at my training.

I established one rule as a bodyguard.

To never take someone's life.

The two of us continue talking, heading back to the steps leading to the shrine after buying gifts from the market. We were a few blocks away from returning to our refuge, until I felt a tug on my hakama's left sleeve.

"What is it, Manami?"

"Can we maybe, stay outside for a bit longer?" She timidly asks.

"But we promised to only go to the market," I reluctantly answered, but seeing her crestfallen face made me double take. I guess she's just tired of Miko duties...

"It's just for a moment, I promise! There's something I need to see."

She leads me to a shop that sold fireworks and the like.

"I'd like to get one of these for summer!"

I watched as she hurriedly went inside the shop, already browsing the many varieties of explosives. How do we hide the fireworks from Hayami and the priest, I deadpan.

I was too occupied with my thoughts, but I know for one someone in black just went past me. Still bothered by how I'm supposed to hide the fact we went somewhere other than the market, the scream of a woman registered late to me.

I hurriedly ran inside the shop and saw a dark-haired man in a suit dangerously near Manami.

"Let her go!" I yell as I grab the hilt of my sword.

Upon closer inspection, it became clear that the man was actually just a tall teenager from his features. He must be an artistocrat or something.

"Please fight outside my shop!" The shop owner yells to no avail.

"Are you cosplaying a samurai?" The boy hums, letting go of Manami. She stumbles back but was helped by the store owner. "She took the last sparkler I wanted to buy," he says mockingly while approaching me.

"But I've lost interest now." His tone suddenly drops, approaching slowly as he inspects me and my sword—and to say I'm frightened is an understatement. I've fought many men before, but his aura screamed something awfully dangerous.

I knew right then and there I'll die if I try fighting him.

"Is that sword for real? Must be serious business, huh?" he grins as he points at my sword.

I scoffed, "Wanna see for yourself?"

"Fine with me..." He raises his right arm, my grip on my sword's hilt and scabbard tightening, "been wanting to take out someone armed."

He swiftly tried to go for my neck, but I nearly blocked him with my sword, the blunt edge of the blade near my cheek and the sharper side near the man's wrist. "Don't move a muscle, or the blade will cut you."

His lips twitch, but not so much to pass as a grin, "I'll look forward to that."

Even though I tried resisting, his strength overpowered me by the end and I lost control over my blade. I stared helplessly as my sword fell to the ground, waiting for his fist to strike me. It

"You're interesting! Let's meet again when we're a bit older." He pats my shoulder, walking out of the store. "How about when we're both 16, 'kay?"

He walked unscathed out of the store as I scrambled towards Manami who was shaken.

She and I swore to never talk about the incident ever.

It was then that I realized I'm still weak.

Was I even fit to protect others?

Although I never wished to encounter that man again, the world had different plans for me.

Turns out he was just the start of this madness, and there were more to follow.

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

You watch the boy from across the room as he sleeps peacefully, just like a child after throwing a fit. That night, he established social distancing before heading to bed, saying he didn't want to accidentally do stuff he'd regret in his sleep.

It was painfully obvious that he was nervous the whole night, stiff as a rock and barely breathing. He eventually (and with difficulty) fell asleep though, thankfully. Sakura would probably stay asleep for a couple more hours, so you decided to get a head start and freshen up for the day.

You unfold the piece of clothing that served as a makeshift pillow last night, recognizing that this is what Sojiro called a hoodie. It smelled very minty and upon checking the pockets, you see some suckers with different flavors. These look really good...

This must belong to Sakura, but no harm in trying it out right? The hoodie, that is. You've had enough of stealing's someone's food. The apparel was obviously loose and too big, but it makes one admire the craftsmanship with how warm and comfortable it felt. 

He told you that night that his friends brought in food and clothes, so you excitedly checked the bag. It's filled with clothes that you used to dream of trying out, too tired of the usual hakama back at the shrine. Nothing bad about being traditional, but seeing vibrant colors and patterns other than flowers and birds makes you feel all giddy inside.

One of the shirts had a drawing of a white cat with a red ribbon. This character often appeared in the teen magazines Sojiro brought back from trips. Why he bought them is beyond you (it's so that you can check out what girls your age like, he says).

This is super adorable! You think while holding the shirt.

The bumpkin has now been in contact with Sanrio characters.

Taking out pants that you think fits the shirt with the white cat, you find the bathroom to freshen up and change.

If Hayami saw you right now, she'd probably start calling you out for looking scandalous. A huge part of your legs and thighs were exposed, and the shirt definitely hugged the torso a bit too much to what I'm you're to, but the cute design is too much to pass up on.

Styling your hair in your preferred way to complete the new look, you step out of the bathroom, seemingly trying your best to fit in with the folks of this city (and accordingly to the magazines).

It seems that Sakura is still out cold. Worriedly, you approached his figure hunched in a fetal position to check his temperature. Your face neared his and touched your foreheads together. Upon contact, it didn't seem like he was ill, but after a few seconds he began heating up rapidly.

You were greeted by his heterochromatic eyes, too wide for someone who was just sleeping moments ago. Didn't this happen already?

"W-WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" He stammers, backing to a wall behind him.

"Checking your temperature, what else? You were out cold for a while."

He wipes his forehead rapidly like you spread germs on it. Rude.

"Aren't you the sick one here? Stop worrying about me, damn it!"

You unknowingly pout and look at the floor, "I was just worried." Rolling your eyes towards him, he looks away in return.

He clicks his tongue, refusing to look you in the eye. Is he allergic to affection or something?

"So much for a morning call." You stretch, standing up to head out. "I'm feeling all better now, can we go outside?"

"Someone's gonna pay you a visit, so sit your ass down!" He turns on his phone and starts swiping his fingers.

Nirei

Sent a sticker [good morning!].

Suo

Sent a sticker [happy wake up].

Kiryu

Sent a sticker [cat wake up].

Tsugeura

Sent a sticker [muscle ohayo!]

Nirei

Suo and I will be visiting!

Sugishita

Seen

Sakura sees the group chat for his class, then checks out the ones his upperclassmen sent.

Kaji

bring my hoodie to school i cant drop by cuz of errands

Tsubaki

Good morning!

I'll be visiting after school with Kanji and the twins~

Umemiya

Morning!

Kotoha and I will visit soon!

Breakfast is on me!

···

He sees Bofurin's leader still writing another message and waits for it. When it does get sent, he suddenly gets conscious.

Umemiya

Kotoha hopes you're wearing something other than a shirt and boxers, she says!

Sakura immediately looks at himself and suddenly whips his head towards you.

"How come you didn't tell me I was just wearing boxers in front of 'ya the whole time?!"

You blink repeatedly, "You were bothered by that? If it makes you feel better, I've seen uncles only in their loincloths."

He turns red and immediately scrams to the bathroom to check for his used pants.

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

"Wow, so this is your school uniform?"

Sakura comes out of the bathroom in his iconic green gakuran and pants, acting smug and proud to be wearing symbolic garments. You clapping and looking with amazement just made his head bigger, saying stuff like "Woah, so trendy!" and "You look like a model!"

A knock on the door interrupted the duo's little fashion show, with Sakura heading towards the door to invite his guests.

He sees Umemiya, Suo, Nirei, and Kotoha all carrying bags.

"Morning, Sakura!" Everyone followed suit with their morning greetings, taking off their shoes as they entered his apartment.

"Oh! Looks like our little ghost has recovered now," Umemiya smiles as he takes a seat in front of you. "I'm Umemiya Hajime, but you can call me big bro if you'd like!" He beams.

He starts rummaging the bag he brought out, "Hope you like soup and omurice!"

Kotoha approaches you and waves hello, to which you bow in reply. She was taken aback, saying there was no need to be formal. "Kotoha is fine! And the clothes look really good on you!" She starts gushing about taking you to the shopping district with someone named Tsubaki, happy to have another female companion.

"We've brought you some snacks, courtesy of the class!" Nirei shows you the contents of the bag filled with unfamiliar bags, "O-oh! I'm Nirei Akihiko by the way. If you need help navigating Makochi, I'm your guy!"

The last of the visitors wore an eye patch and felt immensely mysterious, boasting quite the powerful aura. Thinking about it, three of them held overwhelming auras, Umemiya's in particular was overflowing. You didn't notice that you were staring too hard at the eye-patched boy.

"My name is Leonardo DiCaprio!"

Oh! A foreigner, you beamed.

"Don't fall for that, (F/n)!" Sakura points accusingly at Suo, "That guy's Hayato Suo, make sure you're extra careful around him."

"You wound me, Sakura. I thought we were friends," Suo fakes a sigh. "And you're on a first name basis with her."

Sakura blushes, "That's her first name?!"

Nirei realizes and hides his face using his notebook, feeling giddy to have another female friend on a first name basis, "I-it feels really embarrassing to be on a first name basis already!"

"You already gave her your lap yesterday, a name is nothing at this point," Suo chuckles.

You think for a bit, and it reminds you that everyone back at the shrine never mentioned a family name. Gods, am I adopted? Am I the next Momotaro?

"I don't know my parents, and no one really told me about other stuff about them."

Everyone stops and looks at you with a somber expression.

Umemiya lets out a loud wail, eyes comically tearing as he tries to go in for a hug, "Ume-nii and Kotoha over here will be your family then!!!"

Nirei feels himself tear up as well, unable to imagine living a life without knowing who his parents were. Suo's face remained neutral, mouth forming a line and unable to say something to lift the mood.

Sakura on the other hand just stares at you, eyes soft and looking as if he sees himself in you.

"But don't worry about me! I still grew up with caring adults," your smile falters for a bit, wondering how Hayami and Sojiro were faring after your escape. "Let's all eat! Big day ahead of us."

Kotoha begins handing out soup and takeout omurice, "What happened to you anyways? If you don't mind me asking,"

You choke on a potato, clearing your throat before speaking, "Oh uh...I made an enemy out of an aristocrat, he decided to marry me or else he'll destroy my home, but my caretakers wanted me to run away, and now I am searching for something here in this town. Yes, I think that accounts for everything so far!"

"That's quite the story." She says, not sure if she was concerned or amused.

Suo pieces the situation in his head, "I assume that's why you were in a white kimono." Everyone realizes and looks at him, "Do you think your husband will search for you?"

You correct Suo, saying you're technically not wed yet. He mutters a small apology. "I don't want to get married to a man like him."

They all feel the spite and anger behind your words.

You look sternly at everyone, "It's also why I needed to get away from everyone as soon as possible. I fear I'll get you all caught up in this mess."

Everyone hears a scoff from Sakura who was gulping down food just earlier, now looking at you with a smirk.

"Thanks for telling me bits of your story," he puts down his now finished bowl of soup and omurice.

"We just gotta beat up that guy, right?"

changed the writing style for a bit, hope its okay (⁠；⁠^⁠ω⁠^⁠）

[doumadono]

Hello! How are you?

Is it okay if I request a fluffy oneshot with Gojo and his female s/o getting bubble tea/boba together, please and thank you?

I love your writing, by the way!

JUJUTSU KAISEN MASTERLIST

The sun was beginning its descent, casting a warm, golden glow over the city.

Gojo found himself with a free evening. He decided it was the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with his beloved, a plan that involved your favorite guilty pleasure - bubble tea.

Gojo strolled down the bustling streets, hands in his pockets, and a mischievous glint in his eyes. As he approached the bubble tea shop, he couldn't help but notice the vibrant colors and the enticing aroma wafting through the air.

Y/N, a beacon of warmth and joy in his life, awaited him inside.

As the door chimed upon his entrance, your eyes met, and Gojo flashed his signature grin. "Hey, gorgeous," he greeted you with a warm grin glued to his face. "Are you ready?"

The air was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly brewed teas.

Your face lit up, matching the sparkle in Gojo's eyes. "Absolutely! I've been craving it all day."

"You know," Gojo began, "I've heard that the secret to choosing the best bubble tea flavor is to go with your gut feeling."

You gave him a brief glance. "Well, my gut is telling me to try the classic milk tea with pearls. How about you?"

Gojo tapped his chin dramatically, "I'm feeling adventurous today."

You both placed your orders soon - Gojo, always the risk-taker, went for an exotic blend while you stuck to a classic milk tea with pearls.

With drinks in hand, you ventured outside, finding a quaint bench bathed in the soft glow of streetlights.

Seated side by side, Gojo couldn't resist a playful comment. "You know, bubble tea dates are a surefire way to win my heart."

You chuckled, "Well, good thing I've got the secret recipe then."

The first sip was nothing short of bliss. Gojo's eyes widened in surprise, "This is actually amazing! How about yours?"

"Told you the classics are always a win," you chanted.

As you sipped your drinks, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Gojo's laughter rang out like music in your ears. You exchanged anecdotes, shared dreams and plan, kissed, and reveled in the simple pleasure of each other's company. Once or twice, his sturdy hand found its way to the nape of your neck, where he tenderly caressed you, drawing you into kisses that grew increasingly passionate.

Naturally, every now and then, his gaze would wander from your face to your décolletage, but you skillfully redirected his attention, steering the conversation to safer territories like his day and encounters with perilous curses.

Satoru kept a watchful eye on your drink the entire time, and you could sense in your instincts that he was bound to do something about it.

Gojo couldn't resist teasingly stealing a sip from your drink. "Yours is good, but I think I've found a new favorite."

"Hey, that's mine!" you protested, giggling shortly after. "And really? I'd like to see you try and order it next time."

"Challenge accepted," Gojo winked, sealing the vow with a lighthearted laugh.

Before you knew it, your cups were empty, and Gojo couldn't help but feel a warmth in his heart. It wasn't just about the bubble tea - it was about the shared laughter, stolen kisses, and the simple joy of being together.

[alice-after-dark]

The Red King and the Unicorn - Legends and Lore

Heavily inspired by The Last Unicorn, Howl's Moving Castle, and Beauty and the Beast.

Sorry it's been a while since I updated one of my AUs! Been busy with my current wip. Hope you guys enjoy!

They say the Red King is a fearsome thing, a being known across the land for his powerful magic and cruelty. Clothed completely in the color of blood and with the rotted antlers of a deer, they say he crawled from the depths of the abyss, a foul evil creature made of darkness and screams.

They say when the moon rises high and full he will hunt, devouring the souls of those unlucky enough to enter his path. Parents warn their children to never venture into the forest at night, for if they did the Red King will catch them and eat them bones and all. Or perhaps he will curse you with his terrible magic and leave you to suffer for all eternity. Those who live to tell the tale are often driven mad by the encounter, too frightened to even describe what they saw. They say he can change form, taking on the shape of whatever you fear most.

They say Red King lives in a castle made of dark stone. It sits high on a cliff's edge, its tall twisted towers overlooking the sea. Those who pass through its doors never return, eaten soul and all by sharp teeth meant to rend flesh from bone.

"Niffty, dear, hand me the salt, please?...thank you."

That's what they say.

Vox watches from his place on the couch, still wrapped in the throw blanket someone had laid across him, as this creature of darkness fusses about the small kitchen. He's making some kind of stew and it smells incredible. Niffty flutters around him, fetching ingredients and chattering happily. The Red King nods along as she babbles before finally interrupting her to request she fetch everyone for dinner.

The goblin woman nods eagerly and waves at Vox. "Pretty horse! Dinner is ready!" She skips away then, presumably to find Husk. Vox jumps when he suddenly finds the abyssal being beside him.

"Do you need assistance getting to the table?" The Red King asks. "It's my understanding you were having some difficulty this morning."

Vox blushes, remembering how he's nearly fallen down the stairs, and nods. He takes the hand offered to him with hesitation and he is instantly reminded of the night he was taken away from the carnival. He'd offered him his hand then too.

He can feel their bond through the contact and the unicorn stands on shaky legs, but the Red King holds him firm. "One step at a time, dear." He places his other hand on Vox's lower back to hold him steady. Vox nods and does as instructed, hobbling ungracefully over to the table. "You'll get better with practice," the king says, helping him into a chair. "It took Husker some time to learn how to walk on two legs as well. You'll adapt."

"Um...thank you," Vox says, voice barely above a whisper. It still feels strange to speak again, after being forcibly silenced for so long. The Red King places a bowl of stew in front of him and waves a hand.

"Eat. You're far too thin as it is. I'm sure the others won't mind if you start without them."

"O-okay."

It only takes him a couple tries to get a good grip on the...well, he doesn't know what this one is called, but there's no fork so Vox assumes this is what he is meant to be using for the meal. He's not quite sure he's doing it right, but his hold is firm enough that he's satisfied. His first try makes him realize the tool is upside-down and after a quick correction, his second attempt is much more successful, if not a little clumsy. Still, the food makes it into his mouth and he smiles.

"This is...really good." He takes another bite. He only gets silence in response and when he looks up, the Red King is watching him. He's still smiling, but there's something about his eyes that makes Vox feel like he's actually frowning. "Is...something wrong?" His heart begins to slam in his chest. Something unpleasant tingles through their bond.

To his shock, the Red King almost seems embarrassed at having been caught and he looks away abruptly. "Nothing is...technically wrong, no. I suppose I just...I usually add much more flavor to my cooking, but I toned it down some because I wasn't sure if it would be too much for you so soon. What have they been feeding you that has destroyed your palette so?"

Vox isn't sure he entirely understands. The food seems incredibly rich to him. But the being's last question has him sinking low in his chair. "Hay, mostly. Sometimes scraps of raw vegetables." He eyes the remnants still on the counter with disdain. The Red King follows his gaze and his eyes go sharp.

"Their prized catch, fed like a common mule? If you weren't immortal, you would have starved. It's no wonder you were so weak when we found you."

"Um...how did you find me? I've been trapped there for years and never once has anyone tried to rescue me."

The king waves his hand at the bowl. "Keep eating while we talk. Truth be told, we weren't looking for you. It was a rather happy accident that we stumbled across your imprisonment. We had thought everything at the show would be fake. Imagine our surprise to find the genuine article locked up in a tiny cage."

Vox curls in on himself a little as he takes another bite, the warm stew sharply contrasting the memory of the cold cramped space that had been his home for years. "I...thank you...for rescuing me anyways."

"Now, none of that. We've already made our bargain. No further sentiments are necessary."

Vox opened his mouth to speak, but was interrupted by the arrival of Husk and Niffty.

"Fuckin' mandrakes," Husk hisses as he stomps into the main room. His fur is matted with dirt. "Al, you mind?"

Al?

The Red King points in Husk's direction and a small whirlwind kicks up around him, gathering the dirt from his fur and carrying it back the way Husk had come. Husk's fur puffs up in a fashion that looks so ridiculous, Vox has to hide a snort behind his hand.

Husk grumbles. "Ha ha, very funny."

"I like to think I am," the king replies, chuckling as the manticore smooths down is fur.

"I'm funny, but looks aren't everything!" Niffty giggled. Vox doesn't understand the joke, but whatever it is, Husk and the Red King don't seem to enjoy it as they share a disapproving look between the two of them.

The king steeples his finger together. "Niffty, darling, what have I said about self-deprecation?"

"That I shouldn't do it, but it's fine. I know I'm ugly. Daddy used to tell me so all the time." The tiny woman has already helped herself to a bowl and is settling into her seat beside Vox.

"And what have I said about your father?"

"That he tasted like shit!"

Husk chokes on a laugh, the king sighs low, and Vox nearly drops his...stew eating tool.

Tasted?!

The Red King clears his throat. "Well, yes, but also I believe I have told you that he is, in fact, a wretched imbecile who couldn't tell his arse from his elbow. Why would you trust the word of a man with so few brain cells? You're a lovely woman and I won't hear otherwise."

Niffty giggles and digs into her stew happily. Husk starts talking to the king about the state of the garden, everyone seemingly oblivious to the dumbfounded unicorn at the end of the table.

TASTED?!

---

Husk being in charge of the garden was inspired by @hiemaldesirae's comments on a Hazbin poll about who would have a succulent garden.

[rin-bellatrix]

Oasis

"When everything's meant to be broken, I just want you to know who I am." - Goo Goo Dolls

August finds himself in the middle of the Pandoran desert, left to clean up his business' loose ends. Though, he's not as alone as he once thought, coming face to (pretty) face with the grifter who stole his heart. It seems that Sasha has some of her own loose ends to clean up as well.

I love Sasha and August ok

I'm firmly in the belief that August needs to reclaim his full redemption arc (he started towards the end of Tales and well, we just never got to see the end result 🤷🏽‍♀️)

So here's my first "saugust" piece! (Pls tell me if there's a better ship name for them out there 💀) I've written them as bg characters in my rhyiona fics, bc we love a big ol' happy family affair, but this is their first solo spotlight on my blog 😌💕

they need more recognition, they're kinda like Bonnie and Clyde, love my lil outlaw couple 💖 so stinkin' cute 🥰 (not to be confused with everyone's favorite villain couple, jackisha, who I've also written for 🤭)

Ahem, anyway~ this is part one, so this is unfinished. More to come from this particular story ✨️

Also. Am I posting this in the last hour of the month of August, instead of getting my shit together and posting it sooner...? Don't worry about it~ ☺️

Enjoy~ 🧡💜

It was always sunny on Pandora. Or at least, it seemed to be whenever August had to venture out of the dark shithole that was Hollow Point. The white sub-giant star that was Pandora's sun seemed to be on full blast today, the curve of the horizon a warbled, dancing edge in this heat. Sweat rolled down the side of his face and gathered at his jawline before spilling off in incessant drops. He shook his head to get the sweat out of his eyes before leaning into his truck bed and grabbing two fistfuls of rough canvas.

He tossed another burlap covered carcass onto the small pile of bodies, grunting with its weight. His Ma might be gone, but that just left the family business up to him. Which meant cleaning up the mess when a rival gang thought that they could prove themselves bigger and badder. Not a chance. But it was best to dump the bodies farther away from the entrance to Hollow Point to avoid scavengers somehow finding a way to spill into his town. That was the last thing he needed.

Dusting his hands off, he slammed the trunk door closed and ripped an old rag out of his back pocket. Mopping the perspiration from his neck and face (minding his piercings), he squinted up at the ball of fire in the sky and cursed its heat. What he wouldn't give for an ice cold drink right about now, he was fucking parched.

Stuffing the damp rag back into his pocket, he rounded his truck to head to the driver's side. His boots kicking up sand, his mind already focused on securing a cold shower as soon as he got back home. Gripping the handle, he pulled and yanked the door open, one foot on the step bar ready to hop in, before he looked up and froze.

"Thirsty?" Sasha chimed, sitting relaxed behind the wheel, dangling a cold bottle that was dripping with condensation.

The sight alone had him wondering if this was a mirage, if the heat had really gotten to him and made him hallucinate this as his own personal oasis. But then her scent of orange blossoms hit him, and he took a step back in shock. The sweet scent that sometimes haunted his dreams was a startling contrast to the freshly decomposing bodies that he just unloaded from the back of his truck.

How did she even get here without him knowing...?

She was as beautiful as ever, maybe even more so if that was possible. Her locks were pulled back in a sleek style, much like the last time he saw her during that whole vault debacle. Her outfit looked clean and classy, a stark contrast to his current state of sweaty and sandy. She wore reflective sunglasses that kept him from seeing her eyes, only his own warped image staring back at him.

When she arched a pretty brow, waiting for a response, August had to reel himself in. "What the fuck are you doin' in my truck?" No one could ever say that he didn't have a way with words.

"Is that the greeting I get? After I came all this way to bring you a nice refreshing drink, because I know you always leave to come here without one."

It shouldn't move him that she remembered his dump sight. It should mean nothing that she remembered he always forgot to pack a drink. It wasn't a big deal that she came to drop off a cold drink. She was a con artist, this is what she did. It's how she wormed her way into his heart the first time. He told himself this, and tried to ignore the way his heart beat a little faster at the implication that she still cared about him.

Did she ever really care about him...?

"What's it to you? If I forget to hydrate, how's it any of your business?" He glowered at her, old hurt resurfacing as if it were just yesterday.

She watched him from behind her sunglasses, quiet as she struggled to find a new lie to fixate on.

"Listen, I don't care, get the fuck out of my seat and go back to wherever you came from. You've got nothin' here, unless ya want me to put a bullet in your brain."

Sasha pursed her lips, her free hand settling firmly on the steering wheel. "I'm gonna drive you back." When he opened his mouth to argue, she continued. "I just want to talk." When he remained suspicious, she reached up to remove her sunglasses, meeting his eyes clearly. "Please?"

Her eyes were so clear, the light jade so beautiful with her complexion. His mind told him to watch his heart, not to fall for her tricks. But his heart told him to go along with what she wanted, simply because it was her who asked. August considered himself a strong man - an intelligent man - but in the face of the woman he loved, he crumbled far too easily.

He grunted as he slammed the door closed, rounding to the passenger side of his own damn truck. He hopped in, the cab rocking with his momentum, the door shutting behind him as he huffed.

Sasha held out the bottle again, and he watched as a drop of water raced down the side and gathered at the bottom before splattering across his leather seat. He looked up at her and met her eyes again, ignoring the excitement that wanted to bubble to the surface.

"Is it poisoned?"

The pretty grifter frowned, before twisting the cap off and taking a swig, once again holding it out to him. "That answer your question, smart ass?"

He hesitated before taking the bottle from her. Glancing down as she shifted the car into drive and pulled off, he noticed the faintest glossy shine of her lip gloss on the lip of the bottle. As the truck rumbled through the Pandoran desert, he recalled how slick her lips were when she would kiss him after applying it. They way she giggled when he pulled back and groused about the texture. How she would joke with him, arms looped around his neck, if she should withhold her kisses then. And he would snag her closer by her waist, pulling her into him and grumbling a complaint against her wet lips as he kissed her through her laughter.

He eyed the residue of it on his bottle now. Then, he lifted it to his lips and drank deeply, imagining that he could feel a phantom press of her lips against his own. It quenched him like nothing else.

☆

TBC

☆

☆ borderlands masterlist ⋆ main masterlist ☆

©rin-bellatrix 2024

[three-headed-monster]

brandt/luke: a primer

i'm gonna be super honest, there's nothing that's prompting this. it's quite literally self-indulgent for me to archive their interactions before i forget them all!

so hello ! welcome ! if you're here, i presume you're clicking because you're like 'what the fuck is this, luke hughes and who now?' and yeah that would be me too if i didn't know the background information

but it exists!!! and it has spiralled far beyond my wildest dreams and become an actual Thing that i would consider one of the ships i ride the HARDEST for!!!!!! that i have somehow convinced my closest friends to also ride for, which is the biggest accomplishment for a ship, as we all know

here's who the ship consists of:

luke hughes!

(sorry he looks cursed but this is not a post about how attractive he is)

he was the 4th overall pick in the 2021 draft or smth, no big deal, just comes from an extremely talented hockey family and plays with his brother in new jersey now. used to play at the university of michigan, which unfortunately is an important setting for many, many rarepair ships. don't know if there are really any fun facts about him but he used to model for american eagle and got made fun of for that

anyways here's the second person in the ship, brandt clarke !

(did i choose a significantly better looking photo of him for this than with luke? yes, absolutely, because it's important that you think he's attractive)

8th overall pick to the la kings, former don mills flyer with shane wright and brennan othmann, former barrie colts captain, friends with jack quinn, etc etc. you may actually know him from that time he tried to jump the glass and fight a fan in the stands, i think that video went p viral on hockey twitter. the most important thing you know though is that he has more attitude and swagger in his pinky finger than the majority of people have in their whole BODY

so let's venture back to 2022, and how this all started, with a conversation between me and @fifthovertime about the greater toronto area and its hockey connections

toronto, as many might know, is considered a hockey hotbed, due to its abundance of minor hockey teams. it's where a lot of nhl players come from, and where a lot of players call home and return to in the summers.

luke, prior to moving to michigan with his parents and brothers so quinn could play with the ntdp, used to live in toronto while his dad worked for the leafs. at this time, there were a lot of other young budding stars in the area, brandt clarke included. he'd moved down from ottawa to play on a minor midget team in toronto, the don mills flyers, which was rival minor hockey team to luke's. however, since the toronto hockey scene was so tight (and because brandt's older brother was playing with luke's on the same team), they would periodically see each other and play pond hockey together. as kids do.

don't believe me? hear it from brandt himself. timestamp from about 2:55 of the video to about 3:55.

this is what i like to call interaction #1. of course, it's really just brandt retelling a story, but it's the first time i heard about any sort of friendship between the hughes brothers and the clarkes. very wholesome, you can tell brandt really has a hero complex for luke and jack, it's frankly adorable.

and if you go back, you can even see that brandt was a really supportive friend! he commented on luke’s commitment post to umich and luke liked the comment, at the time

but they’re not friends. no, i’d call them far from that. because slowly....you can start to see that hatred is building........because brandt starts to know he's good enough to go fourth overall. and he would love to go to a team with his brother on it.....but there's another brother standing in the way of that.

he doesn't speak about luke in particular in this interview, but he definitely talks about njd as if he doesn't think it's a realistic option for him

at this point then, the narrative is pretty clear. it was once a friendship, that slipped away from both of them because of distance, and although brandt once had reverence for it, he’s soured on the idea. he wishes he could be good enough to play with his brother too. he hates that luke hughes is good enough at hockey to do it. luke to him is less so an extension of his brothers, but an obstacle for brandt to overcome, an obstacle that stands in the way of everything he wants.

but so far it’s been pretty one sided…right? it’s all kind of just been brandt’s feelings toward luke, right?

behold, the glorious moment that lives entirely rent free in my mind, every. single. day.

i soooo wish i had the video for this (screw tsn for wiping their archives so often) BUT TRUST WHEN I WATCHED IT FOR THE FIRST TIME I AUDIBLY GASPED.

he said it with so much fucking snark, and an EYE ROLL. the inflappable luke hughes, who has seemingly never let an opponent get in the way of him and his friends having fun and kicking ass at the same time, is bothered by a dig from brandt clarke. that didn't even mention him directly! that was more about techniques of the game than it was about the usa players! "he can say what he wants", but he didn't even say anything about YOU

genuinely, i will thank mark masters for bringing this up with luke forever, he's so valid for that, he knew we needed this narrative.

what's even better is that THE NEXT DAY during the semi-final? guess who scores the game-winning goal. and guess who just happens to be flopping like a fish on the ice during it, trying to prevent it from going in.

and thus brandt/luke is born! as taylor describes it as, it is bitch ass cunt (luke) for cunt ass bitch (brandt). they are each other's equals and opposites. they're both cocky and sure of themselves and can give it as good as it gets, and what they like about each other is what happens when that is stripped away. they are undoubtedly MY favourite luke hughes narrative, and the only one i feel truly captures his narrative essence, away from his brothers. sure, others are cute and i can see where people are coming from, but nothing gets luke as much as this gets luke.

this is luke, unfiltered, and it's only brandt that can bring it out of him.

[ryin-silverfish]

LMK Fanfic: The Serpent and the Deluge

AO3 Mirror

LMK S5 spoilers ahead. Proceed with caution.

Kinda a companion piece to my "Chaos doesn't work that way" post.

Featuring: the Nine-Headed Demon telling a story, and lots of Chinese mythos references.

We met again, Harbinger.

Now hold on, and hold your punches. We are in a dream, the realm souls wander to in their slumber. You can't touch me here, nor can I touch you; though I apologize for intruding without permission, it doesn't really matter when this visit is my last.

Why am I here? To tell you a story about a cave. 

Oh come on, no need to look all bored before I even begin. I know you've heard it once, but I promise, this one is better than the last. The Cave and the Sun: Expanded Edition, if you would.

Yes, I'm very obsessed with the sound of my own voice. You would too if you were stuck in the Palace of Darkness for centuries, accompanied only by the cries of hungry ghosts and my nine late colleagues, droning on and on about crimes and punishments.

Please, Harbinger, just let me have my one last indulgence before leaving it all behind, once and for all.

Where was I? Ah, the cave.

Officially, it is not a cave, but the Terrace of Gonggong. But if you were born in the empty void beneath, amidst the pooling blood and endlessly collapsing earth, you'd never know. 

Whose blood, I heard you ask? The blood of Xiangliu, loyal minister of Gonggong, shed by Yu the Great, from which my kind spawn and return to upon the end of a single life, so that we may be born anew. Rocks weren't the only thing you can spontaneously pop out of in the age of the ancients, it turns out.

One day, a little bird and a little snake crawled out of the pool, like countless others before them, and didn't get eaten by their malformed siblings on the way out. Up and up, they climbed, until they were scooped up by the scaled claws of the elders, nine heads fully grown, and told of their destiny: nothing.

Yes, you heard that right. Nothing. 

That was all their kind were, and would be, sealed beneath the Five Altars, misbegotten ilks of the Floodbringer, whose blood and flesh were marked forever by the deeds of the Breaker of the Sky Pillar.

“So venture not into the light above,” they warned, even as their ramshackle nests sank deeper and deeper into the putrid swamp. “Our essences are cursed, stained by the transgressions of our forefathers. You will bring them nothing but misery and destruction, and be boiled down to nothing in return.”

And it was easy for the little bird to almost believe them, as she tore into the flesh of their malformed siblings, spawns of Xiangliu who had come back incomplete, in bits and pieces, driven only by hunger until they dissolved into the pool of blood once more. 

But, as always, the best way to get someone to do something is warning them against it, and the little snake is a born contrarian.

...

He heard the call while hanging upside down on a stalactite, tasting the copper-scented air with his forked tongue, trying to catch a whiff of the wind that slipped through the cracks.

They all did. Yet, unlike the ones above ground, it was a call some were still capable of refusing, dampened by the seals and reduced to a fraction of its strength.

Come to me, it said, and only the spawns with the weakest and strongest will listened.

"What are you doing, Ah Jiu?" The little bird yelled, hovering above the many-limbed tide of malformed spawns, stepping all over each other as they made their way up the steep cliffs. "Come back here, right this instant!"

The little snake did not listen. Could not listen. As he unfurled his own wings and followed the tide, the call had become a song, loud and mesmerizing, drowning out all the other sounds inside and outside of him, till only a single word remained: Come.

So, like any frustrated, overprotective sibling, the little bird took off after him. 

...

They emerged out of a sea of blood, covered in the viscera of their malformed siblings, who had slammed themselves against the protective spells of the seals, over and over and over, until a brief opening was created.

They looked into the light together, and it burned. Horribly. It's a miracle that they weren't blinded forever.

The little snake, who saw more with his tongue than his actual eyes, was the first to regain his senses. Whereas the world inside the cave was like a spiderweb, thin threads stretching across a metal-scented void, the world outside was a tapestry of smells and sounds and vibrations, stretching endlessly towards the horizon.

He took so long adoring this tapestry, he didn't even notice the little bird flying off. As fierce and practical-minded as she was, when she heard the call in all of its wondrous, terrible glory, she darted after it like a huntress pursuing her prey, an arrow cutting through the air.

If she was alive in this day and age, she'd be the sort of tourist who headed straight for the destinations, took photos of the biggest, most iconic landmarks, then spent the rest of the day sleeping on the bus.

The little snake, however, preferred to stroll his way there leisurely. Enjoy the scenery, even as the tour guide was screaming his name into the speaker, telling him to hurry up, for heaven's sake.

Why am I so familiar with such...modern stuff? My my, do you know how many tourists managed to die in the dumbest manner ever, and how many of them ended up in front of the Tenth Court?

Impersonating a king of the Underworld meant I got a share of the workload too, and I'll admit, after all the extra paperwork and inane cases the others had thrown in my way, it made killing them just a tiny bit cathartic.

Back to the little snake. When he arrived, the entirety of demonkind had gathered beneath a towering mountain peak. From its top, the call echoed on and on.

Amidst beasts and beings of all shapes and sizes, he could barely spot the little bird, her dark, iridescent feathers standing in stark contrast with the white fur of the nine-tailed fox beside her.

He was only allowed a single glance, before the call became a deafening choir, and a verdant banner, made of jade-like scales, was raised up into the air, by a stunningly beautiful woman with the lower body of a snake.

A goddess, she called herself. And she had summoned them here to topple a dynasty.

...

You have already met Nüwa, Harbinger. You know very well what she's like. 

Whatever you think of her now, I have a warning for you: do not ever see her as your mother, or your kin. Or anything other than a goddess.

We are her kin. Everything born naturally from Heaven and Earth, out of the Qi flow of Yin and Yang, whether they call themselves gods or demons——are of the same substance. 

And look how she treated us. Watch that banner, the Spirit Calling Banner, work its magic, calling us to kneel before her regardless of our will. Would you ever make such a thing and keep it in storage, just in case you need to raise it against your friends and family?

You, whom she molded from stone and clay, are not her children either. Not even the children of a terrible parent.

The best analogy I can come up with is a figurine collector and her collections. If my brief peeks into the living realm hold true, some collectors love their dolls more than anything. Would probably save their collection instead of all the other valuables, when a fire broke out in their house.

But figurines can't think or feel. They won't have a problem with being locked eternally in a glass case and having it be their entire world. They don't bleed when used in a wargame. Nor will they worship their collector as a goddess, or write a love poem to her.

If Nüwa was ever human, I'd sympathize with her disgust a lot more, when Zhou the Tyrant expressed his desire to take her as a concubine. 

Well, she isn't, and neither am I. 

She sent my sister and her new friends to tempt King Zhou and topple his dynasty, promising to release our kind from the Terrace in return, then executed them for doing exactly that. All because they had harmed too many of her precious figurines in the process. Honestly, what was she expecting?

This, I can never forgive.

I, however, am not poor Azure. I don't fancy myself a champion for demonkind, and my dear sister had made her choices, however unwise they were.

I have waited all these years, endured more setbacks than you can count, done my fair share of manipulation and sacrifices, for a goal greater than petty revenge.

I wish to shatter the cage that traps us all. Unravel the cruel threads of Fate and Destiny.

...

What do you know of Chaos, Harbinger?

It's scary. And bad. Hmm, I expected to hear that, yet I'm still disappointed. How very human——and divine, to impose morality and wishful thinking and arbitrary orders onto the unfathomable, the natural!

Allow me to show you a glimpse of the truth. The same truth the little snake gazed upon when he returned to the cave, and made his efforts in vain, to save those who did not wish to be saved.

This is Chaos.

The primordial cosmic sea, the warm deluge of nothing and everything. The potential for Life. 

"One begets Two, Two begets Three, Three begets everything." Chaos separates into Yin and Yang, and through the copulation of the two, Heaven and Earth and Life come into existence.

The spontaneous spawning of beings from Qi flows, from the mighty gods and fantastic beasts of old to your garden-variety yaoguai, as primordial matter divides itself——that will be impossible without Chaos.

To put it in simpler terms: remember the blood of Xiangliu? From the pool we came, and it's the pool we'd ultimately return to. 

"After everything you've said and done, I'm even less convinced that it's a good thing."

Oh, that is not an argument. Merely a statement of facts. At the end of the Great Cycle, when the process of division runs out of momentum at last, everything will return to Chaos and be reborn once more. 

An end that will not come in the next few eons, yet one Nüwa desires to "protect" this world from, nonetheless.

Confused? Need some time to process what you've just heard? No worries. Let me tell you another story in the meantime. 

Or, as I like to call it, the fable of the failed cosmetic surgery.

...

The god of the South Sea is Shu, the god of the North Sea is Hu, and the Lord of the Center is Hundun. 

The three encountered each other inside the domain of Hundun, and Hundun welcomed them warmly as guests.

To repay his kindness, Shu and Hu thought up an idea: "All humans have seven orifices through which they look and listen, eat and breathe. Yet Hundun doesn't have any. Let us bore some for him, so he can sense the world."

Everyday they bore one orifice, and on the seventh day, Hundun died.

...

"...What was the point of this story?" 

Who knows! Maybe it doesn't have one. Maybe the old human who wrote it was poking fun at the incessant need to find a point in everything, like he always did.

But my point, Harbinger, is this: death, destruction, all the scary stuff you are thinking of——these are not the essence of Chaos, merely the results of its division. You cannot have Life without its opposite, Yang without Yin; for every push, there must be a pull.

Thus, by dividing this world from Chaos, Nüwa has ensured its doom. 

Much like water, if you build a dam and only dams to defend against a flood, the silts and mud gradually build up at the bottom, and it's only a matter of time before the river overflows into an even more catastrophic deluge. 

By creating the Pillar of Heaven, what would have been nothing but a storm of Qi currents, a surge of spontaneous births and deaths in the ancient ages, became a disastrous flood that periodically threatened to engulf the artificial bubble once and for all.

It is her prison as much as ours. And when its walls fell at last, it would have taken every single prisoner with it, in the same way the Terrace of Gonggong has taken mine.

...

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, so the saying goes.

Unfortunately, the little snake is quickly disabused of such notions. In the decades he was away, the cave had grown even colder, darker, more dismal than ever. Fewer of his kin stood in the swamp, as more and more youths came back malformed, wrong, incomplete, the Chaos in their blood fizzling out with each passing and birth. 

Yet still they clung to the familiar, the corrosive certainty, the willful ignorance. 

“You have taken the brightest of us with you, allowing her to burn up in the light, and still you dare whisper your poison into the ears of the younglings? Still you wish to lure them to such a cruel fate?” 

Monster. Unforgivable.

Words turned into sharp retorts turned into accusations turned into screams, then, at last, pleadings, as his kin tied him to the heaviest stone they could find, then pushed it off a cliff, into the abyss where all the blood flowed to and gathered.

He sank and sank, further and further away from the nonexistent light of their warm bodies, for what seemed like an eternity.

Then he opened his eyes and saw.

...

He saw everything he had been, every time he had crawled out and returned to the pool. Basked in the remembrances of those he once called kin, clinging to him like dews on metal as he shook them aside, and gazed deeper into the blood-red void.

He saw the nine-headed serpent, hissing, sinking into and lunging out of the earth below as if it was made of water. Before it was a man with a face like weathered cliffs and an ape-like gait, who calmly held up his golden staff, standing tall against the poisonous tides the serpent unleashed with each of its breaths.

He saw the faceless vermillion beast, the winged tiger, the beast with human face and boar tusks, the horned monster gnawing on its own flesh, raging in vain as the glowing chains dragged them down, into the void between the stars.

He saw the red-headed giant, his snake tail lashing out wildly against the circle of fire that was shrinking around him, fueled by the burning man with the body of a beast.

With one last desperate roar, the giant leaped out of the flames, plunging his head right into the golden pillar that stood between Heaven and Earth.

A crack formed. He looked into it, and he saw, he saw, he saw it all——

Come back to us, the shades of the pool cried out behind him. Come back and forget everything. Close your eyes and begin anew. Come back, it's safe and warm in here.

Never, he said.

Then he reached into the depth of himself. Felt the little droplet of warm chaos, cracking, pulsating, dividing——and set it aflame.

...

He slithered through the blood, like a flame burning across a trail of oil. Past the long-submerged caverns where generations of spawns once carved their tales into the stone, past his writhing, malformed siblings, through the cracks in the collapsed entrance where a little snake and a little bird once chased after the echoes of a call.

The seals did not even activate, as he burned his way out of long-dried bloodstains, and emerged into the chamber of the Five Altars.

Meticulously, he shattered them, one by one. With each altar that crumbled, the earth beneath shook, and the cracks in the ceiling and walls widened.

He could sense the ripple in the blood, feel his fellow spawns dissolving back into the pool. It was quickly becoming a vortex in the lightless depth, as the essence of Chaos ate through the bedrocks, the thick Yin energy of the Underworld, the very fabric of space, returning to the great beyond where true peace lay.

A peace that would be forever out of his reach. Or so he thought, as the Terrace came down around him.

...

"Wow, you are even more of a monster than I thought."

Ah, I see what you are doing here. Such childish provocation will no longer work on me, now that I'm in the process of discarding my own childish indignance, my body sinking deeper and deeper into the primordial sea as we speak.

But still: if trying to save people without their consent makes me a monster, then yes. I am a monster, and so are you, Harbinger.

Please. You think you have found a true third solution, a long-term one? No, had Nüwa even explained it properly, what your sacrifice was supposed to accomplish?

Of course she didn't. So allow me. 

The so-called Great Cycle she spoke of is nothing like the real deal. It is as artificial as the division between this world and Chaos. 

Had I not awakened you prematurely, you'd have emerged into a cold, desolate, broken realm where all life had withered, yet was not allowed to be broken down and returned to its origins.

You'd have walked like a lamb to the slaughter, led by the last few ghostly fools of the Underworld, to burn yourself up inside the Pillar and reset the world. Moving it back in time to the very beginning, where life still flourished.

This is your true destiny. This is what she thinks of as a mercy, creating a sacrificial effigy who has no attachments, nothing to miss. Having never been properly alive, surely death will be as light as a feather to the poor thing!

"Then why did you still want me to sacrifice myself?" Have I ever told you that, child? Your decision was your own, whether I liked it or not. Had you said "No!" to my face and walked away to face the end with dignity, I'd have defended that decision too, and I did.

Either way, I'll have my exit. Whether swept up in the flood and returned to Chaos in bits and pieces, or...to a point where I'd no longer remember. When I'm still capable of making different choices.

Now, your solution is unexpected, not gonna lie, but still one that upholds the division. Instead of using five powerful support beams to hold up the broken pillar, you've made the entirety of humanity into its anchor, tying them irrevocably to the fate of the world.

If I were a true monster, the easiest way to render your effort naught would be killing off large swaths of them in one go, before they had time to fully adapt to their new reality.

As wonderful as it is, this new barrier you've created is more of a net instead of a brick wall, full of holes, and an emissary such as me can easily slip through.

This emissary, however, is not the one you should be looking out for. It's the exiles, and they are coming.

But I've lingered and rambled long enough, haven't I? Guess it's time to leave my doubts behind, too, along with whatever sentimentality for this world that remains.

It's a pleasure talking to you, child. I'd say "Don't miss me too much", except I know you won't. Literally. You won't remember this dream, even if you want to.

And when we meet again——if we ever meet again——I will be me no longer, nor trapped in this maelstrom of divisions. 

I will have merged back into the One, and I sincerely hope you will too, one day.

[marlowethelibrarian]

Writerly Questionaire tag!

@saturnine-saturneight, @the-golden-comet and @fortunatetragedy all tagged me for this questionaire! Also thanks to @davycoquette for the original meme!

About You

When did you start writing?

I remember writing a story for a first grade assignment when I was 4-5 and really enjoying it. They gave us little booklets that were just like construction paper cut into shapes with lined paper inside to write on. I didn't really start writing as a hobby until I was about 10, writing naruto fanfic.

Are the genres/themes you enjoy reading different from the ones you write?

I tend to write what I like to read! I like nonfiction on occasion which I definitely can write, I just don't do it very often.

Is there an author (or just a fellow writer!) you want to emulate, or one to whom you’re often compared?

No one has ever compared me to an author ever, lmfao, but there are some writers here on writeblr that I've got an eye on, with prose that fucking slaps. I haven't actually sat down and read their stuff yet for the most part, because my life has been crazy but from the excerpts I see on tumblr I'm like. Yes. That. That's great. How do they do that. shout out to @cowboybrunch, @fortunatetragedy and @davycoquette!

Can you tell me a little about your writing space(s)?

90% of the time I write in my messy ass bed my fitted sheet refuses to stay on. The other 10% I'm wandering to other places in the house.

What’s your most effective way to muster up some muse?

Write or die sometimes brute forces it out of me. Otherwise, brainstorming with a sounding board, answering some asks or tag games, or rereading my old stuff can all help me out here.

Did the place(s) you grew up in influence the people and places you write about?

I mean. Probably! I definitely do that thing where I'll picture the layout of a building as a building I'm familiar with. I've written a lot of apartments that look suspiciously like my grandparent's old house.

Are there any recurring themes in your writing, and if so, do they surprise you at all?

Yeah almost definitely lmfao. I keep noticing patterns after the fact. I have been circling the idea of dead worlds for one, and what it takes to survive there a couple times now. It's less obvious in project Cannibalism, but it's honestly still there.

Your Characters

Would you please tell me about your current favorite character? (Current WIP, past WIP, never used, etc.)

My current obsession is definitely Ravi, who is a dnd character, a larp character, and the main character of my Summer League OCT rounds. They started off as a gnome alchemist who is like just a back alley drug dealer when they got stuck in Barovia in a Curse of Strahd campaign. (Currently the only member of the original party still alive and aiming to keep it that way) I changed them to be a halfling when writing them for the OCT on a whim because it feels like a more grounded fantasy race to draw from without having to explain too much thanks to Lord of the Rings and its enduring cultural legacy. I've been greatly enjoying the process of writing, essentially, an incredibly traumatized character embark on a life or death venture among people who have no idea what the stakes are for them, exploring how badly adapted some of those defense mechanisms are for a regular ass place and how other people would view them, and how they would get there in the first place. I'd put them in my mouth and chew on them

Which of your characters would you be friends with in real life?

I can be a pretty sensitive person who prefers straightforward communication and positivity, so every single one of my horrible little prickly assholes is out. And that's a category I really enjoy writing so that's almost all of them lmfaoooo. I'd probably be friends with Wakma though. Wakma's cool.

Which characters would you dislike the most if you met them?

I wouldn't be able to stand Mala. She's consistently unpleasant and horrible to the people around her and I would not be able to let it roll off or just hit back like Rakani does.

Tell me about the process of coming up with your characters?

I like to develop characters in response to aspects I find interesting about the worldbuilding, or around a concept I want to explore. Sometimes they come about because there's a role in a story I need to fill. Wakma, for example, mostly came about because I knew Rakani absolutely needed a friend who didn't come from the Suyan hierarchy, and I already had this really cool idea about nomadic airship traders so I made him a diplomat from that culture, and then developed more of his character as I wrote him and decided what was important to the story.

Do you notice any reoccurring themes/traits in your characters?

Traumatized little goblins, people who aren't acceptable victims, who lash out and behave in unacceptable ways.

How do you picture your characters?

I do draw, so I do have pictures of what characters look like sometimes, but sometimes they're just blobs and I decide along the way what they look like. I do try to be deliberate about it though, because diversity in race and body types rarely just happens to me. It's something I work towards and am purposefully deliberate about.

Your Writing

What’s your reason for writing?

I wanna and no one's stopped me yet.

Is there a specific comment or type of comment you find particularly motivating coming from your readers?

i love it when someone points at something I did specifically about what about it they vibed with or excited them.

How do you want to be thought of by those who read your work?

Just don't look at me and expect my characters please.

What do you feel is your greatest strength as a writer?

Clarity.

What have you been frequently told your greatest writing strength is by others?

Well I think people have cried about my writing a lot, so it's quite emotional. I'm always very pleased when someone says I've hit on a level of some emotional realism.

How do you feel about your own writing?

I have great, creative ideas, but the execution could use a little work. I think my writing is pretty plain and worksmanlike, and that's like fine.

If you were the last person on earth and knew your writing would never be read by another human, would you still write?

This does absolutely open up a whole ass can of worms. jamie's right, how am i surviving here, if im subsidence farming I don't think I'd have the time and energy for writing. But like, I don't think I would if I knew I'd never have an audience. Even a small audience of one would be reason enough to write but if it's just me I might not.

When you write, are you influenced by what others might enjoy reading, or do you write purely what you enjoy?

I don't care what other people want when I'm writing. I only care when I'm editing lmfao.

i have not kept track of who has answered this or not so I'm just going to leave this open to anyone who wants this!!

[smolgloves]

The Perfect Crime: Part 3

Part 1 | Part 2

Summary: Tav has to deal with the shenanigans of two thieves.

Tw: sexual innuendos

There was an ethereal beauty to camping in the underdark, shrooms and crystals gave a soft glow that almost felt peaceful. In the years of traveling with the other monks, Tav never ventured to the underdark. As awful as the situation was, the parasite did help with expanding their horizon. 

Of course the company was a bonus too. 

As Tav made their rounds, they noticed Freya near Astarion's tent, with a plethora of mushrooms and herbs spread out on the table. Her eyes glistened like silver as she held up a cerulean shroom to a very exasperated elf.

“Oh, and this one is supposed to make you sleep for twelve hours!” 

“Can't you bug the druid with this stuff?” He sighed as he closed his book. “I'm trying to read.”

“He's busy studying some curse.” 

“And I'm not?” 

Freya put your hands on her hips. “We both know that book holds no importance!” 

Astarion's crimson eyes fell on Tav and suddenly, his annoyance dwindled away. “Ah Tav, would you mind taking your little pest somewhere else?” 

“Really, a pest?” Freya scoffed, glaring up at him. “That's quite a statement from someone who has a similar quality as a mosquito.” 

“And you're about as small as one, darling.” Despite the glare, Astarion smirked at the borrower, with her returning the playful gesture back. 

Tav couldn't help but chuckle at their banter. “I was going to let you feed on me tonight but I'm not sure you want to prove Freya right.” 

That prompted a snicker from her. 

“Quiet you,” Astarion turned his attention over to Tav. “I was hoping you'd ask.” His eyes lingered onto the halfling, before drifting down with a hungry stare that made Tav's heart flutter. “I'll see your sweet self tonight.” 

His voice felt like a siren’s song luring them in, Tav swore their knees threatened to buckle whenever Astarion smirked at them. Freya rolled her eyes, she turned her back to them and kept fiddling with the nearby objects on the table. Heat rose in Tav’s cheeks, the poor girl was an unwilling witness to their flirty banter. The halfling knelt down to give a proper apology but then they saw what she was holding; a golden ring with a shiny blue gem in the center. 

Their eyes narrowed at the unfamiliar jewelry “Where'd you get that?” 

Those gray eyes widened as she glanced between Astarion and Tav. “We found it…”

“Where exactly?”

“In that Selunite temple.” Astarion said casually. “One of those corpses still adorned it after all these centuries.” 

Tav studied them, seeing Astarion's charming smile and Freya's sheepish expression, they could conclude one thing. “So who's going to tell me the truth?” 

“Darling, what ever do-?!” 

“Save it!” Tav held up their hand. “You two can't fool me, so tell me where you found the ring or I will have to use the tadpole.” 

Their silence only further proved their guilt, it almost seemed like they wanted to challenge Tav's threat but finally Freya let out a sigh.

“The Zhentarim hideout.” 

“What?!” Tav swiped the ring from Freya's hands to examine it to see if there was an emblem hidden somewhere. The last thing they needed was proof of theft! Thankfully, it seemed like a normal ring. “Are you two mad?!” 

“Calm down Tav.” The borrower huffed out. “They probably stole it first.” 

“That's not the point.” Tav pinched the bridge of their nose. “I said not to steal from the zhents!” 

Astarion shifted closer to the halfling, giving the sweetest smile he could give. It froze them in place, making it easy for his hand to close around Tav’s and slip the ring into his palm. “Darling, please don't fret, we didn't get caught.” 

“For our sake, I hope you're right.” They sighed while slipping away from the vampire. “Why did you even steal it anyways?” 

“I was just drawn to its beauty.” He slipped the ring onto his finger to better appreciate it. “Perhaps it's worth a bit of coin.” 

He kept examining the gemstone, his thumb brushing against it to wipe a smudge off. A bright light flashed from the gem, nearly blinded the three. After a moment it dimmed down enough to give a soft glow around them, lighting up in a similar fashion as the glowcap mushrooms. 

“Whoa! How'd you do that?!” Freya asked. 

“I have my secrets.” 

“More like dumb luck.” Tav muttered. 

Astarion's smile only brightened. “Whatever the case, it seems I made the right call when I nicked this, it might prove useful in the underdark.” 

“He's got a point.” 

“Don't encourage him.” They let out a sigh, there was no point in arguing anymore; what's done is done, the only thing they can do now is to put as much distance between them and the zhents now. “Get some rest, we're going to that forge tomorrow.” 

As Tav turned away, they felt the devilish smirk behind their back. “Sweet dreams.” 

Tav rolled their eyes at his taunts. Were they a cruel leader, they would deny the vampire even a drop of blood. He was lucky to have a charm to him, but Tav doubted they would get any sleep tonight. 

[nestypewriter]

Unexpected Journey

[Male! Ryoba x FEMreader]

{Warning ⚠️: yandere tendency, emotional manipulation}

[Disclaimer: I want to emphasize that I do not endorse or support this type of behavior. This content is purely for entertainment purposes.]

Inspired by the basement tape #10 in yandere simulator

The afternoon light streamed through the window as you absentmindedly brushed your hair. Your vanity was cluttered with skincare and makeup, but your attention was drawn to a box of VHS tapes that was peaking out of the bed, each triggering a wave of unsettling memories.

You set the brush down, compelled by an unseen force, and opened the box. Inside, the tapes evoked dread. At the top, a forgotten tape recorder beckoned, your fingers instinctively finding its buttons.

Unbeknownst to you, a shadowy figure approached the door, and your mind went blank as you mindless slide across the buttons on the tape recorder before stopping at the red record button.

Suddenly, the door slammed open, startling you. Your trembling hand accidentally triggered the record button. You quickly spun around to see your husband, Ryoba, wearing a mischievous grin.

"Oh, my apologies, darling. Did I startle you?" he asked playfully, breaking into laughter.

You stood up, your voice quivering. "I-it's just that you caught me off guard, dear," you stammered, cursing your own nervousness.

"I'm sorry, love. After all these years, you're still so easily frightened," he said as he approached you, his affection strangely twisted "But I do love that about you" he purred.

Before you could pull away from his embrace, his grip tightened, and he noticed the open box, a sly smile forming. "What do we have here?" he inquired. "Are you reminiscing about our early days?" he added, looking at you for confirmation.

You nodded, not wanting to provoke his anger. He smiled with genuine joy and pulled you closer. "Ah, you're so adorable, my sweet," he murmured before stepping back slightly, still holding you.

"So.., what got you so excited, dear?" you ventured, your curiosity piqued. "I'm so glad you asked," he exclaimed. "You see, I just encountered someone I haven't seen in decades—actually, it's the first time he's seen ME in decades."

"Who are you talking about?" you inquired, your curiosity growing. Ryoba's grip on you tightened. "Aren't you the least bit curious?" he said, though his smile appeared forced. "Don't worry, darling. No one will ever take my beloved wife away from me," he declared, nuzzling your cheek.

"No one would ever dream of it, dear..." you sighed, the mystery of the encounter still gnawing at you.

"So, who did you see today?" you pressed, studying his face. "Oh, I'll tell you on our way to the airport," he replied, evading your question.

"Airport!?" you exclaimed, seeking more information, but he remained elusive. Instead, he kissed your lips and announced: "That's right, dear. Pack your bags, sweetheart! We're going to America!" he declared, leaving you in shock.

"We can't do that!" you protested, refusing to believe his words. "What about your job?" you questioned, but he simply smiled. "Don't fret, my dear. I've already spoken to my boss, and he was VERY understanding," he explained. You nodded, though still dissatisfied. "How long will we be gone?" you asked, hoping it wouldn't be too long. "I'm not sure, darling. It all depends on how quickly I can track him," he said, gazing upward with wonder.

Frustration built up inside you, and you clenched your fists. "And what about our daughter? Tomorrow is her first day of high school," you reminded him, unwilling to leave her alone.

"Well, if she takes after her dear old father, then she have absolutely no problem whatsoever in taking care of herself !" he chattered, leaving you in shock. "Oh, I hope she meets someone special! It would be delightful if she had a boyfriend by the time we return!" he continued, but you muttered, "I hope not."

Ryoba's keen ears caught your murmur. "What was that, darling?" he inquired, eager to hear. You feigned innocence. "Nothing, sweetie."

He clapped his hands together. "No more dilly-dallying, my love! We must get ready," he urged, but you had a different idea. "What if... you go alone, and I'll stay to take care of Ayano while you deal with this..." you proposed, but your husband clearly disapproved.

In an instant, he grabbed your arms, pulling you closer. "Do you think I would allow that?" he chuckled, his eyes locking onto yours. "I'm not a fool, darling," he said, his grip tightening, his fingers digging in, surely will leave bruises. "You will come with me,

No. Matter. What," he threatened, and you nodded, fearfully submitting. His face reverted to its gleeful expression as he kissed your forehead and released his tight hold.

"Let's get ready, shall we?" he suggested, looking to you for agreement. "Let me prepare dinner for Ayano before we leave," you requested, glancing at the floor, dreading his reaction. Suddenly, you found yourself enveloped in a warm hug. "You're such a caring mother," he cooed, planting kisses all over your face.

You tapped his back, signaling for him to ease up, which he did, and you finally broke free from his embrace. "Certainly, darling, but make it quick; we have a flight to catch!" he exclaimed, departing from the room to retrieve something.

With a sigh, you turned your attention back to the box and noticed the tape recorder was still recording. "Oh, it's still on; I must have accidentally hit record," you mumbled, then sighed again. "I hope you never discover these, Ayano," you whispered before pressing the stop button and carefully tucking the box away beneath the bed.

As you rose and headed towards the kitchen, you decided to prepare a large meal that would last for quite some time, at least a week for ayano. After all, who knew what lay ahead on this unexpected journey to America?

This is one for you (⁠*⁠˘⁠︶⁠˘⁠*⁠)⁠.⁠｡ @flipu5

[elspethdekarios]

Faerûnian 29 Day Writing Challenge: Healing

I know I'm late for this one, but since my tav, Elspeth, is a cleric and a skilled healer, I knew I had to write this one. Technically two... one from Elspeth's POV and one from Gale's POV. Enjoy!!

SFW / Gale x Female OC

Feb 11. Healing each other's wounds

As if the horrible, heavy darkness of the Shadow-Cursed Lands wasn’t enough, moments after venturing forth from Last Light Inn, they were ambushed by these wretched… things. Like trees, but twisted and demented by the necrotic shadows of the land. 

“Needle Blights,” Gale said as they sprang to life from the darkness, as if reading Elspeth’s mind as she wondered what the damned things were.

“Any idea how to kill them?” Shadowheart asked, grasping at the glowing mace strapped to her back. 

“The same way we kill everything, I suppose,” he said. “They explode with needles upon killing them, so be careful.”

Karlach ran head-on into the horde, almost cleaving one of the Needle Blights in two with just one hit. She slashed at it once more, dodging quickly to the side before the creature burst into dust, sending its needles flying through the air at a deadly speed,

“You weren’t kidding,” Karlach cried from the ground where she crouched.

“You two stay back,” Elspeth said to Gale and Shadowheart as she readied herself to plunge into the center of the battle. “Cast from a distance.”

“And you?” Gale quipped from her side, genuine concern in his voice and his eyes. Just the night before, he finally made a move on her after their battle with Marcus. While she was unsure if he reciprocated her feelings before, with the orb stabilized, he finally let her know that yes, he did indeed have feelings for her.

“Spirit Guardians,” she smirked at him before casting the spell on herself, radiant, gold dragons forming a circle of protection around her. Glaive in hand, she maneuvered to the center of the Needle Blights, each one of them thrashing in pain as she passed. One that Karlach had already done some damage to exploded on contact with the guardians, needles flying out once again. Elspeth shielded her face with an arm, feeling needles pelt into her armour. A few small ones pierced the outside of her leg, and she grunted in pain before taking a steadying breath and starting to fight. Healing would come later.

From the ground below, Shadowheart sent Guiding Bolts and arrows into the creatures while Gale carefully placed Glyphs of Wardings where Karlach and El wouldn’t trigger them. Just from a quick glance El dared to take after defeating the creature closest to her and protecting herself from the needles, she could tell he was distracted–his eyes kept darting in her direction, his face full of worry. She didn’t have much time to dwell on this, as another Needle Blight was closing in on her.

One by one, the grotesque creatures fell to their weapons and spells, a blast of piercing shards upon their death. With only three left, El dared a look down to Gale, now concentrating on a spell to hold one of them in place as Karlach bashed its gnarled bark in with her axe–concentrating so intensely that he didn’t see the monster approaching from behind him.

El called out his name just as a Needle Blight swiped its limbs in her direction, slashing stinging cuts into her face. She screamed out and stabbed the creature with her glaive, ready to hurl a spell at the one creeping up behind Gale, but she heard him cry out in pain before she could look. He was still standing, grasping at a wound in his side, and he hit the creature with a powerful spell, causing it to erupt in a red light before shooting its needles into him and knocking him to the ground.

“No!” El cried, hitting the monster in front of her as hard as she possibly could, dazing it so she could run to him, but the creature was too quick, swiping at her once more. Karlach raced to her, cleaving the thing straight down the middle and taking the brunt of the needle explosion. 

“That was the last one,” she panted as her flames began to die down.

Elspeth climbed down the stone she was standing on, running to Gale’s side. Shadowheart had already started rummaging through their supplies for healing potion. Kneeling in the dirt beside him, El surveyed his injuries. The side of his face and neck were bloodied with lacerations, the wound in his side a stain of darkest red on his purple robe. He was still conscious, but not by much.

“Gale,” she said as she untied the robe, revealing his white wrap shirt sticky with blood. “Gale, stay with me, okay?”

He turned his head toward her, mumbling something she couldn’t understand, and opened his eyes just a sliver as she hovered her hands above the wound and spoke an incantation. Turquoise magic radiated from her palms, casting a pale blue light on the darkness around them. Moving her hands away, she inspected the wound through the torn and bloody shirt. It was still red and angry-looking, but it was closed up now. Shadowheart handed El a potion, which she held to Gale’s lips as she propped up his head on her knee. Moments after swallowing, he was alert again, the cuts on his face beginning to close. El ran her hand over them with another healing spell, and they disappeared completely. 

“Are you alright?” she asked, his head still in her lap, her hand inadvertently resting on his chest.

They stared at each other for what probably seemed an awkward amount of time to Shadowheart and Karlach, who also sat around Gale as he stirred back to reality. El realized where her hand was after a few moments, but made no effort to move it.

“Yes,” he said. “Yes, I think so.”

“Good,” she said. “Now make sure you’re paying attention to your own surroundings and not mine.”

“I was worried about you getting hurt.” He rested his hand on top of hers.

“I’ll be okay,” she said. “Please, don’t worry so much about me that you put yourself at risk.”

He smirked up at her. “If putting myself at risk means you get to come patch me up afterwards, then perhaps I should put myself at risk more often.”

She was unimpressed.

“I’m joking, El,” he reassured her as he sat up. “I’ll be more careful. I promise.”

“Thank you,” she said.

“I think I’m the one who should be thanking you.”

“Can you two please wait until we’re back at camp before you start looking at each other like that?” Shadowheart said as she packed up the supplies she had taken out of the bag. Karlach only smiled down at them like a proud parent.

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

Viconia was dead. The Sharrans were dead. Jaheira was dead, Shadowheart was dead, but most importantly–Elspeth was dead.

Gale was alone. The only living soul in this echoing, dark cloister. He had one singular Scroll of Revivify on his person, and that was for El. They could figure out the rest later.

He climbed down the stone stairs to the open floor, stepping over singed and bloodied bodies at he kept his eyes fixed on the lifeless figure in pale blue armor that was still so far from him. A lump caught in his throat at the sight of her lying there, and his chest started to tighten. What if the scroll didn’t work? They’d always worked before, but… what if it didn’t? He couldn’t face this journey nor this world without her. Calm down, he told himself. There’s no reason for the scroll not to work. And there’s always Withers. She’ll be okay. 

He repeated the last line with every step he took towards her body.

She’ll be okay.

She’ll be okay.

She’s okay.

She has to be okay.

Gale approached the foot of the stairs where she had fallen, and a wave of cold washed over him at the sight of her. He dropped to his knees, gathered her cold body into his lap, and took out the scroll. With an incantation, it began to glow bright gold in his hand. He held it with a trembling fist, fear roaring in his heart until he began to feel the tingle of life stirring in her limbs.

“Elspeth,” he breathed. “El, my love, please wake up.”

Her chest began to rise and fall in slow, shallow movements. She did not stir at his touch nor his words.

Gale cursed as he dug frantically through his supplies and hers because surely there was a spare healing potion between the two of them. After emptying out both of their enchanted pockets, he realized that no–they didn’t. He could go try Shadowheart or Jaheira. Hells, he could check every single one of these corpses, but he couldn’t bear to walk away from her. Not even for a moment. It would only take a moment for something to happen, and he was not letting her die again. 

He knew some healing spells, but Elspeth was the expert. Although Shadowheart was also a cleric, Elspeth was more learned in healing magic and non-magic alike. She’d been studying and working as a healer for years, and undoubtedly knew more than Gale, educated as he may be. The measly curing spells that he could cast would do little to heal her–it would take several to get her back on her feet, and he didn’t have much magic left in him after that horrendous battle. No, a more powerful spell would be much more effective.

“Think, Gale,” he muttered to himself as he tried to recall the gesture and incantation for the powerful healing spell that he’d heard El cast only a handful of times. Syllables and magic terms ran through his mind at lightning speed as he tried to trigger any memory, anything that might make it click. Vis, he finally thought. Vis something… Vis curo? No, that was for multiple targets…. Gale continued running through possibilities until, finally, it came to him.

Vis Medicatrix.

He spoke the incantation and held his hands in the shape he’d seen her make while healing so many others. 

Elspeth suddenly gasped for air as if she’d been holding her breath underwater, her eyes wide as she sat up and took in her surroundings.

“Oh, thank the gods,” Gale sighed as she caught her breath, not even minding that Shar, whose temple they just slaughtered, was one of the gods he was thanking.

“Is…” El stammered out as she got her bearings. “Shadowheart… Jaheira…?” 

“I only had one scroll,” he said. “I had to get you back first.” Now that she was alive, breathing, talking, sitting right in front of him, he could finally breathe again. She pressed herself into his chest, practically sitting on his lap as his legs stretched out along the floor. He held her close and savored the warmth flowing back into her, the faint scent of orange blossom that lingered in her hair underneath the scent of blood and smoke. 

“I was so scared,” he whispered into the top of her head. “Please don’t ever leave me again. Not like that.”

She squeezed her arms around his waist, tilting her head to look up at him. Bloody, bruised, and covered in ash, she was still beautiful. Her pale green eyes were the brightest thing in this entire damned building. They pierced through the darkness like glittering gems in the sunlight.

She ran her thumb over a nasty scratch on his face that he wasn’t even aware of until it stung for a brief moment before healing under her touch.

“You can’t get rid of me that easily, Dekarios.”

Gale smiled wearily. As aware as Elspeth was of her “resting bitch face” (her words–not his), she was the most playful person he knew. He wasn’t surprised at all that she was making jokes after only just being brought back to mortal soil.

“I wouldn’t dream of it,” he said. “But if you keep calling me by my last name, I may have to start.”

He pressed a kiss to her soot-stained forehead and counted his lucky stars that she was here in his arms, very much alive.