#just look at how utterly adorable this is!!

[hummingbird-games]

2024 in Review (Indie Games)

2023 | 2022 | 2021

Helloooo gamer friends!!!

I'm so tired.

Lol.

Anyhoo, y'all don't care about that!!! Y'all are here to see what games I played and what the heck I have to say about them! Reminders: I don't bash games I didn't like, and I try to post more in-depth thoughts and reviews and general yapping to Gem's Game Gems.

DEMOS

When Stars Collide - I am by no means a sci-fi girlie. I need a HEAPING dose of fantasy or fantasy elements to help me out. That said, y'all might remember how I went feral for Gilded Shadows, so I am locked in for this journey with WSC. It's just as mysterious and lore intense as GS, but also just as intriguing and engaging!

Love Me, Love Me Not - I looooove when a game charms me to pieces??? Our MC Addie, the introduced LIs, the story, the art??? Where do I begin?? Anyway, please check this one out y'all! I'm impatient for the full game (shocker, I know).

Threads of You: Beyond the Bay - So my thoughts and reactions for this one are on the side blog, but I really enjoyed the demo and I have eyes for Chris, Vince, and Alex hehehe.

Lost in Limbo - While I'd been keeping tabs on this game for what seems forever because of the character art that originally caught my attention, I almost didn't finish the demo because it was lowkey disturbing (I'm a wimp and not all horror is made equal). But!!! BUT!!!! I push through to the end, had a good time, noted that I need to play the full game in the daylight with the music turned down low. And I absolutely adore Ara and Xal so, so much.

A Simple Twist of Fae - Absolutely no one cares, but I read a lot of manga this year. Like, a lot-a lot. Like, ~180 books and 1/3 of that was manga. Anyhoo, When JMB announced she was cooking up this game, I was impatient to get my grubby hands on it. AND THEN I PLAYED IT AND IT WAS THE SHOJO INSPIRED GAME OF MY DREAMS?!?! Like.....I wish I could both have it on my computer and also on my bookshelf. Final build dropping when??? (Also the UI design is utterly delightful, I cry.)

The Summit Library (FULL DEMO) - The last time I reviewed this game, we got chapter 1 as a taste, and I was. Locked! In!! The full demo gives us the first 2 chapters as well as the previews for all the romance routes and while giving everyone a whirl I'm *still* undecided on who to go for in the future, I must mention this: TSL is so aspec friendly???? I do love a game with smut, don't get me wrong looks at College Craze but sometimes I have my moments of being overwhelmed/sliiiiiiightly repulsed and the variety of options you have to choose how you react and interact with the various LIs in this game is amazing. (I have more thoughts on this, so I'll try to remember to post to the sideblog, but please understand that this game is totally worth your attention and time imo!!!)

Fully Released & Played (at least 1 playthrough)

Rabbit Trail - This. Game. Is. SO. Cute. *punches the air* 😭🥹(Copy + paste of my review on the itch.io page -> This was so charming, so fluffy, so cozy, just delightful all around??? I've only reached one ending so far, but René is just the cutest protag to play as, and his interactions as he delivers his mail made me cheese so dang hard! (Also, I wanted to fight his parents for not properly appreciating their kid LOL))

Stuck by Design - I checked this game out because I was looking into games that fellow programmers had worked on, and this cozy game stumbled onto my lap. The music was perfect, the UI is beautiful and clean, and I thoroughly enjoyed the performance of the VA for the LI, Yuki.

Wake Me Up If You Need Me - I called this game older!HSDJY MC x Ryan coded and I'm still right. The voice actor MAKES this game, and the interactions the player has with Reed is so flippin' delightful?? All my love and adoration to the game developer. May they make more beautiful games.

CTRL FREAK - The developer team brought us The Faithfulness of the Universe which is a banger in its own right, and CTRL FREAK is the team's commercial, finished project that I also found delightful. The soundtrack and the animations are chef's kiss 💛

Breathless Winds - Ooo, baby, ooo. So. If there is only one game you play from this list and you have some spare cash to spend (at the time of writing, the game is on sale!!!) please, please, check this one out. It left me absolutely spellbound, both the orginal demo, and then the full game. While I didn't get to blog fully about this one, and I only tackled 2 of the 4 routes, this game is absolutely everything. This is my indie game of the year. Poppy and her journey resonated with me, and between the music and the art, everything just came together so perfectly.

Wake Up Magical Girl - Listen TF up, if miseri creates it, I'm gonna play it, idc, idc. That being said...this game had a kick to it that when I finished my first playthrough, I had to stare off into space and gather myself. It takes the concept of magical girls and heroism and gave me a teeny tiny existential crisis, but other than that, I'm fine, it's fine, play this game, thank you.

Sleeping Under Spells - God, I love me a game where I get to argue with a LI. I love it. Bonus points if it's lowkey stupid stuff we're bickering over LOL!!

Our Wonderland - Yeah, uh huh, you thought you'd escape me talking about this game this year, didn't yah???? Too bad. The fifth and final arc dropped this year and I played it and I cried and felt for the briefest moments that life was okay. To say something different than my review of last year, I love that this seems to be the game that helps fellow ace devs find and flock to each other, I'm not kidding 🤣 so thank you Carrot for helping us fellow aspec peeps feel seen and validated and understood!

I Watched a Full Game Playthrough and Highly Recommend

Replay Boys - Okay so technically at the time of posting, there's still one more video I'm waiting to watch (Naja of BlerdyOtome uploaded her stream to YouTube) but my Godddddd. I've had my eye on this game for FOREVER but I was lowkey waiting for it to move to itch.io (I'm still a lowkey Steam hater 🥹) anyhoo, watching this absolutely wild game made me go ahead and buy a copy for myself to replay at a later time, but it's just great. The summary only scratches this surface of what the game entails 🤣

Gemi’s Gushies

(a list within a list of games that have devs trucking along in the background and I want to spotlight for y’all)

Save the Villainess - Life got away with me and unfortunately I never finished my play of the demo BUT what I have played was fun and I hope to return to this in the new year!

Woman of Xal 2 - Plot Twist Studios is on that Sequel Train with the next installment of WoX!!! Which I'm VERY excited for!!! I've unfortunately only completed one playthrough of this game, but the first game is definitely a masterclass in replayability, and I hope next year I'll be able to do a second playthough as I wait for game 2's Kickstarter!

...

And that's 2024! Any shared favorites?

- Gemini 🫶🏾

[morganaawriterr]

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ You don’t have to say it back;

Pairing; fem!reader, long-distance boyfriend!Ni-ki Synopsis; For a fleeting moment, it’s just you, Ni-ki, and the beach as he confesses his love for you before leaving for Korea. Genre; A bit fluffy and angsty - (this is very short) Warning; None, just Ni-ki being a cutie pie!

A/N: This has been sitting in my Notion app for ages (because I don't like it much)!!! Also, I am travelling so I won't be online much, but I won't leave you guys starving!! Here it is, I hope you guys enjoy it, likes and reblogs are always appreciated, thank you!

You love the beach; from the sound of the free waves crashing on the warm sand, to the smell of the salty water that reminds you of your childhood, and the thin, translucent clouds transmitting a calm peace of mind.

“This is beautiful…” you say, staring at the sun setting on the horizon. Shades of blue, grey, and yellow paint the sky like the work of the most skilled artist.

Niki smiles, admiring you. Your eyes glow in the sunlight, reflecting the landscape in your gaze. He can still smell your sweet perfume, and all of that drives him crazy.

“You are beautiful,” he flirts, nibbling his lower lip softly, loving the way you become shy at his compliments.

You turn your face towards him, and when your eyes meet his, it feels like the world has stopped. There is no plane waiting for him, no idol life, no unsupportive family, no beach or sun—just you and him.

“I hate this… I hate you…” you say, looking deeply into his pure hazel eyes. Niki reaches out for your hand and intertwines your thin fingers with his slender ones. You are cold, and he is warm. It’s funny how he is always your source of warmth.

“You don’t,” he grins. There’s something in his smile that makes you start tearing up. Maybe it’s the fact that you feel how genuine he is, or maybe it’s his adorable dimples, or his heart-shaped lips, so pink and inviting.

You break eye contact and pull your hand away from his. Your eyes are now focused on the sun, almost gone. It makes you chuckle. Riki is just like the sun—always slipping through your fingers, abandoning you, and leaving you in hopes that he will return once more.

But the nights are more interminable than ever when he’s gone. The moon is your only company on those lonely nights without him.

“I love you,” Niki confesses out of the blue, his heart beating out of his chest from those three significant words. He knows you are terrified of them, but he wants to be genuine with you.

All the air in your lungs seems to fade away like smoke, and you’re suddenly crying. Your heart shatters into little pieces. It hurts so greatly, knowing he can’t be wholly yours.

“Riki…” you call for him, trying to look him in the eyes, but he dodges your gaze.

“You don’t have to say it back,” Niki says softly, a modest smile on his lips. That’s the moment you realize how honest he is being. He loves you. He wants you. He truly does.

You laugh between tears and force yourself into his strong arms, craving his body heat. He closes his eyes and envelops his arms around you, hugging your frame and savoring your gentle scent.

“I love you too…” you confess, face buried in his neck, your cheeks burning in embarrassment.

At that moment, you overhear it. “Niki, it’s time to go,” his manager says, an anxious look on his face. He also wishes it was easier, but there’s nothing he can do.

“I’m going!” Riki replies in a more cheerful voice, utterly drunk in love. You whine when you feel his arms leave you, the warmth disappearing rapidly. You pout, making him giggle.

Riki gets to his feet, wishing time would slow down. You get up too and stand there cutely, staring up at him, waiting for a goodbye kiss. Niki does just what you wanted. His arms wrap around you as your cold lips mold against his. You pull away first, feeling his manager’s gaze burning holes into your head.

Niki smiles at you once again and then smooches your forehead lovingly. With teary eyes, you smile back, hating that this is your reality. When you see Riki for the last time, the sun is already gone. So, you figure it’s time to let go. You wave at him as he climbs inside the van with its thick, opaque windows. His voice, words, smile, and perfume are still fresh in your mind.

As the car drives away, you hug yourself, the raw wind making you shiver. A single tear escapes your eye, and you wipe it away with the back of your hand, a proud smile on your lips despite the sharp pain of goodbye.

From inside the van, as Niki watches you grow smaller and smaller until you disappear, he asks the moon to take care of you.

Taglist: @grandlightcandy @seokseokjinkim @strxwbloody @enhasunghoonishot @contyynishimura @heewanrik @ranwonbin @leanderexists @lovelyyf @youngheejay @crimson-reaper576 @rikifever @mrsjjongstby @laurradoesloveu @babyboomysweetie @mintchocos-things If you wanna be added or removed from the taglist just comment below!

[ Check out my MASTERLIST; ]

[arcanarix]

f! reader, geto being toxic as per usual

there’s many things yandere geto’s too prideful to admit out loud, but the biggest one is his desire to be needed.

specifically, to be needed by you.

nothing has ground his gears more than the fact that you are a bit too secure for your own good. on one hand, he should be flattered that you aren’t worried about stuff, but that’s not the point! he adores when you cling to him on nights where you feel a little restless for one reason or another! or when you look at him like he’s your hero, your solace, your reprieve from any harm!

and certainly, no harm shall come to you as long as you stand by him.

one night he discovers something he can easily twist for his own needs, though. sometimes you have panic attacks. some are milder than others, but during those nights you have spilled some of your deepest fears. among them?

being alone. which is never going to be the case for you, not if he can help it, not for as long as he lives and even in death (as if his death is going to stop you from being together forever and ever)…

but oh, he can’t help how his heart swells when you bury your head into his chest and sob to him about how you loathe the idea of being unloved, which isn’t true, you are so loved, utterly and completely and helplessly by him. how you think no one thinks about you or cares even an inkling about you, which is preposterous, he’s here, HE does care.

he can’t help it; this has healed that earlier blow to his pride that he hates that he thought you were too secure but you have your worst fears, and maybe… maybe he wants to see how badly these fears truly do affect you.

sometimes, he leaves you alone for longer periods. it starts off with just an hour or so longer than usual. then more. he knows most of the time you’re fine. you go about your days as usual, but he can tell it bothers you when he’s not as ever present to catch you when you fall. it takes one day where he’s gone for far longer during his activities at the cult that he returns to you clutching at his robe, tears spilling from your eyes because yes, he’s done it, he’s found a trigger… that little hint of uncertainty. and behind the soothing coos and brushing through your hair, assuring you that nothing has happened or has changed, he’s fighting off the smirk on his face.

fuck, you look so good when you’re the one who needs him. that night you beg to feel him everywhere, just for that validation, and of course, of course he’s going to give it all to you. whatever you want.

but he wants to make sure this sticks. and it will, the more he plays on your fears in the slightest of ways. you may never catch on.

[protectmylifelibertyproperty]

Bruce gets a cat.

How is not really important (maybe it’s Damian’s but in a classic Dad move, he starts taking care of it better than his own children), but he suddenly has a little kitty who he’s feeding and sleeping with and letting sit on his lap while he works.

Clark has… a lot of feelings about it. Most importantly though, once he discovers this, he finds himself listening for the little guy, just to double check Dick wasn’t messing with him when he let it slip. When he does finally hear the kitty, it’s purring and all Clark can think about is Bruce scratching the little kitty on its chin, letting it cuddle up on his chest, looking bemused as it makes biscuits on his cashmere sweater.

There are a lot of reasons for someone to fall in love with Bruce Wayne, but what keeps Clark coming back after the years of pining is how utterly soft Bruce can be for the things he loves.

Moving forward Clark can’t stop himself from regularly listening for the cat (because apparently it’s considered an “overstep” to constantly listen for his crush’s heartbeat- shut up Lois) and without an active choice on his part, he starts imagining little scenes.

When he hears the cat purring at 4:00am, he pictures Bruce freshly showered from patrol finally getting some rest, curled up with the cat, softly petting him while he falls asleep.

When he hears incessant meowing in the late afternoon, he pictures the cat begging for an early dinner and Bruce begrudgingly offering some treats to appease him, fighting back the smile he usually only reserves for his kids.

When he hears a curious Mrrp, he pictures Bruce diligently trying to call the kitty over to play with him. Holding one of those florescent cat toys, lightly bouncing the string, eyes soft.

So, he thinks it’s totally reasonable (SHUT UP LOIS) when he hears the type of meow he has only heard from their barn cats when they are incredibly uncomfortable (the type of meow the leans more towards a yowl and will make any cat owners hair stand up the back of their neck, the type of meow that usually precludes the cat being sick or the owner having to get their cat out of the wall) for Clark to fly over to the manner, ignoring is residents to instead speed straight for the cat to make sure its okay (that Bruce is okay).

Instead of finding any of the horrible things that he had conjured up as soon as he had heard that first meow, he finds the cat, its head stuck in a Bat Burger bag, as Bruce looks on with utter adoration, a soft chuckle on his lips. He’s still in his pajamas, looking soft and so unlike the imposing figure Clark usually sees at the JL meetings.

As soon as Bruce clocks him any softness disappears, and all Clark can think is Shit…Lois was right.

[kalinara]

So as someone who immensely enjoys disliking Charles Xavier, I have to admit, I was utterly delighted when the X-Men Unlimited Infinity Comic (in Krakoa age, one of the rare times it did not involve Nature Girl murdering people) decided to do what is, essentially, an "It's a Wonderful Life" plot for the guy.

So if even if you've never seen the original movie that the plot comes from, you've undoubtedly seen a parody or homage, (at least if you're American). Sitcoms particularly like to use the idea, but occasionally even serious shows will do it too. A character goes through some shit, is dreadfully unhappy, and is shown what life would be like without him.

Now the thing about X-Men, is that we did see what the world would be like without Charles Xavier in the Age of Apocalypse storyline. And admittedly, it's pretty bad. Scott has long hair. Enough said.

And of course, the gist of this story is that Xavier ends up in the Age of Apocalypse world (or maybe just dreaming about it), and introduces them to the Krakoa concept and gets a big ego boost.

It is what it is. The part that amuses me is what drives Xavier to the point of needing this ego boost. And it is an AMAZING level of petty.

Since there are a lot of scans, I'm going to put them behind a cut. Enjoy! (These are all from X-Men Unlimited Infinity Comic #62, by the way.)

So we start off with Xavier's daily schedule:

It's a pretty busy itinerary, admittedly. So now, let's see how Xavier's day actually goes.

We actually start off with Xavier waking up, disgruntled, at 6:00 AM. I'm not actually going to show this, because I am not a morning person either and can't make fun of him for it.

Also, he's shirtless, and not being named Max or Erik, I am not into that. Sorry.

But, let's look at the rest.

6:30's resurrection of Rusty Collins

Xavier was apparently a bit slow, and Hope decided to resurrect the dude without him. That happens. You can hardly blame a teenager for leaping at the chance at grown-up responsibility.

Also, she's a Summers. So it's pretty much inevitable.

--

So then we get the 7:45 meet and greet.

A small child adores Kitty. Kitty is a little meta here, but not wrong. After all, part of what the Marauders do, at this point, is rescue people.

Now, Xavier looks kind of neutral here, but given that this is part of the litany of disappointment, contextually, one must interpret this to mean he is disappointed.

But here's the thing, Chuck. You're not an "X-Man". You're the dude who sends them out from the shadows. You didn't even publicly admit to being a mutant for decades. And while, yes, you did have some physical issues that made being a field operative impossible, it's not like you're going out on rescue missions NOW.

Sorry, I shouldn't rant. There's more to mock.

--

So how does the 9:15 teaching session go? We don't actually know. Presumably it's not notable. Despite the fact that teaching is the one thing Xavier can claim he actually does.

Instead, we skip ahead to the 11:05 parole hearing:

I mean, you can't actually be surprised by this. I'm not even sure that Sabretooth is still IN there. But he's busy torturing people, if he is. So no, he's not getting out.

You could let the kids out though. Poor Idie.

--

This bit makes me laugh:

Got stood up by the guy whose mind you forcibly wiped. You can't be shocked by this, Chuck. That was a fucking dick move and you know it.

(Especially since you decide that Franklin isn't a mutant after all.)

--

How about the X-Corp Review?

Huh, who'd have thought that multi-millionaire business people would have the business shit handled?

I mean, to be fair to Charles, he does seem to never lack money, so he likely has business sense himself. But meh. I can't blame Warren and Monet for wanting to go off and canoodle or whatever.

--

I admit to some sympathy here, just a bit:

I've mentioned that I'm not a really a fan of the Arakko focus on Omega mutants, and how that kind of spoils my enjoyment of Storm basically being amazing up there. (I feel like it'd be more satisfying to have a non-Omega show them that sheer power isn't the only measure of awesome. I did like watching her use teamwork to kick Vulcan's ass though.)

That said, why did you not realize this would be a thing, Xavier? Arakkans make no secret of how their society works.

--

Now, sadly, we skip the legal conference about the X-Babies. Presumably it goes well and no one mocks Xavier, but I'm kind of fascinated by the idea.

But then we get the official Treehouse lighting ceremony:

...are you really feeling left out because your two former child soldiers are getting honored as "mutantkind's greatest heroes".

Fucking REALLY?

Are you living among humans and saving them from various threats? Heck, are you sticking around to help hand out meals, as the mayor mentions? Because you're not down there, and your itinerary says you'll be having a meeting about Orchis with Beast in like an hour.

It presumably goes well, because we skip ahead to sparring with Logan.

This goes pretty straightforward. They have a heart to heart, which I appreciate, because I'm still utterly boggled by that bit in X Lives of Wolverine where he claims that, despite their respective ages, Logan sees Chuck as a father figure.

By the way, Logan doesn't act like a "son" in this scene at all. He does give some legitimately good advice though and asks the question that's the point of all this:

And for FUCK'S SAKE, Xavier. The fact that this is apparently an armor piercing question, after a day where the WORST thing that happened to you was having a few appointments go on without you, getting stood up by a dude who's got every reason to dislike you, and seeing Kitty, Scott and Jean get SOME MEASURE of weak recognition.

THAT's what leads to the "It's a Wonderful Life" moment?

I mean, presumably, the interview with Trish Trilby which happens before the sparring match goes well. Meaning you're going to be on the fucking news as the face of Krakoa again. But that hardly matters because the Mayor of New York considers your SURROGATE CHILDREN to be the greatest heroes.

You couldn't even be HAPPY for them?!

(I also can't help but note that upon meeting AoA Cyclops, who assumes Xavier is an escaped clone and tries to kill him, we see no sign of the ACTUAL character's complexity or depth. He's just a random villain here. Because in the end, it's all about Xavier's ego.

He does refer to Scott as "the most pragmatic man I've ever known", which is a really interesting description that I'm not sure I agree with. But that's an analysis for another day.)

Anyway, as mentioned, the rest of the story is basically just fueling Xavier's ego. I mean, Age of Apocalypse IS a hellhole. (Though a friend of mine suggested once that possibly the only thing Age of Apocalypse proved that Xavier was necessary for is preventing Mr. Sinister from regaining control of Cyclops. I think I'd have to reread the story to see if I agree, but since I hate Xavier, I DO like that thought.) And he does bring them Krakoa and joy.

But I'm just going to bask in the fact that Xavier's deepest pain on Krakoa is that someone occasionally recognizes other people instead of him. I bet he hated Scott's Rolling Stone cover too. :-D

[snwusberry]

pairing: dad! seonghwa x mom! black reader

warning(s): food and eating

genre: fluff

wc: 1181

merry christmas to everyone who celebrates (it's almost 10pm here rn)

reader pov

the sound of overlapping voices fills the room. plates are being passed around, utensils clank against bowls and the smell of the variety of food invades my senses in the best way. the kids have been called back from whers they were playing to join us for the grand dinner we were all anticipating the whole year. christmas dinner with my husband's family and it's our 4th time attending, this time with yet another new born along with our four year old. now i know what people say about the father/husband's side of the family but i adore each and every one of these people.

however, i have learnt over the years seonghwa and i have been together that his family knows how to do chaos. they do it too well, if you ask me.

“pass the japchae, would you?” seonghwa's cousin calls out from the far end of the table, leaning forward and almost knocking over a glass of water in the process, making mr park let out an exasperated breath.

“relax ara, it’s coming. you act like you haven’t eaten all year.” he says, shaking his head.

“she eats every two hours like clockwork.” seonghwa jokes, dodging the chopsticks ara half-heartedly aims at him.

i can’t help but laugh as i scoop some onto my plate. his family is loud, hilarious, and utterly shameless when it comes to teasing each other,but its how they show love.

at the other end of the table is our 4 year old daughter who's sitting on a booster seat along with her cousins without a care in the world. she's having so much fun over there, i might just leave her here. she's busy chatting away with her uncle about lord knows what.

"uncle junho is eating so fast!" she exclaims almost too loud. she fits right in, i could tear up.

"i'm hungry. look at you, you're eating like a bird." he tries defending himself which offends her.

"no i'm not. daddy, uncle junho say i eat like a bird."

"she does not eat like a bird." seonghwa says, coming to the defense of the little girl which brings laughter to everyone around the table.

seonghwa's aunt—we call her aunt vera because she said to calm her that—clears her throat, drawing everyone's attention as she picks up the untouched dish from the table. everyone quiets down and eyes the dish. not a word being uttered in disbelief. good or bad, it's up to you to decide.

"what is it?" her son asks what i think were all wondering.

"its my famous brussels sprouts gratin." she declairs brightly as if she just stated the obvious amd the room falls awkward silent with a strained "oh" here and there.

"is that what it is?" i hear someone feintly ask and i'm almost certain its seonghwa's sister, seonghee.

9"famous where?" junho asks under his breath, earning him a nudge from seonghee.

i turn and glance at seonghwa who's biting his lip to keep from laughing, but the look we exchange says everything.

"well... thanks for bringing it." my mother in law says to her still enthusiastic older sister.

"oh of course. i thought i'd add a little something different to the table. a little western touch for our dearest daughter in law's sake." she enthuses, oblivious to the looks of everyone around the table. even the kids are quiet.

"wow... thank you aunt. that's very thoughtful of you." i respond politely and junho stifles a laugh which spreads to ara.

"you don't have to eat it." seonghwa whispers and i nudge him with my elbow.

"looks funny." seonghee's son says, breaking the silence and seonghee looks at him completely defeated.

"sweetheart." she breathes out and everyone laughs, including aunt vera.

"eunbyeol, dear. eat your carrots." my mother in law says to our daughter but miss girl hates vegetables. no matter how i cook them, she hates them. only way to make her eat is if i make a full vegetarian meal. then she doesn't have a choice.

the little girl just shakes her head vigorously.

it was worth a shot. seonghwa and i just give his mother an apologetic look.

as the meal continues, the gratin remains mostly untouched, sitting forlornly in its dish as everyone conveniently ��forgets” to pass it around. and by the time desert rolls around, we're all pretty much stuffed. i stepped out to breastfeed the littke monster who woke up screaming her little lungs out. seonghwa ran in panicking before he realized it was time to feed her.

"ready to go see everyone again my baby? wanna be held by big sister byeollie?" i coo at the baby who has a vice grip on my breast and is drinking for today and tomorrow.

"you two still good in here?" seonghwa asks, walking into the room and i nod at him.

"say we're fine papa." i prompt the little girl who is absolutely silent. the way we talk to babies needs to be investigated. "will you burp her?"

seonghwa nods and i hand him the baby who finally let go and he puts her on his shoulder and gently pats her back. once he's done with that we both walk out and eunbyeol is already in front of us.

"mommy, dadfu, is she awake?" she asks, her voice full of excitement. we already know she wants to play with her.

"wide awake." her eyes light up and seonghwa goes to sot down sk that eunbyeol can see her sister properly and her cousin joins in. seonghwa is smiling from ear to ear seeing how much eunbyeol adores her sister. nothing makes him happier than his daughters.

except me, of course.

a little while later, seonghwa joins me at the table where his mother, father, aunt vera, seonghee and ara are still sitting to have dessert.

as the night winds down, eunbyeol climbs into my lap, her energy finally starting to wane and seonghwa is in the other room with eunha and the guys. the room is still filled with the hum of conversation and laughter, and i feel a warm contentment settle over me.

“did you have fun tonight?” i ask her, brushing a strand of hair out of her face.

she nods sleepily, resting her head against my chest. “best christmas ever,” she murmurs.

yeah i know she's lying, she says this every year, but okay.

at the end of the night it's that bittersweet time to say goodbye to everyone.

i hug everyone, my mother in law giving me an especially long one, refusing to let go.

"mother, hugging her any longer, won't make them stay the night." junho jokes and seonghee flicks his head, causing him to whine. how this man has a whole kid is beyond me.

"drive safely, okay?" my mother in law says sadly and we nod.

"we will. bye everyone." seonghwa, who's carrying a sleeping eunbyeol says and we go to his car, settling the kids before getting in the car and driving away. another family christmas, successful.

[the-fiction-witch]

By The Fire

Media - Rings Of Power Character - Elrond Couple - Elrond X Reader Reader - Y/n Rating - 12 Word Count -1250

Fictional Advent Day Twenty Five

Elrond stood before the ornate mirror, carefully finishing his preparations for the evening. He slipped into his fine garments, the rich fabric of his deep blue robes shimmering slightly in the light. The white accents along the edges of his attire, highlighting the intricate patterns woven into the cloth. As he pulled on his tall, polished boots, the soft leather hugged his calves snugly.

Once properly dressed, he moved to the dresser, where he selected his prized pin brooch. It glinted in the firelight, and he attached it to his robes with a steady hand. Next, he turned his attention to the bedside table, where several rings lay waiting. Each ring was unique, adorned with different gemstones that caught the light and sparkled as he slipped them onto his fingers. With a final glance in the mirror, he ensured his hair was perfectly arranged.

“Are you almost ready, my love?” He called out,

Elrond turned and found himself unable to hold back his wide smile,

The chambers were enveloped in a warm and inviting ambience, thanks to the multitude of sweetly flickering candles that adorned every surface. Their soft glow danced across the room, casting gentle shadows that wavered like whispers against the intricately carved walls. The fire in the grand hearth crackled with vigour, sending sparks into the air as it devoured the seasoned logs, its warmth spreading throughout the space and wrapping it in a comfortable embrace.

Beyond the leaded glass windows, the enchanting elven city lay cloaked in midwinter snow, a blanket of glistening white that softened the edges of the towering spires and delicate rooftops. The snowflakes twirled and swirled gracefully as they descended, creating a delicate ballet against the backdrop of the city's majestic architecture. Icy tendrils of frost framed the stained glass windows, where vibrant depictions of the sea and sky came to life, the colours glowing like jewels under the ethereal candlelight within the chamber.

Y/n settled comfortably on the plush couch, her shoes elegantly set aside, her flowing gown that cascaded around her. The fabric, a beautiful blend of deep blue and pure white, mirrored the attire worn by Elrond. Adorning her neck and wrists was an array of silver jewellery, each piece delicately crafted, glimmering softly against her skin,

Her hair was a masterpiece in itself, styled into luxurious curls and intricate braids that framed her face. A stunning golden branch hairpin held the tresses away from her features. With gentle hands, Y/n cradled her swollen baby bump, her fingers moving in soothing circles, instinctively comforting the little ones nestled within her.

Elrond scoffed as he went over kneeling in front of her and resting his hands on her own to feel her bump’s movements. “Why must you do this?”

“Do what?” Y/n laughed,

“Look so distractingly gorgeous.” He chuckled kissing her nose,

“I cannot help it,”

“I know you can’t,” he smiled, “But with your sweet bump you’re utterly irresistible.”

Y/n chuckled and allowed him to savour his time stroking the bump, “Must we go?”

“What?” he chuckled,

“Must we go today? I’m sure my father wouldn’t mind if we didn’t attend, just say the baby is too tired.”

“As adorable as that would be, you know we can’t my love.” He cooed, “Come, you know you’ll enjoy yourself.” He smiled taking her hands and helping her to her feet, “And you know how they love the snow.” he chuckled giving her bump a kiss,

Elrond smiled and helped her into her warm boots and wrapped the thick robes around her,

“Elrond! We’ll be fine.” she laughs,

“I still worry,” he cooed kissing her forehead, “Shall we my love?”

“We shall,” she nodded as she wrapped her hands around his bicep, laying her head on his shoulder and snuggled up,

Elrond grasped her hand firmly, their fingers entwined as they stepped out of their chambers. Together, they meandered through the serene, snow-covered city, the world transformed into a winter wonderland. The towers rose majestically, their spires resembling the peaks of an elaborate cake, each adorned with a delicate blanket of powdered sugar-like snow. Fluffy flakes danced gently from the sky, settling softly on the vibrant plants, ancient buildings, and the wise, weathered elven statues that stood sentinel, their features softened by the snow's embrace.

As they walked, warmth glowed from within the cosy windows of nearby homes, casting flickering shadows that played upon the pristine landscape outside. The air was filled with a tranquil hush broken only by the sound of their footsteps crunching softly on the thick carpet of snow. Together, they savoured the quiet beauty of their surroundings, a perfect reflection of the peacefulness in their hearts.

Finally, they arrived at the grand gardens where many high elves gathered savouring the traditional midwinter wines as they prepared for the feast. Musicians plaid the soft and knelt yule songs as the snow fluttered down.

Many lords and ladies came to greet them wishing sweet futures and cooing at Y/n’s bump. Many of these lords and ladies had never spoken of much less to Elrond on account of his birth and social status but all now flocked to them with warmth and joy to hear tales of her pregnancy and any news of names, kicks and arrival dates for their children.

But Y/n and Elrond staid close never leaving each others arms happy to discuss their children till dawn if needed.

The feast was soon called,

“My Daughter,” Gil-galad called opening his arms to pull Y/n into a strong hug,

“Father,” she cooed,

“How are you fairing?”

“Just fine Father, they're very happy and excited.” she cooed stroking her bump, “And Elrond is taking very good care of us,” she smiled clutching Elrond’s arm once more,

“I do my best, my love.” He smiled giving her forehead a soft kiss,

“I admit I have concerns, how well a half-elf can aid such a-”

“Father.” She warned, “He aids us perfectly,”

“That brings me peace.” He nodded,

Everyone sat at the large carved table enjoying the treats and rich meats ceremonial for this time of year. All engaging in idle chat about the festivities for the whole of the long and slow meal.

When darkness truly came to fall, all the high lords and ladies gathered in the garden before the large tree that had been growing since last yule, Elrond wrapped his arms around Y/n and set his chin on her shoulder, his hands on hers as they sat on her bump as they stood by the fire. 

They shared some tender kisses watching as the tree was set aflame and the high lords and ladies began to celebrate, they watched as the flames engulfed the tree sending the bright light into the sky and causing the snow to sparkle and glitter like diamonds, 

“Y/n, My love?” He cooed,

“Yes, Elrond darling?” she smiled,

“The next yule we have, they will be with us.” He whispered into her ear, giving her bump a soft stroke,

“They will,” she nodded, “next yule we’ll get to hold them up to see the yule tree.”

“We will. I’ll happily sit them both on my shoulders every yule for the rest of my life if I must.”

“You will?”

“I will, my love.” He nodded, “And perhaps in a few more yules I’ll get to hold your sweet bum again?”

Y/n scoffed, “We’ll see, at least let me get these two out first!” She chuckled,

“Of course,” He cooed, “Happy Yule my Love,”

“Happy Yule darling,” she smiled

The two shared, a soft and tender kiss, and a warming stroke to her bump. 

[fandomtrash-whataboutit]

My TimKon ‘Would You Fall in Love with Me Again’ Animatic

(If i could make animatics :/)

Notes: The roles of Ody and Pen aren’t perfectly assigned bc Tim’s the one who changed but Kon’s the one who was gone, don’t worry, it’ll make sense.

Kon has returned to his normal time/place/life and has been thoroughly checked for being the real, original, correct universe Kon-El. Now, at last, Tim is able to go see him, and reunite with his lost love.

Is it you? Have my prayers been answered? Is it really you standing there or am I dreaming once more?

Tim says all of this with bated breath, not delivering the wild, enthusiastic welcome Kon had been expecting. Kon can tell something is wrong, as can everyone else in the room (I imagine perhaps Superman and dick and/or bruce)

You look different. Your eyes look tired. Your frame is lighter, your smile torn. Is it really you my love?

Kon can see that Tim looks like hell and he is slowly trying to piece together what has happened (I imagine that last part is met with some surprise, as few is any people outside of yj knew of Tim and Kon’s relationship or at least how serious it was)

I am not the man you fell in love with. I am not the man you once adored. I am not your kind and gentle husband. And I am not the love you knew before Would you fall in love with me again? If you knew all I’ve done. The things I can not change, would you love me all the same?

This section focuses on Tim alone, face shrouded in shadow or just tight and anxious. Perhaps one of those cool animations of the camera moving around the central figure (note that words like husband do not have to be taken literally here, because animatic. There will be a whole section like this later)

I know that you’ve been waiting, waiting for love. …What kind of things did you do?

Kon is starting to process that something went very wrong while he was gone. He is getting scared, steps closer, and makes himself ask because he needs to know Tim is okay.

Left a trail of red on every island, as I traded friends like objects I could use. Hurt more lives than I can count on my hands, but all of that was to bring me back to you.

This part might be one of those sections that writes the lyrics on screen to alter them. The first sentence shows Tim’s time with the LoA (note that I don’t subscribe to the belief that Tim like murdered a bunch of people, even if it’s cool to think about sometimes) and say ‘traded PEOPLE like objects…’ because to be fair it was mostly the LoA and stuff that he was using, he didn’t trade friends’ literal lives the way Ody did. The second part would be a big motif of the most obvious thing, the cloning. A literal shot of just Tim, looking miserable, and in the background all around him half-transparent parts of his lab and experiments. (Still Tim below)

So tell me, would you fall in love with me again? If you knew all I’ve done. The things I can’t undo, I am not the man you knew. I know that you’ve been waiting, waiting…

This part mirrors the first chorus with my fun camera spinning thing but this time focusing on both Tim and Kon standing close to one another, both looking utterly grief stricken.

If that’s true, could you do me a favor? Just a moment of labor that would bring me some peace? See that wedding bed? Could you carry it over? Lift it high on your shoulders and take it far away from here?

This is obviously the least literal part. I imagine the camera goes to Kon for a second to indicate who is ‘speaking’ then shifts to the YJ cave. I haven’t worked out all the kinks for this but I imagine something like maybe a bed because Kon considers it the first real home he had where he was welcomed and wanted by loved ones before Superman and the Kents go involved/got their shit together, something with their initials or the Superboy and Robin symbols carved into it.

How could you say this? I had built that wedding bed with my blood and sweat. Carved it into the olive tree where we first met. A symbol of our love everlasting, do you realize what you have asked me? The only way to move it is to cut it from its roots!

This part is a lot, obv. The first sentence, a short of present Tim, horrified. Second sentence shows a quick shot of a younger Tim and Kon, Kon’s eyes lighting up with laser vision for a second only for Tim to stop him and carve it into the whatever (bed, smth) himself. The third sentence not a shot of that specific place but the round table in the cave with Tornado and the whole YJ team. ‘A symbol of your love everlasting’ shows a young Tim and Kon looking smitten, ‘do you realize what your have asked me’ hard cuts back to present Tim, finally showing some energy as he gets terribly angry. (Note: maybe a quick shot of spectators before the last sentence but maybe not). Last sentence shows that shot of young Tim and Kon looking smitten getting torn in half, revealing the shot of the whole team which also gets torn in half.

Only my husband knew that, so I guess that makes him you!

Kon needs to match Tim’s energy here as he finally sees his Rob light up the way he used to be, fiery and free.

Penelope…

Tim frozen in shock, staring at Kon

I will fall in love with you over and over again, I don’t care how, where, or when. No matter how long it’s been, you’re mine! Don’t tell me you’re not the same person, you’re always my husband and I’ve been waiting…

Kon grabs Tim’s shoulders (you know the cliche pose) getting close to him and speaking vehemently. Maybe some shots of them over the years, canon or headcanon moments of when they fell in love. Emphasize Kon’s vehemence on the ‘you’re mine’ cus im a slut for that, and maybe Kon shakes his head on ‘don’t tell me you’re not the same person’

Waiting… Penelope…

Not writing out this whole section cus I’m not copy pasting the lyrics here I’m recording them as I listen. This is a collage of them, colors and moments all around them or snapshots of their past, maybe chronologically and having at least one shot of each of them while Kon was ‘dead’

For you…

As he says this, Kon finally grabs Tim and kisses him. He sweeps him up in a massive hug off the ground as the music peaks, they hold each other desperately close (i mean draw creases on the back of their clothing type shit). I’m also debating, because I dont have much knowledge of canon alternate universities in the comics, if there would be content enough to show alternate versions of them holding each other because they fall in love in every lifetime. As the music calms, Kon gently returns them back to the ground, pulling far enough away to press their forehead together

How long has it been?

Kon asks this, still not entirely sure how long he was gone

Twenty Years

Obv its different, it dont remember the canon time Kon was gone/dead, but ideally it would be shown in month, week, day, hour format bc Tim is normal (for bonus angst do the amount of irl time he was dead cus that was prolly way longer

I love you

Need I even say anything? Holding each other close, they’re both finally smiling

[shaunamilfman]

Where the Lovelight Gleams

pairing: Shauna Shipman x reader summary: Christmas drabble Christmas Masterlist

You hold Shauna's hand tightly against yours, stuffed in the pocket of her jacket in a pointless search for warmth. Shauna has insisted that you had to go out to see the light tonight, even though you would be there for the rest of the week. Why it has to be the coldest night in your entire stay, you aren't sure, but she was so insistent on it. 

It would be one thing if the town square was anything particularly impressive, but like everything else in her hometown, it seems to be disappointingly small. The worst part is that Shauna herself doesn't even seem to be impressed by the whole thing, which leads you to question why she wanted to come so badly in the first place. 

It's not that she's having a bad time, not with how eager she is to drag you from place to place with an adorable skip in her step. Every so often she stops in front of something utterly inconspicuous–a lit storefront or a lamp with an uninspiring wreath on it.

She'd gotten you to take no less than four different pictures with her in front of the big Christmas tree, even resorting to bribing you with paying for the hot chocolate in order to get the last one. You decided to be the bigger person and not point out that she was always going to be the one paying, if only to watch the way her face lit up as she handed it to you. 

Her cheeks were flushed, either from the cold or sheer excitement. It wasn’t like your girlfriend to be so interested in a place like this. Truthfully, she had never seemed all that interested in holiday events, so it had really caught you by surprise.

Shauna rolls her eyes as she catches you eyeing her hot chocolate, glancing away to pretend to look at the lights above you until she wordlessly lifts the cup up to your lips. You had your own cup, of course. But the keyword was had. That cup has long since made its way to a trash can. 

Besides, Shauna's tasted better anyway. 

You grin over at her as you take a sip, enjoying the way the twinkling lights look reflected in her eyes.

“It’s kind of lame, isn’t it?” She asks, bumping her hip playfully against yours.

“...I wouldn’t say that,” you say slowly, wondering if she’s trying to lead you into a trap.

“I would. I always thought so.” She looks around slowly, dragging you back toward the tree. You laugh joyfully, breath coming out in white puffs of air as she brings you to a stop. Shauna rests her head against your shoulder as she looks up at the tree.

“Then why…?” You ask, trailing off as you rest your head against hers.

“Jackie always used to drag me here with Jeff. Always insisted on not doing stuff like this without me, since we used to go together as kids. It just sucked, having to follow them around with the camera this whole time while he was all over her.” 

Shauna pauses, squeezing your hand tightly in hers with a bitter smile on her face. “They’d be laughing together, and I’d just also be here. I kept thinking about how much I hated it the whole time and how much I wanted to come here with someone who wanted to be here with me one day.”

You can almost see it: a teenaged Shauna getting dragged around the square by an equally teenaged Jackie, her gloomy expression matched by Jackie's enthusiasm as she directed the show. The thought of Shauna's broody expression behind the camera as she glares at Jeff almost brings a smile to your lips, but you brush the thought away in favor of imagining how lonely it must have felt. 

Despite how close she and Jackie obviously were, a lot of Shauna's stories from high school seem to have a common theme. The more you hear about it, the more you start to suspect that Shauna was the only one making herself feel that way, but it still felt real to her. Having an unhappy girlfriend this close to Christmas simply won't do. 

Shauna breathes out a sigh. “Well, it’s not that Jackie didn’t want to be here with me, but it just wasn’t–”

“The same?” You finish. Shauna nods slowly, pressing a kiss against your shoulder.

You want to kiss her right now more than anything, but the two of you are getting enough suspicious looks as it is that you don't dare to risk it. 

“I guess you got your wish, then.” 

Shauna laughs softly. “I guess I did.”

“It still sucks, though,” she admits in a low whisper as she looks around. “I don't think they even try.”

“How about we get some more hot chocolate–” 

“Highlight of the night,” she agrees. 

“And then we'll drive around to go look at lights instead,” you finish. 

“And maybe while we're in my car…” Shauna trails off expectantly, a hopeful note re-entering her voice. You could always count on her for one thing. 

“Ask again when the heater’s on.” 

Her laugh is quieter this time, but it feels lighter than before as she drags you back toward the coffee shop.

[yuu-kantokusei]

~The mischievous predator~

Jade Leech x gn!reader

Reader is yuu

Story: one shot

TW: none

Summary: After a magical mishap leaves Yuu transformed into a cat, an evening walk takes an unsettling turn when they cross paths with someone who seems far too amused by their predicament.

The day had been an ordeal, to say the least.

Yuu had accidentally transformed into cat during potionology class, their spell ingredients mixed up while Professor Crewel’s sharp eyes were momentarily distracted. Grim, surprisingly sympathetic (and amused), volunteered to translate their distressed meowing to Ace and Deuce. The trio carried them around from class to class like an unwilling mascot until the day’s lessons finally ended.

Ace and Deuce headed back to Heartslabyul after classes, complaining about the weight of carrying both Yuu and Grim. Grim, now more of a reluctant caretaker, waddled alongside them on the way to Ramshackle Dorm.

"Alright, you can rest up for the night," Grim said, flopping onto the couch as they arrived. "And don’t expect me to babysit you forever. I’m a mage of great renown, not a cat-sitter!"

Yuu meowed back insistently, their tone sharp.

“What? You wanna go for a walk?” Grim translated, squinting. “Sheesh, it’s dark already! Fine, fine—just don’t get into trouble, okay? I don’t have time to rescue you from some stupid tree.”

They pawed at the door until Grim opened it. A chilly evening breeze greeted them as they stepped out into the quiet grounds of Night Raven College.

Yuu padded along the cobblestone path leading away from the dorm. They didn’t intend to go far; the cool night air was refreshing after an exhausting day of meowing and being carried around. Their thoughts drifted to the potion class debacle, wondering how they'd explain the incident to Crewel when they returned to human form.

Just as they considered turning back, they heard the soft crunch of footsteps behind them. Before they could react, a low, amused voice reached their ears.

“My, my… what do we have here? A little stray?”

Yuu’s fur bristled as they backed away from Jade, their tiny body trembling with both fear and anger. They let out a low, warning growl, their tail lashing behind them. But their attempt at intimidation only seemed to amuse him further.

“Oh, don’t look so upset,” Jade said smoothly, his voice like silk laced with thorns. “You’ve always been the curious type, haven’t you? Wandering out here all alone, so vulnerable… Surely, you knew someone might come across you?”

They hissed, their eyes narrowing. If they could speak, they’d have had plenty of colorful words for him, none of them polite.

Jade knelt down to their level, his mismatched eyes gleaming in the moonlight. His smile widened as he reached out, his long fingers brushing gently under their chin. “Now, now. Is that any way to greet a friend? I’m hurt, truly.”

Yuu swatted his hand with their paw, claws extended. They managed to scratch his glove, leaving faint marks across the leather. A small, victorious feeling bubbled up in their chest—until they saw his reaction.

Instead of being annoyed, Jade’s grin only grew sharper. “Oh my, such sharp claws. Feisty as ever, I see. How charming.”

Before they could dart away, his hand shot out, and in one swift motion, he scooped them up into his arms. Yuu yowled in protest, their paws batting at his chest, but he held them firmly.

“My, my,” he said, his voice laced with mock concern. “You’re heavier than I expected. Have you been indulging a bit too much, Prefect? Not that I mind, of course. You’re quite… soft.”

They froze for a moment, utterly mortified. Then, with renewed vigor, they wriggled and kicked, trying to free themselves. But Jade only chuckled, adjusting his grip so they couldn’t escape.

“Relax,” he murmured, stroking their back with an unsettling tenderness. “You’re rather adorable like this, you know. It’s a rare opportunity to see such a side of you. I’d be a fool not to enjoy it.”

Yuu let out a furious growl, their ears flattening against their head. If Grim were here, they’d demand he claw Jade’s smug face for them.

“Oh, don’t be so angry,” Jade teased, his thumb trailing along the top of their head in a gesture that was almost affectionate. “You should consider this a valuable learning experience. It’s not every day you get to view the world from such a unique perspective.”

They swiped at him again, their claws catching on his uniform this time. He didn’t even flinch. Instead, he tilted his head, studying them with that same predatory smile.

“Hmm, still so full of spirit. I wonder… how much fight do you have left, little cat?”

Yuu twisted and turned in his arms, trying to escape, but Jade’s grip was unyielding. Their frantic meowing filled the quiet night, but no one came to their rescue.

“Shh,” Jade said softly, his voice dropping to a near whisper. “There’s no need to make such a fuss. No one’s going to hear you out here. It’s just you and me.”

The way he said it sent a shiver down their spine, and they stopped struggling for a moment. Jade noticed, of course, and his smile became almost triumphant.

“There now,” he said, stroking their head again. “That’s better. See? I’m not so bad, am I?”

Yuu growled low in their throat, but the sound came out more like a pitiful rumble. Jade’s fingers trailed down their back, and they couldn’t suppress the involuntary purr that escaped them. They immediately regretted it.

“Oh?” Jade’s expression lit up with amusement. “Enjoying yourself now? How delightful. I suppose even you have your weaknesses.”

Their ears flattened, and they glared up at him, their green eyes blazing with indignation. If looks could kill, Jade would have been long gone. But he simply chuckled, clearly enjoying their frustration.

“Don’t look at me like that,” he said, his tone almost scolding. “You’re the one who decided to wander out here all alone. Surely you knew the risks?”

They meowed sharply in response, their tone accusatory.

“Ah, blaming me, are you?” he said, his smile widening. “How cruel. I’m simply taking advantage of the situation you created. It’s not every day I get to see the Prefect in such a… vulnerable state.”

Yuu’s tail lashed furiously, but their efforts to escape were futile. Jade’s grip was too strong, his touch too deliberate. He was toying with them, and they both knew it.

As they continued their strange standoff, Jade suddenly shifted his grip, cradling them in one arm while reaching into his pocket with the other. Yuu froze, their instincts screaming that whatever he was planning couldn’t be good.

“Now, let’s see…” he murmured, pulling out a small, shimmering object. It was a thin, silver ribbon, its surface catching the moonlight.

Yuu’s eyes widened in alarm. They meowed frantically, struggling harder than ever.

“Oh, don’t worry,” Jade said, his tone soothing but entirely insincere. “It’s just a little accessory. Something to make you look even more adorable.”

Before they could react, he looped the ribbon around their neck, tying it into a neat bow. He held them up, examining his handiwork with a satisfied smile

“There. Perfect,” he said. “You’re quite the picture, Prefect. Perhaps I should take a photo to commemorate this moment?”

Yuu growled, their tail whipping back and forth like a metronome of fury. Jade’s laughter echoed through the quiet night as he set them down, finally releasing them. They bolted a few steps away, turning to glare at him with all the venom they could muster.

“Oh, don’t run off just yet,” he said, his voice teasing. “You’ll miss all the fun.”

Yuu hissed at him, their fur bristling, but Jade didn’t seem the least bit intimidated. He leaned casually against a nearby tree, his mismatched eyes gleaming with amusement.

“Go on,” he said, gesturing with a lazy wave. “Run back to your dorm if you like. But do remember, Prefect… I’ll always find you.”

Their heart raced as they turned and fled, his laughter following them into the night. The ribbon around their neck felt heavy, a constant reminder of his lingering presence.

Yuu didn’t stop running until they were safely inside Ramshackle Dorm, their chest heaving as they tried to calm down. Grim looked up from his spot on the couch, his eyes narrowing as he saw the ribbon.

“What the heck happened to you?” he asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and concern.

Yuu meowed weakly, too exhausted to explain. They curled up in a corner, their tail wrapped tightly around their body. The sound of Jade’s laughter still echoed in their mind, sending a shiver down their spine.

They couldn’t wait for this nightmare to be over.

[kayleighwinchester]

Everything I Wanted for Christmas

Well, y'all, after an insane peak season at Amazon, fighting the awful writer's block dragon, and lots of Christmas music on Spotify, we made it! @fangirlingfromdownunder, you were my SPNFanficPond Secret Santa recipient! I accidentally deviated a bit from the info you gave; the brain worms started doing their thing, and here we are! I hope you like it nonetheless - I absolutely adored writing it! Merry Christmas!

Seeing Dean settle into something close to ‘normalcy’ was a fascinating thing to watch - especially as the holidays drew nearer. 

The eldest Winchester had, you knew, never known much of a life outside of cheap extended-stay motels and the backseat of the Impala; Christmas had consisted, at best, of stolen decorations and gas-station presents, if those weren’t outright stolen too. Now, with the bunker, you’d had a front row seat to watch him, in an endearing turn of events, essentially begin nesting. He scolded Sam if the kitchen was left messy, got on your case about towels left on the bathroom floor, and became viciously protective of his own – and later, your shared – space within the Men of Letters’ underground sanctuary.

With that in mind, you were more than a little curious to see how the holidays would go over - how Dean would take to the festivities he’d never fully had a chance to indulge in.

This… Wasn’t exactly what you had expected. Not by a long shot.

Dean had ushered you out the door that morning with a handwritten list, one you were sure, now, was just an excuse to get you out of the bunker for a few hours. It included everything from vanilla extract to hooks for outdoor Christmas lights (where the hell was he planning on hanging outdoor lights?) – from tinsel to cookie cutters. Your suspicion was only furthered by the fact that you were quite sure that at least half of what you were reading on his chicken-scratch list was already in the many cabinets and closets of the bunker, or, at least, could have waited - this list easily could have been spread out over more than one beer run, rather than Dean all but shoving you out the door.

Still, you complied - though not without a fair bit of grumbling when the eldest Winchester didn’t respond to your ‘I’m back’ text, leaving you to haul the first load of bags through the front door yourself.

What you saw in exchange, however, was most certainly worth it.

Dean was all but fighting for his life, grappling with a tree that was, admittedly, a bit too large for the space it was in, if anyone had bothered to ask your opinion. It only took you a moment or two to realize that it was, in fact, a real tree, and Dean did, in fact, have help (that realization was helped along by Dean’s sudden, panicked, “dammit, Sam –” as the tree swayed precariously, threatening to drop toward his side). It took another moment or two to process that they had somehow gotten said real tree into the bunker - you glanced down, finding that you were crushing a light carpet of needles underfoot. 

“Come on, man, this shouldn’t be this hard,” Sam sighed out, sounding utterly exasperated with his older brother as you watched him try to get a better grip on the utterly massive tree. 

Dean bristled slightly. “‘Shouldn’t be this hard’,” He mimicked the words back, adding a grumbled, “shut up” onto the end. “Just need to get this thing up before she gets back -...”

You decided to spare Dean’s dignity for as long as humanly possible, quietly sneaking out to get the next few loads of grocery bags - all plastered in colorful logos from Walmart, Menards, the local mini-mart, and even one or two from Dollar Tree. By the time you were done, you were relieved to find the tree finally standing, the branches still settling, and Dean huffing and puffing, taking a long drink from a beer sitting on the war room table. 

“Looks good,” You called down, leaning against the banister.

The eldest Winchester went utterly still.

Clearly, this wasn’t all he’d hoped to accomplish with his few hours of near-solitude, because he let out a quiet, “Son of a bitch,” under his breath, scrubbing his free hand over his face, before adding a louder, gentler, “Thanks, Sweetheart,” though his tone still held a bit of exasperation. He looked up toward the door, pausing as he saw the veritable mountain of shopping bags around you, and quietly, sheepishly asked, “...Uh, how long you been standin’ there, Sweetheart?”

“A while,” You said simply, holding up the last of your shopping haul - a case of beer. He grimaced, scrubbing his hand over his face once more, motioning a bit helplessly to the tree. 

“Surprise,” He offered halfheartedly. “I was gonna -...” Another half-hearted motion toward the offending evergreen. “Ran outta time, I guess.” His shoulders slumped just slightly, and he took another drink of his beer.

“Decorate it?” You guessed, and he nodded. “De, we can do that together. I figured we would. That’s kind’a the whole point.” 

“Yeah, yeah, I know, I just -...” He grumbles softly. “Wanted to surprise you.” 

“I’m not gonna lie,” You crossed your arms on the banister, leaning forward, eyeing the tree. “That’s a pretty damn big surprise, Baby. How the hell did you get that thing in here?” And for the first time, you noticed that the tree was suspiciously close to the nearest wall, and… 

You couldn't help but bark out a laugh. “...Did you cut it in half?”

“No!” Dean barked out immediately. 

Sam, emerging from the kitchen, helpfully supplied, “He just cut half the branches off,” though he sounded utterly exasperated. Dean shot him a withering look that really did define the phrase ‘if looks could kill’. 

“‘S not half.” Dean grumbled. “Just… Took some off the back. Wouldn’t fit through the door otherwise. ‘Sides,” He shot Sam a pointed look, “aren’t you supposed to be meeting up with Eileen? Y’know, somewhere that’s not here?” 

Sam raised his hands in surrender. “You’re the one that needed help with the tree.” He pointed out. 

“Yeah, well. Tree’s up.” Dean returned, using both hands – one still holding his beer – to shoo Sam toward the door. Sam rolled his eyes, staring up at the ceiling for a moment, before he disappeared down the hall. Dean’s own eyes returned to you, and, more importantly, the bags piled around your feet. “Could’a called me to help with those, y’know.” He pointed out as he took the stairs two at a time to begin helping you carry them the rest of the way into the bunker.

“I tried,” You commented dryly, holding up your phone and waving it once. He cast a glance down to his own phone, sitting on the table, and then back to you a bit guiltily. 

“Didn't hear it,” He said, looking just a bit like a scolded puppy. “I would’a helped.” He began to pick up bags – clearly attempting to make up for his misstep by taking as many as he physically could in one go. You couldn't fight back a smile that curled onto your lips at that, watching him take the stairs back down – again, two at a time.

The two of you made quick work of putting away the few actual grocery items – the beer, the baking ingredients that you had been entirely correct in assuming you already had around the bunker, and a few other things, setting the rest of the bags on the table.

Sam left for his evening with Eileen just as Dean was starting on the hot chocolate. The two of you had changed into pajamas – some adorable matching ones that, surprisingly enough, Dean himself had surprised you with – plaid pajama pants, lined with some soft, fuzzy material, and shirts with piles of gifts printed on the front, his reading I got everything I wanted for Christmas and yours reading It’s me, I’m everything – and matching slippers. 

As Dean worked on the drinks, you got started on music – you'd been delighted to find another cache of records in a tucked away closet, all vintage Christmas. Your favorite discovery in the bunker thus far had been a beautiful record player, still in perfect condition, and an ever-growing collection of records to go along with it. You had just gotten one by Gene Autry going, one by Dean Martin sitting ready for when it ended, when Dean came out of the kitchen, proudly presenting two mugs of hot chocolate, complete with marshmallows that just barely fit into the mugs.

“Alright,” He grinned, that wide, boyish grin, his eyes sparkling, as he set the mugs down, rubbing his hands together. “So, we got the hot chocolate – and eggnog for later,” Admittedly, you were a bit surprised that he had the restraint to keep alcohol for a time that wasn’t right freakin’ now. “So, uh, what’s first?” Oh, there was that look on his face – that expectant but uncertain look, like he didn’t quite know what to do with himself. That much, you knew, was accurate. 

“Lights,” You said matter-of-factly, a grin curling onto your own lips. “Which is probably gonna be the most annoying part.”

You could see the smile start to falter on his lips, his eyes wandering to the bags on the table. “Annoying?” He wondered. “They’re just lights, Sweetheart. ‘S gonna be fine. ‘Sides, they’re brand new. Not like they’re gonna be all tangled up.” He moved to open the first box of lights, missing the way you shook your head.

“Give them five minutes.” You warned him. "They'll be a mess."

You could hear his grin as he began opening box after box of lights – clearly, at least some thought and Googling had gone into his list, because he’d been very specific about how many boxes he thought he’d need. “Watch ‘n learn, Sweetheart, watch ‘n learn.”

So, watch ‘n learn you did. 

Settling yourself on the edge of the table, mug in both hands, you watched him start on the lights – and learned, very quickly, that he had no real idea exactly how infuriating the strands of lights could really be. His face was twisted up in concentration and frustration as the lights twinkled cheerfully, spots of pale gold dancing off of his skin. The entire affair was punctuated with several muttered ‘son of a bitch’es, one ‘oh no you don’t’ as the tree began to lean to one side, and finally, finally, four songs into the record, an exasperated, “A’ight, Sweetheart, you win. Wanna come lend me a hand?” 

You grinned, hopping down off of the table, setting your mug aside and moving to his side, standing on your toes to press a kiss to his cheek. “I’ll do you one better,” You teased. “Go drink your hot chocolate, and – what’d you say again, Baby? Watch ‘n learn?” 

He rolled his eyes skyward, but obediently took a step back, and then another, moving back toward the table, taking a seat and picking up his own mug in one hand, picking through the bags with the other. “We still gotta wrap presents, too.” He pointed out absently. “Wanna give Sammy somethin’ that isn’t wrapped in plastic bags this time. You got wrapping paper, right?” 

“Big paper bag on the floor,” You directed, examining the tree briefly. You were fairly sure Dean had to have watched a few online tutorials – your own experience with lights was something along the lines of wing it and hope they stay, whereas he had actually seemed to have an order he was doing things in. He was somewhere around halfway done with wrapping the lights around the inside of the tree, cords flush against the trunk, so you followed his lead. 

You could hear him rustling through the bag behind you, and hear his snort of amusement. “Y’got Scooby Doo wrapping paper?” There was no way to mistake the sound of the smile in his voice. 

“Figured I could either wrap yours in it, or you could wrap the ones you’re giving out in it,” You informed him, your own smile returning. “But I wanted to give you first dibs.” You’d reached the bottom of the tree, and, carefully winding the lights on a lower branch to keep them from slipping, started your way back up.

“Oh, I’m so usin’ it.” He said seriously. You could hear him continue to paw through the bags. “...Sweetheart. Darlin’.” He said slowly after a few moments. “How many different kinds’a ornaments do we need? Don’t think these are all gonna fit.” 

You draped the lights over a branch, giving them a warning stare, as if you could intimidate them into remaining in place and not tangling further, turning around to face him. He’d taken out every plastic container of cheap Walmart ornaments, and had spread them out across the table. He was examining them like they might bite him. 

“Well,” You drawled, “by the time I hit Walmart, I figured that list of yours was a wild goose chase to keep me out of the bunker for a while –” Catching your expression, he opened his mouth to protest, and you shook your head, grinning. “Don’t even. You know the kitchen like the back of your hand, Dean – you and I both know we didn’t need more vanilla.” He closed his mouth, grinning guiltily. “So I figured I’d stay out a little longer, and, uh – I kind’a went a little overboard.” Your own smile had gone a bit sheepish. 

You could see his mind working, the gears turning, as he examined the spread of ornaments, before he blurted out, “Thank god for Charlie. How the hell do people afford this crap?” You couldn’t help the loud laugh that escaped at that. “No, seriously!” Dean continued, as if worried you weren’t taking his concern with the seriousness it deserved – no, demanded. “Every year we drive past houses that are all done up with this stuff, inside and out! Entire neighborhoods! And one of these boxes,” He held up one of the containers, a plastic cylinder full of red baubles, some matte, some glittery, some metallic, “is, what,” He glanced at the sticker, “ten bucks? How many’re we gonna need for the tree? Jesus. And these are from Walmart!” 

At some point, you’d begun laughing in earnest, and even he couldn’t keep up his faux outrage for long, his own lips breaking into that beautiful smile of his again, his eyes sparkling in the light of the half-strung Christmas tree. He reached forward, pulling you across the last two steps that separated you, onto his lap, his lips pressing to yours. 

The record had finished and the room had gone quiet by the time you finally disentangled yourself from his lap. “Go put on the next record, De. Gotta get the lights up or we’re never gonna finish.” He huffed with a childish pout, but stood, landing a playful smack to your ass as he passed.

As Dean Martin’s voice filled the room, you stood on your toes, finishing the lights as far as you could reach – Dean stepped in for the last few rounds, carefully tucking in the end of the strand. The two of you stepped back, with you checking for any gaps in the lights and admiring your work, and Dean admiring you. 

Hanging the ornaments took significantly less time, though by the end of it, you were both covered in cheap green, silver, and gold glitter. Dean had broken out the eggnog and a tin of Christmas cookies Donna and Jody had sent over, and, as you put on a third record, this one Nat King Cole, the two of you settled cross-legged on the floor in front of the tree (with Dean dramatically complaining under his breath about his knees), the majority of the presents the two of you had purchased spread out between you. 

You’d worked in relative silence for a time, before Dean spoke up, his voice slightly tense as he struggled with the wrapping paper and tape, struggling to make something vaguely aesthetically pleasing out of Sam's present, but his words were genuine nonetheless. “Thanks. This was… Nice.” 

You glanced up, reaching for a bow to press into place on top of Claire’s gift. “Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He reached over, taking a long drink of his eggnog, staring down the present in front of him like one might some sort of crafty foe. “I never really got to do this before, y’know? ‘S…” He struggled for a better word for a moment, before finally repeating, “Nice.” He reached for a cookie next, taking a bite – you knew him well enough to know it was his way of deflecting from the emotions he’d just expressed.

“You’re welcome, Baby.” You leaned forward, pressing a kiss to his nose – his face wrinkled up, and he took a moment to process that, before he pulled you forward, sending presents sliding across the tile and wrapping paper rolling in every direction, his lips finding yours once more.

Everything he wanted for Christmas, indeed.

[flufflecat]

this is the most beautiful creature on earth and I will kill someone if it asks me to

[bird-inacage]

A Love Sea Gifset | Tongrak the Writer

"Are you trying to turn me on because you know I like you in glasses?"

[gingersnaptaff]

treat!

'"No. We leave tonight,” Rhiannon’s tone was ice. “We must evade the guards.”

“Yes, Mother," Pryderi huffed. "So you keep saying but I see no evidence of them.”

“Pryderi,” It was Cigfa who spoke and her voice was scratchy with sleep. “Just because you have not seen them does not mean that they will not have been sent out.”

Rhiannon hummed, “Ogrfan will spin the net about us slowly at first. We will not even see it coming until he finally wrenches it and traps us.”

“Ach, surely not! If he’d any sense he would've enacted such a thing now instead of waiting.”

“Your mother is right,” Cigfa whispered, pursing her lips. “The things that we witnessed in his caer would make your blood run cold. We must gather up what we can and go. We are wasting time squabbling like washerwomen.”

“There’s barely even anything to take!”

“Good!” Cigfa’s disdain was apparently even from my place on Manawydan’s lap. “Then it will attract less attention when I grab you about your beard and throw you into the river for being brainless. Truly you are your father’s son! Must I explain everything to you?”

“I am only stupid when it suits me." Pryderi insisted. "If it is your will that we go now, then we will. This has been such a roundabout conversation that I feel that I am far more blockheaded than when we started.”

“That remains to be seen but I am sure that it will become certain, of that I have no doubt.” Grass crunched beneath Cigfa’s boots, and I knew that she was getting up off the ground.

Pryderi and Rhiannon followed suit, both sighing in relief at the clicking on their bones as they rose too as Manawydan murmured in my ear that he would carry me for the journey.

“Don’t get too tired,” I slurred. “’M heavy. Father used to tell me that.”

“Yes, Gwyn bach, I’m sure that you are, but I am not your father. You can rest again if you wish. I will wake you when we arrive.” His blue eyes crinkled as he smiled.'

[amtrak12]

[nicoscheer]

He not only taught him Alex’s smirk he also taught him his half closed eyes 😭🤣🤣💅