#just realized melt (my beloved) was my first 5*

[storage1234567890]

figured I should post all the rolls I screenshotted over the years

[moscnios]

may i request for katakuri angst to fluff hcs with a gn!reader? katakuri finally reveals his face to s/o. but expecting them to be repulsed by his mouth, reader kisses him and he just breaks down in tears because he's never been kissed by anyone before? 🥺🥺

✸  headcanons  %  when he reveals his face to you.

✸    characters! . . .  katakuri.

✸   cw(s)! . . .  n/a. no pronouns used. not proofread.

✸    notes! . . .  i love him so much actually. kata, my beloved. so when i saw this request i was so happy !! thank you so much for requesting !! <333

it took him a lot of internal monologues to get to this point. he tried to weigh the pros and cons

the pros were you would finally know what he looked like underneath his scarf and he would have nothing more to hide from you

the cons...you would think he looked like a monster and he’d be devasted

to him, but the cons outweighed the pros

despite only dating for around 5 months, katakuri was utterly in love with you. he’d never felt this way about anyone before. you make him whole

the thought of losing you because of his appearance worried him, as it has ruined nearly every good thing in his life. he couldn’t let it ruin his chance at love too

but if he wanted your relationship to grow further, he had to know he could trust you, to know that you would love him no matter how he looked

he takes you on a late night walk in a more secluded area of the park near your home. he can’t risk anyone else seeing. you sit next to him in the sugar grass, looking up at the pretty stars in the sky

you hear him take a deep sigh. you look at him and ask if anything is wrong when he reaches for his scarf, hesitating a bit

you realize what he is trying to do, “kata, if you aren’t ready to show me then you don’t have to. i can wait as long as i need to. i love you”

he appreciates hearing you say that

“and i love you, which is why i must show you. i do not wish to hide who i am from the one i love anymore” his words are sincere. this was it

he turned away from you, unraveling his scarf and setting it down in the grass. he closed his eyes, as he turned back to you, not wanting to see the disappointment on your face when you saw the monster he really was underneath

he was ready for a gasp, a scream, an “oh my god”, anything

but he didn’t hear any of those

“you’re so cute”

his eyes shot open at your words, a deep blush formed on his cheeks. no one has ever said such kind words about his mouth

he nearly couldn’t believe it, but seeing your face...he knew that you meant what you said

“may i kiss you?” if his face could be any redder, it would have been. he can only nod, leaning down a bit so you can actually reach his face

you press gentle pecks to both his cheeks before capturing his lips in a soft, loving kiss. you smiled against his lips, finally being able to kiss your lover for the first time

you feel him melt into the kiss, his insecurities and stresses melting along with it, his hands coming up to gently frame your face

you pull away, opening your eyes to see him teary-eyed. you immediately tense up, asking if you had done something wrong

he quickly tells you, that he enjoyed the kiss. it’s just that he’s overwhelmed in a good way, as he’s never been kissed. and that you wanted to kiss him even after you knew what his mouth looked like

he’s so precious <333

© MANGEKYUOU.

[lalizah]

1, 2, 3 for NatexLiz // 4,5,6 for MasonxLiz beloveds, please! 🥰 (~agentnatesewell)

Hello lovely!!! Happy to see you here ahhh!

For Nate x Liz:

What, specifically, was the catalyst for their physical attraction (if applicable) to the other character? In other words, what in particular had them like “Oh, they’re...hot...”

For Liz, it was definitely Nate being all charming and not being an ass lol. They started out as friends though, and even if Liz thought he was strikingly attractive, she felt fine being friends and didn't think about it further.

For Nate, it was just general attraction. I think he felt more attracted after the Reveal and how Liz sought him out the most afterwards. Her openness, expressive and easy-going nature drew him in, especially since he struggles with letting someone see all of him.

2. Does this change over time? What things do they find “hot” about their partner after they’ve been together for some time, and have had more time to, well, notice and appreciate?

Nate fell first, and Liz fell harder haha. Liz loves the way everything changes around him, it becomes softer, kinder, and brighter. The way he appreciates things, people, and their experiences. His curiosity and how he listens to her like everything she's saying is absolutely important. The little things he'll do to get closer, to be nearer, and unbeknownst to him, his intoxicating presence, which drives her crazy while his hand on hers keeps her tethered.

Nate finds anything Liz does hot lol. He loves her little rituals with things and feels trusted when she asks him to be with her with things she'd otherwise do alone.

3. By contrast, what was the moment that first made their ~heart~ Soft for the other person? Not necessarily a conscious realization of “I love this person,” but a moment that had them like “Oh…I adore them…”

For Liz, it was when they had the conversation about him leaving before Murphy kidnapped her. She didn't realise how painful not seeing him would be until then. And when they met again at the warehouse, how he missed her just as much as she missed him. She didn't know it was love then, but she also knew that she wouldn't feel this way about anyone else.

For Nate, it was the carnival, where they had their fake date. He knew he wanted more dates, more of just them together.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

For Mason x Liz:

4. Does this change over time? What will always reliably make them melt with how much they adore the other character?

Liz melts when Mason cares and kind of stumbles over showing it lol. She knows he's trying, and it makes her adore him all the more.

Mason loves it when Liz finds ways to make things easier for him. Bringing a mini fan and umbrella in the summer, an extra coat and scarf (he's got his own collection of all of her scarves but he's not returning them anytime soon) when it's cold, evenings spent away from the town and just in nature.

5.How do they consciously realize that they like the other character? Does it take them a while?

Both of them are dumbasses when it comes to love lol. But I think they realise it at the same time, that this isn't just friendship or what they feel for the others on the team, it's more. It's unbearable for Mason to not have Liz at his side and unfathomable for Liz to want anyone but him.

6. How do they react to the realization that they like the other character? Is it an “oh my god I’m never going to think about this again” thing, or are they pretty comfortable with it?

Mason's pretty chill until Felix tells him he actually has to tell Liz, lol. The confession has him worrying a bit (and maybe, even though he won't admit it, the thought that she might not want him the way he wants her) but he's put out of his misery when Liz just confesses. Liz is pretty comfortable with it and definitely happy. She showed up to her daily sparring session with a smile on her face instead of the look of dread and it had Ava concerned and Nat amused.

ahhh these were so fun to answer, thank you for sending them in lovely!

[antimonyandthyme]

Tagged by the lovely @badboy-george and @rosyjuly for the 20 questions for fic writers game, thank you! <33

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

62!

2. What’s your total AO3 word count?

196,925

3. What fandoms do you write for?

Currently it's only F1, but I've written for a bunch of anime fandoms like Haikyuu! and Daiya no Ace (even in anime I can't escape sports) and Naruto of course. And some movie ones like Tenet. And some random others. Like the Epic 7 and Fire Emblem game.

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

The Cloud That Settles (sewis), then If You Don't Play, You'll Never Win (lestappen), then Treading Softly in My Head (martian), then All the Miles We Have to Shed (martian), then Shutter Speed (martian). Special mention to the sixth in line But I Exist to Serve the Master, which I think was the first fic up on ao3 for The Gentlemen (2019) fandom kekekeke.

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

Yes, absolutely. I have a backlog at the moment which I feel a little guilty about because I want anyone who's commented to know their words and thoughts are so beloved to me, and sometimes when someone leaves a wonderfully thoughtful comment it takes me ages to respond because I want to respond in kind.

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

Spring Cleaning (maxiel) or this prosenna tumblr ficlet

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Hmm. Looking through my fics I realize they often end on a very happy, resolved, or hopeful note. It'd be tough for me to choose the happiest. Maybe Down in the Depths We Make Our Home (sebchal pacific rim au), just for how complete it felt at the end.

8. Do you get hate on fics?

Not in the traditional sense, like I hate your writing! kind of thing. I've had some odd comments that I genuinely think weren't meant to be mean but have made me question some aspects of my writing, and I've learned to take those in stride. I'm also very very lucky to be surrounded by beloved people who have everlasting patience for my huehuehues.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

Kekekeke. Y E S. I love doing so. I'm not sure I can describe what kind, I'm into so many flavours. The really, really horny kind? *me scrolling through my ao3* Oh wow yes the really, really, really horny kind.

10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written?

I have not! Only AUs at the moment. The craziest AU I've ever thought of was probably an F1 Chainsaw Man AU.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

I don't believe so!

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Yes! I've had If You Don't Play, You'll Never Win and Melt Your Aches and Call This Home (a baseball anime fic) translated into Chinese. Reading them has been a delight and a lesson all in one!

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

No, but I am in talks with... some beloved people...

14. What’s your all time favourite ship?

All time! Hmm. Hmm! Naruto/Sasuke my og pairing probably. But Martian and Sebmick are right up there too.

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

Huehuehue. I have a bunch languishing in my drafts at the moment. Rosquez, seb4seb, sebastidan wips are most in danger because my interest in them crests super hard one day and wanes the next. *sees a gif* *is inspired* *sees a gif of something else* *forgets*

16. What are your writing strengths?

Narrative voicing I think? A very clear, defining character arc. I've been told the porn's pretty good too, while being very emotional.

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Long fic. Ah, geez. There are so many stories in my head that could only be done justice if I had the patience to take my time with it, put in the hours, put in the words, put in the work. But I'm very easily distracted by shiny things unfortunately. I also worry I write the characters the same across fics. Like my Sebs, I worry that he's getting a little too consistent and predictable even in vastly different works.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

I probably wouldn't, I would worry too much about whether I got the nuances and grammar and structure and voicing right.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

Probably Naruto?

20. Favourite fic you’ve written?

This changes depends on the day you ask. At the moment it's actually my prosenna tumblr fics, which upon every reread I find myself liking more. (The real fave fave fic is something I chatficced with @rosyjuly that I hope will one day see the light of day)

No pressure tagging if you'd like to play! @sebrrari @effervescentdragon @ayceeofspades @loveisworry @wewentcarracing

[tabswrites]

7 Snippets 7 People

Tagged by @avrablake here!

Gently tagging: @mysticstarlightduck @winterandwords @athenswrites @pheita

All right, let’s give this a whirl.

From Tomb of Light, Ch. 1

Following the same path she had taken three years before, Mara raced down the dark hallway, making two left turns before reaching a small room. Dozens and dozens of heavily bound books had been crammed into every available space, the pages yellowed. The smell of mildew and lignin filled her nostrils and she took a deep breath knowing this would be the last time she found herself in this room. She wished, as she had the last time, that she could spend hours examining every book, every page. A large piece of parchment caught the corner of her eye and she spun around excitedly. It was unsurprising to her that the very item she had been exiled for reading had been returned to the exact same place, frozen in time like a statue commemorating her transgressions. The Rothe family honestly believed no one would dare repeat her near-fatal mistake; not even Mara herself.

From ToL Ch. 2

Mara glowered at him with shimmering eyes. “Have you not considered that my life’s worth came only from the men who knew me? The poor orphaned girl, cast aside by her own father, graciously raised by Elder Herric.” Oliver could only look on mournfully as the fight washed out of her and she melted into the chair. “I was encouraged to study and prepare to take over his position and in doing so was encouraged to challenge the world. Our elders demand innovation to drive us further from the Old World and ignore the fact that there were once people that walked this earth, who could shape the world with a snap of their fingers. If my curiosity was ever dangerous, it was because they made it so. I sought that knowledge for Rothar.”

From ToL Ch. 3

They entered a circular room he had only seen once, on a tour during his initiation. The council room had been empty then, the oil lanterns lit only for dramatic effect. Today the raised cedar bench was occupied by six people, four men and two women. All the lanterns had been lit, hanging every few feet to illuminate the entire room. Shadows danced across the granite as their bodies moved into the light. The captain gestured for him to stand in the center of the room, then retreated to the corner to watch, hands clasped behind her back. It was the first time Adrin had ever seen her act like a meek guardsman, not the intimidating captain he was used to.

From ToL Ch. 4

Adrin froze in place, sending a cloud of dirt into the air. His head swiveled.

“Did you hear that?”

Mara continued down the hill. “No. Are we almost there?”

“Mara,” Hettie hissed. “Look at him.” The reproach in her voice was in stark contrast to her usual dulcet tone. Mara didn’t often do what others asked of her, but this time she chose to listen. She stopped at the bottom of the hill and turned to see Hettie, paused midway down. Mara’s head cocked to the side as she surveyed the otherwise empty forest.

“Where did he go?”

From ToL Ch. 5

She remembered what he had said when they were walking to the compound.

It’s only my first day. There’s still time to break me.

Her arms were around him in an instant and as she exhaled, she finally let forth the flood that she had been threatening to burst. She felt his shoulders shake and realized he must have done the same. It was too much. The blood, the anger, the hatred–all new to her. Perhaps in her isolation she had only prolonged the inevitability of life’s burdens, and now she was being punished for it.

From ToL Ch. 6

It was then he was forced to acknowledge what he had been avoiding–he was disgraced, just like her, and no amount of posturing would convince people to ignore the shadow that had settled over him once his uniform had been stripped away. He was a fool to think he could outrun it. The plain black trousers, gray tunic and black boots were all he had left–even his beloved sword, a gift from his father, had been taken from him. He had nothing left but a bitter taste in his mouth and the looming shadow of the girl he loved.

From ToL Ch. 7

“Do you think he’ll be okay?”

She shrugged. “Who knows? He hasn’t eaten in two days, at least. He’s weak.”

Hettie gasped. “You haven’t eaten in two days?!”

“He hasn’t,” she clarified. “I found some salmonberries by the stream, and I could catch a fish if I needed to–though I’d rather starve.”

“So you just chose not to offer him food, then.” Hettie sighed.

Mara didn’t like how quickly her disappointment buried itself in her gut. She was used to Henri treating her altruistic tendencies like a form of amusement. “He’s two and twenty years old, Hettie. If he can’t remember to feed himself, that’s not my problem.”

[its-a-rat-trap]

A beautiful tribute to Garry. I've copied the text of the post below, but there's a wonderful video on the page as well that everyone should definitely check out too.

GARRY ROBERTS, WE LOVE YOU

As I begin typing this, it's 5~minutes until Midnight in the UK and much of the rest of Europe, where so many of you live. There's something very spiritual about that time when it's the eve of the day everyone here lost someone they love very much one year ago, Garry Roberts.

This was going to be a very hard and sad post to write anyway but it was made that much more emotional when at about this time last night, I opened my email to discover the video montage of Garry, which will continue to grace the very top of Citizens of Boomtown until Monday, November 20th, when we begin something very special to welcome in this Christmas Season, 2023. The extraordinary Garry Roberts montage will never leave this website, though. We will find a permanent place of honor to keep it here for all of us always.

The video was sent to me by your new Councillor, Rob Armstrong. He's who made the video and also has others in the works. Given that one of my main missions is to bring Citizens of Boomtown as fully and vibrantly to life as possible and to keep it ever~changing, evolving, and incredibly exciting, just like the Boomtown Rats, themselves, it only took me seconds to see a new Councillor was born!

Rob became friends with Garry in 2009. Included with the things he sent me is a poem he wrote that's beloved by Garry's daughter, Lily. I was going to be starting our tribute weekend to Garry with my own contribution but this poem moves me so much and makes me feel like I know Garry even though I never had the opportunity to meet him or even see him play live, therefore our tribute to Garry will commence with Rob's poem and I will be adding my own contribution along with all of yours as the weekend goes on.

Please, everyone, contribute in any way that moves you at all. Think of this weekend~long tribute as all of us sending incredible amounts of love up to Garry, because we are, and he will definitely feel that. In fact, he's present here right now. I know that because he loves the Boomtown Rats and all of you more than anything. All Garry ever wanted was to be in a Rock 'n' Roll band (and ride his motorbikes!) and he did that SPECTACULARLY.

Please place your stories, thoughts, poems, artwork, photos, videos ~ however it is you wish to express yourself ~ in the Comments section below and let's Let The Love Begin. From one Stones fan to another, Garry, everything that will take place here is for you.

Love,

Jennifer 🤍🕊️🌿

******************

A LEGEND IN HIS LIFETIME

GARRY ROBERTS

by

Rob Armstrong

Thousands of people loved Garry Roberts.

A lead guitarist, amazing and bold.

You only needed to be in his company once

To realize he was solid Gold.

A founder member of The Boomtown Rats

Who came from the Emerald Isle.

A meeting one night in Fitzy's.

Formed the band, which gave him a great big smile.

At first Money was tight for the group.

With gigs few and far between.

One night Garry got paid in sausages.

Bob got a chop, which was mean.

Away from the Rats, Garry's passion was Bikes.

That was plain for everyone to see.

His favourite ride was Glendalough Lake.

A beautiful place, I'm sure you'll all agree.

Garry never wanted the Rats to stop..

He was appeasing to no avail.

In the end it became too much.

His only wish, for it not to fail.

A new life began outside the Group.

Selling insurance, as a start.

Then Lily & Piers came along.

Two beautiful kids that melted his heart.

Garry never stopped playing.

He had a plan to reform the Band.

So, he started 'The Rats' with Simon.

It got Bob thinking, as Garry held out his hand.

Eventually, Bob pulled out his snakeskin suit.

As he wanted to hear Garry's guitar.

For us all, it has been too long.

28 years had gone afar..

For the fans, the dream came true.

The Boomtown Rats were back on stage.

Sounding as good as ever.

With their old exuberance and rage

Garry was a legend in every way.

A title given to him by Mark.

Adored and admired by so many.

Put it simply, he was our spark.

There'll never be another Garry Roberts

He was the 'one-man-Ramone'.

Up there with his hero, Brian Jones.

To a bigger stage, he has flown.

Rob

[ladyryukyo]

Your 5 favourite tropes

ough careful you found my number one weakness

i love tropes i will reread the same trope over and over again and never get tired of it, this list doubles as what i would like to see in the fandom suggestions, so take notes if you want me in your comments screaming my head off /hj

1. enemies/rivals-to-lovers

you all already knows this about me probably but SDGLAHGAS the irritation, the banter, the "shit he's hot" realization, the feelings realization, the ust, the begrudging allyship, when everyone can see it but they deny it all, and then when the inevitable kiss happens it's so cathartic, i love everything about this

2. mutual pining + slow burn

the longer the mutual pining goes on, the better the fallout in the end BUT the pining has to increase in intensity with time. if it stays the same it's boring and frustrating to watch. it's so so good every time when they start noticing things about the other person, like physical attributes first, and then stuff about them as a person, and then they grow closer and closer until i simply melt into a puddle of goo

3. revenge

when a character has been slighted and makes a comeback that is so badass and cool and cathartic and everyone fears and respects them now, hell yes, i love that shit. one of my most searched for tags on ao3 is "BAMF *favorite character*" i will never get tired of this

4. partners in crime

sharing a secret, protecting each other to the best of their abilities, discussing the plan until it's suddenly not about the plan anymore but things they have never told anyone else before and they trust each other now after everything they went through together, they dont know who of the people around them they can trust but they know they can trust each other at least, they have never trusted anyone more, guys, it's about the trust helloooo??

5. time travel fix-it

in some fandoms, that is the only trope i read because i am just that obsessed with it. when canon fucks up and kills beloved side characters/destroys happy memories/doesn't give someone what they deserve (good or bad), there is nothing better than sending the characters back and doing it all over again but with a plan this time. bonus points for making badass characters even more badass.

honorary mentions: handholding, soulmates, gray morality, case fic, forced proximity, hidden/secret identity, tending to each other's wounds

[safyresky]

Crystal Springs Chapter 11: now on ao3!

Give it a read HERE!

Chapter 11: Ready or Not

Jacqueline's letter reaches home, making for some hard-hitting discussions for Mr. and Mrs. Frost. While waiting for their reply, Jacqueline sets her sights on convincing Jack that going home is the right move.

I may play with the summary a bit, but I think this about does it for now! Very exciting to finally have CS up to this point on ao3! The Frosts, my beloved blorbos 🥰🥰🥰

Here's a little excerpt for you all of my absolute favourite part (and probably one of my favourite blinter moments tbh):

Winter cupped her mug, gently hopping down from the desk and stopping in front of Blaise by the fireplace. "It doesn't necessarily mean you're still mad. The Jack look, that is," she said, taking another sip. She frowned, her lips a line of distaste. Blaise smiled, grabbed the mug and held it, only pressing it back into her cold hands when steam once again wafted off the top of the drink. Winter brightened, taking a much happier, warmer sip. "It's just a look you get when you think or talk about Jack," she said. Blaise frowned, resuming his pacing once more. "Even so, I'm still not sure where I stand! And do you know what's even worse?" he said, turning by the desk, hands once again up in the air. "What?" Winter asked, taking another sip. "I realized that I hadn't even asked you how you felt about all this last year!" he said, gesturing towards Winter with both of his open hands. "Let alone today!" he added, as his pacing led him back to the fireplace. “Oh Blaise,” Winter said fondly, placing her mug down on the mantle. Before Blaise had a chance to start pacing again, she grabbed his lapels and turned him around so he was facing her. “You’re always thinking of everyone but yourself,” she began, thumbs rubbing his collarbone gently. “Calm down, dear. It’s going to be okay,” she said with a soft smile. “I should be telling you that,” he said, lightly caressing her cheek. "You can do that in a moment, Blaise dear. I feel the same way, after all." "You do?" Blaise asked, surprised. "But you've been taking this all so well." "That's because the smaller picture isn't as complicated as you're making it out to be." "The smaller picture?" Blaise asked, head still bowed forward towards Winter, who had an iron clad grip on his lapels. Not that he minded, of course. "Yes dear, the smaller picture. You see," she said, with the slightest lift and slide of her right foot going completely unnoticed by him. "You're focusing on the bigger picture." A wind stirred in the office, blowing into their sides from her right. "Which is fair, but what we need to look at first," There was a thunk, and a long scrapping sound that was shortly muffled by the thick rug beneath their feet in front of the fireplace. "Is the smaller picture." Blaise felt the heavy wood of his chair knock into the backs of his knees mere milliseconds before Winter shoved him right down into the seat, her palms now flat on his chest. "Which is this," Winter finished, a cold gust blowing the worn paper right between them. She caught it between her index finger and middle finger with a completely unnecessary flourish. Blaise grinned, looking at his wife with a mix of pride and cockiness. "See, now that is the look look," Winter teased.

I was so torn between THAT scene, and one with Jack and Jacqueline being like YOU WANT TO DO WHAT NOW?! But this is still one of my top 5 favourite scenes in CS (if not the favourite), so it won out after a power nap lol.

Anyway! Enjoy! And of course:

You can start Crystal Springs from the top HERE on ao3, and HERE on ff.net! Story summary below the cut:

It’s been almost a year since Jack Frost thawed and things are looking…well, not so great. Jack’s powers are seemingly gone. Without them, the Dome that keeps the North Pole safe from the cold and its magic controlled is melting, putting everything and everyone magical at risk.

Unable to hide his power shortage any longer, Jack is forced to admit the truth. Thankfully, there is a solution: enacting the Legate Law, bringing Jack and the sister that he hurt so many centuries ago back together again. But when Jacqueline starts experiencing destructive blackouts, the pair are forced to head back home to Crystal Springs, bringing Jack face to face with the rest of the family.

Needless to say, between getting his powers back, helping his sister figure out what in the FROST those blackouts even were, reconciling with his parents, meeting the two even younger siblings he didn’t even KNOW he had, NOT TO MENTION the ancient threat that’s had it out for the ENTIRE Frost family finally making a move?

Saving Christmas (regrettably) is looking to be a little bit…complicated.

[yeasty-boy]

I posted 248 times in 2022

That's 212 more posts than 2021!

19 posts created (8%)

229 posts reblogged (92%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@gay-panic-in-a-bottle

@dingdongyouarewrong

@nandodelacruz

@bestmannequin2018

@starfleetrambo

I tagged 84 of my posts in 2022

#pathologic - 18 posts

#unreality - 7 posts

#artemy burakh - 6 posts

#goncharov - 5 posts

#daniil dankovsky - 5 posts

#i would die for each of these doggos - 2 posts

#artemy my beloved - 2 posts

#clara the changeling - 2 posts

#someone please knock me out - 2 posts

#been using it to make my insomniac episode more bearable - 2 posts

Longest Tag: 112 characters

#like the game is one bog performance so having the characters being literal actors is just ✨ muah ✨ chiefs kiss

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

....

Why is this trending

2 notes - Posted December 7, 2022

#4

I just rewatched the goncharov and holy shit I have so much to talk about

First of all I absolutely love the way that color is used in these movies. It reminds me of some of the earlier films to use it, in that it was used sparingly. Everything is bland and bleak save for a singular accent color. It naturally draws the eye to the focus and makes everything else fade into the background and also taking away general noise

The color red is given a specific connotation in conjugation with the apple motif, symbolizing a loss of innocence through ones one choices, specifically the sort brought about through betrayal. When Katya kills her husband she is covered in blood, specifically staining her white coat, which has been used to present shelteredness and safety (though can also be interpreted as being trapped, which ever resonates more with you). Until this point she has never directly killed anyone and here she is, look how far she has fallen, covered in her own betrayal. She has destroyed the thing which protected her, melted her wax wings, but her fall is the most free she has ever been

Not only that but the use of green being interpreted as freedom (or alternatively wishes and desires). In Katya's final moments, she pictures Sofia, surrounded by lush green fields, forest, and freedom. Sofia up until this point has been wearing blue (which I can go into it's symbolism later) but in this moment she is wearing stark green, making nature itself look dull by comparison. She is the true freedom and only in death does Katya realize the gravity of that

(also I just love these two so much, like yes they are terribly people who cannot communicate basic emotions and if they just talked then at least two people could have had a happy ended but at the same time that's their tragedy because there was never a world where they could have ran away because katya would always be katya and sofia would always be sofia)

3 notes - Posted November 20, 2022

#3

One thing I wanted to talk about was how fucking hard it is to find this movie. Like I heard about it through a friend of a friend who went on and on about how great this thing was so I decided to pirate it but it was impossible. Like every single one was either filmed on someones wet pasta noodle and then deep fried, or just covered in ads making it impossible to watch

After that I decided to look through my dad's massive movie collection (the man has well over 2000 movies saved to discs so if anyone had this film it would be him)

At this point I didn't even care about the movie, it was now a matter of pride. This movie existed and was thwarting my attempts to find it for well over a week now and I would be damned if it won

I sifted through boxes of movies, covered in dust, looking for the picture which was now burned into my brain. On the 3 box I found it, innocuous and real. The disc case was still intact, though the paper picture inside was warped from water damage. At this point I was fully expecting the movie not to exist and here it was, in my grubby little hands. I practically sprinted to my computer and started to play the movie. I was shaking from the discovery, after days of searching I found it, all on my dad's Blu-ray dvd

I'm sure now it has become much easier to pirate it (with growing awareness and such) but I'm almost glad that I had to work so hard to find it. That somewhere in my house it had been waiting for someone to open it up again and take a look

3 notes - Posted November 20, 2022

#2

One of the reasons I love the barter system in pathologic is because it makes me feel like the middling part of a failed pyramid scheme. I run around, the vast majority of my inventory taken up by objects that are useless to me, in hopes of finding someone who will be willing to exchange it for something less useless. On the third day I distinctly remember running around with 10 various nuts, looking for the exact bullets I needed. Because of the various things you can trade, I end up hoarding complete trash and I love it

20 notes - Posted August 3, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

I don't know why but I absolutely adore the idea of pathologic time loop au. Like the character go through their twelve days and then BAM "IM BACK IN THE FUCKING BUILDING????"

They all navigate the second run in complete terror and confusion, jumping around through what little they remember of their quests and kinda doing better? But it mainly being hindered by their own existential dread, confusion, and general trying to figure what the fuck is going on.

Then it just repeats on infantum until (I'm choosing Clara for this since she's the resident strange girl) figures out a solution and everyone gets a semi happy ending or they have to make big sacrifice, what ever floats your boat

21 notes - Posted July 27, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[popsicle-parfait]

Spontaneous Pantalone Headcannons

Theme: Pantalone with a Snezhnayan Reader!

CW: slight (?) yandere themes, mentions of guns

Requested?: Nope!

A/n: I wanted to make more posts so I decided to do this! Also I'm making these up as I go so bear with me!

When taking a loan from the local bank for your mother, that's when you saw him.

Your nose was red and you had a basket filled with pastries, trying to keep them warm from the harsh everlasting winter.

At first you didn't seem to mind his presence back then, especially because you didn't know him then.

But one thing that caught your eye for sure was the gaze he held, it was one filled with knowledge; and power.

You didn't think anything of it until you kept meeting up with him during financial excursions, once was a coincidence but 5 times? That was a pattern.

What you didn't know was that day when you locked eyes with the harbinger, he just knew you were different

You weren't the average passerby that would quake in his sight or question his presence, no your being screamed intelligence and poise.

At first he would notice little glances of you every now and again, nothing noteworthy--at least, that's what he thought.

You weren't aware of it, but there was a time where you had a small discourse with some foreigner in an empty street.

You told the man that you refused to give him your valuables, he obviously thought you were an easy catch and continued to push your buttons further.

Then, that was when it happened, you had a vision. Your hidden emblem hanging from your fur coat shined brightly as you pulled out a small pistol before firing a warning shot past the foreigner's head.

Realizing his almost death, the man ran away in terror after apologizing vigorously.

Pantalone was entranced, that look you had on your face, it was ice cold; and that, my friend drew the harbingers attention.

Ever since that encounter he's wondered what it would be like to melt your frozen walls, to be the only one who you show your true feelings to.

Oh how he longed to waltz with you under the moonlight and kiss your skin as the violin rang through the room.

It may not have interfered with his missions, but he did think about you; there was never a moment where he wasn't.

He wondered what it would be like to see you smile, to whisk you away from your somber village life and give you one full of elegance and luxury.

And as time moved on, you finally gathered enough ambition to move the first chess piece

The conversations you two would have always left him wanting more, and it made you feel wanted in the same.

Little meet ups turned into dining at fancy restaurants and subtle laughs turned into enchanting gazes with eachother.

Your cold heart melted when he'd call you "dear" or "beloved" and his eyes shined with satisfaction when you blushed in slight embarrassment

Long walks along the terrain were very common with you two, especially during the night when the stars glistened above.

You'd visit him while he worked on his financial services, helping ease the workload little by little as the two of you found the atmosphere comfortable.

Cuddling together and sharing each other's coats were the little things you two enjoyed when you could.

And if you two ran into trouble along the way? Well, let's just say that their body no longer exists.

You would do anything for each other, even dancing upon the graves of your enemies when it comes down to it.

Pantalone never gets jealous, simply because he knew just how much organs sell in the black market; and because you'd never let them get away far enough for ruining your time together.

Your relationship was like a tango with ice at your feet, and he wouldn't have it any other way.

After all, he is a harbinger.

[csykora]

Hi maybe the post is kind of old, but did you actually have recommendations for a cold weather car emergency kit? No worries if not of course and thank you for your time. Love the blog.

Of course!

Basic car items:

Ice scraper, snow brush, windshield cleanser

Collapsible or folding snow shovel

Sand or cat litter

Flashlight (either a handcrank or with extra batteries)

Jumper cables

some bottled water

Duct tape

Road flares or reflective warning triangles

Lighter

Tire gauge and tire plug kit

some people would say a knife or a multitool, I recommend my beloved hatchet (like this)

Blanket (I recommend wool)

Mittens (wool or waterproof), leather work gloves, or both

Dry shirt

Wool socks

You can ignore me on the other wool recommendations, but the socks are worth it. The reason is that wool is moderately water resistant, while many synthetic fibers and cotton absorb water. Cotton is a remarkable fiber that can become remarkably dangerous in a cold-weather emergency, as it will collect and hold large amount of sweat and melting snow on your skin, increasing the weight you're carrying and your risk of cold injury. If you have to get out and dig your car out or walk for some distance in a cold weather emergency, you want to be able to change into that spare shirt as soon as you start getting sweaty or wet. Wet + cold is what will get you.

First aid kit

providone-iodine disinfectant bottle or swabs

alcohol-based sanitizer

2 Bandages, Adhesive, Fabric, 1" x 3"

2 Dressings, Gauze, Sterile, 2" x 2"

2 Dressings, Gauze, Sterile, 4" x 4"

2 Dressings, Non-Adherent, Sterile, 3" x 4"

2 Bandage, Conforming Gauze, 3"

5 Bandage, Adhesive, Fabric, Knuckle

1 Trauma Pad, 5" x 9"

maxi pads

Moleskin for blisters

1 flexible splint such as a SAM® Splint, 4" x 36"

1 triangle bandage (for sling)

shears or scissors

Splinter Picker/Tick Remover Forceps/tweezers

Safety pins

Pencil or Sharpie (for making notes in a medical emergency. this is extremely helpful!)

useful medications:

Ibuprofen

Acetaminophen

Antihistamine (Diphenhydramine)

Aspirin

Diamode/Imodium (Loperamide)

Antacid

oral rehydration salts/electrolyte powder

Providone-iodine, also known as Betadine or just iodine, is the preferred way to clean cuts and wounds. Alcohol is for cleaning intact skin or cleaning your tools. Hydrogen peroxide is not preferred on your body, because it can increase tissue damage, but you can clean your tools with it if you have it.

If you have fragile skin and are prone to skin tears or frequently travel with an elder who is, I also recommend carrying mepitels, which are the best way to dress shallow torn skin.

If you're assembling this yourself, I recommend putting it all in a plastic bucket. Cat litter buckets work brilliantly, since they're usually squared off so they fit well in your trunk. The bucket is useful if you need to dig snow, spread sand, or generally carry stuff. Also worst comes to worst you can gather and melt snow in it for water.

If as I now realize maybe you were asking about where to buy one, I really like https://www.adventuremedicalkits.com/, https://www.survival-supply.com/ and https://mymedic.com/

[dimplehyunn]

Pairing:Idol!J.JH X Fem!reader | Genre:Fluff,parents AU | Wc: Less than 1k | No warnings hehe.

[3:48]"Welcome home,honey",you greeted your husband with a quick peck on his lips. "Where's Jae-eun?",your husband looked around for your 5 years old daughter worriedly.She's always the first one to come running to her dad as soon as he comes home but today she didn't.

"She's probably still sulking.She's in her room",you answered him heavily as you walked back to the kitchen.

"What happened to my favourite girl?", Jaehyun asked his beloved daughter benting down to the level of the entrance to her tiny Disney printed ballhouse.She was sitting inside of it,hands wrapped around her knees,sobbing quietly.

“Daddy!”,Jae-eun ran out of her favourite hideout and jumped into her dad's arms,"Mommy said she wouldn't get me a puppy",she started crying out loud hugging her dad tightly."Is that what’s making my baby sad?",Jaehyun asked her stroking her hair softly.She let go of the hug and pointed her index finger at her toy shelf and bed, "See daddy, I cleaned my room,sorted my toys",hiccups interrupting her statement continuously.

“The cupcakes are ready!”,you came in only to see your daughter trying to hide her tinyself behind her father’s long legs.

You crossed your arms as you rose an eyebrow at your husband,"Yes? And who's going to take care of the puppy?",you questioned him as a response to his plea supporting his daughter.

"I will", your daughter happily pointed at herself in excitement. "As if..", you scoffed at her.

"C'mon,look around her room. She cleaned her bed,arranged her toys.Doesn't she deserve a prize for this?",Jaehyun said in the same manner as his daughter.pout formed up on his lips.

"Jae,I get it that she deserves a prize but you're barely home. I have so many works to do by myself already. I cannot take care of a puppy. So no means no",you explained calmly as you saw tears forming up in your daughters shimmery doe eyes.

Jaehyun and you,both instantly bent down to her level trying to comfort your crying little chocoball.Your heart melted at the sight of your one and only baby crying."I promise baby, I'll get you anything else but not a puppy",you softly whispered in her ears.She cried for a while before finally realizing what she wanted this time.

Jae-eun wiped her eyes with her small hands and moved a little away,fixing her dress sliding it down.

"Mommy I don't want a puppy anymore.I want something else",she smiled at you both.

"That's like a good girl",you praised her admiring how easy it was to pursue her into getting something else unlike her dad.

"What is it that you want?", Jaehyun asked her gently smiling at her,flashing his deep dimples.You both stared at your daughter affectionately. Determined to get her whatever she wanted this time.

"I want a baby brother", she yelled loudly in excitement,throwing her hands up in the air.

Your eyes widened as you looked at Jaehyun.

A smirk formed up on his lips,"Wait, that's not a bad idea".

pushing him away you stood up,

"Whatever, where's the vet's number?Let's get you a puppy",you sighed and your daughter started to run around the whole room screaming excitedly.

Taglist : @beomgyuv -(send an ask or DM to be added)

Network(s) : @ficscafe @pretty-neos @neoturtles

A/N : I don't know about this haha.I just wrote it cause Jaehyun seems to be such a dad person. I'd appreciate your feedbacks! Have a nice day!

Reese ☆ Dimplehyunn

[shadyteacup]

This is a day late, but here's a birthday fic I wrote for my favorite man, Dazai♡

Happy Birthday, Love♡

"Good morning!"

A cheery voice echoed in Dazai's ear. He groaned at the noise. It was only 5 in the morning.

"Who?", he managed to grumble into the phone, shifting on his bed to stretch his legs.

"It's me, Dummy. Wake up and get ready. I'm picking you up in 5."

His eyes shot open. Why the fuck were you picking him up at 5.05 am on a fucking Saturday?

"Y/N, it's literally dark out there, "

"Shut up. Be ready!"

With that, you hung up.

Dazai groaned into his pillow, fisting the sheets and preparing himself to get out of bed.

He rolled off the edge, quite literally, and landed on his bum, hissing at the cold that kissed his ass.

He stumbled to get ready, pulling on his favourite hoodie and throwing on some jeans.

In exactly 5 minutes, his doorbell rang.

He huffed, pulling it open, and was about to whine when he took in the sight of you.

There you stood, a bright smile on your face and a bouquet in your arms.

On the flowers a hideously large note read, "Happy Birthday, Osa!"

He blinked, remembering that today was, infact, 19th June. The day he was born.

"Happy birthday, baby!"

You extended your arms, thrusting the flowers in his face. He smiled at you, accepting the flowers and pulling you in.

"Whoa-"

You were cut short by a pair of lips slamming down onto your own.

Dazai had you pinned to his door as he passionately kissed you, pouring all his love and thanks into it. He trailed his hand along your sides, eliciting an excited shiver down your spine. His tongue claimed your mouth as it's own, making you whimper at the intensity of the kiss.

You pushed his shoulders, trying to create some distance between your heaving chests.

"Not... not now!"

You grinned up at your whiny boyfriend.

"But why can't we just tear our clothes off and-"

"No! I'm not celebrating your special day like this."

He pouted, his angelic features almost making you give in. Almost.

"I have something planned for you, love. "

He smirked, leaning forward to kiss along your neck.

"Do you... really... want... to miss out... on this?"

He asked you between kisses. You gulped, pushing him away.

"No! Not now! Maybe later."

He grinned coyly at your flustered state, before yelping at the sudden pull of you grabbing his arm.

You pulled him out of the house, slamming the door behind you, and sprinting down the hall. He stumbled to keep up to you, your entwined fingers pulling him forward.

You reached down stairs to your motorcycle, putting your helmet on and tossing one towards your favorite brunet.

"Come on!"

You ushered him to sit behind you, and once he was seated, you revved you bike to life. You roared through the empty streets of Yokohama. Dazai felt excited, the rush of the wind against his face igniting a flame of exhilaration through his bones.

He hugged your waist, leaning into your warmth as the cool wind nipped at his skin, eliciting shivers.

He watched as the sun rose, it's reddish rays expanding over the land, like how the ocean usurps the sandy beach with every wave. He was left awestruck at how beautiful the city looked. There was so much beauty in this world. He was glad to be able to witness it. Especially glad that he was with you. You were another one of nature's beauties. He adored you so much. He maybe even loved you. But he wouldn't tell you that, for he wasn't sure if the feelings were reciprocated. Nonetheless, being able to spend time with you was a blessing from the heavens. He was going to cherish each every millisecond he got with you.

You maneuvered trough the twist and turns, and took your beloved to a hilltop. The view was splendid from up here. You parked, asking Dazai to get off as you turned the engine off.

"Beautiful..."

You heard him whisper as he looked over the city.

You smiled at his genuine adoration, pulling out a blanket from your bag.

"I know you like nature. I also know that you like food."

He turned towards your voice to see you sitting on a cute blanket that was laid out on the grass. Baskets of food and drinks surrounded you.

"I thought that a picnic is a perfect blend of the two!"

He grinned at your thoughtfulness and joined you.

You both spent quite a while just observing the city. How the darkness was slowly replaced by light. How the once lonely streets were filled with the buzz of humanity. Just Dazai's heart. It was so lonely and dark, then you filled it with light.

As you laid your head on his shoulder, you couldn't help but feel... complete. His warmth, his smell, his touch.. it was all way too familiar to you. You both hadn't even been dating that long, but just the thought of him made you smile. You longed to see him everyday. Hearing his voice made you feel lighthearted. His smile lit up your day. Everything about the man sitting next you made you happy. He was your serotonin boost.

You gulped at the intensity of your feelings. You cared for him, a little too much. It scared you. But you knew he felt the same way.

Everytime he leaned into your touch, subconsciously grasping onto your warmth, you realized that he loved you. He never said it to you, but you could see it in his eyes. You could see it in his tiny actions. The way he would smile the brightest smile ever, when he saw you after a long time, the way his eyes lit up when you laughed on one of his stupid jokes, the way he hugged you a little longer than he used to at the beginning. It all just adds up.

You tilt your head to stare at your love, only to find brown eyes peering down at you.

You blushed at being caught, hiding your face into his neck.

Cute chuckles followed by multiple head-kisses made you look back up at the gorgeous man.

"What are you thinking about?"

He asked, brushing your hair out of your eyes.

"You.", you replied with a smile.

He froze at your reply, a pink hue dusting his cheeks.

"Are you blushing?"

You asked incredulously.

He shook his head a little too quickly to seem convincing, turning away. You grasped his chin, forcing him to look you in the eyes.

Your intense gaze was full of adoration and it made Dazai's face heat up. You were looking at him with such gentleness. He didn't deserve you.

"I love you, Osamu."

He froze. It was a mere whisper, but it was enough to toss his world upside down.

You had finally opened up to him about your true feelings. You felt relieved to finally spill the beans. Your relief didn't last long, though, as your beloved was yet to reply.

You were beginning to worry.

Had you read into it all wrong? Maybe his affinity to your touch was merely a habit. Maybe he wasn't in love with you. Your mind was screaming at you for possibly ruining his special day. You had gone ahead and made it awkward.

"Hey, forget about it. I was not thinking straight, and-"

"I love you, too."

Now you froze. Y/N.exe has stopped working.

"What?"

You sat there, mouth agape. You had expected this, hadn't you? Until a few minutes ago, you had convinced yourself that he loved you back. Yes, you were confused for a second, but now he had told you that he loved you. So, why were you shocked? Why did it feel so good to hear those words from him?

He smiled at your frozen face, leaning forward to kiss you. You melted into his arms, telling him just how much he meant to you through the kiss. You loved how you didn't have to voice out your feelings with him. He simply understood you.

Your fingers threaded through his messy locks, pulling him closer to deepen the kiss. He grabbed your waist, lifting you up. You jumped at the opportunity and sat yourself on his lap. His hands took the liberty to express your back, creeping under your shirt to caress your soft skin. His skilled fingers teased their way higher and higher. You pushed him on his back, hovering over him, desperate to take control. He didn't let you break the kiss, pulling you down along with him.

A few moments later, it became hard to breathe, but his taste was intoxicating.

He pulled back first, grinning boyishly at you. Placing his forehead on yours, he licked his lips.

"Can't wait to claim you, tonight."

The meaning behind his words finally hit you, and you smacked his arm.

"Why would you say that?!"

"I'll make you scream your love for me, babe."

He winked.

You heated up, hiding your face in your arms. His chuckles made you want to fling a rock at his dumb head.

He was such a baby. But he was your baby. And as long as he was by your side, you would be content.

Hehe, idk if this was good enough, coz I wrote after a long time... but I love he so much uwu

Tagging!

@anarchy-black-cat @707xn @evalynanne @b-i-t-t-i-e-s @kuraxmasha @syynnaaah  @roserosie05 @mikasa-stan-account @alittlesimp @greenshirtimagines @paradise-creator @kiyokoxd @ranposlover @the-foreigner @sakikoshi@h3xa413a @sukunas-cult-leader @ilOvedaydreaming @del1111 @craftypeachmoneyhound @notquitehereorthere @mikasa-stan-account @kenmasbbygrl @alphaofdarkness @duhsies @cees-sims @the-foreigner @uglapuglamuglafugla @sugarandsoft @jadegreenimmortality @flanelsantito @shiny84244 @one-hell-of-otaku-is-here @missrown @requiem626k @sukunas-cult-leader @ilovedaydreaming @roserosie05 @mikasa-stan

[forever-rogue]

In Name Only - Part 5

A/N: Hello, my sunshines! Here is the re-write of the original part 5. Hopefully it’s as good as the original, and if it’s your first time reading this, I hope you enjoy!

Pairing: Oberyn Martell x Fem!Reader

Word Count: 6k

Warnings: language, period typical sexism and misogyny

IN NAME ONLY SERIES MASTERLIST

MASTERLIST

»»————-　♡　————-««

Oberyn groaned as he sat up, rubbing away the bits of sleep that were still clinging on from his tired eyes. It was before first light and his rooms were shrouded in darkness, but he knew he needed to get up in order to prepare for his journey. He needed to leave soon in order to make it out of Sunspear before day broke in order to make the long trek that would consist of several long days. 

He hadn’t slept much the evening before, his head swimming with a mixture of different thoughts, but more anything else, he had been all consumed by you. After he had kissed you, he wasn’t sure he had made the right decision, or if he had possibly ruined everything that was building between the two of you. But when you had kissed him, unsure and hesitant at first, but then melted into his touch, he realized that maybe you had wanted this too. You had looked back at him with the absolute sweetest eyes and took it everything in his power not to grab you and pull you back into his rooms then and there.

But no. This wasn’t going to be like that. This wasn’t going to be anything like that. If you wanted this, as he was beginning to think he might as well, he needed to know for sure. He wanted everything to be crystal clear, and at no point would he want to take advantage of you.

He stood up, letting his feet hit the floor with a dull thud, finding himself reluctant to leave again. Something was calling to him, encouraging him to stay, but he knew he couldn’t. There was a job to be done and he needed to do it before addressing whatever was going on within his heart and his mind. Oberyn’s gait was heavy, a sharp contrast to how light his tread normally was, as he crossed the room to his wardrobe and lazily pulled out some clothes to wear. His morning routine was simple, but today it felt overwhelming, most likely because he was unenthusiastic to leave and would rather have stayed. Stayed and spent the time with you.

But a knock came at his door and told him that everyone was waiting on him to come down so they could all leave. Grumbling his acquiescence, he grabbed the few things he planned on taking before exiting his chambers and leaving his bag in front of his door. When he stepped into the hallway, straightening his tunic with a yawn, his tired gaze fell on your door. He slowly walked over, resting his large hand on the wooden door as he debated whether or not to come in. His curiosity got the better of him and he opened the heavy door, slowly, as to not make a sound and disturb your sleep.

Once there was enough of a gap for him, he slipped inside and walked over to your bed. You were bundled up in your blankets, only your head poking out of them, a peaceful, serene expression on your face. A smile crossed his own face as he leaned down, unable to stop himself, and pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead. A small sound escaped your lips and he worried for a moment that he had woken you, but your eyes remained closed, and you shifted slightly as your hand appeared moved to rest on top of the blankets. He looked at it closely, finding it hard to fight a smile when he saw the wedding band on your finger, the one that matched his.

“I’ll see you soon, sweet girl,” he whispered, gently touching your face, before straightening back up and slowly retreating out of the room and closing your door again. A heavy sigh escaped his lips as he grew even more hesitant to leave. This pull, this strange sensation that was washing over and drawing him towards you was getting even stronger. With one last longing look at your door, he started walking down the stairs and out of the palace. He really hoped that this wouldn’t take a whole week and it would be an easy there and back job.

»»————-　♡　————-««

The journey to Yronwood was an interesting one; it required travel from his home through many different parts of Dorne, all varied and different in cultures and customs. One thing that seemed to be ever present however was the warm, welcoming feeling that was ever present wherever he went. People stopped what they were doing, coming out of their homes and shops to see their prince and greet him. Oberyn was beloved by his people and he loved them in turn. 

Many stopped for even a mere glimpse of the handsome prince, waving and shouting well wishes at him. Wishes of good fortune, health, and a long and happy marriage. He had no doubt many had been eager to see a glimpse of his new bride, but that would all come in time. For now, he was happy to keep you safe and at home, while he handled whatever troubles were brewing in Yronwood. 

The various states of Dorne were something to behold; each boasted a different look and atmosphere and yet it was all harmonic and came together beautifully. Despite having traveled the world, this would always be his favorite place to be - his home. He hoped one that day you would consider it yours too. But that was another thought for another day, when he had time to show you more. Now he needed to focus on weeding out the problem, although he was sure he had an inkling of what was going on.

As soon as Yronwood came into view, an odd sensation settled in his stomach. It was still beautiful, in its own way, but a sharp contrast to the rest of the region. Instead of the vibrancy and openness of many Dornish holds and cities, Yronwood more closely resembled the Northern parts of Westeros. A slight shudder ran down his spine at the thought. While people, namely women, retained the same liberties here as they did throughout Dorne, the reality was vastly different. No one said anything, but it was...a known fact. And as it turned out, every once in a while Doran or Oberyn had to remind them of that little detail. 

“Uncle!” Oberyn was pulled back into attention from the sound of the young man’s voice. He turned and saw his nephew, Quentyn running towards him, flanking by a few others from the castle. He was grinning from ear to ear as he stopped in front of Oberyn’s horse and took the reins while Oberyn slid off.

“My boy,” he wasted no time in wrapping his arms around his nephew, clutching him tightly to his chest. The young boy was almost the spitting image of Oberyn at his; tan and lithe, with a mop of dark curls and soft eyes, and a smile that matched his own. He’d always had a soft spot for his nephew, the only boy that was ever-present in his life; in some ways regarded him as a son rather than a nephew. He pressed a kiss to the top of head, “I’ve missed you. Look at you, you’re practically a man grown.”

“Thank you, Uncle,” Quentyn grinned at him; he looked up this father, naturally, but there was no denying that Oberyn was his hero. They’d always shared a special bond, “I am glad to see you again. And what of your new wife? Are you hiding her away?”

“You will meet her soon enough,” Oberyn promised, “she’s remaining in Sunspear for the time being until I can show her more of Dorne. I figured that would be best for now, and that her first introduction to Dorne should not be with Yronwood. She’ll quite like you - and you’ll like her. She’s very kind.”

“I should be glad to meet her as well,” he grinned as the men started heading towards the castle, “perhaps I can come back home soon for a visit - or better yet, for good. I know Papa thinks I should remain here but I’d like to be home with everyone else…”

“I know,” Oberyn offered his shoulder a firm squeeze, “but for now you must remain here. It’s only for a few more years; I know it seems harsh, but your fostering is almost complete. Besides - you are a Martell. You must not bow to them, you must keep them in line too. What are your words, Quentyn?”

“Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken.”

“Exactly,” Oberyn grinned, “never let them take that from you. Have they been treating you well?”

“Yes,” he said as they headed into the dreary keep, “the arms master and maester are kind and knowledgeable. It’s mainly the Yronwoods themselves, Uncle. They’re…”

“Oberyn Martell!” the booming voice was commanding and Oberyn turned on his heel to find its owner.

“Anders Yronwood,” he acknowledged with a slight bow of his head. Anders Yronwood was a tall, portly man with a scarred visage and a receding hairline. He’d seen many battles throughout his lifetime, which left him hardened in looks and personality. Oberyn had always felt there was something off about him, but he never had quite even evidence of anything to prove his claims. Instead he made sure his visits were not too infrequent. The man extended his hand and Oberyn shook it, refusing to be the first to break eye contact, “a pleasure as always. I hope things have been well.”

“Well enough to cause me to wonder why you’ve made your presence known,” he laughed, a loud boisterous thing that caused Oberyn’s skin to crawl, “shouldn’t you be enjoying the company of your new bride?”

“My nephew here informed me that there were some rumors going around,” Oberyn’s hands went to his hips as he made sure to display his trusty dagger, “merchants not getting paid enough and taxes being raised and levied against the poor. All rumors of course, but I just decided to come and make sure everything is in order. There won’t be a problem, will there?”

“Of course not, your highness,” the man’s face pulled into a worried expression for a moment before he laughed and clapped Oberyn on the back, “I’ll have chambers readied for you and your men at once but for now, we’ll get a drink and celebrate the famed Dornish Prince. Now, tell me more about this Northern whore of yours. I know they’re not good for much-”

“I would choose your next words wisely, my lord,” Oberyn’s expression shifted to one of calculated anger as he raised his eyebrows, “I will not hear you refer to my wife as such again.”

“It’s a joke!” Oberyn knew it was anything but a joke, “you know how warm and giving our women are here. The ones from the North just lie there and expect you to do all the work. But I guess it doesn’t matter, does it, as long as you can find release and they can produce a few heirs.”

“I would cease to speak if I were you,” Oberyn stopped dead in tracks as he was almost trembling with anger. Such foul, vile words from a man who called himself fair and just. He was anything but, “I’m not sure if you’re aware that women are people as well? Equal, if not better, no matter where they’re from. They do not exist solely for our pleasure or for the purpose of bearing heirs. Have you forgotten that?”

“I’m just saying,” he held his hands up in mock surrender as Oberyn glared daggers at him, “my second wife was Northern - wasn’t good for much, but managed to give me some sons. Other than that it was-”

“Listen here and listen well,” Oberyn grabbed the lapels of his robe and pulled him close. For once, Anders Yronwood appeared nervous, “you will learn to treat women, and everyone else with some decency and respect, regardless of their station. My nephew will be watching you closely - everything he sees and hears, so do I. Don’t forget where your loyalties lie - House Martell. One word and you will find yourself without a name, a title, or anything you deem so important. I am your Prince, as Quentyn. Remember that.”

His mouth pulled into a thin, tight line as he nodded in silence. He knew better than to tread on the Red Viper; even he wasn’t that foolish. Oberyn let him go before shoving him out of the way; he could feel the eyes of everyone in the hall on him, “of course, your highness.”

“Good,” he stated simply, motioning for Quentyn and a few of his men to follow, “I’ll see you around.”

»»————-　♡　————-««

The next few days were spent with Oberyn traveling throughout the region, along with some of his most trusted advisors and Quentyn. He'd always tried to instill in him the importance of being there for his people, and taking care of them. Much to his relief, Quentyn had no arguments following in his Uncle's footsteps. 

As it turned out, rumors that the Yronwoods were participating in salacious activities turned out to just be rumors. It didn't mean however, that the people were happy with their rule. Oberyn would make it a point to bring up the peoples' apprehensions; he knew he had to deal with what was going on within the castle walls first and foremost. He noticed more and more that things were off as the days had passed and they had left him with an uneasy feeling. 

More than anything, he'd gotten to the conclusion that he was missing you. It had started off as a slow, underlying feeling, but with more and more time passing, he understood what it was. He still had so much to learn about you, and vice versa, but gods, he already missed your smile and that kind hearted spirit you openly displayed. He couldn't wait to be back in Sunspear.

On this particular evening, the prince had retired to his temporary chambers early, leaving the grand hall before the sun had even set. He was feeling restless and growing listless the longer his stay in Yronwood grew. He'd gone for a walk earlier that day, and spoken with some townspeople, but that had only taken up so much of his time. 

A heavy sigh passed his lips as he stoked the fire in the corner to provide some light and warmth. It was almost laughable; this was the only part of his kingdom that wasn't light and airy.  This was cold and dreary and the lack of light and life made his heart heavy. But it was no matter, he reminded himself, he would be home soon enough.

He settled into the small, uncomfortable and uninviting bed and grabbed his book. If nothing else he'd have something to occupy his mind. 

And for a while, it worked. At first his thoughts had kept drifting back to you and Sunspear. He wondered what you were up to, if you'd had full, happy days. He couldn't imagine you shut away and hidden like he currently was. Maybe you liked to read too - maybe at night he could read to you or you to him. Still so many mysteries that would need answers. He hoped one day that he would get them all.

As he allowed himself to concentrate on his book, a quiet, almost timid knock came at his door. Raising a brow, he decided against answering it, thinking that perhaps it wasn't intended for him after all. But then it came again, but less timid this time, followed by a quiet, "y-your highness?"

A look of confusion crossed his features as he got up from the bed and made his way to the door. He opened it with slight hesitation as he spied a young girl on the other side. She wore a thick, dark robe and a nervous expression as she met his eyes. He stepped to the side as he let her in and cast a glance down the hall.

"What is your name?" he asked, shutting the door as she looked at him with wide doe eyes, "how can I help you?"

"I don't have a name," she answered softly, "and it doesn't matter. I am a gift...from Lord Anders for your pleasure. Whatever you like, My Prince, I will do to you or for you."

"Why would he send you?" Oberyn ran a hand over tired face as he internally groaned. He knew exactly what Yronwood was up to. He shook his head to himself, "did he force you? Threaten you if you didn't come?"

"O-of course not, my prince," her face faltered for a moment as she reached up and ran her hands over his broad chest. She looked young, so young, and despite her assertion that she wanted to be there. He had a feeling that while she might not have been averse to him, she was nervous, "it is an honor and privilege to pleasure the famous Prince of Dorne." 

He sucked in a breath as she pushed his robe off of his shoulders. He couldn't  feel the inner turmoil within him start to rear up. While he wasn’t normally one to pass up such an offer, he couldn’t in good conscience have the young woman. She clearly wasn’t up to this on her own merits and he would never take advantage of another; Oberyn would be in his grave before he did that. He took a step back and shook his head. He wasn’t going to do this anymore; he was, in some odd sense, already committed to you. You’d never even told him that you wanted more than a friendly relationship, but he couldn’t help his mind from wandering back to you. 

“Please do not feel obligated to do anything of the sort,” he insisted, swallowing the lump in his throat. She pushed the woolen robe from her shoulders and let it fall into a small heap on the cold stone. Oberyn couldn’t help but look her over, immediately surprised by the fact that she was bare underneath. He knew it didn’t matter what he did with her, technically, since you’d both agreed that either of you could do whatever you wanted with whomever. She took a step closed and put a delicate hand on his cheek. 

“Please,” she insisted with an odd glint in her eyes. Part of him was conflicted but before knew what was happening, something came over him and his hands found her hips as he pushed her towards the bed. She easily complied and laid on her back as Oberyn loomed over. His hands were on her sides as he bent down and kissed with a deep hunger. She wrapped her arms around his neck and held him close to her, nervously kissing him back.

Before it could go too far, to the point of no return, Oberyn caught himself and looked down at her. That’s when it hit him - she wasn't you. He stopped immediately and moved off the bed, shaking his head furiously. The young girl was so startled by his sudden actions that a flush of warmth crossed her features as she worried she had committed some wrong.

"My Prince," she stammered nervously, grabbing the blanket and covered herself up, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to do anything wrong. I-I…"

"No," he held up his hand and picked up the discarded robe, gently handing it back to her, "you've done nothing wrong. I'm afraid the fault is on me."

“Is everything alright?” she made quick work of dressing herself before offering him a timid smile, “I can...send someone else, if I did not please you…”

“No,” he insisted as he gently brushed back her hair, helping her tie the robe, “I won’t take advantage of this situation...besides that, it appears my heart seems to lie with my wife at this time.”

“Your wife,” she smiled slightly at the thought, “she must be very lucky to call you her husband. You’re a good man, my Prince. Much better than the pigs around here-”

As soon as her last words left her lips, a look of surprise crossed her features. Clearly, she hadn’t meant to voice her thoughts out loud. 

“I believe I am the lucky one,” did you feel the same? He hoped you did, “tell me one thing. Did Anders Yronwood threaten you if you did not come here? What did he say?”

“He…” she looked at him, searching his eyes to make sure it was safe to confide in him. He answered with a small nod and encouraged her to go on, “he has several women he favors...women that are not his wife. He considers it a gift to share them with visitors. If we do not...if we do not do as we are told...we can be punished.”

“Punished?” his brows shot straight up.

“I’ve seen it a few times,” she whispered, “they’ll get beaten until they are left a mess. I-I can’t go back, please, don’t let me go back. Not tonight. He’ll hurt me too if he thinks I've displeased you or we haven't done anything."

"Its alright," Oberyn promised her, his blood already boiling with anger. He was glad he came - apparently his little message to Yronwood hadn't quite gotten through to him. Oberyn would make sure that he received it. He must have been extremely stupid or brash in order to think he could get away with sending his gift in such a manner, "go to your chambers, and remain there. I'll make sure you're safe - now and always. If anything ever happens again you or anyone in this castle, you are to let my nephew Quentyn know. He'll get word to me and I'll be here to help however I can. You mustn't be afraid, you've got me as a friend now."

"I don't know how I could ever thank you," her eyes were closed with tears as she couldn't help but her arms around him. He hugged her tightly and offered her a few more well wishes before opening the door to her, "you really are as they say. A good, kind, and just Prince. And handsome at that. Thank you again. I hope our paths again, and that I can meet your wife, preferably under better circumstances."

"As do I," he agreed, "until our paths cross again."

He watched her go, making sure she was safe and out of sight before closing the door and locking it behind him. He sat on the edge of the bed and let out a long, wary sigh. He couldn't help himself from wondering what it would be like to kiss you in such a manner. Would you be receptive? Would you be eager and happy? Or perhaps you wanted to keep him at bay. Whatever life decided to throw at you both, he supposed he would discover your true desires soon enough.

For now, he had more pressing matters to attend. He was going to make sure Anders Yronwood knew exactly who he was dealing with. He grabbed the book he had been reading and tossed it onto the table before sliding back into bed and pulling the covers up and bundling up.

He quickly fell into a deep, restless slumber. He tossed and turned for what seemed like hours, all of his thoughts drifting back to you. He wondered if you could feel it, all his warm and tender thoughts all the way back home in Sunspear. It was a comforting thought to know that you were both looking at the same moon and falling asleep under the same stars. It made the world seem that much smaller. It almost felt like you were there with him, at his side where he wished you were.

The thought alone of seeing you again, that sweet smile and lovely face, was enough to finally get him off to sleep. 

»»————-　♡　————-««

If Anders Yronwood was a gruesome and horrible overlord, his son Cletus was his mirror in every worse and still worse. It was a small solace that Cletus was not the heir to Yronwood, but rather that fell to his sister, Gwyneth. Oberyn had only met her on a few occasions, but he knew she was miles above the rest of her family. It was fortunate that Dorne did not follow the traditional customs of the rest of the Seven Kingdoms and only allowed male heirs. 

The Great Hall was bustling and loaded with rowdy people, causing an uneasy feeling to well up in Oberyn's stomach. It might have seemed lively, but once he looked closer, he could see that the only people having any semblance of a good time were the men of the keep. 

He rolled his eyes to himself as he grabbed a quiet seat at the end of the hall, attempting to keep hidden in the shadows. But it was no use - it continually proved to be a challenge when tried to pretend he was not the Prince when he was so easily recognizable. 

"Oberyn Martell," he was starting to hate the sound of his own name as Cletus took a seat next to him. He grimaced slightly as he turned to face the sudden interruption, "a pleasure as always."

"Cletus," he acknowledged, attempting to cut off the situation as quickly as he could. Cletus looked around and quickly flagged down one of the servants, waving her over obnoxiously as a nervous, vacant expression crossed her gestures.

"Go and get the biggest and best plates of food for myself and the Prince," he commanded as she refused to meet his eyes and nodded in understanding, "now."

"Are you always like this with people, Cletus?" 

"Only with people that deserve it," he leaned back in his chair and shrugged, clearly disinterested, "she's a kitchen wench. There's really not much to it."

"She's a person," a frown graced his features as he shook his head internally, "all people deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. What if she'd spoken to you in such a manner?"

"She wouldn't dare. I am her Lord-

"And yet still just a person," Oberyn snapped, "one who can be made to bend the knee with a single word from me."

Cletus remained silent as he stared anywhere but Oberyn's face. The silence was awkward and tense, easily cut with the dullest of knives. The Princes' fingers danced around the hilt of his dagger but he managed to stay his hand. One wrong move and it would cause an uproar. If it wouldn't have been such a risky move, he was half tempted to eradicate the problem then and there.

"Here you are my Lord, my Prince," the young woman had made a nervous return as she put two full plates of food in front of the men. They were overflowing with food that looked dry and sad and bland. There was so much flavor and spice available, yet this looked anything but. Oberyn thanked her gently while Cletus remained silent, "if there's nothing else, I'll attend to my other duties."

Before she could make her escape, Cletus grabbed her wrist and pulled her down to his level. She yelped in surprise as she tried to pull out of his clutches on instinct, "I'll see you in my chambers this evening. Don't be late like the last time or I'll have to punish you again. You don't want that, do you?"

"N-no, my Lord," she stammered nervously as he let go of her and she stumbled backwards from his tight grip. Oberyn's rage flared up when he spotted what appeared to be fading bruises along her shoulders and neck, "I will be there and on time.”

“Good,” he dismissed with a wave of his hand while Oberyn pushed his plate away. His already meager appetite had all but diminished. Cletus took a large bite, ignorantly unaware of the wrath that he had just brought upon himself, “you have to teach them...they’re not good for much else.”

“You’ve laid your hands on her,” it wasn’t so much a question as it was a direct statement. Cletus nodded lightly but kept shoving his mouth full of food, “you require her to warm your bed as well? How many others are there?”

“Maybe a dozen or so,” he shrugged, “we like to rotate through them. The one you were sent last night was one of the newest. A special treat.”

Unable to control himself any longer, Oberyn quickly pulled his dagger out and stabbed into the table between the two men, right near Cletus’ left hand. His mouth hung open at the action as he nervously looked at his Prince. 

“If I ever hear again of you touching any man, woman, or child in this castle, or anywhere, it will be the last time you do anything. You will not harm them, or require them to sleep with you,” he spat out as he grabbed his collar and pulled him close, “you will treat everybody, regardless of their position or station in life with respect. This is the Dornish way - the only way. I will have eyes on you and your family and your entire family. Do you understand me, boy?”

“You wouldn’t dare-”

“Oh,” Oberyn’s lips curled up in a devilish smile, “I would. Do you really want to find out what I will do? They call me the Red Viper for a reason - but I’m not afraid to resort to calling in the Boltons to flay you alive. My word is law around here and it’s time you and your filthy father learned to respect it.”

“You have no power,” he hissed nervously, casting a glance at the dagger that could have easily ended his life. The Great Hall had grown silent as all eyes were trained on the two men, “your brother rules.”

“Aye,” Oberyn nodded, “but it just so happens I rule too. I am the Prince of Dorne, boy, and Doran’s most trusted advisor. But again, if you want to take your chances…”

“Let me go,” he insisted in panic. 

“Remember where your loyalties lie,” Oberyn’s voice was quiet and dangerously low as he leaned in so only Cletus could hear him, “House Martell. We are your power - you will do as well say or your entire family can go off to the North...maybe even the wall. This is Dorne, and you will respect our way of life. A name and a title doesn’t keep you safe; not here. I will personally come and dole out justice if I need to. My nephew will be watching closely - one wrong move and I will hear it. You even think about touching as much as a hair on his head, you will have not just my wrath to fear, but all of Dorne’s. If I ever hear of anything like this again, you will rue the day. Do I make myself absolutely clear?"

"Yes," he whispered quietly as Oberyn grabbed his dagger and held it to the man's throat. Be pressed just enough to make an ident into his skin but not hard enough to draw blood, "crystal clear, your highness."

"Good," he insisted before pulling away and shoving Cletus away. Oberyn sighed  heavily as he got up and started to storm away. Before he left the Hall, he turned around and held up his arms. Every eye in the house was still on him, "and let this be a lesson and warning to everyone here. If I so much hear a whisper or breath of anything happening that goes against the laws set forth by House Martell, you will face our justice. Here in Dorne everyone is equal and will be treated with respect and dignity. If you have a problem with that, feel free to leave or you will personally face my blade."

There was small murmuring of acknowledgement as Oberyn left the hall, standing tall and proud. As much as he hated flaunting rule or power over anyone, sometimes he knew it needed to be done; equality for all was something he was extremely passionate about. They were lucky in some ways, to have him as their Prince. While he could be firm and violent, he was tame compared to some of the other Lords and rulers throughout the Kingdoms. He might have been the Red Viper, deadly and dangerous, but he was also fair and just as long as no one tread on him.

As soon as he reached an empty spot in the hall, he leaned against the wall and let out a long sigh, hiding his tired face in his hands. He’d seen more than enough and was ready to be gone from this foul place. All he could think about was making it back home to Sunspear, back home to you. 

“Uncle!” Quentyn ran up to him, barely able to contain the little smirk on his face, “is everything okay? I heard the last bit of your little speech.”

“This place is dreadful,” he sighed as Quentyn nodded in agreement, “of all the places your father had to choose to sequester you, it had to be here. I understand his reasoning, and yet the idea still makes me ill. We’ll have you home soon, I promise. For now, I want you to be our eyes and ears here. I know it’s a lot to ask, but do you think you can handle it?”

“Of course,” he grinned and nodded eagerly, “I’m always excited to help however I can.”

“Good boy,” he pulled him into a tight hug before kissing the top of his head, “you make us all very proud.”

“My Prince,” one of Oberyn’s men found him, a concerned look on his face, “Anders Yronwood has heard of your little outburst and he’s not happy…”

“I don’t care,” Oberyn insisted, “if he has a problem with our rules, he can leave. My word is law. Now, let us pack up and be rid of this horrid place. I want to get home and back to my wife."

"I can have everyone ready to leave within a few hours," Oberyn gave him a thankful squeeze on his shoulder, "and we'll get you back home to Sunspear as quickly as possible, your highness."

"I am forever in your debt," the idea of you waiting at home for him was enough to cast a warm feeling all over his body. He was more than ready to see you again - to kiss you again - everything. If nothing else, his time in Yronwood had been enough to give him a sense of clarity and peace. He really did want to try with you, he wanted to see you. The revelation was enough to send him in a tale spin.

"Aye," he grinned at his Prince, "we'll get you back to her post haste. Besides, the Lady made us swear to bring you back home safely. She's eager to have you back, no doubt."

"I am eager to be back with her as well," Oberyn's grin threatened to break his face in half, "and back with some decent company. Until later then."

"Unbowed, unbent, unbroken."

"Unbowed, unbent, unbroken." 

[luvdsc]

too hot! hot damn!

what do you get when you mix red and blue together?

pairing :: lee taeyong x reader genre :: fluff / boyfriend au word count :: 2,121 words warnings :: a tiny paragraph about making out playlist :: cherry kisses (chungha) ⋆ daft pretty boys (bad suns) ⋆ hands on me (taeyeon) ⋆ crash my car (coin) ⋆ shy (hunny) author’s note :: to the insanely talented goddess who wrote the first nct fic i ever read nearly 3 years ago and still love to this day!!! i didn’t think i’d ever get to be friends with one of my favoritest writers on here, but here we are :’) ily els @taeyongtime​ ♡ 

“It’s hot.”

You’re draped across the old, yet still very plush couch, the kitschy pattern spread across it now fondly regarded as one of the things that transforms this dingy little place from a shoebox apartment into home. The thin spaghetti strap of your faded tie-dyed tank top from your old sorority days hangs limply off of your shoulder, threatening to fall even more when you slump over to the left. The simple drawstring shorts you have on barely cover your legs, but you contemplate tossing them off still because it’s just. So. Damn. Hot.

“It’s hot!” you whine even louder, throwing your arms up in the air before letting them flop down onto the cushions dramatically. The nearby open window only blows in a measly little breeze that does nothing except dry the sweat on your skin for a few glorious seconds before it reappears like a stubborn stain. Your boyfriend only raises an eyebrow at you from his spot on the floor, sprawled out in front of said window and using one of his Nylon magazines as a makeshift fan.

Taeyong agrees, flapping the glossy pages in front of his face desperately. “It’s too hot.”

Two days consisting of barely surviving the power outage creeps into a third, the prospect of having AC again anytime soon becoming extremely bleak. The transformer had completely blown out, and the electric company finally sent out a crew to fix it earlier this morning. The estimated restoration was initially set to noon, but it was pushed back until 3 p.m., then 6 p.m., then 10 p.m., then 5 a.m., and now the big black bolded letters spelling out “undetermined” mocks you from the screen of your phone that's already set to the lowest brightness setting to conserve battery.

To make it worse, your city was suffering a heat wave, temperatures spiking to 105 degrees Fahrenheit every single day and simmering down to 80 during the night before climbing the thermostat again. The raging thunderstorm that plagued last night only resulted in unexpected humidity, making your clothes stick to you like a second skin.

“Make it less hot,” you moan, blowing air upwards towards your forehead in an attempt to cool down in the slightest way possible.

“I can’t control the weather, babe, but I can get you a popsicle?” Taeyong sluggishly pushes himself into a sitting position to face you. The shiny magazine in his hand still flounders around until he gives up on it and tosses it aside.

You turn your head, cheek pressing into the couch cushion, as you squint at him. “We don’t have any left. We took all our food from the fridge to Doyoung’s place. I can’t believe that bastard has a gigantic generator and is flourishing in his stupid air conditioned apartment and making frozen sangrias, while his best friends are about to die from heatstroke.”

You had sent back a rather crass Snapchat back to Doyoung after he sent one earlier of his perfect, Instagram story worthy, iced alcoholic beverage. It’s honestly a miracle that he didn’t toss your beloved brown sugar boba ice cream bars out onto his pristine balcony with picture perfect potted plants to perish. That man can still hold onto a grudge even after he’s on his deathbed and descending into the fiery pits.

Taeyong stands up and slowly ambles towards the refrigerator. “I saved two popsicles in the freezer. I figured it’d stay cold enough and not melt if we ate them soon.”

“Oh my god, that’s the sexiest thing you’ve ever said to me.” You struggle to push yourself up into a sitting position before finally being able to, watching your boyfriend open the freezer and pull out the last two saving graces.

“Do you want blue raspberry or cherry?”

He holds out the two icy sweets in front of you, one in each hand. You already know that he secretly wants the red one; it’s been his favorite ever since he was five and tried his very first one from the ice cream truck that still comes around his parents’ neighborhood. But you also know that he always lets you choose first and wouldn’t complain if you take that one.

You reach out and pluck the blue one from his grasp, and he smiles happily, eyes crinkling in the corners as he eagerly unwraps the cherry flavored one and shoves it in his mouth, tossing the wrapper into the nearby wicker trash basket.

He drops down onto the empty space next to you, reclining back and slouching in his seat. The two of you sit there peacefully, side by side and enjoying the cold snacks, until he wordlessly slides over, pressing the side of his arm and leg against yours.

“Move back,” you complain, shoving him over to his original position. “It’s hot, and you’re making it worse.”

“So are you calling me hot?” Taeyong wriggles his eyebrows at you before taking a bite of his popsicle, much to your horror. He moves closer to you again for the sole sake of annoying you.

“First off, I’m calling you sweaty. Secondly, did you just bite your ice cream?” You throw him a dirty look before moving over and turning to sit with your back against the arm rest, throwing your legs over his lap.

Taeyong slightly pouts at you, munching on yet another chunk of his popsicle and ignoring the way you wrinkle your nose in disdain. “What’s wrong with that? It’s melting, and I don’t want it to drip and get my hand all sticky.”

You can’t believe that you just discovered your boyfriend is a psychopath. He’s going to the same circle of hell as people who pour milk in before cereal and those who hate mint chocolate chip ice cream once he leaves this earth (He can even say hi to Doyoung as he descends to eternal damnation).

“Why didn’t you say anything about this before we started dating?” You are absolutely appalled. Horrified. Disgusted. This is the biggest relationship deal breaker you have ever come across.

“Next, you’re gonna say you hate me because I don’t like pineapple on pizza,” he says as his free hand settles on the top of your thigh, gently tapping rhythmically against it absentmindedly.

“Oh my god, you absolute heathen.” You really thought Taeyong was the perfect man of your dreams, but you unfortunately realize belatedly that even he has flaws. Some inexcusable ones, in fact. 

In the midst of your lamenting, you fail to notice melting sugar slowly trickling down until it leaves a sticky mess all over your hand. Desperately, you toss the empty popsicle stick into the nearby waste basket before licking off the remnants of your icy blue treat from your fingers.

“See? It melted all over you. I told you so,” Taeyong childishly sticks out his tongue as he waves his clean hand and empty popsicle stick around as if to emphasize his point.

“Your tongue’s red,” you say, chuckling slightly, and his eyes widen at this newfound revelation.

“Wait, stick out your tongue,” he demands as he throws away the wooden stick, and you comply with his request. He grins, delighted. “Yours is blue!”

He sticks out his tongue again, almost going cross eyed as he tries to catch a glimpse of his own. At that, your eyes zero in on his cherry stained lips, and an ingenious idea pops up in your mind as the sudden urge to kiss your boyfriend silly makes itself very known.

“Hey, wanna play a game, Yongie?” you ask slyly, and his attention immediately turns to you at the word “game,” interest piqued and eyes fixated on you.

“What kind of game?” he inquires cautiously, taking note of the mischievous glimmer in your eyes. You look like you’re up to no good, and your boyfriend wouldn’t be surprised if you have something up your metaphorical sleeve (Because nobody sane enough would be wearing something with sleeves in this weather from hell. In fact, you’re 66.6% percent certain that those fiery pits are probably cooler compared to here).

“Too hot.”

“Yes, it is,” he acknowledges, shaking his head in agreement, and you laugh, fanning yourself with your hands. “No, silly, I meant the game.” 

“It’s called ‘too hot’?” He raises an eyebrow at you, and you confirm, nodding your head. The expression of skepticism on his face says it all, so you throw in your bargaining chip.

“I hid a chocolate bar in the freezer’s ice chest. The winner can have it.”

His doe eyes immediately light up at the mention of his favorite sweet, and he grabs your hand, squeezing it tightly. “Okay, how do I play?”

“We kiss,” you start, and he’s already pulling you towards him enthusiastically, causing soft laughter to bubble up from your throat, before you swat his hands away. “Hey, hey, hey, I wasn’t done explaining it yet! There’s no touching allowed.”

“That’s no fun,” Taeyong whines, lips jutting out into a tiny pout that you want to kiss away already. “You said this is a game. Games are supposed to be fun.”

“But you’re getting kisses, and it’s already hot so it’s better this way,” you coax, and he relents with a drawn out sigh, and you quietly cheer. “Okay, ready?”

Taeyong gives you a tiny nod, and you grin before leaning in, eyes fluttering close. You gently place your lips against his, and he holds still. But then, a few seconds later, you feel his fingers barely grazing your cheek, and you immediately pull away with a frown.

“Baby, I told you that you can’t touch!”

“That rule is dumb,” he complains, crossing his arms over his chest like a petulant child. You frown at him, pouting until he gives in again because it’s you and he’d cross oceans and climb mountains for you.

“Okay, let’s try again,” he grumbles, glowering as he absentmindedly cards his hand through his hair, and you positively beam at him, and the sulking expression on his face softens almost instantly.

“What if we do baby steps first?” You pull your legs up onto the couch, sitting up on your knees and facing him. He fully turns to look at you, head cocked to one side.

“What do you mean?”

You lean forward and peck his cheek before moving back to your original position. “Like that. Now your turn.”

A lightbulb goes off in his head, and Taeyong leans forward and gingerly places a kiss on your forehead with an endearing smile. You inch forward and kiss his other cheek. He plants a tiny kiss to the tip of your nose, and you lean in to delicately leave a kiss on the corner of his mouth. He presses a kiss to the corner of your lips, and you do the same to the opposite side, much to his utter frustration.

This time, Taeyong chases after you when you pull away. You let out a noise of surprise as he gently tugs you forward, crashing his lips against yours and muffling your laughter, and you find yourself straddling your boyfriend. Your hands wind up tangled in his hair, while his arms lock around your waist and hold you close, game be damned.

You can taste a faint trace of cherry, causing the corners of your mouth to curl into the minutest hint of a smile before you press your mouth against his more firmly as he kisses you back eagerly until you both run out of air, pulling away breathlessly with identical smiles.

“You lost,” you tease, poking his cheek with your finger as your other hand curls around his shirt. He makes a face at you, his hands still resting on your waist, and you find that you don’t mind the warmth of them against your skin even in this ruthlessly blazing weather.

“But you’ll share the chocolate, right?” he mumbles, face still flushed and lips redder than before. He traces soft patterns against your hip as you tilt your head to the side, faking your hesitation.

“Hmm, I don’t know, should I? I won fair and square.”

He sticks his tongue out at you. “Meanie.” 

You laugh, sliding off his lap and onto the empty seat next to him (albeit a little unwillingly, but it’s still hot as hell unfortunately, and conserving body heat together isn’t helping at all). Your boyfriend frowns, mostly because you’re no longer sitting in his lap, but partly because he doesn’t understand why you’re laughing.

“What’s so funny?”

Your grin widens, eyes sparkling like you know something he doesn’t (because you do). “Baby, your tongue’s purple.”

Taeyong turns a shade brighter than his favorite popsicle flavor.

[xenia-cenia]

Chongyun x Fem!Reader - Strength

A/N - I forget how many days since I finished the Mondstadt part of this series... I had to start Liyue with my boi. My beloved. He <3

Also fan fact: Chongy means gum in Britain so it double works for Chongyun cuz he’s so dang good :) 

Trigger/Content Warnings: ghost mention, bad parents, food mention, we hurting Xingqiu today lads, fear, light swearing, kidnapping (kinda?)

Word Count: 2,937

Request: No

Summary: You’ve been plagued by demons your whole life. He’s never seen one. What will happen when you meet?

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Ghosts, spirits, and demons.

You were no stranger to the unknown. They often whispered secrets of their lives into your ears as you slept. Many exorcists had come and went. They all charged thousands of Mora, only for their promises to fall short. 

Your family was desperate. These whispering strangers grew stronger with each passing day, they began to claw and destroy your family. In one last-ditch effort to keep the (L/N) legacy alive, you were thrown to the streets. 

Many weeks passed, your survival depended on the kindness and naivety of strangers. They invited you into their homes, promising happier times and brighter futures. 

But just like before, they lied.

The whispers turned into yells, the yells into shrieks. It was positively unbearable. Madness constantly danced at the edge of your vision, you wanted nothing more than to give in.

It all changed, however, when a boy with light blue hair and cat slit pupils paused at your trembling form.

“...are you okay?”

Your head snapped up and you looked the boy up and down. He looked nothing special, light clothes and a melting popsicle in his hand. Your eyes focused on the popsicle and you unconsciously licked your lips as you imagined how good it’d feel to have real food in your mouth after... 4 days? 5? You’ve lost count.

He looked between you and the popsicle for a few seconds, sighed heavily, and handed it to you. As you nibbled on the popsicle, he uncomfortably shifted his weight between his feet and waited for you to finish. 

When you were done with it, he cleared his throat and began to rifle through a small bag that was slung over his shoulder. A few moments later, he pulled out a trinket that was engraved in gold.

“You’re (Y/N) (L/N), right?” His voice was soft as he handed you the item. “Take these. It’s a talisman, it should keep the demons at bay.”

Taking the talisman in hand, you flipped it over a few times and considered the boy carefully. Hundreds- no, thousands- of exorcists have tried their hand to free you from the demons who chose you to haunt. What would make this boy any different?

“It’s not like they’ll ever leave.” You mumbled to yourself.

For a moment he looked almost excited, but quickly hid it with a stoic expression, “Can you still hear them?”

You paused. What an odd question. Of course, you could still hear them, why, they were...

“...silent.” You looked up at him, partially horrified, partially euphoric. “They’re silent.”

He sighed to himself, “I see.” The boy stretched and began to walk away, believing his job to be done.

But the moment he left your eyesight, the voices came back louder than ever. 

“Why did you try to get rid of us? Don’t you love us? We love you! Stay with us. Stay with us. Stay with us.”

“Stay.”

A scream fell from your lips, you gripped and pulled at your hair, trying to regain the peaceful silence you had mere moments ago.

Cold hands on your shoulders, heavy breathing, and the scent of various herbs and old paper. You opened your eyes and saw the somewhat panicked cat slit eyes staring at you.

“They came back.” You breathed.

He sat next to you and went deep into his thoughts. For half an hour, the two of you sat there in silence. You relished it, taking in and memorizing every hint of life you hadn’t been able to hear before. He hated it, remembering each time his pure positive energy stopped him from performing his job. 

“Can I...” you finally spoke, breaking the silence, “come with you?”

The out of the blue comment surprised him, but not a hint of that surprise showed on his face, “Why?”

“They’re quiet when you’re here. I never realized how good the quiet was.”

He considered it for a moment, looked at you, “Fine.”

You sighed in relief, “Oh, thank the Archons...”

“But.”

“Oh no.”

“You have to help me get my friend Xingqiu back.”

You blinked at him. ‘Get him back’? Was he in danger? Was he kidnapped somehow? You knew a bit of fighting but not enough to go raid a camp full of stronger, more trained adults.

“He keeps pranking me. I need to get him back.” The boy shook his head solemnly, “Every day he tells me that I’ll finally see a demon. Every day he makes fun of me when I get back.”

“Oh!” You tried to fight the smile that was building on your lips, “Okay. Yeah, I can do that. I, uh, sure. Okay.”

He stood and shook the dirt off his clothes, “We aren’t too far from Liyue Harbor. That’s usually where he stays. It’ll be about uh... a 12-hour walk.” 

“12... hours...” you squeaked. You shook the nervousness away and managed a shaky smile, “You never told me your name.”

The boy paused a moment, “Chongyun.”

You and Chongyun walked in synchrony after hour 3. He kept his distance but always made sure to be close enough so the voices wouldn’t return. Chongyun found you to be eerily calm considering your situation.

Xingqiu told him that you’d been abandoned by your family after years of the spirits gaining strength and losing patience. For the first time, Xingqiu seemed panicked. He begged Chongyun to set out to find you. 

Who was Chongyun to say no? 

His original plan was just to give you the talisman and leave but... this might work out better. The way Xingqiu had described you, it was obvious you were someone close to his heart. Maybe he’d be happy to see you relatively safe and sound. Chongyun liked the idea of that. 

“...yun?”

Chongyun turned to face you, barely feeling your hand grip onto his sleeve. 

“What is it?” He internally winced at how cold he sounded.

“Thank you.” You let go of his sleeve and ran your hands up your arms, “It’s been... ah. Just, thank you. Could you tell me more about your friend?”

“Xingqiu? He’s... hm. He’s really smart. He helps me think of ideas to finally see a demon-”

“You’ve never seen one?” You interrupted him. “Why would you want to see one?”

He slightly puffed out his chest, “It’s my duty as an exorcist to continue the family lega-”

“Screw that! You’ve been blessed! I wish I had that.” You kicked a small rock that lied in your path.

Chongyun sighed heavily. He’s seen this reaction many times over the years, “It makes my job harder.”

“How? Just sit still and bam! Demons gone!”

“I have to draw and describe them in The Field Guide to Demons and Beasts. Not being able to see them makes it... hard.”

You exhaled, “I still wish I had that power.”

“It’s...” he shook his head. “Nevermind. We can talk about it later.”

The two of you walked the rest of the way, with some snack breaks, in silence. 

As you arrived in Liyue, you caught sight of a navy blue haired boy anxiously pacing in front of the entrance. You paused, narrowed your eyes, thought for a moment and when the realization set in, you cried out in glee.

“Xingqiu!” You yelled. The boy looked towards you and quickly dashed in your direction. As he came to a stop, he gripped your hands and smiled happily at you, “Oh, Archons, how long has it been?”

“4 years? When I heard how your family sent you out, I knew I had to do something!” He tightened his grip on your hands as his smile fell. “Are you alright? Are you injured anywhere? Are they...?”

You sighed and let your grip loosen, “I’ve been better. They’re a lot quieter when I’m with him.” You nodded towards Chongyun who was awkwardly standing while chewing on a popsicle.

“Did you get to see them?” Xingqiu asked Chongyun.

“No,” he spoke dejectedly. “There’s has to be at least one demon who isn’t as strong as it, right?”

“It?” You looked between the two boys.

“My ‘power’.” Chongyun specified.

“Ahhh,” you nodded, “well. I’m utterly exhausted. Xingqiu, can I stay at your place tonight?”

“Su-”

“You can stay at mine.” 

You and Xingqiu both looked at Chongyun, surprised by his sudden offer. 

“It’s only to make sure the demons don’t come back during the night.” He spoke, digging his toe into the dirt and suddenly very interested in a nearby bush.

“Can Xingqiu stay with us? I just... well, I don’t really know you.” You nervously laughed, “I’d just feel more comfortable if he were there.”

“In that case, let’s just skip the walk and stay at my place. I’m sure Father wouldn’t mind.” Xingqiu looked between the two of you. You looked at Chongyun, who was still entranced with a nearby bush and waited for his response. After a few moments of silence, he nodded his head.

The three of you walked the streets of Liyue, the further you got the more familiar it felt. Dogs who always licked at your heels, tourists surprised at the food, children laughing and chasing each other. 

You stopped walking and looked around in awe. The boys, caught up in conversation, hadn’t noticed. 

Is this how it feels like? To not be afraid? You almost didn’t believe it. No, you definitely didn’t believe it. They were gone, it was quiet. You couldn’t feel their warm claws digging into your shoulders, nor their cold breaths on your cheek. Anything you wanted to do you could. The voices and demons would never bother you again as long as-

“Why do you keep trying to leave us?” 

You gulped, sweat beading at your brow as you spun around. No, this isn’t right. 

You got rid of them. They’re gone. It’s been half a day and you hadn’t heard them, you’re free. So why...

“Listen to us. We just want to keep you safe. Don’t you want that too?”

...why were they back?

Why did you feel their nails beginning to pierce your skin as rose petals slipped down your shoulder? Why could you hear their melodic hums in your ears as their tongues tied and twisted around you? 

Your eyes were unfocused, your legs were shaking, you swallowed every bit of spit that lingered in your mouth but your throat still ran dry. You could almost hear pounding footsteps; could almost feel a boy with navy blue hair pushing through the crowd until his hand wrapped around your wrist and yanked you forward. 

Your feet were moving. That much you knew. Where you were going and why they were moving were two separate matters entirely. Slowly, the voices were replaced by panting and their burning claws melted into cool metal.

“...huh?” you spoke as you gathered your senses. Why were you sitting on the streets of Liyue? You looked around and felt your shoulders immediately relax as you saw Xingqiu. “Xing... Xingqiu?” 

He was holding your left hand tightly, trying to manage a reassuring smile despite his panicked eyes. You looked to the boy pressing the cold circular object against your shoulder.

“What’s...” you yawned, “What’s happening?”

“I, uh, we got wrapped up in the conversation. We thought you were right behind us.” Xingqiu looked at the ground guiltily, “You just about passed out.”

You looked up at Chongyun, taking note of the determination in his eyes. “I guess I’m kinda stuck to you for a while, huh?” You laughed sadly.

He froze and looked down at you, his eyebrows knitting together as his lips turned into a tight frown, “I don’t think that makes me stuck to you.”

“True, you could always drop me off at... well, anywhere.” You rested your head against the wall you were propped up against, “It’s not really you who's stuck.”

Chongyun shook his head, “That’s not what I meant.”

A soft blush covered your cheeks, “Oh.” 

Xingqiu looked between the two of you and quickly bit his tongue. 

“Don’t interfere, Xingqiu.” He chided himself. “Your childhood crush is nothing. It’s been 4 years! They just met anyway.”

He shook the anxiety away and tried to ignore the sinking feeling in his stomach. All old crushes die out eventually, he’ll be fine. 

He was not fine.

It’s been 2 months since your arrival and he’s found himself as head-over-heels for you as he was 4 years ago. He took every opportunity he could to spend time with you. He was jealous of Chongyun, and he hated it. 

Chongyun got to spend all day with you. Chongyun spent hours training with you and planning ways to beat your demons. 

Chongyun was his best friend! It’s fine! Your just his friend, it’s okay! He’s okay with that!

“Mmm, okay I think I get it.” You spoke, pointing at a book that was spread between you and Chongyun, “This is for healing and that’s why we need it.”

“We also should bless it in pure rainwater.”

“Chongy, do we need to wait for it to rain here? Who knows how long that’ll be...” 

Chongy.

Chongy.

A nickname. You gave Chongyun a nickname. Why didn’t you give him a nickname? Xingqiu found he could no longer ignore the feelings building in his chest. He tore through every book in his collection, nearly memorized every declaration of love. 

For 20 minutes a day, you were alone. You and Chongyun were testing your tolerance and slowly but surely, it was growing. That was good news all around. Xingqiu took these measly 20 minutes as an opportunity. He knocked on the door to your room and waited for a response. A few minutes passed and he grew anxious. He announced his presence and let himself into your room. 

It was eerily clean. Xingqiu called your name a few more times and grew more and more confused as he couldn’t find a trace that you had ever been there. He sat on your bed and jumped when he heard something crunch beneath him. 

Right where he sat, a note was lied out.

Chongyun and Xingqiu -

I’ve decided I’m going to try to go back home.

I know you’d try to stop me... so I figured it’d be best to just run for it. I think I’m enough now. Enough for them.

 I’ll use the skills we went over and I’ll control the demons! They’ll be so happy. 

Thank you for helping me.I’ll write again when I arrive so you know I’m safe. Feel free to visit!

-(Y/N)

Meanwhile, you knocked on the door of your family's home. The entire trip over you’d been practicing what to say to them. Your mother opened the door and gasped when she saw you.

“(Y/N)?” She whispered, her eyes wide. “How are you...?”

“I’m back.” You sheepishly smiled. “I, ummm, I spent a lot of time getting control of them. I think I’m better now. See? They’re not even here!”

“S-Stay here...” she half-jogged deeper into your house and didn’t return. You awkwardly stood around, twiddling your thumbs, not even noticing the shovel about to hit the back of your head and knock you unconscious. 

When you woke up, your hands were tied behind your back and you were surrounded by the damp scent of rotting wood. It was dark and your head hurt.

Where were you? This isn’t right. You had been going home. No, you were home. You saw your mother. Why are you here? Are they afraid? No. No, that doesn’t make sense. 

You did your best. You thought it was enough... wasn’t it enough? The voices had stopped. You made friends. You...Tears bloomed in your eyes as you harshly bit into your lip. 

You thought they’d love you if you came home the way they wanted. Why didn’t they love you? Where was Chongyun? Where was Xingqiu?

You missed them. You wanted Chongyun to sit next to you like he always does. You wanted to hear him enthuse about exorcism. You wanted to lie your head in his lap and tease him. Just like you always do.

“Chongy...” you muttered to yourself. “I lo...”

A loud crash upstairs forced a gasp from your lips. In horror, you sat silently and hoped the house wasn’t getting robbed. The yelling, banging, and screaming wasn’t easing your nerves.

You sat as still as you could, hoping that whoever was up there wouldn’t hurt you. Praying even. Light flooded the room which made you wince and turn away. “(Y/N)?” A familiar voice called.

You looked in the direction of the voice and let the tears fall loose. There, at the top of a staircase, stood Chongyun. The light behind him made him look like an angel.

“Ch... Chongy!” You yelled. He raced down the stairs and looked at you. “Chongyun, Archons, I’m so happy to see you.”

He worked quickly, untying your hands and letting you collapse into his arms. “Xingqiu and I came as fast as we could...”

You gripped onto his shirt and held him closer, “I’m so sorry.”

“For what?”

“I thought... I thought they loved me.”

“I know.” He drew loose circles on your back with his finger, “I know.”

You rested your head in the crook of his neck and let the scent of various herbs and old paper engulf you.

Xingqiu, who had just finished fighting your parents, stopped at the top of the stairs and smiled at you two. It was the first time he’d seen Chongyun able to touch someone without his congenital positivity overflowing... 

Maybe you were helping him just as much as he was helping you.