#kays may the gods that bless your hands bless mine

[dawnofiight]

I thought @artbykays Angel was super duper adorable so I HAD to make a quick sketch because JUST LOOKSJQBOSHQOSHWOSBWNQA. I would like to bite all of your versions of the listeners ESPECIALLY LOVELY!!

[mrs-march-ahs]

Hii, angel! Soo, since you said that no one requested this yet, what about jealous Evan's characters?? 👀 Thankss, have a nice day! (Love uuu 💞💞)

The Evans Being Jealous

So many other fics of mine seemed to fit with this one! An unexpected fic that links well is The Evans Reacting To The Reader Coming Out As Bi, because most of them are jealous!

Sorry this took so long sunshine, enjoy! <3

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Tate

-A ghost who would even remotely be interested in you, would be a threat to Tate -Think Gabriel at the end of Murder House -Tate would do everything he could, sob, threaten them, scare them, to make sure they knew you were off limits -If you found this attractive he would just awkwardly tell you that he’s doing it to protect you, that that guy would not treat you as well as he should therefore he needs to go -If you didn’t find it attractive, and found his possessiveness off-putting, Tate would get really upset -In his eyes, he’s doing it all for you, so he would sit and sob and complain to the ghost -Tatey is a soft, sensitive boy but if he had to, he would act tough in front of them   -When you and Tate argued about him doing this to every person remotely interested in you, he would get insecure and ask if you found them attractive -If not, he wouldn’t be that relieved because he’s a little insecure -If yes, oh god

Kit

-Pretty easily jealous, doesn’t like when other men even look at you -He would be super angry at them, shout at them, put his arm around your waist -Wouldn’t get into arguments but would just bark something like, “What are you staring at?” -Kit isn’t angry often so it would be insanely hot to you -But he’d be mad at you too -Any jealous situation would make him mad, at everyone -He would somehow try to make you feel as though it’s your fault for being attractive and catching the eye of others -But after he cools down, he would apologise -He never means to lash out or upset you but other men flirting with you or looking at you is the one thing that pisses him off -You may have to kiss him and cuddle him so he can hold you and know in his heart that you’re all his -Jealous Kit Fic

Frat Kyle

-At a frat party, if there was another boy flirting with you or giving you a drink he would just come up to you and put his arm around your shoulders, so it was easy to see for everybody else -Call you more pet names than usual -Baby, sweetie, my girl -If any guy continues flirting with you even in front of him, he’ll humiliate him as much as he physically can to make him seem unappealing to you - “Jeff nobody wants to see your dick, no matter how small it is” -As if you’d consider cheating on him

Franken Kyle

-When in public, Kyle always has his hand in your back pocket, mostly so he doesn’t get lost -You two hold hands a lot too so it’s clear you’re not single -But once in a while somebody will be inappropriate to you when you’re out with Kyle, because to most people he looks like hard work, and they don’t see the sweet boy inside -You two sit in a restaurant having dinner together and the waiter will flirt with you, ignoring Kyle completely cause he just assumes that Kyle doesn’t even understand -Even though Kyle can’t identify his negative feelings as ‘jealousy’, he knows he doesn’t like it -Pushes the waiter over or pulls him by his shirt away from you - “Stop…m-mine” -You’ll just apologise and leave together and Kyle will look back at the waiter and glare at him -Then once you get home you must give Kyle 120% of your attention -Don’t expect his arm off your shoulders for the rest of the day

Jimmy

-It takes the most out of the boys to get him jealous -Wants to see the good in people and will assume that you’re just being friendly, unless he’s already in a bad mood because of something else, or if the friendliness goes too far -50% of the time, he’ll get upset and insecure, thinking that his time with you is up and now you’re gonna leave him for somebody ‘normal’ -Other 50% of the time, his inner Florida man tells him he needs to fight them -Needs reassurance so he might seek your attention in negative ways, if you’re talking to a man with a smile on your face, even while just selling tickets, he’ll walk up to the two of you to assess the situation -“I’ll leave you two alone to get to know each other”, and then walks away just to see if you’ll follow him -You obviously do and ask him what his deal is -“If you’re tired of dating a freak and you wanna date somebody normal, at least have the decency to tell me Y/N” -“Oh my god Jimmy, where would you get that idea from? I obviously want to date you, I love you” -“Alright… just needed to hear that” -That night you need to spoon and cuddle and kiss -He’ll give you a few hickeys to mark you and you’ll do the same to him, making him melt completely -And if he’s mad, he’s mad -Definitely not foreign to bar fights -Would pick a fight with you when you get home just to get you annoyed and have angry sex with you

James

-Gets jealous incredibly easily -You weren’t even allowed to come to Devil’s Night for the first few years because there are so many creepy men around -He’d spot a man buying you drink at the bar -Cleopatra would warn you that he’s incoming probably -James would calmly walk over to the two of you and tell whoever you’re with that you are not interested -If he’s particularly in the mood, he might make some shitty comment - “She is a lady, and a lady needs more to be pleased than a 5”5 man and a Martini” -I have a very in depth fic about this situation, linked here

Kai

-Kai would be angry in front of them, a little shitty to you too -“You think a twink like you could ever score her?” -He would be sarcastic and condescending to you, like usual -He would explain to you how lucky you are that you have a man to protect you from creeps -After one time I don’t think he would kill them, but if they ever even looked at you again, they’d be dead -Probably take it out on you, but not in the same way as Jimmy, not in a protective or angry way but in a possessive way -He would punish you in any way he felt necessary like teasing you for hours and hours, telling you over and over how blessed and lucky you are to have him, and how stupid you are to do anything to ever risk losing him -He might fuck you and humiliate you enough with his words until you cry -Ways in which Kai might punish you -Getting Punished Fic

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taglist, dm or comment to be added or taken away, i wont be upset:)

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[ikeromantic]

Congrats on your 600 followers! U are awesome!

May I request possessive kiss for ikesen Shingen in sweet and spicy please?

Thank you! ❤️

Shingen spent the day meeting with visitors from the villages across the Kai. He expected his angel to join him. When she didn’t, he realized she must be busy with her own work. It didn’t bother him. Much. After all, when the work was done, he’d have her all to himself.

After ending his final meeting, he went looking for her. She wasn’t with the castle seamstresses. She wasn’t in her room. She wasn’t in his room either. Shingen began to worry. As his lover, she was a target for any enemy of the Takeda. What if something had happened?

Heart hammering in his chest, he sought out Kenshin. Just as he was about to rush in, he heard his angel. Her sweet laughter, voice raised in joy. He slowed down and walked in, as if in no hurry.

His lover looked up from where she sat beside Kenshin, sake cup in hand. “Shingen! Kenshin was just telling me a funny story about the time you two were fighting and you smacked him on the nose with a fan.”

Shingen’s eyes widened. “You’re telling her those stories?” He was surprised to find you there and chatting with Uesugi. The God of War was not known for his patience with women.

Kenshin smiled thinly and nudged the girl’s arm with his elbow. “She listens well and knows how to drink. Don’t act as if this is a surprise. You are the one insisting we should get along.”

“And we are! As long as Kenshin holds back on the death threats, I promised I’d drink with him.”

“I see.” Shingen smiled, but it felt false. He did want her to get along with Kenshin, and everyone at Kasugayama. But seeing his angel here, having fun with another man . . . it pricked his heart. Thorns of jealousy, he thought, and tried to quash the feeling. Afterall, she had been understanding of all his past paramours - the near endless parade of former lovers and admirers. Surely he could let this pass . . .

“Do you want to join us,” she asked.

Kenshin seemed to perceive Shingen’s mood. Or perhaps he’d simply had enough female company. He waved them off. “No. I am finished entertaining you tonight. You should leave.” His eyes narrowed. “Unless I need to threaten you with death to be rid of you?”

She stood quickly, a little unsteady on her feet. “Nope! No! Not necessary. I’ve had enough to drink anyway.”

Shingen took her arm. “I’ll help you to your room.” He exchanged an understanding look with Kenshin. “See you tomorrow. Try not to give yourself a hangover.”

“As if I ever do.” Kenshin sounded bored and annoyed, his usual affectation.

The lovers left, walking slowly toward their rooms. The castle pathways were quiet, empty of all but the occasional servant. Above them, the moon hung in a crescent smile, thinly lighting their way.

At the door to her room, Shingen stopped.

“I guess this is goodnight?” She looked up at him, eyes wide and dark in the moonlight.

Shingen leaned down until his lips were almost touching hers. “I think not. I have spent all day aching for you, my goddess. You can’t send me away without a blessing.”

Her eyes fluttered closed as his breath tickled her cheek. She rose up on tiptoe, meaning to give him a light, sweet kiss. He meant to let her. He did. But the press of her soft mouth against his woke his hunger. His need for her.

He lifted her up, pressing her back against the wall. His mouth crushed against hers. She moaned against his mouth, and between her parted lips, his tongue sped. Tasting, stroking. His whole world narrowed to just this, the feel of her pressed to him. The taste of her. The sound of her muffled pleasure.

“My goddess . . . angel . . .” He kissed down from her mouth across the line of her jaw. Suckling her ear and then nipping at her neck. “A kiss for every moment we were apart,” he sighed.

“Deal.” She turned her head to press her lips to his again, biting at his lower lip, teasing with her tongue. She slid her hands under his clothes, running her nails lightly across his chest.

It was his turn to gasp. He tightened his grip on her, holding her up off the ground, against him.

She wrapped her legs around his waist.

Mine, his heart sang, as he pulled her kimono loose. “Mine,” he gasped as she bit his shoulder.

“Yours,” she whispered, and kissed him again.

[codevassie]

a heart he couldn’t control (destined to love and hate and damn forever) Part 5

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | On Ao3 | Part 6

CV: Long time no see! I’ve been pretty busy between my big bang and work lately, so it took a lot longer to edit this than I thought it would. My big bang is done, but work is still in full-swing, and school is about to start back up, so who knows when part 6 will be out. Hope you all have been doing well lately and that you enjoy this part! Thanks!

And thank you to An who put up with me ranting to them for hours while I was writing this part. I appreciate you always and forever! 

CW: Kidnapping Mention, Trauma, Weapons, Yelling, Attempted Violence, Murder Mention

@winterwynd @escalatingtoofast @prox-xima

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Roman fled the forest in an increasingly agitated state. His fists balled at his sides, borrowed cloak billowing in his gait, Roman's eyes matched fire as he marched out of the witch's territory and for hours through the rest of the land, passing through the fields and into the town. It was exhausting, but, by the time he'd arrived, Roman had made up his mind what he would do. 

Because, by gods, he was not giving up. Never. 

If what Virgil had said was any indication, Roman knew someone else who wouldn't either. 

Roman rapped quickly on the man's door. Patton, surprise coloring his features, opened it wide. 

"Prince Roman?" 

"You knew Virgil would be in the witch's woods," he said, getting right to the point. "And you knew this cloak has magic. What else do you know?" 

At that, Patton startled, looking about before ushering Roman inside. "Let's talk in here." 

Roman let himself be coaxed to the living room in it's dim glow and warmth. He barely registered it, despite the wary and rather chilly expedition he had taken before arriving here. He turned again to Patton, looking for answers. 

"You must be freezing, Ro!" Patton exclaimed, reaching to take his hands. Roman let him, heating his frozen fingers between Patton’s own. As he did so, Roman took his chance to implore the man for answers. 

"Please, Pat," he said. "I need to know everything. Whatever I can–so I can save him." 

Patton looked up. His eyes, usually bright and cheery, were tired. He smiled, but it wasn't all there. Roman gave pause. 

"Why don't I brew us some tea for this conversation?" 

Roman frowned. He didn't want tea; he wanted answers. Despite this, he nodded. 

Something told him he needed to slow down for Patton. The man needed time, though Roman's mind insisted he had none to spare. 

That wasn't princely, though. He must treat everyone with kindness, with care. And though his brash nature urged him to demand answers now, he could tell it was a more delicate matter than previously anticipated. 

"Of course, Pat." 

Patton led them to a table, sat Roman down, then set about in the kitchen to prepare tea using flowers from the same basket he’d carried that morning. Roman clutched Virgil's cloak close as he waited. 

When there were two mugs between them, Patton sat carefully across from him, the man gave a smile. 

"It's a long story," he said. 

"Tell at your own pace," Roman replied. Patton looked down at his mug, wrapped between two hands. Roman took a sip of his own. A pretty weak brew, but it was delicate on his tongue. 

"Did Virgil tell you I have magic?" 

Roman's eyes widened. He choked a bit on his tea, and Patton had to hide a smile behind his hand. 

"I guess that's where I'll start then. I have magic, Ro. Have all my life."

"Why would you tell me?" Roman asked, practically sputtering. He'd never been afraid of magic, no, but his citizens didn't know that! Patton could have just sent himself to the gallows! Roman was the prince. 

"You must know about Vee's abilities by now if you went to the witch's land to find him. And, even if you didn't, I can tell you're a good guy." Patton shrugged. "I've had magic where it's illegal all my life. I think I know by now who to tell or not." 

"Oh… kay," Roman responded, sinking back into his chair a little bit. He couldn't relax, not when Virgil's freedom was at stake, but he was less concerned for Patton now at least. The guy may seem naive, but he was right. He'd been keeping this secret and keeping himself safe all his life. 

"So, like I was saying, I've got magic. I wasn't snatched up by the witch at a young age, though, for whatever reason. Maybe that's because there's a lot more magic users out there than we're led to believe, and we just don't know it because we're all hiding in fear. Or something else. I don't know, but I grew up here, in town." 

"And it was a pretty happy childhood, I'd say. My parents weren't afraid of me–only that I might be found out. I learned early on how to control it all though. I put a lot of time into it, just so they didn't have to worry, you know? Virgil says I'm pretty powerful, but I don't know how much of that is natural talent or training. I used to practice so much just to make sure I wasn't found out. Magic comes so easily to me now because of it." 

Patton lifted his drink, took a small sip before putting it back down. It seemed more something for him to fiddle with than drink, something to give him a moment to collect his thoughts. Roman mirrored him and took a drink as well. 

"But it gets lonely, being so different. I didn't know anyone with magic. It was coincidence, that day I met Virgil, but I kept coming back. I was so curious about this boy in the woods with magic. At first, it was astounding. He lived where he could do magic all the time? Everyone he lived with had it too? A family of magic-makers, how about that?" 

"Magic-makers?" Roman asked, amused. Patton shifted. 

"In school or in town, sorcerers or magicians were always something people talked about with… such hatred. It's what we are, I know. And they aren't bad words. But I sort of like magic-makers, you know?" 

"Oh," Roman said, biting his lip at his insensitivity. "Of course. Sorry." 

Patton shook his head. "No need. Like I said, they aren't bad words." 

He shrugged, put his head in his hand. "Now where was I?" Patton said. "A family of magic-makers. Pretty cool. I couldn't imagine something so nice. But sometimes things that sound nice like that aren't all they seem. As we got to know each other, Virgil told me more and more about the witch. And, I don't know. One day, I asked if he wanted to leave with me." 

Roman furrowed his brow. "There's a catch here, isn't there?" 

"Believe it or not, no," Patton said. "I studied up on anti-tracking spells, protection spells, other hiding spells, and one day he simply snuck out and left. We were both so worried–I was counting ways she could have found out, could have hurt him. But she didn't. We were pretty careful over the years and were able to hide from her."

"Until I ruined everything," Roman grumbled. 

"I-" Patton faltered, looking torn. "I don't actually know that part yet, bud." 

Roman closed his eyes. Of course he didn't. 

"Here," Patton said, voice getting softer. He placed a hand over Roman's–kind, even when Roman hadn't yet explained, even when Patton knew enough by now to blame him. Roman opened his eyes to soft blue ones, forgiveness sure and true. "Why don't I tell the rest of mine and then we'll get to your story?" 

Roman could only nod. Patton smiled, but somehow it made the prince feel worse. 

Patton had every right to be angry with him. Yet Roman let him proceed. 

"When I couldn't find Vee in the library this morning, I knew there was only one place he could have gone. I magiked my way right outside the witch's territory, since she has wards blocking teleportation. I ran into you and pretended to pick berries. Then I went and found Virgil." Patton looked down, a shadow falling over his face. "Sure enough, she's got him. After everything, she's got him again." 

"You were pretending to pick berries?" Roman asked. "I guess that makes sense. You were pretty far out into the woods." 

Patton smiled, shrugged. "I got a good bit of berries out of it. And these flowers for the tea," he said, gesturing to their mugs. But he wasn't into it. It was easy to tell why. 

"You deserve to know why this happened," Roman said. 

Patton looked up, eyes vulnerable. "Why did this happen, Ro?" He didn't even sound accusing. That made it all the worse. 

"Well…" Roman said, searching his mind to find the best way to start. "Three years ago, I found the witch's cave." 

-/-

Keep going north. When you find the boulders, you will approach the mountains on your left. Be careful, though, because the witch will use spells to throw you from the trail. You can only approach the caves with her blessing, so make sure you have something to offer.

Roman looked down at his hands. 

He had nothing to offer. Nothing but his life. 

He was going to get his brother back.

Roman looked up. The cave rested before him.

"I would advise against doing what you're about to do," someone said. Roman spun around, sword at hand. It was a little heavy, a bit rough around the edges, but it was the best Roman could budget around odd jobs and a need for food. 

There, in the shadows, sat a figure, legs dangling over the cliff the cave sat on. Roman wasn't sure how he hadn't seen them before. 

"Are you the witch they say lives here?" he asked, looking him over. He wasn't particularly remarkable. Drab brown hair hanging loosely over his face. A short cape hanging around him, useless against the elements–even more useless than the torn cloak Roman wore. 

The other chuckled. "I am not. And you don't want to meet her." 

"She has my brother," Roman said, swiping his sword down. Maybe he was a threat, or maybe he wasn't. He wasn't the threat Roman had come looking for though. 

When the figure stood up, however, Roman raised the weapon again, just in case. No one could stop him from getting inside. Roman had come too far, had waited too long to be stopped now. 

The other stepped into the light, eyes glowing–really, glowing–a yellow-gold color. His hair still hung, long and heavy, over one half of his face. 

He was just a boy. Maybe around Roman's age. 

Perhaps… another boy the witch had stolen? Like his brother? 

"So you're Remus' brother," the boy said, looking him over. His eyes were calculated, skeptical, far older than Roman had ever seen–and he'd witnessed the eyes of poverty and fear, of boys growing up in the streets, of wise old women, of tired teachers, of girls without voice or choice in the hands of unkind families. "You're Roman."

"You know my brother?" Roman asked, unable to help the wonder that crept into his voice. It had been so long since he'd heard anything of Remus. A part of Roman had started to fear he had made him up. Another part, that fate had befallen Remus, and Roman would never see him again. 

He was only here now on a whim. The people in town said the witch had boys who did her bidding–that any time someone entered her forest, one of them would appear, eyes alight with power, to scare them off. 

Something had told Roman this had to be it. And he was right. 

"Remus belongs here," the boy said. "You do not. If you don't want the witch to kill you, then you should go."

Roman crossed his arms, sword tucked uncomfortably in his armpit. The boy followed it closely with his eyes, and Roman could feel the judgement. "I'm not leaving!" 

"And what will you do? You're hardly a fighter, are you?" the boy said, gesturing to the sword. "Even if you were, no one can leave the caves alive." 

"Then I'll die trying!" Roman proclaimed, uncrossing his arms, and the tip of his sword hit the dust. 

"Noble words," the boy said. "Though more stupid than anything. You'll definitely die in there. Just don't say I didn't warn you." 

"Yeah yeah," Roman huffed, turning back towards the cave's entrance. "Any other words of warning, or can I go save my brother now?" 

"Your brother doesn't need saving," the boy rolled his eyes. "But go ahead and try." 

"I will," Roman said, nose stuck into the air. Then he rushed into the cave, not looking back. 

Finding his way through the passages and the dark was a lot harder than Roman had thought. He honestly hadn't expected the place to be so– well, big. Caves were usually one big cavern, weren't they? Enough room for a dragon and its hoard, plus a damsel or two. They weren't this big convoluted mess, with openings all around, some connected and some didn't, some went in big circles, spitting him back out into where he'd first arrived. And no torches! Where were all the torches? 

Roman was just lucky he had packed one with him for the forest, though there must have been oil all over his bag. It was worth it to light his way. 

And it was worth it when, at last, he found a room that was lit on its own–in different colors, no less! Roman knew magic when he saw it. 

He stomped out his torch and placed it down in the corridor. Roman tried approaching slowly, quietly, but, as soon as he saw the only occupant of the room, he gave up all pretense and ran. 

"Remus!" he shouted, rushing straight up to his brother. "Oh my gods, it's you. It's really you!"

Remus sat at a stool, surrounded on all sides by vials and vials of potions–the source of light for the room. It wasn't quite bright enough to show his face, still cast in shadow, but Roman would know his brother anywhere. 

Though older, now with a silver streak adorning his hair and the wispy start of a mustache, it was Remus. Roman was sure of it. 

"Remus!" a shrill voice interrupted them, someone outside. Roman turned, coming face-to-face with her as she walked in. "I have something wonderful to try out tod-" 

She stopped, surprised for a moment before rage narrowed her eyes. "Who. Are you?" 

Roman raised his sword, stood in front of his brother. "My name is Roman." 

She blinked, mouth coming up in a sneer. "Is that supposed to impress me? What are you doing in my home?" 

"I've come for my brother. You took him and now I'm here to rescue him," he said, trying to sound confident.

Roman may come off as brave, noble, stupid, arrogant–what have you. On the outside, that may be. But, really, Roman was scared.

He couldn't fight. Not with the sword he was carrying, or his fists, or with magic he hadn't inherited. Roman had no plan to get out of there and nothing to offer but himself. And he was scared. 

But he was there for his brother, and he wouldn't leave him. 

"That's adorable, little- what did you say your name was again?" 

Roman shifted, gripping his sword tighter. "Roman…" 

"That's adorable, little Roman. But, you see, Remus is a part of my little family now, and I would so hate to part from him. And, you must also see, you are a stranger. Breaking into my home." 

Roman blinked. "What?" 

The witch sighed, blowing at a strand of hair that had fallen into her face. Was she… pouting? Wasn't she supposed to be this terrifying witch or something? What was going on? 

"I think the only course of action here is self-defense," she said, resting a hand on her chin. Behind Roman, he heard Remus whimper. 

"Just let me take my brother and go," Roman demanded. "You stole him from me, from our town and our lives. If you require a trade, then take me instead. Just let Remus go." 

"Take you?" the witch sneered. "What would I need someone like you for? You don't have any magic." 

"I-" Roman went to argue, but she had a point. What could he offer? "I could learn. Or I could do other jobs. Anything- please." 

"Oh, begging won't get you anywhere, sweetie," she said, swiping her hand out from her chin. "Sorry, but you just don't have anything I want. That's okay though, because I can just kill you, and Remus will stay, and it will be like you were never even here. Sounds great!" 

"Wait, but there must be something!" Roman said. He could hear his brother mumbling behind him. What was he saying? Why wasn't he helping? Maybe together they could take down the witch! "Remus, help me!" 

"He can't hear you, but nice try," the witch said. "He stopped responding a month ago." 

"Stopped…" Roman said, trying to process the words. As he did, anger flooded his system, and he raised his sword. "What did you do to him?" 

"Oh goodness. Explaining myself is a drab," she said, tossing her hand about. "Goodnight, little Roman."

She raised her hand in front of her. Roman flinched, head turned away, arms up in defense, eyes nearly closed as he waited- waited-

Where was the pain? 

Roman squinted his eyes open, peeking out from behind his arm. Why wasn't he dying? 

From what he could see, the witch should have been killing him–her arm was outstretched, palm facing him, but there was a look of shock on her face. It was different to the surprise when she'd found him there. It was as if someone had come in and shaken her, rotated the earth beneath her and told her to find her way home. Something had upset her to her very core. 

Shit. And of course it had to have been Roman. 

This wasn't going to be a painless death, was it? 

"Sit down," she commanded, not moving an inch. Roman hesitated, but then she swatted her hand down, marched straight towards him in a fury. "I said sit down!" 

Roman scrambled backwards, finding a stool much like Remus' and sat. He felt sort of ridiculous there, waiting on her to kill him, but he was in no hurry to die. 

"Dee!" she shrieked, far from the calm and composed she had been before. She whizzed manically around the room, pulling books from shelves, flipping through and tossing them aside. Someone appeared in the door. 

"Yes?" 

It was the boy from outside. 

"Where is the book on pacts?" she asked, flipping through another before shaking her head. "What am I doing? Getting ahead of myself." 

She tossed it aside, though instead of crashing against a wall or cluttering to the ground, this one was caught in the hands of the boy–Dee, apparently. He placed it on the desk, though that was all Roman saw before his vision was filled with the dragon witch again. 

The witch clutched the sides of his head. Roman gasped and went to rip away, but she held on fast, claws digging in as her furious eyes scanned his face. 

What the heck was she doing?

"I knew it," she whispered, eyes alight with a dangerous mixture of magic and excitement. "I knew it!" she screamed, tearing away once more.

"What?" Dee asked from across the room, looking as confused as Roman felt. "Did you See something?" 

"Where's the book, Dee? I don't have all day." 

"I was studying it," he said. "It's on my desk." 

"Well, go get it," she urged. "Now! Now!" 

Dee scrambled out of the room, looking just the slightest bit miffed. Still, he obeyed without question. 

Once he got back, he handed the book over. The witch slammed it on one of her many tables and flipped through. Beside him, Remus started to mumble again, and Roman's attention drew to him. 

Focusing on him now, Roman could tell what was off. His eyes were glassy and unfocused. He was looking down, rocking slightly, nails digging into his forearms. Roman wanted to reach out, stop his brother from hurting himself, but was afraid that any movement might mean his doom. 

He wasn't the only one noticing Remus though. A shadow fell over them, and, when Roman looked up, he found Dee standing there. 

The boy reached out to his brother, gripped his hands and slowly messaged his knuckles. "Hey, Remus. Let's not hurt yourself, alright?" Slowly, Remus' hands relaxed and fell away. Dee kept them enveloped in his own hands as he turned back to the witch. "Did anything today work?" 

She didn't pay any mind. Dee frowned slightly and turned back to Remus. 

"We'll find a way to get you back," he said, almost too quiet to hear. Roman watched on with wide-eyes. When Dee looked his way, he narrowed his own. "What?" 

Roman shook his head quickly. "Nothing." 

Dee rolled his eyes, placed Remus' hands down. "Make sure he doesn't do that again." Then, he walked back to the witch. 

Roman… really didn't know what to make of Dee. 

"Perfect!" the witch suddenly exclaimed, snapping Roman's attention back to her. 

"Are you sure that will work?" Dee asked. "I mean, it is-"

"Watch and learn, Dee. This is why you are the pupil!"

She approached Roman. He watched on with a wary eye. 

"You want your brother back, yes?" 

Roman's eyes widened. His jaw almost dropped, but he elected to nod instead. 

"And I'm assuming you want to live in the process?" 

"Preferably," Roman squeaked. Oh gods, what was going on? 

"And wouldn't you like a big castle and lots of adoring citizens and to never be hungry again while you're at it?"

"I- sorry, what?" Roman asked, suddenly very confused. He hadn't said anything about… castles? citizens? 

"Oh, goodness, just say yes, darling," she said, but while her words were similar to the bored voice from earlier, she now looked more insistent, impatient.

"Um, sure," Roman decided, not ready to get on her bad side. Especially since things seemed to be going sorta okay now. 

"Perfect," she said, smiling plastically. "Now, just one more question!" 

"Yeah?" he asked, apprehensive. Things couldn't be going this well. There had to be a catch. There had to be some sort of-

"Are you willing to trade your one true love in order to get this?" 

Roman's eyes widened, his breath caught, choking on it as he sputtered. "I'm sorry, what?" 

"Trade your one true love, or I kill you and keep your brother. Sound fair?" 

"No!"

"Then what will it be?" she asked, leaning an elbow on a nearby table. She tried so hard to look nonchalant about it all, but Roman could see the sparks in her eyes, the tap of her foot. Something was going on here. 

Yet, Roman had no power to stop it. 

"I just don't get it. Why do you want my one true love? Why give me a… castle? Citizens?" 

"It's a hefty bargain we're making," she said, shrugging. "And I don't have to explain what I want him for. You just need to say yes." 

"But… I-" Roman looked down at his lap. "I couldn't do that to somebody." 

"You sorta have to, hun," she said. "Must I remind you, him or death?" 

Roman looked over at his brother. Remus, for the first time, was looking back. His eyes were wide, no longer glassy, but their old green. He seemed to be searching Roman, expression just a tad confused, like he was trying to match him to somewhere- someone. 

It didn't matter if he remembered Roman. It didn't matter if Remus never spoke a word to him again. Roman had come this far to save him- Had hunted every forest, had searched every town, had trekked for two years now, far and wide, in search of his brother.

He'd already been willing to offer up his own life to save him.

Was he willing to offer up someone else's? 

Roman closed his eyes, already knowing the answer. It pained him–more than words could say. But he knew. 

"Alright," he said. "I accept." 

The witch squealed–actually squealed–before placing her hands on his head again. At the contact, Roman's eyes snapped open. 

"Then the pact is made," she said. 

The next thing Roman knew, he was encased in a sparkling dust. 

And when he awoke, he was in a castle.

-/-

"That's how you became prince?" Patton asked, baffled. Roman nodded, looking sheepish. 

"That's how I became prince," he agreed. "Though, technically, Remus is a prince too. Just not many people know about him." 

"Has he- gotten any better?" Patton asked, concern shining in his eyes. 

"I'd like to think so," Roman said, shrugging. "But it's hard to tell. The only time he's been really cognizant was yesterday… when we went to find Virgil." 

"So, that's Virgil then? Your one true love." Patton asked softly. Roman looked down at his tea, now cold, and he swirled it in the mug. 

"That's him," Roman sighed. "So she came and took him."  

"I suppose that's how she got past our wards. Pacts are already strong magic, but, by the sound of it, yours contained love magic too." 

"Virgil said it might not have been love magic,' Roman said. Patton pursed his lips. 

"While it's possible, I don't think that's likely. A pact like that–it's really strong. Trading one life for another would have been enough if it was your life, but it was someone else's you were bargaining. That paired with the fact she was using love magic as her tracking method, she would have to trade you something massive. I'm guessing that's why she made you prince." 

"Isn't that like dark magic or something? Can she do that without repercussion?" Roman asked. 

"There's no such thing as dark or evil magic," Patton said. "Just dark or evil ways of using it. I'd consider a lot of what the witch does as such." 

Roman’s heart sunk. "Would you consider selling someone else's life away as it?" 

Patton snapped out of his thoughts, looking troubled. "Roman," he said with a frown. "You are not evil." 

"It was a pretty evil thing to do though," he remarked, trying not to look Patton in the eye. 

"You are not at fault here," Patton said, voice oddly stern. Roman looked up to Patton's serious expression. "The witch looked into your future, saw something she wanted, and twisted you into letting her have it. She presented it like you had a choice because that's what a pact entails, but you really didn't have a choice at all, Roman. You had to save yourself and your brother." 

"But Virgil," Roman argued. 

"We're going to save Virgil," Patton said, and he sounded so certain in that moment, like there was absolutely no question to it. "And he wouldn't want you to feel guilty about this, Ro." 

Roman shook his head. "He already told me he was angry. Back in the woods, he yelled how I sold his life away. He hates me, Pat." 

"Virgil…" Patton sighed, sloshing his mug around. "Virgil is afraid right now. He thought he was finally safe, and now he's right back in the place he never wanted to go back to. He's alone, and there's nothing he can do with that stupid sigil on his arm-"

"Sigil?" Roman asked. "What sigil?"

Patton looked up, surprised, before nodding. "I guess he didn't tell you. The witch gave him this sigil on his arm. It's warped protective magic–makes it so he's trapped there, can't even leave if he wants to. More like possessive magic, if you ask me. Like I said, no evil magic, just evil uses." 

"So that's why he wouldn't leave with me," Roman said, nails tapping the table. "I figured there was something." 

"Yes, but the thing is, only the caster can take the sigil off."

"So we find another way!" Roman insisted. 

Patton smiled, then gestured to the other room. "That's what I've been trying to do. Everything about sigils, protective charms, casters–I've been scouring my books. I haven't gotten far with the time I've had." 

"Then perhaps an extra set of eyes will help," Roman suggested. 

Patton smiled, though it came out tired. Suddenly, Roman was very aware of the time–and of the less than ideal past 36 hours. To think, just yesterday Remus had been dragging him through the corridors in search of Virgil's library. 

Roman hadn't slept in… well, quite a while. Hadn't eaten either. 

"I would appreciate the help, Roman, but I think we both need some food and rest first," Patton said. Roman couldn't bring himself to complain. Suddenly, he felt dead on his feet. All the adrenaline that had kept him going was gone. 

Sleepily, he bobbed his head. 

"I have a guest bedroom down the hall to the right if you want to go lay down," Patton suggested. Roman knew that if he laid down now, he'd be out the whole night, but he couldn't bring himself to care. 

"Thank you, Padre," he drawled lazily. 

Patton giggled. "I'll leave some food in the fridge in case you wake up." 

"You're the best." 

That only made Patton giggle more, though it faded into the background as Roman disappeared up the hallway, heading to the door on the right as was instructed. 

He thought about Virgil.

He thought about his brother. 

He thought about Patton and the dragon witch, and he even thought about that boy, the one Remus always mentioned. Dee. 

And when he collapsed onto the mattress, Roman thought of nothing at all. 

-/-

It took time. A lot of it. But Roman and Patton did their research. 

They scoured Patton's books inch by inch. "I don't have nearly the collection I imagine the dragon witch does, but you never know what we could find!" 

They didn't find anything. 

When they moved over to the library, Roman was met with a host of memories, good and bad. The place was still a mess. There were no coughing guards in the corner. The anxious bookkeeper was nowhere to be found. 

Roman thought it was his duty to tidy things up, after everything that had happened, so he set about to right the shelves and pick up the piles of books. He unfolded the bent pages, hoping their creases would flatten a little if put back correctly. 

It wasn't nearly as difficult cleaning it all up as Roman would have thought. Being a public library and all, the call numbers were neatly written out on the spines. It was just time consuming. 

It took a day to set that right, then he joined Patton in looking through some of the folklore section. Books on magic were prohibited, but, according to Patton, myths came pretty close to the real thing. 

"The palace won't be looking for you, will they?" Patton asked on their third day of search–Roman's first joining him in folklore.

Roman frowned. The palace would definitely be looking for him. 

"This is more important," he said, flipping a page. He saw Patton stop what he was doing out of the corner of his eye. 

"Roman, you're the prince." 

"I got that title through magic, which is illegal. Not to mention selling away the man I love to his former abuser." 

"Roman," Patton stressed, voice serious. Roman looked up. "You are the prince now. You have people counting on you." 

"Like Virgil counted on me?" Roman asked, knowing he was being petty, knowing he was only digging the hole further underneath him. 

Patton shut his book. "You don't lose some and give up, Roman. And you don't have one bad thing happen and forget about the rest of your duties. What about your people? What about your brother?" 

Roman breathed out slowly, rubbing at the bridge of his nose. "What do you want me to do? I can't be everywhere at once." 

"Just go check in with them, Roman. Let them know you haven't been kidnapped or something." 

"I'll never get out of that castle alone again. I'll always have a guard, and how am I supposed to investigate magic with a guard? How am I supposed to go back to the witch's forest?" Roman shook his head. "I can't go back. Not yet." 

"Why?" Patton asked. Roman, brow furrowed, looked up at him. 

"What? I just said why." 

"No. Really, why?" Patton asked, voice filled with such genuine curiosity, understanding, patience. Gods, why did Patton have to be so… good? 

Roman focused on the shelves behind Patton. He closed the book in front of him, standing up.

"I have to save Virgil," Roman said. He was worried for him. He couldn't live with himself if he didn't get Virgil out of there. But, as for being prince…

"I can't be prince if this is how it happened." 

With that, Roman turned away, slinking along the aisles until he was out of sight. 

Book still in hand, Roman figured he might as well find somewhere else to read. As he walked the library, however, it became exceedingly obvious to him that there was only one place he wanted to go. 

When he approached the front desk, he imagined it was any sort of normal day. Virgil would shout from the back, saying he'd be right out to help the patron. Then he'd stop in his rush as soon as he saw Roman, shifting his weight to one leg and going "Oh, it's you," while trying his best not to look too happy about it. 

Or Roman imagined it was the day Virgil was ducked behind the desk, and as soon as he heard Roman's voice, hit it in his surprise. Roman had been so concerned at the time, but had laughed it off at Virgil’s embarrassment. 

None of that happened this time. The library was so quiet. Much much too quiet. Libraries were supposed to be quiet, he supposed, but there was something very wrong about this. 

Roman leaned on the counter like he normally did, then slid to the opening, ducking behind the desk. It felt weird being on this side. He sat down in the chair, opened up the book, but his eyes were on the papers and pens strewn about in semi-organized fashion.  

This was Virgil's work space. Was this an intrusion? Should Roman leave?

Roman sat forward, placing the book down next to a stack of new stamp cards–all clean and new.  There was a mug of black pens, a couple purple ones scattered about. Roman picked one up, remembering the purple in Virgil's magical cloak. It was still tucked away in Patton's guest room, safe and sound. 

That was the color of Virgil's magic too. Roman wondered if it was his favorite color. It sure seemed to be. Could he control the color of his magic? Were the patches purple because of the magic or because they had been purple to begin with? 

When Roman went to put down the pen, he noticed something else in purple. Just a scrawled out word, but one Roman recognized, one too unique to be coincidence. 

It was tucked between a stack of papers, but it was easy to pull out. At the top, all it said was 'Dee.'

Below was a list with various vague remarks. Each was punctuated with copious amounts of question marks. 

In fact, the only one not emphasized with a decent portion of question marks was at the bottom. 

Lo's book. 

Roman blinked at it, words processing. One, two, three–it clicked.

He shot to his feet, rounded the desk and took off into the library again–back the way he’d come. Roman had to tell Patton-

Because he knew where they had to go next. 

[iicewitch]

☀️ cult of dionysus

a playlist for my friend caz link to playlist: here tracklist and favorite lyrics below

1. only as good as my god - everything everything And on the steps of my church There, I'm chasing down a red girl with my hooves upon a- Ooh - Wild Ooh - Child If they crawl out of the mud Wash them away in a flood I'm only as good as my god Burnt hair and more money 2. disciples - captain murphy Don't you want devoted followers? Who leave their families for you Give their money to you Give their bodies to you Give up their lives for you Consider you God, and will kill for you Don't you want to become a cult leader? Since the death of God there has been a vacancy open You can fill that void, here is how 3. dionysus - bts Just get drunk like Dionysus Drink in one hand, Thyrsus on the other Art splashing inside this clear crystal cup Art is alcohol too, if you can drink it, you'll get drunk fool I'm now in front of the door to the world The cheers I hear when I get up on stage Can’t you see my stacked broken thyrsus At last I’m reborn 4. good hand - turbowolf And I say No pain, no gain That's the mantra I'm repeating No sun, no rain That's the mantra I'm repeating No pain, no gain, no sun, no No pain, no gain, no sun, no rain 5. addicted to love - robert palmer Your lights are on, but you're not home Your will is not your own You're heart sweats and teeth grind Another kiss and you'll be mine 6. cult of dionysus - the orion experience Or start a secret society for the wild and free Our ideology is "You can do what you want Too much is never enough" We are the Life, we are the light We are the envy of the Gods above 7. hitting on all sevens - lyndon smith Make of me a subject caste Pressed and kept beneath thy glass Every heart thy sent in heaven Always hitting on all sevens One by one as ordered Flank to flank and facing forward Hanging by the word In chapter, verse and sentence heard 8. touch tone telephone - lemon demon Don't hang up yet, I'm not done I'm an expert, I'm the one The one who was right all along Better to be laughed at than wrong I'm an expert in my field UFOlogy, yes, it's all real Ancient aliens, it's all true I'm an expert just like you 9. sundial - lemon demon Don't mind me, I've just got some problems to work out I'm only passing through or maybe just right out Somehow something set my sundial backwards tilted and upside-down Now the shadow hand is pointing time right out of town I don't remember what it is that I just said to you I've got Anubis on my back and something in my shoe 10. mother’s talk - tears for fears It's not that you're not good enough It's just that we can make you better Given that you pay the price We can keep you young and tender Following in the footsteps of a funeral pyre You were paid not to listen now your house is on fire 11. light up the night - the protomen There is a city that this darkness can't hide. There are the embers of a fire that's gone out, But I can still feel the heat on my skin. This mess we're in, well you and I, Maybe you and I, We can light up the night. 12. pure morning - placebo A friend in need's a friend indeed, A friend who'll tease is better, Our thoughts compressed, Which makes us blessed, And makes for stormy weather, 13. aspiring fires - mother mother Baby, so you think you know crazy I think you know what you know, But what you know you don't know for sure A little advice for aspiring fires You'll get put out if you don't get a little wild Try again, try again, it ain't right You don't got the due diligence to lose your mind You're not getting it right 14. oh ana - mother mother I'll play god I'll play god I'll play god I'll play god today Ante up and play that god a poker game Walk away with all our little God's spare change Playing this god it can't be good for— Ana's safety, Ana hear me ! 15. this devil’s workday - modest mouse So I ate the wedding cake 'til the whole damn thing was gone. And I'm gonna drown the ocean. Now ain't none o' that so wrong? I could buy myself a reason. I could sell myself a job. I could hang myself on treason. Oh I am my own damn god. Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha 16. kiss me son of god - they might be giants I look like Jesus, so they say But Mr. Jesus is very far away Now you're the only one here who can tell me if it's true That you love me and I love me And a world screams, "Kiss me, Son of God" Yes a world screams, "Kiss me, Son of God" 17. personal jesus - depeche mode Take second best Put me to the test Things on your chest You need to confess I will deliver You know I'm a forgiver 18. charlie’s inferno - that handsome devil Catch you later, I'm off to see the man upstairs They all look like ants from here Stars and crystal chandeliers Excuse me, sir! There must be someone you've confused me for If I could see someone who knew me or someone in uniform I go to church on sunday, truly, usually more! Screaming at the angels while they pushed him through the door! 19. old 45s - chromeo Don't wanna settle Or didn't you get the memo You only get a date if you're walking in stilettos This is enough to drive you mad If you think romance is dead and gone Find an old jukebox full of 45's Pop a nickel in it and it all comes back 20. down at the midnight rectory - ted neeley Down, down, down at the midnight rectory! With jiggle juice frisking under the marquee! The peacocks are strutting behind velvet ropes, Sipping away on their heavenly dope. Gimme two alleluia's and an amen! 21. elevate - dj khalil Can't stop me, can't break me (can't break) What don't kill me, gon' make me (gon' make) Shoot for the stars, no safety (no safety) And now I see clear in HD 'Cause I win, over and over again Battlin' evil, I'm hopin' to win Fightin' my demons, I'm nice for a reason Enticed with the bleedin', I'm showin' my sins 22. come along - cosmo sheldrake We'll dance and sing 'til sundown And feast with abandon We'll sleep when the morning comes And we'll rise by the sound of the birdsongs We'll be here when the world slows down And the sunbeams fade away Keeping time by a pendulum As the fabric starts to fray 23. just one yesterday - fall out boy I thought of angels Choking on their halos Get them drunk on rose water See how dirty I can get them Pulling out their fragile teeth And clip their tiny wings If heaven's grief brings hell's rain Then I'd trade all my tomorrows for just one yesterday 24. church - fall out boy And if death is the last appointment Then we're all just sitting in the waiting room I am just a human trying to avoid my certain doom If you were church, yeah I'd get on my knees Confess my love, I'd know where to be My sanctuary, you're holy to me 25. beast dance - kurage p Cast aside your humanity, before you have to grovel on the ground, being at the bottom of society. You want to be loved? In that case, come on. ”Roar roar roar roar roar roar” Inside the cage, ‘kay? 26. black and white - MASA Pour the gospel echoing through the world into your glass. Black&White! Practice your faith through shots and prayers. Open the bottle. Black&White! 27. sister’s mercy - hitoshizuku-p Jesus!! Pray and pray Believer, if you demand for salvation Oh Yeah!! Then pay up more and more for this Bright Red, now! Cheers!! Pour and pour When you’ve filled your stomach with this bright Red, Aa! All your wishes will come true 28. inferno pt. 2 - the buttress The depth of my breadth is unmet I'm becoming unraveled on the road less traveled I know Jesus wept But I abhor the Lord Fell on my sword Forever slept 29. let’s just live - casey lee williams Let's just live Just one day Let's forget about our problems Let's fall in love with life And just be free The sun will never fade The night won't steal our day Let's dance and laugh and love And let's just live 30. ignite - casey lee williams Fool, you shouldn't stare into these eyes of fire You're goin' to regret this little fight You don't wanna mess with me, I'm something higher You'll watch yourself suffer You'll watch me ignite 31. god’s gonna cut you down - johnny cash Well you may throw your rock and hide your hand Workin' in the dark against your fellow man But as sure as God made black and white What's down in the dark will be brought to the light 32. royals - lorde Let me be your ruler (Ruler) You can call me queen bee And baby, I'll rule (I'll rule, I'll rule, I'll rule) Let me live that fantasy 33. you should see me in a crown - billie eilish Count my cards, watch them fall Blood on a marble wall I'm gonna run this nothing town Watch me make 'em bow One by one by, one One by one by You should see me in a crown 34. rev 22:20 - puscifer Pray til I go blind (Pray) Pray cause no one ever survives Prayin' to stay in her arms just to die longer Satyrs and saints, devils and heathens and lies 35. this must be the place - talking heads Home, is where I want to be But I guess I'm already there I come home, she lifted up her wings I guess that this must be the place I'm just an animal looking for a home and Share the same space for a minute or two And you love me till my heart stops Love me till I'm dead 36. razzle dazzle -  richard gere Give 'em the old razzle dazzle Razzle Dazzle 'em Give 'em an act with lots of flash in it And the reaction will be passionate Give 'em the old hocus pocus Bead and feather 'em How can they see with sequins in their eyes? 37. you’ll be back - jonathan groff You say our love is draining and you can't go on You'll be the one complaining when I am gone And no, don't change the subject 'Cause you're my favorite subject My sweet, submissive subject My loyal, royal subject Forever and ever and ever and ever and ever 38. no light, no light - florence and the machine No light, no light in your bright blue eyes I never knew daylight could be so violent A revelation in the light of day You can't choose what stays and what fades away 'Cause it's so easy, To say it to a crowd But it's so hard, my love, To say it to you out loud 39. shiny happy people - r.e.m Meet me in the crowd, people, people Throw your love around, love me, love me Take it into town, happy, happy Put it in the ground where the flowers grow Gold and silver shine Shiny happy people holding hands Shiny happy people holding hands Shiny happy people laughing 40. a good song never dies - saint motel There was a moment, a hole opened in the sky A chance to join that pantheon For all the times they never heard your battle cry Now be an angel, sing along 'Cause a good song never dies It just reminds you of where you were The first time it made you cry The first time you felt alive 41. king of the clouds - panic at the disco Some only live to die, I'm alive to fly higher Than angels in outfields inside of my mind I'm ascendin' these ladders, I'm climbin', say goodbye This old world, this old world I don't trust anything Or anyone, below the sun I don't feel anything At all 42. battle for the sun - placebo I, I, I will battle for the sun, sun, sun, sun And I, I, I, I am the bones you couldn't break Break, break, break, break, break, break, break 43. walk like an egyptian - the bangles All the school kids so sick of books They like the punk and the metal band When the buzzer rings (oh whey oh) They're walking like an Egyptian All the school kids so sick of books They like the punk and the metal band When the buzzer rings (oh whey oh) They're walking like an Egyptian 44. credens justitiam - yuriko kaida and eri itoh Free, they are With no malice they sing quietly And they told me that my song was louder/lighter Their song Releases the day of all malice I want to be like them And my mind (their minds are) Free 45. 99.9 - mob choir The protagonist of this stage is me Cryin' my life, cryin' my psyche Cryin' my heart in such commonplaces Is this my ideal? Is this my mind? Ahh, I’m looking for the answer ! 46. cruel angels thesis - yoko takahasi But someday you will notice On those shoulders of yours There are strong wings To guide you to the far future. If there is any meaning In the fate that pulled us together, Then I am, yes, the Bible That teaches you of freedom. A cruel angel's thesis And then sorrow comes forth 47. peace and love on the planet earth - zach callison I guess we're already here I guess we already know We've all got something to fear We've all got nowhere to go I think you're all insane! But I guess I am too Is there anything that's worth more? Is there anything that's worth more? Is there anything that's worth more Than peace and love on the planet Earth? 48. now we can see - the thermals We were born in the desert We were reared in a cave We conquered in the sun but we lived in the shade We were born on an island we grew out of the sand Never saw another creature never knew another man 49. love today - mika I said Everybody's gonna love today Gonna love today, gonna love today I said Everybody's gonna love today Gonna love today Anyway you want to, anyway you've got to Love, love me, love, love me, love, love 50. where is my mind? - the pixies With your feet on the air and your head on the ground Try this trick and spin it, yeah Your head will collapse If there's nothing in it And you'll ask yourself .. Where is my mind? Where is my mind?

[johannstutt413]

(requested by anonymous)

♪Midnight...You come and pick me up, no headlights~

“What, like in a car?” Midnight strolled into the Doctor’s office. “Good morning, Doctor.”

She smiled. “Good morning to you, too. How was last night?”

“Party rocked, and I learned first-hand that Blue Poison is definitely non-toxic off the battlefield. That girl needs someone bad, Doctor, so I think that’ll be my next project...Didn’t see you there, though.”

“Yeah, I didn’t make it.” She shrugged. “Some stuff came up last-minute here. You’re not too busy right now, are ya?”

He shook his head. “There’s always time for you, Doctor.”

“Even after all your matchmaking?”

“You’re still on the market, after all,” Midnight smiled. “I want everyone here to be happy, and even if I can’t make that happen somehow - impossible as that may be - it’s pretty easy to see who can with enough effort.”

The Doctor beckoned him closer. “Well, since ya’ve got the time for me, I’ve got something you can do for me.”

“At your service, Doctor,” he bowed before walking behind the desk.

“They say you’re God’s gift to women, right?” She clicked her monitor off. “Or at least, you say that, right?”

Midnight laughed. “You’ve never seen me at work if you can’t say for certain. Must be all the work you do cooped up here.”

“Midnight, I’m not asking ya to boast; I wantcha to prove it.”

“In the middle of the day?” He made no effort to stop laughing. “Doctor, I might take you up on that, but since I became infected, I don’t offer those services unless-”

The Doctor stood from her chair, unzipped her jacket, and tossed it into her chair. “You see the scar?”

“...What leaves a scar like that?” He’d mellowed somewhat in the face of...well, her face.

“Claws, apparently. Not important right now.” She walked around her desk the opposite direction, making almost a full circle to stand in front of him. “What’s important is that, if we’re both infected, there shouldn’t be an issue, right?”

Midnight thought about it for a moment. “I guess not, but-”

“Good.” The Doctor slammed her hand into the wall next to him, and despite being notably taller than her, he felt the power in it, and his heart began to race.

“H-hey, come on, I agreed, didn’t I?” He frowned. “Since when did you lift weights, anyway.”

She grinned. “Always have. Well, come on then, lover-boy - show me whatcha got.”

“...And so the gloves come off.”

Some time later, after some convincing by Midnight to continue things where they were less likely to break the electronics the Doctor needed to do her job, she was reclined in his bed, satisfied for the moment. “That was certainly a blessing, Midnight. Maybe I will start saying that...now that you’re all mine.”

“Can we talk about this later?” He was currently drinking his third bottle of water after what had been the performance of a lifetime. “I’m too drained to think right now.”

“Is that normal?”

He shook his head. “Never worked so hard in my life.”

“Oh?” She chuckled. “Was I really that hard to handle?”

“What? No, it’s not that, it’s...I’m just...”

The Doctor patted the Midnight-shaped void next to her. “Every conquering hero deserves a rest.”

“I’m not tired.” As he said that, walking back towards the bed, he stumbled a little. “O-kay, maybe a little.”

“Come on, tiger.” Midnight rolled into place, and she laid herself on top of him, basking in his warmth. “And now, we call it a day.”

He rested a hand on her waist, smiling subconsciously. “All in a day’s work.”

“Heh. Just you wait until this evening.”

“Wait, we’re...we’re doing this again?” Midnight looked down at her head against his chest. “Doctor, I- I mean, I’ve done some miracles in my time, but-”

She laughed. “Oh, don’t you worry about a thing. It’s time someone made you as happy as you just made me.”

“...That’s the first time someone’s said something like that to me.” He pressed her closer to him, determining that he’d found the one who could do just that.

“Oh, by the way.” Her finger swirled in a circle over the center of his chest. “Next time there’s a party, make sure I don’t stay in the office and miss it. Can’t leave people wondering about who you’re with now.”

Midnight smiled. “Of course, dear...Actually, there’s supposed to be one tonight. One of the guys in logistics wants to meet Blue.”

“Good for her. When’s it starting?”

“Um...fifteen minutes ago.”

She sat up. “Seriously?”

“Yeah.” He pulled her back down. “We can go to the next one.”

“What about your ‘projects?’”

Midnight kissed her forehead. “Just let me enjoy this, Doctor...at least a little longer.”

[inuykago]

lady friends?

inuyasha pride month 2020 ::

day 2 - lesbian + day 10 - kagome

thinkin of kagome and sango together makes my heart flutter. please accept this one shot I wrote for pride month ヽ(^◇^*)/

inspired by dailyau prompt:

I thought I just didn’t like relationships but turns out I’m actually super gay AU 

for reference! kagome inspo. sango inspo.

{kagsan. modern college au. 3,050 words. ff.net / ao3.}

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I hate college.

The classes are dragging, professors don’t care about study guides or reviews (do they want me to fail?), and, to top it all off, I’m alone.

Not that I can’t be by myself, but there’s friend groups here, friend groups there, a couple right next to me, and all of them look at me like, “Poor freshman, why doesn’t she have anybody?”

Well, everybody, I do have people! There’s Ayumi, Eri, and Yuka … but, I chose a different college than them…

Yeah, they all stuck together… B-But we still talk every day in our “Gal Pals 💕” group chat. Well, they do understand each other more than I do… since I’m out here by myself… but it’s fine.

I’m fine.

“Ms. Higurashi!” I snapped out of my thoughts, releasing my pen from my bite. Uh oh, did he notice I wasn’t paying attention?

“Y-Yes professor?”

The man crossed his arms as he gripped the smartboard marker, “Since it looks like you’re thinking so hard-” I really wasn’t “-can you name me some baroque-style paintings?”

“Of course,” I had to act confident. “Well, there’s the one painted by…” Shit, did we even learn a baroque painter? “Uh…”

Riiiinnnnggg!

“Hmm, saved by the bell,” he said.  

Thank God.

I rushed to close my pink laptop and carelessly dropped it into my yellow bookbag. I refused to give my professor a chance to pull me aside after class because (1) I know I’m not a bad student (so please don’t talk to me like I’m one) and (2) I may have a heart attack if he tries to say otherwise.

As I got up, something knocked me in the head.

“?????” is basically what I said to myself as I bent down to pick up the crumbled piece of paper. “Are we in middle school?” I rolled my eyes and straightened it out.

PARTY AT INUYASHA’S DORM-

“Oi!” a guy shouted as he and another ran up beside me. “S-Sorry, that wasn’t…. Uh…. meant for you.”

Of course it wasn’t.

“No worries,” I smiled, handing back the middle-school note. Honestly, me? Party? Yeah right.

“Say, this invitation doesn’t have to go to waste,” said the guy from behind. His short ponytail, bangs, and gold earrings distracted me for a second. “Hmm…,” he looked at me from head to toe. “Well, you’re just as pretty as the girl we were trying to give it to,” he gave me a smirk that made me uncomfortable. “See you there,” he threw his arm around me and squeezed me.

Should I elbow or kick him?

Well, he’s gone already. Perv.

Finally getting out of that classroom, I minded my business walking through the crowded hallway. I guess let me take another look at this oh-so wonderful invitation:

PARTY AT INUYASHA’S DORM

10 P.M., BRONISLAW HALL

PLEASE BRING LADY FRIENDS 😉

Yeah, I was right. He’s probably a perv.

The next day…

“How is it already 7 p.m.?” I rubbed my eyes, waking up from a long-needed nap.

Those two tests today really killed me, I guess. I’m just not cut out for history nor business marketing.

I sat up from my bed and looked at the empty other side of the room. My roommate never moved in. I don’t know if I should be happy or feel even more lonely??

“Ah well,” I shrugged.

I could see the sharpie-written note “PARTY AT INUYASHA’S” on my cluttered desk. “PLEASE BRING LADY FRIENDS” was ringing in my ear for whatever reason.

“Should I even go?” I asked myself. Well, when in doubt, turn to the Girls.

[ Groupchat: Gal Pals 💕 ]:

Ladies!!! I need help 😩

Ayumi 💛

Anything for my kags!!

Eri 💓

Spill!!

Yuka 💜

👀👀

Sooo I was kind of (???) invited

to this party on campus. Was told to bring lady friends.

Can any of my lady friends plsssss join me??

Eri 💓

Any cute boys?

Ayumi 💛

^^^^^^

Yuka 💜  

^^^^^^^^^^^^

Ehhhhhh, i don’t know. Probably??

Yuka 💜

I wish you told us sooner kags :/ … we’re going

to a party tonight too

Aahhh, no worries! It cant be helped.

Have fun gals, pls be safe 🥺 and

someone please keep an eye on eri…

you know how she is drunk 🙄

Ayumi 💛

You got it mom

Eri 💓

*rolling eyes gif*

😘😘

Well, there’s my answer to that, I guess.

(THE LAST FOUR HOURS BEFORE THE PARTY:1

7:37 P.M.

-- Kagome binging Maid Sama on Netflix, wrapped in a blanket, eating popcorn --

Yeah… I’m not going.

8:37 P.M.

-- Kagome watching The Notebook, crying, on her couch --

I [sniffle] just want [sigh] love.

9:37 P.M.

-- Kagome lip syncing to “I’ll Kill You” by Summer Walker ft. Jhene Aiko, wearing her rose gold beats --

🎶 Dooon’t, have me lookin’ foolish, dooon’t, have me lookin’ stuupid 🎶

10:37 P.M.

-- Kagome, bored, scrolling on Instagram --

Eh. Whatever, I’ll go.

END:1 )

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ah, the smell of booze and desperate boys. So this is college life.

Inuyasha’s place was a four-man dorm. There had to be like 40 to 50 people here already, and I’ve never seen any of them before. Yay, Kagome.

The music was pounding and all I could see were guys on girls, girls on guys, and, the occasional, girl on girl action. I shoved my way through the sea of people, eventually getting some breathable room near the small table in the corner that had Hennessy, Tequila, and Bacardi Rum.

Well, if I’m choosing my poison, tequila and sprite it is.

“Keh, Tequila and sprite?” I turned around because who the hell was talking to me? “I like your taste.”

His fluff white, silver hair was one of the few things that stood out in the near-complete darkness. He sipped his (henny and coke?) drink and leaned on the table, eying me up and down. Is that all boys do?

"I’m Inuyasha,” he smirked, taking another sip and fixing his backwards red dad hat. “If you didn’t know that already.”

Why did I decide to come again?

“Thanks for the housewarming,” I mouthed sarcastically. “But the bathroom is calling my name so-” I nodded my head to the side and shuffled to anywhere but there. But before I could even move --

“Oi, you don’t wanna talk a bit? Get to know each other?” he put his hand on my wrist. Why do they keep thinking they can touch me?!

I ripped out of his light hold, “Sorry, not interested.”

“W-Why you--”

“Inuyasha!” great, reinforcements. “There you are, have you seen all these ladies?! I’m so h-” oh even better, it’s the Perv No. 1. “Ah! You came,” he nudged Perv No. 2. “I knew you wanted to see me again.”

“As if,” I rolled my eyes. “Now, unless you want me to urinate on your floor,” I raised my glass and gave a sarcastic smile. Jeez, I really wasn’t wrong about the desperate boys.

The two bozos stepped in my way again as if I wasn’t cornered already (think: lap dances to my right; twerking to my left; beer pong behind me). And this is why I prefer my books and Netflix.

“If you think I find this flattering,” I raised my brow, sipping my drink. “I don’t.”

“Feisty,” Inuyasha nodded his head and Perv No. 1 did that weird smile again.

Should I kick them? I should kick them.

Before I could Inuyasha began to lean in, “Yeah alright, woman, suuure you will.”

“LEAVE MY GIRLFRIEND ALONE, YOU DICKS”

Eh?

“Ah, shit, Sango,” Inuyasha awkwardly scratched his neck. “You got a girlfriend already? Jeez woman.”

Perv No. 1’s mouth practically dropped to the floor, “W-What??? This goddess has a girlfriend??” he hung his head in disappointment. God bless this “Sango” chick. “Inuyasha, why didn’t you tell me?? SHE was the one I was trying to invite but then--” he eyed me in disappoint “--well we got her.”

“Excuse me?” Men.

“I got it, sweetie,” she winked and rubbed my cheek. God, why is my heart pounding? “I see either of you talk to her again and I’m ripping lil’ tweedledee and tweedledum off of you, ‘kay?”

She held my hand. Is my palm sweaty? A-Am I doing this right??

Inuyasha rolled his eyes, snatched his drink, and dragged Perv No. 1 away, whose mouth was still on the ground, “Whatever. C’mon, Miroku, the night ain’t over yet.”

“T-Thanks for saving me,” wow, she’s kinda cute.

She smiled and squeezed my hand. I didn’t mind this at all… but why is that?

“Of course, us girls gotta look out for each other, right?”

I felt myself get warm, and frankly I wasn’t sure if it was the tequila or because I was blushing. For the first time ever, I didn’t know what to say. Like, I was afraid of saying something weird and creeping her out… why is that?

“I hate guys,” she tightened her thick ponytail. “They think they’re so big and tough.”

“R-Right?!” we both laughed, and I could feel myself getting giggly. Was it the alcohol? Yeah, Kagome, of course it is.

She made herself a drink: rum and coke. She took a sip and I found myself staring at her, jeez I have to say something before I creep her out--

“So, where’s your friends?”

I snapped out of my thoughts, “Oh, they couldn’t make it… Kinda chose to come here last minute.”

She shifted her weight onto one leg, whew I really like her outfit. “Came to a back-to-school college party by yourself?” she nodded in approval. “I was wrong, you do have guts,” she sipped her drink, her lip gloss staining the red cup. “I like that.”

Uh oh, there goes my heart again. Think, Kagome, say something, be cute. Be cute. “I’m Kagome by the way.” Really, that’s it?

“Sango,” she held out her cup and I met it with mine. We both laughed again.

When our giggles died down it looked like a light bulb turned on inside her head. “Let’s go have fun!” she threw down her drink and interlocked her hand with one of mine.

?!?!??!?!??!!?! is what I yelled in my head and, sweet Jesus, there goes my heart. I shouldn’t have watched The Notebook earlier.

Sango dragged me and I couldn’t stop the fuzzy feeling. We were inside of the makeshift dance floor -- how can anyone enjoy this body heat?! -- and she just started going.

“La Romana” by Bad Bunny made the house speakers -- and just about everyone, including Sango -- jump. Her body was moving to the beats as she shouted the lyrics into the air.

I was trying to let my body loose like her, but sheesh I couldn’t keep up!

🎶 PASAME LA HOOKAH, EH! 🎶

She chugged the rest of her drink and so did I. I think I need more liquid confidence.

Four drinks later…

“Are you having fun?!” Sango yelled in my ear, laying her hand on my back, trying to bring me closer. I may be a bit drunk at this point, but I know I can feel my heart pounding again.

“Yes!!” I giggled into her ear, moving my hips to the fast beat. I don’t even know what song is playing, but my body is going with it.

🎶 IF THEM BITCHES ‘ROUND YOU, BETTER BE BLOOOD

IF AIN’T ME OR YOUR MAMA, SHOULDN’T BE SHOWIN’ YOU LOVEE

PLEASE FORGIVE ME, I KNOOOW THAT I’M STINGY 🎶

“IS THIS?!-” my eyes widened in excitement, the song still in the background.

“SUMMER WALKER?!” Sango pushed her face near mine. If I wasn’t so excited about the song I’d probably be fainting right now.

“AND JHENE AIKO??” we exclaimed in unison.

We both immediately closed our eyes and put our hands to our chests, literally singing our hearts out to “I’ll Kill You,” aka my favorite song.

For the first time at the party, I felt like myself. My hopeless-romantic-who-couldn’t-sing-but-adores-r&b self. I don’t know if it’s the fifth cup of tequila and sprite, the Goddess Summer Walker, or Sango looking so dang attractive that’s making me feel bubbly, but I just… let loose.

🗣I BEEN WAITING SO LONG FOR A LOOOOVE LIKE THIS

I BEEN WAITING SO LONG FOR A LOOOOOVE LIKE THIS

“Ka-go-me!” Sango shouted as she smiled at me, nodding her head in approval.

I want to serenade her… Yes, Kagome, let’s serenade her.  

🗣FUCK THAT MY BABY YOU ALLL MINE

GREATEST OF ALL TIME

YOU BETTER TELL THEM HOES, “FALL IN LINE”

I DO NOT PLAY ABOUT MINE

My voice is as angelic as Jhene right now. My arms -- with my near-empty sixth drink -- are wrapped around Sango’s neck and she’s smiling so big; I don’t know how my arms ended up here, but I… don’t want to let go.

I should keep going. Yes, keep going.

🎶I WANT YOU FOR LIIIFFFEEEE

DOOONTT, HAVE ME LOOKIN’ FOOLISH

DOOOONTT, HAVE ME FEELIN’ STUPID

Sango ran her fingers through my hair and just kept on giggling. “Okay, Ms. Jhene, let’s get out of here.”

“W-What?!” I let go of my grip. “W-Why are we l-leaving?” my words felt like it wasn’t coming fast enough out of my mouth. “T-The party j-justed start-ted!” I went for a last sip but she grabbed it so fast from my hand.

“H-Hey!” I tried to snatch it back but she was too damn fast. She’s lucky she’s cute.

Sango put down the cup on the corner table. She moved a piece of hair out of my face, “You’re suuuuuper drunk.” She laughed at me, making me even more flustered.

“I-I am n-not!”

“Do you realize how slurred your words are right now?” They are not. “Come on,” she lightly grabbed my hand. “Time for bed, princess.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I don’t know how I ended up back in my dorm room, but I did. And I don’t remember even falling asleep, but I did.

I slowly opened my eyes and just felt the room spinning. Jeez, I’m such a lightweight.

I held my head as I rose up; it was still dark outside and my wall lights were still shining a bright pink. Water… I need water.

“Woah, woah!” Sango said as she rushed to the ride of my bed with a glass of water. She has to be heaven-sent.

“Wow, it’s like you read my mind,” I laughed, taking the cup from her hand. “Thank you.”

She smiled as she pulled out my desk chair beside the bed, “Of course.” But then she looked at me and started laughing.

“What’s so funny?!” I nervously asked. What did I do? I hope I wasn’t too drunk because then I start… singing…

“You don’t remember what happened an hour ago?” I looked at her blankly. “At Inuyasha’s?”

“Ehhh,” I put my finger to my chin, thinking rather hard. “You saved me from the two Pervs, didn’t you?”

She giggled with her eyes closed, revealing her pink eyeshadow. I love that.

“Let me refresh your memory,” I don’t like where this was going.

🗣FUCK THAT MY BABY YOU ALLL MINE

GREATEST OF ALL TIME

YOU BETTER TELL THEM HOES, “FALL IN LINE”

I DO NOT PLAY ABOUT MINE

“No…”

“Yes.”

“...N-No…”

“Yes!” she chuckled, holding her stomach while I covered my face.

“I-I’m soooo sorry!” Jesus, she definitely thinks I’m weird now. “When I’m drunk I think I sound like Jhene Aiko… she’s just too powerful...”

“Yeah, I see that,” she pretended to wipe tears from her eyes. “But oh please, don’t apologize. It was so cute.”

“C-Cute?!” I accidentally yelled out loud. I immediately covered my mouth.

“Yeah, you’re so adorable,” Sango smiled. “When I saw you at the party today, I knew I wanted to talk to you. So I just went up to you and then I saw douchebag Inuyasha and his little henchman… It was only natural for me to chase them away,” she shrugged.

She knows she got it. I like that.

“Thank God you stepped in. I was really about to kick those guys in the hoohas.”

“The hoohas?” She just kept on laughing. I loved seeing her smile, whew. “You’re so cute.”

We both continued giggling because, let’s face it, I have no idea what I’m doing, saying, or hell, what I’m feeling.

“So, no friends with you tonight,” I shook my head. “How about your boyfriend?”

I shyly smiled, “Nope, don’t have one of those either… Never did.”

“Really?” Sango’s eyebrow propped upwards. “Same here.”

“What? No way!” I tried calling her out.  

Sango giggled, “How can I when girls like you are so pretty?” Oh God, did my heart just stop working? “Ah, wait, that was weird,” she scratched her neck, chuckling nervously. “Now I feel like a Perv like Inuyasha and Miroku.”

“No,” I protested. “Not at all.”

Sango looked like she felt she crossed a line. She really didn’t. In fact, she helped me realize something.

“It looks like you’re sobering up now,” she smirked. “I’ll get out of your hair. Thanks for partying with me tonight,” she blew me a flirty-but-i’m-trying-to-not-be-an-obvious-flirt kiss as she got up.

“Wait!” I didn’t want her to go. “Can you actually… stay with me? I’m here by myself, and I really like being with you.”

Sango looked at me relieved, “Of course.”

I moved more towards the wall to motion her to lay next to me. She kept looking at me and I knew my cheeks were already red, so I tried to look away. Her weight slightly pressed the bed down, but we fit. Perfectly.

I began to think back to my past “relationships” with Hojo, Koga, and Bankotsu. None of them ever worked out for me because I hated it. I hated relationships. I hate cuddling, the affection, the over-protection. But now I know, it was because I wasn’t with the right person.

“Sango?” I turned my body towards her.

“Yes, princess?” she smiled sarcastically.

I giggled, I couldn’t let this opportunity fly by me. I’m going to go for it.

I leaned in 100% for the kiss. Her lips were so soft that I realized her lip gloss was already all gone. I felt her kiss me back and honestly? fireworks. I never felt like this before.

She smiled mid-smooch, “So you do have guts.”

[willow-salix]

Isolation update!

Day 69 of Isolation on Tracy Island.

Have you ever heard that saying, don't do a flat pack project with someone you love? Yep, well apparently the Tracy boys hadn't. Let me explain.

Virgil and I went out to gather the weekly supplies of essentials, including beard oil, gentle bear shampoo, moisturizer and other things they suddenly deemed essential now that they were hairy and to pick up any orders that had been delivered and were waiting for us.

As usual we made quick work of the essentials shopping, flying through the list as we flew through the aisles, in and out in under an hour, which just goes to show how fast you can get things done when you don’t have Grandma or Gordon with you.

We stopped off at the storage unit on the way home, and once again it was like a magical mystery as to just what might be in there this week. The packages that appeared in there depended on many things, how busy we had been, how bored we were, how much time we had on our hands, which shopping hole I’d fallen into, the reasons were many and varied.

This time we had a number of boxes addressed to Brains, seven weighted hula hoops (because yes, the boys had talked me into agreeing to teach them as well as Kayo) a few other boxes of things that had been ordered and two large, very heavy crates addressed to Gordon. Virgil had to strap on his exo-suit just to get them loaded into Two’s pod.

“What do you think he’s ordered?” I asked as we headed back home.

“It’s Gordon, it could literally be anything, I gave up guessing what he was up to when he was five.”

“That instills me with such confidence, thank you for that.”

“You expected me to lie?”

“No, I expected you to evade the truth for comfort purposes.”

“Next time, ask Scott.”

We left Gordon’s crates in the hanger and went to grab some lunch, and by grab lunch I mean I stole half of John’s sandwich and poured a cup of coffee, that would do, we may have snacked on Doritos on the way home.

“Gordo, you’ve got two crates down in the hanger,” Virgil told him as he took my coffee cup.

“Yesss!” Gordon ran off without another word.

“Is nothing safe in this house?” I asked, pouring another cup of coffee for myself.

“You just took my sandwich,” John pointed out.

“Yeah, but that’s different.”

“”How?”

“Because what’s mine is yours and yours is mine, it’s how life works.”

“I don’t think that counts with food.”

“Sure it does, also you have a package,” I slid it over. “Did you buy me something nice?”

“If a new GPU for the gaming computer I’m building for Alan is nice for you, then sure.”

I made a face. “No, it’s fine, he can have it.”

“Generous of you,” he replied, stealing my coffee.

***

Gordon hadn’t returned almost an hour later after we finished our leisurely lunch, so in our infinite wisdom, we decided to track him down and see if he needed any help. It turned out he needed way more than we had expected.

“Gordon, what the heck?” Virgil stared in disbelief, taking in the mass of parts that were spread all over the floor of the hanger. Gordon was sitting in the middle of them, looking like he’d lost the will to live.

“Virgil, thank God, you have to help me,” he begged.

“What do you even have here?” John asked, looking around in disbelief.

“It’s supposed to be a golf cart.”

“A golf cart?” I asked, not sure I’d actually heard him properly. The island had a lot of things but a golf course was not one of them. “Why would you need a golf cart?”

“Two.”

“Bless you.”

“No, two, as in I have two.”

“Two of them? What are you going to do with two golf carts?” I had to ask.

John, being the sensible one, had located the instructions still inside the crate and had been studying them.

“Correction, what are you going to do with two old golf carts from 2006?”

“That’s for me to know and you to find out. So, will you help me?”

We should never have said yes. That was our first mistake.

Two hours later, Alan, Scott and Brains had joined us and I wasn't talking to any of them because they were just ridiculous.

“How can we not figure out how to put this together?” Gordon groaned. “We have two engineers and an electronics wizard and the rest of us aren't dumb either, yet we still can’t get past this?”

“How long have they been doing this?” Kayo asked me. We were perched on the discarded crate and happily sipping OJ.

“Coming up to three hours now I think.”

“I bet we could do it quicker than them,” she whispered.

“Oh, undoubtedly. All they have done is argue. John is trying to follow the instructions but Brains is trying to improve them.”

She snorted.

“Virgil is trying to go through it methodically and lay out all the pieces, but Alan keeps picking them up and asking John what they are, making him look them up and then putting them back in the wrong place.”

“Typical.”

“And Scott and Gordon are arguing because Scott is trying to direct everyone and Gordon is insisting that it’s his golf cart and it should be his way.”

“I expected nothing less. So, how about it, should we show them how it’s done?”

“Damn straight.”

We dragged the frame out of the crate and pushed it out of the way and then retrieved everything else inside.

“What are you two doing with my golf cart?” Gordon asked.

“We’re putting it together for you,” Kayo answered.

“Yeah right,” he laughed.

“Do you not think we’re capable of putting together a little golf cart?” I asked, narrowing my eyes dangerously.

“I wouldn't answer that if I was you,” Scott advised. But as ever Gordon was in an argumentative mood.

“I wouldn't say incapable, but I think you’ll be there for the next week.”

“I bet we can get it done quicker than you idiots can,” Kayo challenged.

“You’re on,” Gordon stood up to shake both our hands.

It was one of those DIY golf cart kits so it should have been easy enough for the geniuses in this family but, like with most things when all five of them were involved, it had not gone quite to plan.

We located the instructions and sat down to read them and plan out how we were going to tackle it.

“Ground up I think is best,” I suggested.

“Makes sense,” she agreed.

“Set everything out so we know what we have and put it in sections?”

“Yep, that’ll work.”

We spent half an hour hauling everything out of the crate and laying it out.

“Are you girls done prettying up the place?” Gordon called over to us.

We didn't rise to the bait, they were still arguing over which was the front or the back of the seat.

We found the engine mount and lifted it into place, I helped a bit but honestly Kayo is as strong as an ox, she hides a lot of power in her slender frame and she could have probably lifted it on her own. We screwed it into place and then got to work putting together the wiring loom.

The wiring was actually pretty simple, the loom came as a mostly complete unit and all we had to do was make sure we left enough…

“That wire is too short! It doesn't reach. Who had that job?”

“Wiring is down to John!”

“Don’t blame me! I told you that you needed to actually measure it and not just do it by eye!”

“It was still your job!”

OK I take it back, apparently the wiring wasn't simple for everyone.

The rear suspension was a little harder, but between us we managed to figure it out, getting the spindles and lifting blocks to stay in their right places was a bit of a challenge, but we’re girls and we’re used to getting stubborn things to behave and stay where they are put and soon powered through.

We could hear muttering coming from the boys' side of the hanger, and we saw them peeking over at us a little more often than they had before.

“Go get us a drink and some snacks and see if they want anything,” Kayo suggested. I nodded and got up.

“Want a drink, Kay?”

“Sure, can you grab me one of those smoothie bottles?”

“Sure, no worries.” I wandered past the boys on my way out.

“Do you guys want anything from the kitchen?”

“No, we’re good,” Gordon insisted.

“Can you get me a smoothie too?” John asked.

“Sure, babe.”

“Why did you just do that?” Gordon hissed at John.

“Because I'm thirsty?”

“It’s a plot to spy on us and see what we're doing so they can copy us!”

I snorted. “Dude, we wouldnt be stupid enough to copy you guys.”

“Insults now?” Virgil laughed.

“Hey, if the blue pointy cap fits…” I escaped before they could yell at me any more.

I found Grandma in the kitchen, cremating a number of what I think were once chickens, I didn't look too closely.

“Where is everyone?”

“Hangers,” I answered and began to explain.

I came back with drinks and Grandma, who had wanted to join the winning team. I gave John his smoothie and left the rest a few bottles of water and went back to help Kayo with the axel, which she was trying to wrestle into place on her own. I’ll be honest, she was doing most of it herself, but we were having fun, we were chatting and laughing and ignoring the boys, which just annoyed them even more.

With the addition of Grandma for logistics we were steaming through.

With the help of a dolly and a discarded arm of a broken exo-suit we slid the engine into place and screwed it down. It was pretty simple, everything fitted in quite easily and with our more modern tools we had very little trouble.

With the engine fitted we got to work on the rear of the cart, checking the amount of tyre clearance we would need and making sure they spun freely and that the shock absorbers were situated correctly before we tightened everything down.

We could really see this thing coming together. The boys were still arguing like they were on Jerry Springer, yelling at each other, blaming each other for things they either had or hadn't done, and threatening to break various body parts.

“Right girls,” Grandma started one of her famous pep talks as we started to flag. It was late, we were all hungry and sleep was calling us. “You’re on the home stretch now. Get those breaks in, then it’s just the chassis. I’ll sort the wiring in the handle bars. Once that's done it's the finishing touches, seat, lights and horn. Then you can sleep.”

We heard the boys start to mutter under their breath, all huddled together like they were in the playoffs and only had thirty seconds left on the clock. Maybe Grandma should’ve lowered her voice...

“Look at theirs, how did they do that?”

“We’re never getting to bed tonight, are we?”

“Alan is already asleep.”

“Come on, we can’t give up now, guys, we got this.”

“Girls, we can do this. I believe in us,” Grandma encouraged drawing our attention back to her and we nodded, the last thing we’d ever want to do would be let her down.

Following her instructions we got on with the breaks, working together quite well. I didn’t know that much about machinery or anything really, but I can research my butt off and read instructions perfectly. Everyone should read the instructions, I honestly don't know why men seem to be so incapable of it.

Grandma was as good as her word, she had the wires poked through the handles and connected up before we had the chassis on. We fitted the handlebars and the chassis in place and tightened everything up.

We got the seat on while Grandma got the lights connected up and put the bulbs in. The horn was the last thing.

We put the battery on charge, tucked our baby into bed and called it a night.

John slumped his way into the kitchen with Virgil about four in the morning. We’d gone to bed around half two after throwing some pizzas in the oven and having ourselves a little past midnight feast, leaving a few for the boys. I’d gone to bed but couldn't sleep, having eaten late and gone past my tiredness barrier. Deciding that a hot chocolate sounded amazing I’d gotten up again.

The boys were almost dead on their feet. They had taken Alan to bed and tried to bully Scott and Gordon into moving but both had refused to quit, as had Brains, who was apparently over engineering everything and making things so much harder. I don't know how boys manage to make everything so difficult and complicate the simplest of things.

I took pity on them both and made them a hot drink too and warmed up some pizza, making sure they had eaten before I marched them to bed.

“How bad was it?” I asked John after we’d brushed our teeth.

“How bad do you think?”

“Parker trying to explain filling FAB 0’s gas tank to Alan, bad?”

“Times that by ten,” he flopped face first onto the bed and refused to move again.

I’ve still got no clue what Gordon wants with two vintage golf carts, but I guess we’ll find out soon. At least I know one will be properly put together.

[justanotherinterludeff]

16

I've been feelin’ like I'm crazy 'Cause I'm goin’ through your phone, look for somethin' wrong I can't find nothin' I must be trippin' tryna listen to my intuition Sayin' you're guilty So baby, just tell me

Gut Feeling x Ella Mai ft. H.E.R.

“Mm.” I hummed as I got comfortable in Mackai’s bed. The ride home was filled with nothing but laughs and jokes. The drinks he’d tossed back earlier had him feeling like a whole comedian. He made jokes about my head, and I had to humble him real quick, letting him know his was twice the size of mine. The nerve. 

His California King sized bed was such an upgrade from my full size in my room at Z and I’s apartment. My bed was everything, but the amount of space Kai had on his made me jealous. You could actually roll over a few times and not fall off the bed. It made it no better that his mom helped him decorate, the sheets were to die for. I had to remember to ask her what thread count they were.

“You enjoying yourself?” He chuckled. I opened one of my eyes to look over at him smirking from the en suite. “Definitely.” I laughed. I had kicked my sneakers and jean jacket off, but I was still clothed in the bralette and jeans I had picked out earlier. 

I shut my eyes again and heard him shuffling across the room. It was quiet for a second and I heard him rustling through his draws. Something hit my arm, and I opened both of my eyes to see one of his shirts. I smiled. 

“Babe, can you take these jeans off me please?” I whined. The pet name slipped off my lips so much easier these days. Kai was mine... just not officially. But, I was okay with that. For now. 

“Come here.” He mumbled. He got to the side of the bed I was on, and pulled me to him, using only my legs. I couldn’t stop laughing. “Why you put these shits on if you can’t take them off?” He asked. “I can take them off, I just wanted you to do it.” I let him know. 

He arched his brow as I lifted myself up so he could pull them down. Once they were off me, I smirked at him peaking at my lace panties. I played dumb as I watched him fold my jeans and set them aside. I sat up and pulled my bralette off. I sat bare chested, smirking at him. He licked his lips and returned the smirk. “You ain’t gonna put the shirt on?” He asked. I shook my head ‘no.’

Sexual frustration isn’t something people should go through! This shit could really have you out of your mind. I swear if I knew this is what... withdrawal felt like, I would have stayed a virgin, I swear. Of course as a virgin, I got horny. But knowing what I was missing, made it even worse.

Having Kai around was no better either. I wanted to jump his bones every time he licked his lips. Shit was so ironic, I was the one saying I didn’t just wanna be fucked by him, but here I was- silently hoping he would just touch me. Nothing went pass the intense kissing and occasional feel up. But that alone would set my ass on fire. 

“See something you like?” I teased. Instead of answering my question, he leaned down and kissed me. “Put the shirt on.” He mumbled on my lips after he pulled away. I looked him in his eyes, seeing he was serious. The scowl etched on my face made him chuckle. 

I climbed back to the top of the bed and pulled the shirt on. I laid back, arms crossed, and pout on my face. He pulled his shirt off and disappeared into his bathroom. When I heard the shower start, I groaned and rolled over onto his side of the bed. 

It sounded crazy, but the fact that he was respecting my wishes of us not rushing sex, just made me want to have sex with him even more. Like..? I swear this is why men think women are complicated.

I couldn’t believe this was where we were. Two whole months into dating Kai and not once had he tried anything. I mean, I didn’t want to rush either, but this couldn’t be real life. I had needs, and as a man, I knew he did to. And if he wasn’t having sex with me... he had to be getting it somewhere else. Right?

I sighed. I was too in my head about this. I was literally in here, talking to myself. Was this what lack of sex did to people? I needed to chill. I shook the thoughts out of my head. I grabbed the remote from the bedside table and turned the TV on. I switched to Netflix and found something to watched. 

I settled on the “She’s Gotta Have It” series. I was already in love with Mars. Halfway into the episode, his phone buzzed from the night stand. I looked at the time on the alarm clock, 1:04 am, and then back to the screen. It’s not your business, Nae. Instead of thinking too hard about it, I immersed myself in the series... until Kai decided to step out of the bathroom with just a towel wrapped around his bottom half. The water still visible on his tattooed arms, chest, and abs. 

He payed me no mind as he sauntered around the room. He dried himself off and dropped the towel. He pulled on a pair boxers and then some shorts. See? This was the shit that made me wanna fight him. “Can you take me home?” I asked in a firm voice. “You wanna go home?” He repeated like he didn’t just hear me clearly. “Yeah.” “Why?” “Because.” He kissed his teeth. 

“What’s the problem Naomi?” He swore he was so slick. “Kai, stop playing with me. I know what you’re doing.” “What am I doing?” He played dumb. I stared at him, watching the smile slowly take over his face. “... Okay.” I reached for my jeans and he started cracking up. 

“Aight, aight. Chill.” He laughed, pulling the jeans from my hands. I rolled my eyes at him while he got comfortable in the bed. He somewhat sat up against the headboard, and I couldn’t help myself but to cuddle up into him. He smelled so good, I couldn’t help but sigh. I laid my head against his torso, making sure to rub over his naked abs. 

“This what you in here watching?” He asked pulling me out of my trance. I glanced up at the television and noticed Nola and Mars having sex. Well shit, one of us deserves to have fun tonight. “He ain’t even stroking her shit right. You gotta make sure them thighs pushed all the way back. Touching the mattress type shit.” He grumbled before putting his interest back into his phone. 

My eyes closed at the thought. Having Mackai in between my leg...having him push them back into the mattress, while looking deep into my eyes. My body grew hot at the the fantasy. I unconsciously squeezed my thighs together and let out a breath. 

Once I opened my eyes, I could tell Kai was no longer interested in the show. He didn’t even bother to pretend he was either. He kept his head in his phone, but it didn’t bother me. I knew he had to be handling business. I looked up at him, seeing how focused he was. He was so fine, I thought as I admired his features.

I looked down at the Supreme boxers he wore underneath the basketball shorts. I could see his print through the shorts, and I bit my lip.  I accidentally, on purpose slid my hands over his shorts slowly. “Sorry.” I apologized quietly. I didn’t even bother to look up at him. I did it again, before I found myself gripping him through his shorts. Jesus. 

“Damn Kai.” I examined how big he was in my hand. He wasn’t even hard. Oh my God. “Nae, what the fuck?” He was cracking up. “What’s wrong with you?” He asked swatting my hand away from him. “So that’s what it is? That why these hoes can’t leave you alone?” He found my questions amusing, still cackling. 

I had seen Kai’s dick print time and time again. And of course, I was impressed. But it was different to a have that thing in my hand! The boy was blessed. The arguments and fights these girls would have over him back in the days all made sense now! It was as clear as day. 

“I’m shook.” I professed, sitting up and against the headboard. He was still laughing. “You a trip yo.” He shook his head. “Kaiiiii, I can’t believe you’ve been holding out on me!” I sighed. He continued to laugh. “I’m glad this is funny to you.” Another chuckle. 

I rolled my eyes. After his laughter died out, we sat in silence. Why was I not getting dicked down right now? Felt up? Something! I was literally yearning for this man’s touch. Is this what they meant by being careful of what you wish for? Because I was slowly, and surely regretting it. 

“You still fucking other girls Kai?” I asked. I was honestly afraid of the answer he was about to give. Not because I knew it would hurt my feelings, but because I knew I’d end up beating his ass in this room. The silence made me look over at him. 

Still immersed in his phone, I smacked my lips. “Hello? You don’t hear me talking to you?” He kissed his teeth. “Nah. Now go on with that bullshit.” He muttered. “How is it bullshit Kai? I just asked a simple question. Yes or no?” I was starting to get mad. Why couldn’t he just answer a simple question?

More silence. 

“Yes or no Kai?” “Nae, didn’t I just tell yo ass to go on with that bullshit?” “Kai, you really about to piss me off. Just answer the damn question!” I raised my voice. “You better calm yo little ass down.” He mumbled, not looking away from his phone. It sounded like more of a warning, if anything, but I wasn’t about to back down. 

“Or what Kai? Or what? You lied to me!” He chuckled bitterly, and shook his head. “Crazy ass girl dawg.” He muttered to himself. “Crazy? Imma show you crazy!” I stood up in the bed. I snatched the phone out his hand. “Which one of these bitches is texting you this late? You don’t even have the decency to hide the shit!” I yelled. 

I looked down at the iPhone screen to see a webpage for sports cars. I exited the safari to his messages, scanning my way from the top to the bottom. There were messages from unsaved numbers, but once I went to the thread they either were from months ago, the number had been blocked, or both.

I took my seat back in the bed. Social media was next.. Dozens on dozens of heart eye emojis flooded his comments and DMs. None of the recent ones were met with answers. I shut my eyes and sighed. Crazy ass girl, what are you doing? That’s all I could ask myself. 

“Here.” He said passing me another iPhone. When I didn’t take it from him, he dropped it on the bed. “111363 is the password for both of em. Go crazy.” He stated. He exited his room, and I just stood there, looking stupid. I groaned and sat on my knees. I locked the first phone before putting them both on the side table.

I pushed myself off the bed and made my way around the spacious three bedroom condo. Juju wasn’t here, she had been MIA all week. Claiming to have been busy, but I wasn’t gonna stress her. If she was busy she was busy. I found him in the living room, slumped on the couch, scrolling through the channels. 

“You ready to go?” He asked keeping his eyes on the screen. “To go?” I was confused. “Yeah, I’m taking you home.” Without giving me time to process, he shut the TV off and got up from the coach. I followed behind him as he headed back to his bedroom. “Mackai.” I called as he ignored me and disappeared into his closet. 

Once he emerced, he had pulled on a hoodie, socks, and slides. He then started to gather my things; my phone, sandals, bralette, and jeans. 

“Kai, you really kicking me out right now?” I was really at a loss for words right now. He didn’t respond. The look on his face read boredom. I snatched my jeans and slipped them on before grabbing my phone and shoes. I headed for the front door with him on my tail. I swung the door open and waited until he hit the locks of his Jaguar. 

I opened the passenger door and made it my business to slam that shit. Fuck him and this dumbass sports car. I heard him chuckle darkly before he slipped into his seat. He pulled out of his driveway and we rode in silence toward my apartment. I stayed my ass quiet, because honestly, I was too drained to argue. I knew I was wrong for accusing him, but kicking me out?

When we pulled into my complex, he didn’t even bother parking in the closet spot. Instead, he pulled up to the front of my building and put the car in park. “I don’t know what kind of niggas you was dealing with before me, and I don’t care what kind of nigga you thought I was before we got together. I told you, if we was gonna do this, I was gonna be all in. I cut all the bullshit I was doing before you said you’d give me a chance. I put time and effort into this.”

He continued, looking straight ahead. “And you still questioning my intentions. I haven’t done anything wrong, and I never plan to. But, if you feel like in the back of your mind, I would treat you in any way, shape or form anything less than you deserve, we should just dead this right now. I don’t wanna waste your time and I damn sure ain’t tryna waste mine.” 

“Kai, it’s-” “Nah, Naomi.” My first name? Not “Nae” or “baby?” He was pissed. “I don’t got time for this shit. I told you what it was, and you know how I am about my word. These past few months I’ve done my best to show you I was serious, and you here accusing me of some bullshit.” He finally chuckled. “I’m cool on this shit.” 

“Mackai, I didn’t mean to- Look. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have accused you-” “To be honest with you Naomi, I really don’t give a fuck about nothing you have to say to me right now.” He spat so calmly and coldly. 

I was stuck.

I honestly didn’t know what to say.. what to do. I had never seen Kai this mad in my life. I sat there looking at him with the stupid pout on my face. I could feel the tears stinging the back of my eyes, but I refused to cry in this car. I pulled my seat belt off and exited the car silently, making sure not to slam the door again. I walked up the steps, I was surprised when I didn’t hear him speed off. It wasn’t until I was inside and shutting the door behind me, I heard the Jaguar speed off. 

I kicked my shoes off at the door, and dragged myself to my room. I noticed Z’s TV was on, but honestly, I didn’t wanna be a bother. I waltzed into my room and shut the door. I shed my jeans and Kai’s shirt from my body and went to turn my shower on. I let the water warm up while I picked some clothes out to sleep in. Ironically, I settled on a pair of Kai’s boxers and a Ralph Lauren shirt he had left here. 

I connected my phone to my Beats Pill and let my Hurt Hoe playlist blast all through my room. The sounds of Monica and Mary J. Blige rang through my room as I showered. I was probably being dramatic, but right now I didn’t care. I let all the hot water pelt my body and take away all my stress. I sighed as I began thinking about tonight. 

There was no doubt in my mind that I was wrong. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. 

I cursed at myself silently for potentially ruining everything we started to build. This self-sabotaging shit was for the birds. I just hoped that Mackai would hear me out and give me an opportunity to plead my case and give me a second chance. 

After washing, I exited the shower and got dressed before laying down. I laid there staring at the ceiling as Jazmine Sullivan’s voice sounded through my room. I turned the music down and got more comfortable under my covers. It wasn’t before long that I felt my eyes get heavier and heavier. 

I wasn’t sure about how long I had been asleep, but I jolted out of my sleep because I heard my phone ringing. I shot up and looked over at the alarm clock to see 3:58 am. I felt around my night stand for my phone and was surprised to see Mackai’s name on my screen. 

I clicked accept, and before I could even greet him, his deep voice boomed from the other end. “Come open the door.” Again, he didn’t let me get a word in before he hung up. I rolled my eyes at his antics, but still obeyed his orders. 

I scurried to the front door and swung it open for him. He was dressed differently from earlier. He donned a black hoodie instead of the grey one he pulled on earlier, all black jeans, and the black Timberland boots I loved to see him in. The scent of the Dior cologne I bought him radiated from his frame and I could see the slugs in his mouth. 

Great. 

He stepped in without invitation and I shut the door. He made me lead the way to my room. I was surprised when I felt him get dangerously close behind me and wrap me in a bear hug from behind. His scent engulfed me all at once and I could only shut my eyes as we waddled toward my room together. 

Once we were inside, he hoisted me up quickly and I couldn’t help the screech that came from my lips. He shushed me and threw me on the bed. “I still got some sweats over here?” He asked as he kicked his boots off. I leaned over and pulled the bottom drawer open to fish them out for him. 

A sting to my ass came right after and I had to hold back the scream that wanted to escape me. I knew Z was home and it was late as hell. “That hurt!” I exclaimed as I threw the shorts at him. “My bad.” He chuckled sexily. I watched as he emptied his pockets and  rid himself of the jeans, hoodie, and watch before slipping on the sweatpants.

He got in the bed and made it his mission to pull me in close, and I swear my heart melted. “We gon talk about everything in the morning. Go back to sleep.” He said before planting a kiss on my shoulder. I didn’t even respond. I shut my eyes and let sleep consume me for the second time tonight. 

[purplegeorgina]

Drive safely

Building our future in New Zealand has not been all rainbows and butterflies. I'm out of my comfort zone and anxious about situations I can't control. I'm so focused on finding solutions that I forget to pray. I am inconsistent in praying before making decisions, and I only pray if I don't know what to do anymore. However, I know it doesn't work that way; it shows I don't trust God enough to let Him take the wheel. (daw makanta ka noh pag-basa? hehe nami man gid na nga song 🎶”Jesus, takes the wheel. Take it from my hands 'cause I can't do this on my own. I'm letting go so give me one more chance and save me from this road I'm on."🎵)

Brief backstory: Last Wednesday, March 16, 2022 around seven thirty in the morning when I was driving, my car and the dump truck collided. I am thankful that I am safe, as is the truck driver, and that there were no pedestrians at that time. It’s not my time pa gid siguro but that was a wake up call. It finally sank in hence my post. Despite my sins, I felt God's love for me.

I'm having deep realizations as I write this. I realize that the lessons I learn can be blessings. I better understand the saying, "At least you learned something." That said, indi lang ang blessing na may natun-an ako sa natabo or gakatabo sa life ko na indi ka aya-aya ang nabaton ko pero God loves me so much that he never failed to resolve my tribulation whenever I was anxious and unsettled (and I was too blind to see). The solution was handed to me on a plate. Tuod gid na ang kanta 🎵”count your many blessings name them one by one and it will surprise you what the Lord has done"🎶 and ang blessings ko indi na maisip mapa material o hind. Isa na da ang every day work in progress to have a healthy and strong relationship with God, myself, my family, my partner (H. Santos🤍💜), and my friends. ♥️

I'm sure that what's happening to me now is God telling me to forgive myself. The people who know me too well and love me despite my shortcomings ga hambal man permi not to be so hard on myself. Bal-an mo, reader, dutay lang nakabalo sini, na one of my ultimate goals in life since 200* has been to become a licensed and renowned Filipino Interior designer. My ambitious goal didn't happen sa target age na gusto ko and I hate myself as in HATE. Again, this happened because of my wrong decisions and overconfidence. God said He is arranging my plans and goals on His timeline, not mine. All I must do is pray without ceasing (1 Thes. 5:17–19), be faithful and kind, be a better person than yesterday, appreciate life's lessons, appreciate biskan gamay na bagay, padayon kayod kag indi maging inutil, inspire others (especially those in the same situation), and help in any way I can. And He will do the rest. His will be done.

I'm teary-eyed at the sheer relish of that feeling like I don't deserve the outpouring of blessings in all aspects of my life. But I guess I do. We all are. Thank you, Heavenly Father. I am forever grateful for a robust support system. It brings out the best in me. I am living proof, and I share my testimony that God works in our lives. When He does, it is perfect and fulfills our needs. 🙏🏼♥️

P.s. Two days after sa natabo, I got my new car. Blessed gid kay a good friend of mine (nga daw older sister ko na sya) knows a car merchant, so dasig ang process sa paghand- over sang salakyan. Blessed pagid kay another friend of mine kag ang bata sang landlord, gin kadtoan ako kay indi na drivable ang salakyan. Grateful ako kay Heavenly Father for sending people para buligan ako.

[faithambr]

Harvest of Friends Epilogue

(Author’s Note: This is the end of a beautiful prairie story. So sit back and enjoy reading this! Also, please do go and watch the TV episode. It’s so worth it!)

Prologue

Chapt 1

Chapt 2

Chapt 3

Chapt 4

Playlist 

FF.net Link

For the next few days Anna was spending her time either taking care of her husband or working out on the field.

“Anna,” her husband calls for her while she was preparing their supper one night, “are you alright in there?”

“Oh yes.” Anna answers back, just as she had arrived at his bedside with a plate of food. “Just for you to eat.”

“Anna,” he sighs while his wife was fixing up a spoonful of soup, “you didn’t have to make me supper.”

“Well I did,” his wife smiles, making him try to eat some food, “and I know that you would like some of my cooking, love.”

“Of course.”

“Now eat up Mister,” Anna smirks, making her husband chuckle, “before it gets cold.”

“Okay.” he mumbles as he takes in the food. “Mmm...delicious.”

“See,” Anna gave him a knowing glance, “I told you so.”

“I know.” her husband jokes through his pain.

“How are you feeling?” Anna gave him a loving glance.

“I’m fine.” he replies, making Anna smile a bit.

“Good.” Anna states, just as she rubbed the base of her neck.

“Anna,” her husband gives her a concerning look, “I told you not to be working out on the field.”

“And I told you that the field was in need of being attended to, Kristoff.” Anna answers.

“Anna,” Kristoff began, “the field would have to wait just a few more days.”

“And Kai used to tell us that farm work should be finished before the first summer heat.” Anna gently counters back. “Plus we need to have a good harvest in order for us to live here.”

“Well I guess then me trying to convince you,” he sighs in defeat as Anna got up from the side of their bed, “isn’t going to work then, huh?”

“Yep.” Anna winks at him, causing her husband to groan in frustration.

“But Anna,” he continues, “please be careful.”

“You know I will.” Anna answers, adding a kiss on his cheek. “Say, why don’t we talk about something else, for now?”

“Like what Anna?”

“Like,” she wonders aloud as she placed his dish on the table, “maybe about children?”

“Children?”

“Yes children.” she blushes a bright pink, making her husband smile a bit. “Well don’t you want children?”

“Of course Anna,” her husband sighs while Anna sat back down at his side, “I would love to have children.”

“Well how many would you like to have, love?” she asks.

“As many as the Good Lord would want to bless us, Anna.” her husband states, making her heart bleed with love.

“Oh Kristoff,” Anna smiles lovingly at him, “you’re amazing.”

“No you’re amazing Anna.” Kristoff smiles as he takes her hand into his, gently squeezing it.

“Oh you.” Anna says with her cheeks red with love.

“And to make this even better, love,” her husband gave her a quick peck on the lips, “I would love to have a little girl, that would look just like you.”

“And I would love to have a little boy that would have your big nose and cute blonde curls.” Anna beams, making her husband chuckle at her words. “Hmm.... How about Jacob for a boy and Mary for a girl?”

“That sounds wonderful, feistypants.” her husband smirks, making her own heart flutter at his words.

“So...um...” Anna blushes beet red, not knowing what else to say.

“Yes?”

“Can we start trying?” she blurts out. “I mean, we both do want to have a family. Plus Elsa has been sending letters to me, asking about her future nieces and nephews. Oh and Gerda is dying to be a grandmother....”

Her husband’s lips had crushed against hers, causing her to stop mid sentence, “Anna, the sooner I feel better about the fields, the sooner we can try, love.”

“Oh Kristoff,” Anna cries with tears of joy as she wrapped her slender arms around him, “I love you!”

“And I love you, too.” he whispers in her ear.

“Say it’s getting late Kristoff,” Anna sighs as she held onto her husband, “we better get some rest.”

“Alright.” he nods in agreement just as Anna had gotten up from her side and went to get her nightgown on.

It took Anna a few minutes to get herself ready for bed.

“Well I wonder what we should be reading about today, Kristoff?” Anna answers just as she pulled out their marriage Bible.

“Well I don’t know Anna.” her husband shrugs his shoulders. “Maybe one of your favorites?”

“Hmm...” Anna sighs as she settles herself into bed with their marriage Bible in her hands. “I know what to read.”

“Well then go ahead and read it to me, dear.” her husband smiles warmly at her.

“Okay,” Anna began as she opened up their Bible, “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”

“Ah 1 John 3:16.” her husband recalls from memory. “You used to say that to me, when we were courting.”

“And I’ll continue on reading that verse to you for the rest of our lives.” Anna reassures him with a smile. 

“I know.” her husband sighs, just before he had fallen asleep. “Joshua 1:9″

“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed, for the Lord thy God is with thee whither so ever thou goest.” Anna had read with some tears pricking at her eyes. “Pa would tell us that verse when I was a little girl.”

“I know,” her husband murmurs as she settles herself into his side, “and I’ll keep on saying that to you til the end of time.”

“Good night Kristoff.”

“Good night Anna.”

The next day

“Good morning Kristoff.” Anna whispers to her love, just as the sun’s rays were pouring into their home. “It’s time to get up, love.”

“Well good morning to you too, Anna.” her love whispers, making her feel right at home.

“I better get some breakfast going for ya, Kristoff.” Anna states just as she got up from their bed and went on changing into some clothes.

“Okay.” her husband breathes while Anna was adjusting her blue skirt. “Hot cakes and berries do sound good to eat, feistypants.”

“Well,” Anna answers as she puts on her white shirt and apron, “I’ll have to see what we have left over in our flour sack, Kristoff.”

“Then berries would have to do for me, Anna.” her husband sighs, feeling helpless in their bed.

“Okay,” Anna gives him a reassuring kiss on the lips, “breakfast will be ready in a few minutes.”

“Alright.”

While Anna was busy getting ready for the day, Kristoff was simply admiring her. He knew that his wife was capable of handling any situation, yet he wasn’t so sure if she would be able to handle the one that they were currently in. Just please God, help us get through this. he silently prayed, just as his wife had reappeared with a bowl of berries just for him to eat. 

“Now you stay here Kristoff,” his wife gave him some specific instructions as she hands over the bowl, “while I go out and take care of the farm.”

“But Anna.”

“No buts.” she counters back as she walked on out the door. “Now remember what Dr. Baker said?”

“That I should stay in bed til my ribs are healed.” he chants back, making Anna smile with such fondness in her eyes.

“That’s right.” Anna states, just before she had walked on out the door.

For the majority of her day, Anna had spent all of her time out in the farm. From cleaning out the stalls in the barn to harrowing their field with their pair of oxen.

At least the field will be taken care of by the time he’s all healed up. she thought as she guided the oxen slowly with the harrow across their field.

Her heart was pounding at the thought of working hard on their field, yet she wasn’t so sure if the hard work would soon pay off. “Maybe com harvest time,” she whispers while she was tugging at the oxen’s rope, “we could start our family.”

She smiled at the thought of her and her husband having their firstborn in their home. Her crying out for joy as the town doctor hands over their newborn child. Him smiling fondly at her, telling her that they have a beautiful child. Even the town doctor would smiling at her, telling “Congratulations you have a...”

“Oh Mrs. Bjorgman!” a voice had interrupted her thoughts, causing Anna to glance over her shoulder at a wagon coming up from behind.

“Yes.” she answers, feeling a bit uneasy as an older gentleman had stopped his wagon right in front of her. “Can I help you?”

“Ah yes.” the older gentleman had stated just as him and his partner had gotten out of the wagon. “Is your husband around?”

“No,” she answers, “he’s resting in bed. I’m sure that Mr. Edwards may have told you that my husband had broken three ribs a few days ago.”

“I know,” the older gentleman sighs in defeat, “and I’m sorry that both you and your husband are dealing with this.”

“Thank you,” Anna breathes in a bit as she adjusted her white bonnet, “and you are?”

“Oh forgive me for my rudeness, ma’am.” the gentleman states at Anna. “My name is is Mr. Weselton and your husband has been working for me.”

“Oh.” Anna mouths. “My husband told me about his job with you.”

“And did he tell you that if he didn’t complete his work, there could be an issue?” Mr. Weselton adds, making Anna feel a bit uncomfortable.

“Yes.”

“Well then,” Mr. Weselton began as he adjusts his suspenders of his pants, “as much as I understand that your husband was hurt, I’m afraid that I’m going to take the oxen for now.”

“But you can’t,” Anna cries out as Mr. Weselton takes the rope away from her, “he’ll get better. Just give us a few more days, please.”

“As much as I would want to,” Mr. Weselton gave her a serious look, “but I can’t.”

“You can Mr. Weselton.”

“Look,” Mr. Weselton snaps at Anna, “your husband had made a business deal with me and now he didn’t fulfill his end of the deal. So now the oxen are mine.”

Anna remained silent at his harsh words. Her heart was aching at the thought of losing their oxen, as Mr. Weselton’s partner was guiding them in the back of the wagon. She couldn’t believe that the oxen were taken away from their future. “Oh God, please help us get through this.” she cries out as she walked on down to their home, leaving the harrow out in the field. “Just please let everything be okay.”

She cried at the though of telling her husband that the oxen were taken away by Mr. Weselton. Maybe i shouldn’t tell him. she thought as she strolled on towards their home. Then again, he needs to know. He has to know.

“Kristoff,” she calls out with dried up tears on her red cheeks, “are you there?”

“Yes.” her husband answers as she entered into their home. “You’re home early.”

“Yes I am.” she replies while she was walking on past her husband in bed.

“Anna,” her husband says with concern as he watched her dab at her cheeks with her apron, “are you alright?”

“No,” she answers as she sat down on their bed, “Mr. Weselton came by today.”

“Oh?”

“And he took our oxen away.” she sniffles, making her husband groan in frustration.

“What did he say Anna?” Kristoff breathes in his frustration as he sat up, facing her.

“He said,” she began with a raspy breath, “that since you didn’t complete your end of the bargain, he would take away the oxen.”

“I should’ve never signed that piece of paper,” Kristoff groans in frustration as he got on out of bed.

“Kristoff,” his wife gave him a concerning look, “where are you going?”

“To town.” he answers as he quickly puts on his clothes. “I’m going to talk to Mr. Weselton.”

“But Kristoff, you can’t.” his wife pleads with him while he was walking towards their door.

“Anna,” he looks at her with such pain in his own eyes, “if i don’t get our oxen back, then we may lose everything.”

Anna had simply remained still at his words, as he walked on out the door.

“Just please be careful.”

A mile down the road

I can’t believe that he took them from us. Kristoff had thought as he walked on down the road with pains in his chest. His heart was aching at the thought of losing everything, as he drew near the outskirts of town. He knew that signing those papers would cost him dearly, yet he didn’t expect Mr. Weselton to actually take their oxen away. Maybe i should try to reason with him. he thought as he walked right into town. He knew that he would be in a lot of pain; however he didn’t care. All he cared about was getting their oxen back.

“Mr. Weselton,” he finally huffs out in pain as he stood right in front of the tackle and feed store, “I need to speak to you.”

“Oh Bjorgman,” Mr. Weselton states while he was standing at the entrance of his office, “you don’t look so well. Shouldn’t you be resting in bed?”

“I want to see those papers.” Kristoff counters back at the old gentleman.

“Oh those papers.” Mr. Weselton cocks an eyebrow at Kristoff. “Well now you did see them the day you’ve signed it. Now I know that you’re hurting, so I took it upon myself to visit your farm and take care of the oxen for ya.”

“You pretty much took them from me.” Kristoff grits his teeth through the pain.

“Well it was all legal.” Mr. Weselton was reasoning with the young man as he walked on down the steps. “Besides the agreement was that I would have the oxen by Sunday, if you don’t complete your end of the bargain.”

“Well then I’ve got a few more hours to finish my end of the bargain.” Kristoff states.

“Well then,” Mr. Weselton looked stunned at the young man, “you better get back to work.”

“Yes sir.” Kristoff replies back as he slowly walked on towards the new shed with stacks of grain already in place.

Well I better get started on this. Kristoff thought as he painfully grabs a sack of grain and then stacked it on top of a few others inside the shed. His ribs were straining in pain as he continued on stacking the bags of grain. His whole body was breaking out in sweat, each time he would move the large bags to make room for more. At least I’ll get the oxen back. he thought after he placed one bag on top of another.

As he continued on stacking the bags of grain, his ribs were firing up with such pain. He knew that the pain wouldn’t go away, however he didn’t expect himself to fall over and pass out.

No! Anna had thought as she watched her husband pass out in the shed. No this can’t be happening!

She knew that her husband was in pain as she watched him stack the grain sacks in the shed. Her heart was aching at the thought of her husband trying to work hard in order to save their future. She knew that he would do anything, despite him being in pain. Maybe I should go and help him. Anna thought as she quickly ran to his side. He needs help.

“Kristoff.” she faintly cries his name, causing him to wake up from his passing out. “Oh Kristoff.”

“Anna.” he croaks in pain, making her cry even more. “Go home. I’ll be there shortly.”

“No.” she whispers. “I’m not leaving you.”

“Anna.” was all he could say, just before she went straight to do his work.

Well if my husband can’t finish this, then I can. she thought as she went on stacking the bags of grain in the shed. As she continued on finishing up her husband’s work, she couldn’t help but notice how her husband was nursing his pain. Her heart was aching at the thought of seeing her husband being helpless and in pain. At least he’s resting. she thought while she was dragging a bag on over to another stack of grain. She knew that stacking the grain was going to be hard, yet she didn’t expect her small petite arms to ache with such pain.

“Here let me get that for ya.” a scruffy, yet both gentle and familiar voice had entered into her heart.

“Mr. Edwards?” Anna looked stunned at the older gentleman right in front of her.

“Well you go on and take care of your husband.” Mr. Edwards states as he gently takes the bag of grain from her hands. “We’ll take care of it from here.”

“Oh.” Anna mouths as she looked at the small crowd of men behind Mr. Edwards. “Oh my.”

“You stay with him,” another man, named Mr. Carter, had stated while all of the other men were forming a line for the bags of grain, “and we’ll take care of this for you.”

“Thank you.” Anna smiles through her tears as she sat on the ground next to her love.

“You’re welcome.” Mr. Edwards nods in appreciation while everyone else was stacking up the grain.

“Now what on Earth are you doing here, Mr. Edwards?” Mr. Weselton had called out from his office.

“Just helping out a friend here.” Mr. Edwards answers as he stacked another bag of grain.

“For what?”

“For him being hurt,” Mr. Edwards calls out as he pointed at the young couple, “and his wife needing a roof over their heads.”

“Well I told him that if he didn’t complete his job,” Mr. Weselton warned Mr. Edwards, “his oxen would be mine.”

“Now that ain’t right for ya to take away his oxen.” Mr. Edwards had stated in defense for his young friend. “Especially since he’s got a wife to support.”

“Now hold on,” Mr. Weselton continued as he walked on down the steps, “I saw his wife coming from a mile away. So I knew that he would be needing the help.”

“But you weren’t gonna help him huh?” Mr. Edwards had pressured him with that question, making Mr. Weselton feel sheepishly.

“Well of course I was.” Mr. Weselton coughs under pressure as he looked around at the other men. “I mean he was in need of some help.” His eyes darted towards the young couple. “And the way she came to his aide, made me realize that something had to be done. So I...”

“Oh quit your yappin!” Mr. Edwards brushes him off. “If you really wanted to help, you would’ve been stacking the grain along with his wife.”

“Oh you.” Mr. Weselton growls in frustration at Mr. Edwards just before he went straight back into his office.

“Well all I can say to you two,” Mr. Edwards states as he knelt down in front of Anna and Kristoff, “is that you’ve got nothing to worry about.”

“What do you mean Mr. Edwards?” Anna sighs in relief while she was holding on to her husband’s hand for comfort.

“Let’s just say that you two have got a bright future here.” Mr. Edwards smiles, making the young couple smile even more.

“Thank you, Mr. Edwards.” Kristoff croaks out in pain.

“You’re welcome young man.” Mr. Edwards grins. “Now you just stay here and rest.”

While the crowd of men were busy stacking up the bags of grain, Anna and Kristoff were silently thanking them all. “Thank you God.” Anna prays over their dear friends as they watched them come together, just to help out. “Thank you for everything.”

“Anna,” her husband whispers, “thank you for helping me out. I love you.”

“And I love you, too.” Anna kisses him on the forehead and then sweetly on the lips.

“Now I’m guessing that i should be resting for a few more days, huh?” her husband groans in pain while Anna was gently squeezing his hand in appreciation.

“Oh yes.” Anna gave her love a knowing smirk, just the group of men were finishing up with the grain stacking.

They continued on staying in their own little world, until Mr. Edwards had walked on over.

“Say you ready to head home, Mr. and Mrs. Bjorgman?” Mr. Edwards asks the young couple.

“Well yes of course.” Anna answers, making Mr. Edwards smile even more.

“Well then,” Mr. Edwards began as he helped Anna with getting Kristoff on to his feet, “you best get going. Oh and don’t worry, Dr. Baker has already gotten your oxen all yoked up and ready to go.”

“Wait what?” Anna looked surprised along with her husband in his own shock.

“Oh yes.” Dr. Baker smiles at the young couple as he handed over the oxen to both Anna and Kristoff. “Here you go. The oxen are ready to go.”

“Thank  you.” Kristoff smiles while he was holding his wife close to his heart.

“You’re welcome.” Dr. Baker smiles just before the young couple had left with their oxen.

“Say before you go,” Mr. Edwards began as him and a few other men had gathered around, “I’ve gotta a question for ya.”

“Sure.” Kristoff answers.

“Our church hosts an annual plowing contest,” Reverend Alden spoke in favor for the group of men, “and we were wondering if we could use your land for our contest?”

“Well I...” Kristoff was trying his best to smile through his tears of joy. “I don’t know what to say.”

“Let’s just say that we’re here to help out a friend in need.” Mr. Edwards adds, making Anna’s eyes brim with tears.

“Oh thank you Mr. Edwards.” Anna cries as she hugs their dear old friend. “Thank you!”

“You’re welcome, Anna.” Mr. Edwards smiles warmly at her just before and her husband went on their way home.

“Thank you,” Kristoff gave his new friend a comforting look, “and I hope to see you all on Sunday.”

“Same to you.” Dr. Baker nods just as the young couple was heading out of town with their oxen. “Now don’t forget to take it slow.”

“I know.” Kristoff answers as he walked with Anna at his side and the oxen right behind.

“Plus the oxen like it that way.” Anna adds, making her husband chuckle at her words.

“You are such a wonderful woman, Anna.” Kristoff smiles fondly down at his wife.

“And you’re such a wonderful man, Kristoff.” his wife replies back just as they continued to their home.

“You know what I’m looking forward to Anna?”

“What?”

“Harvesting our first crop here.” he answers, making Anna smile even more.

“Oh.” she gave him a quick peck on the cheek. However what they don’t know is that they’ve harvested something else: a harvest of friends.

[pamphletstoinspire]

An Explanation of the Gospel Reading For Trinity Sunday - (Latin Calendar) - By An Early Father of The Church - Story 2 - First Sunday After Pentecost

Sermon on Proof of the Doctrines of the Church

***

Consecration to The Holy Trinity

***

Proof of the Doctrines of the Church

The Church Fathers

In this section we shall show that the doctrine of the Blessed Trinity has from the earliest times been taught by the Catholic Church and professed by her members. As none deny this for any period subsequent to the Arian and Macedonian controversies, it will be sufficient if we here consider the faith of the first four centuries only. An argument of very great weight is provided in the liturgical forms of the Church. The highest probative force must necessarily attach to these, since they express not the private opinion of a single individual, but the public belief of the whole body of the faithful. Nor can it be objected that the notions of Christians on the subject were vague and confused, and that their liturgical forms reflect this frame of mind. On such a point vagueness was impossible. Any Christian might be called on to seal with his blood his belief that there is but One God. The answer of Saint Maximus (c. A.D. 250) to the command of the proconsul that he should sacrifice to the gods, "I offer no sacrifice save to the One True God," is typical of many such replies in the Acts of the martyrs. It is out of the question to suppose that men who were prepared to give their lives on behalf of this fundamental truth were in point of fact in so great con-fusion in regard to it that they were unaware whether their creed was monotheistic, ditheistic, or tritheistic. Moreover, we know that their instruction regarding the doctrines of their religion was solid. The writers of that age bear witness that even the unlettered were thoroughly familiar with the truths of faith (cf. Justin, First Apology 60; Irenaeus, Against Heresies III.4.2).

Baptismal formulas

We may notice first the baptismal formula which all acknowledge to be primitive. It has already been shown that the words as prescribed by Christ (Matthew 28:19) clearly express the Godhead of the Three Persons as well as their distinction, but another consideration may here be added. Baptism, with its formal renunciation of Satan and his works, was understood to be the rejection of the idolatry of paganism and the solemn consecration of the baptized to the one true God (Tertullian, De Spectaculis 4; Justin, First Apology 4). The act of consecration was the invocation over them of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The supposition that they regarded the Second and Third Persons as created beings, and were in fact consecrating themselves to the service of creatures, is manifestly absurd. St. Hippolytus has expressed the faith of the Church in the clearest terms: "He who descends into this laver of regeneration with faith forsakes the Evil One and engages himself to Christ, renounces the enemy and confesses that Christ is God . . . he returns from the font a son of God and a coheir of Christ. To Whom with the all holy, the good and life giving Spirit be glory now and always, forever and ever. Amen" (Sermon on Theophany 10).

The Doxologies

The witness of the doxologies is no less striking. The form now universal, "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost," so clearly expresses the Trinitarian dogma that the Arians found it necessary to deny that it had been in use previous to the time of Flavian of Antioch (Philostorgius, "Hist. eccl.", III, xiii). It is true that up to the period of the Arian controversy another form, "Glory to the Father, through the Son, in the Holy Spirit," had been more common (cf. Clement's Epistle to the Corinthians 58-59; Justin, First Apology 67). This latter form is indeed perfectly consistent with Trinitarian belief: it, however, expresses not the co-equality of the Three Persons, but their operation in regard to man. We live in the Spirit, and through Him we are made partakers in Christ (Galatians 5:25; Romans 8:9); and it is through Christ, as His members, that we are worthy to offer praise to God (Hebrews 13:15). But there are many passages in the ante-Nicene Fathers which show that the form, "Glory be to the Father and to the Son, and to [with] the Holy Spirit," was also in use.

In the narrative of St. Polycarp's martyrdom we read: "With Whom to Thee and the Holy Spirit be glory now and for the ages to come" (Martyrdom of Polycarp 14; cf. 22).

Clement of Alexandria bids men "give thanks and praise to the only Father and Son, to the Son and Father with the Holy Spirit" (The Pedagogue III.12).

St. Hippolytus closes his work against Noetus with the words: "To Him be glory and power with the Father and the Holy Spirit in Holy Church now and always for ever and ever. Amen" (Against Noetus 18).

Denis of Alexandria uses almost the same words: "To God the Father and to His Son Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit be honour and glory forever and ever, Amen" (in St. Basil, On the Holy Spirit 29.72). St. Basil further tells us that it was an immemorial custom among Christians when they lit the evening lamp to give thanks to God with prayer: Ainoumen Patera kai Gion kai Hagion Pneuma Theou ("We praise the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit of God").

***

Consecration to the Holy Trinity

O everlasting and Triune God, I consecrate myself wholly to you today. Let all my days offer you ceaseless praise, My hands move to the rhythm of your impulses, My feet be swift in your service, My voice sing constantly of you, My lips proclaim your message, My eyes perceive you everywhere, And my ears be attuned to your inspirations.

May my intellect be filled with your wisdom, My will be moved by your beauty, My heart be enraptured with your love, And my soul be flooded with your grace. Grant that every action of mine be done For your greater glory And the advancement of my salvation. Amen.

[justjen523]

A Child With the Gods

Series Finale

(Series Rating E 18+)

WARNING: The following chapter contains highly emotional content. 

     I would just like to take a moment to thank all of you who have liked, commented and re-blogged my series and it’s sequel. While it’s true I had no intention of writing a sequel to begin with I am glad so many of you requested it so passionately that I could not say no. 

     I know some of you may have found the sequel disappointing as it was not the smut that it’s predecessor was. However, I wanted to write this piece as it should have been. Forbidden fruit always comes with a steep price. No one is ever exempt not even the gods themselves. Love has many faces and between the two series I feel like I accomplished to demonstrate two of the more powerful sides. Enjoy!

    The chaos that ensued shortly after my announcement was nothing short of entertaining. There was something oddly amusing about watching eleven men, rather, eleven gods scramble about in an disorganized panic. I couldn’t keep from smiling as the scene around me unfolded. It would seem both human and god alike stress themselves over the arrival of a new life. In my case, two.

    The contractions were still far enough part that it gave me time to adequately rest between them. I had been moved to my bedroom within the mansion. They were unable to do anything for my pain or discomfort with their powers due to the fact that my children were divine beings and I was merely mortal. Anything powerful enough to help would most likely damage my body in the process. At first the idea of a natural birth had me so panicked I nearly fainted, but my mind was quickly put at ease when everyone promised to do everything and anything to make this as painless as possible.

    In the end it was decided that the two Fathers were allowed to stay in the room as well as Leon. Hue kept an eye on my progress as I slowly dilated informing him of where I was in the birthing process. When the time came he would be the one delivering my babies. Ichthys and Zyglavis were nothing short of wonderful as they both remained at my side tending to my every need or desire.

    “I-I wonder if...AGH....they will both...ERK...be boys.” Every time I had a contraction the three of us would talk about something to help try and take my mind off the pain. Each of them held one of my hands allowing me to grip and squeeze as hard as I needed to until it passed.

    “The sex of the child does not matter to me. I will be overjoyed no matter which is placed in my arms.” Zyglavis’ warm smile helped ease the passing pain though I could tell our dynamic, though platonic now, still seemed to rub Ichthys the wrong way. It didn’t go unnoticed to me how he would visibly stiffen or recoil when certain things were said. The fact that he cared that much that something like that bothered him filled my heart with even more love for him.

    Hue performed his hourly inspection of my progress. When he looked at me he smiled happily, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

    “It is almost time to begin pushing. You are nearly there. I would estimate perhaps another hour until we can begin.” While all of us were of course excited, we also knew the real work was about to start. No one was more acutely aware of that fact than me. The pain of the contractions and movements had become so intense it made it difficult to breathe while they were happening. Not to mention my lower back was killing me even though I was propped up and supported by the softest pillows I had ever felt in my life courtesy of Aigonorous.

    “Are you scared? Because if you are don’t be kay? Zig and I won’t let anything bad happen I promise.” Though he was sincere I could see through his facade. He, like the rest of us was overwhelmingly anxious. No one really knew what to expect seeing as something like this had never been documented before.

    The last hour dragged by so slowly I couldn’t help laughing when even cool, collected Leon ordered Teorus who was waiting in the other room to speed it up. The contractions were so close together now I barely had enough time to catch my breath between each one. If the way the two Father’s seemed to suddenly be collecting sweat along their brow was any indicator of the tension in the room, I think it’d be safe to say we all needed a drink about now.

    When Hue finally entered the room this time he closed the door behind him. Leon leaned against the wall in the corner, his arms crossed quietly observing and for once remaining speechless. Ichthys’ hands were slightly trembling and Zyglavis’ eyes were wide as the reality of what was happening seemed to finally hit home. Hue smiled at me affectionately reassuring me that he would safely bring my children into this world. I nodded in return now feeling a new sense of resolve.

    “First I want you to take a deep breath.” Hue instructs me and as I comply he turns his gaze to both Father’s.

    “You too.” His eyes narrow affectionately at his panic stricken comrades standing painfully straight at my sides. Once we were all a little more centered he began.

    “When your next big contraction begins I want you to push this time. Continue to push until I tell you to stop alright?” Nodding in agreement it doesn’t take long before it happens again.

    “Alright ready? Deep breath and push.” I push with all my might squeezing the two hands holding mine as hard as I can.

    “Good, now rest.” A moment passes before another contraction arrives.

    “Okay and again. Push.” As I push a strange faint tingling sensation registers in the back of my mind.

    “Good, keep pushing.” I clench my eyes closed trying hard to focus on anything other than the immense pain.

    “And rest. You’re doing great just don’t forget to breathe.”

    “Good thing you reminded me Hue, I totally would have forgotten all about that.” I tease as the tension recedes a moment. Everyone laughs happy to see me in high spirits despite my current predicament.

    After about fifteen minutes of pushing and resting, that tingling sensation from before is back bringing with it an uncomfortable heat. It almost feels like my insides are burning.

    Nearly an hour has passed since I began pushing and one of my little one’s heads is crowning. The pain is so intense I can’t even speak or open my eyes as I do my best to push with everything I have. Tears and sweat stream down my face, the burning sensation so white hot I feel like I am going to pass out. I remember Hue’s words and take a deep breath.

    “Almost there! One more push should do it for this little one.” Relieved by those amazing sounding words I gather the will to give one more huge push. A mere moment later the sound of a baby crying fills the room and I feel as though a weight has lifted from my shoulders. The contractions subside a moment allowing me to catch my breath and meet my first child.

    “Congratulations, a beautiful baby girl. It goes without saying just looking at her that she is most obviously Zyglavis’.” When I am handed this incredibly tiny precious little life tears stream from my eyes. A tuft of bluish purple hair on her head and long lashes just like Zyglavis.

    “She is so beautiful. Just like her Daddy.” I cast an enormously proud smile at the man beside me trying so impossibly hard to remain stoic. When I offer him his daughter the real Zyglavis with a tender and beautiful heart finally reveals himself. Breaking down nearly into sobs he takes her in his arms so naturally it all seems so much like a dream. Her perfect tiny hand I had seen many times against my womb is now wrapped around Zyglavis’ finger and is so content she simply coo’s happily. As I watch him press the gentlest kiss to her tiny forehead I feel blessed knowing no matter what the future may hold for this divine little being, she will indeed be surrounded by love. 

     The next contraction comes out of nowhere and Hue nods letting me know it’s time to push once more. This time however is nothing like before. An unbearable sharp pain tares through me as though my body is being ripped apart. Unable to do anything but scream at the top of my lungs I am aware that everything around me fades in and out in a blur. My head is starting to spin and even though I want to I know I can’t speak for some reason. I catch fragments of sentences from what sound like frantic desperation and chaos. Something has gone terribly wrong and that strange heat coursing through me is so hot I feel myself losing consciousness. 

     “Tch. Givn’ up already? Don’t be stupid, you’re stronger than that.” I hear Scorpio’s voice but as I try and make out my surroundings all I see are blurry images of the other gods surrounding me. I want to talk to him but I can’t find my voice.

     “____! Come on stay with me!” I hear Ichthys calling me. I blink my eyes several times trying my hardest to focus on his face. He is holding my hand so tightly in both of his, tears dripping from his chin.

     “I-Ich-thysss..” 

     “Hue! Do something we’re losing her!”

     “Something has ruptured and she is bleeding internally at a dangerous rate. However her child is still in the birthing canal and without her pushing we are running out of time. The longer this takes the higher the risk of losing the child.”

     “Can’t you perform what the humans call a C-Section?”

     “I’m afraid not, not without killing her.”

     “So what the fuck do we do Hue?! She’s gonna die!” The room goes silent though I can practically hear their thoughts through the internal panic.

     “H-Huuee.” I can barely talk it takes so much just to form words. I feel my vision fading.

     “P-Please.....save my...baby...”

     “No ___! You can’t leave me! You’re going to be okay, I..I’m going to heal you so please hang in there!” The moment I see the light transfer from his hands and a faint warmth pooling where he touches I try to pull away.

     “S-SStop. Pleeease. S-Save himmm n-n-not meee. I....I l-love youu.” Though I can no longer feel much of anything as the numbness and cold slowly flood my body I do my best to touch his face because I know, this will be the last time I ever can. Doing my absolute best to give him a smile, I close my eyes and sigh peacefully. I am no longer in any pain and everything suddenly feels very far away. 

     I am standing in white nothingness looking around unsure of where to go when I hear a voice behind me.

     “I owe you an apology.” When I spin around Scorpio is standing there dressed in a plain white suit, not his usual punishments uniform. There’s a strange sort of peace flowing through him as he offers me a sincere and gentle smile.

     “Apology? What for?”

     “Dummy.” He smiles after flicking my forehead.

     “Owe! H-Hey!”

     “Tch. Yappy and loud as ever even in....” He abruptly stops speaking before looking deep into my eyes with sorrow.

     “I never meant it. Any of it. You...you cared more about my feelings when you learned the truth then your own.” Seeing the deep regret in his beautiful eyes I reach out and rest a hand upon his cheek and hold it there before continuing. 

     “I forgive you. Truly, I just want you to be happy.”

     “Well, that ain’t an issue, at least, not anymore. My happiness now will be watch’n over Zig for the rest of his life.”

     “So... it’s true isn’t it? We’re....I’m...you’re...”

     “Hey woman, look at it this way, your sacrifice won’t be in vain. Both you’re kids are alive and well.”

     “M-My son! He lived?!” Scorpio just nods, eyes crinkling at the corners with affection. 

     “Well, what now for us?” I’m surprised when he throws his arm around my shoulder and smiles sincerely.

     “Dunno kid, but, looks like we’re gonna find out together.” I smile at him warmly happy to know that we can talk again like we used to. As we walk out into seemingly nothingness I ask him the question I am most curious about.

     “I don’t mean to pry but, Scorpio how and why did you die?!”

     “Tch. Long ass story...”

     “Oh? Lucky for you we have eternity to talk about it.”

     “Heh! Even in death woman you still are bust’n my balls.”

(Rest of story continues from Huedhaut’s pov.)

     “NOOOOO!!!! ____! ______! PLEASE wake up! Please....d-don’t leave me.” Ichthys holds her lifeless body in his arms as I pull the child at last from her womb. The tiny baby appears to be just fine albeit extremely exhausted. Wrapping the child in a blanket it takes everything I have not to break down. 

     ‘I did what you asked of me, your child is safe. Yet now what would you have me do? Do you even realize how many lives were destroyed when you left this world?’ 

     As Ichthys continues to sob uncontrollably with her wrapped safely in his arms I look at Leon and Zyglavis who both look as distraught as I feel. Though I can tell both would be sobbing uncontrollably behind closed doors right now I also know that with the days to come the pair of them more than anyone most remain the anchor for each department. 

     Leon moves in gently and compassionately removing Ichthys from the sadness he holds in his arms. Instead he places the precious life I had been holding at last in his Father’s arms. Ichthys only sobs harder as he cradles his son against his chest. I know the pain he is feeling and I wish I could somehow take it from him. He truly has been handed a cruel fate time and time again throughout his life. I just hope that his son will be the motivation he needs to go on living. 

     Zyglavis eventually leads Ichthys out of the room, both holding their children leaving me with Leon who stands quietly watching over her peaceful lifeless body.

     “Forgive me Huedhaut. I know who this woman was and I know who she was to you. Yet in the end even knowing all that I still fell for her. For that, I...truly am sorry. I suppose we all ended up in love with her in the end.” Leon never speaks this way and though his words sting with knowledge of the truth I rest a hand on his shoulder without needing to say a word.

     For quite some time we stand alone together in silence staring down at the woman we love. Neither of us seem to be able to hold back the quiet tears. Eventually after quite a while I realize the others are all outside probably waiting to pay their respects. I turn and walk across the room, my hand pausing on the handle as Leon speaks in a tone I have never heard before. The melancholy surrounding his words only makes everything feel even more tragic. 

     “Such a precious and fragile little goldfish.” He runs the back of his hand down her cheek. His voice softens further still almost to a whisper.

     “You who were brave and pure enough to carry children from the gods, who loved everything and everyone around you more than yourself. You, who gave your life to bring two new souls into this world shall not die. At least not like this, and not today.”

     “Leon....what are you..” The entire room fills with so much divine light I can barely keep my eyes open. When Leon turns to look in my direction I can’t help but gasp as he pulls the stars from both of his eyes.

     “Leon no! You can’t! The heavens can’t handle a loss this great! Without you the Heaven’s and the Earth will fall! Please! Please reconsider!” It’s like he can’t even hear me and I watch on in horror as he combines them from both sides. It transforms into a ball of divine light and he shoves into her still and silent chest. Leon looks completely different as the last of his energy begins to burn away. In a moment he will cease to exist any longer and his light will forever be extinguished. 

     “L-Leon...why? I-”

     “Pffft don’t get all emotional on me, I finally did something that for me was worth dying for. You of all people should understand.” A tear runs down my cheek as I watch him fading away. Though she is still unconscious the steady rise and fall of her chest is undeniable. My eyes quickly turn back to him just in time for him to say one last thing to me.

     “Before she awakens, erase all of her memories of me Hue. This innocent, selfless, pure loving goldfish has seen and felt far too much loss and pain. I don’t ever want her to feel guilty for any of this. Please, promise me this. It is my last wish. Will you grant it?” I can’t even remember how to speak in this most tragic moment as I watch the death of not only an extremely important and powerful god, but also, a very dear friend. I nod and he smiles one last time looking relieved before his light burns out and he forever disappears into nothingness. All I can do is close my eyes as the tears fall.

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

     “Errr....H-Hue?” After blinking my eyes several times I nearly drop the precious package I’m currently holding in my arms. Trembling, my breath hitches as I stare into the eyes of a woman I would know anywhere. She’s looking at me with such concern but I can’t help but pull her body to my chest hugging her so tightly I nearly knock the wind from her. After checking several times to make sure she is indeed real, I am satisfied that she is quite authentic and hug her close once again.

     “Ummm....I’m not sure what’s going on all of the sudden but-”

     “Wait...” As I look around with her still in my arms, a gorgeous glow across her skin I realize we are standing just outside the bath. My rowdy roommates are inside engaged in some sort of lewd activity from the sounds echoing off the walls. Then it hits me...

     “This may sound strange but, didn’t I just catch you in a very compromising situation?” The furious blush that engulfs her cheeks before she buries her face in my chest tells me I just hit the nail on the head. Then that means...

     “Oh my god I’m SO embarrassed I’m going to die!” She nearly cries. 

     ‘No, you’re not. Not this time. Not ever again because of me.’    

     “Were you being serious when you said I was going to get punished?!” She mumbles into my jacket still completely obscuring her face from view. 

     “Yes. We gods don’t take kindly to peeping toms. Unfortunately goddess, you have to be thoroughly punished.” I can feel her body tense in my arms. Wearing the biggest smile I am quite certain I have ever shown, I turn and walk back down the hall with her in my arms.

     “Hue? I-I thought you were going to take me in there..”

     “Nope. I have something far more...intimate in mind for you. Don’t worry, I assure you my room is quite comfortable giving us all the privacy we’re ever going to need.”

-fin-

[deityparadox]

Reunited under the Moon 🌙

Chapter 4: Legend of Shun’e (Part 3)

Shun'e's tent

"Ne, Lady Shun'e, may I ask you a question?" Yayoi inquired as she tied a blue zhongyi around Shun'e's body.

"Nani, Yayoi-chan?" Shun'e replied back.

"How come you don't wear the colors of Emperor Haji's court?" Yayoi questioned as she began to place a white quju decorated with blue butterflies over the zhongyi.

"Fufufu~ Yayoi-chan, that's a question for Haji, not me," Shun'e said as she places her fingers gingerly on the black collar on her neck and gave Yayoi a meaningful smile.

"...If you say so, Lady Shun'e." Yayoi obeyed as she tied a blue sash with silver/gray snowflakes around Shun'e. She later took Shun'e by the hand and led her to a chair in front of a vanity.

"Yayoi-chan, can you do me a favor?" Shun'e asked as Yayoi began to brush the white cascade of hair.

"What would you like me to do, Lady Shun'e?"

"Give these to Haji."

With that said, Shun'e held a section of hair from the right front side of her head with her right hand. In her left hand was a shard of ice.

"Lady Shun'e! What are you doing?! Wait, is that ice in your hand?!" Yayoi gasped as the left hand came down swiftly on the section of hair. Now, the front side of Shun'e's hair was longer on the left than on the right.

"Like I said, Yayoi-chan. Give these to Haji or tie the strands around each of his arrows."

"Lady Shun'e, why? Why did you do that?"

"How would a mortal instrument defeat an immortal, without a little intervention~?"

"But..."

"Yayoi-chan, give these to Haji or tie these around the arrows that he will be using," Shun'e commanded. Her tone held a power that was equal to Emperor Haji's tone when he spoke; not even Empress Yu would speak in such a tone. ___________________________________ "Ne, Shun."

"Nani~?"

"Why can't you sound like that?"

"Fufufu~"

"Why do I have a bad feeling about this?"

(In a demonic voice) "Kneel."

"..."

"Oh, let me try."

"Ara, Kai~. You can try if you want to."

(In a sea demon's voice) "KNEEL."

"Kneel!"

"KNEEL!"

"Kneel~"

"...Ikkun, what are Kai and Shun doing?"

"...Just ignore those two..." ___________________________________ "As you wish, Lady Shun'e." Yayoi said submissively and bowed before exiting Shun'e's tent to head towards Emperor Haji's tent. ___________________________________ "Haru, why can't you be like that?"

"Hajime... shut up."

"Haru is fine the way he is."

"Indeed. I wouldn't change anything about him. He's the 'Holy Mother' of Six Gravity."

"Ah... arigato ne Kai, Shun..."

"Maa, I wish 'Haru' isn't so delicate. Even Kuroda is able to break 'Haru'."

"Agree."

"Arata! You!"

"Haru, shake it off." ___________________________________ Yayoi stopped at the flaps of Haji's tent before asking "Emperor Haji, may I come in?"

"Who wishes it enter?"

"It's me, Yayoi."

"You may enter."

With that command, Yayoi entered the tent and found Emperor Haji seated at his desk with an ink brush in his left hand, a scroll in front of him, and his right hand was by his temple. Laid out on the table, next to the scroll, were Haji's bow and his quiver of arrows. From an outsider's perspective, Emperor Haji was merely deep in thought; however, those close to Haji, such as Yu, Yayoi, even Shun'e, knew that the emperor was stressed. Haji had a tight grip on his brush, creating barely visible cracks on the bamboo handle. His right hand cast a shadow over his eyes, which held confusion and frustration.

"Emperor Haji, what is plaguing your mind?" Yayoi thought as she made her way to Haji and his table. As she walked closer to him, she could hear him muttering and bitterly laughing. She took a seat in front of Haji and cupped the left side of his face with her right hand. Her left hand moved to Haji's head and began to stroke his hair gently.

"Emperor Haji, what's wrong?" Yayoi questioned as Haji focused his attention on Yayoi, and a few moments later, removed her hands from his head.

Haji smirked before flicking Yayoi's forehead multiple times. ___________________________________ "So Haji's forehead flicking is his version of Hajime's Iron Claw."

"It sounds nicer than Iron Claw."

"I agree!"

"Of course, you would. You guys are always receiving Iron Claw!"

"Then you want me to flick your forehead next time?"

"The way you said that makes me want to reconsider that option. But it doesn't hurt to try."

"Arata!"

"It does sound nicer than Iron Claw. Wonder what it would be called. Iron..."

"Koi!" ___________________________________ "I'm sure, with all that knowledge in your head, it's a simple answer." he teased before frustration decorated his pretty face once again.

"Itai..." Yayoi hissed as she rubbed the abused area. She continued, despite the pain, "The answer is quite obvious. No mortal can defeat an immortal with just mortal instruments."

"May the gods help me in doing so." He murmured before taking out an arrow from the resting quiver and examined it.

"I think a goddess has given you help."

"Would you mind specifying how Yayoi?"

"Emperor Haji, Lady Shun'e wishes for me to tie these around your arrows. Although I don't know why, I have a slight clue why. May I?"

Haji looked conflicted before agreeing to the request. The bundle of hairs was split between the two and they both began to tie several strands around each of the 8 arrows. The pair worked in silence before Yayoi interrupted the comforting silence.

"Emperor Haji, there is something I would like to discuss with you. May I confide in you?"

"What do wish to discuss with me Yayoi?"

"I have been with you during the majority of your life and I have worn the colors of your court: black, purple and orange. When you bought Lady Shun'e into your court, you allowed her to have her own set of colors: white and blue. Now I wear the colors of you and Lady Shun'e." Yayoi confided and gestured to her hanfu, black with blue floral accents, "Why doesn't Lady Shun'e wear the color of your court?" ___________________________________ "Sō ieba, Shun'e wasn't wearing any clothing that has the colors black, purple or orange. She is always shown wearing something white or blue."

"Oh! Haji's and Shun'e's color scheme match Hajime's and Shun's color scheme in the Origin: Light and Dark stage play. Hajime's costume was black and orange. Shun's costume was white and blue."

"Sugoi Ikkun!"

"Arigato ne, Rui." ___________________________________ "A few years ago, Shun'e was a huge supporter of mine. She appeared in front of me, wearing my colors, but I disregarded her. During that time, I was an ambitious king, who refused anything but the best from the people. My ambition had to be their ambition; what they thought was unnecessary." Haji reminisced.

"The people still loved you." Yayoi insisted.

"Yet there were those who feared me, Yayoi."

"Despite them fearing you, they respected you," Yayoi assured.

"But I have you, Yu, Shun'e, and others to thank for my shift in perspective about governing the people."

"Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing themselves."

"That may be true...that was the last arrow. May the gods bless us. Oh, sō ieba, Yayoi can you give this to Shun'e?" Haji requested. He stood up from his place by the desk and walked towards a stack of lacquer boxes. He took the top two boxes and returned back to Yayoi, who was starting to stand up from her position by the desk.

"What are these?" Yayoi inquired as she took the boxes from Haji's hands. One was a square box made of dark red wood and an inlay of a gorgeous mikan tree. Yayoi couldn't help but wonder if the box was actually moving since the box itself was vibrating in her hand. ___________________________________ "Eh!! Diablo!"

"Ara~ Diablo has made his appearance!" ___________________________________ The second box was a hexagonal box with silver engravings decorating the cover.

"They're for Shun'e. She requested them and I didn't have time to give them to her when they arrived last week."

"I'll take my leave now, Emperor Haji."

With that said, Yayoi bowed before leaving Haji's tent. Before she was outside, Haji declared "Yayoi, you don't have to call me Emperor Haji. Just call me by my name. You've known me as long as I have known you."

"As you wish, Emper...er...Haji." Yayoi stuttered before scurrying back to Shun'e and her tent.

In Shun'e's tent

"Yayoi-chan! Welcome back! Did you do what I asked you to do? How was Haji? Yayoi, you're forehead is red! Are you okay?..." Shun'e babbled from her seat by the vanity.

"I'm alright, Lady Shun'e. You don't need to worry."

"...Oh, what's in your hands, Yayoi-chan?" Shun'e observed.

"Emperor Haji wished for me to give these to you." Yayoi curtly said.

Yayoi placed the two boxes on the vanity. Shun'e took the small silver box and smiled.

"This box isn't for me, Yayoi. It's for you." Shun'e extended her arm out to Yayoi, who retracted the box from Shun'e's hand.

"Eh? What do you mean?" Yayoi exclaimed as she opened the box. Inside the box was a silver circlet with two silver flowers hanging from the middle of the chain, in between the two flowers was a charm of a bird in flight.

"It's from me and Haji. I wanted to give you something in thanks for all that you do for me. So, thank you, Yayoi-chan. Oh, Yayoi-chan, let me put on you!"

Shun'e stood up from her chair and gently pushed Yayoi onto the seat. Yayoi looked into the mirror. Shun'e was right, her forehead now sported a red mark. As Yayoi was examining her forehead, Shun'e carefully wrapped the silver crown around Yayoi's head and pinned the connected pieces to the blonde hair. Yayoi felt a cold sensation on her forehead and looked at her reflection. It was perfect.

"Arigato, Lady Shun'e."

"Fufufu~Just called me Shun'e, Yayoi-chan." Shun'e giggled as she reached over to the mikan lacquer box.

She took the mikan box from the table and places the box on the ground. "Welcome home, Diablo!" she cheered as the mikan lacquer box twitched and started moving at a rapid pace around the tent.

"EH!! Lady Shun'e, WHAT IS THAT?!"Yayoi shrieked

"Fufufu~ It's alright Yayoi-chan." Shun'e replied with a meaningful smile.

Before Yayoi could say anything, drumbeats echoed in the mountain range.

It was time.

[ksmtotheworld]

Top of the day to you, it's a wonderful Sunday and I want to use this opportunity to thank you all for your LOVE and SUPPORT. I've been sending ceaseless broadcast in the last two months and not for a day has any of you complained and I'm really grateful and I know soon I'll be able to show my appreciation even more. King Solomon's Mine is more than a dream for me, it's the work the Lord has placed in my hands. We all can't be pastors and evangelist but we have a responsibility to hold forth, occupy the world and reach out to the lost souls. What are we doing as Christians and Moslems to add to the development of the world? Like I always say, I'm not the type that points fingers at any religion because I believe we've all been created for a special purpose that the world wouldn't be complete without. At the end, what really matters is the fact that there's only one God and we can only be saved through JESUS and till that happens, let's continue to live as one. GOD, after creation, looked at all He did and said it was BEAUTIFUL, so I believe in due time, everything will take shape because there's no perfection to all God has created, we just need to understand the purpose for which we've been created and play our part. Thanks once again for being a true friend, a super reader and an inspiration, keep reading and please take a second each day to share the links I send. Like I said, we all can't be ministers of God but we can contribute by reaching out. Someone out there might need that link you were privileged to get on a platter of gold but ignored. It only takes about 5 to 10 minutes to read and a minute to send. Bless a soul each day by supporting the CAUSE and may the good Lord bless you richly as you do. Amen Kay Magnate © KSM 2017 #kaymagnate #kingsolomonsmine #appreciation #momentofgratitude #myreaders #blogger #blog #author #writer #salvationstory #salvation #instagood #instago #instagram #happy #achiever #ambition #ceo #entrepreneur

[sabraeal]

Tetva discovers where her long lost boy has been hiding all these years.

She hates how they talk in this fucking country.

Clarines is a backwater compared to the splendor of Wati. It is only to be expected; while storied architects were birthing the vision of the blessed city into being, these milk-pale children were still hitting each other with sticks, fucking their sisters and the god knows what else. That she has been brought so low to seek her fortune here rankles, makes her want to lash out a bite like the bitch’s soul inside her tells her to.

And maybe Tevta would, if these people had more meat on them than matchsticks.

These Clarines are all thin-faced, skin and bone, though they do not have the gauntness that suggests hunger. If she ate as well as these imbeciles, she would be round of face and healthily plush; but it seems they are built for height as opposed for beauty. A pity, since she is to look at them for the foreseeable future.

And their language, by the god, it was even uglier. It lacked music, spoken up at the front of the mouth with teeth and lips, all open and without any depth. It sat heavyon her tongue like a dead thing; an unpleasant experience as any other she has had – and Tevta has been stabbed in the chest and let for dead. She has a wealth of unpleasantness to draw from.

She needs a plan. Something to get her out of here. Something to get her back to Wati.

“You should have seen it!” One of the men at the bar is loud, drunk. In Wati she would have killed him, but here they seem to care about things like that. A pity.

“Keep your voice down, Kai,” sighs one of his companions. “We all heard the story a thousand times.”

“She rode in like some sort of hero out of legend,” this Kai presses, much to the discontent of his colleagues. “Hair and cloak billowing around her, and she just told His Majesty she –”

“Needed to speak with him in private,” one of the other men groans. “We know, you told us –”

Tevta sighs, wondering if it might be better to find another pub’s dark corner to crawl into, but –

“And Sir Obi behind her!”

Her hands press flat into the table, resisting the urge to curl into claws. Obi. Obi was here.

Goodness. Sometimes things do happen for a reason.

She turns, and she sees the men clad in royal livery. Her mouth stretches grins. It seems her little boy has moved up in the world since last she saw him.

Then again, he always did know how to stab his way to the top.

“Excuse me?” she trills, letting her accent become thicker as she speaks, composing her face into something inquisitive and hopeful. She’s not dressed right for this, but she doesn’t have time to find some peasant get up; she’ll just have to trust that her work clothes make her story seem more plausible.

A taller, dark-haired man turns. “May I help you, ma’am?”

“I heard you talking about – about a Sir Obi?” She tries not to grin at that. Oh, how conveniently he had placed him. She’s always known he was special.

“The prince’s immediate knight?” slurs the man called Kai. “He’s the most dangerous man in all of Clarines. They say he can – he can see in the dark like a cat.”

The other man sighs, shaking his head. “Sorry ma’am. Yes, we were talking about Sir Obi. Tangentially,” he adds with a quelling look toward his drunk comrade.

“Oh, praise –” What did these heathens worship? Ah, who cares – “the gods!”

She’s able to summon up a few tears, letting them spill convincingly down her cheeks. Not too many – men dodn’t want to speak with a weeping woman – but just enough to convey gratitude.

“I have been searching for ten long years!” she sighs wistfully. “And now he has been found. Obi is the name of my son!”

He blinks, wide-eyed. His other companions seem similarly shocked. “His –” the man’s eyes run over her – “mother?”

The drunk one blurts out, “Never thought Obi had a mom.” The tall, dark-haired one cuffs him, not as hard as Tevta would.

One of his more sober compatriots offers, “Certainly looks like she could have kept up with him.”

“He is dark haired, a face like mine?” she tells them, beseeching. She’s glad that all true Wati looks the same to these heathens. “Around your age, perhaps. A clever boy, always good with his hands?”

“Sounds right,” the man concludes. He smiles kindly, and she knows she has chosen the right sort of idiot. “Would you like to see him?”

Her eyes grow wide, fearful. Here would be the kicker. “Oh no! He wouldn’t want to see me.” She ducks her head, ashamed. “I’m afraid we had a falling out all those years ago. When I finally overcame my own injured feelings, he was gone without a trace…”

“I’m sure that’s not true, ma’am,” the man says, too kind. Are all Clarinese such fools?

“You’re kind to say so,” she tells him, wistful. “But it is enough to know that he is well…”

The men all exchange glances. “Are you in Clarines long?” one asks, trying too hard to seem innocent.

Not if she can help it. “For a little while longer. I’m staying in one of the rooms above this taphouse.”

“And you could be found here in the evenings?”

She suppresses her grin, instead widening her eyes, nodding. “And the mornings.”

“Well then,” says the first man with a smile. “Don’t give up hope of reconciliation.”

“Oh,” she says, rubbing the space over her heart, the raised scar tickling her palm. “I’ve never doubted we’d see each other again.”