#laos mythology
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ambisun · 2 years ago
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Laos Fable: Child of the Woods
We are thrilled to announce that our Kickstarter campaign for Tales and Oracle of Eleven, a storybook and oracle deck based on Southeast Asian mythology is just around the corner. 
Here’s an Illustration that I created for a story from Laos called Child of the Woods. It is a story about a girl who chose to live in solitude in the woods as she finds it difficult to exist in her village and the people around her. The full story is much longer, but I'll leave the rest for you to discover when you get the book.
To ensure you don't miss out on the early bird rewards be sure to follow us on Kickstarter.
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spiralingemptyness · 1 year ago
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so since I’m kinda dead take a sketchbook spam
we got Greek gods, bistro huddy, and Shanks, Kung Jin and Alastor :))))) the hyperfixations be fixating
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teachanarchy · 3 months ago
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The real tale of the Monkey King in Heaven - Ji Hao
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yebreed · 1 year ago
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Inspired by @juglone.)
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briefbestiary · 2 years ago
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One of the dragon's nine sons, Pulao loves to roar. Due to how he screams and roars, he is depicted atop bells.
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x-heesy · 9 months ago
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@wetwicksdry
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@yantastic
HelloFrom Yangshuo. This is Lao Huang, a 86 years old cormorant fisherman living in Yangshuo, China. Sadly the 1300 years old fishing method now only survives as a tourist attraction in modern days. // I’m excited to go back to China next month to work with a local tourism board. Can you guess where? ————————————————
Remember, don’t settle for anything less than magic.
#postoftheday #regram #heavenisonearth #takemethere #yantastic #yangshuochina #onlyinchina #madeinchina #mfbeautiful #ilovewitches #chiniseculture #musicandart #peaceful #soulfood #harmony #symbiose #mystic #fisherman #thankyousomuch
Soundtrack: Seer by Witch
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Credits above
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amongdragons · 1 year ago
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Laozi on Martiality: Warfare and Arms Use
Civility and martiality from the Taoist point of view are only in an imaginary confrontation. Taoism denies both, since both represent a deviation from primordial naturalness. However, a close examination of scholar sources shows that despite the condemnation of war in the writings of Laozi, classical philosophy considers it justified to resort to weapons if one is guided by…
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queers-gambit · 3 months ago
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All Mine
title citation: song by Brent Faiyaz
prompt: ( requested ) you and Tangerine break up, and the man you date after is a serious downgrade. on a night out, Tangerine decides your story isn't yet finished.
pairing: Tangerine x female!reader
fandom masterlist: Bullet Train
word count: 7k+
note: did i use this gif already? yes. but it fits the theme of this story.
warnings: same drill - Tan's government name is Aaron, Lem's is Brian. cheater!Reader (not on but with Tan, you'll see), some angst, break-ups, but overall hurt and comfort, happy ending, small NSFW, random "State Farm" quote (not sponsored), smoking indoors, brief domestic aggression, brief violence (it's Tan), term "going postal" used, not edited. "not all men" only applies to Tan i don't make the rules.
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We begin today by discussing the concept of soulmates.
World renowned Ancient Greek philosopher, Plato (born Aristocles, not to be mistaken for Aristotle), once theorized that humans were originally created with four arms, four legs, and two faces. The Greek God, Zeus, motivated either by fear of man's potential power or the need to reprimand their arrogant pride, decided to punish humans by severing them into two perfect halves - dooming them to roam the Earth in search of their whole self.
According to Ancient Chinese mythology, The Red String of Fate (tied by the Lunar matchmaking God, Yue Lao) says lovers who are destined to be are tied together through lifetimes by a red string - the color that symbolizes happiness - regardless of time, place, or circumstance. This string might stretch or tangle (like all relationships), but will never break.
Some Western cultures believe in the idea of simple "soulmates", two people destined to meet and love one another unconditionally. They thought their souls are someway, somehow intertwined - be it in the stars, by the cosmos, or even some intrusive, baby-presenting, diaper-wearing, winged fucker named Cupid. "Soulmates" operate as two halves of one whole, yet still remain two separate individual persons. The idea originates from Plato's theory, but essentially affirms: there's a perfect someone for everyone.
Other cultures might say their religious deity or just faith in said religion is peoples one, true love. Some argue a "soulmate" isn't a romantic partner at all, but instead, a person's twin. You know, same womb, same "soul", that kinda reasoning.
Akin to the Greeks, theosophy claims God created androgynous souls, and these souls were individually split into the two genders they once were. Each half seeks the other, and when their karmic debt is paid (being a reason they were split in the first place), the two halves will return to their whole, true self.
and before anyone says anything about gender, remember, these theologies originate from a time that a modern day Taco Bell dollar menu burrito would literally make the theologists implode!
Some New Age philosophy says a soulmate is a totally separate entity (meaning, not split or derived from us), and who spends lifetimes as your friend, lover, co-worker, partner. Soulmates are the greatest union of the heart, no matter the shape or form it presents as; being two connected souls. Hence platonic soulmates, as well.
Other common literary soulmate idioms:
cut from the same cloth -> meaning being so in-tune and similar in characteristics, demeanor, and / or behavior, you "must've" come from the same place.
apple of my eye -> while, yes, it means being extremely important to a person, it also could mean being the "core" of your lover's heart and / or soul; similar to how an apple core keeps the fruit's integrity.
better / other half -> it's 2 am, this is pretty self explanatory.
ride or die -> again, self explanatory - but indicates that a soulmate will live life loyally with you in good and bad times.
match made in heaven -> being absolutely SO perfect for each other, your love was crafted by divine intervention in the eternal kingdom of heaven - where a thing or two about "soulmates" might be known.
my heart and soul -> your love being so strong, so right, it takes over logic and emotion; and intoxicates your very soul - your entire being.
No matter what approach you take, what you do or don't believed, there was no denying: Aaron was your soulmate.
That arrogant, smug, sarcastic, devilishly handsome, mysterious, devious, sneaky, alluring, intelligent, bitchy, suave, charming, intuitive, opinionated jackass who used the operative codename Tangerine.
But to you, he was Tan. Tangie. Aaron. Ace. The love of your life.
You couldn't avoid it. There was no wishing him away, no genie to appear for your third wish. There was no point in trying to avoid or deny your feelings anymore, they were an 18-wheeler and there was no crosswalk in sight; and that's where everything fell apart - realizing you were ready and willing for this emotion to come barreling into you. When things got serious, when you were ready for distinct, specific commitment, Aaron suddenly reared back and put so much distance between you, it was as if he catapulted into a different timezone.
You had been at a mutual friend's birthday party, and after several rounds of alcohol, where everyone was good and buzzed and happy in their own little worlds, incidentally toppled into a public showdown.
"What's the rush?" Aaron asked you, tears inconceivably dribbling down your cheeks one-by-one while stood in a packed-out bar. "Huh? What's your rush to get married? Things have been so good, doll - so fucking good - and you want to ruin that? This isn't - "
You barked, "'Ruin that'? Ruin, what, exactly!? Aaron, we've been together five years - five fucking years, half a bloody decade - how could you possibly say you don't know if you want to marry me or not yet!?"
"It's not you, love - "
"It's not me, it's marriage that scares you!?" You snarled, so used to hearing it, you can quote him.
"Yes!"
"It's the same difference! You love me, but marriage is so scary, it's not worth it, even with me! No matter how much you say you love me, right? You just can't - no, no! - you won't love me enough to marry me! Because you're capable of it, you're capable of loving me enough, but you're much more comfortable being an emotionless jackass - "
"No, no, don't go putting words in my mouth," he groaned, head tilting back, shaking his curls as he rightened to look at you. "Baby, just listen to me, please, neither of us are in a state to have this conversation - "
"We never are, according to you! It's never the right time, the right energy, right setting! What's the issue, Aaron? Huh?" You felt your anger crack and chip away like a hard boiled egg, revealing the soft emotion inside. "What's the real problem being with me? With marrying me?"
"We're just - we're so young!"
"Try again."
"You're just not thinking about - "
"Oh, no, but I am!" You snapped, setting your nearly empty glass to the bartop and shocking yourself (and the eavesdropping bartender) that it didn't shatter. "I am thinking, Aaron, I'm finally thinking about myself - for once - and I know what I want! And you know what? I'm not afraid anymore to ask for what I know I deserve!"
Aaron scoffed, shaking his head as he did when faced with confrontation. "Neither of us are drunk or sober enough to get though this conversation, so... Let's just..." He trailed, brows furrowing when you shook your head with a hateful scoff, yanked from his grip, and stormed away. But he quickly snatched your upper arm, halting your escape, demanding, "Wait, wait, wait, hang on, love. What are you doing? Where are you going?"
"Away from you - "
"They haven't even cut the cake, baby, c'mon, the night is still early - "
"Excuse me while I don't want to stand around here with my ex-boyfriend in front of our friends pretending to be happy."
"What're you - ex-boyfriend?" He stuttered in genuine hurt and confusion.
In that moment, like divine intervention to semi-prove your point, Brian, Aaron's brother, who used the codename Lemon, dropped in. Tangerine let go of you to not make it look like he was holding you in place. "S-Sorry, I know this looks tense, but, uh, bruva," Brian showed Tangerine his phone, "we've gotta go, man..."
"We're in the middle of something, Lem."
"I get that, but... Duty calls, mate."
Tangerine sighed, hand through his hair, turning to you in what you used to think was real empathy. "I-I'm so sorry, love, I have to go - but we'll finish this conversation when I get home, okay? Yeah?
You sniffled and nodded sadly, "See? You see? You love your job more than me, that literally in the middle of a fight about marriage, you're gonna go. Did you see how easy that was for you? Yet you can't love me enough? In a much less high-stakes situation?" With another nod, but this time out of realized confirmation, you breathed, "I'm done, Tangerine." He knew you were serious when you reverted back to his codename; stripping the personal warmth from your tone. "Okay? I'm done. I can't do this anymore, it's absolutely unfair. You've made it clear, you don't want to marry me, so, that's fine, but I'm not in the business of wasting anymore time than I already have. Now," you took a breath, "we can talk later about getting your shit outta my place, probably after your mission, but until then, just please, leave me the fuck alone."
You swore that was going to be the end. It was supposed to be. There was never supposed to be a relapse. Never an epilogue. The Tangerine / Aaron chapter was closed, the entire book was supposed to be closed!
But when you're single for the first time in five years, you kinda forget how to casually date.
There's dating apps, which, as some might know, is just a nightmare experience. There's sometimes local singles events - but they're not always the vibe you usually want to spend your energy on. Matchmakers were (apparently) thousands of wasted dollar. Dating coworkers is typically ALWAYS weird unless you're Jim and Pam, or Meredith and Derek, or whatever other couples TV romanticized. Reality dating shows? That air out all your business? PASS. Taking your mother's recommendations? PASS. Especially if she has her little "church friends" trying to set you up, too? HARD PASS. Sometimes, you just start praying for a hunky Italian Mobster to abduct you - it honestly sounds a little easier (read: this is sarcasm)! Your friends try to set you up, but it usually doesn't click, or it's a strange experience that makes you reject further offers. You could always hope a guy spills your coffee and offers to buy you a new one, which turns into you talk the day away - but life isn't a Glen Powell movie.
Oh, and don't even get me started on ghosting - fuck you if you ghost people, you immature coward.
So, sometimes, you get real lonely, start to feel a little self pity, like you made a mistake breaking up... And maybe you seek company in alcohol... And that alcohol can sometimes help you reminisce... Which exasperates the loneliness... And eventually, maybe that little devil on your should convinces your to text your ex... Which in turn, starts an entire precedent about it being "okay" to go back to him in times of need and desire, of desperation, sometimes of boredom, or even times of comfort.
Aaron had left you alone after the break up, he knew to give you space; so, when you start casually fucking about a year after ending things, it was you pulling all the strings. Women in power, ammirite? Though, Aaron didn't mind your use of him, he always thought the break-up was a fluke of some kind, something fleeting, temporary - hence why he left you alone to sort your feelings. Aaron knew he wasn't perfect, but neither were you; resulting in plenty of "negative" aspects of your relationship, but there were far more positives - more ups than downs - assuring you both know, this was real. This was love. This was true love. It was eternal and raw and passionate... But you couldn't wait forever for him to face his fears.
Until... One night, after hours in his sheets, from the side of his bed, you declared, "This was the last time, Aaron."
He watched you hook your bra, cigarette in his mouth. "Oh, yeah?" He mused, having heard it before. "All right, sweetheart. Same time next week, yeah?" Aaron laughed at his own joke, casually flicking ash into the bedside tray.
"No. I'm being serious, Ace," you sighed almost sadly. You stood to yank your panties and leggings up in one move; shifting your hips, wiggling a bit to adjust the feeling of tightly wadded cloth cutting through raw coochie. "Ryan and I, uh... We're, uh, you know," you cleared your throat, trying to situate your tee shirt without looking at him, "we're going exclusive."
"Uh-huh, is that so?"
"Yep."
"When was this decision made?"
"Oh, uh," you blanched, "the idea was proposed a couple days ago, but we're making it official tonight - "
"I've seen you 8 fucking times this week and it's only Tuesday - "
"I know - "
"What the fuck, Y/N!?"
You glared, "What do you want me to say, Aaron!?"
"That you're not being serious! We're supposed to be together, not whatever - "
"You knew that we were just fucking to blow off steam and fill certain voids, we weren't back together! You always knew one day, this was bound to happen."
"Why? Huh? Why fuck me, but date him?"
"Because you're allergic to committeemen and Ryan isn't!"
"So, why do you keep comin' around? Why keep comin' back t'me, huh? If he's willing to commit, why're you the one fucking around on him? With me?" But the look on your face said it all, making Aaron laugh spitefully, "Ohhh, no, oh, sweetheart. Oh, don't fucking tell me, doll, he's not fucking you right?"
"For fuck's sake, would you please get off your high horse a single moment just to fuck off - "
"Why else would you keep coming back?" He demanded, smug as could be. "Don't wanna date me, but you'll fuck me? Oh, poor Ryan must really be lacking - "
"I told you, this is the last time."
"Yeah, uh-huh, sure," he laughed, leaning back, hands behind his head. "They all always say that before they come crawling back in my bed."
"The fuck is that supposed to mean?" You snarled, feeling more hurt than you should've. And Tangerine could read it all over your face. "I told you every man I slept with - granted it's only been two this past year, but still - are-are-are you saying there's been others? That you haven't told me about? Have you been fucking other people while fucking me?"
"Hang on, love, listen, I didn't mean - "
"I think I need to go, this was a mistake - all of this - coming back here, fucking you. I need to go," you huffed, stepping into your Crocs (for a quick escape), and rushing to grab your jacket, purse, and keys. The entire time, Tangerine was trying to amend what he said, but it felt like the (final?) nail in the coffin you had been waiting on; assurance that you needed to be without Aaron. See, upon your casual fuck, you agreed to date and sleep with others if you wanted - you weren't exclusive - but for reasons deemed useless now, you were supposed to tell one another about other partners. And he couldn't even do that?
So, you left his flat, and when he followed you out, he saw you disappear at Olympic sped down the staircase - key to his place left on the hallway floor.
"Well, well," his elderly cougar neighbor leaned in her doorway, watching you go with crossed arms and a smirk, "looks like li'l miss is gone finally, huh? This mean you're available for dinner tonight?"
Tangerine snatched the key from the ground, "Not tonight, Mrs. Roberts."
"It's 'Ms' now," she informed, but Tan didn't even hear; just slipped inside his flat, shut the door, locked it, and stood in the foyer, palm flat, looking at the key as if it were a foreign object, for 37 minutes.
Knowing how upset you were, Tangerine didn't try to contact you. Yet one week after your fight, when he knew your standing "Soul Cycle" class took place and you'd came by after, he set up his flat. He got you dozens of apologetic roses all mixed with bright sunflowers and dotted with baby's breath - bouquets he put together himself. Candles lined the place, all lit within fire code restrictions. He played light, modern instrumental music because he knew it had been on your Spotify playlist - not that he was checking it or anything. He cooked your favorite meal by hand. He cleaned himself up, styled his hair, wore the cologne you got him for your first Christmas together (that he's never changed), and wore the baby blue button-up he knew drove you crazy. To top it all off, he got a very dainty golden bracelet - one that was nice enough to convey the amount he spent (as if money = sincerity of apology) but still simple enough that Ryan wouldn't notice if it became part of your normal jewelry box. In fact, nobody would - except you and Tangerine, the way he likes things. The bracelet is even engraved with a subtle 'A' because no matter who you date, he always knew you'd be his and he'd be yours - but wouldn't point this out to you... Yet.
Your class ends at 6:30, you were never later than 7:05. He was ready and waiting at the door, going over his apology by 6:15. He changed into a new, identical shirt at 6:33 after sweating through the first; drying himself, spraying extra antiperspirant over his torso. He changed the tissue wrapping of his offering bouquet so it wasn't wet from his sweaty palms when he gave it to you at 6:41. At 6:46, he began pacing. Aaron began impulsively checking his phone at 6:53. He didn't have your location anymore (a con to the break-up he strongly protested out of fear for your safety) so he couldn't check if you were lost, in trouble, in traffic, at that smoothie place you loved. 7:15 rolled around, no key in the lock. At 7:22, he called Brian in a panic.
"What's wrong? She's just late, Aaron, take a breath, mate."
"She's never late."
7:30 turned to 8... Then to 9... And finally, at 10, Tangerine realized you were serious - that was the last time together.
The hurt suddenly set in, realizing you're not coming back. Selfishly, he knew, he could fill a void no man - even one as objectively good as Ryan - could. He knew you must've felt lonely; craving adventure and spontaneity, something exciting that he knew you lacked with Ryan - or any man.
For days, he agonized - trying to get in your head.
Without him, were you lonely? His job makes him travel, but did Ryan ever take you anywhere? Did he surprise you? Open your doors? Send you flowers? Keep you waiting? Did Ryan communicate with you in the way Tangerine knew you preferred? Was he kind? ...Were you alone?
He knew for a fact, when together, no matter what, he never made you feel unloved, under appreciated, devalued, taken for granted, but perhaps that changed when he began his allergic reaction to the prospect of marriage.
Two years. Two years since breaking up. One year since you ended your Friends with Benefits situationship. One year, you've been with Ryan, and by God, did it drive Aaron insane. For months, Brian felt a responsibility for his part in pulling Tan away that night instead of leaving him to work things out with you, but his brother assured it was a long time coming... Though, Tan had to admit, he never thought it'd go this long.
Like a good neighbor, Jake from State Farm is there! But like a good brother, Brian is there to take Aaron out for a night of necessary debauchery. This was an otherwise mundane activity, something to blow off steam and remove oneself from reality - yet fate works in really funny ways.
The club Lemon chose was packed to the brim; stuffed with bumping, sweaty bodies; strung out to blaring music in various zombified states induced by drugs, alcohol, or maybe both. Luckily, their group had an elevated position in the club's VIP seating, keeping away from the dance floor; giving limited advantage in height when surveying the area.
That's how Tangerine saw you after a year.
Judging from the glittery sash and cheap tiara on your friend's head, he guessed you were there for a birthday party; feeling his stomach knot itself into a noose when he noted Ryan hovering around your flank. He wore khakis, loafers, a creased, pale yellow button-up he guessed was thrifted; holding his drink in one hand, the other shoved in his pocket, bobbing and nodding awkwardly to the thumping music.
When you moved, so he Ryan. When you threw back a shot, Ryan looked away with a long, heavy sigh and curled lip. When you tried to dance, Tangerine saw Ryan snatch your upper arm to reprimand directly in your ear; a couple of your friends even shooting him looks of distain.
A hand clapped heavily on his shoulder, Lemon appearing at Tan's side. "Only you would come t'a club, mate, crawlin' with babes, yeah?" He gestured to the scantily dressed women dancing provocatively around them with his hand holding a drink, "And stand here, like-like, you're Lurch or some shit!"
"'Lurch'?" Tangerine repeated, eyes never straying from where you were in an obvious disagreement with Ryan.
"Like - you know - from the Addam's Family? Tall fucker? Just stands 'round, leering?" Lemon listed intentionally, seeing his brother unmoving. "Jesus, fuck, mate, just go talk to her already! Swear, you stand here any longer, watchin' people, they'll toss us out 'cause of the complaints. Shape up, mate, time t'shit or get off the pot. Move it."
Tangerine finally adjusted his stance, sniffling, shaking his head, "Nah, mate, don't know what you're talkin' 'bout - "
"She's right fuckin' there," Lemon pointed, outing his brother completely, "and you've been a bitch for too long about this. When are you gonna get another chance like right now? Swallow your fuckin' pride, yeah? And just go talk to her! Go apologize! Get her back! 'Cause, just look at her, mate," Lemon paused, both watching you, "think she's happy with a bloke like that? Treats her like that? Only time I ever saw her look at you like that was the night youse two broke up..."
Lemon offered a pursed-lip-smile, patting Tangerine on the shoulder twice and backing up a couple paces. It was like he watched the final bit of confidence Tan needed inject itself into his heart; shoulders almost doubling in size as he shed his suit jacket too casually. Lemon materialized to accept it, laying it in their private booth as Tangerine lit up a cigarette, pocketed his solid gold cuff links, and began rolling up his sleeves while surging through the VIP section and into the general population.
Lemon followed swiftly, several others on their tail as the promise of excitement was too good to pass up.
"I'm telling you, you're being fucking embarrassing!" Ryan was heard snarling. "Let's go home before you make it worse! I have a reputation to protect, imagine what anyone would say if they saw my girlfriend acting like a fucking fool!"
"Oh, Jesus, I have two shots and you think I'm wasted? That I have to go home? You think you can treat me like I'm some child? I'm not going anywhere with you," you snapped back.
"I told you we'd be here an hour - it's past that - "
"Oh, for fuck's sake, it's a birthday party! We weren't ever going to stay just an hour!"
"You're embarrassing yourself, now let's fucking go!" Ryan grabbed you again to emphasize his point, but you didn't even get a chance to struggle because Tangerine was imposing himself between you; plucking his smoldering cigarette from his lips, French inhaling the smoke. Ryan snarled, forced back a step, "The fuck - "
"She said she's not going anywhere with you, so I suggest you walk away," Tangerine growled, smoke billowing from his lips.
"Who the fuck do you think you are?" Ryan scoffed, looking close to laughing.
"That's my girl you're fucking with, so, again, walk away," he lifted his cigarette for a puff.
"Tangie," you spoke gently, holding the back of his designer black shirt and gently tugging him backward, "Tangie, c'mon, baby, back up, let it go."
"'Your girl'?" Ryan actually laughed at Tan, not hearing you over the deafening music, but the two men were clear as day to one another. "Got it fucked up, playboy, if you're tryna tell me what's what about what's mine."
"Yeah?" Tan nodded, grinning slowly. "Think she's yours?"
"She ain't nobody else's - "
"That why she was coming to me this whole time?" Tan taunted. "'Cause you couldn't make her nut, couldn't fuck her right. What a fucking shame, then she had to come to me 'cause I don't disappoint her. She likes the way I fuck 'cause it's the only time I get rough with her, not like you - "
The gathered crowd gasped when Ryan swung first - everyone saw it. The punch never landed, Tangerine keeping you behind him as he adjusted to upper cut Ryan. It spurred an entire altercation; your girlfriends quickly scurrying out of the way as Ryan and "his boys" tried to take on Tangerine, Lemon, and their entourage. The smoldering cigarette was dropped. Security had to step in, blood making the linoleum floors slicker than spilt alcohol made it sticky, both parties being escorted out of different exits of the venue.
You were faced with a decision.
"Y/N! C'mon!" The birthday girl called, holding up her bloodied boyfriend. Ryan paused and glared at you, face fucked, nose broke, eye darkening, jaw swollen, blood smeared; waiting for your decision. You shook your head and let the drunken crowd swallow your form.
Unsure how, you were let into the VIP section to grab Tangerine and Lemon's belongings, quickly jogging in your glittering heels towards the back exit.
"Should've fuckin' killed him - did you fuckin' hear him!? You saw him, what he did!?" Tangerine was raging, pacing the alley as his group watched on; unsure what to say or do to calm him down. "He fucking grabbed her, too, should go find him - put his fucking face in the Goddamn pavement - "
"Hey."
Tangerine froze when your voice was heard, meekly standing there with suit jackets in arm.
"Baby girl!" Lemon barked, laughing happily and opening his arms. "Oh! There she is! C'mere!" He happily growled, hugging you tightly. The others picked up on the hint, excusing themselves to find the cars while Lemon greeted you and Tangerine almost shit a brick.
"Oh, uh," you breathed when Lem pulled away, "I grabbed your jacket, sweetie."
"Thanks, love, can always count on yah," he beamed, accepting the apparel. He glanced over his shoulder and nodded, "I, uh, I'll go help find the car. We'll be at the end of the alley, yeah?"
"Yeah," you agreed, nodding; squeezing his arm softly before letting him pass. Almost sheepishly, you approached Tangerine, lips rolled between your teeth, noting the split lip and disheveled curls. His hands were on his hips, pacing a small circle, head tilted and unable to meet your gaze. "You, uh, got a li'l something," you gestured at your mouth.
His head lifted, seeing the small teasing glint to your eyes; making him smirk and joke back, "Yeah, just a bit, huh?"
"And you left this," you held out his suit jacket.
When he took it back, Tangie nodded and rushed, "Come home, doll."
"Aaron - "
"Nah, nah, c'mon, come home, baby, please. I know I've been the worst, I know you didn't deserve it - but after losing you... Actually losing you... I mean, when you didn't show up, like you said - I felt everything at once and I knew that I'd never be the man who deserved you, but I owed it to us to try. So... I made the decision to love you better."
"That's nice to hear, but - "
"But without action, it don't mean shit, I know," he finished for you, stepping closer to caress your cheek. "If you let me, baby, I swear, I'll love you better."
You couldn't verbally answer, just sigh and lean forward to rest your forehead on his chest for just a moment of peace. "Thank you," you mumbled, "for earlier, when Ryan got aggressive."
His arms came around in a vice, keeping you close and enveloped in his warmth. Tangerine promised, "Never gotta thank me, baby. Never." A horn blared from the mouth of the alley, knowing it was Aaron's people and you needed to make a decision. Right here. Right now. Yet, your ex just sighed and pulled away, offering, "We can drop you home, if you like. Or I'll get'cha a hotel, can crash with Brian - "
"Can I stay with you?"
Tangerine gulped, appearing shocked but agreeing, "Of course, baby, yeah, yeah, 'course, c'mon, let's go, this way, watch your step, love."
He quickly dropped his arms only to pull his jacket over your shoulders; keeping you at his side as he lead you to the idling car. Unknown to you, Ryan was at his own car, watching, waiting; seeing you leave with Aaron made his blood boil - but when his eyes connected with Aaron's over the roof of his car, seeing him grin, Ryan swore he could've gone postal.
"Are you guys alright?" You checked, Tan keeping you so close, you were practically on his lap. Brian was driving and two other guys sat passenger, all giving varying assurances that they were okay.
"Them frat fucks couldn't hit for shit, love, swear," Brian chuckled from the front seat. "Don't nobody fuck with our girl, yeah?"
"'Our girl'?" You repeated in amusement.
"You's Tangie's girl, yeah?" The guy next to you, codename Fuji, softly explained, "Makes you's untouchable, it does, yeah?"
You just chuckled slightly, readjusting so your arm around Tan's neck tightened; his own around your hips doing the same, silently snuggling closer. The car ride was entertaining to say the least, the lads filling the space with meaningless but very loud conversation about everything and nothing. To your relief, Lemon pulled up to Tan's building first; you two piling out of the car to the sounds of three randy lads cheering.
"C'mere," Tan huffed, one arm wrapping around your waist as the other offered the tinted car The Bird. He lead you towards the building, nodding to the doorman in greeting, "Big man."
This doorman had manned your building since years before you ever moved in; grinning at the sight of you, "Well, well, well... You two look real smitten, you do. There some reason? Aye?"
"Oh, I don't wanna hear it!" You whined jokingly, Tangerine laughing in triumph.
"Got my girl back," Tan clapped his hand into the doorman's, "huh? Told you."
"Aye-heeeyyyy! Welcome home, Missus!"
"Tuh," you barked with a fake laugh, sending Tangerine a sharp look over your shoulder. "Thank you, Thomas," you squeezed the man's arm as you passed.
"Ma'am," he tipped his hat, letting Tan go after you, before securing the door shut.
"Hear that?" You shot at Tan, the lobby attendant sitting up in attention behind the welcome desk. "Even Tom - "
"Don't start before we even get in the door," he chuckled, sighing, nodding to the pimply teen nephew of the building's owner before approaching the elevator bay.
"Don't be a dick - "
"I'm not trying to be, love, I just - I want us to get inside before we do. Yeah?" He frowned, petting hair from your forehead as the elevator dinged upon arrival. "I want us to talk 'bout it, alluvit, doll, but let us get home first."
You sighed and agreed, the machinery traveling up to your flat's floor; which required a key to access. There were only four flats on this floor - all having two stories - and when the elevator dinged to announce your arrival, one of the doors flew open.
You gasped, hand slapping to your mouth to hold in the shrill laughter that rammed into your lips in a desperate attempt to escape. Your eyes widened. You stopped short in your place when Ms. Roberts sauntered into her doorway, leaning on the frame in brand new, expensive, racy lingerie. Her greying hair was curled in stiff ringlets, her make-up heavy and obvious, smelling like she had bathed in perfume by the way it choked you in the hallway.
"Oh, hello, there. About time you got home - OH!" She purred in a low, sexy rumble before jumping in fright when she caught sight of you under Tangie's protective arm. With a squeal, she ducked back into her home and slammed the door; leaving you and Tan froze in place.
"Oh... My... God."
"Get inside, let's go, c'mon, inside, inside, inside, I won't survive if she comes back," Aaron laughed, ushering you to the door.
"I don't think she would, either," you couldn't help but giggle; entering over the threshold after Tan unlocked the door.
The lighter energy surrounding you two evaporated as you took note that Tangerine hadn't changed anything in the year (and change) you've been separated, a haunting comfort to see now. There was the familiar ghost of who you once were, but all of that was forgotten when Tan's hand slid around your waist from behind.
"All right, love?" He asked in your ear, mouthing at the shell in the way that made your head fall to the side.
"Just a lot of memories here," you whispered, holding his arms to your waist.
Tangerine licked at your exposed neck. "We'll make more," he promised.
"I'm sorry I missed so many."
He paused, sighing; forcing you to shiver from the shock of air over your wet skin. Tan straightened up but kept you in his arms, assuring, "It's my fault. But, uh..." Your head turned to look, watching Tan pull his wallet out and sigh sheepishly, open it, then pluck a gorgeous diamond ring from the bill slot.
"What the hell is that...?"
"When I found it, I first kept it in the box, always on me. Just in case, you know, the moment was right - that you'd believe me when I ask you to marry me. But the box kinda," he shrugged, "fell apart from me openin' it, movin' it around."
"So you put a," you squinted, holding his wrist to look at the ring pinched in his fingers, "3 karat diamond ring in your wallet?"
"3 and a half..."
"Aaron," you sighed, turning to face him fully; unable to tear your gaze away from the ring. "I don't want this ring if - "
"No, no 'ifs'," he rushed, "I swear, it's what I want - it's what I've always wanted and just couldn't admit. After tonight, I don't think I can keep this ring - it needs on your finger and that bastard needs put in the ground - "
"Can you not ruin this proposal by threatening to murder my ex?" You laughed, watching his split lips spread into a grin.
"This a proposal?"
"If you word it right, could be."
"Lemme get on my knee - "
"No," you stopped him, nodding, whispering, "just ask me."
Aaron blinked once in confusion, then simply asked, "Will you marry me?"
You levitated into his arms; arms coiling around his neck; lips to his; sucking air from his lungs into yours, mumbling, "Yes, yes, yes," repeatedly. In surprise, Aaron stumbled back a few steps but caught himself, chuckling, fully hoisting you into his embrace.
"Right answer," he teased, carrying you through the apartment and to the nearest piece of furniture - the couch. Dropping down with you straddling his lap, he chuckled, "Here, put it on, yeah? Keep it safe." You grinned and accepted the ring, letting him slide it on, but unable to admire it in full as it became a free-for-all frenzy; tearing clothes from the other, lips suckling, teeth clashing, spit smearing. Breaking apart for a moment, Tangerine growled, "I don't know if I love or hate tonight, huh? Seein' you with him, sayin' you'll marry me, comin' home - "
"Ace, Tangie? Baby?" You smirked, holding his cheeks to keep his face in front of yours, "Tonight's good - it's a good night. Yeah?"
He nodded, "Yeah."
"It's a good night - say it."
"A good night - great night."
"Great fuckin' night," you agreed, "now, I need you to fuck me before I spontaneously combust - "
Aaron's mouth was on yours before the words were fully formed. You gasped, holding on tightly, encouraging his tongue to tangle with yours as the night's emotions overtook you both in a searing heat of passion. His hands planted on your hips and began guiding your movements in slow, languid strokes over his growing bulge you were seated on.
With a small growl, Tangerine pulled back only to flip you over; laying your back to the cushions so he could hover over you, his hips grinding between your spread legs. "Mine," he grit, licking into your mouth as he pushed his cock directly into your moistening center, "all mine. Hear me? All fucking mine - you won't ever be with another man. Yeah?"
You weakly whimpered, nodding; his teeth catching your bottom lip and pulling. Your breast was palmed by a hot and heavy hand; gasping when Tangie pinched your nipple through the fabric of your dress.
"Nah, nah, nah," Tan grumbled, "wanna hear you say it, baby. Need to hear it."
Boldly, you reached out to rub the heel of your palm into his leaking member, managing to speak against his lips, "I'm all yours, Aaron. Never anyone else's."
"Yeah?" He grit.
"Yeah," you nodded, giving a flex of your hand that made his shoulders stiffen, "and no other man will know me - nor will I know another man. It's you and me."
"About fuckin' time; ain't never lettin' you go again, baby," he breathed, taking both wrists in his to pin over your head. "Now... Let me make up for this past year."
Ms. Roberts wore noise canceling headphones the entire night and began researching new apartment buildings available for move-in ASAP.
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Dawn broke, filling the room with a warm, bright light that accentuated the smoke wafting from Aaron's mouth. Neither of you got any sleep; exhausted in the best way possible, laid in bed, your head on his shoulder with arms bent to mindlessly twiddle together in the air.
"Remember that first retreat your company sent employees on?" Aaron asked softly, his other hand flicking his cigarette ash into a nearby ashtray.
"Hm... The one to Cancún?"
"Yeah."
"The one I missed 'cause we had a 48-hour romp?"
Tangerine laughed slightly, "That's the one."
"What about it?"
"Just... Laying here made me think of it. How fucked-out you were, how you missed your damn plane."
"You made me miss it!"
"That sounds accusatory."
You grinned when he lowered the cigarette to your lips, letting you puff it before pulling away. On exhale, you reminded, "You're the one who couldn't cut me a damn break."
"Since when do you want me to go easy on this pussy? Huh?"
With a snicker, you mused, "When you're whiskey-drunk and I'm drinking champagne?"
Tangie paused, then nodded, "Yeah, all right, that's fair. Whiskey dick ain't a joke, love."
You hummed and turned on your side into him, hiking your leg over his hips; snuggling into his warmth, new angle allowing you to gaze up at him. His arm laid around you in a secure hold, the other lazily smoking. You added, "Neither is being champagne drunk, makes me queazy."
"Probably not the best combination for fucking, huh?"
"I don't recommend it."
Aaron was quiet a moment, inhaling toxic smoke with a hiss through his teeth, "Bet they got champagne on them planes to Cancún."
"Bet they got champagne for other destinations, too," you teased. "Besides, why do you care? You're banned from popping bottles."
"Huh? Since when - why?"
"Since you sprayed me with a bottle that cost more than $3,000 USD!"
"If I can't spray my girl in luxury, what the fuck is this all for?" He smirked, looking down at you fondly.
"That bottle was meant to shmooze the German Ambassador!"
"Well, someone should've put a label on it!" You laughed his name, feeling his arm tighten. He tacked on, "Y'know, I gotta admit, just doesn't feel real yet."
"Hmm?"
"You... Back in my arms, in our bed - our home," he gave a great big deep sigh.
"It'll get real when people know we're back together."
"Is it wrong I want it to just be us for a bit? Private, intimate, just being together without everyone's outside influence or opinion?"
You smiled softly, "No, it's not wrong... I'd be lying if I said I didn't want the same."
"Then how about we catch a flight outta here?"
"Excuse me?"
"Yeah, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon," he beamed, suddenly struck with renewed vigor; positively radiating with excitement. You pulled off his chest in time for him to sit up, insisting, "Let's do it all again, baby. Let's catch a flight, change the weather to celebrate us promising forever."
"Tangie, baby, what're you talking about? We can't just up and leave - "
"Why not?"
"We have jobs! Or at least, I have a job with a consistent schedule."
"Oh, c'mon, doll, don't think too hard - let's go, let's catch a flight somewhere warm and sunny."
"You're not gonna let this go, are you?"
Tangerine shrugged, "Not likely. Can think of it as some engagement celebration - but just between us. I mean, it's never gonna be 'just us' again, you know?"
With a sigh, you agreed, "All right... Let's go."
"All right?"
"Yeah, all right, fine."
"Yeah? All right? Fine?"
"Oh, fuck about - don't parrot me, Aaron!"
He chuckled with a grin so wide, you wondered how it didn't split his face in two. Your fiancé playfully dropped onto your front; jostling the bed, arms planted on either side of you to keep his weight balancd while dotting rapid kisses around your face.
When satisfied, he pulled back and all but bounced out of bed while encouraging, "Let's go, c'mon!"
"Baby, wait - "
"You grab the passports, I'll pack for us!"
You paused to watch him rush into the walk-in closet, laughing and muttering as you climbed out of bed, "I'm gonna be in questionable clothing this whole vacation, aren't I?" There was a fond smile on your face.
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requesting rules and masterlist
Bullet Train masterlist
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doki-doki-imagines · 1 year ago
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Hi! If requests are still open can i request mk1 men with an angel reader? Thanks!
author note: Earthrealm guys for my own sainty🫡
Johnny Cage: -"Have you fallen from Heaven? Cuz' you are an angel." "It's exactly what happened." "…Seriously? We should totally make-" "No." -The man is so curious. -He flirts here and there, but mostly, he just wants to know how angels work and how it is up there. -Maybe some juicy info will slip, and Johnny will be able to make a movie out of it…
Kenshi Takahashi: -When everybody told him you are an angel, Kenshi thought you were just a nice person. -When Johnny told him you are an angel, Kenshi thought you were also beautiful. -For sure, Kenshi never thought of feeling feathers when you protected him during a fight. -"So you are an angel." He says, breathless. "Yeah, nobody told you?" -"Will my sins be forgiven?" "My Lord welcomes every sinner seeking redemption."
Raiden: -Literal angel meets metaphorical angel. -Every time you two meet in the same room, you make it shine for how nice and good you both are. -You are both so sweet that Lao swears that some of his teeth rooted. -"Can I touch them?" "The wings?" Raiden nods. -Best experience ever: 10/10. It felt like caressing a cub and heart is relaxed better than any medicine could ever do.
Kung Lao: -"You are wayyy too nice." "I'll take it as a compliment." -He teases you restlessly, Lao wanna see the angel snap back at him. -If only he knew what you went through, he'd understand that his chances are less than zero. -The real surprise will be when you'll tease him. -"You are so cute when you blush, Lao." "????" -He is going to get you back for this.
Liu Kang: -"Do not be afraid." "Did you just steal my line?" -You are not the first angel he has seen, but it's been so long since he has been in contact with one that he'll try to keep you as long as possible on Earthrealm. -"Your presence has been healing for everyone. They hope you'll stay here for much longer." "Aren't you sure that "they" isn't just you, Liu Kang?" -Seeing him choke on his tea was a real sight, almost heavenly.
Geras: -It's not the first time Geras meets an angel, so he won't be surprised by you. -He likes to chit-chat, tho! You are both so old you for sure have a lot of stories to tell to each other. -Geras appreciates your help keeping the timelines safe, so he'll always be ready to give you a hand if you need it.
Bi-Han: -"What should I be afraid of? You are nothing more than a mythological chicken." Shows angelic true form "…fuck" -He won't treat you with any respect unless you defeat him in a fight. -Your true form will haunt him in his nightmares, tho. -"Repent Bi-Han." -Maybe an angel is the push he needs.
Kuai Liang: -He is so respectful to you, bowing every time he greets you. -Wouldn't mind training with you, and don't you dare go easy on him! -"Are my flames as hot as hell ones?" "Dear, I'm sorry, but I'm not a fallen angel. For sure, your smile is bright as our light." -Congrats! You made Liang blush, shy smile on his face making him uncharacteristically cute.
Tomas Vrbada: -"Have you fallen from Hea-" "Sorry Tomas, Johnny already tried it." "Damn it!" -Tomas looks so sweet that he reminds you of your brothers. -Too bad that then you remember his work… -He is really curious so you'll be asked a lot about your past and family. -"Are my mom and sister fine?" "I'm sorry Tomas I can't reveal anything. But relax, they are in good hands."
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alpaca-clouds · 1 year ago
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Let me just be a mythology geek for a minute...
So... Persephone...
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So, Stray Gods establishes that the gods for the most part do not remember their pasts too well. Because some knowledge gets lost each time the eidolon passes on.
To me this kinda makes for a fun option, though. Because... I am too much of a mythology geek not to look at this from the perspective of the development of the mythology. ESPECIALLY when it comes to Persephone.
You see, Persephone as a goddess is older than Hades. As in: Myths about her have been around for a much longer time than myths about Hades. Originally Persephone and Demeter were worshiped as "the two queens" by some old cults. We do not know much in detail what that worship entailed, but we know that for some people in the very, very early days of these gods, the two in their duality were very, very important.
You also might know that Persephone has the alternative name of Kore. Well, Persephone translated means Bringer Of Destruction, while Kore just means "the girl". And given that there is power in names and what not it is believed that the name Persephone was not spoken because people were afraid of summoning her. (Just as later on the name Hades was not spoken, with him being referred to as Ago, Aner or Laos.)
Now, the name Hades translates to "the Unseen". And... that brings me to one big thing.
Mythologically speaking Hades was originally not the god of the underworld or the dead. Again, he as a god came on fairly late and originally he was probably just an aspect of Poseidon, that after a while became worshiped as an individual deity. But even as such... If we look at the "three godly brothers" they are in fact God of the Sky, God of the Sea, and God of the Earth. Hades as a god is fairly new, but his association with the underworld and him being the king of the dead is even newer...
What I am getting at: There is a good chance that it was in fact Persephone who originally was the Goddess of Dead and Queen of the Underworld - with her and Demeter as the "two Queens" taking a kinda Yin-Yang theme of Demeter as a goddess of life and Persephone as a goddess of death.
Because let me make one thing clear: Persephone (you know, BRINGER OF MOTHERFUCKING DISTRUCTION) was never a goddess of spring. She just became associated with spring through the entire Hades and Persephone myth, with her returning to Demeter being the reason for spring. But she, as a goddess, is not a bringer of spring.
So, why am I rambling about this here?
Well, because if we took in this information... There is a good chance that at some point too long ago for them to remember Hades and Zeus usurped the throne of the underworld from Persephone, who was originally the queen.
God darn it, I need to write a fic about this, don't I?
EDIT: I started writing it. Here you go.
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telomeke · 1 year ago
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THE SIGN EPISODE 3 – NONG KHAI, NAGA FIREBALLS AND THE DANCE OF ADVERSARIES
Only watched Ep.3 last night and it was a trip in more ways than one; this is another one of those BLs where the hand of the Tourism Authority can be seen heavily pulling the strings, and in this episode it was plugging for Nong Khai – which is especially relevant to the naga mythology underlying The Sign.
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The province of Nong Khai is far to the northeast of Thailand, separated from Laos by the mighty Mekong River; its capital city is also called Nong Khai.
Nong Khai is famous for a number of festivals, including the Rocket Festival and the Naga Fireball Festival. The Rocket Festival is referenced in the subtitles at Ep.3 [2/4] 14.41 but this is incorrect, because Tharn's grandmother mentions the date as "the 15th day of the 11th waxing moon" (the Rocket Festival takes place earlier in the year).
This date (a full moon night) is actually the Naga Fireball Festival, when the phenomenon of fireballs launched from the Mekong is supposedly at its peak. (There is as yet no formal scientific explanation for the fireballs, and locals believe they are spat out by the great naga or Phaya Naak who resides in the Mekong.)
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‌This is of course the same festival that Phaya, Tharn, Yai and Sand go to watch at Ep.3 [3/4] 2.18 .
And this date (วันออกพรรษา/wan ok phansa) is also the last day of the three-month Buddhist Rains Retreat (พรรษา/phansa, sometimes also called Buddhist Lent). The first day of Phansa (in the eighth month), marks the official start of the rainy season – Phansa is the Thai version of the Buddhist celebration known more generally as Vassa elsewhere, and the word is derived from the Sanskrit varsha (which means rain).
In The Sign this celebration of Phansa is significant because the word is a cognate with the วรรษา/wansa of Tharn's formal first name Wansa and the name of his previous female naga self Wansarat, which are both also derived from the Sanskrit varsha (see this link here for more elaboration). 👀
Anyway, this means that kid Phaya was actually drawn to the Naga Fireball Festival (not the Rocket Festival) and was presumably called into the Mekong by a naga. And he was saved from drowning by a reincarnated naga (Tharn) on the last day of the season that shares Tharn's name.
And thereafter, Phaya would always dream of Wansarat on the date of the Naga Fireball Festival (the 15th day of the waxing moon in the 11th month, also the last day of Phansa/Wansa).
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This is why his visit back to Nong Khai coincided with the festivities we see onscreen – he was there to investigate these links to the date and festival.
So far The Sign has been fairly faithful in its visual nods to the naga and garuda mythology that underpins the narrative. There's been a lot of blue and green (very marine colors) associated with nagas Tharn and Wansarat. And there are references to red and the element of fire calling out to garuda Phaya. This scene is an example:
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In the scene above the red light on one side is contrasted with the blue-green one on the other, and mirrors the dance of the fiery garuda and the water-dwelling naga. Phaya has just been rescued from the Mekong by Tharn, and he is shivering in a blue-green t-shirt (which is the naga's color, not his).
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(above) Sparks erupt behind the garuda Phaya as he seeks to recover his life-force after his near-drowning; the light on his person (as he is facing naga Tharn) is of a cooler tint though
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(above) Naga Tharn is also sopping wet but totally at ease; he is also bathed in warm tones as he faces the flaming presence of garuda Phaya
This scene after Phaya's near-drowning is also one of several where we see a swing (e.g., Ep.3 [2/4] 17.02, Ep.3 [2/4] 19.02, Ep.3 [3‌/4] 10.03 and Ep.3 [3‌/4] 11.07). I may be over-reaching here, but for Thai people this may be calling to mind the Giant Swing in front of Bangkok's Wat Suthat, which was once used in an annual Hindu Brahmin ceremony (now discontinued) that was held to mark the moment when the nagas of mythology abandoned their mountain stronghold on land (their coils maintaining stability) and moved instead to their permanent, watery homeland.
Noting that the nagas are shapeshifters, the green-eyed Wansarat enticing Phaya into the water is also likely to be a malevolent naga that has assumed Wansarat's form, seeking to drown Phaya (we've seen glowing green eyes before, on the naga that Phaya saw when he struggled with the Ep.1 water challenge, and also in the greenery of the garden at the bar/restaurant where the boys go to drink).
And in another nod at the naga/garuda conflict, when the abbot Luangpor lights two candles at Ep.3 [2/4] 28.36, the rumbling stormclouds outside (that are harbingers of rain) promptly extinguish the flames before speaking ominously with him.
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Nagas, because of their association with all things water, are also custodians and dispensers of rain in Thai mythology. Thus the voice that speaks to Luangpor from the clouds must be that of a vengeful naga, and he has underscored his displeasure with garuda Phaya by snuffing out the flames of the candle (fire being associated with garudas in The Sign).
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So one more little salute to the naga and garuda can possibly be read in the matching shirts that Phaya and Tharn don when they visit Wat Phra That Bung Puan at Ep.3 [3‌/4] 11.13:
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The warm tones (garuda colors) of the matching shirts contrast with the blue-greens (naga colors) of their shorts/jeans. Meanwhile, the swirling graphics on their tops are likely a reference to the naga fireballs, which reminds us that even though the nagas and garudas are supposed to be at odds, the fireballs are one area of overlap with the flames of the garuda – a kinship also echoed by the matchy-matchy going on with the outfits here (and the premise that Tharn and Phaya are a forbidden but fated naga/garuda pairing). 😍
The culture of Nong Khai also explains why there is so much naga imagery in this episode – a lot of it is to do with the festival of the Mekong naga and its fireballs. But the garuda (Phaya's earlier incarnation) is still referenced in the visuals of Ep.3 – directly at Ep.3 [3‌/4] 15.08, but more indirectly elsewhere.
The many establishing shots of the temple finials called chofa (e.g., at Ep.3 [2/4] 8.19, Ep.3 [2/4] 19.53, Ep.3 [2/4] 23.10 and Ep.3 [3‌/4] 6.52) are actually a visual reference to the garuda:
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This kind of chofa (with the curved profile reminiscent of a raptor's beak) is called the pak kruut or garuda tip chofa. There are several other kinds, including a naga finial, but the ones we see here in the establishing shots of the abbot's temple are of the garuda type and are a sly, less in-your-face wink at the garuda (at least compared to the abundance of naga imagery).
Anyway the trip ends with Tharn attempting to distance himself from Phaya because he doesn't want to jinx another of his loved ones (although what that means for Yai and Sand seemed a little rude for Tharn to suggest! 🤣).
True to his naga form a lonely Tharn seeks refuge in the watery realm – his condo pool:
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But the flaming red swim briefs about his loins are in the color of the fiery garuda, and belie his divided loyalty.
So when Phaya goes to confront Tharn at the rooftop gym, the dance of the naga and garuda, historical enemies, goes into full swing. Unlike their other physical encounters down at sea level (e.g., the open water challenge of Ep.1 and the Mekong rescue) here garuda Phaya is up in the sky, as close to the sun as he can be, and here he's in his element.
And when the two tussle (as would be expected of a naga and garuda), of course it would be Phaya coming out on top. It's his realm, and his turn, after all:
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The naga and garuda are ever-present in The Sign. I'm sure there will be more of this to come!
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theartistaslisalee · 10 days ago
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This weekend in search for a little relief from the week full of tragedy caused by the greatest fire disasters in Los Angeles history I went to a brand new gaming convention in held at the downtown convention center. I had bought tickets for it a month in advance so that was one of the reasons I went, otherwise I probably would have just stayed home, but then it was a rare opportunity to meet the legendary players of the old Mortal Kombat era:
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From left- Daniel Pesina (the original Johnny Cage as well as most of the ninja characters like Sub Zero and Scorpion) his brother Carlos (original Raiden and fight choreographer for all of the MK games until MK11) and Anthony Marquez (the original Kung Lao and Fujin from MK Mythologies). They were the nicest and the most down to earth people I have the pleasure of talking to, and I even gave each of them a nice litttle gift:
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(Unfortunately I didn’t get a picture with Anthony but he did get his gift as well, which sadly did not keep a digital copy of, darn). I also came home with these cool autographed photos, one of them you might just recognize:
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And as if that wasn’t enough, I also met up with the voice of the new Scorpion, Daisuke Tsuji, who also voiced Jin Sakai in GHOST OF TSUSHIMA
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And yes I gave him the gift as well as you can see, and even reunited him with his little brother!
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(The signed Ghost of Tsushima art)
Understandably the crowd was pretty sparse considering the dire situation outside but it was a good way for some people to enjoy themselves, including myself, and find little relief from the grim times we are all living through right now. There were rows of free to play classic arcade games, some vendors and artists selling their merchs, which were pretty small considering this was a brand new con but one I’m hoping will soon pick up in the coming years, and there were even a cosplay contest that I actually watched parts of, though I didn’t stay to see the winner (unfortunately I cannot post here as there is a 10 image limit per post so let me continue into the new post…
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meiideryz · 9 months ago
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map to my heart.
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pairing: wong hendery x reader
length: 1.06k
tags: alternative universe, university/college au, friends to lovers, indirect confession, mutual attraction, tooth-rotting fluff, best friend! hendery, assistant librarian!reader, based on true experience.
note: i was inspired by a conversation i had with my ex-crush when i was with them in the library where our lesson on a subject took place
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"how well do you know your geography?" hendery's voice was gentle and low, keeping himself quiet in the back of the library with students who cannot be disrupted.
he watched you looking at the library globe before your eyes met with his. after finishing an activity that his professor had given him, he was able to freely look around, and there he saw you at the back with the globe you were spinning at a slow place. it was a fortunate meeting, knowing how well you often visit the library since you were an assistant in helping the librarian after all.
“do you know your geography?”
this time, you returned the same question to him, and of course he knew. he just wanted to test how good you were, and with a smile on his face, he responded. “of course, would you like a challenge?”
“i'm down,” hendery loved how there was no hesitation in your tone, and he especially loved your competitiveness when it comes to interests you both have in common. “only because i can totally win over you.”
“oh? really?” his hand made its way to touch the globe, preparing himself for a little game of spotting the country. “give me a name, then.”
“laos.” you said, and he smiled at you.
“easy,” he began spinning the globe in front of him, looking for the location you had asked him to find. “if you know countries from asean very well, then there's no difficulty in searching for it.”
pausing the sphere, hendery's forefinger pointed to the land just above thailand before he gave you a victorious grin. “see? now try looking for sri lanka for me.”
he heard you let out a huff, watching you already turning the spherical ball, and when you showed him that you had already spotted it, he gave a fake sound of a terrible whine which almost made you laugh. covering your mouth with your palm, your other hand made its way to his arm with a light smack. both of you suppressed a laugh, knowing how much they could get in trouble if they ever disturbed the library, with him being thrown out and you enduring another scolding session from the librarian.
“you really should stop making weird noises if you don't want to be thrown out from here.” giggling in a whisper, he couldn't help but fall in love with the way you beamed at him.
hendery was so, so in love with you.
he moved to stand beside you with his head leaning closer to your ear, saying, “shoot me a name, sweetie.” 
you hummed, pretending to think for a little long time. gazing over your hand ghostly touching his knuckles, the little butterflies flew around inside his stomach. the fingertips of your hands running over his then the surface of the globe before he heard you utter out, “cyprus.” 
nodding to your next challenge, he made his way to look thoroughly around the ball. a chuckle left his lips, feeling as if he was starting to sweat despite the cold breeze of the air-conditioned room. “maybe i’m reconsidering your knowledge on geography, after all.” your voice softly echoed in his ears. he wasn’t going to give up so easily for some country he wasn’t familiar with. 
continuing to search, he whispered to you, “from what i remember, it’s close to romania, am i right?” 
“close.”
hendery droned out a steady continuous sound, staring at the map of europe in front of him. if it was close to what he stated earlier, and the name sounds close to some greek mythology name. “then i'm guessing it would be near greece, so…”
forefinger gliding through the map, he eventually found cyprus below turkey. another victorious win, he smiled at you. “there.”
“you’re not as bad as i thought.” your compliment had earned him another good slap in the heart, and it would always make him do somersaults every time you do. with the way you look at him like that, with that contagious smile and laughter, he could never stop feeling things for you.
“okay, my turn.” you said, “give me a name.”
“show me…” hendery trailed off, his body moving backwards to face your back. watching you turn around, you let out a small gasp as you were taken aback when he caged you in between his arms. “hendery, what are you doing?”
“show me where the map to my heart is.” his voice was serious, and yet there was still a glint of delight in his tone. the smile never wiped off from his face while he stared into your eyes. sure, it was abrupt and unexpected, but he wasn't being playful in a way that would annoy you, and his seriousness was giving a turn.
“i…” now you were the one who was tongue-tied, and him being the patient person he was, he waited for you to respond. it was simple, if you reject him at this time and moment, he would respect that and back off this instant.
"the question is just simple," without wiping the smug off his face, he let out a fake yawn that is not loud enough to disturb the other students in the library at the front. "show me where it is." with the way he carefully and audibly emphasized each word, you started to laugh in such a nervous state.
"a-are you joking right now?"
"huh, what's that?" he brought his hand to his ear, pretending to not hear you despite being a short distance away from you. that smile of his never dropped.
“sweetie if you're just gonna stand there and stare at me then i might as well win this challange—”
“i think i know where it is.” you quickly uttered out, breaking your silence. he was curious to know what was on your mind, and so he crossed his arms against his chest, lips curling up to put up a smug look.
“really? i'm curious to see if you actually know it.”
“well, if i can remember, it starts from here…”
he observed the way your finger reached out to point your own chest where your heart is at rest before making out a line until your palm was against his chest to his beating heart. hendery sucked up a good amount of air at the contact, his gaze still never left yours.
“...to here.”
©MEIIDERYZ 2024. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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tiredfox64 · 9 months ago
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Hello !! I was wondering if I could request a selkie! Reader x Raiden, where they are allies, but raiden doesn't know that the reader is a selkie and while training together and Raiden finds the readers seal skin and the reader tried to seduce him to get it back. Raiden has feelings for the reader and falls into it and ends up confessing to the reader, who then explain the situation??
Smooth and Selkie
Prior notes: Ah yes selkies, the original furries…I have a fear of the leopard seal from Happy Feet. Those things bellow or something.
Pairing: Raiden x Selkie! Afab reader
Warnings ‼️: WE’LL CARRY ON
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You have traveled far from your usual harbors and shores. It’s fun to travel to new places and it’s even more fun to see new people. One swim got you all the way to China near the Fengjian Village. A young man with a straw hat caught your eye. Oh how badly you wanted to meet him.
But you can’t meet him when you can only make some grunting sounds. Smacking your stomach won’t bring the right attention to you. Making a banana shape won’t do it either but you look cute at least. Yeah, keep rocking back and forth you look silly. You had to wait for a full moon, then you had the chance to meet that young, handsome man.
A full moon came and you were able to shed your seal skin. Your beautiful figure was being appreciated by the moonlight. Your voice was sweeter than a siren’s call. All you need is some proper clothes and you can finally go out to see that lovely man that the villagers call Raiden. Guess you are staying in Fengjian longer than you expected.
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From the beginning Raiden was tempted by you. How couldn’t he be tempted? You were just so pretty and he could listen to you talk for hours. Something about your voice made him feel warm in his stomach and heart.
The kindness you both showed each other would make any passerby’s tooth ache from how sweet it all was. Damn near gave Kung Lao a stomach ache as if he ate too much candy.
You were fascinated by his fighting skills and his care for gardening. Raiden was fascinated by your knowledge of multiple places and your love for the sea. He could sit there and listen to you talk for hours about which fishes are the tastiest and different sort of Celtic mythology.
Soon enough you felt the desire to train and learn from him which he was happy to hear. Why not learn to fight, it will do you good. It also allowed you more time with Raiden.
Just remember to keep your seal skin safe and nearby. You can’t risk anyone getting their hands on it. Not even Raiden.
Usually you left your seal skin in a bag or hidden in a bush that was nearby. And you did the same today. Except your bag fell over and your seal skin was peeking out. It’s hard to miss the soft, spotty-patterned material. But it’s okay! Maybe you can hide it again once you and Raiden are finished training. If you actually figure out what happened before it’s too late.
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By the end of training you two were beat. Huffing and puffing as if you two just had—I’m sorry I won’t finish that statement.
Even when you were a little sweaty Raiden saw you as so beautiful. Your smile never faltered. You were just happy to spend time with him on such a nice sunny day.
“You’re doing excellent. I’d say you’re doing better than my sister. Oh but don’t tell her please.” Raiden said in a joking manner.
You giggled softly, “You’re too kind, Raiden. I’m going to get some water, you coming?”
“No, I think I’ll just sit here for a bit. I just need to catch my breath.” He answered.
You nodded before walking off to get yourself some water. Raiden stayed sitting on the floor, basking in the sunlight while appreciating the nature around him. Then something caught his eye. Something white was poking out from the bushes. Oh how strange.
Raiden got up and started walking over to investigate. When he got close he saw that it was a furry material. He looked at it with a perplexed expression as he reached down and grabbed it.
Your seal skin felt so soft to him. The pattern on it was unique. Though he has no idea what animal this came from. It doesn’t feel fake so he knew it was real. Before he could even notice the flippers that were part of the skin you were already back after getting a drink of water. Your eyes widened as you see what Raiden had in his hands.
Oh no
This didn’t seem good. You were always warned about men taking your seal skin. They will keep it and never return it and you will be forced to stay with them. You don’t want to be forced to love. Raiden is a nice guy but you’re still scared he might know what he is capable of now that he has your seal skin. You had to get it back. The only way you know how to do that is by seducing him. Your heart was pounding as you made your way over to him.
“What are you doing over here, silly? I thought you wanted to rest.” You said in a voice that was as sweet as honey.
You placed your hand on his face and made him turned towards you. You already got a reaction out of him. You saw his shocked expression while feeling his cheek start to warm up. This is the first time you ever touched him in a loving manner.
“I-I just saw this thing and I…” He was stumped.
“You shouldn’t be getting distracted by silly things, Raiden. Though you do look cute when you’re curious.”
That was a genuine compliment and Raiden felt that. His heart just did a backflip hearing that. To hear that you thought he was cute made him so happy. Just look at that dopey smile in his face.
“How about you put down that seal skin and spend some time with me?”
He was about to do what you said but paused once he realized you said seal skin.
“Seal skin? How do you know this is a seal skin?” He asked as he went back to looking at it.
You panicked and made him face you about before he could see the flippers, “It was just a wild guess haha.”
You were getting close to Raiden without even realizing it. Your chest was pressed against his arm. You were looking up at him with a panicked smile on your face but he overlooked that fact. His brain was being fried due to the close contact.
Don’t mess this up again. You have him wrapped around your finger. Push it.
“Just let it go, you don’t need to hold onto that thing.”
You started bumping your nose against his. It’s a way that you show affection. And he is really affected by this affection. You could hear his breathing grow heavier. You seemed even more adorable to him than you were before. You’re really putting in the work to get your seal skin back.
Raiden’s heart might just explode. He didn’t know you liked him that much. He thought he missed some signals beforehand. He would feel stupid if he did.
“If you love me you’ll let the seal skin go. Don’t you love me, Raiden?”
Love. Love! LOVE! OH MY GOSH YOU DO LOVE HIM.
“Yes! Yes! I do love you!” Raiden was so ecstatic that it surprised you.
“I thought you would never ask. I didn’t want to push any boundaries. I don’t know what made you start flirting with me now but I’m very glad you decided to do it. You know you didn’t have to do all that though, you already won my heart the moment I saw you.”
Finally, he dropped your seal skin. He immediately hugged you which prevented you from grabbing your skin. You were also in shock. One, you didn’t hide the fact that you were trying to seduce him. Two, he thought this was genuine.
You feel so bad now. You need to spill the truth and tell him what you were doing.
“Uh, Raiden, I need to tell you something very important.”
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Oof, that was difficult.
You told Raiden the truth about you. You told him that you are a selkie and that he was holding onto your seal skin. You explained your worries and how you were just trying to get it back from him.
He understands but he did get bummed out that you weren’t actually trying to flirt with him. You were doing it out of desperation. He apologized for worrying you. You apologized for misjudging him on his intentions.
“So that means you don’t actually like me.” He said it in such a somber tone it felt like your heart was being choked after hearing it.
He looked like a sad rejected puppy who didn’t get adopted by a loving family. He felt embarrassed too since he admitted he likes you.
“No! I do! I really do like you! Please believe me, Raiden.” You practically tackled him to the ground trying to proved that you did like him.
You would never think about breaking his heart. It would kill you. You came on the land just to be closer to him. You’re worried that you have ruined it all and now he won’t like you. You didn’t tell him the truth and you deceived him. How will he ever forgive you?!
“Thank the elder gods.” He let out a sigh of relief. Clearly, he forgives you. He’s happy that your feelings were true.
So what if you’re a selkie. Won’t change the fact that you have a lovable personality that brings Raiden closer to you. If anything it makes you even more unique to him. Who you truly are won’t change the fact that he will love you still, human or seal.
After notes: I love listening to seals make noises. Listen to these stupid idiots. Look at that banana form. Glorious creatures of nature.
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crazysaru99 · 1 year ago
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''Chang kidnapped Jake's egg for the Dark Dragon, and the Xaolin Dragons became involved due to a prophecy (which they misinterpreted) about the imbalance of the magical and mundane communities. It turns out that they managed to defeat Chang but she flees without the egg with the help of Lao Shi (She had arrived in America) but they decide that Lao Shi's family will take care of this child and he becomes the first dragon born in America. . .''
Inspiration in ''Family of dragons'' @alexanderzazilart
Is a Crossover AmDrag/Xiaolin
Chase's and Jack's form dragons are longer that canon (And Chase dragon is most oriental and conservant your caracteristic)
Because for Dark Dragon is bigger
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''Headcanon AmDrag: There are 2 types of dragons, normal and corrupt, the corrupt are those that were not born with the ability to transform into dragons, but are transformed by curses or by ''illegal means'', they are characterized by their large size and ''immortality'', they are given the bad reputation of dragons in mythology.''
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mydisenchantedeulogy · 2 years ago
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Lost in Paradise || Buddha
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A/n: this is my first time writing for this character, so I hope he's not too OOC. I started watching ROR when the first season came out, so of course I was going to watch the second season. Then Buddha came on screen and immediately I was hooked. So, this OS is the product of that.
On another note, while I was writing this a story idea came to mind. I sort of want to toy more with the red cord aspect and have the reader come to the realm of the Gods and live with their significant other. It's a basic idea, but I like it.
Please pay attention to the warning tags and please enjoy it.
Warning(s): red cord/soulmate (via Yue-Lao), mentions/implications of death, fear of the unknown, make-outs, intense sex, fainting (via overstimulation), oral (m), female reader, 4,444 words.
No Minors Allowed!!
How did it come to this? Mankind's last stand against the Gods. The moment you heard about Ragnarok, a tournament pitting the Humans against the Gods, you knew mankind didn't stand a chance. For a soul, this also meant that you too would perish; it honestly is a shame.
Sitting in the stands in the area, you stare in dismay at a large screen that displays the matches. So far, no human can best the Gods. Two rounds in, things are looking grim for mankind. Things could honestly not get any worse in your opinion.
"Oh wow! You have a soulmate cord!" A voice beside you exclaims.
You raise a curious brow.
"Pardon me?"
What does he mean by cord? The man points down and upon looking, you notice a silken cord around your finger. When did this get there? Following it with your eyes, you see that it fades in and out through the crowd, heading up to the terrace at the top of the stadium.
"This is the first time I've ever seen it," you mention in confusion.
The man beside you hums.
"How strange. You aren't meant to see the cord. I was a scholar in my former life and I have to wonder if Yue-Lao put this on you."
Yue-Lao? Is this the name of a God?
"Who is Yue-Lao?" You ask.
"He's a God of marriage and love in Chinese mythology. He often appears as an old man under the moon and unites with a silken cord all predestined couples, after which nothing can prevent their union," the scholar answers.
There's no way.
"I don't understand. I never saw this until today and when my soul came here, I'm sure I didn't have it," you mention.
"Could it be that you are destined to be with a God," the man utters, almost as though he's speaking more to himself.
What sense did this make?
"The Gods want to end humanity. Why would I be a match for a God?" You ask.
The man beside you hums.
"It's probable but I have no idea why. Have you heard the story of Eros and Psyche?"
You have. But this is a different story. Something is strange about it. You shouldn't be able to see the cord. Perhaps it is a God you are tethered to. But now isn't the time to care.
There is no way you can focus on the round, however. Curiosity is eating you alive. You take a deep breath and stand, walking toward the stairs. It's a terrible idea but you want to know who you are connected to and why. You pass humans and gods alike on your way down the terrace. The cord leads you to a gorgeous garden room with glass panels; one with an enormous fountain. You stare at it in awe for a moment until the cord tightens with a snap. A moment later the soft sound of footsteps echoes around the room.
Unsure of what to do, you dart behind a marble column as the footsteps grow louder, soon coming to a stop. Your heart pounds in your chest as an air of nervousness surrounds you. Slowly you peek around the marble column and see a muscular man standing near the fountain. His back is to you but you can see that he is wearing a tank top with robes tied around his waist, wrapping back to his hands. Who is this man? The cord seems to connect to him as it does you, so you know he is bonded to you, but he doesn't look familiar at all. The clothes he is wearing are akin to the ones seen in South Asia, but that is all you can tell.
For a moment you stare at him, until to your horror, he peeks over his shoulder in your direction. You dart behind the column and stand there, hoping that he didn't see you. Once a minute passes, you peek back around to see that he is gone. A sigh of relief pours from your mouth, but strangely the cord is still tight; it seems to wrap around the column to the other side. You raise a curious brow, turning to notice that the god in question is leaning his arm against the column staring at you with curious blue eyes hidden behind rectangle-shaped glasses. His hair, which you had thought before was blond is light green; the sides are black.
"Hmm. I thought someone was staring at me," he utters as he removes a light blue lollipop from his mouth.
Your face heats up in embarrassment and you avert your eyes to the cute bunny with the eyepatch printed on his tank top.
"I'm sorry. I just... was looking for someone."
To emphasize your point, not sure what sort of god he is, you raise your hand showing him the red cord. It takes him a moment to understand but once he does he snorts and raises his hand.
"Look at that." He pauses to toy with the cord. "The old man has a sense of humor."
Who is he referring to? Yue-Lao? You've never met the Chinese Love God; you have no idea what he's like or why he'd tether you to someone let alone another God.
If this was his idea of a joke, it wasn't funny.
"Do you know how to remove these? Or where Yue-Lao is? Perhaps he can remove them."
"You want to have them removed?" The God asks.
You narrow your eyes suspiciously and nod in agreement to his question.
"Do you not?"
"Hmm. I mean... We don't know one another. And unless the old man did this as a joke, we're tethered for a reason," he replies.
He wants to know you. Is he serious?
"I'm a human," you state in an obvious tone.
"I hadn't noticed," the god retorts with a grin.
He has a sense of humor. At least he isn't like some gods you have read about. You hum in thought, staring at the cord.
"I reckon we should find Yue-Lao and see about these before Ragnarok is over."
The God tossed up his hands in defense.
"Yes, boss."
Fearing that you might have insulted him, you frown.
"I'm sorry. I just... Don't know what else to do. I never asked for your name and that's rude of me."
The man in question knits his brows.
"You don't know me? I'm Buddha."
Your eyes widen.
"T-there's no way."
"Pretty sure I am," Buddha utters with a hum.
You shake your head.
"That's not it."
This has to be a joke. You've always compared the gods to celebrities; there are A-listers and B-listers; the major gods and the minors.
"You're an A-lister," you utter.
Why are you tethered to an A-lister? Let alone a God. You're not even someone important. Or at least you don't feel like you are.
A hand on your shoulder brings you into reality, sending a pleasant warmth throughout your body. You've never felt such an intense sensation. Is it because of Buddha? Or the bond you have with me? Your tense shoulders relax and you turn your attention to him.
"You have a name, don't you?" The God asks.
You nod and utter it.
Buddha grins in response; his sharp canines make your heart thump faster for some reason.
"Now, while I agree we should look for the old man, the 3rd round of Ragnarok began a moment ago, so--" He pauses to slide his arm around your shoulders. "Why not take the time to get to know one another? I'll even share a lollipop with you."
"Um... Okay," you retort.
So long as this doesn't get awkward.
He leads you over to the fountain and motions for you to sit, resting on the basin beside you. For a moment neither of you speaks; you watch the silken cord around his finger bob as he messes with it. The brief touch he had allowed you lingers on your skin; you hate to admit it, but you miss it.
"Any idea how we came to be tethered, my Lord?" You ask.
Buddha snorts and then laughs.
"My Lord?"
"How should I address you then?" You ask, narrowing your eyes in annoyance. It's not like you've ever spoken to a God; you don't know how to address one. "Because honestly, calling you Buddha is a bit uncomfortable."
The said man raises a brow.
"Is it? I suppose for a human it might be. Hmm. I've been known for a lot of things. Gautama, Gotama, Buddha Shakyamuni. You can call me whatever you like."
Does he honestly not mind?
"Is Shaka OK?" You ask.
He glances at you and grins.
"So, you do know me."
"A little here and there," you admit. "Your name is widely known throughout mankind. But to be honest, you aren't what I expected."
As soon as this leaves your lips, you immediately regret it.
"I'm sorry. I­­––"
"What were you expecting?" Buddha asks. He doesn't seem annoyed or angry, just curious.
Your face heats up in embarrassment. There's no point in lying to him, you reckon.
"I've always heard that the Buddha looked like a typical shaved man and in your old age, you are described as having a stooped body."
"Are you upset?"
You shake your head no and avert your eyes.
"I think you're extremely handsome, hot even."
It's silent for a moment, then the lollipop he had been sucking on appears in your line of sight. You widen your eyes in shock, peering over at the blue-eyed god.
"Want a lick?"
Your face heats up.
"You... had that in your mouth."
Buddha grunts.
"I don't have anything, and besides... we're tethered, remember?"
"No offense, but that doesn't mean I want to swap spit with you. It was a generous offer though," you state.
He hums and slides the lollipop back into his mouth; the sound of it clicking against his canines makes you snort. It almost seems like he's pouting for some reason.
"I'll try one you haven't licked on," you mention.
"No way. Not after you insulted me," Buddha states.
The grin on his face indicates that he's not serious however; you are relieved. For a God, he isn't bad. You are thankful that if it had to be a God, it is him.
An echo of cheers erupts from the stadium and you hear Heimdall announce the victor of the 3rd round. Is it over already? Your eyes widen in shock.
"He did it... He won."
Kojiro Sasaki beat a God. Perhaps there is some hope for humanity.
The loud crunch of a lollipop draws your attention to Buddha. He spits the stick onto the ground and stands having a serious look on his face. You frown. Is there something wrong? Perhaps it is because a God had died.
"Zeus isn't gonna take this lightly," he utters.
You imagine not. Poseidon is his brother. And now he is dead. It's a double whammy of a situation.
"Well... It's about time we got you back to the stadium." Buddha pauses to fake a yawn. "I'll search for Yue-Lao."
This is a shame; you want to know what reason he had to tether you to Buddha. You agree with a nod despite the frown on your face. A hand appears in your line of sight and you raise a brow, turning your eyes to Buddha; an easy-going grin appears on his face.
"I'll walk you back."
"I appreciate it," you mention with a smile, taking his hand.
For some reason, this feels right.
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You hardly know what to think about the 4th match or who to root for. The representative for the Humans is a well-known murderer, Jack the Ripper, whilst the Gods have Hercules on their side. It strikes you as odd that a man known for killing humans is representing them, but if his win gives the Humans a chance then there isn't much you can argue about.
It's a strange match is all.
Feeling the cord around your finger jerk, you glance down at it, curious as to what Buddha is doing. Perhaps he's looking for Yue-Lao himself. He had parted ways with you at the top of the stadium, haven took you to your section unbeknownst to the Humans around you.
The 4th match started soon after.
You sigh and lean back in your chair, watching the screen in front of you. So much is happening at once but your thoughts are on the attractive God that you are tethered to. You never got to ask him what he plans to do with you should Yue-Lao choose to leave the silken cord around your finger. It's a lot to consider, honestly; a lot you're not sure you are ready for.
A motion from the corner of your eye draws your attention to the scholar beside you, his name you are still unsure of. He looks shocked almost, pointing his finger toward something or someone past you. Raising a brow, you peek over your shoulder and notice a familiar God standing at the end of the aisle watching the screen.
You stand and quickly saunter over to him.
"Shaka?" His eyes turn to you as you call his name. "What are you doing here?"
Buddha grins.
"I came to get you. Are you ready?"
Did he find Yue-Lao?
"Of course."
Leading you away from the stadium, you silently walk beside him to a nearby hill outside the arena. The scenery is stunning, the most captivating thing you have ever seen. But where is Yue-Lao?
"Are we meeting him here?" You ask in confusion.
Buddha sits at the base of a large Bodhi tree and hums.
"Meeting who?"
Did he already forget?
"Yue-Lao," you answer with a sigh.
"I haven't looked for him," Buddha mentions with a yawn.
Is he serious? Your jaw tightens.
"Are you not even a little curious?"
"Hmm. No. Even as a joke we're bound for a reason. Besides... I'm not bothered by it," Buddha answers.
Your eyes widen in shock. How can he not be bothered? You are a human. He may have been at one time too, but the era of mankind is at an end. With an uneasy sigh, you sit beside him, looking out at the arena in the distance. The warm gentle breeze sways your hair and little by little you relax.
"I'm sorry about Poseidon. Hearing that a God was struck down by a human can't be easy," you utter.
Or lifting for that matter. It must have struck--
A boisterous laugh rings out from the God beside you as he tosses his head back.
"You're hilarious."
"I was being sincere," you argue.
Buddha hums and tilts his head toward you.
"There's no reason to apologize. He knew what he was signing up for... And honestly, he underestimated the Humans."
Reaching between the robes tied at his waist, he pulled out a lollipop.
"The same may happen to me when it's my turn," he continues, popping the sweet candy in his mouth. "Though I doubt it."
He's battling in the tournament too? Your jaw tightens in uncertainty. This isn't a good sign for the humans or you for that matter. Why is he telling you this? You narrow your eyes.
"If we lose... What do you plan to do with me?"
Buddha snorts and presses the lollipop between his cheek and teeth.
"You can come back to Nirvana with me if you chose to."
Your face heats up. Perhaps it's the cord, but his proposal sounds lovely. Forever with an easygoing and attractive God like him is tempting.
"May I have my lollipop now?"
With a grin, Buddha takes the one from his mouth and offers it to you. Maybe he didn't expect you to take it, because the moment you do, sliding the treat into your mouth, his blue eyes widen. The taste of blue raspberry coats your tongue as you eagerly lick it, feeling the small indentations from his canines.
"I thought you didn't want to swap spit with me," he reminds you.
"We're tethered, remember." You retort.
Shifting the lollipop between your teeth, you press down until the shell cracks. The wide-eyed expression on the God beside you makes you snort."
"Hold on! That's the last one," Buddha mentions with a whine, reaching for the stick.
You lean back out of his reach.
"You said you'd give me one."
"I said we'd share," he clarifies.
Perhaps he did, however, he ate the last one without sharing. You grin teasingly at him.
"I'll take my share then.
As your teeth crunch down on the candy, the God lunges at you, knocking you onto your back; you don't mean to, but the sudden movement causes your mouth to snap closed, crushing the lollipop to pieces. Buddha stares down at you, mouth slightly agape as he removes the barren stick from your lips. Oops. He shouldn't have lunged at you. The fact he is nestled between your thighs forces an embarrassed heat to your face. It also doesn't help that he looks stunning in this position; with wisps of light green hair dangling around his face.
You reach up and curl a lock around your finger, admiring the way it springs back into place.
"I'm sorry about––"
Pressure on your thighs makes you shiver as the God leans down, capturing your lips in a soft kiss. For a moment, your head begins to spin; a pleasant warmth erupts in your stomach and your eyes tear up. Is this a product of the tether? A simple kiss shouldn't be this intense. It's too tempting not to want more. You return the kiss, groaning softly as Buddha adds more pressure. Why is he kissing you? It's not like you are arguing, but there has to be a reason.
No way! Is he wanting the candy? You part from him, ignoring the light tug of your bottom lip between his, and narrow your eyes.
"That's a mean trick."
"I'm just taking my share," Buddha utters. A grin spreads across his face. "Or maybe I just want an excuse to taste you."
Goosebumps rise across your skin in response.
"It's unfair how insanely attractive you are," you mention. Sliding your legs around his waist, you shoot him a glare. "Take your share if you want it."
Pressing his thumb against your bottom lip as he leans down, Buddha gently ushers you to slightly open your mouth, giving you a brief kiss before his tongue meets yours. A low moan tickles your throat, relishing in the sensation of the God intimately sucking on your tongue. The sweet and fruity taste of blue raspberry nearly drives you mad; the aroma is everywhere.
Parting from you, a thin lead of blue-tented saliva connects his tongue to yours until he breaks it, chewing on the candy he swiped from your mouth. Honestly, you feel like a complete mess. You are aware that your face is heated, and that your pussy is humming in arousal. Staring pleadingly into your eyes, you notice the unusual lily pattern in his own. Were those always there?
"Your eyes are gorgeous."
With a grin, Buddha lifts you from the ground and into his lap; your legs remain securely around his waist. He quickly turns his attention to your ear, running his warm tongue along the shell before he drops to your neck, tasting your skin. This is unreal; the sensation is almost too much to bear. He's slowly driving you mad with want.
Guiding his hand down, you grin as Buddha catches on, sinking his fingers into the waistband of your pants, yanking them down a bit. You sit up on your knees to help him remove them. With them gone, he slides his hand between your thighs and sinks a finger into your warm pussy. As he spreads your walls, preparing you for what is to come, you lean in and kiss his candy-coated lips. It takes everything you can not to break the kiss and moan; another finger slides in, pumping into you. For someone rumored to be so peaceful, he is brutal on your pussy. But what will his cock feel like inside you?
Sucking on his tongue, you yank on his robes urging him to remove them or pull them up; the latter he soon does, pulling them over his knees. It doesn't surprise you to feel that he isn't wearing anything beneath them; his hard cock rests against your thigh. You groan as his fingers retreat, leaving you feeling empty. And no sooner a tight pressure feels you as he eases you down onto him to the base. You break the kiss with a sigh; you've honestly never felt so full in your life.
"Shaka," you utter almost anxiously.
Buddha grins and buries his short nails into your hips.
"Hold on to me."
You do as told, not able to contain the gleeful smile on your face as the God begins to rock you on his cock. It hurts a bit, but honestly, you don't care; the pain combined feels divine with the pleasure Buddha is giving you. A soft moan escapes his mouth, sending warm breath against your neck; it's the hottest thing you have ever heard. Your walls tighten in response.
There isn't much you can do but try to match his quick and rough pace, arching your back. You honestly feel like you are just along for the ride at this point. It feels so damn good. There's no way you can last like this; your entire body is already tensing up. It doesn't help that the God wrecking you is giving you the most sinful and possessive look; lily patterns decorate his gorgeous blue eyes.
A warm pressure in your stomach quickly consumes you, pushing you over the edge and into an intense orgasm. It's too much; you've never felt this satisfied before almost like you can't breathe. For a minute you forget to, clutching onto the God as you ride out your high. A cold sweat washes over you and strangely a low static-like noise permeates your ears. What is this? The world around you suddenly goes dark.
A moment later, you snap to, leaning up. The God beneath you is still but remains inside you.
"Welcome back. Are you OK?" Buddha asks.
"I... What just happened?"
Your head is light and your body feels completely worn out.
"You fainted, he answers.
What? There's no way. Your face heats up in embarrassment as you avert your attention from him. Is this even possible? Did your orgasm make you faint? You've never fainted from overstimulation before, but you've also never fucked a God before either.
"I'm sorry I––"
Buddha snorts, interrupting you.
"You fainted because you stopped breathing... though I'm flattered you thought it was because of me."
Is this what caused it? You are unsure of whether you should feel relieved or not. Regardless, it's a bit embarrassing. The feeling of his cock stretching your walls reminds you that he didn't finish. You'd feel terrible if you left him like this.
"Let me take care of you."
Buddha raises a brow.
You ease off him, humming as this action leaves your walls empty and sore. Resting your knees on the ground, you reach down, wrapping your hand around him. His shaft is slick with your arousal so at least you won't have a hard time going down on him. Licking your eager lips, you lean down and press a kiss against him. This almost feels wrong, sucking off a God, but at the moment, you don't care. Sliding open your mouth, you sink onto him, taking as much in as you can; oddly enough, you don't taste half bad.
Slowly at first, you bob your head. Your tongue presses tight against the underside of his shaft, not able to move much due to limited space, but you do your best to make this good for him. It's a shame you can't see his expression; a soft grunt is the only indication you have to go on. The idea that you can make a God come surrounds you with pride and you tilt your head a bit, taking him from another angle.
A hand in your hair urges you to take a quick look at Buddha. He is staring in the distance, mouth slightly open. As expected of a God, he's gorgeous like this. You hum, bobbing your head a bit fast; the grip on your hair tightens in response. At this pace, it isn't long before you hear him groan softly. His cock twitches as warm ropes of cum coats your tongue. You continue to slowly bob your head until he is done, then you lean up, resting on your legs with a pleased yet worn-out expression on your heated face.
Swallowing the mess in your mouth, you hum.
"Even as a soul, I feel exhausted."
Buddha grins.
"We'll rest after we find Yue-Lao." He pauses to raise his finger; the one with the cord attached to it. "You wanted to ask how to remove this, didn't you?"
You do. But maybe this arrangement isn't so bad. Buddha straightens himself out and makes a move to stand, but you quickly stop him, gripping his robes.
"Can we maybe wait? I just... want to see how this pans out."
"Having second thoughts?" Buddha asks.
Is it that obvious? You nod to clarify.
"You're not that bad, I suppose, for a God."
Buddha laughs and sits back down, leaning onto his side with his hand propping him up; the other pats the ground beside him. You accept his offer, laying on your side facing him; you honestly don't care that you're bare from the waist down. The light breeze and warm sun dancing across your skin are delightful.
"Shaka," you call, resting your eyes. "If the Humans win, may I still go with you to Nirvana?"
"It's your decision... with me changing sides, the chance of the Humans losing is slim," Buddha answers.
Is he serious? You open your eyes briefly to glance at him. He's not doing this for you, is he?
"Are you––"
Interrupting you with a yawn, he shuts his eyes.
"Rest. It won't be long before I go on."
There isn't a way to convince him otherwise once his mind is made up, it seems. No matter. A God on the side of the Humans is a big leap. Either way, whichever wins, you can't wait to see what this soulmate business is all about.
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