#like good parenting doesn't end with a roof over their heads and food on the table

[lungfuls]

as someone who grew up in a Do whatever you want household I can say that it is not the revolutionary parenting technique that some people seem to think it is

[puppetmaster13u]

For any of your cryptid batfam AUs. We know Batman thinks criminals are superstitious and cowardly. So how superstitious should most Gothamites be? What are some of the superstitions and things they do because of that? And what random BS do the Bat kids do to actively encourage the superstitions because they think it’s funny?

Vibrates in headcanons.

Okay, so, this is less just the criminals of Gotham- a lot of goons are just trying to put food on the table after all- and more of, Gothamites in general. Like they have good reason to be superstitious.

Like everyone already knows about the Court of Owls, if nothing else then from the Rhyme they use to get children to behave. But Gotham? Is Weird with a capital W even in canon. There are literal streets that disappear and only reappear on certain days, areas where on specific days gravity just doesn't work right, several portals to hell have been opened just in Arkham alone, and there's enough curses and cults to smother any other place.

Funnily enough I am actually currently working on a story that focuses a bit more on the superstitions of Gotham lol. Like a lot of this stuff? Not shit you're going to see in the more tourist-esque spots, but those are death traps already.

Now a lot of the habits and myths of Gotham start out as a thing about Survival. It started less with things about the Bats and more about the Rogues and how to survive.

Tiny plant boxes meticulously cared for, after one noticed how plants react when Ivy is around. They line the windows of almost every home despite the smog, and some even pray through them for their Mother to not attack today.

Small scarecrow dolls, made of grass balls and cloth hang from overhangs on roofs with rope like a hangman, a charm in hopes that the one walking the streets will leave them alone. It ends with some claiming that if you rip the head from the body of cloth, the Scarecrow will come for you.

Small candles and lanterns begin to appear on the windowsills of children, their own homemade batsignals. Some say if you're very good, gifts will appear beside it, while others claim that if you're very bad, the Signal will appear and take you away.

Tiny shrines appear on rooftops over the years, meticulously carved statuettes within. It started with one for the Second Robin, and some whisper about how the Red Hood emerged from it, was reborn through their prayers and gifts. Now there are more, offerings ranging from snacks to child's drawings to figures of clay. No one dares take things from it, the last time someone tried... well, let's just say it didn't end well.

The thing is? The Bats don't even have to do much to encourage this, and don't usually even do it on purpose.

Everyone knows what happened to the ones who tried to be a vigilante. They know of the first Batgirl, humanity slowly dripped away the longer she huddled in the Bat's shadow until she was twisting around just like it. Any child who had been making their own costumes, their parents burned it that night, terrified that the Bat would take their children to be its own next. The small child, everyone knew about him, a wee little thing with a camera clutched against his chest. They all saw him run after the Bats despite the protests, saw him run towards the Bat as bodies crumbled before it. They saw him grab its arm with such tiny hands, and the Bat, grieving, stopped. They all saw the Bat whisk him away, and once more whispered to their children to never follow the Bats into the shadows. They know of the girl cloaked in amethyst cloth, who chased after them despite the warnings and pleadings of others. She disappeared, and the faceless thing of chittering laughs that raced the Robin that appeared in her stead... Everyone knows what happens to those who offer themselves to the Bats, knowingly or not.

Robin can mimic voices, their own childish giggles and clicks echoing across the stone slipping into another's words. What is merely a game to them is horrific for anyone wandering the streets in the dark of the night. Some say that it can steal your voice permanently if it so wished.

Everyone in Gotham knows that the Bats aren't human. Oh they might mimic and pretend to be as such, or even had been at some point, but they're confident they aren't. Even if they put on an act outside of Gotham, corpse-like skin gaining hints of color like blood is actually rushing through veins, everyone knows that's what it is. An act.

The Bats themselves? Well, it keeps their civilian identity safe- and the shrines have helped them get children out of bad home lives and to safety, so they're not going to just... not encourage it.

[judasgot-it]

Dad! Jouno headcanons...

He just looks like a stressed as hell father here. Someone help him.

Before ->

To be totally honest, I don't think Jouno would ever plan to be a father. He would never plan to be one simply because he is completely aware of how horrible of a person he is

Why would he bring someone into the world who could be exactly like him? Or worse, he would end up being a horrible parent?

He would just avoid any topic about it.

So parenthood is 100% an accident. Also, this guy would probably try to convince his gf to get an abortion at some point, cause he probably thinks he would make a child that's just that horrible

I feel like the best chance of him becoming a parent would be him not knowing about it when he got arrested and was forced into being a hunting dog. Can't tell your gf to abort when you're in jail ig. Also now he is legally obligated to pay child support. GOTTEM!

Personal theory tho.

He probably wouldn't be jumping for joy at the thought of parenthood tbh. If anything, he is freaking out. I feel like he's in between denial and freaking out. Probably gave some weird rant about the government.

During pregnancy ->

If he's miraculously there (I think the last part is more plausible. This would be his #felonera) then he would be stressed as hell

Dude knows that it's inevitable (unless he throws her down the stairs. or smothers the baby. He probably thinks some weird shit it's Jouno sorry) so now he has to prepare for a very near future of being a father

He can't have sex for what might be the next few years. He has to learn how to take care of a baby. He's made Tecchou-like food combo's now. His life is hell.

Jouno I think would only be dramatic for a month and then get over it quickly -> he has two people relying on him now. Even past his kid being born, he will inevitably have to take care of his baby mom for a while after and will have to provide. Like a dad.

He probably loves the attention and the title it gives him. Probably starts owning it and is thinking 'yeah, actually, I'm going to be an awesome dad' because he gets brownie points for doing the bare minimum as a man

Dude would be kinda ridiculous and do lots of shit just so he can get praise. He's going to be a great dad, so yea, ofc he's going to buy weird useless shit no one would actually use. It's what good dad's do (he's not even pregnant and is suffering from baby brain I think)

Is probably terrified of touching his gf because he is more than aware that his child is in there and it unnerves him. Probably is super freakish about the most random shit, like drinking coffee or going up and down stairs since he can hear whats going on.

His normal level of anxiety goes through the roof during this time. I feel like they won't ever go back down again.

During the birth he would probably be supportive although I think the sounds and smells would be so horrific for him that he would vomit and be kicked out by nursing staff

I feel like the birth was so bad for him to hear (sensitive hearing would be terrible. and smell) that he would be crying as if he pushed a baby out of his hole

Raising that Child (early years) ->

The early years are the worst for him. He still is in a stage between "I want to be a good dad" and "I'm a horrible person I literally have fucking killed people. He doesn't know I have killed people and enjoyed it"

Would have this crisis with a literal baby btw. Probably has full on very serious conversations with his kid about morality when his kid still drinks from the tit

I don't think he'd enjoy being around his kid fully until he starts actually forming full thoughts. Obviously, he loves him, but he enjoys weird kid questions much more than a baby who shits himself

Eggs him on too, tries to make him think until his brain hurts. He thinks it's funny, making a seven-year-old wrap his head around the concept of global shipping and LLCs.

He wouldn't give his kid normal child entertainment. It's all educational and weird shit. Also is very picky about their toys, he's basically a beige mom but its about noises and smells. NEVER give his kid something like slime, he'll go insane.

I think he's 100% the 'bad cop' parent because he would have a lot of rules that a little kid wouldn't get. I feel like the other Hunting Dogs would get on his ass about it

I think Jouno probably worries a lot about giving his kid a good childhood since I doubt his was good - he was alive during the great war as a kid, he turned into a criminal, and he's an ability user. not the best circumstances.

100% has been forced to bring his kid to his job, but he doesn't actually introduce him to any of his actual duties. Torturing? He can't know about that.

Jouno lets his kid hang out with his colleagues -> probably Tachihara, who I think would play the best 'uncle' role out of all of them

Later years ->

Personally, I think Jouno would have a son, but I don't think its a curse. I think it would actually be a sort of blessing, because Jouno was probably a lot nicer of a person before whatever fucked up shit happened that made him the way he is now.

Mentioning this cause I think his son would probably be a direct reflection of who he could have been -> more happy and carefree, and less on the offensive about everything

So when his kid gets older, Jouno is probably some weird guy who tries to tell his kid everything he 'wished he knew at that age'

Probably got his son to have a sex talk from one of the hunting dogs doctors. it was a traumatic bonding experience for the both of them.

He definitely fake kidnapped his kid like 3 times in case something happened. Jouno is a super soldier, but his son is not. He needs to learn how to stab people.

Gave his son a gun/knife. Insists he brings it school, no he does not care if it's against the rules - he literally is the law. His son is also a target, so it is necessary in his eyes.

God please someone stop him he thinks someone is going to murder his son every second of every day

I'm pretty sure his son is some dweeb that Jouno is almost jealous of - like he never got the opportunity to be a dork who cries about homework. he was too busy killing people in his gang at that age

Jouno definitely drops the most insane dad lore. "I killed werewolves in Kenya once" while in the middle of a PTA meeting

Worst PTA mom btw. He WILL interrogate his sons teachers and pull up their records, he is the worst parent. He really shouldn't be allowed there actually

Is a lot nicer to his kid when his son is older.

He isn't his 'best friend' but he tries to do everything he can to be a good dad -> he lives everyday thinking that it'd be his last one with his family, so he tries not to leave with a bad impression

Jouno probably lies awake at night with the thought of what his last words could be to his family

The bitchy teen years would be the worst cause Jouno would probably have the best comebacks, so any sort of argument would be shot down immediately.

i dont think he lets arguments fly at dinner. If he's even there. He would be very busy, so I think his schedule would be erratic. Although I think his son would be the same and stay up at 3 am and get a lecture from him

The hunting dogs all try to teach his son about basic things like shooting and self-defense -> Teruko definitely shot at him once or twice so he knows how to avoid an assassination attempt.

Was actually really proud that his son graduated from school and is a relatively normal member of society. He never even killed someone, that's a high achievement!

[storytowrite]

|Silent Devotion ~ See Changbin|

Paring: Seo Changbin x reader

Genre: pure smut

Word Count: 6715

Warnings: murder, shooting, blood, smut, 18+, unprotectedsex, fingering

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You were cleaning your boss Chagbin's office, as always at this hour. In this house, everything went like clockwork, every activity was planned, every step was watched, whether by cameras or security guards, who were stationed in almost every room.

This was how your life had been for a few years, you were always being watched. It all started when you were still a teenager and you ran away from your parents' house. You didn't want to live with them anymore, especially after you overheard them talking about moving to a completely different continent, away from your friends.

However, you didn't think about the fact that after running away you would have nowhere to go. Your friends turned away from you when they found out you ended up on the streets, none of the people you trusted helped you.

Your new boss turned out to be your salvation. While you were wandering around the street, trying to find something to eat and a warm place to stop, a black luxury car pulled up to you. You were surprised at first, but at the same time it interested you. A tall, well-built man came out, dressed in a very elegant black suit. At first you were scared and thought you were about to be kidnapped, but the guy stopped.

"Good day, Miss. My name is Peter and I was asked by my boss to offer you a job." His voice was calm, elegant and very friendly, completely at odds with his appearance.

You stood completely shocked by this situation, although you were still very distrustful.

"The job will be very simple. You are to clean the Lord's estate. In return, we offer accommodation, food and a very good salary." He continued when you still seemed unconvinced.

"How do I know this is not a scam and you won't kidnap me and sell me on the black market?" She finally spoke.

"You have to take my word for it, Miss. My boss doesn't hurt people he doesn't have to." He smiled slightly.

You laughed nervously, his words didn't convince you at all.

“Here is a business card with the address that the young lady should come to if the young lady decides to work. “ Not wanting to scare you even more, he put the business card on the wall in front of you, bowed and went back to the car. Then he drove off, you stood still for a few seconds before you went over to take a closer look at the business card.

It was a small, black and beautifully decorated piece of cardboard, with red and gold lettering. There was indeed an address written on it, and on the other side were the beautifully calligraphed initials SC. You were very intrigued by this small piece of paper. You thought for a long time what to do in this situation, but you decided to try, after all, it couldn't be worse than where you were now, and there you would have a roof over your head, free food and they would still pay you.

The next day you arrived at the indicated address and were speechless when you saw the building where you could possibly work. A gigantic white wall covered in ivy appeared before your eyes, in the middle of which there was an equally large and heavy golden gate. You stood next to her, not knowing what to do next, when you suddenly heard the sound of the intercom.

“Good day, Miss. I expected you to decide after all.” You heard Peter’s familiar voice. “Please come in.” After these words, the large gate began to open, revealing an equally stunning villa.

From a distance, it resembled a simple, minimalist structure with huge dark glass panes, through which cool, white light fell. The building seemed almost invisible among the dense, trimmed vegetation, as if blending into the surroundings, but it's refined form caught the eye.

You walked along the driveway lined with black tiles, leading to the main door — large, made of steel, which opened automatically. Inside, the space was even more impressive. High ceilings, cool gray concrete, and omnipresent glass gave the villa a raw, industrial character. The furniture was simple but luxurious - black leather sofas, dark wood tables, crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and abstract paintings hung on the walls, as if their owner wanted to emphasize his refined taste and wealth.

It took you a moment to notice the number of people inside. Servants bustling around the large rooms and a lot of menacing-looking men in suits.

"Good day again, Miss, let me personally escort you out. " Peter greeted you.

You nodded, because the appearance of the place took your voice away. Together you went to the next room. The open space of the living room connected to a vast terrace, on which there was a minimalist pool with edges so sharp as if it had cut the water around it in half. Exotic plants grew around, carefully selected to create an atmosphere of luxurious isolation. Discreet music rustled in the background, and the air was filled with the cool scent of masculine perfume.

"Let me show you to your room. “ He replied as you walked through the beautiful garden behind the house.

In the background there was a beautiful building made of gray brick, completely overgrown with vines. It wasn’t as modern as the main building, but it was just as beautiful, almost magical. You went inside together, here you also noticed many women of different ages. Each was dressed the same - in a rather short black dress, with a white apron tied around the waist.

None of them paid any attention to you, they were busy with their own activities. Peter showed you the stairs and together you went to the attic, where there were two doors. The man opened the first one and your eyes saw a beautiful, spacious bathroom with a huge bathtub and its own vanity, equipped with plenty of cosmetics.

“This is where you will get ready. At work, you have to look impeccable. Delicate make-up and carefully combed hair.” Peter said, still standing in the doorway.

“Sure, delicate make-up, combed hair.” You repeated, giving a sign that you understood.

“Great, let's go to your room then.” He pointed to the other door.

When the door opened, the bright morning light blinded you. The first thing you noticed was the large bed, above which stretched a huge window, facing straight to the sky. Your eyes wandered from place to place, carefully analyzing every inch of the room. The luxury you had never had left you dazed. Finally, your gaze landed on the glass wardrobe, which held a lot of beautiful and great quality clothes.

“Is this all mine?” You asked in disbelief.

“Yes, Miss. You should dress appropriately for work, in a black dress. When you are not working, you have full freedom.” The man explained to you.

“Black dress, work, after work whatever you want. Sure understand.” You replied.

“Wonderful. Now that you know everything, we can go downstairs.” He suggested and you go back to the main house.

You still couldn't stop marveling at the amount of awesomeness this house held. When you finally managed to explore the entire house, Peter began to head towards one of the older maids who was dusting in the living room.

"This is our head maid Esmeralda. She'll help you with everything and explain what to do. If you have any questions, ask her." Peter said and walked away.

The older woman stopped what she was doing, turned to you and gave you a genuine smile.

“What's your name, child?” She asked, her voice trembling slightly.

“My name is Y/n, nice to meet you.” You replied, bowing your head slightly, wanting to show respect.

“You have a lot of work ahead of you, but I think you'll manage. Get changed and we can start.” Her words scared you a little, but you were full of enthusiasm for your new job and new opportunities.

You had been working in your new house for a week now, people started to pay attention to you, you even had the impression that you had struck up a good rapport with some of them. The work was hard and tiring, you spent your days cleaning, preparing tableware and meals, washing, ironing, generally working hard.

One day, walking up the marble stairs, you noticed a slightly ajar door to one of the rooms. You knew that you shouldn't change your daily schedule, but curiosity won. The room was decorated with splendor: massive dark furniture, tall shelves full of books, and impressive paintings on the walls.

Suddenly you heard the sound of the door opening and before you could do anything, the bathroom door opened and a boy who looked to be around your age stood in the doorway. He was standing in just a towel, wet hair falling over his forehead and drops of water running down his muscular torso.

You froze, opening your eyes wide, your legs pressed against the ground and you couldn't move. You felt heat rushing to your cheeks and you just looked down.

"Oh god, I'm sorry, I didn't know someone was here. I'm going now." You choked out, step by step backing towards the door.

The man raised an eyebrow at your embarrassment, but instead of getting angry, he smiled slightly.

"You have nothing to stress about. Please stay, you just have to give me a moment to get dressed." He said calmly, pointing you to the couch, then disappeared into the large wardrobe.

You sat down uncertainly on the couch, still feeling your cheeks burning. After a while, the stranger came out dressed in a black shirt that emphasized every outline of his muscular torso and perfectly tailored pants. He sat down opposite you and smiled friendly.

“I'm Changbin, nice to meet you.” He extended his hand to you.

“Y/n.” You replied, greeting him.

Introducing yourself gave you a little relief and you could talk to him calmly. Your conversations were really interesting and time flew by. You felt like you had known each other for years. At some point, intrigued, you decided to ask a question that was on your mind.

“I found out that this is the villa of a mafia boss. Apparently he is very strict and no one has the right to oppose him. As an ordinary cleaning lady, no one will have the opportunity to see him, because only selected people can be near him. And did you ever manage to see him?”

The boy burst out laughing loudly, which surprised you very much. You frowned, thinking that you had said something very stupid.

“I see him every day… I happen to be the strict boss, and you work for me.” He replied, smiling inquisitively.

You opened your mouth wide, and your heart stopped beating for a moment. You jumped to your feet, panic taking hold of you.

“God, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have acted like that, master. Forgive me for my recklessness, master.” You began to bow, feeling embarrassment almost burning through you.

Changbin rolled his eyes and stepped closer to you, placing a hand on your back to calm you down.

“Call me Changbin, like before. There’s no need to be so tense, I don’t blame you.” He said calmly, his touch surprisingly warm.

You just nodded, still feeling the blush on your cheeks. You quickly apologized, then ran out of the room, feeling your heart pounding in your chest like a hammer.

That’s how you met your boss, in the worst possible way.

__________

It had been a few years since you had entered the residence and thanks to your enthusiasm, you had quickly moved up the hierarchy. Thanks to that, you have gained access to new parts of the building. Your fingers were gently sliding along the spine of a book on the top shelf when suddenly the quiet slam of a closing door interrupted the moment. Your heart beat faster - you turned around abruptly, but your leg slipped off the edge of the stool. Everything happened in a split second. You braced yourself for a painful fall, but instead of an impact, you felt warmth.

You opened your eyes and met his gaze. Changbin held you tightly, and his eyes, dark as night, seemed to read every hidden secret.

"Be careful, Y/n" He said, his voice sounding like a gentle warning. 

You swallowed hard and quickly stood on your feet, looking away. Your breathing was quickening and a blush was burning your cheeks.

“I’m sorry, Master…” You whispered, but the words died in your throat as you noticed the annoyed look on his face. He sighed deeply, as if it was something he’d said a hundred times before.

“I already told you, call me Changbin.” He corrected you firmly. You bit your lip, feeling like you had made another mistake.

“I’m sorry, maste... Changbin.” You finally replied, adjusting your dress, the delicate material of which chafed against your skin. “Can I help you?”

He looked at you for a moment, as if weighing his words before answering.

“Yes, yes, you can. A foreign client will be visiting me tonight. I would like you to serve us.”

Your heart skipped a beat.

“Of course, it would be an honor.” You replied with a wide smile.

This was your first real chance. You couldn’t waste it.

Changbin nodded, his face still serious.

“This is a very important meeting, Y/n. Everything has to be perfect. I’m counting on you.”

“I won’t let you down!” You assured enthusiastically.

You watched as he turned around and left the office, then went back to work, knowing you had to hurry.

After work, in your room, you took a shower and prepared yourself carefully, feeling excited and nervous at the same time. Your new dress fit perfectly, and the velvet bow delicately emphasized the hair falling to your shoulders. You looked at your reflection in the mirror, making sure that everything was in its place. You were ready.

It was late evening when you brought a tray of empty glasses to the office, which you placed on the table in front of the two men. There was no room for mistakes, everything had to be perfect on point. You didn't say a word the whole time, only bringing drinks and snacks to the table when needed. Even though you couldn't say anything, you listened carefully. For now, at this moment, you found out that your boss's client was called Victor and he didn't look like a nice guy. Every time you looked at him, shivers went through your body, but you couldn't show it.

The office you were in was filled with the smoke of the cigar that Victor was smoking, and the heavy black curtains blocked the moonlight. Both men sat opposite each other on two different sides of the table, and you walked around them, fulfilling their whims but not disturbing the meeting.

You felt the pressure on yourself, after all you had to do well. However, you were surprised by the fact that you were the only maid at this meeting and why you were chosen when your boss had a lot of other more experienced maids. Also, halfway through the meeting, Changbin ordered all the security guards to leave, so the three of you were left in the room.

As you approached the table to collect the empty glasses, Victor looked at you with a nasty smirk that made you feel uneasy, but you kept your head high and smiled.

“Beautiful girl.” He said, looking at you carefully. “Don't you think Changbin that your maid is too cute to work like this?”

Changbin raised an eyebrow, looking coldly at Victor.

“Y/n is here to work, so please respect her.” He said, still maintaining his calm and stoic composure.

Victor laughed, his laugh deep and malicious. He grabbed his glass and drank the entire contents. He then swirled it in his fingers, signaling you to refill it.

You leaned down slightly to pour another glass of wine for your guest.

“Would you like to join us? Come here, my love.” He held out his hand to you, but you took a step back, feeling anxiety building in your chest.

Changbin looked at you, his eyes full of concern directed only at you.

“Victor.” His voice was icy. “I said you have to respect her. Leave her alone and let’s focus on business.”

However, Victor ignored the warning. He grabbed your wrist, and your eyes widened in fear.

“Don't be so shy.” He whispered, pulling you even closer to him. “I feel like having some fun.” At that moment, something inside Changbin snapped. He stood up abruptly, knocking his chair over.

“Let her go! Now!”

Victor looked at him with a challenge in his eyes, but he didn’t let go of you.

“What if I don’t?” he asked provocatively.

Changbin didn’t answer, he just pulled out his gun and aimed it straight at Victor’s head.

“I warned you.” You only heard those words, then your ears started to squeak from a loud shot.

You instinctively closed your eyes and felt warm blood spraying your face. At the same time, you crouched down, scared, and didn’t dare to get up for a while. Crouched down, you only heard a few guards who were standing in front of the door running inside.

“Take the body. Our negotiations are over.” You heard Changbin’s voice, completely unaffected by what had just happened. ���It’s over, Y/n. You don’t have to be afraid.” He crouched down in front of you and gently lifted your chin to look at you closely.

You looked at him as he looked at you, making sure that you definitely didn't have any wounds. His face was calm, blissful, as if he wanted to show you that you had nothing to be afraid of.

"I'm sorry about this situation. You must be scared. Let me help you, but first I'll ask Esmeralda to prepare a bath for you in my room. I'd rather keep an eye on you now." He said, offering you his hand and helping you to stand up, as your legs were shaking with fear.

The last thing you saw before leaving was a few servants wiping up pools of blood and security guards packing Victor's body into a bag. Changbin didn't leave your side the whole way to his room. The two of you attracted the attention of the others gathered, but they tried to hide it. You walked slowly, taking your time, and the shock you had experienced slowly subsided from you.

Changbin led you to his bathroom, where Esmeralda, at his request, prepared a bath for you. The boy gently sat you down on the edge of the tub, his eyes filled with concern and warmth that brought unexpected peace to your heart. He grabbed a wet towel, and his movements were slow, as if he wanted to make sure that every action of his would comfort you. He gently wiped the small drops of blood from your face that reminded you of the events of the last few hours.

"You have nothing to worry about, Y/N. You're safe with me. I won't let anyone hurt you." He said, placing a warm hand on your cheek. His touch was soothing, as if he was not only physically removing traces of pain, but also mentally giving you shelter from the world. "Take a bath, please. Take your time, and I'll be waiting in my room. If you need anything, just call me," He added, then left, leaving you alone in the bathroom.

You were grateful for his concern. When Changbin disappeared behind the door, you started to take off your clothes, still dirty and stuck to your body after everything that had happened. You sank into the warm, relaxing water, feeling the stress and tension leave your body. The water acted like a balm on your senses, allowing you to forget for a moment. You washed away the remnants of dirt and anxiety, wanting to feel fresh and regain control over yourself.

After bathing, you got out of the tub and looked around the bathroom. You noticed that you didn't have any clothes to change into. You wrapped yourself tightly in a towel, feeling the cool breeze on your wet skin, and went out, heading to Changbin's room. The boy was sitting on the bed, looking through one of the books.

"Um, could I get some clothes?" You asked shyly.

He turned to you slowly, looking at you for a moment, as if he wanted to remember every detail. After a moment, he stood up without a word and disappeared into his wardrobe. He came back with a white shirt in his hand, which he handed to you.

“Thank you.” You whispered, turning on your heel to go back to the bathroom and change. As you closed the door behind you, you realized you didn’t have a change of underwear. You didn’t want to put on the one you were wearing earlier- it felt dirty. So you decided to just put on a shirt. It was big and long, covering everything that should be covered.

You left the bathroom and Changbin was now sitting on the couch, his gaze once again resting on you. You could have sworn the corner of his mouth lifted slightly, though there was no hint of mockery in it.

“Thank you, master.” You said quietly, about to leave, but his voice stopped you.

“Changbin.” He corrected you sternly. “I told you to call me Changbin.” His voice sounded irritated, but it quickly softened. “Y/N, sit with me, please. Let's talk like the first time we met."

You looked at him uncertainly, but you couldn't say no to your boss. You hesitated, but eventually walked over and sat down next to him on the couch. The leather upholstery was cool under your skin, and you desperately tried to cover all the parts of your body that shouldn't be visible at the moment. You were intimidated by his closeness, but you didn't want to admit it.

"Is everything okay?" He asked, leaning slightly towards you. "You don't have to be afraid of me."

"I’m okay. Thank you so much for helping me." You finally spoke, still crumpling the material of your shirt in your hands.

"Would you like a drink, Y/n?" He asked, getting up from the couch and walking over to the small bar in the corner of the room.

"I'm working, I'm not allowed to drink." You answered immediately, thinking it was some kind of test.

“Chill Y/n, you're with me, and with me you can do anything. Let's celebrate our meeting. “ He poured wine into two glasses and came back to you, handing you one.

“Okay, I guess one won't hurt. “ You took a sip from the glass and fell in love with the taste of this alcohol, you've never had such good wine in your life.

Thanks to the alcohol, you relaxed slightly and talked freely with Changbin, just like when you first met.

After a long conversation and a few glasses of wine, Changbin approached you. He sat so close that his legs touched yours.

“I'm glad Y/n that I drove past you that day. The first time I saw you I knew you were special. I had to have you by my side. I'm glad you agreed to work for me. “ His words hit you with double the force, probably because of the alcohol.

A red blush began to paint your cheeks. You were slightly embarrassed by his words, because you didn't expect to hear that from him.

"I'm the one who's glad I got a chance at a better life. I owe you everything." You replied, swirling the half-full glass in your fingers.

There was silence for a moment, but it wasn't an awkward silence. You sat staring at each other, and the tension between you was growing. You don't know why, but your heart began to skip a beat as you looked at him closely. His features seemed even more defined, his lips were plumper, and his eyes were full of passion.

"Y/n." He began, placing his hand on your bare thigh. "Since the first time I saw you, I knew I wanted you. I want to have you for myself. I want to taste you. You're like a forbidden fruit to me, one that I desire so much." His words were certain, but at the same time very sensual.

Your whole body heated up and you couldn't help but bite your lip as Changbin's hand moved up a little.

"Don't do that, or I won't be able to hold back." He said, placing his other hand on your cheek.

"What if I don't want you to hold back?" You asked, your voice slightly husky and seductive.

Changbin just gave you a short smile and grabbed you by the neck to pull you closer to him. His lips immediately landed on yours, he didn't play cat and mouse with you, he just stuck his tongue into your mouth, and you reciprocated, the first hot kiss. Emotions were boiling inside you, and the excitement was growing.

You couldn't help but moan quietly when Changbin completely took the initiative and deepened your kiss. You pulled away from each other only for a moment to catch your breath, which you were desperately looking for.

After a moment, Changbin pulled away from you, only to whisper in your ear.

"Hold the glass up and don't drop it, because I'll be very angry and I'll have to punish you."

His words sent shivers down your body, but you decided to obey and lifted the glass you were holding in your hand. At that moment, Changbin planted a passionate kiss on your neck, which almost made you drop your glass. You didn't expect his lips to be so pleasant, and his kisses aggressive but also very thoughtful.

His other hand wandered up and down your thigh, slowly testing how far he could go. His every move was carefully planned to bring you as much pleasure as possible.

After a while, when he got bored with your neck, he slowly unbuttoned one of the buttons of his shirt with one hand and focused his kisses on your collarbones, lightly biting them. It made your back arch into a beautiful curve. Changbin's other hand went under your breasts, holding you so you wouldn't run away.

He really liked the way you looked at that moment. Slightly squinted eyes, back arched and bitten lips, everything was perfect and he wanted to keep it that way for as long as possible.

"Binnie." You whispered between heavy breaths.

It worked on him like a rag to a bull. He sat down comfortably and pulled you with him, so that you were sitting on his lap, straddling him. Without stopping kissing you, he deftly unbuttoned another button of his shirt, giving himself access to your bare breasts. His sudden movement made you want to lower your hands and cover yourself, but the boy caught your hand and lifted it above your head again.

“A-a-a… I said to hold the glass up.” He whispered, lightly nibbling on your earlobe. “Good girl.”

His words turned you on even more and you started to feel yourself getting warm down there, and his next movements didn’t help. Changbin grabbed your breasts in his hands and started kneading them. His touch was gentle but firm at the same time. You couldn’t stop the moans that fell from your lips. However, you quickly covered your mouth with a free hand.

“Oh no, baby. I want to hear how I affect you. " He said, smiling nonchalantly and moving his hands to your nipples.

He grabbed them in his fingers and began to fondle them thoroughly. He gave each one the same amount of attention. He gently rolled them in his fingers, enjoying every second. You slowly began to feel how wet you were, and that was just the beginning of the fun. His hands went to your buttocks to bring you even closer to him.

His mouth rested on one of your nipples, and his tongue swirled around it, as if immersed in a dance. He smoothly moved from one nipple to the other, playing with your buttocks at the same time. You felt how you were soaking wet and staining his pants with your juices, but Changbin didn't seem to mind it, quite the opposite. His penis began to tense up, creating a bulge in his pants that pressed against your pussy.

This time it was you who smiled when you felt new possibilities to please yourself. You sloppily began to unbutton his shirt, inch by inch revealing his gorgeous torso.

Feeling how eager you were to continue the game, the boy slightly let you know that you could start moving your hips to relieve the desire that your body was showing more and more. You slowly started to move forward and back, with his hands still kneading your buttocks. The bulge in his pants rubbed against you, creating unforgettable sensations. You wanted more, you craved more. You needed to have him inside you, but the boy decided to tease you a little more.

In one smooth movement, he took you off his lap and quickly pulled his pants down, leaving you only in your boxers. Despite the amount of pleasure you were now experiencing, you bravely held the glass above your head, not even a drop fell out of it. Changbin pulled you to him again, only now you were sitting backwards on his lap. One of his hands rested on your breast, playing with your nipple again, and the other went down.

His fingers immediately began to caress your clit, using your own juices, which were already flowing down your thighs, as lubrication. Your whole body tensed under the influence of his touch. Your entire pussy was very sensitive, and you couldn't resist such a reaction. He skillfully maneuvered between your folds and your clit, not skipping a millimeter.

He played with you like that for some time, enjoying every second. You writhed under his touch, but you couldn't do anything about it. The boy knew perfectly well what he was doing to fully satisfy you. Soon his fingers ran between your folds, heading for your hole.

He easily slid one finger into your hole, and a loud moan escaped your lips. Without waiting a moment, he began to move it inside. Slowly at first, and with time, speeding up and adding another finger. His movements inside you were like magically enchanted time for you. You didn't want him to stop, you were at the edge of your endurance when he suddenly pulled his fingers out of you and took you off his lap, which was met with a grunt of displeasure from you.

"Don't be so impatient little one. I'll give you what you want so much soon." He said, kneeling in front of you and spreading your legs.

Without further ado, he ran his tongue all over your pussy, finally focusing on the most sensitive spot. He wrapped his lips around your clit and sucked on it lightly. Your eyes rolled to the back of your head from the amount of pleasure you were feeling at the moment.

Your body began to shake slightly as his tongue slowly began to wander down. The boy grabbed your legs tightly and pulled you so that you were sitting on the edge of the couch, giving him better access to you. His unexpected movement caused some of the wine to spill, but neither of you seemed to notice.

Changbin licked your pussy once more before he inserted his tongue into your hole. He was looking for the exact spot that would give you the most pleasure, and when he found it, guided by your increasingly louder moans, he sped up his movements. He watched you writhe under his touch, kneading your breasts with pleasure. When you reached for his hair to tangle your fingers in it, Bin's lips curved into a slight smile. He knew perfectly well that you were close to climax. So he sucked on your pussy a few times and sped up his movements again. You didn't expect someone could be so good at doing good with their mouths, and yet. A few movements were enough for a powerful orgasm to overwhelm you. You squeezed your legs against his face, shaking and twitching. The wave of pleasure was so big that you dropped the glass from your hand, which fell on the couch.

With your other hand, you also grabbed his hair, tightly tangling your fingers in it. Your breathing was very heavy, and sometimes you even had the impression that you weren't breathing as you went through your orgasm. Changbin patiently waited for you to calm down, so that you could continue. He stroked your legs, calmly guiding you through every second of pleasure.

After a moment, you began to feel all the tension leave you and you began to relax. Your legs fell limply down, and your hands loosened their grip. Changbin stood up from his knees and leaned over you.

"You dropped the glass, darling. Now you're going to be punished." Without waiting for your answer, he picked you up and carried you to the bed. He laid you down gently and pulled off your unnecessary shirt, then took off his boxers, revealing his fully erect penis.

You looked at him seductively, slightly biting your lip. The boy laughed slightly and approached you, kneeling between your legs. His cock gently rubbed your still sensitive pussy, and you couldn't help but lift your hips. You wanted to feel him inside you already.

"So impatient and so horny." He said, leaning over you slightly, sliding between your wet folds a few times, wetting his cock.

Finally, he aimed at your hole. His tip pressed against your entrance and in one smooth movement, he entered you completely. Your mouth opened but no sound came out, as if you were speechless. Only when you let out a breath from your lungs were you able to speak again. Changbin's size was perfect, not too small and not too big, so as not to hurt you.

His first movements were slow, smooth and calm. He wanted you to get used to this position. Seeing how you kept biting your lip and pulling your hair slightly, he sped up and deepened his movements. They were no longer so calm, but still rhythmic. His penis slid in and out of you, stretching your walls slightly.

However, after a while, even that wasn't enough for him. He lifted both of your legs and placed them on his shoulders, giving himself access to deeper penetration. The first movements of his hips were calm, but they quickly gained momentum when the room was filled with sweet moans. Your breasts jumped in rhythm with the movements, giving him additional wonderful views.

"More Changbin, I want more!" You said between moans of pleasure.

The boy understood this perfectly, quickly pulled out of you and lay on his back. You knew immediately what he meant. You climbed on top of him and aimed his penis at your hole. When his penis slid back into you, filling you, a shiver of pleasure ran down your spine.

You began to see him, moving your hips forward and back, giving yourself additional sensations. You felt blissful, you started to play with your hair, revealing your breasts. Changbin's hands immediately went to them, they fit them perfectly, as if they were sculpted especially for them.

After a moment, your movements began to become careless, you felt the warmth in your lower abdomen growing again, you knew that the second orgasm was coming and faster than you thought. Changbin noticed it too, his hand went to your clit. He started to stimulate it, and you couldn't stop the feeling that you were about to explode. His fingers were agile and fast, they carefully caressed the most sensitive spot.

"Binnie...I can’t...I can't hold out any longer!" You screamed as a wave of pleasure flooded your body again.

You dug your fingers into Changbin's muscular chest. He admired you as you twitched on him, with his penis still inside you. However, he didn't wait for the whole orgasm to pass, he just lifted you off him and put you on all fours. Then he immediately thrust into you with great force.

Your elbows bent under you. You were now completely exposed to him, your chest fell onto the soft mattress and your hips remained up. Changbin grabbed your hips, holding you up. He didn't want you to run away, he was absorbed in you. Your body, your scent, just you.

His movements were strong, the sound of skin slapping against each other filled the room, mixing with your loud moans of pleasure. The orgasm from earlier had worn you out a bit, you were overstimulated, but you didn't want to show it. You wanted to have him inside you for as long as possible and make love to him for as long as possible.

Changbin's fingers dug into your skin so hard that they slowly lost their color, but the boy wanted to enter you even harder. A few movements later you felt a sudden rush of pleasure take over your body. Looking at your reaction, he knew he hit your sweet spot and that's where he had to continue.

Even though you had just climaxed, you could feel your third orgasm approaching and it would be stronger than the previous two.

“I…I’m…cumming!” You moaned between the blows to your buttocks.

Changbin understood your plea and sped up his movements, still staying in your sweet spot. You dug your fingers into the sheet so hard that the blood drained from them, but you didn’t mind, you had to somehow control your body.

Soon the boy’s movements became uneven, but they didn’t lose their strength. His breathing quickened. You were both close, both waiting for the desired fulfillment. After a few more movements, you both came. You felt the warm liquid filling you inside as his cum shot out.

Your walls clenched on him uncontrollably as more waves of heat flooded your body. All your muscles contracted uncontrollably as he hit your buttocks slower and slower. Each of your movements led you through orgasm. The amount of pleasure that hit you was so great that you clenched your teeth on the sheet, hoping that it would bring some help.

Only after a moment did Changbin gently fall onto you and very slowly pull out of you, giving the excess cum a chance to escape. He placed a gentle kiss on your red buttock, then your back, shoulder blades and neck. Your body reacted to each new mark left on your body.

Finally, you fell onto the bed exhausted, your forehead decorated with small beads of sweat, just like Changbin's. You lay next to each other, staring at each other, your breaths were heavy, but you were happy.

Changbin brushed a strand of hair away from yours and gently stroked your cheek.

"You're mine Y/n and I won't let anyone hurt you." He said tenderly, placing a sweet kiss on your lips.

You lay on the bed for a while longer, you snuggled up to Changbin, wanting to stay with him as long as possible. When your breathing calmed down a bit, Changbin took you to the bathroom and made a shared bath for you. After all, he couldn't leave you like this. Once the tub was full, you both got in. He sat down behind you and hugged you tightly, wrapping his arms around you. You felt safe with him and knew this was the start of something great. Something where you were the main characters. Your life was about to change from being a mere servant, you were finally together with a mafia boss.

—————————————

Masterlist

[vse-kar-vem]

joker out cooking livestream recap:

-they cooked chicken in mustard or somethjng. potatoes are in it as well

-nace's government name is, in fact, nace ! bojan thought nace's grandmother calls him ignac but no

-bojan tries to transfer the potatoes into a bigger pan. which they cannot find. they do find ANOTHER pan (disgustingly unwashed)

-jan's parents are currently taking care of igor, who has everything he needs: food. a roof over his head. cuddles if he wants. jan is not worried

-we have a short discussion about dishwashing soap. they use the original green fairy brand soap which is nace's favourite. jan doesn't have a favourite. bojan claims that WASHING HIS HANDS WITH DISH SOAP IS WHAT KEEPS THEM SOFT ("i have baby hands") ??????? APPARENTLY?????

-then jan and nace walk around the house feeling up each other/every one else's hands. bojan's hands are confirmed the softest but it's concluded that his secret is not dish soap but being a singer and not an instrumentalist (or playing an instrument badly, his words not mine)

-throughout this entire livestream jure sharpens two knives. good for him, it's very impressive (he slices grapes! and lemons! truly a resourceful kitty)

-we learn that kris is not here because he's MODELLING???? HUH???? 🫢🫢🫢

-we get an update on kamila's flowers (withering on top of the fridge. 😞)

-the connection was SO BAD im not kidding, which was why we missed out on a lot of stuff ☹️☹️ they don't have wifi and are relying SOLEY on data

-their favourite british supermarket is aldi, because it's cheap and the quality is ok. obviously they diss british produce, which like fair enough

-they sing a little ditty about their current circumstances-- shit wifi, potato cooking, etc (ft. NACE'S SINGING VOICE!!) honestly it was highkey a banger

-they answer some questions ie. "drop hints" about the new song. we get 2 rhythms and one singular chord

-they decide do an mtv cribs (tiktok cribs) style house tour which would be GREAT if anything would load 😐😐 so we ended up with a very very cut-up fridge tour (they have at least 2-3 cartons of milk and slovenian sausage (?). also oyster sauce

-the stream REALLY starts lagging here (as if it wasn't already). ok me personally i only caught "-- doesn't want us to go in his room" (about jure or kris??) jan and nace consider going into bojan's. then extended lag on a very ominous staircase. no rooms seen by me at least 😞😞

-they come back down and answer more qs! that i don't remember! sorry this recap was for me and not you 😞

-oh yeah they get asked "who cleans the kitchen?" a beat. jan and nace both laugh "yeah, who cleans the kitchen??" i think that says a lot about this household

-they talk a bit more about the song-- will give you (uncle roger voice) eMoTionaL dAmAgE. that hurt my soul to write but at least i (cantonese) am allowed to do the accent, unlike SOMEONE ELSE ON THIS LIVESTREAM (thanks bojan. at least you were shit at it enough so that it came off just slightly interesting and not anything else)

-that's all i can remember!! bojan finishes cooking, jan and nace sign off to eat. prolonged minute of staring and waving at the camera. i notice they are both very beautiful men. end of stream !

[kariachi]

Really there was a good space for money to be a point of conflict between Kevin and the Tennysons. Like, we get the show going 'oh that Kevin isn't he greedy' but, I mean really a thing.

Because here's the thing, the Tennysons are middle-class teenagers living at home with parents who take care of them, one of whom ends up with merchandise. If they're hungry, there's probably gonna be food in the fridge at home and they did not need to worry about getting it there. If they decide to splurge, the only things they have to worry about cutting funds from are non-essentials. If their valuable shit is damaged, somebody else has to worry about replacing or fixing it. If they get hurt, somebody else's insurance is covering it. If they decide to step back from the Plumbers and just not work for a while? They don't need to worry about a roof over their heads.

And Kevin is, very much not middle-class living at home with parents taking care of him and merchandising deals on the side. Even discounting WoG it's clear he doesn't live with his mother, probably for reasons relating to the absolute mess that was a childhood that left him homeless longterm. He's paying his own bills, he's buying his own groceries, whenever his car gets wrecked that's on him. And I doubt the Plumbers medical funds cover freelancers, so we can reasonably assume any damage he takes prior to Basic Training? The medical bills are on him too. If he decides he needs a break? He's still got expenses he needs to cover, he has to worry about making sure he's got an nest egg enough to keep him for however long first. And this isn't something new to him, he's first introduced as homeless at 11-years-old, and aside from his time in prison and with the Rooters? There's no indication anyone else was funding his ass. He's been having to worry about this shit since before he even met the Tennysons, and the position he's in as of UAF is likely only recently as good as it is given his age and the work and time it would take to reach any level of true success in the black market.

Just, it would have made for a good episode in 'we're more mature now' UA, to hit on the difference between how they look at money, how they spend their money, and why.

[profoundbondfanfic]

Having fun this Christmas? Need a break from all the running around and stuff to prepare or family to meet? Or maybe you need a little pick-me-up because we all know how tough this time of the year can be as well. Then dig right in.

And Even In The Quiet Night by KelpietheThundergod [General audiences, 7k words]

He couldn't answer with the truth when Jody had asked him, concern bleeding through her typical gruffness, “You okay, kiddo? Since when do you care about Christmas?” He doesn't, of course, not really. It's just that Christmas is a widely accepted excuse to cook enough food for an entire baseball team, then eat too much and lounge on the couch surrounded by family and argue about which movie to watch. Or so Dean thinks. Really, it was just a stupid – it's not like Dean is lonely. Sam is here, Cas is here, and the others are – well, mostly not here. But really, it should be enough. Dean is a grown-ass man, he can deal with being alone on Christmas. (Or, the one in which no one cares about Christmas but Dean)

Dance Real Close by Maleyah (Katherine_Kat) [Explicit, 5k words]

For the umpteenth time tonight, Castiel swallows and clenches his teeth, hard enough that he might just need a dentist appointment once this horrendous evening comes to its inevitable end and he has what he came for. Good thing the company has excellent health care. He forces his gaze into a faux-thousand yard stare, a wilful attempt to get lost among the many twinkling lights and ornaments. Just off of the shoulder of the man who is his current, last and most annoying obstacle. Dean Winchester. Dressed to the nines in a suit of snowflake white, he fits in at this high-end Yule Ball as if he hasn’t done anything else in his life. Top of his class and generation, ten years Castiel’s junior, much too skilled for his own good at nigh anything from close combat to subterfuge to extraction, his competition, who is, for some unfathomable reason, flirting with Castiel on the mission.

From Your Secret Santa by ILoveLucey [Teen and up, 26k words]

Dean and Sam have had a tough year. Their dad died, leaving them parentless, and Dean has had to pick up the slack to make sure his little brother is fed, clothed, and has a roof over his head. To say that Dean is not in the Christmas spirit this year is an understatement. That is, until Dean gets a secret Santa who wants nothing more than to make the brothers' Christmas a cheerful one. The mysterious gift-giver apparently plans to do that with twelve days of cheesy poems, dorky activities, and, okay, some actually really nice presents. Dean hates to admit it but before the twelve days of Christmas are over his mood is effectively turned around. The only thing is, he's pretty sure his secret Santa is actually more of a secret admirer. It could be anyone from the Roadhouse trivia teams but there is only one person he wants it to be - his brown-haired, blue-eyed, oh-so-sexy best friend who has been there for him through everything and who he has a major, secret crush on.

Here's to Many More by wincechesters [Explicit, 15k words]

After a blowout at his parents' house on Christmas Eve, Castiel resigns himself to a lonely, miserable holiday. On his way home he finds himself at a dive bar, spilling his life story to the handsome, charming bartender he's just met. It's an unlikely set of circumstances, but when the bartender invites him to come home with him, Castiel says yes—and it looks like he might not be spending his Christmas alone and miserable after all.

I Love New York by followyourenergy [Explicit, 44k words]

When Dean’s brother can’t go on their planned trip to New York City, Dean goes alone. He meets Cas, a man who’s there to “do things differently” and invites Dean to do the same. Through their adventures, Dean expands not only his palate, but his idea of who he is, who he can be…and who he can be with.

Orna-meant to Be by MalMuses [Teen and Up, 5k words]

It's been a long year, but Castiel and his vampire boyfriend Dean have finally reached their first Christmas together. The first of many, if Dean has his way. A fluffy holiday timestamp in the Bat Dean 'Verse.

Snowy Blue by Kitmistry [Teen and Up, 3k words]

On the brink of a new year, Dean runs into an old friend.

The Prince Switch by teacass (Fushigi) [Teen and up, 12k words]

Castiel couldn’t see much in the dark, but there was a silhouette of a tall person standing in the room opposite of his. Judging from the depth of the voice, it must have been Dean Winchester, Jimmy’s best friend, sous chef, and co-owner of the bakery. “Hello, Dean,” Castiel whispered. Even he heard it sounded way too official and too much like his princely self, so he quickly corrected. “I mean, hi. It’s just me. Go back to sleep.” “What are you doing up?” Dean asked. Oh, it’s nothing. I just snuck out of the palace in the middle of the night to switch places with your best friend, Castiel thought. “I couldn’t sleep,” Castiel said out loud. “Too excited about the whole competition thing.”

[awitcheress]

So I've been watching way too many cooking shows on Facebook and Instagram lately..

Geraskier modern AU - non magical. Part 1.

Geralt is homeless and has been for most of his life. Jaskier is not. In fact, his family is filthy rich. But they don't approve of what he wants in life which is to be a Michelin star gourmet chef. He's been cooking his entire life because when he was a kid, his parents pretty much made sure he studied, but apart from that they didn't care much. (Very original premise, I know... Lol.)

But the one person who did care for him was the chef of the household. An elderly man who lost his son and wife, when the son was only a small child, so Jaskier and the chef find each other immediately and form a strong bond. Even as a very young boy, Jaskier shows much talent in cooking.

Then, when Jaskier turns eighteen, Chef dies. Jaskier is devastated by his loss and he equates everything good and loving with food. So, he wants to go to culinary school to continue learning to become as skilled at cooking as Chef.

When his parents refuse to allow him this (Surprise!), Jaskier runs away. Unfortunately, he has no way to survive and ends up homeless and alone. For long, miserable weeks, he starves and suffers cold weather, nowhere to feel safe, no one to trust.

Sometimes he even considers returning to Lettenhove...

One day, late at night, he is cornered by a big, muscular man, who beats him up and tries to rape him. It's too dark for Jaskier to see what the man looks like. There have been instances of rape/murders all over Novigrad. Jaskier is convinced he is going to die, when two other men appear and chase Jaskier's attackers away.

Jaskier is profoundly grateful to these two men who introduce themselves as Geralt and Eskel. Well, Eskel introduces them. Geralt only mumbles... (naturally)

Eskel tells Geralt to accompany Jaskier to the city watchmen. He does, but it's useless. Homeless people being raped and murdered? Just as well. It'll clean up the city streets is their attitude.

Geralt doesn't seem surprised. Regardless, Upon leaving, Jaskier chatters away with Geralt. He relies his life's story in two minutes flat 😂 as Geralt "hms" and grunts in his own inimitable way. Jaskier is not deterred. He's in love.

This gruff, tall and broad shouldered man is Jaskier's knight in...tattered old black clothing. His hair is long and the color of the palest cream, and he is absolutely breathtaking. Geralt has a voice that rumbles deep in his chest when he chooses to say something. His legs are long and powerful, his eyes like liquid honey... Geralt's arms are sinewy and strong. Oh dear, Jaskier has to stop himself from melting like ice cream left out in the sun...

Geralt helps introduce Jaskier to the people at the homeless shelter, and he's offered a bed there. Geralt leaves and, again, Jaskier is alone. The shelter is nothing like what he's used to from home, but it's eons better than the last few weeks on the street. He has a roof over his head, even if he has to share living space with others.

Thus, the loneliness is gone quite rapidly. Jaskier meets several people there, among them, Vesemir, who runs the soup kitchen. When he finds out that Jaskier likes to cook, Vesemir invites him to help.

Soon his life is changed into something so different, he feels his head spinning, and Jaskier's days are a million times better. He has access to showers, a bathroom, clean water, he's gets to eat at least once a day. And, cooking, something he loves to do so much, is actually helping others. The love is back in his life.

And then, of course, there's Geralt. Speaking to him, and listening to others, Jaskier learns that Geralt, despite his gruff nature, is a good man who patrols the streets with his brothers, Eskel and Lambert. They're trying to help keep the homeless safe, but there are so many of them...

Several young, homeless, slender and pretty men, like Jaskier, are raped and murdered. Jaskier's description of the man who attacked him is shaky at best... "Big and strong" fits even Geralt and his brothers. The only one who wasn't there is Lambert, who is a bit of a prick.

Geralt and Jaskier over time becomes friends if a sort but Geralt is not responding to Jaskier's attempts at flirting.

A year goes by, and one day, Geralt finds Jaskier in the kitchen with big news....

[morgana-ren]

Bailey, Leighton, both weak spots for me. If you wanted to share any thoughts, any lewd disgusting thoughts or random ideas you'd had about those two I'm more than willing to listen

Oho-ho, you came to the right place.

So here's the thing:

Bailey and Leighton are both absolutely repugnant, reprehensible characters. Most people in this game are abhorrent, yes, but these ones strike a special note with me for a few reasons, namely authority-- and the abuse of it.

Bailey's label is 'Caretaker.' He's the closest thing to a father that you have, presumably raising you since before you can remember. He's a dark mirror into what a parent should be. Where there should be unconditional love, affection, and trust, he provides exploitation, cruelty, and despair. He has absolutely zero qualms with quite literally selling you and your fellows to the debauched denizens of the town and subjecting you to one of the worst experiences that a human can physically go through, and he does it on a dime. Even other terrifying people in town seem petrified by him, and that should give a clue to how awful he really is.

Leighton is the 'Headmaster.' He is charged with your education and safety during the mandatory hours you attend his institution. He is arguably responsible for the success and the happy-ever-after of every student under his charge. Instead, he uses this power to sexually exploit the defenseless people under his care. There are multiple people over town with lingering trauma from his actions, including Daryll, and even Mickey, who has become a paranoid recluse largely in part to these actions, and has you get rid of the evidence of this abuse.

It makes these two particularly disturbing. Remy, Briar, all of the rest of them are disgusting, but they aren't beholden to you in any manner. I suppose it could be argued that Harper, as your GP, is also doing this, but it doesn't quite feel to the same degree to me.

Now, in reality, I can be counted on to be a thorn in the side of any authority figure. I have a real issue with it, and I do not like being controlled or told what to do.

In a sexual sense though?

Listen, something in my brain must've gotten twisted up along the way to adulthood because nothing gets my engine going quite like someone abusing authority. Fucked up to say, perhaps, but it is what it is. Maybe it's part of being the world's biggest brat, but who knows.

There is something enticing and utterly terrifying about it.

Bailey has access to you at your most vulnerable. It is only through him that you have a roof over your head, food to eat, and a bed to sleep in. He's a stern man who brooks no argument. You could say he's mostly the main antagonist; the one keeping you from any semblance of peace or happiness in this town by seeking you out and keeping you on a leash that he's got firmly wrapped around his hand. He isn't openly lustful-- quite the opposite, in fact. He probably has a 'I will not fuck my ward, I will not fuck my ward' mantra he repeats in his head.

Your presence is required at school, and Leighton will use any and all opportunities to exploit that, and he isn't shy about telling you. While not as much of an active antagonist as Bailey, he certainly is as evil. He seems to revel in using his position to meet his own.. uh.. "ends" and you aren't his only target in doing so.

Bailey is more difficult to provoke than Leighton. It requires a high ass seduction check to even get into the position of seducing him, and even higher skills to get him off. He wants to see you first and foremost as a cheque to be cashed, and he makes a point not to muddy his hands in the goods if he can help it. However, if you squint, all the signs are there that he isn't immune to your siren's call.

When you call, he comes running. Scream in the bathroom? Oh, he's fuckin' there. Disappear for a little bit too long? He seeks you out. You're a grown ass adult and his method of punishment is... bending you over his desk to spank you? If you do manage to seduce him, I think he lets a bit more slip than he actually intends to, saying things like "You've always belonged to me" and other possessive sentiments (most especially if you lose your virginity to him) that sort of give away that he's clearly thought about this more than once and is seriously going to indulge now that he finally has you.

Leighton on the other hand? Leighton wears his lust on his sleeve.

If you step foot in the brothel (whether to work there or just to get yourself a shiny fake ID,) Leighton is fuckin' quick on the draw to grab you, which tells me he's had his eye on you for a while. If you proceed to work at the brothel, he hires you the moment he sees you. Annoy him for even a second at school? It's spanking time. Be a little bit of a rascal at school? Get your tits out and lather 'em up! You're washing his car while he watches and twitches because he can't openly attack you here. Try to defend Sydney and say you'll take a part of the punishment? My man practically crawls out of his skin right then and there.

He has a high level of self-control, but it is easily possible to drive that man up a wall with the right actions, and it's pretty apparent from the get-go that he has his sights set on you in less than appropriate ways. Thing is, he really won't act outright similar to Bailey. He's more a voyeur than anything, preferring to watch and document rather than actually take part. It seems like a control thing for me, and also probably so he has dirt on everyone else while keeping his own hands relatively clean, but like with most things, I bend parts of the character in my mind to suit my tastes.

They're both difficult to outright seduce. They're both controlling, hideous fiends that abuse their vulnerable charges. They're monsters. Powerful monsters capable of foul, dastardly things.

Can you imagine being the weak point of that monster?

[theonetruegnome]

The sixth course

After literally seven hours writing and brainstorming and no sleep, it is supper time my children. Gather round! We now have the shift of everybody's favourite good boy, Dogday! Introducing

MunchyPup!

MunchyPup is the group foodie, and it isn't hard to deduce for yourself! The candyfloss dog always has something in his mouth, be it a light snack, second breakfast, a ball or just gum. His appetite and metabolism are frankly startling, being able to eat a full seven hobbit meals on a good day and only feel the teensiest bit overstuffed. Some people may think him greedy or that he's putting on an act, and yes, he does sometimes feel he eats too much, but he can't really help how fast his digestion is, so it doesn't bother him too often.

You may think that he ends up as a sort of side character in most of the gang's adventures, feeling more like someone's younger brother tagged along because mum said so, like so many of the pink critters, but Munch actually ends up being one of the focal ones in the group's activities. He, of course, brings the food for the group picnics and camping trips, as well as packed lunches for when some of the others go off on their own separate adventures from the main group, even with little notes saying 'We all love you' or 'I'll still be here, no matter what'. He also sometimes ends up helping Picky's shift (no spoilers!) plan the group's activities and, when necessary, discipline them for misbehaving, acting as her #2 in command.

He has also created diet plans for each of them to help with specific goals or issues. For instance, Conk has been ordered to consume more nuts and chamomile, as well as taking fish oil to help regulate his sleeping schedule. It doesn't help much, but Conk tries to keep it up because it's better than nothing. Leah has spinach, eggs and raw salmon on her plan, both to help with her anxiety and to try to get her to grow more, as she's very short due to years of malnutrition from being bullied. Callum is given chicken to keep his fur silky and smooth. MunchyPup tried to get him into mousing, also for his fur, but Callum couldn't bring himself to finish them off once he'd caught them. Munch then tired just serving the mice, but Callum still felt bad for the mice and didn't like the taste, so just sat there looking sadly and guiltily at his full plate.

All in all, Munch's home life is quite good! He has two younger brothers, one who is two-and-a-half and the other who is now six. His parents used to alternate staying home when they had only to raise him, but when his brother was born they both had to work almost all week to keep the family afloat, leaving MunchyPup at a very young age to care for the house and raise his brother, Darner, feeding, bathing and playing with him. When their third son was born, the family thought things could only get worse. However, Munch yet again took up the mantle and cared for yet another brother, this time with help from Darner. The split workload allowed Munch to get some odd jobs around town and, with three of the family working together and some days with everyone going hungry, they managed to keep the roof over their heads until his mother could find a better job. Sometimes, the two parents regret taking Munch's childhood from him by having Darner and Harper, but to MunchyPup they were some of the best years of his life, and the three brothers have grown only closer because of it.

and now, an after dinner trivia mint:

He can stand on his head for over forty-five minutes without vomiting and once did so for a bet with Eli. Eli conked out at 7 minutes 33 and when he woke up Munch was still upside down.

Once when the gang went to the movie theatre, everyone bought regular snacks except Munch, who brought a large punchbowl of sliced melons. He finished it before the climax of the film as well as at least half a pound of popcorn.

Despite encouraging the others to eat healthily and responsibly, his favourite meal is a tomato and French-fry sandwich with extra mustard.

As a joke, Conk and Dandy got he and Picky's shift (no spoilers) matching mugs for fathers' and mothers' day. They say 'no.1 Mom' and 'the best Dad ever'.

The first words Darner ever said were 'Buvver!' Munch still thinks about it sometimes and feels as warm inside as if he's drunk a bowl of home-cooked soup.

Finally, his charm is a sack lunch with picky's charm on the front (see below) and his scent is fresh mango.

[verdemoun]

please can we have a non-canon to the timewarp post about maeves death pleaseee😭

special thanks to australian television drama love my way which traumatized me as a young lad

completely normal average typical day. taking maeve to the park because sugar might as well be cocaine to her, lenny telling her to stay where they can see her because he's that parent while she's already sprinting down the footpath like a wild animal

lenny and sean getting a chance to gossip. circa 2013 so there's loads to gossip about. davey's out of jail again, wonder how long that's gonna last. for all the shit he talks about abigail's cooking, john marston in the kitchen both looks wrong and never produces edible food. isaac's course should be wrapping up soon! but bullshit that kid is graduating

when they come around the corner to maeve on the ground, sean laughs. it's not the first time maeve macsummers has tripped over her own feet, shouts to her to hop up and dust it off

lenny's already frowning when she doesn't immediately, because maeve can and has run on a twisted ankle before. having the same thought, sean awkwardly jogs a few strides and kneels beside her, her she's fine, then asking her if she's alright, nudging her gently

looks up at lenny with an expression of mulled terror that will haunt him the rest of his days as lenny finally gets there and kneels, realizing how pale his little irish warrior princess has gone. did she hit her head? is she bleeding? is she breathing?

huh?

is she breathing?

is she - jesus christ i don't fucking know

soon enough panicked shouting attracts the attention of onlookers, someone thinks to call an ambulance as sean sits petrified as stone and watches lenny start cpr

lenny in tears himself having to hold sean back from fighting the paramedics as they take over, and someone says her heart's stopped

one by one the gang hear, via call, or text, and trickle into a private hospital room with only the news maeve's been taken to hospital, she's not breathing

the absolutely guttural wailing echoing down the hall, that only pauses when sean has to take an ugly shuddered gasp of air, tells them before they see this tiny girl laying perfectly, unnaturally still on a hospital bed.

everything they've gone through, it's just... not fair. the youngest, the brightest, hair like fire and the energy like a spark to gunpowder, the first to be buried. no one else could have taken the bullet, or saved her. none of them should feel guilt, but they all do, all wish they could trade places as their lives fall apart.

some genetic condition none of them had a chance of understanding. a massive heart attack. 6 years old, and a massive heart attack

karen drinks, and sleeps, and wakes up to drink until she passes out again, for months. jenny runs away, vanishes like she isn't willing to wait to see if the grief of losing maeve destroys what good she had in her life.

sean and lenny sit on the roof together, where they used to find maeve sitting on nights she climbed out her bedroom window to stare at the sky because she had no fear of anything, and wonder what would happen if they threw themselves off.

sean believes in heaven. he thinks he'll see her again. lenny doesn't believe in anything, thinks oblivion would just be an end to the pain. both just sit, and do nothing.

[peach-and-bugs]

That is very good, feeling extremely gay is the best.

While I'm here (since I was gonna request this last night/yesterday but I fell asleep), do you have any thoughts/head cannons on Adult!Yellow Jackets (whether you include cannon adult YJ's by themselves or as well as the others that died ((Jackie, Laura Lee etc)) is up to you) as parents/how they are around kids.

Just a thought, since Mama Lottie is the only thing I've been able to think about for weeks and I'm super excited for chapter 2 (no pressure on releasing it of course), and thought this would be cool.

If not don't worry I'll 100% understand if you don't xxx

-🐝

Oh my gosh, this is absolutely perfect for me, thank you so much for asking me to ramble about the girls as moms/aunts. It's my favorite thing to think about. Some of these will expand upon what I said in my SFW alphabet

Yellowjackets as parents/with kids

tw: food shame/judgment with Jackie religious themes with Laura Lee (all positive endings)

Jackie

✰ Jackie had a very strict upbringing to me. She was obsessed with being perceived as perfect and model all the time and I can only assume that was instigated by her parents (mostly her mother)

✰ She seems like the type to have kids, but she's always trying to improve upon how she grew up because she knows how that pressure feels and doesn't want that for her kids

✰ For whatever reason, I see her as a girl mom whose last kid is surprisingly a boy and she's thrown for a loop because she's so used to having girls, and having a boy is suddenly so different

✰ but as a girl mom, she tries to be really open for her daughters. She wants them to see her as just a normal person because that's how they'll then look at themselves. She's also that mom on holidays or family gatherings that lets her kids have control over what they eat

✰ I headcanon her mom was one of those almond moms who was always talking about what Jackie was eating or looked like and she's not gonna let that happen to her girls. She wants them to have a positive relationship with food from the start so they don't have to learn it like she did. She's opening up the pumpkin pie at thanksgiving before dinner is served and giving each of her kids a slice and noone can stop her

Laura Lee

✰ Laura Lee is still very involved in her church and faith in her adulthood and I can see her wanting that for her children too, but she makes it very clear that that faith for them doesn't need to be strictly Christianity. I think she'd probably take them to church when they're little, but she'd be really open to letting her kids know if that's not something they want, they can tell her they no longer want to go

✰ I can perfectly envision her as one of those moms at pride with the free mom hugs shirt on and proudly holding up her sign about how god made everyone beautiful as they are. She's also taking in any kid who needs a roof over their head and a hot meal, no questions asked

✰ I see her wanting to fully or partially home-schooling her kids. Can't really explain why, but it feels fitting

Lottie

✰ We already know a lot of how I look at Lottie as a mom, given my mama!Lottie tag and fic, Bean Sprout, but I'll never skip an opportunity to gush about her more!

✰ she's the epitome of the crunchy granola mom who's taking her kid out to the garden with her, encouraging them to dig in the dirt in their rain boots and overalls to find worms and other bugs and taking them on hikes with the dog. She's got her kid and her dog with her all the time.

✰ She's the kind of mom who wants her kid to try everything at least once, but not in a pushy way. She thinks it extremely important for confidence development that her kid knows that it's ok to try and fail because you can always get right back up again

✰ She's also really good with other people's kids. She likes watching the way kids think and the best way to see and understand that is by getting to know them on their level

Misty

✰ Misty's awkward around everyone, and that extends to kids as well, but she's a little better with kids than she is with adults. She babysat back when she was a teenager, so she still knows a thing or two

✰ part of me can see her as a mom while another part of me doesn't. I think had the crash not happened, she'd be more likely to have or adopt a kid of her own, but in the crash timeline that feels far less likely

✰ that or it's a situation where she thought she wanted to be a mom when she was growing up because "that's what everyone wants" but as she gets older she realizes that no, she really doesn't want to be a parent

✰ but I do think she enjoys being around children to some degree due to her babysitting days

Natalie

✰ So Natalie is an interesting one because my immediate reaction is always no, in no world does she like kids, but then I remember that she's actually pretty chill with kids and we see that when she goes to Kevin's son's soccer game

✰ In no way do I think she'd have a kid of her own, but she can definitely be the favorite aunt, that's for sure. She's gonna teach her friend's kids about the reality of the world, maybe how to get away with some very petty crime (but if they actually do it, she'll be pissed) and she's gonna go and take them to do the things they aren't supposed to, like getting sweets before dinner

Shauna

✰ I think Shauna prefers younger kids. She's definitely having a hard time with Callie and the teen years, but based on how she talks about Callie when she was younger, she enjoyed the younger days

✰ She seems like one of those moms who had trouble making other mom friends, but it's alright because she's go her little girl keeping her company

✰ I feel like Callie was her little mini-me, which makes her growing up harder

✰ she's definitely one of those moms who kept a baby journal when she was pregnant, writing to her baby nearly every day and she managed to keep it up throughout a good chunk of her childhood. she's planning to give it to Callie when she graduates high school

Taissa

✰ Tai gives me the vibe that having a kid wasn't something she initially considered when she was making her life plan, but now that she has Sammy she'd never go back

✰ I'm really hoping we get Sammy and Taissa again in season 3 because when she's in a good space and caring for herself she really is a good and caring mother, and it made me sad to lose that completely in season 2

✰ I personally think Samone carried Sammy and Tai stayed by her the whole time, making sure her wife got the best care she possibly could when they were in labor. After he was born and she got to hold him, she got this overwhelming feeling realizing that yeah, she's a mom now and this is her little guy to take care of

✰ she's definitely an only-child mom to me. I don't personally see her wanting another kid. can't really explain why on that one

Van

✰ Very much like Natalie, Van gives off chill aunt or step-parent energy to me. I don't see her having kids of her own, but she's definitely really good with kids. The only way I see her as a mom is if she gets into a relationship with someone who's already got a kid

✰ She'd be willing to babysit her friend's kids as Aunt Van and she loves hosting them at her house for sleepovers. Breakfast is always fun at the Palmer house, and it's guaranteed to be very sugary

✰ I mentioned it before, but I can imagine her hosting summer parties in her backyard and grilling lunch with a bunch of kids running around playing with water balloons and squirt guns

✰ she's definitely got a box or closet full of cool toys for when she has kids visit. She also loves teaching them about the movies she liked growing up and taking them out on all kinds of outings

[adaines-furious-feast]

Please please please ramble about them ❤️

Yes!

These two could have been really good for each other. They absolutely aren't.

I think Jace has self confidence issues in everywhere but magic. Nobody can tell him he's not amazing at sorcery because he categorically knows that would be untrue. But Arianwen still manages to chip away at that confidence in a way neither of them realise.

"You're so good at magic for a sorcerer. If you just let me teach you some wizardry you would be so powerful. If we figured out how your magic does that..."

And if it was anybody else Jace would have been out of there the first time. But he is head over heels in love with this woman and he knows ("knows") this is Arianwen's way of expressing love but it still hurts at the back of his mind and has been chipping away for a while.

Speaking of making excuses, he has a whole book full of them for why it's ok that Arianwen is a shit mother. She's not a shit mother at all!

To me, Arianwen is autistic and if something isn't of interest to her she just cannot engage with it. She will talk for literal hours nonstop about her research (and this is what made Jace fall in the first place btw, been thinking about their first date for a while) but he can count on one hand the number of times she's mentioned her children.

She lost interest in being a mother a few years after Aelwyn was born and cannot bring herself to care. They have a roof over their heads. They have food. What more could they want?

And Jace could point out how damaging it is to them to have a mother who isn't really there and a father who is an abusive piece of shit ("that's how sorcerers are made, darling") but that would make her sad and he doesn't want that.

So the best course of action is obviously to help out Adaine wherever he can. He's the reason Porter doesn't know her name. He's the reason she still had spell components after the Abernants disappeared at the end of freshman year. He does care about her and is jealous of Jawbone but in his mind he's like "oh, well Arianwen will bring Her back, she'll kill Angwyn, we can be together and I'll be the dad Adaine needs and it'll be fine. The girls only need one present parent so Arianwen can keep researching and everything will be ok."

Of course that all goes out the window at the end of sophomore year when Jace somehow manages to convince himself its Adaine's fault that her mother tried (and was temporarily successful at) murdering her.

But even if their god plan had been successful, I don't know if they would have had a happily ever after. Because the biggest draw of Jace for Arianwen is that he's a puzzle, he's something to be solved and fixed. And until that happens, when he's "just" a sorcerer, she would always be embarrassed about their relationship. Even if he became a cleric of Cassandra, that's only marginally better than a sorcerer.

But if Arianwen solves the puzzle and Jace becomes the good little wizard she wants him to be, she's going to lose interest very quickly. She'll also lose interest in Cassandra quickly once she's no longer a challenge to solve, whereas he is dedicated to Her, so Arianwen finds him even more stifling.

There are points along the way that they could have gotten out of this mess and had a happily ever after, but instead Jace makes excuses and Arianwen is happily oblivious to the thoughts and feelings of others so they're doomed and I love them.

[sezja]

Febuwhump Day 17: Hostage Situation Fandom: Final Fantasy XIV Characters/Ship: Sanson Smyth/Guydelot Thildonnet, Nourval Lhorulgois, Raicheille Lhorulgois Triggers/Content warnings: Child abuse

Previously: Part One, Part Two, Part Three

Once Raicheille has scrubbed away the day's travails, dressed in one of Nourval's long nightshirts (fully a dress on her slight frame), and gotten some food in her, she promptly retreats to the bedroom for a well-earned rest.

It's just as well, Sanson muses; having dealt with the girl during Guydelot's abduction at her uncle's hands a year ago, he knows how much of a handful she can be - and how unconducive to conversation her boundless energy can be, at that. Last year, she'd successfully wrangled him into breaking Nourval out of gaol, and if he cannot deny it was a gamble that paid off, still, he'd just as soon avoid any more of Raicheille's wild schemes if he may.

Although he fears he may have already stumbled into one.

Is that better or worse, though, than the idea that she has no control over the situation?

"It was the Order's understanding," he says, breaking the tense silence that settles over the three of them once the girl leaves. "That your parents had no part in Astarnaix's plot, and that your sister could be safely returned to their custody."

Nourval nods, weary. "He wouldn't have told them, not after I..." He glances at Sanson, then drops his gaze, staring intently at the floor. "I'd known things must be terrible for her at home. I knew. But I'd assumed... I don't know. They'd never gone so far as to beat her, not while I lived under their roof. Raised voices, aye; locked in her room, aye - but starving her, beating her? She's too young yet for a serious betrothal." He shakes his head. "They've fallen out of favor with Astarnaix's cronies, plainly, and they're trying to win their way back with a good marriage. She's the only coin they've left to spend."

Guydelot looks deceptively calm, leaning casually against a wall. "Aye, and they're doing their level best to polish her up, never mind if it leaves a few dents." Sanson wagers only he can see the thunderclouds brewing behind his bard's eyes, and the fury hidden behind his relaxed posture. Guydelot may not like Nourval, but that doesn't mean he'll stomach what's being done to an innocent girl.

"I should have argued for custody of her," Nourval says, hands curling into fists. "After Astarnaix, knowing what she would be returning home to-"

"You were in no fit state to argue for anything," Sanson protests, remembering all too well how perilously close to death Nourval had been; if the man had even been conscious enough to protest his sister's return to their parents, Sanson would have been astonished.

Guydelot cuts in, "Even if you had been, I reckon they'd've been reluctant to let her stay with a man who'd broken out of gaol."

"He was released under the authority of myself and Commander Vorsaile Heuloix," Sanson replies primly, fighting a smile.

"Aye, so says the official report. Now."

There had been a great deal of back-and-forth, and for a time, Sanson had been certain he'd be stripped of rank, and Vorsaile too. In the end, discretion won out: the plot had been exposed and halted before any harm could be done to the delicate negotiations between Gridania and Ala Mhigo, and none could deny the role Nourval had played in it. House arrest seemed a fair compromise between allowing Nourval to walk free despite his past actions, and condemning him to prison once again despite his more recent heroics.

But house arrest is surely no place for a girl of fifteen... unless, of course, her home life is so dreadful as to make even this seem a paradise by comparison.

"Well," he says, quiet. "The question is... what do we do now?"

Silence.

It's Guydelot who breaks it first, pushing away from the wall. "Well, one thing's for sure - we can't just hide her here forever. I figure your parents know she's fond of you?" He looks at Nourval, who hesitates, then nods. "Right. So if this ain't the first place they'll think to search for her, it sure as hells won't be the last, either. And all they'll have to do is tell those nice lads out front that they're looking for their daughter, and wouldn't you know it? We brought a girl matching her description here a few bells ago."

"You'd aid her?" Nourval peers up at the bard, surprised. "After I..."

"What, held Sanson hostage? Tried to stir up a war?" Guydelot shrugs. "Your uncle did the same thing, twice as bad. I reckon bastard just runs in the family."

"Then-"

"But the way I see it, I owe the lass a favor or two." He smiles, flexing his hands; they may still ache from time to time, Sanson knows, but he's otherwise healed nicely from his ordeal. "Besides, look at it this way. This time, it's sort of like we've got the hostage, seeing as we've got what they want."

Nourval's face is mutinous. "I will not hand her back into their keeping."

"Never said you should. We're in a position to negotiate, is all."

Oh no. Sanson inhales sharply. "Guydelot. What are you planning?

[scratchandplaster]

Stack The Deck - Fair-weather company

CW: corny behavior, suggestive language, PTSD, aftermath of torture and injury, medical whump, mention of self harm, hand whump

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

The taste of cheap liquor still stuck to the roof of their mouths, and with the streetlights already guiding the way, they could stumble freely onto the driveway. Hardly trying to keep her laughter down, Amber unlocked the front gate of the massive family home and let the cold spring breeze follow them.

Her escort was close behind her when she stepped over the doorway, hands still clutching onto her bags. As always, they had swiped a lot more food from her friend's house party than intended, but that turned out to be his favorite part of the night.

"You good?" she slurred while turning around to meet him.

With a gentle push of his foot, Elliot let the door fall back into place: "Yup, I'm just gonna say hello real quick and get going. I got practice tomorrow morning."

This would be a terrible first impression, but better than bluntly running through a house he didn't belong in.

"My parents aren't home tonight," she disclosed, the news echoing through the foyer, "So no rush. The party doesn't have to stop."

Elliot knew that glance well enough, the one he got at family reunions. Or birthdays. Or funerals, for some tasteless reason.

"Oh come on, not when I'm half-shitfaced!" A tired huff was all he could muster as she grabbed him by his hands to lead.

"Please, baby..."

With that, he was dragged through the hall past the coat rack and over to an upright brown piano at the back of the living room. The simple white decorations didn't divert him from noticing how this room, apparently only existing for a couch and TV, was nearly big enough to fit his whole apartment.

"Still a no," he tried to mumble, only to be excitedly interrupted.

"Pleasepleaseplease!" sparkling eyes begged without ever losing contact, "You didn't want to do it at Rhys' place, it's just us now."

Amber hugged his waist tight, holding him close for a minute. Elliot knew what she wanted and also how it would end: with her winning, like she always did.

"Alright, alright," he pressed a quick kiss on top of her head. "But only one!"

Kicking his shoes off at the carpet's edge, Amber made him sit down on a dusty velvet stool to warm up to the old box. Elliot thought about playing some ethereal overture, an hour-long session that would only impress his conductor; or maybe the Faerie's Aire...

Let's hope I still got that ready on call.

Through his tipsy courage, he remembered a gift he prepared weeks ago, before their first big fight-

Why not, actually?!

Slender fingers pressed carefully down on the black and white keys, forcing the first notes of the evening out from the mahogany.

"I know you like this one. I had to secretly google the lyrics first, though," he admitted through a whisper.

A few wayward sounds proved what he had already worried about: that thing hadn't been tuned in forever. What a waste of art in this suburban ivory tower.

"But you know I can't sing for shit, so save your jokes for later. And if Sahra ever gets wind of this, she will not let me live it down," Elliot continued to sigh dramatically, "I mean, should I flop at the next auditions, maybe they can use me as a choir boy instead."

"You would get one of those pretty white robes, so think about it!" Amber too settled down on behind him, arms wrapped in sequin rested around his neck.

"You'll definitely need a safeword when this gets too sappy."

His hands practically danced from left to right now, filling the whole room with bone-deep warmth.

"How about something creative; like: Please, Elli, stop! My ears are bleeding!"

An amused scoff was everything she earned and unable to hide his smirk, Elliot cleared his throat one last time. As the familiar melody began to match the gentle hum in the back of her sweetheart's chest, Amber got more than she bargained for:

"True that I saw her hair like the branch of a tree

A willow dancing on air before covering me

Under cotton and calicoes

Over canopy dapple long ago"

Elliot must've had a few more drinks than expected, she wondered, giving how calmly he let the words bubble from his lips; usually she had to press up against the bathroom door to catch a taste of it.

"Must be felled for to fight the cold

I fretted fire, but that was long ago"

With a sudden spark, the pace picked up intensity, fingertips now slamming out the melodies from inside the wooden frame.

"And it's not tonight

Where I'm set alight

And I blink in sight

Of your blinding light"

How lucky could a girl like her be?

"Oh, it's not tonight

Where you hold me tight

Light the fire bright

Oh, let it blaze, alright"

To meet someone like this?

"Oh, but you're good to me

Oh, you're good to me

Oh, but you're good to me, baby"

To wake up with hands around her shoulders, holding her close. Not on her chest, ass or in between her legs. No hard, needy pressure rubbing against her back.

"With each love I cut loose, I was never the same

Watching still-living roots be consumed by the flame

I was fixed on your hand of gold

Laying waste to my lovin' long ago"

No, he never used her like this - even when she asked him to.

"So in awe, there I stood as you licked off the grain

Though I've handled the wood, I still worship the flame

Long as amber of ember glows

All the would that I'd loved is long ago"

The drone of the strings still reverberated deep inside them, as the last echo died down somewhere between these walls.

Meanwhile, Elliot was grinning like an idiot because of the puns and if not for free video tutorials, he would've missed out on this inviting opportunity. He really overdid it with the shots this time, even made him miss some dazed notes, but he couldn't say no to a shot of Apple Pie.

From the corner of his eye, he caught the glimpse of a teared-up Amber. Her head rested on his shoulder, shaky hands petting his back.

"That terrible? Oh god," he whispered against her hairline with a small chuckle. She dyed it honey-yellow this week, very pretty, like always.

"Shut up." Amber kissed a line down his neck.

He hoped the embrace they were caught in would last forever. It did, for a moment, until they both noticed a shape leaning against the doorway to the kitchen.

"Cute," Chase nodded, munching on his midnight snack of dry high-protein cereal, "if that didn't make you wet, I don't know what will!"

Lovely like always.

"You're so fucking gross," Amber hollered with an earring in hand, ready to be thrown. "No wonder that Taylor didn't screw you without getting paid first. Piss off!"

Elliot decided not to get in between the twins when they were... mediating. God knows he never had to bother fighting any sibling off, but all they got was the dirty "Make me, bitch!" Chase made on his way upstairs anyway.

Public Amber was back, it seemed. Not that she wasn't herself when they had company, just... different. Elliot wondered when he would get used to it.

Walking back to him, she let the grained lid lower itself down onto the keys: "Should've eaten him in the womb, honestly."

Besides her irritated huffing, one question remained, though: "Can you stay? I don't want to be alone tonight."

Of course he did, but the only downside threatened to ruin this too.

"Practice?"

Amber melted into the hands that slowly stroked over her forearms: "I wake you up, promise!"

As if that ever worked before.

"Okay then," he blinked towards the full bags that still leaned against the door frame, "just need to get this into the fridge first."

If it meant he would always be like this for her, Amber could wait for him. And if she let herself be herself with him, Elliot could learn to love all her other sides too. Together.

Always.

---

--

-

-

-

"Mr. Ribera?"

"Mhh?"

"Are you still with me? Just this exercise and you're done for today."

"Yeah, sorry..."

The off-white walls of the hospital room had grown homelike during the weeks he spent in and out of feverish delirium. Fahim from OT, more than an angel in his turquoise scrubs, patiently let his pen rest on the clipboard. He had been here every day since the fog inside his head had lifted, but today, Elliot wasn't sure if he liked the company. 

Sitting together at a small table, only a bit of equipment and a glass of water between them, this suddenly seemed too familiar in the worst way possible.

Yes, he needed the exercise, be it a walk around the corridors or a quick game of catch, but after all the training, he knew he was still where he started. And Fahim seemed to finally recognize this too.

Elliot had offered to be on a first-name basis, but even after agreeing to it, the OT was too polite for his own good. Elliot could try to read the annotations that waited to be shared with the doctors and nurses, long upside-down medical babble was all he could make out right now, ready to be filed.

Did he really want to know what it said? 

The sudden beep of monitors around them reminded of the fact that he was still wired up like the Christmas tree in the foyer, just less joyous. The tube of a catheter snaked up to his left collarbone, making Elliot accessible for whatever they wanted to shoot him up with. Liquid relief, if only for a few hours. He didn't press the friendly red button at his bedside often enough, especially not before therapy, to not alienate the outcome, Fahim insisted.

And why not so? He already hit rock bottom.

"Let's go, then," Elliot said, and his voice cracked weakly.

"Okay!" Fahim quickly picked up and let his attention rest on the board between them; nine holes in it, waiting for the unlucky patient to fill them up. 

"Now I’d like you to switch and use your left hand. You can use your other to stabilize the board. Ready?" 

Only one at a time and neatly placed, surely. How thrilling my life is.

"Same order as last time?"

"Exactly. Whenever you're ready." With his thumb steady on the stopwatch, Fahim waited for Elliot's left to start moving. It was still wrapped up in tidy white gauze but left his fingers free to move. His first three ones, that was, the rest stayed tightly screwed together.

At the click of the watch, Elliot had already picked up a peg between his thumb and pointer finger to carefully maneuver upright into the first hole. With this one placed securely down, the second made his whole forearm shake so badly, it nearly slipped out of his grasp in the first few seconds. With the iron grip back, the always present burning decided to let itself surface from under the chemically induced numbness. Quicker than anticipated, the flare shot up from his hand all the way to his neck, meeting where the thin plastic tube had been shoved in.

His face was on fire now too, from pain or humiliation, he couldn't tell. The white-hot prickle gouged itself deeper and deeper into his flesh, dancing around the wires that held the bones in place, making Elliot feel them straining the tight stitches ever so horribly. A pressure that didn't belong inside him.

The wooden peg fell down onto the board, rolling back towards its box.

"Take your time."

He despised Fahim for these calming words and hated himself instantly for it. The poor man was doing his job, wasn't his fault that Elliot was as strong as a bundle of lettuce.

Despite all efforts, he couldn't get a grasp on that little stick again and with another click of the timer, this chance was officially over. 

The therapist gave him a reassuring smile, just as empty as his words: "Great work, I think you can rest for today."

I performed Beethoven, you know?

Enjoying his prescribed rest, he watched Fahim move the pen on the paper, probably documenting every failure of the day. A peek could do non harm, Elliot supposed. He thought of how his music teacher made him play with the sheets turned upside-down, as a fun warm-up. What a cruel blessing this turned out to be.

Thumb opposition (✔, Kapandji 6)

Inferior+superior pincer grasp (✔)

Radial palmar grasp (✔)

Closure of fist (✗)

9HPT: r= trial 1 (16s), trial 2 (14s), l= trial 1 (✗ after 120s). Elliot could make out a big thunderbolt scribbled behind that, probably the first note he understood. Weakness, P unable to complete trial due to physical limitations.

Physical limitations. That sounded so nice; much more harmless than molten iron running down his arm and turning to ants under his fingertips.

"Let's try that again soon," Fahim finally looked back up to collect the arsenal of tools and elastic bands, "until then you need to take your walks and train your hand." His head bopped toward a small foam ball on his bedside table. Elliot had stomped on it a few times, to give it that well-used look the therapist needed to see.

"How long will it take?" he mumbled with a thin smirk on his lips.

"My colleague will be here tomorrow, so-"

"No, sorry. I mean...how long will it take?"

As he leaned back into his chair, Fahim was visibly trying to hold back a sigh, his ink-black beard rustling against the hospital's uniform. He let his view rest on Elliot for what felt like the longest five seconds of his life, warm and patient. Elliot hoped he wasn't a 10 on the annoying-patient-scale, but he just had to know-

"One day at a time."

Yeah, they were definitely on the same page now.

"Thanks for your time," Elliot tried to sound at least a little bit motivated as he walked with him as far as the tubes allowed, "See you on Monday."

--------

The first thing Elliot remembered was screaming at the doctors. How they had gotten him into the hospital was lost to the feverish heat of the first week, just as any questions or treatments he endured. Thank god he kept his stupid mouth shut, even though that didn't stop anyone from asking over and over again.

Elliot hadn't been lucid enough for a good enough excuse, so none ever made it across his lips, he didn't own that cheap lie to anyone. Any injury had to be self-inflicted then, more or less officially because nobody intended to get the police further involved. Too much paperwork, they had whispered.

Now, everybody knew it was his fault; that's what they believed, and he didn't intend to convince anyone of the opposite.

Elliot's mother had told him about how terribly he lost it when they brought him in for the first surgery. Embarrassing, really, but he couldn't think of what he went on about or why he would ever be so aggressive.

They treated him to some extra medicine, making him stay quiet for even longer. He recognized that weirdly trusted feeling after a while: whatever had kept him down during his time in that crack house bathroom was also flowing into him with a press of a button, conveniently placed in reach.

He was behaving himself since, of course, after that aimless fury got out of his system. They gave him a splint and biweekly counseling and OT... as a treat, he supposed.

The man in the bed to his right went home after a day, "Just carpal tunnel," he said with an apologetic smile.

Elliot was alone again, only surrounded by an ocean of flowers with some cards swimming in between:

"Get well soon!"

"All the best! "

"Visit Fleming Beach!" Huh?

In the short time living on his own, he wasn't able to make many friends around town; his parents visited nearly every day, but that only made it harder. Between her shifts, Elliot's futility had practically forced his mom to pack up everything on her own: the ultimate offense to the woman who had nothing but helped him.

They were all safe now, but somehow the relief about dodging his worst fear didn't show itself. It was just pain now, every day for every minute.

Two more weeks in here, according to the latest prognosis, and then straight into the unknown. Ambulant rehabilitation maybe, workplace retraining - something like that.

Alone again, until another blood sample or change of dressing became necessary.

Couldn't it have been something else? Elliot would rather be living with his ankle smashed to pieces... or skull, he didn't use its contents anyway, right? Otherwise, he wouldn't be in that fucking bed with a piss bottle on its side.

How much healing to get his life back?

It would only get harder from here on out, that's for sure; although he didn't have to feel all of this right now, therapy was over. So Elliot pressed the big red button down, letting the rush of numbness take him away, if only for a moment.

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

Thanks for reading 🤍 [Masterlist]

Taglist: @whatwasmyprevioususername, @canislycaon24

[julie-hollis]

𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐂𝐒

Name: Julie Hollis (née Chaichana)

Age: 34

Occupation: Owner of Shear Beauty/Cosmetologist

Affiliation: Neutral

Gender & Pronouns: Cisgender Female (she/her)

Faceclaim: Nattasha Bunprachom (Yoghurt Nattasha)

𝐁𝐈𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐇𝐘

tw child neglect

Julie Chaichana’s mom was only a mother in the loosest sense of the word. But she was the only parent Julie had and no one gets to pick who they're born to.

As a young child, Julie loved the constant cycles her mother went through. Each new hobby came with a new home, a new city, and a new man.

With each move, Julie found herself surrounded by more adults than children her own age. Julie buried herself in her studies and tried to be a good girl but she learned sometimes it didn’t matter how good she was, bad things happened.

Well-meaning neighbors noticed. They made some noise after Julie spent a whole week alone. Her grandmother was forced to take full custody, and Julie was forced to move to Paxton, Arizona. She was only ten.

Julie developed a bit of a wild streak as a teenager. Much like her mother, she preferred to spend time with her friends and school went on the back-burner.

Julie technically met her husband, Caid, in middle school, but they didn’t start dating until high school. He was supposed to go to college on a scholarship and Julie was supposed to move with him. She liked cutting hair and there were plenty of salons in the city.

Things didn’t work out that way, though. As that last summer came to a close, things changed. Caid was going off the college path to go to rodeos; instead of moving to the city, he would travel and while Julie could have tagged along things began to sink in: she didn’t want to bounce around for years on end. She didn’t want the uncertainty of another loved one constantly coming and going from her life.

So, despite the regret she later felt, she broke things off. They had periods of silence and friendship over the years, but the underlying tension always remained.

When a career-ending injury led Caid back to Paxton for good the silver lining was they were finally on the same page. They were engaged, married, and parents within the next three years.

Shear Beauty was an inheritance of sorts. She was a mother who was hungry and worked hard. When the old lady had to retire and only had a gaggle of sons who didn’t want the place, she gifted it to Julie.

Julie’s been working hard to keep the place competitive amidst the changes to Paxton. Some years have been easier than others, both professionally and personally, but Julie’s determined to keep going for her family and herself.

𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐓 𝐀𝐑𝐂

Julie likes to think that she doesn't want much out of life. She wants her kids to have a good life: loving parents who love each other, a couple of pets, food in their bellies, a roof over their heads. Stability -- that is all Julie ever wanted and most days she thinks the two of them have it all figured out. Her husband's involvement with the Cowboys has never brought trouble to their door and that's enough for her worry to stay at bay; it doesn't mean they’re gone, though. They might have a roof over their heads and food on the table, but money's never exactly been plenty for the Hollis family. As the town's climate begins to change, Julie finds herself with business offers that are difficult to refuse. For the past couple of years, Julie's managed to stand her ground and keep her eye on the business and her family. She'll do just about anything to protect the life she has. It might not be much to most, but it's hers and Julie will not let it go without a fight.

Inspiration

Camila Dunne (from Daisy Jones and the Six), Tyra Collette (from Friday Night Lights), Astrid Magnussen (from White Oleander)

Aesthetic

Her momma’s smokers cough, locks of hair dusting the floor, laughing while line dancing, a screen door screeching on the track, hoop earrings strewn across a scarred coffee table, work boots with slip dresses