#like you don’t see them if you play through the game but if you data mine

[probablygayattorneys]

I don’t know why, but learning Last Window used live action actors and somehow put those files into the game has rocked my whole world.

[little-diable]

Lightning - Tyler Owens (smut)

I mean, we all knew this would happen. I haven’t seen the movie yet, but I am DESPERATE for him. And as somebody who actually has something to do with studying tornadoes, I had to write this. I am obsessed with this fic, but I doubt this will get much attention, so please actually reblog it if you enjoyed reading it! Enjoy my loves. xxx

Summary: Tyler and the reader are chasing tornadoes together, but when they have to step back and find shelter, things quickly change between them.

Warnings: 18+, smut, piv, handjob, kinda enemies to lovers, teasing and all that fun stuff

Pairing: Tyler Owens x fem!reader (3k words)

Wind was blowing in her face, letting her strands dance in the air while her eyes flickered between her laptop screen and the dark sky. She was surrounded by her team, trying to ignore their shouts as they decided which direction to head in. (Y/n) was torn between too many options, not liking the way this afternoon was playing out. 

It was do or die, miss or hit one of the biggest tornadoes they had come across in a while. And yet the second cell that was currently forming gave off a somewhat more promising chance of catching enough data this time around. 

“Which way will it be, lightning?” Her breath hitched in her chest as he mumbled the words, front pressed against her back. The hairs on her arms began to rise, fully focused on his closeness, allowing her to pick up on the scent of his familiar cologne, on the way his breath fanned over the back of her neck as if he was about to kiss that very spot.

“Am I dreaming? Is Tyler Owens asking for my opinion?” She slowly turned towards the handsome man. Her eyes instantly found his piercing ones, getting lost in their intense gaze while he shot her one of his signature smirks. Fuck, if he weren’t such an asshole most of the time, she would easily give in to the pull she felt, allowing him to tug her towards his bed without having to fear about the aftermath. But if there was one thing (y/n) was sure of, it was that Tyler Owens was all about playing games, toying with a woman until he eventually grew bored. He was a personification of a thunderstorm, fast moving and never ready to settle.

“Don’t let it get to your head, pretty.” She clicked her tongue with a displeased expression tugging on her features. There was no time left to study him, to curse whoever had created him for making him look this handsome. They had to stay focused, at least until she got the data she needed for her project. 

“Alright, we’re heading east.” (Y/n) closed her laptop before reaching for her bag–the bag that was snatched from her grasp before she could protest. Tyler had slung it over his shoulder while tilting his head towards his truck, silently asking her to ride with him. 

On any other occasion she would have cursed him, would have told him to fuck off. But today, while being heavily understaffed, she needed any help she could get. And knowing that Tyler drove like the devil himself, she knew she had the best chance of arriving just in time with him by her side. 

His smirk grew wider the second she gave in, begrudgingly following Tyler while her eyes found the confused ones of her teammates. She only rolled her eyes at them, raising her shoulders and dropping them again as if she was wordlessly telling them that she was just as confused as they were, not seeing through Tyler’s game just yet. 

Silence filled the truck, only a few commands left (y/n) whenever they needed to make a turn, chasing down the roads to catch up with the growing cell. All while the others followed behind them, too slow to catch up with Tyler’s truck. Her heart was pounding in her chest, riled up by the anticipation of chasing another storm – no matter how many times she had done this before, (y/n) would never get used to the thrill, the moments leading up to seeing yet another beautiful though terrifying tornado. 

“You alright, pretty?” She’d never get used to the way Tyler called her, dripping with that drawl she loved more than she’d ever admit. (Y/n) didn’t look at him, fully focused on her laptop to monitor the path their tornado took. No word left her pressed together lips, trying to drown out the feeling of his concerned eyes flickering towards her every few seconds. 

“(Y/n)?” The use of her name ripped (y/n) out of her trance, letting her wide pupils find his. She only nodded at Tyler, knowing she couldn’t waste any time on the crush she could never speak of, preferring to take her secret to the grave rather than feeding his ego–only to end up with a broken heart in the process. 

“Guys, can you hear me?” She held the radio close, speaking to the others while refocusing on the map. All they could hear was rustling, unable to pick up on the reply that was spoken on the other end. Curses clawed through (y/n), she tried to reach their teams again, while swallowing the sinking feeling growing in the pit of her stomach. No longer could she see them in the rearview mirror, telling her that they hadn’t made it down the narrow path Tyler had taken.

The road ahead was muddy, forcing the truck to slither along while Tyler tried to avoid holes and ditches. With one hand clutching the door, (y/n) tried to hold still, not daring to bump into Tyler whose angry cusses filled the truck. Both had their eyes focused ahead, knowing that this had been the wrong choice, the wrong tornado to chase. They were heading straight towards their death if they kept going that way, knowing that without their team by their side, they wouldn’t be able to collect enough data anyway. 

“I hate being the one to say it, but we gotta find shelter, lightning.” Tyler’s annoyed groans left her nodding, giving him the green light to take a sharp left to turn towards the town close by. With the slimmest chance to find proper shelter, Tyler kept speeding along, seemingly having a spot in mind. (Y/n) was angry, at herself, at the road conditions, knowing that this situation should have played out much differently. And all she could do was trust the man she had always tried to hate.

“Come, follow me.” The truck was forced to a sudden halt. (Y/n) followed Tyler outside, holding onto her things while he reached for her free hand to pull her along. He guided her towards what appeared to be a barn, a building she paid no attention to as she studied the tornado, getting lost in its beauty for a second. “They built an underground shelter here a few years back, if we’re lucky nobody else had the time to find it.”

Tyler pushed her into the unlocked barn, letting the doors slide close again before he led her down some stairs. She didn’t dare speak, torn between too many emotions. All (y/n) could do was let go of a sigh while being ushered into the empty, dark shelter. It took her a while to adjust to the darkness, letting her hands move along the metallic wall until she found what appeared to be a light switch. She gave it a try, though without any luck, letting herself drop to the ground while Tyler stayed glued to his spot. 

If both hadn’t been too deep in thought, they would have realised that this was the first time they were sheltering together, completely alone without any nosy eyes watching them or listening to their talks. 

“We should have gone west, I’m sorry.” Her whispers filled the small shelter, luring Tyler closer who plopped down next to her. He fumbled with his phone to turn on the fleshlight, letting it rest on the ground to alight their surroundings. A few boxes were placed against the wall, filled with water and some snacks they hopefully wouldn’t have to use, praying that they’d get out of here fast enough to chase their luck once again. 

“There’s always time for another try, pretty.” Tyler reached for her hand to squeeze it before he could stop himself, forcing her eyes to focus on the spot where she now felt a buzzing sensation. She let her head roll towards Tyler, studying the white hat he took off with his free hand, placing it down on the ground, only to comb through his hair. 

“Don’t think I’ve ever seen you without that thing on.” (Y/n)’s whispers left him chuckling, a sound that momentarily managed to drown out the roar of the tornado. The howling was an almost comforting sound to them, after years of chasing them, well aware of every little detail. 

“Well, you’re one of the few who gets the honour, appreciate it.” She rolled her eyes at him before ripping her gaze off of him. Heat flushed through her at his teasing, a heat that only grew more biting as she realised that they were still holding hands. Her tongue moved along her dry lips, trying to find the right words to break their silence, silently hoping that she could cherish every single second of their time together. As much as she had once sworn to hate him while burying her crush deep inside of herself, she had lost all strength to fight against it, at least for now.

“Why have we never done this before?” Tyler seemed to feel the same longing, drawing her focus back towards him with his question. His eyes had an even more piercing touch to them now, having an invisible tight grasp on her soul she didn’t want to escape from. 

“Because you’re an asshole most of the time and I can’t stand being around you for long.” (Y/n)’s sharp reply left him laughing, a loud sound that had an addicting effect on her, leaving her chuckling while shaking her head at the man. 

“You wound me, lightning. Here I was hoping you’d finally let me take you out on a date, once this day’s over.” No longer did she laugh, the sound was stuck in her throat all too suddenly.

Did he truly mean it? Was he planning on asking her out? Or was Tyler playing yet another game with her? 

“Don’t fuck with me, Owens.” His hand darted out to grasp her chin, forcing her to keep her focus on him before she could even try to turn away from him. For just a second, she watched his gaze flicker between her eyes and her slightly parted lips. Once again her heart was back to racing, no longer focused on the howling wind, the sounds of things crashing outside, but fully and solemnly focused on Tyler. 

“Are you scared of this thing between us?” Once again, his question managed to rob her of the air filling her lungs, not expecting him to be this direct with her. A part of (y/n) begged her to cuss him out, to make fun of the question, to escape the avalanche that was about to roll upon them, but the bigger - more desperate - part of her, managed to gain the upper hand, leading her straight towards danger.

“Well, even though you enjoy riding your fears, I prefer to face ‘em. I’m not scared, not of this, whatever this is. But I’m fucking terrified of you toying with me and dropping me the second I’m no longer interesting enough.” He let go of her, only to pull her into his lap, making her straddle his stretched out legs. They held eye contact, wordlessly daring one another to move first, to give in to the pull that was as strong as an F5 they’d happily chase on any other day. 

“I’d be fucking stupid to mess it up with you.” She felt his breath on her lips, ghosting over her soft skin like he was giving her one last chance to pull away. A chance she wouldn’t take, letting it pass while finding his lips for a soft kiss that escalated within seconds. With his hand pressed to the back of her head and his other placed on her waist, Tyler held her to him while deepening the kiss.

Their tongues fought for victory, knowing that neither of them would back down from a fight against the other, urged on by their need to gain the upper hand. Soft groans and moans left them while their bodies searched one another’s closeness, knowing that this was something they wouldn’t tell others about, preferring to keep this as their secret. 

Her hands roamed his clothed chest, feeling his muscles beneath her wandering fingers while finding her way to his belt. She toyed with the buckle for a moment while her lips were still glued to his, knowing they’d have to part any moment now to inhale some much needed breaths of air. 

“You sure you want to do this in here, lightning?” His chuckles left her grinning, while holding onto the question she had wanted to ask for a while now. 

“Why lightning?” A kiss was shared between them, much softer than the one before. Her hand was still toying with his belt, slowly undoing the buckle to wordlessly tell him she wanted this much as he did, even though they knew that it was stupid and selfish of them to hide out here while their teams were undoubtedly worrying about them. 

“Well, the first time I saw you, you struck me like lightning, brightening my darkest day.” The explanation was cheesy, and yet it still drew heat up her neck. She could only swallow, smile at him and refocus on her hands. Tyler let her move, freeing his hardening cock while his impatient hands tugged on the buttons of her blouse, letting it pop open to expose her bra-clad chest. 

“Fuck, you’re a dream.” Her eyes flickered up to his while she spat into her palm, using her saliva to lube him up. Tyler couldn’t stop his moans from clawing through him, fully focused on the way he perfectly fit into her hand, pressed against the soft skin he wanted to feel against every inch of his body. His head rolled back against the wall, eyes closed and lips parted – offering a sight that made her walls clench around nothing, proud for being the one to make him feel like that. 

Her hand added more speed to its movements, squeezing him with just enough pressure to draw another raspy moan from Tyler. He allowed himself to relish in her touch for another moment before he gently though urgently grasped her wrist to stop her from moving. 

“Will you ride me, lightning?” His accent grew thicker with every syllable, leaving her shuddering while only a soft chuckle managed to leave her. She rose to her feet to shuffle out of her jeans, keeping her eyes focused on Tyler who marvelled at her as if she was the strongest tornado he had ever been fortunate enough to see, fully mesmerised by everything about her. She kept her panties on while finding her way back to his lap, knowing that they needed to hit the road soon, not giving them a chance to do this properly. 

“Wait, here.” He reached for his back pocket to pull a condom out of his wallet, letting her rip it open to roll it down his aching cock. Both their hearts were beating in sync, knowing that they were finally about to do something they had been desperate for ever since running into one another for the first time. No matter how much anger and hatred had once grown between them, it was now turning them from opponents to lovers–or whatever it was both were trying to adjust to. 

Tyler held onto her as she sank down on him, letting her forehead fall against his shoulder for a second. No words were spoken while they had to adjust, overwhelmed by the new sensation and the whirlwind of emotions buzzing through them like a storm hitting them both. With her hands holding onto him, clinging to the fabric of the shirt he wore, she began to move, fucking herself on his twitching cock with such a passion, Tyler feared he may never want to get out of this shelter again. 

“Tyler,” his name left her, a breathy whisper he almost missed, too far gone to focus on anything but their closeness. He palmed her ass, letting his fingertips dig into her skin to leave marks that would remind her of this very moment for days to come. His hips met hers, jerking upwards to make his cock disappear inside of her even deeper, drawing desperate moans from them which dripped with a need for more. 

“Attagirl, look at you, fucking yourself on my cock like you were born for this.” She moaned at his words, knowing that her thighs would start aching soon enough, begging for a new position to give herself the needed push to fall over the edge. “What? You’re already getting tired? I should have fucked you in my truck, make you scream my name while the world’s ending around us.” 

He pushed her off of him without a warning, leaving her dazed and confused for a second while watching him rise to his feet. With a hand stretched out for (y/n) to take, he pulled her up towards him–only to pick her up and press her against the wall. His cock was pushed back into her, stretching her walls while he fucked her with a fast pace that made both of them see stars. 

(Y/n) clawed at his neck, needing to hold onto him while he fucked her closer and closer to the edge. A cocky grin widened on his lips as he felt her walls tightening their grip on his cock. She was close, would let go soon with his name burning on the tip of her tongue, a perfect reminder that she was his from today on, glued to the man who she had once sworn to hate. 

“Scream my name, lightning, show them what a real thunderstorm sounds like.” If he weren’t buried deep inside of her, she would have rolled her eyes at him. But (y/n) was too far gone to care about his cheesy teasing, solemnly focused on her arising high and the name rolling off her tongue like a prayer.

And then she came, pushed into an orgasm so strong, (y/n) feared she’d never experience something like this again. It buzzed through every part of her body, stealing her breath as if she was drowning, forcing her heart to skip beats as if she was chased by someone or rather something. Tyler kept fucking her against the wall, urged on by her moans, the sounds he’d never forget again. 

Pants kept leaving him while chasing his own high, letting his skin meet hers with every ferocious thrust. And with one last “Fuck” Tyler came, relieving himself into the condom as his smirk returned to his lips. Both were heavily breathing, clinging to the other while coming down from their highs.

“I don’t know if I can walk back to the truck.” Carefully, he placed (y/n) back down on her feet, shaking his head at her with a soft smile thrown her way. Tyler pressed another kiss to her slightly swollen lips before both redressed, knowing that they had to get out of here and back to their team as fast as possible. 

“You know I’ll gladly carry you, lightning. I always will, if you let me.”

[moonchild9350]

Requiem of the Future

summary: in the future life is dismal as you live day to day trying to make it under the rule of the mega corporations. however, things may change as you and minho are tasked to steal data from a company called Onyx Corp. that can change the world. The only problem is you’re both enemies. in the dog eat dog world of the dystopian future, will you make amends for the sake of humanity or succumb to the feelings of hate.

pairing: Minho x fab!reader

genre: cyberpunk au, acquaintances/enemies to lovers au, sci fi au, angst, smut-18+MDNI

word count: 13.4k

warnings: use of guns, mention of blood, alcohol usage, soft dom. minho, clit play, unprotected sex (don't), creampie, multiple rounds, cum tasting, use of term kitten, teasing, other stuff I don’t want to spoil (as usual heh)

notes: my longest fic yet lol. but this was inspired by the video game Cybperpunk 2077! maybe a part two if you'd like? also i snuck hyunjin in here soo enjoy that lol. let me know! as always please let me know what you think of the fic, i love your feedback :)

If you enjoyed, please comment, reblog, and like ♡

Please do not copy, translate, modify, use, or repost this work elsewhere (or here) without my permission. ©moonchild9350 (2025)

divider by @animatedglittergraphics-n-more

You awoke with a start to the raucous of your neighbors arguing in the hall, their loud voices cutting the dream you were having short. You blinked a few times before rubbing your eyes as you groaned. ‘This is bullshit’ you thought as you were fully awake now, any promise of sleep steadily slipping away with each passing second.

There was a rustle next to you as a body turned over, letting out a grunt as they settled in once more.

“Rub it in why don’t you,” you mumbled as you swung your legs over the edge of the bed and stretched your back, sighing as you heard a few satisfying clicks.

Your ex boyfriend Axel was fast asleep in your bed after a night of frivolities, the soreness between your legs a reminder of the events. Yes, you know it’s not the smartest idea to keep letting him into your bed, but hey what can you say, he just fucks you so good that you feel the effects for at least a few days after.

However, you hated when he slept over, as it was a reminder of your stupid mistake. Locating his clothes, you picked them up and tossed them at him, smirking when he let out a grunt and ‘Fuck.’

“Rise and shine asshole,” you said as Axel sat up disgruntled, holding his shirt and pants to his chest.

“The fuck you do that for?” He grumbled, as he stayed within the confines of your bed.

“Because I want you out. I got shit to do.”

You shuffled through the clothes in your closet, settling on a pair of jeans and a black crop top.

“You better be gone by the time I’m done,” you warned as you turned on your shower, not bothering to look at your ex.

You stepped in the little cube and let out a shiver, cursing under your breath at the temperature. The water was never warm, maybe lukewarm at best if you were lucky. You’re lucky you even have an apartment with running water in the first place. Oh what an extra three hundred Neuro Credits could get you.

You quickly washed up, the dingy bar of soap you rubbed over your body was almost gone, you’d have to acquire some more soon if you wanted to smell decent. You ran water and some of the suds over your hair before rinsing it out, letting out a groan as you accidentally got the suds in your eyes.

Once you deemed yourself clean enough, you shut the water off and grabbed your towel, wrapping your body in the soft fabric. As you dried off, you peeked around the corner, checking to see if Axel was still in your bed, but smirking when you saw he was gone. You slipped into your clothes and then eyed your appearance, deciding how you wanted to fix yourself today.

Your eyes roamed over your wet hair, taking in the midnight blue strands sticking to your face. You’d have to dye your hair again soon. You had modifications to your temple, the metal designs carefully framing your face, adding to your appearance. There were bags under your eyes from the lack of sleep, as you have been picking up extra jobs these days to pay your rent and other things like basic necessities.

Your favorite part of you however were your series of four piercings, set perfectly along your cleavage. You decided on this modification on a whim, the piercing itself hurting like a bitch, but it added to your appeal and have not once regretted your decision to get them.

You pressed a button on the wall, a small panel opening up with a hologram prompting you to enter your command. You chose the makeup option and opted for teal blue eyeshadow and mascara, topping it off with a plum lipstick. Your option appeared on your face, not a smudge present, but the makeup instead perfectly applied.

Satisfied with your look, you slipped into your clothes and combat boots. You made sure your windows were locked and headed out the door into the dingy hallway of your apartment building. The walls were stained, and a light was flashing. You paid no attention to the couple that was still arguing, wraths of smoke filling the air as they waved their cigarettes in each other’s faces.

You took the lift to the bottom floor, stepping out into the bright sunlight as the city moved around you. People flooded past you on their way to who knows what, most looking dejectedly at the ground, mumbling about the lack of work or Neuro Credits.

So was life in Rosora. It was pretty common to have the most recent technological modifications to your body, the best gadgets and appliances, but satisfactory food was hard to come by unless you had rare items to trade or an abundance of Neuro Credits. If you were sick or injured, medicine or seeing a doctor was near impossible unless you knew someone or was someone higher up the food chain.

Rosora was a mega city, with millions of people calling it home. The city was divided into three zones, with most apartment buildings being located in Rosora itself. The business district where the higher ups who worked for Onyx Corp. was part of zone Farlan. Most people have never even been to that zone as only those who are somebody were allowed past the security checkpoint.

The recreation zone was part of Cyberlina, an area filled with entertainment centers, clubs, modifications centers, etc. This zone was pretty popular, the people of Rosora opting to spend most of their time there, wasting the day and night away.

Lastly was Songill, not the safest area which was saying something. This zone was filled with gangs and criminals, the buildings more shabby and rundown. If you weren’t a member of any of these groups, it was best to stay away, especially after sundown as there was a high chance of you being robbed, harassed, or even worse killed.

You were on your way to Cyberlina, as you needed to trade for food, your stash running low back at home. However, you realized you left your ID at Neon Lights, a club that you frequent on a weekly basis. The walk didn’t take long, as you lived on the outskirts of Rosora.

You made your way down the dirty walkway, side stepping others who were bent over the curb, vomiting whatever drink they indulged themselves with overnight. As you came closer to the center of the area, a large purple building came into view, outfitted with a yellow neon sign that read the name of the club.

You greeted the bouncer who let you in immediately, as you were on the list of guests for immediate access. You entered the dark space, only illuminated by the dim lighting that lit the walkway. Some synth beat was blaring over the loudspeakers, even though it was mid-morning and scarcely any people present.

In the center of the club next to the dance floor and various dancing decks, was a bar, outfitted with every type of poison you could think of in this god forsaken city. Wiping down some glasses was a tall man with long black hair and muscular arms, his tongue sticking out in concentration as he tried to get a stain out.

“Hey Hyunjin,” you said as you slid into a stool, placing your head on the palm of your hand.

Hyunjin looked up and smiled, setting down the glass he was cleaning. “Hey y/n, back so soon?”

You chuckled and sat up straighter, “left my ID here last night. Need it to go nab some food. Gotta fuel up before tonight’s job.”

Hyunjin frowned at your statement, his eyes immediately landing on your face.

“You still thinking about going through with that?”

“Of course Hyun. I need the Neuro Credits. I’d be stupid to pass up this job.”

The job in question was a heist with one of your acquaintances who you occasionally go on requests with. Astra was your groups arms dealer, a man who understood anything that had a trigger on it. He was perfect for this job as you two were supposed to nab a security chip from a dealer, as the chip can neutralize any opponent instantly, making it the most sought after security system in Rosora.

You’ve been doing odd jobs like these for years, since you were a teen in fact, after your family died from a virus that attacked their cyberware, rendering them brain dead. In this city, it was either fight for survival or die and the latter didn’t seem too appealing. You were recruited by Chan, the leader of your group who taught you the ins and outs of this life, making sure you knew what was important for your survival.

He also introduced you to Hyunjin, his best friend and also your age. Hyunjin has been there for you throughout the years, leaning a shoulder to cry on when things were bad, providing you a place to stay when you couldn’t pay your rent, and just being the closest thing you had left of family. He worried about you constantly, not necessarily happy with you taking on dangerous odd jobs, even if it paid the bills.

“I wish you wouldn’t, y/n, this could be dangerous. Something is telling me this one may not go as smoothly as the others.”

He slid over a glass filled with amber liquid at that time, your hand catching it instantly before giving it a swirl and draining it in one go. The bitter taste slid down your throat, leaving a burning sensation behind as it settled within you.

“It’ll be fine. We’ll grab the chip and get out. Easy peasy.”

Hyunjin was not convinced. He loved you like a sister and didn’t want to see you get hurt but he knew better than anyone that nothing changes your mind once you accepted a job. Instead of arguing, he reached behind the counter and handed over a small gray card.

You picked it up and smiled, satisfied that you had your ID back. You tucked it away in your pocket and stood up.

“Thanks Hyun. Catch you later yeah?”

Hyunjin nodded and picked up the glass he was polishing before. “Of course.”

He saluted you and went back to work. Now that you had your ID, you could get what you set out to do beforehand. Exiting the bar, you made your way through the alleys, sidestepping mysterious puddles and people lounging against the brick walls.

You eventually came to a little stall, a young woman sitting on a stool by it scrolling through a magazine. As you approached, she grinned and set the magazine down and stood up.

“Y/n! Long time no see. Came to see my wares?”

“Hey Nora,” you greeted as you began to eye her stock. “Need to replenish my food supplies.”

Nora nodded and walked over to a little pile of bars. “Here’s what I have. I’ll even give you a discount since youre a dear friend. All of these for two hundred Neuro Credits. Whadda you say?”

Shit, two hundred Neuro Credits? That would take half of your credits you had in your bank account. You quickly looked through your stash, searching for anything you could trade. It didn’t take long for you to come across an item you knew she wouldn’t refuse.

“How about all of these for fifty Neuro credits plus this medical kit?” You said as you selected the kit in question so Nora could view it.

Nora looked over your trade, her eyes widening as she took stock of what was inside. “Shit y/n, this is a top grade medical kit. Ya sure you want to part with it?”

Nora was right. This was a highly sought after medical kit with supplies that are useful for any type of illness or injury. You hated to have to part with it, but food was equally as important.

“I’m sure. So do we have a deal?”

Nora nodded quickly, not giving your trade a second thought. She accepted the medical kit and credits, before handing you the stockpile of food.

“Thanks Nora,” you said gratefully as you stored the wares in your pack.

“Of course, come back anytime friend,” Nora said as she slightly bowed.

You shouldered your bag and began to walk back to your apartment. The time to rondavoux with Astra was drawing near. You thought over what Hyunjin had said, how he felt this job would not work out how you wanted. You trusted his opinions and felt slightly nervous for tonight, a feeling you rarely felt since you entered this lifestyle. However, you pushed those feelings aside as this job would pay out well if it was successful.

Once back inside your home, you set your bag down before grabbing one of the bars that you acquired. Plopping down on the couch, you opened the packet and took a bite, savoring the shitty taste of freeze dried chicken and a mix of vegetables. Your phone went off then, the shrill tone loud in your otherwise quiet room.

You looked at the ID and saw it was Echo your group’s tech specialist calling. Sighing, you pressed accept and said, “Why if isn’t Echo.”

“Y/n,” Echo said with a chuckle, “ready for tonight’s deal?”

“As ready as I ever am,” you said as you finished off your bar.

“Well let’s go over the details one last time okay? You and Astra will be meeting with Sych at eight oclock sharp. When I say sharp, I mean it. He does not like to be kept waiting. The Neuro Credits will be in your account ready to transfer once you see the chip…only after you see the chip. Got it? Once the transfer is made, get the chip and go, no chit chat.”

“Yeah, yeah, be careful, watch your back, I know the deal Echo,” you responded as you rolled your eyes.

It was always the same spiel with him, warnings, advice, how to do your job. You knew his heart was in a good place, but after hearing it for the millionth time, it kinda got on your nerves.

“Listen, we need this chip so no fucking up. I will be with you virtually, sending you shots of the area so you know what and who’s ahead. Astra has already been briefed. He’ll be waiting for you at the meeting spot at six.”

“Thanks, I’ll be there,” you said before ending the call.

You looked at the clock and noted you had a few hours before you needed to meet Astra. Maybe you’d take a quick nap, get some sleep so you could focus tonight. As you were getting into bed, however, your plan was foiled as there was a sharp rap on your door.

You walked over and opened it, frowning as you noticed Axel was back on your doorstep.

“Hey baby, thought I’d come see you before you had to work tonight,” he purred looking at you expectedly.

Damn he knew you well. Sighing, you let him in, slamming the door behind him. You barely took two more steps in when he grabbed you by your waist, his lips slotted with yours hurriedly before spinning you around and bending you over the kitchen counter.

You let out a moan as he discarded your pants and dragged his finger through your folds and teasing your clit. You could hear the rustle of his pants as he pushed them down his legs to free his cock.

“I’ll make this quick baby don’t worry, just how you like.”

As he pushed in, spreading your walls, you both let out a groan, succumbing to the feel of each other. Axel fucked you hard and fast, not giving you time to adjust, the sting of not prepping before hand turning you even more. You gripped the counter as he hit your spot every time, bringing you closer to your orgasm with each thrust. If there was one thing axel did right, it was fuck you, as he knew what spots to hit, how to get you to your high fast.

He angled his hips so he could fuck you deeper and with this you let go, your pussy clenching around his cock as he unloaded within you with a grunt. He gave a few more thrusts before pulling out and helping you stand.

“There, better?” He asked as he helped you dress.

“Shut up,” you said as you slapped his hand away.

You walked to the door and opened it, waiting for him to leave. Axel shook his head and exited your apartment, saying “you know how to reach me,” over his shoulder.

Once the door was closed and he was out of sight, you rested your head on the door and closed your eyes. That would be the last time you told yourself. It had to be for both of your sakes.

You stole a glance at the clock and noticed you had an hour to get ready. Deciding to take another shower, you made your way to the bathroom and turned the water on. Quickly, you washed yourself off and stepped out, drying yourself and walking to your closet.

You settled on an all black ensemble for tonight’s job, sliding into your leather pants and a black bralette, finishing the look off with your studded, black leather jacket. You slid your combat boots back on and fluffed your hair.

You had a little more time before you had to leave to go meet Astra, so you made sure your cyberware was in good shape and all controls where they needed to be. You made sure to grab your gun and sheath your pocket knife in your secret pocket. Hopefully neither would have to be used tonight.

Satisfied with your look and deeming yourself ready, you placed your earpiece in your ear and switched it on, bracing yourself for the brief static it gave off once on. ‘Time to go,’ you thought as you left your apartment.

The night air was stagnant, the city quiet as many people opted to stay indoors once nightfall hit. The occasional car passed by you, music blaring as it rolled away towards its destination. The skyline was lit up, neon lights everywhere promising more than what it could offer.

You were happy for your jacket as it was chilly, a light wind present as it gently whipped around you. As you approached the meeting spot, you noticed Astra propped up against a pole, his phone in hand. He looked up when he heard your footsteps and straightened up to greet you.

“Y/n.”

“Astra.”

A simple greeting was all you two shared, neither one of you very talkative at the moment. You both understood the importance of tonight’s job and were both a little nervous as to what could come. Astra was a good partner to have, always looking out for you and he was an expert marksman. At six foot even, he towered over most opponents, who cowered away in fear but occasionally, one thought they could challenge him and that’s when his weapons would come out.

You knew he was strapped, his babies hidden in the least expected of places.

“Ready to do this?” He asked, giving you a nervous chuckle.

“Let’s do this.”

You both headed towards a parking garage and stopped at one of the cars. It unlocked as you approached, recognizing your profile. You got in the driver’s seat as Astra got in as a passenger. The car turned on and adjusted its settings to your liking before backing out of the spot and merging onto the road.

The drive to Songill was quiet, neither one of you offering up a single word. The tension was palpable, the air filled with the possibilities of how tonight could go. You watched as the buildings passed by, the lights a blur as the car sped down the street.

As you approached the destination, Echo’s voice could be heard through the car’s speakers, “you’re approaching the meeting spot. I don’t see but three people there, but of course be on your guard as backup could be hiding in the buildings. Remember the plan, do the exchange, get the chip, and get out.”

You and Astra hummed in agreement and opened your doors as you were now at the spot. As you stood up, two men approached you with scowls on their faces.

“Y/n?” The one closest to you asked. You couldn’t help but think he reminded you of a tiger, an animal ready to pounce.

“The one and only,” you responded with a smirk.

“Follow me.”

You followed the two men over to a fire, sitting down on the stump that the man gestured to. Astra sat right next to you, his eyes set on the men in front of you. There was a moment of silence as the other’s sat down, that is until a burly man walked out of the nearest building.

He seemed like one not to mess with as he was buff and his body was littered with scars, including one that ranged from his scalp to his chin. He sat down in the chair across from you with a grunt.

“Well, if it isn’t the famed y/n. Finally get to meet you.”

You narrowed your eyes at the man, not buying his pleasantries. You wanted to get this over with so you could go to bed at a decent hour tonight.

“Cut the bullshit, you got what we want or not?” you demanded.

Sych sized you up as he frowned, clearly not happy that he was ignored. “Now, now, why rush right into business. Why don’t you sit and chat a while huh? Then we can get to it.”

“Nah, we’re gonna get to business now. Unlike you, I like to get to bed early.”

Sych chuckled at this, a loud laugh that echoed in the alley you all were in. “All business and no fun huh? Relax darling, I have what you want right here.”

You watched as he rummaged in his pocket and pulled out a small box. He carefully uncapped it and presented the goods inside. It took everything in you to not leap for the box and make a run for it, however, Astra placed a hand on your knee as if he could read your thoughts. You took a deep breath and let it out.

“Here it is, the most high tech security system of our time. Pop this beauty in and anyone within a fifty feet radius will be analyzed and either let through or eliminated. Now my question is, you got the funds?”

“Of course we have the funds,” you scoffed, offended that he would imply that you didn’t.

You readied the agreed amount, presenting the number to Sych. He looked over the details before smiling.

“Excellent, go ahead and transfer it over.”

You nodded and pressed send, the amount immediately leaving your account and ending up in his. As soon as he confirmed the Neuro credits were there, he handed over the chip. You grasped the box tightly and put it in your pocket for safekeeping and made to get up. The job was done so there was no need to hang around.

However, as you began to walk away with Astra in tow, you were stopped in your tracks by two of the men. You were not sure why they stopped you both, but you could feel your temper rising at their actions.

“What the fuck is this?!” You exclaimed, “get out of our way.”

“No, no, no y/n. There seems to be a problem,” Sych said.

You turned around and stared at the man, confused at his statement. He smirked at you, his face screaming ‘I caught you.’

“You thought you could infect my cyberware with that transfer didn’t you? Cause that’s what seems to be happening. Good thing I have modifications to protect against just that.”

“The fuck are you talking about? There’s no virus with that transfer,” you countered, but your voice wavered as you were unsure of yourself.

‘Echo’ you thought. This screamed your group’s tech guru all over.

“I don’t like being fucked over y/n. Here’s what we’re going to do. You’re going to hand over that chip back and then leave or we will kill you. Sounds like a deal?”

Hand the chip over? That would not be an option, you needed the Neuro credits so you could survive, you were banking on it. You could feel Astra begging you to see reason from beside you, but you ignored him and continued to stare at Sych.

“Absolutely not. We had a deal. We trade the chip for 300,000 Neuro credits. You got the funds, we have the chip, so we can leave.”

You turned to walks towards your car when it happened. There was a brief silence and then a loud crack followed by your scream piercing the air. Another crack resounded in the area, causing you to scream again. You fell to the ground, an agonizing pain in your right leg and lower abdomen causing you to howl.

You stared at the sky as more cracks filled the air and men screamed. Your vision went in and out, the buildings above you turning fuzzy with each passing moment. You could hear a ringing in your ears, the sound so loud, it was driving you insane. Your hand went to your belly and you felt something cold and liquid. With what little strength you had, you eyed your hand, letting out a groan as you recognized your hand was covered in blood.

You laid there in agony, thinking this is the end, you were going to die. And as the night sky slowly disappeared, you slipped into the dark, your mind going black and your body relaxing as the pain dissipated. — — You heard soft music playing and you were warm and comfy. Maybe this is what heaven feels like or hell or wherever the hell you go after you die. You don’t want to open your eyes, not yet. You want to stay in this bliss for a little longer before you have to face the reality of your death.

However, you suddenly felt a presence near you, murmuring your name. That voice sounded almost like Hyunjin’s…but it couldn’t be. Not unless he died too. Your eyes snapped open and looked around, recognizing you were back in your apartment.

Hyunjin was sitting on the edge of your bed, looking at you with concern as he held a wet rag in his hand.

“Y/n! You’re awake!”

“Hyunjin?” You croaked, your voice not quite working.

“Shh, don’t talk. You just rest. I’ll get you some water,” Hyunjin said as he fussed over you.

You watched as he scampered over to the sink and filled a glass with water, just to hurry back to your side. He helped you sit up, your body stiff from lying down.

“Easy now,” he cautioned as he helped you drink.

You groaned as the water went down your throat, quenching your thirst. Once you were done, Hyunjin helped you get comfortable again, fluffing your pillows, making sure your blankets were tucked under you properly.

“Hyun, what happened?” You asked, curiosity getting the best of you. After all, last thing you remember, you were bleeding out on the street after the deal went wrong.

Hyunjin hesitated for a moment before saying, “you were shot multiple times, in the belly and leg y/n. You almost bled out but were able to be saved after reinforcements were called in. You’re patched up for the most part, but things probably won’t be the same for you due to your injuries and not really having the care you need…cause you know it’s expensive and there’s not really many surgeons here in Rosora.”

So you were shot, you thought so but in the chaos of it all you weren’t sure. And you weren’t able to get proper care, of course not, as you were on the bottom of the pole, broke, not anyone of any significance. Despite this, you wondered how the deal went wrong? You remember Sych saying there was a virus embedded in the transfer. Did someone from the group try and hack into his system?

You mind was wandering, going over everything you could remember, so much so that you didn’t hear Hyunjin call your name.

“Y/n!” He said again, snapping his fingers in front of your face.

You looked at your best friend and chuckled at the face he was making.

“Don’t worry about that okay? You just focus on resting and recovering. I have to run out and check on my bar, but I’ll be back a little later. Call me if you need me okay?”

You nodded and watched him get up and head out, the door shutting softly behind him. This world was really messed up, so much so you were screwed if you weren’t rich. Your family faced this dilemma too and look how they ended up. You were fuming, your anger rising as you spent the time laid up in bed. You wished you could do something about this misery, help bring down the higher ups. But how? How could you, one person do that?

You were interrupted by your phone ringing, the ID saying it was Echo.

“Hello?” You said, waiting for the man to say something.

“Oh! You’re awake! Good, I was hoping you would pull through after that disaster of a job. It’s okay though cause I have another proposition for you. One that can pay out big and bring down the rich dogs.”

At that your interest peaked, wanting to hear more of what he had to say.

“Go on,” you said, settling in bed more.

“We need you to break in Onyx corp. and steal data, data that can be used to come up with a cure to illnesses, take care of injuries, help ailments in general for all, no matter your status. This could be a huge breakthrough if we can get our hands on this. And the payout is huge. Fifty million Neuro credits. So what do you say?”

This would be a huge breakthrough, you had to agree. A way for everyone to be able to have medical care no matter their status? You were hooked just on that prospect as you sit in your sick bed yourself. You couldn’t help but imagine what your family would be doing today if they had access to such a thing. And all it would take is a simple upload to your cyberware and you’d have instant care.

Also, the payout was a huge bonus. You couldn’t help but imagine all the things you could buy and do with that many Neuro credits. You think you would have learned from taking this high stakes deals, but there was too much riding on this one. You really could be more than a cog in the wheel with this job. You’d regret it if you didn’t take it.

“Okay, I’m in,” you said simply, excitement brewing within you.

“Excellent! I’ll let Chan know. Oh and you will have a partner for this, you haven’t worked with him yet, but he’s good at these type of things.”

A partner? And one you haven’t worked with? Maybe things were too good to be true.

“Who is it?”

“His name is Minho. He joined the group about two years ago but usually sticks to high paying job, like this one. He’ll be good for this job. Only thing is, he can be a little stubborn, but don’t worry, you’ll be able to get around that I just know it. I’ll be in touch with the details of the job soon. Oh and Minho will stop by and visit you soon so you can get acquainted with each other.”

Before you could say anything else, Echo hung up leaving you speechless. Minho. He sounded like he was going to be a pain, but what could you do. You’d have to put up with him no matter what so you can get this data and the credits.

Maybe things were looking up for you. Maybe this would be your second change at life and one to make a difference at that. And hopefully this Minho will see it the same way as you do.

A week passed with you sitting at home recovering, slowly gaining your strength back. Hyunjin stayed by your side, caring for you when he didn’t have shifts at the bar. It was nice to spend time with your best friend, especially when you were sober and not shit faced after a night out of forgetting whatever job you most recently completed.

You had yet to tell him about this new job you took on, knowing he wouldn’t be too keen to accept it. But, he’s your best friend and you’d have to tell him at some point.

Both of you were snuggled on your couch, watching some lame show while snacking on some protein bars. You felt cozy and warm, sleep threatening to take hold as time went by. However, you forced yourself to stay awake as you needed to tell Hyunjin about the job. It was now or never.

“Hyun? Can I tell you something?” You asked, looking up at his face.

He looked down at you and lightly gave you a squeeze, “Of course, what’s on your mind?”

“Well, once I’m healed, I kinda took on a job…”

You let that sink in, the silence getting longer with each passing second. Hyunjin furrowed his eyes at your statement and you’re sure he was trying to make sure you said that you were accepting jobs again.

“Y/n, you just got hurt because of one of these jobs, shot multiple times may I add. Why do you want to continue putting yourself in danger?”

You let out a sigh. Of course he wouldn’t understand but maybe you could talk it through.

“This job is really important. Especially because I just got injured and you know... given my family history. This could help out all of humanity Hyun. I have to take this.”

Hyunjin was quiet for a moment, considering your words. He knew how much this meant to you and how much your past has affected you and now this. If you believe this a job that could help not only you but humanity as a whole who was he to stop you.

“Okay…just,” Hyunjin paused for a moment before pulling you closer. “Just be careful.”

“Always Hyun,” you whispered as you held him close, burying your head in his chest, breathing in his scent that has always calmed you.

You’d come back to him. You made a promise to your best friend and it was one you’d intend to keep.

-- --

The next day, you were cleaning up your space and airing out the place. It had been a while since you had tidied up a bit, being out of commission and all. You hummed the song that was playing on the radio and wiped down the table, a soft breeze blowing through your window and cooling off the room.

Your wounds still bothered you occasionally, but for the most part they had healed, as much as they could at least without extensive treatment. You had some additional scars now to your appearance, a wicked scar present on your leg and one on your belly. The faded pink spread across the skin in a delicate pattern, adding to the aesthetic of your appearance.

As you began cleaning your shower, there was a soft but demanding knock on your door. Muttering to yourself, you set your towel down and walked to the door, opening it with a frown on your face.

On the other side was a man with purple hair, the strands long and framing his face. His brown eyes bore into yours as he stood with his arms crossed in front of his chest. He was grimacing, almost as if he realized he was at the wrong apartment.

“Who are you?” You asked in a not so polite tone. He interrupted your cleaning after all.

“Minho,” he said simply as he continued to glare at you.

You regarded this man called Minho, eyeing his muscular arms to his toned legs. He had a scar that spanned from the right side of his scalp and ended just below his eye. He had modifications as well, the metal adorning both sides of his cheeks. He was decked out in black, his black tank hugging his torso and skinny jeans snug against his thighs. He had a couple of piercings in his ears, the silver reflecting off the light coming from your apartment.

He was beautiful, this you couldn’t deny, plus something about him made you want to jump him, squeeze him, fuck…

“Earth to Y/n, you gonna let me in?”

You snapped out of your reverie and stepped out of the way. Minho stepped into your apartment, eyeing your shitty sanctuary with curiosity. Before you could notice though, his face returned to a scowl.

“Well we’re working together and I told Echo I’d stopped by so here I am. He suggested we discuss a training schedule to get you back in the game since you know…” He said as he gestured toward your legs.

This little shit. What was he implying? That your injuries would slow you down? You felt you blood boiling, your face heating up as your temper rose.

“You little…” you began but was stopped mid-sentence as Minho held up a hand.

“He also said you’d most likely be ticked off. Listen we need to work together so we can get this done. I don’t care what happened to you, I just want to train, get this job done and then never have to see you again.”

You crossed your arms at that and huffed. You really didn't like his attitude, his sharp responses and snarky behavior getting on your last nerves. You just met the man, but you knew you hated him and seems as if the sentiment was shared.

“Fine.” You said as you turned around muttering 'asshole' as you went back to scrubbing your shower.

You imagined it was Minho’s head as you scrubbed the tiles, imagining erasing that smug look off of his face. You were lost in your own world when you felt a presence behind you.

Turning around you looked up and noticed Minho staring at your ass.

“Uhh can I help you?” You asked with a smirk.

Minho continued to look at you, not even trying to hide the focus of his attention.

“No, not at all. Keep cleaning.”

You shook your head and turned back to scrubbing, putting your all with each stroke. You decided to tease him, sticking out your ass even more so he could get a good look at something he’d never have. You wiggled your hips and arched your back, presenting for the man standing behind you.

Once you were done, you hosed the shower down and turned the water off. Turning around, you chuckled as you took in the sight of Minho. His eyes were dilated and breathing heavy. Your eyes traveled down briefly to his pants and widened as you noticed a thick bulge threatening to pop out of his pants. Damn he must be big.

Quickly you looked back to his face, blushing as you noticed he saw you looking.

“I’ll see you tomorrow bright and early kitten.”

Minho turned on his heels and exited your apartment, the door closing softly behind him.

What just happened. You stood there stunned, not sure what to think or do after that introduction. This was going to be fun you thought as you walked to your kitchen to grab a snack.

-- --

True to his word, Minho was at your door bright and early, ready to train. You weren’t as enthused, but begrudgingly grabbed your bag and followed him out the door and down the hallway to the lift.

Once on ground level, he walked over to a sleek black car, opening the drivers side and getting in.

“Well get in,” he said impatiently as you stood on the curb.

You opened the door and slid in, ogling the plush leather seats and interior of the car. Everything inside was clean, almost as if it was brand new.

The ride to the gym was silent, Minho staring straight ahead as he drove to Cyberlina. He pulled into a parking spot and got out, waiting for you to exit as well.

He walked up to the gyms door and ushered you inside, and made his way to the front desk.

“Lee,” he said to the receptionist, who nodded and walked away guiding you two to an empty but private practice room.

Minho stepped in and began prepping for your session, his back to you the entire time. Once he was done, he noticed you were just standing there.

“Why are you just standing there? Need some help kitten?”

You looked at him noticing the smirk on his face. You rolled your eyes and began to unpack your bag. This man was going to be the death of you.

Practice went on and Minho helped you rebuild your strength, assisting you with stretches and various drills. You were definitely out of shape and as much as you wanted to admit he was wrong about needing to help you train, you had to say this was needed as you had lost a lot of mobility since your last job.

As practice came to an end, you could barely walk, your muscles sore and tense from the intense session. You were more than happy to sit down and catch your breath for a moment.

Minho noticed your predicament, concern on his face that maybe he worked you too hard.

“Are you okay?” He asked, his eyebrow raised as he assessed you.

“I’ll be fine,” you said with a wave of your hand. “Let’s go.”

Minho nodded and you both walked back to his car. He drove you back to your apartment in silence, focusing on the road as everyone was out and about making their way to clubs and bars to get drunk once again.

At your building, you bid him goodbye and made your way home, happy that there was a lift instead of stairs, as you’re not sure you would have made it otherwise.

Once inside, you turned on the water and stripped your clothes off and stepped under the stream. You quickly washed yourself and then got out, dressing hurriedly before collapsing in bed.

As soon as your head hit the pillow, you were out, tired from exhaustion. Hopefully you’ll gain your strength back and then you’ll be back to how you were before the accident.

-- —

Training continued, Minho went hard on you and pushed you to your limits. Everyday you found yourself getting stronger, your stamina building. You didn’t arrive home exhausted anymore but now energized, ready to keep the action going.

Another thing that changed was your relationship with Minho. You both have now developed a tolerable bond with each other, both of you falling in step comfortably. He still pushed your buttons and carried the attitude, but you found a pleasurable feeling was present whenever he smirked at you, his plush lips rising up as he teased you.

The tension was so palpable at times that you felt like you couldn’t take it, needing to get some air to calm down.

Today was one of those days after Minho helped you with your aim, his soft hands helping you prop your arm how it should be. His palms were running over your hips to adjust your stance, the feeling electric as his hands touched your skin.

Your panties were soaked with your arousal, the cotton sticking to your skin. You felt your vision go fuzzy, as you stared at your target, Minho's warm breath tickling your neck as he waited for you to pull the trigger.

You refocused, needing to get him away from you as quick as possible. You squinted your eyes briefly, lining up your field of vision on your target. Taking a deep breath, you slowly let it go before pulling the trigger, your shoulder jerking slightly with the recoil as the bullet hit the center of the dummy’s chest.

“Very good kitten,” Minho whispered in your ear causing shivers to run down your spine.

You swallowed and slowly turned around to face him, blush tinting your cheeks as he stared into your eyes. You set the gun down on the table, so that way no one’s legs would get shot off.

“What’s wrong hmm?” He cooed as he stepped closer. “You’re always so feisty and have something to say, cat got your tongue?”

You shook your head no, words eluding you as he was standing right in front of you. You closed your eyes, succumbing to his scent and his warm hand as it found its way to your cheek, slowly stroking the skin as you took shallow breaths.

A moment passed and then two and then you felt his lips on yours, soft and gentle as if he was testing it out. However, the dynamic shifted suddenly as he bit your lower lip and deepened the kiss, pulling you flush to his body.

You let out a moan as his hands roamed your body and traced every curve as if he was memorizing the dips and turns of your body. He licked your bottom lip, and shoved his tongue into your mouth to dance with yours. He kissed you slow but with passion, his hard on evident within his pants as he rutted into your thigh.

You rolled your hips against him as you clutched his shirt but all too soon he pulled away causing you to let out a whine.

“Needy kitten,” he teased as he ran his thumb along the corner of his lip, collecting any spit that was leftover.

“Let’s get you home hmm,” Minho said as he turned around to pack his bag.

The car ride was tense, neither one of you speaking after your encounter. You watched the buildings pass by out of your window, eyeing the run down corners, filled with crowds of people huddled together with bottles in their hands.

However, as you stared at them, your mind went to the kiss, how his lips felt on yours, gentle yet demanding. How his hands felt on your body like a brand that was searing your skin, leaving it to feel hot and tinglingly once he removed his hand.

Your mind was still on him when you felt a hand on your knee, shaking you out of your thiughts.

“We’re here,” Minho said softly.

You looked out the window and sure enough he was right, as you recognized the tattered building that you called home. You got out of the car without saying a word and made your way to your apartment.

Once inside, you quickly changed and grabbed a glass to fix something strong and taking a sip followed by tossing back the rest, the liquor sliding down nice and easy. You filled your cup up some more right as someone knocked on your door. You knocked the drink back and went to open the door.

On the other side was Axel, smirking as he usually does when he shows up at your doorstep. Maybe it was the liquor that was sitting nicely on your belly or maybe it was just your long, complicated history with your ex or it could also have been the thought of that kiss you shared with Minho but you pulled Axel in your lips locking with his instantly in a heated kiss.

You kicked the door shut and tumbled through your apartment, both of you fumbling to get your clothes off as quick as possible. You succumbed to the lust, as Axel pleasured your body, your mind set on a certain purple haired man instead.

And as your orgasm hit, you felt an ounce of shame as you couldn’t help but wish it was Minho’s name you were screaming instead of this dead beat on top of you.

You let your ex stay the night, needing company. You knew you’d regret it tomorrow but consequences be damned. As you stared at your reflection in the mirror, you couldn’t help but notice how tired you looked as dark circles were under your eyes, your modifications making you look like a zombie instead of the typical you.

You splashed some water on your face, flinching as you heard Axel behind you, his arms snaking around your waist causing you to cringe.

Right as you were about to escape his grasp, there was a knock on your door. You quickly scampered over, not caring that you were only in a tank top and skimpy panties.

As the door opened, you gasped at your visitor. Minho was standing there, two coffees in hand, and his eyebrows raised at your appearance.

“Well good morning to you too,” he teased, his eyes running down your body and back up.

He stepped in your apartment, ignoring how you were silent as you were still stunned. However, he stopped short, his eyes on Axel who was frozen in place as well.

“Who the fuck are you?” Minho asked, his temper rising at the thought of another man’s hands on you.

Minho knew he had no right to be angry, it’s not like you two were together. However, over the last few weeks, he’s felt a change in his feelings. His heart raced when you walked in the room, your feisty demeanor turning him on as you clapped back at whatever he just said.

You were absolutely stunning too which was icing on the cake. And here you were, in nothing but a tank top that didn't hide anything from the imagination and panties that might as well shouldn’t be there, with a man that’s not him.

Minho glared at the asshole, taking in his piercings and tattoos and his douche bag of a look. He turned to you as he saw panic on your face. Good, you should feel like you just got caught.

“This is Axel….he’s my ex.”

Minho stared at you in shock before looking back at the man in question.

“Him? He’s your ex? Oh kitten you could do so much better.”

You stared at Minho, ready to clap back, but Axel beat you to it. You noticed the look on his face and panicked, knowing that he had quite the temper and you didn’t want a fight on your hands.

“Umm Axel, why don’t you leave?” You said cautiously, putting out the fire before it started.

“Really? Whatever whore. Should have known you were just a piece of good pussy.”

At that Minho handed you the coffees and charged at Axel, bringing back his fist and connecting it to the man’s face. You heard a crunch and a yowl as Axel clutched his nose, blood dripping down his face.

“Get the fuck out.” Minho sneered.

Axel grabbed his stuff and dashed for the door, slamming it behind him. You set the coffees down and rushed to Minho, cradling his hand to your chest.

“Are you okay?” You asked, as you began to examine his hand.

You fussed with making sure there was no swelling, tsking at the scrapes that were present on his knuckles.

“Kitten, I’m okay,” Minho chuckled, tickled that you were so concerned for him. “Are you okay?” He followed up with as he brushed his good hand down your cheek.

You looked up him, taking in his softened facial features as he gazed sweetly at you. It was almost like it was a different Minho standing in front of you.

He bit his lip, pulling at the skin there as he stepped closer to you. You held your breath as he leaned down, slowly, slowly until he pressed his lips to yours. He wrapped his arms around you and deepened the kiss and capturing your moans.

He walked you backwards until you reached your bed, your back falling on the mattress as you let out a huff. You laid there staring at him, neither one of you making a move or saying a word. Instead you both listened to the cars on the street outside your windows, the damn neighbors of yours arguing once more, and the sound of a tv in another neighbors apartment.

Your eyes roamed his body, landing in his bulge that was ever present, leaving nothing to the imagination. Minho smirked when he noticed your attention on him, watching as you squeezed your thighs together as arousal dripped out of your pussy.

Taking a step and another step, Minho reached for his shirt as he said, “Let me fuck you better than your ex ever has yeah?”

You gasped speechless and spread your legs as he lowered his body onto yours, his shirt discarded elsewhere. You placed your hands on his chest, softly drifting them over his tanned skin. His eyes burned into yours as you came to his nipples and circled your finger over the peaked bud, smiling as he let out a low groan.

“Enough kitten,” Minho sneered as he pushed your hands out of the way.

He gripped your shirt and lifted it over your head, your breasts freed and available for him to gaze at. You sighed as he cupped the flesh and messaged them gently in his hands, brushing his thumbs across your nipples occasionally.

You arched your back at the sensation, his gentle touch driving you insane. You let out a mewl and said, “need you Minho.”

“Yeah?” He said as he smirked, his hands reaching for the waistband of your panties.

He pulled them down your legs and spread them wider, his eyes on your wet pussy. He groaned as he eyed your sopping core as he did himself of his pants and boxers, his cock springing free. You held your breath at the sight of his cock, his size the biggest you’ve ever had.

“Gonna fuck you so good kitten, make this pussy mine.”

“Please,” you said as you gestured for him to come closer.

Minho shuffled between your legs, getting comfortable as he slapped his cock against your folds and clit. His eyes were trained on your entrance as he pushed the tip of his cock down and in, moaning as your walls sucked him in.

“You’re so tight kitten, ex must have not been fucking you good,” Minho sneered as he pounded into you, his eyes rolling to the back of his head as your walls wrapped his cock.

Minho was losing his mind, you were wet, your slick coating your thighs, the sound heavenly as his hips met yours. He grabbed a handful of your breasts and kneaded the flesh, his eyes boring into yours.

You hated yet loved how his cock felt, hitting your spots just right, sending shocks of pleasure through you. You moaned with each thrust, your pussy letting him know just how good he was fucking you. However, the more he fucked you, the angrier you got, furious at how smug he is and how he thinks he can just waltz in here and take you.

“Fuck me harder Minho, can barely feel you,” you teased, smirking at the shock in his face.

Your gaze faltered however as Minho’s face turned feral, his ears turning red the angrier he got.

“Oh yeah? Can’t feel me huh kitten?”

At his words, he withdrew his cock and flipped you around and maneuvered you on your hands and knees. You barely had time to register the new position as his cock breached your entrance and he began thrusting into you at a fast pace.

Skin slapping skin rang throughout your apartment, your moans so loud you’re sure the neighbors could hear you. Minho let out a grunt as he bent over you and pushed your head into the mattress and bit down on your shoulder causing you to yelp.

“Can you feel me now? Huh? Feel me in this tight pussy of yours? Take it kitten, take every inch.”

Your pussy clenched at his words and a gush of fluids leaked out of your hole, dripping onto the bed and his pelvis, making an absolute mess. You could barely breath as you felt the coil build in your belly before snapping, your orgasm hitting hard and fast as your eyes rolled to the back of your head at the sensation.

“Did you come? Such a sweet kitten for me,” Minho cooed as he pressed sloppy kisses to your back.

You laid there drunk on his cock, taking what he gave you, listening to him grunt above you. It was becoming too much and you began to cry out at the overstimulation. Minho sped up before stilling his hips, spurts of his cum painting your walls white.

You could hear his moans as he emptied himself inside you, his hands drawing patterns on your back. As he came down, he pressed gentle kisses to your neck, whispering sweet nothings in your ear.

Finally, he withdrew once more and helped you lay down on your back, pulling you close to his body to cuddle.

“You did good for me kitten,” he said as he pulled the blanket over both of you.

You felt good, which honestly was an understatement, your mind hazy, your body floating as you slowly succumbed to the warmth of Minho’s body.

The next morning you awoke and rolled over while stretching, but stopped short when you ran into a body instead. Your eyes popped open in surprise, confused for a moment on who was in your bed.

But then you remembered Minho and the night you spent together and you could feel the warmth creep up to your cheeks and your pussy clench in longing for his cock. Almost as if he could feel you looking at him, Minho opened his eyes and found yours in his sleepy haze, a smirk on his face.

Minho looked even more beautiful in the early morning hours, his eyes big and filled with sleep as he gazed at you, his lashes blinking away the long strands of hair that fell into his eyes. You thought he would have been gone by the time you woke up, but here he was, pulling you closer to his body as he buried his face in your hair.

“Morning kitten,” he said, his voice muffled as he nuzzled your head.

You whimpered as you clutched onto his shirt, pushing your lower half against his erection, the thought of his length filling you up causing your slick to leak out and coat your thighs.

It’s almost as if he could read your mind because he snaked his hand down between you two, grasping his hard cock just to sheath himself within you. You let out a moan as he filled you, the pleasure and slight sting feeling so good.

You both were a tangle of breathy moans and gasps as Minho rutted against you, his cock hitting your spot just right at this angle. He kept his head buried in your hair, his arms wrapped around your body as you buried your head in his chest.

Ever so slowly, your high built within, the feeling expanding until it built to crescendo, little shocks of pleasure spreading from your pussy to your legs all the way down to your toes.

You moaned Minho’s name as he continued to thrust within you, listening to his breathing increase as he reached his high, his cum filling you up and leaking onto the sheets. As you both came down from your highs, you clutched onto each other, savoring this slow moment together before the day began.

“Kitten, we have to get up yeah?” Minho murmured as he stroked your hair.

You wanted to lay here forever, warm in his embrace, the shitty world forgotten; however, you knew you had to get up, face the world and this job that was looming in the horizon.

You and Minho shuffled around, preparing to get ready to meet with Chan and the others. Neither one of you said a word, both of you understanding the seriousness of the situation that you both would be entering into later today.

You dressed in your black pants and black tank top, pulling on your boots as well. You outfitted your eyes on midnight blue eyeshadow to match your hair, your eyes accentuated by the color.

“Ready?” Minho asked as he stood by the door.

You nodded and followed him out of the door, joining the others of Rosora. The weather was nice which was promising, as completing jobs when it was raining or storming out was not really ideal.

Minho drove you both to your groups meetings spot and joined the others who were gathered around the warehouse, quietly mingling with each other. You stood in the corner, Minho joining you, his hand resting gently on your back.

The chatter died down over the next few moments as Chan entered looking determined. He looked around those gathered before speaking.

“Okay, let’s go over the plan one more time. Echo will hack into the security system and disarm it, giving us an in into the building. However, you will need to neutralize the guards however you see fit, although if we could avoid any casualties that would be best. Echo will also be on the lookout and clear a path for you as you make your way through the building. Astra will help you with any of your enhancements before you go. Let’s get this piece of data and change humanity.”

You shared a look with Minho before Chan approached you two.

“We’re counting on you two,” he said with hope.

You both nodded and watched him walk away to speak with the others. You began to check your enhancements, making sure they were all in working order. You had a variety of different ones that came in handy depending upon the situation, such as enhanced vision, one to help you with stealth, and a cool down after firing your built in weapon-a small pistol you reserved for the most severe of cases.

Minho checked his as well, as his included enhanced vision and hearing which will definitely come in handy for this job. Once done, you both walked back to his car.

The office was in Farlan, the business district, where all the wealthy resided and worked. You looked out the window, watching as the scenery changed from run down and people ambling around with no purpose, to nice skyscrapers with up kept greenery and clean streets. Those who walked the street were put together, dressed nicely as they made their way to their destinations.

It amazed but disgusted you how there was a difference between the two zones, how one lived in luxury while the other lived in squalor.

Onyx corp. was located in a large skyscraper, the sign indicating so big and present. No one was coming in or out, the company being closed today, hence why today was chosen.

Minho pulled to a parking lot a few buildings away, both of you getting out and stretching your legs after the drive. Walking to the building was nerve wracking, both of you dressed in a way that seemed out of place compared to those of Farlan.

As you approached the side door into the building, you heard Echo give you both the go ahead, the door opening automatically for you. Inside the building, it was dark and quiet, the halls empty as everyone was off.

There were no alarms, the security alarms and cameras turned off. Minho gestured for you to follow him, as he walked further into the entry way, walking ahead to what seemed like a set of elevators.

However, half way there you heard a set of footsteps followed by a flash of light. Quickly, Minho pulled you behind a wall, both of you holding your breaths as a guard patrolled the area, flashlight in hand. Minho focused on the guard and took in the guards weak points using his enhanced vision.

Once locked in, Minho gestured to you that he would take the guard. You nodded and watched as he waited until the precise moment the guard approached the area you two were hiding and lounged out grabbing the guard by wrapping his arm around his neck and applying pressure.

The guard stumbled and began to make strangled sounds, his hands clutching at Minho’s arms as he fought to get free. However, Minho had the advantage and increased the pressure on the man’s neck until he slumped down unconscious.

Minho dragged him behind the wall where you both were hiding and went on your way. As you approached the elevator, you gazed around taking in the grandeur and lavishness of the room, tsking in disgust. They really have everything, you thought.

The elevator pinged, the doors opening and you two stepped in pressing the penthouse floor button. The doors slowly closed and the elevator began to ascend quietly. You both stood in silence until a thought came in your head.

“I will be the one who hacks in the system to grab the data,” you said, looking expectantly at Minho.

“Absolutely not,” Minho said not giving your demand a moments thought.

“Why not? I deserve this after everything I’ve been through.” You let out a huff and crossed your arms. Yes you were being petty, but hey you wanted to be the one who nabbed the prize. You owed it to your family and to yourself.

“Kitten, I will be the one to grab the data. Not another word about it yeah?”

You glared at the man next to you, “you son of a bitch. You don’t own me. I will be the one to steal the data.”

You looked straight ahead in defiance, proud of yourself for sticking it him. This was your job after all, he’s just a side character in all of this.

One moment you were staring at the elevator doors, a smirk on your face and next you were pushed against the wall, Minho caging your body in as he narrowed his eyes at you.

“Listen here kitten,” he murmured, his voice echoing in your ear. “You are feisty, but bad girls get punished and I don’t want to punish you. You will let me get the data and you will be a good kitten and help. Got it?”

Your breath caught at his words, warmth filling your core at his dominance. Your eyes found his, taking in his dilated pupils and look full of lust.

“No,” you said simply, a look of pure defiance on your face. You would not give into him, doesn’t matter that you slept with him.

Minho’s raised an eyebrow and breathed out a sigh. He leaned away to press the pause button, the elevator coming to a halt. He quickly walked back to you and caged you against the wall once more as he brought a hand to your pants and slipped them inside to touch you wet pussy.

He smirked as he slid his finger through your folds and lazily circled your clit, taking in your strangled gasps as you tried not to moan.

“Why are you wet kitten? You working after all,” he teased as he sped up his fingers, the glide easy as he spread your arousal around your clit.

“Minho…fuck!” You moaned as he slightly applied more pressure.

You gripped his arms as your breath came out in pants, your high approaching hard and fast. Minho bit his lips and watched you fall apart on his fingers, chuckling as you began to rock your hips.

“That’s it kitten, so naughty getting off on the job. Echo is on the other end of this line. He can hear you. Every. Single. Word. “

You mewled out as you released over his fingers, your squeals high pitched as Minho continued to circle your clit, his eyes straight on yours.

You slowly came down, resting your head on his chest and tried to regulate your breathing. Minho removed his fingers and sucked them into his mouth and moaned as he tasted you.

“So sweet kitten,” he sighed as he walked back to the panel and pressed the pause button again, the elevator moving once more.

You were quiet as it continued its ascent. You arrived at the pent house floor, the doors slowly opening revealing a long dark hallway. Minho exited first, with you following closely behind.

The floor was quiet, eerily so. You got an uneasy feeling that someone was watching you, their eyes peering from behind a corner waiting to pounce. You activated your stealth mode, your footsteps becoming light and airy.

Minho came to a sudden stop, his ears glowing as they picked up a sound from one of the many rooms. He turned to the right and coming out of the shadows was a man and woman, dressed similarly, with a belt full of knives and an assault rifle in their hands.

They must be Nyx and Strider, the other guards for the company. You held your breath as they got closer but then stopped in their tracks, guns raised at the ready.

“Who the fuck are you?” The man yelled as he adjusted his gun, ready to fire at a moments notice.

Minho raised his hands up and kept eye contact on the two guards. “We mean no harm, just strolling through.”

“Stop fucking with us, I will shoot no questions asked.”

You knew they would, they seemed more of the shoot now ask later type of people. You could hear Echo telling you and Minho to keep stalling as he worked on a solution.

“Hey now,” you said as you stepped forward, “let’s not be hostile, let’s be friends yeah? Or how about this, I’ll give you a free show yeah? I’m sure you’re interested in what I have to offer,” you cooed.

You could feel Minho bristle in anger behind you but you paid him no mind. The two guards slightly lowered their guns as you started to take your jacket off, revealing your piercings and cleavage.

Their eyes honed in on your breasts as you started to untie the tie on your shirt, areas of skin being revealed inch by inch. Right as you were about to whisk your top off, an alarm sounded elsewhere in the building, loud and shrill in the quiet building.

“Shit,” Strider cursed under his breath.

“Sorry I’m sure you had lots of offer for us sweetheart but duty calls.”

Suddenly, they opened fire causing you to shriek as a rain of bullets pelted your way. There were yellow and orange flashes of lights as the guns went off, the shooters aiming anywhere they could as they swept the area.

Minho quickly pushed you out of the way, both of you rolling slightly on the ground, but away from the parade of bullets. You huddled against him as you listened to the gunfire, your mind going back to the incident with Astra.

Minho wrapped his arms around you to cradle you to him as smoke filled the hallway, providing cover over both of you. He could tell you were scared as you trembled in his arms.

You’re not sure how long you both stayed huddled like that, but minutes passed as the gunfire ceased and the smoke lifted. Minho activated his hearing enhancement, listening for any sign of movement or chatter.

Hearing neither he sat up a little bringing you with him.

“Are you okay kitten?” He asked, concern in his voice as he assessed you.

You nodded yes and wiped a stray tear that had fallen down your face.

“Good. Now don’t ever do that again. You are mine got it?” Minho countered, his voice gruff.

“Okay,” you agreed, still a little shaken up from what just happened.

As you two sat there, Echo came on and said, “you both should be clear the rest of the way. Get the data and get out of there.”

Minho nodded and stood up, offering his hand to you. You grabbed it and pulled yourself up, dusting the soot and dust from your clothes. You tied your top back and started to walk towards Cipher’s office.

As you came to the double doors, Echo made himself known again. “Doors unlocked. Good luck.”

Minho pushed them open and stepped in with you following behind. You took in the large office, spotless and industrial seeming, no ounce of personality in the space. Along one wall was a couch with many pillows, seeming the comfiest spot in the arid room. On the other wall was a large panel with blinking lights, a soft motor running in the background.

As you both approached, you expected an alarm to go off from some invisible barrier, but nothing happened, the area quiet as ever.

“Okay, let’s do this. Kitten?”

You looked at Minho in surprise. He was gesturing for you to walk forward and started the transfer. You smiled and looked at the panel, searching for a terminal to input your device.

Once you located it, you inserted the device, a click sounding as you pressed start. In less than a few seconds, the transfer was done and you logged off and relaxed your device back in your pocket.

“Got it, let’s go.”

Minho smiled at you and took your hand as both of you quickly exited the barren office.

“Excellent work!” Echo exclaimed, “Now get out. We’ll meet back at Neon City.”

You both backtracked your steps, shockingly not running into any more personnel. It seemed strange but stopping wasn’t an option, so you continued to head for the side door.

As you both stepped out into the blazing sun, you shielded your eyes as they adjusted the the bright light. Minho led you to the car, starting it and immediately pressing the gas once you were in.

“Fuck, we did it.” You said in awe, eyeing the piece of data in your inventory.

“Of course kitten, we make a great team huh,” Minho teased.

You chuckled and looked out the window, watching as Farlan disappeared and the scenery slowly turned back into run down Rosora. Minho didn’t stop until he got to Cyberlina, parking in the spot he usually used when he trained you.

You walked to Hyunjin’s bar, smiling big as you approached him. His eyes lit up at the sight of you followed by a look of relief as he realized you were safe. He eyed Minho, sizing him up as you got closer to him. He knew of your feelings about Minho, but he wasn’t up to speed about your little night spent together yet, so you understood his hesitation.

Hyunjin pointed you to one of the private rooms and you both entered the small room to join Chan, Astra, Echo and a few others.

“Welcome back you two,” Chan said as he gave you both a wide grin.

You and Minho sat down amongst the cheers. You picked up a beer and popped the cap and took a long swig, savoring the wheaty taste on your tongue.

“Now where’s the data? Let’s crack this puppy open.”

You transferred the file to Chan who immediately got to work cracking the code to unlock the file. Echo pitched in when needed and between the both of them, the my were successful. Everyone held their breath as they waited to see what the secret was, the one that would make them rich.

However, as time went on, Chan frowned as he didn’t seem to like what he was looking at.

“There’s no code here…it’s not here!” He said, his voice getting louder with each word.

“What do you mean it’s not there?” You asked incredulously.

Chan sat in silence, his face red and eyes murderous as he considered the possibilities of what could have gone wrong. The only thing you could think of was you and Minho were duped and maybe Onyx Corp. knew you were coming, replacing the original code with a fake.

If that’s the case, then who? Who would betray the group like that?

“We will get that code, we have to…” Chan said as he now paced the small room, back and forth, back and forth.

There was silence as everyone looked at the leader, wondering what was going to happen now. The buyer would be expecting the data soon and no one had it.

Chan stopped pacing and stared out at everyone, “We will meet up tomorrow, I need to come up with a plan.”

With that, he walked out of the door, his hands balled up into fists, everyone else filed out after him…everyone except you and Minho. You both sat in silence, considering what had just occurred. What would happen now?

You looked up as the door opened and Hyunjin walked in, a couple of shot glasses and a bottle in hand.

“Figured this was called for,” he said as he sat the items down and then sat on the couch next to you.

He popped open the bottle and filled each shot glass up before handing you each one. You took yours and tossed it back, flinching as the liquor slid down your throat and settled in your stomach. Hyunjin filled your glass up once more and you tossed it back before leaning on the couch, your gaze to the ceiling.

There goes your chance at a better life, the 50 million neuro credits on your mind. You could have upgraded your apartment to a less shittier one. Food would be plentiful as you wouldn’t have to worry about how you would pay. You wouldn’t have had to work for a while if you didn’t want to.

But most of all, the future would have been bright for all, as an enhancement could have been made to help those who were injured or ill, saving their lives as they wouldn’t have to worry about Neuro credits and paying for treatment. All of that went out the window with this dupe.

At first you felt sad, your heart sinking as this dream disappeared, slowly getting further and further out of reach. How many others had to suffer at the hands of the wealthy? They sat in their fancy homes, never having to worry about where their meals would come from, or having to worry about succumbing to illness like your family did. They didn’t have to work dangerous jobs just to afford rent for a shitty apartment.

No, they didn’t care and they definitely don’t want this information getting out, to help society as a whole. Here, you could have anything technologically advanced except for the most basic needs, which definitely was fucked up.

As time passed and you sat there in silence, listening to the bass of the beat playing outside the door, you felt your rage grow, slowly and steadily, the fire lighting in your heart. You were going to get that data if it was the last thing you’d do on this miserable earth.

Turning to Minho, you crossed your arms demanding his attention. He raised his eyebrows at you, his cheeks already flushed from the liquor, as he waited for you to speak.

“We’re going to get that data. We have to. I won’t let them get away with this. Are you with me?”

Minho looked at you for a while, his expression unreadable. You could hear Hyunjin shuffle behind you and clear his throat, most likely feeling unease at your determination. You ignored him however and continued to stare at Minho, waiting his answer.

Finally, Minho let out a sigh and sat up straighter, his hand reaching out to cup your cheek. You didn’t dare look away, your gaze set on his as you awaited his answer with bated breath.

Minho smirked and leaned over to press a wet kiss to your lips before pulling back and saying with finality, “Absolutely. Let’s go show those bastards.”

You grinned and placed your hand over his, nuzzling your face into his palm. Who would have thought you would fall for this stubborn and demanding man? You’re happy you did and now you have a partner in crime.

You thought for a while and then turned to Hyunjin while still holding Minho’s hand. You had the future to plan revenge against Onyx corp. but tonight, you could be carefree for a little with your lover and best friend right?

“What’s up?” Hyunjin asked, seeing the question burning in your eyes.

You grinned at his response, knowing your best friend always knows what’s on your mind.

So with resolve you said, “Bring out the best stock you have. I think we need to forget what happened tonight and then tomorrow start to plan our attack against those bastards.”

Hyunjin nodded and got up to leave while Minho smirked, satisfied with your plan. Oh Onyx Corp. will not know what hit them by the time you were done.

That’s for damn sure.

taglist: @jehhskz @jeonginsleftcheek @armystay89 @palindrome969 @slut4hee @amarecerasus @kaysungshine @fun-fanfics @baby-stay92 @velvetmoonlght @possum-playground @katsukis1wife @my-neurodivergent-world @hanniebaeee @hwanghyunjinismybae @channiesrightasscheek

[f1cflcfic]

The Prophecy (SMAU ft. Lando Norris) Part V

pairing: lando norris x singer!reader (fem!y/n)

summary: what happens after the break-up that noone saw coming? as Y/N L/N gears up to release her next album, each song reveals a little bit of the past, present and future of her relationship with Lando Norris. Inspired by a curated playlist built around "The Prophecy".

note: this is RPF and is obviously in no way, shape, or form reflective of real persons.

genre: social media au, angst, exes to lovers, happy ending

[A/N: I can't believe we're coming to an end of this! Just one part left to go... And then if you'd like, a whole bunch of 'deleted scenes' :)]

part i part ii part iii part iv

♥･*:.｡ ｡.:*･ﾟ♡･*:.｡ ｡.:*･ﾟ♥

post-race November, 2026

November 25-27, 2026

[Excerpt: BBC Radio 1 Interview with Lando Norris]

“And this morning we’ve got a very special guest on the show, it’s Lando Norris!”

“Hi Greg, how are ya?”

“Good, we’re very excited to have you here in the studio, especially since you’ve only just returned from the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where you won!”

There’s a lot of celebratory noise in the studio, with confetti poppers going off around Norris.

“Woohoo! We did!”

“Ah you know, I love that you still say “we” – even when it’s just you in the car seeing that chequered flag,” Greg continues.

“It’s a team effort, though. I love my McLaren team, and if it wasn’t for all the hard work from all the engineers, the data analysts, and other staff members – I wouldn’t be able to drive to victory.”

“Are you still in the post-win haze, or are you already focused on this weekend’s race in Qatar?”

“Not gonna lie, I’m definitely still riding that victory high, but I’m flying out for the next race tomorrow – that’s when I’ll have to flip the switch. So I’m giving myself today to still lean into the euphoria.”

“All around euphoria? Vegas is a city that can easily also lead you down the path of temptation and very bad, no good decisions,” Greg asks.

Lando smirks. “I would say that all my decisions were actually very great. No regrets.”

“No? I mean, just for that, I think we should play a true classic. We will be back with Formula One driver Lando Norris after this next song, “Waking Up in Vegas” by Katy Perry”

(…)

“And that was “No More Sad Songs” by Y/N L/N, followed by Justin Bieber’s latest return to pop music. Now, Lando – you are also a music fan yourself. Once even had a go at being somewhat of a DJ yourself.”

Lando turns bashful, shaking his head. “Nah, not really. I think it’s fun to experiment, but definitely leaving that to the professionals.”

“Hm you’d think being surrounded by people who’ve made music their career would definitely have somewhat of a trickle-down effect,” Greg muses, and Lando lets out a little giggle. “I don’t think it works like that.”

“Well I think we should see how in-tune you really are with them - see what I did there? – in a game of Sit Down or Stand Up!”

Lando dutifully gets out his phone, then suddenly halts and asks, “can people see my phone like this, no right?” He then waves at the camera and turns away from it as he goes through his contact list.

“Okay so I’ll try Martin then – but he might not answer if he’s in the studio,” he cautions. “That’s alright. Do you think he’ll be standing up or sitting down?”

“Definitely sitting down,” Lando laughs. The phone rings, and rings, and rings. Then gets forwarded to voicemail.

Greg makes a shocked face, then starts grinning. “I think we know now who did party too hard,” and Lando rolls his eyes. “He might be on a flight to Ibiza, actually. Well, what do we do now? I haven’t ruined the bit now, have I?

“We just try the next one! Surely there’s someone else you can call,” Greg encourages. Lando looks at his phone again, eyes focused on the screen as he scrolls in concentration.

“Not that one, definitely can’t call this one,” he mutters out loud, then seems to catch himself and turns a little red. “Okay, I’ll just call Osc. Let me call my teammate. I know for a fact,” he points his finger, “that he will stand up to answer the call. Because he’s polite like that.”

Greg squints in contemplation, then shrugs. “I think, just to be contrarian, that I’m gonna say he’ll be sitting down.”

“What are we betting on?”

“A papaya?”

Lando snorts. “Sure, let’s do it.” This time, it doesn’t take long at all for Oscar to answer.

“Hi?”

“Hi mate, listen, you’re live on Radio 1 and I have a very important question to ask you,” Lando says happily. Oscar groans over the phone, and it’s easy to picture him running a hand through his hair.

“Oh god, alright – lay it on me.”

“Are you, standing down or sitting up,” Lando asks, then bursts out in giggles as he realises what he's done after Greg starts cracking up. “Oh no! Oh no, wait – don’t answer yet. Let me try that again, aahh I said it wrong! Are you … standing up or sitting down?”

“Oh, is Greg James there?”

“I am,” Greg replies, “Hi Oscar! Please let us know if you’re indeed sitting down, or standing up.”

“Hello! I am … standing up, actually Lando called me in the middle of my workout. I’m jogging, so sorry if I’m breathing very loudly.”

Lando pulls a face. “Are you serious right now? You’re making me look bad, mate.”

“Motivation, is what it is – alright, I guess I now owe Lando a papaya?!”

November 28, 2026

[Excerpt: Hot or Not with Y/N L/N]

“Alright Y/N, we’ve got a bunch of statements here – and we want you to tell us if you think they’re hot or not.”

“Ready! Wait, I use this green one for hot right? And red for not, like a red flag?”

“Correct! Okay, let’s start then. First, we’ve got some statements that are related to your album. Sad songs – hot or not?”

“Oh my god, I thought you meant they’d be easier! Ugh, well I guess hot? My last single is called No More Sad Songs, but I love a good sad song, if I’m honest”

"I was wondering about that! Fans are hoping for a music video. Can you confirm or deny the rumours that you've been filming one the past few days?"

Y/N raises the green card. "It's been an absolute blast putting this video together with my friends, at a local bar. I can't wait for the fans to see it."

“Ohhh neither can I! It does bring me to the next topic, because this is how the rumours got started. Juice channels – hot or not?”

“Now that is an easy one. Not. I don’t mind fans wanting to speculate about which single is coming next, or what the tour is going to look like. But I don’t like the invasiveness of some of these pages like deuxmoi.”

“Noted. Have they ever been true, though? Their prophecies?”

“Of deuxmoi or the fans?”

“Either.”

“I mean, of course! If someone sees me eating in a restaurant they could very well be right. It just ruins my experience of existing out in the real world, so I’d rather not read about it the next morning, you know?”

“Speaking of food. How about people naming their pets after food items?”

“Oh like a dog named Taco? Or Kiwi? I think it can be fun! I also like human names for dogs. And I like dog names for dogs. You know, I think I just really like dogs. They’re all *baby* in my head, anyways.”

“Hmm so you like human names for pets. Do you enjoy pet names as a human?”

“Personally I don’t really tend to use them, except love. I find others a bit cringe, but I don’t mind if my partner wants to use them to refer to me. Darling, or baby. I guess what I find hot is someone who’s really open about expressing their appreciation and love for you.”

November 30, 2026

December 1st, 2026

December 3d, 2026

December 6, 2026

[Excerpt SkyNews]

FINAL F1 RACE IN ABU DHABI WILL DECIDE THE WINNER, NORRIS “CONFIDENT”

(…)

Norris arrived at the paddock with friends and family in tow. It’s an unusual sight for the driver who usually sticks closely to a tried and tested routine. Perhaps his crash just last weekend, and the resulting difficult grand prix ahead of him changed his mind. Or perhaps it’s the fact that singer Y/N L/N seems to have travelled with him for moral support.

She did not engage with press, and hurried inside while Norris fielded questions from various interviewers. “I’m eager, and hungry to win this weekend. I feel like I’ve proven myself this past year, and I want to make my team proud. It wouldn’t just be me winning for myself, but also for everyone who’s helped me realise that dream. So I’m not necessarily always the most confident guy, but I do feel confident going into this.”

The driver has a small lead in the championship, and had hoped to capitalise on it last weekend. However, due to a collision with Lewis Hamilton – one of his main challengers – in Qatar, it will all come down to the results of this season’s final race in Abu Dhabi.

Unlike some of his fellow drivers, Norris opted to fly back and forth throughout the final triple header of the season. While it remains unconfirmed, he was reportedly seen visiting his ex in both London last week (prior to Qatar), and New York just two days ago. It’ll remain to be seen whether or not the travelling will take its toll on his performance on track.  

December 7th, 2026

♥･*:.｡ ｡.:*･ﾟ♡･*:.｡ ｡.:*･ﾟ♥

[a/n: we're so close to the end now!!]

You can read the previous parts by going here, part VI is available here.

♥ likes, comments, reblogs are always very much appreciated ♥

taglist (open) : @charlesgirl16, @linnygirl09, @hoeforsirius, @motorsportloverf1, @sarx164, @idkimbadwithusernamesandstuff, @formulaal, @tvdtw4ever @sadiemack9 @seonghwaexile @screamingwines

[markrosewater]

You say that magic is ever evolving and therefore closer to its roots than it's ever been. I think the problem is, when people try to tell you adding spiderman is a bad thing, is these are the people who followed the very story Wizards took the time to create and to them it's something sacred. They're the people who either grew up with the Purifying Fire, or actually rooted for the Gate watch. The people who cheered when Nicol Bolas went down. I think those are the people who are sad to see Spiderman eating up that space. It's like your favorite series but the plot is totally different. It's the story people care about, whether told through the cards or the Wizards website. That Wizards made us care about only to then tell us it doesn't matter. Fans don't like it when that happens. I feel you must understand deep down.

I do understand why people dislike Universes Beyond. I am very invested in Magic’s creative. I spent time creating Magic story (The Weatherlight Saga). I’ve done card concepting. I’ve done names and flavor text. There was even a few years where I managed the creative team.

There was even a time when I shared those beliefs about what Magic’s creative should and shouldn’t be, and was firmly against outside properties on Magic cards. I understand you all because for a long time I was you.

But what Magic is and is not isn’t decided by any one person. It’s decided by the collective consciousness of all of us.

I don’t personally like Walls as a creature type. Commander isn’t my personal cup of tea. And as a player, I’m not a fan of discard. But those are all a part of Magic because the amalgam of Magic players wants it to be part of the game, and I respect that being part of the Magic community is letting each player have the ability to enjoy what they love about the game.

Note when we started Universes Beyond, we weren’t sure what the player response would be. We dipped our toe in slowly. We limited what formats it appeared in.

We then looked at the data. Most players just wanted access to the cards they wanted to play, and didn’t care what the creative that was on it, so over time we leaned more in that direction.

But look, if there’s a large enough playerbase that cares, we’ll respond. If you really want a Universes Beyond free format, make one. If it gets enough player support, we’ll follow suit.

Remember, we didn’t make Commander. The players did. When it got popular enough, we tried out a product, and the success of that product convinced us to make more.

We really do follow the will of the players. If what you feel is important to you, find fellow players who feel the same way. Get enough together and I promise we’ll take notice.

Right now the data that we see, says that isn’t the case, but I’m always happy when the amalgam of players shows us we’re wrong. If that happens, we’ll pivot. We always do.

[zoloteh-volossya]

BG3 Fanfiction Statistics, Part 1

I’ve seen some discussions of BG3 fandom trends floating around tumblr that spoke from experience but lacked hard data to refer to. As a fan of Baldur’s Gate 3, fanfiction, and graphs, I therefore thought it would be neat and illustrative to go through AO3 and document some of the statistics this fandom.

I did a similar exercise back in January and posted the results here. However, I was a bit unhappy with this analysis – it was missing some data that I consider to be relevant, I didn’t end up discussing the results much, and I only posted it to reddit. Most discussions for the creative side of fandom seem to happen on tumblr, so I made this account to post it here.

I will try and be as transparent as possible when discussing how I obtained and processed this data. A copy of my spreadsheet can be found here and contains all of the data I will be discussing. Most of the data I feature in this essay will be presented as graphs. Below each graph I will discuss the patterns shown in the graph and provide what I believe to be some relevant and/or interesting number values. If you want to see all the numbers, please refer to my spreadsheet. If you don’t care about the numbers and/or my thoughts about them, feel free to skim through and just look at the charts!

A note before I start – I gathered this data between July 21, 2024 and July 24, 2024. It is out of date as of my writing this and will be even more out of date by the time you read it. However, I believe the general fandom trends will hold up over time – the same patterns that I observed in January are largely still present in July.

Due to the tumblr post image limit and my preponderance of graphs, I will be breaking this behemoth of an essay into two parts:

General Fandom Statistics, the Player Character, and the Women

The Men, a Character Comparison, and a Pairing Analysis

We are currently in part 1. Part 2 can be found at this link. The rest of part 1 is below the read more because this is very long.

GENERAL FANDOM STATS

This information was found by looking at the side bar when browsing Baldur’s Gate fics. Therefore, this data set includes fics from the previous two Baldur’s Gate games. However, given that the games were released in 1998 and 2000, respectively, most of the fanfiction for them was likely posted to FF.net and the error from including what little fic for them was posted to AO3 is likely small.

At the time of my data gathering, there were 31,043 Baldur’s Gate fics on AO3.

RATINGS

To the surprise of nobody in the BG3 fandom, Explicit fic is the largest category, at 38% of all fics produced. It’s followed by Mature (24%), Teen and Up (20%), General (12%) and Not Rated (6%). Not all of the Explicit and Mature fics are necessarily horny – those warnings also apply to extreme violence (hello, Dark Urge). But let’s be real, most of them are tagged that way for sex.

WARNINGS

Speaking of extreme violence, let’s take a look at the warnings used for fics in this fandom.

Just about half (50.2%) of BG fics have no warnings at all. About 17.6% have warnings for graphic depictions of violence – lower than I would have expected, honestly, for a video game that features as much murder as this one does (at least, how I play it...). About 5.4% of fics feature a warning for rape, 4.7% feature major character death, and 0.5% feature underage sex.

CATEGORIES

AO3 allows users to select any categories from a list of possible options (F/M, M/M, F/F, Gen, Other, and Multi). F/M, M/M, and F/F are pretty self explanatory, Gen fics don’t focus on a relationship, Multi fics focus on a relationship between three or more people, and Other is a catch all for fics that don’t fit into any of the previous categories very well. For shipping with nonbinary (NB) characters, I have seen a variety of approaches. Some people select the category closest to the NB character’s presentation, some select multiple categories, and some select Other.

One very useful tool that I will be introducing here is the use of “otp:true.” When “otp:true” is entered into the “Search within results” bar while filtering tags, AO3 will only return fics that have just one pairing tagged. This filters out all fics that have background pairings or multiple focus pairings. Results with “otp:true” are typically solely focused on that particular pairing.

With all that explanation out of the way, the results:

We can clearly see that the most common category for Baldur’s Gate fics is M/F, with 43.3% of all fics featuring a M/F pairing. 36.4% of all fics feature a M/M pairing, 10.6% feature a F/F pairing, 11.7% are more General, 8.0% feature Multiple people in a pairing, and 10.9% are Other. These percentages add up to more than 100% because a fic can be tagged with multiple categories.

Things change a bit when you filter for “otp:true” and only include fics that focus on just one pairing. In this case, M/M predominates, with a whopping 46.0% of fics. M/F follows with 31.2%, F/F with 11.1%, 7.7% are General, 9.7% are Other, and 3.0% are still tagged as Multi (presumably for fics where the only pairing is a threesome or such).

CHARACTERS

As a last look at more general content before I begin a deep dive into looking at the various characters, I took a look at the 30 most popular character tags.

This was a surprise to me the first time I looked at it in January. In the previous two video game fandoms I was in that had a player character (Mass Effect and Fire Emblem: Three Houses), the player character was the most popular character tag in that fandom. In this case, though, Astarion has the most fics that feature him, and by a pretty significant margin (~5,000 more fics than Tav). He appears in 63.0% of fics. Tav is next, at 46.7% of fics. Then we have the rest of the six Origin characters: Gale (34.5% of fics), Shadowheart (23.7%), Karlach (20.5%), Wyll (18.6%), and Lae’zel (15.9%), as well as Halsin (15.8%) and the Dark Urge (15.3%). That they all are next to each other makes sense, as fics that focus on one character or pairing will often tag the entire ensemble. Lae’zel only showing up 16% of the time seems low, though, for a member of the main cast. To me, this indicates that not many fics are true ensemble fics that include all of the main cast.

After this block of main characters, we drop a bit to Gortash, who shows up in 7.4% of fics. He’s the most popular villain by far, followed by Cazador (4.7%) and Raphael (4.6%). Orin only shows up in 2.9% of fics and Ketheric is featured in only 1.1% of fics.

Jaheira shows up in 4.4% of fics, but her values may include fics from the earlier Baldur’s Gate games. Poor Minthara is the 16th most tagged character and only shows up in 2.5% of fics. Rolan (a tiefling NPC) shows up in more fics than she does.

Despite being featured in previous Baldur’s Gate game fics as well as BG3, Minsc does not seem popular – he’s #25, being tagged in 1.3% of fics.

One thing I did note was the comparative lack of focus on the overarching plot of the game in BG3 fics. I’ll use the Emperor as a barometer for this, as it’s inextricably interwoven into everything having to do with the Absolute, the mysterious artifact, and our protagonists’ immunity to it. Yet, it only appears in 535 fics of over 31,000 – approximately 1.7% of all BG fics. This tells me that there isn’t much engagement with the actual illithid plot of the game in most fics – at least not to the extent where major plot relevant characters are being tagged.

CHARACTER PAIRING STATISTICS

Most of my time for this analysis was spent collecting data for the various pairing tags. I went through the top 300 pairing tags by order of popularity (ending with Mystra/Cazador, of all things) and recorded how many fics each rating had and how many fics each category had both with and without “otp:true” applied. Coincidentally, this included all the pairings with 5 or more fics in them at the time – by sheer luck the 301st pairing tag had only 4 fics. I judged that I could ignore pairing tags with fewer than 5 fics without affecting the results of my analyses too much (also it had taken 4 days to get this far and I was tired).

However, a lot of authors tag their fics with both, say, Astarion/Tav and Astarion/F!OC. But for this exercise I’m not really looking at how authors refer to the Tav/Dark Urge/self insert character in their tagging nomenclature. I’m more interested in how many fics exist for, say, the pairing of Astarion and the player character.

To this end, I combined the numbers for Tav, Dark Urge, OC, F!OC, M!OC, NB!OC, Reader, and You for each character ship. In order to avoid double counting fics, once I had added the numbers for a particular tag I excluded that tag from all future counts.

[X]/PC = [X]/Tav + ([X]/Dark Urge with the [X]/Tav tag excluded) + ([X]/Original Character with the [X]/Tav and [X]/Dark Urge excluded) + ([X]/Reader with [X]/Tav, [X]/Dark Urge, and [X]/Original Character excluded) and so on.

This process dropped the total number of pairings from 300 to 162. However, it also introduces an error. Some fics ship characters with an OC who is not a Tav/Dark Urge/self insert. In condensing all pairings with original characters to the “PC” supercategory, I am ignoring that and counting their original character as a Tav/Dark Urge equivalent. Unfortunately, this is just something I have to live with in order to be able to make the data more manageable, as there is no way to tell which fics are using the OC tag to represent a Tav/Dark Urge and which are not on a mass data scale. I don’t think it will skew the results too much, at least.

I pulled out the top 20 ships for each major character in BG3 (Tav, Dark Urge, the PC, Shadowheart, Karlach, Lae’zel, Minthara, Astarion, Gale, Wyll, and Halsin) before and after I combined the player character tags into the PC supercategory. For each character, I then determined how much of each fic category (M/F, M/M, F/F, Other, Multi) they had, both for all of their pairings and for their pairing with the PC specifically.

Let's start by looking at the player character and its two representatives.

TAV

Tav is in 71 of the top 300 ship tags in the BG3 fandom.

Astarion completely dominates Tav’s ships, with a whopping 9,235 fics (1,839 otp:true fics). In fact, in order to be able to see the tiny little boxes that represent everyone else, here’s another version of this chart, this time with Astarion excluded.

There, that’s a bit more legible. The next highest is Gale, with 2,909 fics (652 otp:true) – less than a third as many fics as Astarion. Halsin comes third with 1,304 fics (207 otp:true) and Shadowheart is the first canon woman to show up, with 806 fics (132 otp:true). Astarion has more than 11 times as many fics with Tav as Shadowheart does. Karlach comes next, with 724 fics (186 otp:true). Raphael comes sixth, with 176 more fics than #7 Wyll who has 442 fics (100 otp:true). Lae’zel is #11 with 300 fics, under Gortash, Rolan, and a threesome with Halsin and Astarion. Minthara is the least popular main character to ship with Tav. She’s #15 with 146 fics (33 otp:true), and has fewer fics with Tav than Zevlor, the Emperor or Haarlep. In a marked improvement from the state of affairs in January, however, she no longer has fewer fics than Kar’niss.

Taking a look at the fic category breakdown, we can see that M/F and M/M predominate for Tav, while there is very little F/F. Dividing the values by the total number of fics, 59.8% of all fics and 50.2% of otp:true fics are tagged M/F, 35.6% of all fics and 34.9% of otp:true fics are tagged M/M, 7.6% of all fics and 4.4% of otp:true fics are tagged F/F, and 13.2% of all fics and 14.2% of otp:true fics are tagged Other. As the proportions of M/F and F/F fics drop when otp:true is applied, I assume that it is more common for M/F and F/F pairings to have background ships or be a background ship (remember that if it is not otp:true, we have no idea if the pairing with Tav is the pairing category being counted.)

THE DARK URGE

The Dark Urge is in 38 of the top 300 ship tags of the BG3 fandom, a bit over half as many as Tav.

While Astarion once again is the most popular character to ship with the Dark Urge (2,165 fics), this time he actually has competition! Gortash/Dark Urge comes in at a very respectable second place with 1,594 fics (about three quarters of Astarion/Dark Urge’s total fic count) and actually beat Astarion by over 100 fics once you apply otp:true (562 fics for Astarion vs 691 fics for Gortash). But after Gortash we once again drop down to numbers we struggle to even see on the chart. Gale is the most visible with 402 fics total (Gale has fewer fics total with the Dark Urge than Astarion or Gortash have with otp:true applied). After that we have a group of Halsin, Shadowheart, and Karlach, all with between 120-150 fics. No other pairing has over 100 fics.

Dark Urge/Tav (99 fics) and Dark Urge/Orin (87 fics) have more fics than Dark Urge/Wyll (83 fics) or Dark Urge/Minthara (80 fics). For Wyll, this is a sign that his pairing with the Dark Urge is not very popular (he drops from #7 with Tav to #9 with the Dark Urge). For Minthara, however, this is a significant climb in the rankings – she was #15 with Tav and #10 with the Dark Urge.

But what’s really interesting to me is the fic category breakdown for the Dark Urge.

The Dark Urge has noticeably more M/M content than Tav does (47.0% vs 35.6% for all fics, 56.9% vs 34.9% for opt:true) and slightly more F/F content than Tav does (10.2% vs 7.6% for all fics, 5.2% vs 4.4% for otp:true), and correspondingly less F/M content. At 13.4% for all fics and 12.8% of otp:true fics, the proportion of Other fic stays just about the same as for Tav.

THE PLAYER CHARACTER

The PC is a combination of Tav, Dark Urge, Original Character, Reader, and You. The PC is in 64 of the top 162 pairings of the BG3 fandom (losing 5 pairings from Tav as I combined Tav/Tav, Tav/Dark Urge, Tav/Reader and so on into one PC/OC category).

The player character was involved in 76.0% of all pairings and 62.1% of otp:true pairings (that is, if you add up every fic for every pairing which the PC is in and divide it by sum of all fics for all BG3 pairings I tracked). This means that over three quarters of shipping in the BG3 fandom is with the player character. It’s not surprising, but it is notable – that’s a very large proportion.

Holy smokes, Astarion! He dominates the rankings even more than before. This time, I was curious to see how much. See below for a proportional representation of all of the PC pairings (note: because many fics have multiple pairings, this circle does not represent the total number of fics but rather the total number of times any pairing with the PC has been tagged).

Astarion composes a full 45% of all pairings with the PC, Gale is bit over 13%, Gortash is 7.3% for all fics and 11.3% of otp:true fics, while Halsin has the opposite trend with 6.3% of all fics and 4.9% of otp:true fics. Shadowheart, Karlach, Raphael, and Wyll all are between 2% and 4% (with Raphael once again beating Wyll). Lae’zel is down at #11 with 1.4% and Minthara is all the way at #16 with 0.9%.

Out of curiosity, I went through all of the PC’s pairings and sorted them by the gender of the person being shipped with the PC.

Oof.

85.7% of all PC ships are with men, 10.4% are with women, and 1.9% are nonbinary beings (Haarlep, the Emperor, and Omeluum). When you apply otp:true, 87.1% of the player character’s ships are with men, 9.9% are with women, and 1.3% are with nonbinary beings.

SHADOWHEART

Welp! Let’s take a look at that 10%, starting with Shadowheart.

If you add up all the fics for all the pairings that include Shadowheart and divide that by the sum of all fics for all 162 pairings I collected, you can see that she is present in 7.0% of pairings. Interestingly, this is true both for all fics and for otp:true fics. She is in 30 of the top 300 ship tags and 24 of the 162 pairings that remain once the player character tags are consolidated.

(I have shortened Shadowheart's name to SH and Shart in various charts to keep the labels from taking up too much room in the graph.)

Lae’zel/Shadowheart is in close competition with Shadowheart/Tav. When all the player characters are condensed into the PC, though, that gap widens.

Shadowheart has 980 fics with the PC, 694 with Lae’zel, 226 with Karlach, 111 with Gale, 61 with Astarion, 51 with Nocturne, 36 with Halsin, 26 with Minthara, and 21 with Wyll (her least popular ship with a main character, at #12). 7 of her top 20 pairings are threesomes – Aylin/Isobel/SH at #8 with 35 fics, Karlach/PC/SH at #9, Karlach/Lae’zel/SH at #10, Astarion/PC/SH at #13, Halsin/PC/SH at #14, Karlach/Wyll/SH at #17, and Gale/Lae’zel/SH at #18.

Lae’zel/Shadowheart has an unusually high number of otp:true fics – almost half of its total fic count. It seems more popular to ship Shadowheart with women than men – both her ships with Lae’zel and Karlach are more popular than Astarion, Gale, or Wyll and her threesomes with women have more fics than her threesomes with men.

The fic category breakdown for Shadowheart matches this expectation.

Boy howdy is Shadowheart fic gay! She has over twice as much F/F fic than M/F fic, just looking at raw numbers of fics. Looking at the proportions of her total fic count, F/F fic represents 71.4% of all of her fics, M/F fic is 35.2%, Other is 10.0%, and Multi is 18.8%. (These percentages add up to more than 100% because many fics tag multiple categories.) This also means that we can’t know that these numbers necessarily include Shadowheart – witness the numbers of M/M fics. All it means is that these categories were on fics in which a Shadowheart pairing was also tagged.

Looking at the otp:true numbers gives us a better picture of what fics where only Shadowheart is in a relationship are like (though this not necessarily an accurate idea of patterns for her overall, as less than a third of her total fics are otp:true). 76.4% of otp:true fics are F/F, 19.8% are M/F, 3.8% are Other, and for some reason 1.2% (9 fics) are M/M. Over three quarters of Shadowheart’s otp:true pairings are femmeslash.

Shadowheart’s fics with the PC character follow pretty much the same pattern as her ships more generally, albeit with slightly less F/F (likely from the loss of the relative behemoth that is Shadowheart/Lae’zel).

32.9% of her pairings with the PC have the M/F tag, 68.1% are tagged F/F, 11.3% are tagged Other, and 18.5% are tagged Multi. Applying otp:true, 25.7% are M/F, 62.6% are F/F, and 12.3% are Other (this likely includes a substantial portion of nonbinary PCs).

KARLACH

Karlach is present in 6.0% of all fic pairings and 5.4% of otp:true fic pairings. She has 31 ship tags in the top 300 ship tags, which condense down to 26 pairings when all player character stand ins are combined.

Her second most popular ship after Tav is with Wyll, though unlike with Shadowheart the pairing is not popular enough to give Tav a run for his/her/their money. Condensing all the player characters widens this gap significantly.

The PC is overwhelmingly Karlach’s most popular ship, with 890 fics. Wyll is second, with 327 fics – less than half as many. Shadowheart and Astarion follow with 226 and 157, respectively. Dammon is next, with 91 fics, and then Lae’zel has 65. She then has a number of threesomes, Minthara (#9 with 32 fics), and Gale (#11 with 18 fics). Halsin is her least popular pairing with a main character, coming in at #15 with 11 fics.

Surprisingly, for all that Karlach is fairly butch, her pairings with men are relatively more popular than we see with the more femme Shadowheart. The category statistics illustrate this clearly.

Compared to Shadowheart, Karlach has a lower proportion of F/F and higher proportions of M/F and Multi fics. F/F is tagged on 51.8% of her fics, M/F on 42.5%, Other on 12.3% and Multi on 27.7%. (Remember that fics can be tagged with multiple categories and that just because a category is tagged doesn’t mean that Karlach is involved in that category.) Looking at otp:true gives us a look at fics where she is the sole focus. F/F is 55.0% of her otp:true fics, M/F drops to 34.4%, Multi drops to 6.1%, and Other stays fairly high at 10.4%.

In Karlach’s pairings with the player character, things change significantly.

It immediately becomes clear that the large number of M/F fics in her general pairings were largely due to her relatively popular ships with Wyll, Astarion, and Dammon. F/F dominates Karlach’s pairings with the PC with 64.0% (67.8% with otp:true applied) of fics, which puts her at just slightly less than Shadowheart. M/F is tagged in 28.5% of her fics with the PC (14.0% with otp:true applied), Multi is tagged 19.4% but drops to 1.2% for otp:true, and Other remains high with 18.0% of fics and 20.2% of otp:true fics with the PC.

Back in January, I noted that of the main cast, Karlach had the highest proportion of ships with nonbinary OCs. I didn’t track the breakdown of OC subcategories this time, but the high numbers in the Other category bear it out.

LAE'ZEL

Counting all fics for all pairings in which Lae’zel is tagged, she is in a mere 3.8% of BG3 pairings, though it rises to 4.5% when otp:true is applied. She is in 23 of the top 300 ship tags, a number that drops down to 18 when I consolidate the player character tags together.

Shadowheart/Lae’zel has twice as many fics as Lae’zel/Tav. Looking at the situation with the PC does not change this much.

Unlike any other main character, Lae’zel’s most popular ship is not with the PC but with Shadowheart. She has 694 fics with Shadowheart, 355 with the PC, 65 with Karlach, 26 with Gale, 26 with Wyll, 25 with Astarion, 16 with Minthara, and 12 with Halsin. She is in an unusually low number of threesomes – only 4. It’s notable though how skewed her numbers are towards women – a threesome with Karlach and Shadowheart has more fics than any of her pairings with a canon man. The various whole team multiship pairings, none of which have more than 11 fics, comprise most of the tail end of her ship list.

Speaking of the tail end of her ship list, what happens when we condense the player character tags is that Lae’zel does not reach a full 20 ships – she drops to 18 pairings. She has more than this, of course, but my methodology ignores all pairings with fewer than 5 fics (which means that my friend’s Lae’zel/Astarion/Tav fic is not counted). Therefore, Lae’zel’s 19th and 20th most popular pairings have 4 fics or fewer. I have represented these missing pairings with little :( emojis, because this is a sad state of affairs.

This is a symptom of a state of affairs in which Lae’zel is just not very popular in the AO3 side of BG3 fandom. Her most popular ship is Shadowheart’s second most popular ship, and the numbers crater after that. No Lae’zel ship other than Shadowheart and the PC has more than 100 fics.

Lae’zel’s most popular ships being women is demonstrated clearly by the fic category breakdown.

Wow! At a whopping 76.3% of all of Lae’zel’s fics and 88.9% of Lae’zel’s otp:true fics, Lae’zel has a higher proportion of F/F fic than Shadowheart. Granted, they’re both sizable portions of each other’s total F/F count. 26.1% of Lae’zel’s fics have the M/F tag, though this drops to a mere 7.1% when otp:true is applied. Other is tagged in 11.6% of fics but drops to 2.0% with otp:true. 18.1% of her fics are tagged Multi but this likewise drops to 4.4% with otp:true.

The pertinent question for Lae’zel is how much of her F/F count is due to her pairing with Shadowheart? How gay are her pairings with the PC?

The answer is... still pretty gay! F/F is not quite as dominant, with 67.3% of all her fics with the PC and 80.0% of her fics where only Lae’zel/PC is tagged – but 80% is a still a really high proportion! This indicates to me that a lot of the M/F in the “All Fics” chart likely does not involve Lae’zel. M/F is tagged in 33.5% of her fics with the PC, a number which is more than halved to 12.7% when otp:true is applied. 13.2% of her fics are tagged Other, which drops to 5.5% with otp:true – much less than for Shadowheart and Karlach. It seems either Lae’zel is not as popular for nonbinary OCs or that a large proportion of the Other tag is from mind flayer Tavs/Durges and people don’t write Lae’zel with a mind flayer love interest.

One other notable fact is that Lae’zel is the only female companion without any otp:true M/M PC fic. It could be due to her low fic numbers in the first place, but I prefer to think that Lae’zel fans are simply more fastidious about correctly tagging fic. It certainly fits her character.

MINTHARA

Ah, Minthara. Unquestionably the least popular of the main romanceable characters in BG3, her pairings only comprise 1.1% of all BG3 fanfic pairings, a number that rises to a whopping(/sarcastic) 1.4% of otp:true pairings. She has only 14 ship tags in the 300 most popular ship tags for BG3, a number that drops further to a mere 9 pairings once I’ve combined all the player character tags.

What’s notable about Minthara’s ship tags is the popularity of the Dark Urge relative to Tav. Minthara has 146 fics with Tav and 80 with the Dark Urge. This is a higher proportion than other main characters have. It may be because more people write her on evil routes (which likely disproportionately feature the Dark Urge) or because she has some very good lines for the Dark Urge and their Slayer form.

Another observation is the lack of primary non-PC ships. The other characters that I look at all have a major non-PC ship – Shadowheart/Lae’zel, Karlach/Wyll, Gale/Astarion, Wyll/Astarion, Halsin/Astarion. Minthara doesn’t really have that. Her most popular non-PC ship is Orin, at #5 and with a mere 45 fics. This is illustrated clearly once all the player character tags are combined.

The PC dominates Minthara’s pairings to an extent not seen with any other character, not even Astarion. She drops from 234 fics with the PC (65 otp:true) to 45 fics with Orin (26 otp:true), 32 with Karlach (16 otp:true) and 26 with Shadowheart (11 otp:true). Every other pairing has 16 or less fics. Tying into that, Minthara has very few pairings with 5 or more fics. She does not even have enough for a top 10! I have replaced her missing pairings with the :( emoji because this is sad.

Another notable thing about this chart, though, is how few fics Minthara has just in general. Lae’zel and Wyll, the other neglected companions, both have at least 500 fics with their most popular partner. Minthara does not even break 250. In fact, none of her pairings with someone other than the PC have over 50 fics.

Another interesting fact is that Minthara is the only character in this analysis to not have any threesomes or moresomes in her pairings with over 5 fics. She doesn’t share, it seems.

For some reason, Minthara has 8 ships with Councillor Florrick of all people. And it’s not all by the same author, which is what I would expect for a somewhat out there pairing. Presumably someone out there wrote a really good fic which then inspired others to play with the idea. In a small fandom like Minthara’s, one fic like that can make quite a difference.

As can be expected, Minthara’s fic categories are pretty damn gay.

F/F is tagged in 79.0% of her fics (77.6% of otp:true fics). M/M is tagged in 21.3% of her fics (17.1% of otp:true fics), Other in 6.1% (4.6% otp:true), and Multi in 8.9% though it drops to 1.3% of her otp:true fics. With these numbers, Minthara is arguably the gayest major character in the BG3 fandom by fic count, though Lae’zel beats her when you take otp:true into effect.

This pattern holds true when looking at her ship with the player character. 77.8% of her fics with the PC are tagged F/F (73.8% of otp:true fics), 23.5% are tagged M/F (15.4% otp:true), 8.5% are tagged Other (10.8% otp:true), and 9.4% are tagged Multi (3.1% otp:true). The latter is a bit confusing given that she has no multiship pairings. It may include collections of Reader/[X] fics that include Minthara.

PART 2

Welp. I’ve run into the tumblr post image limit. For part 2 of this essay, which discusses Astarion, Gale, Wyll, and Halsin and then compares all 8 of the main characters against each other on a variety of metrics, see this link.

[official-cvntified-gay]

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅ cocky and competitive abby | wc: 1.5k

𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧, navigating through the narrow hallway that was dimly lit, the cold metal walls echoing with the distant hum of machinery. You and Abby had been assigned to infiltrate a high-security facility—standard spy work, really. But whenever you and Abby were paired up, standard always became something of a competition.

"Bet I’ll crack the vault before you even make it past the first firewall," Abby said smugly, her voice low but dripping with confidence as the two of you made your way through the shadows. Her aviators were pushed up on her head, her smirk unmistakable even in the dark.

You scoffed, adjusting your utility belt. "Please, Anderson. I’ve already got half the codes memorized."

She cast a glance your way, the corner of her mouth twitching up. “Oh yeah? Keep telling yourself that. Don’t get too comfortable in my shadow, sweetheart.”

Your blood buzzed at the challenge. The way Abby was always so cocky—it both infuriated you and made you want to prove her wrong. Every mission turned into a battle of who could do it faster, quieter, better.

“Let’s see who gets to the control room first,” you shot back, already knowing the route you’d take.

Abby chuckled, that low, confident sound. “You’re on.” She stepped closer, her breath teasing your ear for just a second. “Try to keep up.”

Without another word, she was gone, slipping through the corridor with all the grace of a predator on the hunt. You rolled your eyes and followed, determined not to let her win this time.

You rounded a corner, only to see Abby already at the control panel, tapping away. She turned her head ever so slightly as you came into view, her grin wider than it had any right to be.

“Don’t worry,” she said casually, “I’ll save some of the fun for you. Not that you’ll need it, since I’ve already disarmed half the security.”

You bit back a retort, taking a position at the adjacent console. “Security’s disarmed, huh? That’s cute. I just bypassed the surveillance cameras from my comm on the way in.”

Abby raised an eyebrow but didn’t look fazed. “Sure, you did. Just like that time you almost cracked the encryption before I stepped in.”

You huffed, fingers flying over your own console, determined to match her pace. “You know what your problem is, Anderson? You talk a big game, but you never know when to shut up and focus.”

She chuckled, her fingers still tapping rapidly on her keys. “And yet I’m still faster than you. What’s that say about you?”

Your reply was cut off by the quiet ping of her console unlocking. She straightened up and gave you a mock salute. “Vault’s open. Guess I win. Again.”

You rolled your eyes, even though you couldn’t stop a small smile from creeping up. “Yeah, yeah. But who’s got the intel we actually need?”

Abby frowned for just a second, then glanced at the screen. You had already transferred the data to your secure drive. She let out a disbelieving laugh. “You sneaky—”

“I’m just better, Anderson.” You gave her a wink as you turned, ready to make your exit.

But before you could take a step, Abby was in front of you, her hand catching your wrist in a firm but playful grip. She tugged you closer, her lips hovering dangerously near your ear.

“You love pushing my buttons, don’t you?” she whispered, her voice dripping with cocky amusement.

You swallowed, refusing to let her see the effect she had on you. “Somebody has to keep that ego in check.”

Her smirk deepened, and she stepped back, her hand still resting casually on your wrist. “Admit it,” she said, her voice low and teasing. “You like it when I win.”

You laughed softly, shaking your head. “In your dreams, Abby.”

She leaned in again, her breath brushing your neck, her tone smug. “You’re in them more than you think.”

You shoved her lightly, trying to play it cool, but your heart was racing. “Let’s get out of here before you start believing your own hype.”

As you both slipped through the hallways, backtracking toward the extraction point, you couldn’t help but think that this constant battle between the two of you—this back-and-forth, always trying to one-up each other—was starting to feel less like competition, and more like… something else.

And judging by the cocky grin Abby kept flashing your way, she knew it too.

The two of you moved through the shadows with practiced ease, slipping past sensors and cameras like it was second nature. You’d worked together long enough to anticipate each other’s moves, but that didn’t mean the game ever got old. If anything, it was what kept you sharp—and what kept things interesting.

As you approached the rendezvous point, Abby’s pace slowed slightly, just enough to let you catch up to her. She flashed that signature cocky grin, her hand brushing against yours for just a second longer than necessary. It was subtle, but it sent a familiar warmth through your chest. You couldn’t help but smirk back.

“Still can’t believe you thought you had me beat back there,” she teased, her voice low but filled with that playful edge that always made your heart race.

You rolled your eyes, but your smile gave you away. “Please. I had the data before you even stepped into the room.”

Abby shook her head, laughing quietly as she glanced over at you, her expression softening just a bit. “Always gotta keep me on my toes, huh?”

You shot her a sideways glance, raising an eyebrow. “What, you’d get bored if I didn’t?”

Abby’s smirk grew as she took a step closer, her voice dropping to that low, teasing tone she knew drove you crazy. “Bored? Never. But we both know you like it when I get competitive.”

Your pulse quickened as she closed the distance between you, her body just barely brushing against yours. It was a dangerous dance, one you had perfected over the course of countless missions together. The banter, the competition—it was all part of the fun. But beneath the teasing and the one-upmanship, there was something more, something real that neither of you could deny.

You leaned in, your voice just a whisper. “Admit it—you like it too.”

Abby’s smile softened, and for a moment, the cocky front dropped just enough for you to see the affection in her eyes. “Maybe I do,” she murmured, her hand finding yours and giving it a quick squeeze before she pulled away, already heading toward the exit.

You shook your head, grinning as you followed her out into the night. This was how it always went. The competition, the banter—it was your way of keeping things fun, keeping things fresh. But at the end of the day, there was no question where you both stood.

Once you were safely out of the facility and back at the extraction point, the two of you finally relaxed, the adrenaline from the mission starting to fade. Abby leaned against the side of the getaway vehicle, crossing her arms and giving you that smug, lopsided grin again.

“Well, another successful mission,” she said, her voice teasing. “And once again I’m the one who—”

You cut her off with a quick kiss, catching her off guard as you pressed your lips to hers. She blinked in surprise but quickly melted into it, her hands instinctively sliding to your waist. When you pulled back, she was still smirking, but her eyes had softened in that way they only did when it was just the two of you.

“Okay, okay,” she murmured, her voice quieter now. “I guess we’re both winners tonight.”

You laughed, leaning your forehead against hers. “You keep telling yourself that, Anderson.”

For a moment, the two of you just stood there, your arms wrapped around each other, the playful tension between you settling into something softer, more intimate.

“This never gets old, does it?” you said softly, your fingers playing with the hem of her jacket.

Abby hummed, pressing a kiss to your temple. “Not with you.”

It wasn’t just about the missions. The constant competition, the teasing, the cocky grins—it was all part of the game you’d been playing since the beginning. But beneath it all, there was something more. This was how you kept things exciting, how you kept the spark alive even after all these missions, all these close calls.

And Abby? She might be cocky, but she was yours. And that was all that mattered.

She pulled back slightly, raising an eyebrow as she flashed you another grin. “So, when’s round two? I need another shot at showing you up.”

You laughed, shaking your head as you leaned in for another kiss. “You can try, Anderson. But we both know how that’ll end.”

She pulled you closer, her lips brushing against yours as she whispered, “Yeah. With me winning.”

And just like that, the game was back on. But this time, as you drove off into the night, Abby’s hand resting on your thigh, you couldn’t help but feel that you’d both already won.

✰ her in that bomber jacket is doing things to me😩

[toulousewayne]

🌿🍃Toxic Lover: Pt: I

Nightwing X male!reader with a former team who had become Poison Ivy like meta-human.

Summary:Your a former Titan teammate, you and Dick have unresolved feelings and you become infected with the same toxins and chemicals that turned Poison Ivy into a meta-human.

————————

It was a simple mission. Get in and get out. It wasn’t supposed to go the way it had.

Y/n was a skilled fighter and vigilante, he trained with Black Canary, WildCat, Wonder Woman and the League of Assassins. He operated as solo vigilante since he could remember.

He worked with most of the league and helped them as much as he could. He helped Batman and Robin a lot since he did very similar missions to them. When Dick formed the Titans and went solo as Nightwing he asked Y/n to join him. Y/n worked well with Starfire and Raven, he had fun playing games with Cyborg and Best Boy. He often hung out with Dick and Donna and Wally would visit often too.

Y/n took some time from the team and did solo missions for a while before being called by Dick to help him,Wally and Donna with a rescue mission in Metropolis.

“We just need to find the data bank with the information containing Ivy’s records and research. Luthor was help to gather and stored it in his lab. We need to get the information and destroy any bioweapon schematics.” Dick instructed.

“Anything we should be aware of,”Y/n perked up from his seat in the jet. Donna adjusted her sliver lasso to her waist,”Is Ivy herself involved?”

“As far as Batman’s intel can confirm she’s been missing for the last three months.” He confirms.

“Great so no giant kale bushes to crush us, noted.” Wally quipped. Y/n chuckled as Donna and Dick rolled their eyes.

——-

The Quad split into pairs;Wally and Donna and Dick and Y/n. Donna and Wally took the research offices upstairs meanwhile, Dick and Y/n took the lower levels.

Dick sneak into some of the office while Y/n found a hidden lab. He took photos, and took a flash drive to take the data from the server. He found several vials, tubes and plants on a desk and took photos.

“Nightwing, I’m in this lab. It looks they’ve extracted some of Ivy’s original pheromones and try to weaponize them.”

“I’ll be there soon…kinda busy.” He heard a loud bang and a punch. Y/n turned around to see a scientist and three guards at the doorway.

“Sorry you found this, but unfortunately Mr. Luthor doesn’t what this getting out. Boys don’t let him leave.” The scientist quickly fled as the guards moved in.

“Sorry lapdogs,but I’m leaving with the drive.” Y/n sprang into action and started fighting.

“It’s a trap,you have to get out of that room.” Nightwing’s voice filed the hero’s ear. Y/n managed to take out two goons but the last one was the biggest and blocked the only exit. He rushed Y/n and managed to forcefully shove him into the computer and servers. Knocking Y/n off his balance and disorienting him. He had cuts on his faces and blood trickled from his lip.Then, while he was stunned he took him and threw him into the desk with vitals and pheromones.

The two guard got the their feet and assisted in beating him to a pulp. Y/n was loosing his consciousness and went in and out. “..Dick—help.” He winced.

The large goon took the remaining vitals and smashed them over the hero. He threw the plant cart on him too and took out a lighter.

“Mr. Luthor sends his regards.” He threw the lighter at the spilled chemical and engulfed the room in flames.

——

The fire spread through out the facility and Nightwing managed to find the source. Toria and Flash managed to get to him but the flames were to high.

“We need to save him!” Nightwing tried to go towards the labs but Toria stopped him.

“You can’t go in there you’ll die!” He tried to push her but she wasn’t budgeting. Tears streaming down his face he begged his friends.

“Please, we have to try, please.” Wally nodded.”Get him to the surface I’ll try to get to Y/n. Go now!” He barked. Toria grabbed Nightwing and sped out of the lower levels as Flash created tornados to clear up the flames.

—-

Dick set on the jet without his mask, tears, bruises, and soot. Donna stood guard watching as the building’s flames were put out by firefighters. Wally entered the vessel with a stretcher with a white sheet on top.The form on it was Y/n’s body. Dick didn’t say a word as more tears formed in his eyes.

“It’s all my fault.” He hissed. Donna placed a hand on his shoulder,”It’s not Dick, you can’t blame—“

“It is. I asked him to come, I asked both of you to come and it nearly killed you all. I—l..” Dick broke down in tears and shouted. He rocked hisself and sob and Donna comforted him. Wally placed a hand on his other shoulder and talked him through it.

——-

Dick sat in his seat at the cemetery in Gotham. The small crowd of heroes dressed in black one by one left the small private ceremony for Y/n. Dinah gave a worried look at Dick whose gaze hadn’t left the spot where Y/n’s casket had been lowered into the earth and covered with fresh soil.

Bruce stood next to her and they didn’t speak right away but Dinah broke the silence. “Diana told me what happened from Donna. He hasn’t been the same.” Bruce didn’t reply.

“Well he be okay?” She hummed. Bruce turned to his friend and looked back at his son.”They were in love Dinah, it was obvious to most of us but not them. I’m not sure he if knew he loved Y/n as more than a friend, but I know he won’t stop until he can give him justice.”

“You think he’ll kil-“

“I hope not but I can only help him through this, I’ve learned a long time ago to not try to pressure him into a decision.” He walked to Dick and gave his shoulder a squeeze.

“Let’s go son.”

——-

Y/n saw his life flash before his eyes during his attack. Between each rib being fractured, another punch to the back, or kick to the stomach he felt his favorite memories flood his eyes.

From training the younger members of Young Justice with Dick’s little brother the third Robin, game nights with the Titans, going to a concert with Dick he practically dragged him to.

That concert was the best night of his life he felt so carefree, not birdied with the responsibilities of being a more experienced hero. Not feeling like he couldn’t tell his best friend how he truly felt, and just watch from a distance as he went out dates with other girls or laughed with the guys at games nights.

Y/n knew he was in deep shit from the moment he met the Last Flying Grayson, and he didn’t care.

The band was one he like since he was in Middle school,and he begged Dick for weeks to go with him, eventually he agreed to go because he felt bad for missing so many plans to help his family with their own missions.

“I hope they aren’t a snooze fest because I could have stayed home and listened to Tim explain Quant-Time travel.” He joked as Y/n pulled on his hoodie he just purchased.

He shoved his shoulders,”Don’t even Grayson these guys are the best. You’re not gonna regret it. Plus, don’t act like you don’t love Timmy’s rambles.” Y/n fired back.

He held his hands in surrender. “Hey I had to think of something.” Y/n took Dick’s hand and dragged him into the arena just as the music blared through the speakers. Y/n was unaware of the crimson color that painted Dick’s face. And to busy to notice the stole glances Dick took through the night.

—-

The smell of smoke burned Y/n’s nostrils and he chocked on it. But the blood in his mouth took out some of the harsh smells. The flames were roaring in the room and shortly everything began to spin. Y/n barely regained consciousness before everything swiftly went to black.

Then it went Green.

The green light became paler and paler and the sound of a heartbeat echoed. Almost in slow motion. Most of the light became closer too. Became bright white and the sounds of Gotham City came hard and fast like a gunshot.

Y/n stood up in the middle of the street and he noticed something wasn’t right. The last thing he remembered was dying in Metropolis and now he’s in old Gotham. To his left was the build up of traffic and to his right was Gotham Cemetery. He tried to move but fell to the ground.

“The fuck.” His hoarse voice choked out. He noticed his arms were covered in slime of some kind and leaves. He saw a small puddle and took a glance at his reflection. His face was the same but more beautiful, sharper features, deep green iris, and fuller lips.

“Hey freak,get outta the way!” A voice shouted and honked his horned.

Y/n snapped his head up and grew easily frustrated,his head was still spinning and blaring horn was causing more pain.

“Ugh, can’t you be idiotic somewhere else.” With his hand on the ground it began to shake and large vines jumped through the concrete and began to crush the car. The driver managed to get out before it was crushed to pieces. Y/n slowly got to his feet and stumbled.

“That’s new.” Several other drivers fled their cars and screams. Two officers drew their weapons and order Y/n to freeze. Something in Y/n slowly turned and began to change in his feelings toward the police.

“Freeze Freak!” The older officer hisses,Y/n cocks his head to the side with smirk.

“Pathetic pigs, you never appreciate the things you take for granted. You worthless meat sacks.”

The two officers look at each other,”Meat-what?” It’s short lived as vines bursted through the growing and take them prisoner. Y/n strolls over to them. He chuckles.

“Mother Earth wouldn’t be to proud of you. Nature will always win.” He takes his nails and scratches both across the face and then plants begin to grow out their faces and they gag. More large vines rise and take Y/n underground.

—————

He re-emerges in the old Gotham Greenhouse in Robinson Park. More vines and flowers bloom in the old building giving it a new look. The old overgrown plants become green and flourish again with life.

“Men have ruined you, I don’t know what yet, I know can revive you. But I promise you will be avenged. I am Mother Nature’s new branch and I will take Gotham first then, we will cleanse the rest of this planet.” He laughs to himself before the sound of glass shatters.

He worlds around to see Nightwing.

“Y/n,what happened to you. You were dead.” Y/n felt conflicted. On one hand he wanted run to Dick and get his help, but on the other hand he wanted to crush him and turn him into mulch.

Nightwing drew closer, “This isn’t you N/N. I don’t know what happened in the last 72 hours but you aren’t yourself. I can help you but you have to let me.” His voice was strained like his had been yelling or not speaking. It didn’t go unnoticed but something in Y/n didn’t care and he was constantly fighting a battle within himself.

“Dick—what?”

“I can help you,Y/n you have to understand I care about you. But you have to stop.” Nightwing earpiece buzzed and Y/n could heard the voice of Robin from a nearby plant. The words: Cops. Killed. Poisoned. Y/n.

Nightwing turned to him with a blank expression and a tighter grip on his weapons.

“Y/n, let me take you get help. I promise I won’t let anyone harm you.” His voice wasn’t as raw as it was. It was stern yet cautious.

The switch in Y/n flipped and the smirk and sultry voice returned.

“Dick, join me,” he persuades, “Become my Adam and help me flourish this place into a new garden. Just for the two of use.”

Nightwing took a defensive stanch. “Can’t do that. I’m sorry.” The last part was a whisper but Y/n caught it.

“Well then I’m sorry too.” With the flick of his wrist and two large flowers sprouted. The plants around Nightwing were now healthily and quickly attacked him.

Y/n rose several feet in the air on a seat of large leaves and petals. Nightwing dodged the vines but is eventually became captured after miscalculating a step after trying to not harm Y/n.

He’s wrapped in vines and is unable to move. The vines bring him closer to Y/n who purrs.

He runs a thumb across Dick’s lips. “I never noticed.” He whispered.

“What?” Dick huffed. Y/n takes his face and brings it closer. He has a soft smile and Dick is conflicted.

“How much I wanted to do this.” He kisses Dick. He tries break free of his binds but after a few moments he stops and kisses back and soon the kiss deepens and Y/n has to stop. He places his forehead against Dick’s and sighs.

Dick’s eyes are glossed over and his blue eyes are a pale green.

“Dick?”

“Yes, my Love?” He says deadpans. Y/n sighs to himself and releases him.

The virus in Y/n grows stronger. And he laughs to himself.

“We have a few housewarming gifts to give out. Fetch them for me Darlin.” Nightwing mindless obeys and leaves Y/n who glances at his appearance in the water fountain for the first time noticing the torn up suit he was buried in.

“It’s time for a new Harvest.”

[felassan]

Ive heard that we'll be able to load our previous dai world state but maybe it said something in a different way and I misunderstood. We get to "make choices" but we can't load it exactly? What does that mean for the inquisitor? (I want to see my little guy lol) or maybe I'm just confused, I'm sorry

hello! ◕‿◕ All good! We will see the Inquisitor in the game. Worldstates will not be loaded directly, as in from save files or The Keep anything. They said that during the character creation process, we will "be able to customize [our] Inquisitor from the last game's story and make a few key decisions that will impact how DA:TV begins". [source, two] There won’t be any way to carry the Inquisitor's appearance 'data' over from DA:I into the game [source: the Discord] (because the tech is too different) so it sounds like it will be a case of re-creating them from scratch in DA:TV's new CC. For the world state, DA:TV will not use the Keep [source]. DA:TV will not read saves from DA:O, DAII or DA:I [source], because the technology is very different and they wanted this to be in the client. How we will 'tell' the game what our choices were will look a little different this time. They said:

"In an interview with IGN, Dragon Age: The Veilguard Game Director Corinne Busche says the ability to import your choices is “fully integrated into the character creator this time around.” “What’s not lost on us is that it’s been 10 years since existing players have played. They might not remember [what they did in previous games],” Busche explains. “They might need that refresher and we don’t want new players to feel like they’re missing out on those decisions. So in the character creator, I like to call it last time on Dragon Age, but you can go into your past adventures and it, actually through tarot cards, tells you what the context was and what decision you want to make.” Busche also confirms that The Veilguard players won’t have to link to their accounts for this option, as you’ll be able to play the game fully offline." [source]

This is just speculation on my part, but what I imagine is like - you know how in the start of DA:I, you select the Inquisitor's race and class from tarot cards? Something like that, but for certain choices we made in our past adventures instead, and for less choices than there are in the Keep (which has sooo many choices and tiles), so maybe mostly just major ones? the way it's described reminds me somewhat of Mass Effect Genesis, only instead of a 'comic' style, it's with tarot cards. (/end speculation ^^) I hope this helped. :>

[tamberrio]

Do you guys see my vision do you

Nerdy thoughts about characters and the world in the au under the cut (Slight spoilers for plot of both BSD and Reverse:1999 I guess?)

ok ok so:

Dazai is the Time Keeper and works at the St. Pavlov Foundation. The ADA would basically be the small branch of the Foundation that Vertin oversees in the actual story. To that end, I can snag a couple character rolls for the BSD characters.

Dazai is Vertin, obviously. He was just as rebellious as a kid as she was, and made friends with the outside world (Oda) only to watch them die to the storm. So now the Foundation makes him go to the different time periods and collect data on why he and his suitcase are immune. Since I know Vertin is like 16 in the game, I thought I should age everyone down just slightly to fit that teenagers-doing-dangerous-things-that-should-be-left-to-adults vibe, so now he is 18 when he finds Atsushi, who is 14.

Kunikida would probably play a Sonnetto role, being the studious type who tries to follow all the rules and make sure the Time Keeper stays on track.

Yosano would probably be best suited as a Doctor in the Foundation but is saved strictly for the ADA’s branch. Probably a Medicine Pocket type of character? I actually have a draft of her where I take heavy inspiration from X’s butterfly scarf thing because thematically I think it’s perfect. I don’t know if she would exactly fit Mesmer Jr.’s role, since it includes a betrayal against Vertin along with Dubious medical practices within her family. Although the dubious medical practices thing could fit well, I don’t think the betrayal really suits her character in that regard.

Ranpo wouldn’t be an arcanist, but we have actual human characters in the story who are playable (like Ezra is human I believe), so he could use his deduction skills that way. They’d probably try to keep him away from the front lines when possible, so as not to risk him if the storm appears.

Thematically, Atsushi would be Regulus, since she’s the first to be found by Vertin in the actual story. Otherwise, Atsushi would be completely different in terms of backstory. It’s hard to tell in these sketches, but I tried to give him a coat similar to Regulus but not recognizable as such. He’d be a Beast Aflatus, obviously. Arcanists are very much discriminated against in the actual story, so that would fit really well with him. I figured Atsushi could be immune to the storm too, since his tiger has the power to cut through abilities, similar to how Dazai can nullify them.

Ango would be Madam Z, because of his strenuous relationship with the Time Keeper due to past betrayals, and his want to keep the Time Keeper out of harms way. Mori could be his direct supervisor for a time, and Ango can be complicit in the “trap” made for Dazai to get him to be more agreeable. He’d help reduce the influence the Foundation has on the Time Keeper’s decisions. Fukuzawa could be good for this role of “overlooking the team” as well.

As for the Foundation itself, I think it would be a mix of the government and the port mafia, while having Manus Vindictae be the Decay of Angels/Rats (Fyodor would make a really good villain in that regard). Although it’s hard to picture some of the port mafia members working at the Foundation, I can still pick and choose who goes where.

Every other character probably wouldn’t have a direct comparison, but that’s what I have so far. This is probably WAY easier to follow if you know the plot of Reverse: 1999 but I’ll come up with a more comprehensive doc later.

[sheepispink]

⋆˚｡⋆୨✧୧˚ 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑬𝑺𝑪𝑶𝑹𝑻 𝑷𝑹𝑶𝑻𝑶𝑪𝑶𝑳 ˚୨✧୧⋆｡˚⋆

Series Masterlist

Chapter 1: First Impressions

wc: 2.7k

It’s been three months since you first started your job at the division of security operations, a dream you’ve had since you were little. You’ve always wanted to be part of something meaningful, even if you were just a small function in the code. Speaking of code, you hoped to be on the technological side of things, never having really been a hands-on person—well, at least not confrontational hands-on like this job requires. You’d figured it was the perfect choice; what job wasn’t desperate for another programmer? The research you did on this place was insane; you wanted to make the best impression and land a job straight out of university, and your hard work paid off because pretty soon you got that letter. It was an assistant position for some random manager. Okay, maybe it wasn’t exactly what you hoped, but everyone started somewhere. Besides, experience gets you places you were sure you’d learn something in the time you spent working under them. Right?

Wrong. You rock back and forth on your chair for the third time that hour, absolutely bored out of your mind like a little kid restrained from toys. Sorting out the filing cabinets was suddenly the least of your problems when they gave you access to at least a hundred emails to read through. Not to mention your manager practically gave you permission to respond to them however you see fit (not without a glare and warning if you said something stupid, though). Every day you clicked a stupid delete button, the more you started wondering if this was an internship or just absolute hell. Once you hear your manager’s footsteps approaching again, you sit back up with a long sigh, knowing you could either continue this work or sit in a toilet stall and play games on your phone. The latter was looking more tempted by the second, but you quickly reminded yourself that you’re 23 now, and this is work! Clicking on the first email, you’re quick to delete another empty report from an intern.

Your eyes flitter over the next few emails, clicking away mindlessly before you pause..an escort is needed? Only two emails in, and this one seems a little different from the usual data assignment in an Excel document. This one was addressed by another manager, and damn, their title sounds fancy even if you don’t know what the hell it means. You sit up in your seat as your finger runs against the mousepad of the laptop, scrolling down the page. This could well be the stupidest thing to consider. Who would actually consider being an escort to some random agent all the way to Miami?? And stay there until he’s done?? In your own hotel?!

You, that’s who. You didn’t care if he made you carry his luggage or if you did paperwork for the whole plane trip. This could be your big break, working with an actual, experienced agent. If you could just help him out a smidge, that could take you a mile in your work! Peeking over your desk, you make sure your manager isn’t looking before quickly writing back the most sophisticated response along with a quick mention of your name as a candidate. You’d probably be screwed if he did find out you practically promoted yourself on his behalf, but realistically, he won’t. The chair creaks as you lean back again, groaning softly as you remember that an email response will definitely take a week to come back.

Before you know it, you're already switching departments and knee-deep in a tonne of new documents to fill out for the trip. Why the hell hadn’t this agent gotten his passport renewed?! ‘Does he never go on holiday?? Is he an overworker or just the biggest shut-in ever??” You weigh up all the options as you step your way into the small desk space they allowed you to occupy, your hands preoccupied with a laptop, papers, and way too many things in your head. Oddly, this busy office block feels like home, like the corridors of your university cafeteria. This also means you know how to manoeuvre through this situation with ease, getting to your desk quickly and efficiently with no awkward interactions. Though you used to take your time and wish you’d bump into the love of your life and he’d pick up your books, you wanted this job so badly that it was out the window. Thankfully, this had been one of the best first weeks you could have so far; it was practically second nature—

You bite your lip so hard that you can’t tell if the pain is from the blood on your teeth or the hot coffee seeping through the back of your new shirt. Groaning softly, you turn to face the culprit, hoping that they’ll be nice about it like you were. Accidents happen, you think; maybe he just slipped. After all, there’s probably a bunch of interns here too; they’d be in a much worse position than you. But there's no culprit waiting to say sorry or offer to fix your shirt—only a man swerving through the crowds with a suspicious coffee mug that is only half full as he rushes through. Great. Not even a prince charming who will pay for your dry cleaning.

It’s only a few days later when that same man walks by again, and again, and again, until eventually he stops in front of your desk. You lift your eyes from the small little corner you own, stacks of paperwork before you, just because the agent you were escorting was that important.

“Hey- you’re my escort, right?”

And unfortunately, that agent was this man before you. Yes, you would have thrown a fit about the coffee; yes, you would have refused to work with him or forced him to apologise. But damn, you just really wanted that job.

You nod your head, sitting up a little straighter as you push away any of the burning distaste for him and give him a polite look. “Yes, I’m your escort.”“You sure..? I mean.. you kind of just look like any odd intern, no offense. Actually, the interns get a better desk than you.” His blue eyes pierce into you, one hand rubbing at the stubble on his jaw as he raises an eyebrow at you. Only now have you actually gotten a full look at him and his well… unkept appearance. His hair is tousled, stray pieces fall over his face, and dark bags tug his eyes down. If you had to predict his future, you’d be sure he’s on the path to being the embodiment of a die-hard metal fan. You also had a pretty confident guess he’d end up being the boyish lazy agent upon seeing how he grabs one of the sweets off your small pot and pops it into his mouth.

“I can show you the documents, Mr. Kennedy, if you really want—I’m pretty sure I'm your escort.” His words had annoyed you a little, but you couldn’t just get angry at him. He’s practically a veteran agent, and it’s clear that he doesn’t even know you existed before today; no one really has.“I’ve had enough of doing paperwork; I’m just glad you’re doing mine. So, what have you got planned for me, escort?” He’s a little sassy, it seems, definitely not what you had expected, but you just had to remember to stay professional and keep to expectations. You stifle a sigh as you begin talking again. Maybe this really was a bad idea.

At first it didn't seem to be too bad; you’d carry his important documents stiffly as you escorted him to the meeting with another high ranking official or the like. Even if they were boring, you had to remind yourself that life had its stepping stones, and you’d just have to work yourself through this one to be able to comfortably pay your rent this month on top of chasing your dream. He’d disappear some days off on a mission before he’d come back looking far more grouchier than before. It only seemed to worsen as you soon came to realise that, in the simplest words, Leon had just as much hope left for himself as Chris Redfield did—which was in the depths of hell. You’ve watched him be shouted at numerous times in the passing days over lost work, unfinished reports, denial of missions, and straight up.. slacking off. It was concerning to say the least, and you’re starting to regret all of this already. Most days he barely even had a routine, too hungover from last night’s drinking session to think twice before he started another one at midday.

“Um.. Mr. Kennedy?” You have to speed walk just to catch up to his long strides as he heads towards the exit of this DSO building, already beelining for the bar. “What?” His voice is sharp and barely restrained as he slightly turns his head only to catch a glimpse of you and your meek face trying to ask him something. “Oh, it's just you, escort. What do you want now?” He raises an accusing brow at you as if you had just interrupted something so very important with something that seemed to have the significance of the size of an ant.

“Well, I need you to fill in these documents—“ You begin before he cuts you off, rolling his eyes at your words. “So? Just put it on my desk. Can’t you escorts do anything right?” That only makes you grit your teeth in anger— how dare he insult you because of his grouchy behaviour? “Mr. Kennedy, you told me that last week, and you still haven't done it!”

“Exactly, I told you to do that. So just do it.” With that, he reaches the double doors that lead to exit the building, pushing past into the evening air and leaving you dejected in the lobby.

You couldn’t just let that go, obviously not, so you’d return to his desk every day and slap down another high stack of paperwork onto his desk. If that's what he wanted, so be it—he can deal with it when he practically can't see over his desk. You have a smirk on your face as you contemplate that, imagining him huffing as he goes through the stacks.

However, you’re only met with horror as you realise he’s not even at his desk, already heading down the corridor with a bottle of beer in his hand again. What the hell? You want to scream right now because there is no way you could have landed a job this badly. Yeah, you’re a bit of a hard worker, but this is the DSO—you have to be one. This occurs more and more frequently, watching as he just saunters down to the bar again or maybe to the balcony for a smoke; either way, he doesn't intend to look at a single word of the work set out for him.

It gets to the point where you have Chris coming for you too, asking where the hell the mission reports are, but all you can do is show him the place where Leon’s desk is, the reports overflowing. The agent begins to dislike you after that, scolding you for “snitching” him to Chris and then stating he’s had enough of your persistence. So, instead, he tries to annoy you and slaps twenty dollars in your hands. “Go buy me a bottle of beer, and then i want you to go to that diner down the road, order the special, but specify that I want no mayo in the burger and a seedless bun”

So of course, you trudge yourself down the road to the diner, pickup the food all while cursing him out before returning only to be met with another twenty dollars and another order. This repeats again, and again, and he seems to seethe each time you give him that same unfazed look upon your face.

In the past four weeks of this job, somehow you had dropped from earth to hell and then lower. It was like he was actively trying to kick you out of this place, and if you didn't have the paycheck and a dream right now, you’d go in a heartbeat.

You didn’t realise the severity of the situation until you’re panicking on a Monday morning, trying to find him because you both have to be at a meeting in ten minutes and he still hasn't clocked in for his shift. You’ve practically begged every security employee to tell you if they see him, knowing that Chris might just have your head if you don't get there in time. It’s even worse that the meeting is twenty minutes away from the DSO building you’re always at—this is a guaranteed failure. The phone goes to voicemail again, so you reluctantly decide to just attend the meeting anyway. You usually weren't allowed to sit inside with him, but the least you could do was give them an apology to save the DSO some face. Even if they wouldn't take ‘I have no idea where he is’ as an excuse.

You stop outside the building, cheeks flushed from the cold since the traffic was so bad outside you had to jog over to the building. Taking the lift up to the meeting room, the other attendees give you a dirty look, assuming you were some stupid intern in the wrong place. Their looks almost made you cower, but you know you aren't doing anything wrong. “Excuse me, sir.”

You stand awkwardly in front of the meeting’s host, your body awfully rigid from your next words. “Yes?” He looks at you with disdain, not expecting to be spoken to by some kid.

“The agent I'm escorting here, Mister Kennedy, will be a little bit late or may as well not turn up at all. I.. uh, hope you understand?” You attempt to explain, not really sure how to word this.

What you didn't expect was for the man to grow furious, slamming his hand against the wooden table, which immediately made the entire room stop their menial chatter to stare. “What do you mean he’s not coming? He’s our top agent.” He barks out, and you have no idea what to say, backing up from him as you fumble.

“I’m sure he’ll be here soon, but—“

“You’re only sure? What kind of escort are you?”

The red that coats your cheeks is humiliating, deepening with each second the silence continues on for. You grit your teeth, muttering out apologies as fast as you can before he eventually dismisses you, and you’re halfway down the stairs before you know it. The back of your hand wipes your face, small tears forming in your eyes at all the gazes fixed on you.

If that hadn't taken the cake, you didn't know what did. To think that he was getting away with all of this was a severe understatement; he was slowly deteriorating his own life from his habits. He’d been kicked off missions permanently now, and then work for him started slowly dwindling. It sounded good—less work right? Wrong. He was practically a week away from being fired altogether, which also kissed your job bye bye. The interns had already begun to snicker about it, even going as far as to ask you questions about him as well. As much as you hated his guts for his behaviour, you hated the sneers on their faces even more. It was the third time you’ve given them a dirty look now, even going as far as silencing one with a sharp glare. You couldn't help but scoff, a mere intern trying to mock an experienced agent? Who the hell did they think they were?

However, after another week passes with little to no improvement, you couldn't deny that the longer this continued, they wouldn't even have someone to mock anymore. The issue was, what the hell could you even do? Chris had fully given up on him at this point, as had most of the operatives here, and as much as you hated it, it seemed like you were his last hope.

————————————————————————

Next Series Masterlist

[scararingg]

sahsr thoughts >-< (some nfsw)

(NFSW AHEAD)

I adore the thought of sahsr more than sagau tbh—

The fact that there IS a higher chance they would be self aware, cuz.. they are more advanced, with phones and that stuff..

They might even hear you while you play >-< every second is a moment spent good if you were playing, and if you left they would be sad as hell..

like why you leaving don’t leave them

but they get used to it and just hope and wait for when you come back

except you don’t..

and you start playing a game called Genshin, which is familiar.. wait… isn’t that the game that is basically similar to theirs?!

who the fuck is wriothesley and why do you want them to handcuff you and fuck you until you can barely walk?!

Are most of them jealous? Of course they are.. stop bringing your attention to them..

They can hear you while you play that game and it annoys them so much..

especially trailblazer. They can probs hear you and not being able to hear them makes them feel more anxious..

and when they hear you talk.. even if it isn’t directed at them it makes them feel kinda.. well.. needy for you..

but mostly because they want you.. they can barely talk without you.

cuz it feels like they can’t decide without you..

Trailblazer decides to probs go to herta or someone who is rlly smart so they can do something and try to bring you to their world.

Because.. you aren’t coming.. and the next banner is in 19 days and it’s the 1st patch.. they can’t wait longer..

Obviously whoever agrees says yes with the goal of maybe taking you to themselves..

The stellaron hunters might get a mission to bring you to their world and they try hard. After all they want it too.

they want you to come so bad.

all of them.

silver wolf tries her best to hack and find out everything, and what she has found out is

~ Your location in the other world

~ Your search history

~ your phone number

and a lot more.

Elio is desperate to have you, and the stellaron hunters are aware of it. They want to help Emil and also have you, so they will do anything in their power to help you.

it’s not as if the stellaron hunters are the only organisation that wants you.. the astral express wants u to!

with Dan heng learning info and putting most of it in his data bank…

trailblazer writing everything you say and stuff they hear abt you in a few notebooks that are starting to pile up..

march accidentally drawing you in alot of stuff.. and maybe trying to take a pic of you. she can see you through the screen after all..

himeko learning as much abt you as possible because she knows you will come… and when you come she’ll try her best to make you happy.

and welt being concerned because he knows an alternate universe- and he wants to protect you.. he helps dan heng and knows (eerily) quite alot abt you..

[daylighteclipsed]

@generatedreflection Hope you don’t mind if I respond to your tags this way, since my og post is already kind of long! So running on the assumption that KH is a video game, or at least fiction/a story, in-universe and the characters are waking up and changing when they’re not “supposed” to…

I guess it depends on when the initial divergence from fate/the narrative/the program happened and how much it affected. Was Riku supposed to be our player character? If so, did Sora and Riku only swap physical places/external roles, or did their writing or programming adjust their personalities to fit their new places in the story/game so as to keep the narrative from diverging too much? Is this the first run through the story, or have there been multiple past loops we’re not privy to and that the characters don’t consciously remember but which still affect their hearts?

I’m thinking of ReCoded specifically, when Data Sora and Data Riku go on this whole adventure that’s similar to KH1 but different enough to shape them into their own people. Even after they’re reset to follow what’s written in the Journal, we know those memories remain in their hearts and in the hearts of their newfound Disney friends from the ‘real’ world, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy. So data KH1 will never truly reflect KH1 as we know it.

If ReCoded is spelling the big picture out for us, do Sora and Riku only start awakening during the one run of KH1 that we play… or have they been waking up because of one or more resets before that we haven’t seen? Is fate, destiny, the narrative, the program trying really hard to make this story play out the way it’s “supposed” to, but the boys keep swerving, developing more awareness and free will with every reset? Or is this the first run where things are different because of something the Master of Masters most likely set in motion? Or maybe what he set in motion has taken all these resets to come to fruition?

It’s a lot to think about. And I don’t have any answers. Certainly it’s interesting to consider all the different ways the story could go/is maybe “supposed” to go… If Sora and Riku’s roles are supposed to be flipped, with Riku as the champion of light and Sora as the one who falls to darkness… then it’s kind of ironic that they seem to be circling back to that now. Like rather than completely changing or swapping destinies, they just took a detour. They took the long way around, but the road still leads to the same place. Fate is fighting to correct course.

But I also think, you know, Sora could’ve always been meant to be the Hero and embody that archetype even if the Keyblade was not “supposed” to be his. I don’t think the one who wields Kingdom Key Light is synonymous necessarily with the Hero of the story or even the main protagonist. It’s also possible for Riku to pass on the Keyblade to Sora without falling to darkness.

Either way, the idea of Riku giving his crown/destiny to Sora, rewriting the story and essentially acting as the narrative for Sora in this sense, usurping fate, is interesting. Especially when you compare this to Data Riku’s role in ReCoded. He’s the vessel for the Journals, for the entire digital universe they create, and he protects it. He protects Sora’s story, the one we see in the games, which plays out how it does because Riku gives Sora the Keyblade.

The one thing I feel for sure — a lot of this, the story changing and characters waking up/coming alive, comes back to Riku. From what we see of him as a little kid, Riku’s always been more “awake,” it seems, than his peers. Always questioning things and possessing a wisdom beyond his years. It’s like he almost knows (or remembers) things he shouldn’t. As Sora puts it, Riku says “some weird stuff sometimes.” And I think Riku is the one who starts waking Sora up. He encourages Sora to think about things that it doesn’t seem Sora would think about on his own. To ask questions. To see their world differently. And to consider worlds beyond their own.

I think he’s why Sora’s first line in the series is about awakening. “I’ve been having these weird thoughts lately. Like — Is any of this for real or not?” And I think Riku’s why Sora’s able to connect with and awaken/bring to life so many characters in the story. That might even be canon, actually, if Riku encouraging Sora to open his heart to Ventus when they’re little kids is what teaches Sora how to... By empowering Sora, Riku is the catalyst for a ripple effect of change that defies destiny and universal law. And it culminates in his KH3 sacrifice which allows Sora to rewrite how the Book of Prophecies ends.

I think that’s what Riku has always represented: Awakening. Truth. The outside world — whether that means adulthood, reality, new perspectives, or lands yet untraveled. He makes the darkness conscious by bringing it to light. Especially for Sora. Riku quite literally wakes Sora up after CoM and in DDD, and his light pulls forgotten/repressed memories up from the depths. Riku’s often associated with the sun — the kind of bright, harsh light that hurts to look at. That makes it hard, if not impossible, to fall back asleep.

Riku’s the sudden light in your eyes that has you groaning and rolling away when someone has to get you out of bed in the morning lol He’s the rude awakening. The truth is often not pleasant or easy. It often hurts. But inevitably, it becomes known. Inevitably, the sun rises and illuminates the dark. Dawn breaks, and the day and all its challenges must be faced. No slacking off. Chop, chop. It’s time to wake up, Sora. Destati!

Even Data Riku in ReCoded is the one who lifts the curtain for Data Sora and ‘reveals the matrix’ so to speak. “It’s time for you to learn the truth.” Riku offers the truth, perhaps quite literally sometimes if that’s what his iconic outstretched hand gesture represents — and it definitely seems to given how KH3’s tutorial/awakening parallels Sora’s dream in the KH1 opening. But it’s up to Sora to accept the truth. To face it. To take Riku’s hand and awaken. It’s Sora’s choice.

Anyway. Whether Riku is “supposed” to be the Hero or was always meant to be the Rival, he’s not supposed to love Sora as much as he does, and certainly not in the romantic way the games suggest he does… I understand your hesitation about gay intent in KH… But it really feels like the “missing”/unspoken piece here that makes so many people scratch their heads over Riku’s character arc. For Sora, it’s less clear (especially in English), but I do think Riku is in love with him. And I truly believe so much of “destiny” changing and characters awakening, Sora awakening, comes back to that.

Destiny in this case would be the typical formula of Disney fairy tales and the expectations of our heteronormative society. And awakening would be developing awareness of these limitations and smashing them… Perhaps reflected through Riku and Sora exposing the flaws in the Light and Dark binary that’s dictated Keyblade society and caused many of the problems their generation has to contend with.

Perhaps the door to the light, to truth, to awakening IS the closet door, then (insert joke here about Riku literally being the gay awakening)… But it’s a lot of other things as well. Awakening is discovering any truth. Every truth. It’s knowledge of the systems that limit and control you, of any unseen force that holds you back. It’s power to see through illusions and lies, distortions and distractions. It’s free will and independent thought. It’s self-actualization and true freedom. After all, you cannot break free of chains you don’t know are there.

That certainly makes the Master of Masters an interesting fellow… It seems like he wants change. He wants the characters to deviate from the script, to awaken, to develop free will… But at the same time, he’s pulling all the strings. He’s the eye always watching them... Does he truly want freedom, or does he want to be the one who decides what freedom looks like?

[lightwise]

TBB S3 E4 Recap and Reaction

- Poor Crosshair keeps getting stuck on cold planets.

- Batcher banging on the chair ready to get out 🤣🤣

- These shuttles are really interesting to me. It’s rare to see a ship that size that can be piloted by two different people.

- Baby girl, I totally understand your logic in wanting to pull the data logs to see where Tantiss actually is, but given how tactful we know Hemlock has been so far in keeping his location hidden, most likely it wouldn’t pull up anything.

- What a dreary spaceport. Feels very Andor and very like Norwegian Star Wars.

- The level of snark that Omega is giving back to Crosshair is cracking me up. We don’t see her showing this level of talking back or being sarcastic with any of the other Batchers, which proves my theory that Crosshair’s constant level of highly annoyed at everything around him brings out the sarcasm in everyone else he encounters.

- Love that his knowledge as a former imperial is coming to play to help them.

- Also love that Omega was the one to recognize that they need different clothes (and the obvious pan of the camera on the clothes hanging on the line in the first shot of the spaceport to accentuate that fact).

- Quilted clothes in Star Wars is my fave (yes more Andor parallels).

- The uplilt and little scoff that Omega gives and the look she gives Batcher after Crosshair snarls about bringing “the hound” along is PRECIOUS

- Also Cross and Omega cross their arms the same way. Okay okay I’ll never be over their dynamic here.

- Crosshair’s trucker hat/scuba apparatus is hilarious. He doesn’t look too bad though. Surely he’s at least warmer now.

- The credits negotiation omg. I love how Cross is just waiting for this to play out before he makes a move.

- YES omg are my baby girls strategy skills FINALLY coming back into play??

- Oh no no no no no this kid is going to rat them out isn’t he. You guys need to be more mindful of your surroundings!! Ahhh (okay I’m glad this didn’t happen).

- Honestly at this point Crosshair would be me as well. Just lots of very annoyed sighing.

- I love that Crosshair is getting to see all the things about Omega that the other boys know already, but he hasn’t had a chance to witness yet. We know she can wipe the floor with most people on strategy games/gambling.

- Yep nope this captain is not good news. Don’t get distracted by ranting about Imperial bribery, don’t do it, don’t….*sigh* I hate the Empire so much.

- Oh no this is so bad! I swear WHY is every imperial such a slimy self aggrandizing POS.

- Aww Crossy hunched down at almost table level ready to tear the room apart if anyone touches his baby sister. Adorable murder kitten. 😸

- Also Crosshair when all of this is over: where the HELL did you learn to gamble like that!?! Omega: 🤷🏻‍♀️😇😁

- Also also what game are they playing? Those cards are beautiful.

- Oh no they’ve found the shuttle already. Dear god this episode is so stressful!!

- CROSS!DAD IS OFFICIALLY CANON lmao

- Okay I was hoping Omega would let him win bc this isn’t going to go over well

- Whoa I didn’t actually expect him to concede. Maybe he’s not quite as slimy as I thought. Doesn’t matter though, the shuttle will give them away regardless.

- Of course. There it is. Let all the seedy businesses thrive as long as you get your fine out of it. Ugh. This is paralleling a lot of imperial activities in Rebel Rising and the Ahsoka novel as well.

- I also love how Omega uses touch with Crosshair to calm him down and communicate with him.

- Whoa I did not expect Omega to throw the credits and basically give Crosshair the choice of abandoning her or not. Nor for him to actually have to think about it for a moment.

- “My skills are being wasted” the boy does not like feeling helpless. I understand.

- This is going to give Cross some understanding of what Hunter has been going through the last few years. Especially if he ends up losing her.

- “Don’t push it” and the extra head shake after lmao.

- Geez this man is just lining his pockets every which way isn’t he. Despicable.

- “Alright, let’s try things your way” “Finally” I LOVE THEM SO MUCH

- Animal stampede!

- Oh gosh is Cross going to get left behind??

- Aw he finally called her Batcher.

- We are clearly seeing how much Omega has actually been tempered by the rest of the Batchers being around her until now. The unfiltered combined powers of Omega and Crosshair at their most unhinged is maybe more than the galaxy is ready for 🤣🤣

- Also a very Andor reference with the captain being stampeded almost to death and having his gun kicked away from him in the melee

- NO WAY WE FINALLY GET AN IMPERIAL GETTING THEIR DUE BY CREATURE DEATH once again *cough cough* not a kids show

- Awwww Batcher licking Crosshair’s face. He’s so done for.

- They got away. Wow. I actually wasn’t expecting that. And with most of the money too.

- Okay. Smart girl. She did not pick Pabu.

- What an ending. Wow. So. Similar to Mando season 3 (which is also scaring me) — what the heck is the rest of this season going to be about?

- This reunion is everything. 🥹🥹🥹 the hugs. The running. The tears. The worry. The anger. The hesitation. The fear. The literal and metaphorical distance between their ships that someone will have to cross. They better not fast forward a millisecond when the next episode picks up I swear.

[northernsuccubus]

Different anon but pleaseeee keep rambling.

Okay well there’s a lot of different stimuli that could be tested as well. Does the subject cum faster or more intensey if they’re in pain? What kind of pain? How severe? What part of their body? What about other sensations? Ice? Gentle touches? There’s a lot of information to gather. And I probably want to do several trials of each just to be sure. Plus I want to make sure that you have a good baseline to compare to, otherwise these numbers don’t mean anything. That alone can take a week or two of bringing out the same subject, examining them, and just making them cum normally so that you have a reliable set of data.

Once I get through all of that though I can move into other things that I’m curious about.

Have different lab assistants do their morning exam for a week.

Edge and deny the subject twice daily for two weeks and see if that impacts behavior or cognitive function. Force them to cum five times in a row a few times and see if that does anything.

Play mind games. Might as well, we’re not exactly sticking to the strictest ethical standards here.

Give them some experimental drug and see what it does.

Just play with experiment on them all day every day for weeks and months until they don’t know what it’s like to be anything but my lab rat.

[just-a-carrot]

another detail I think about is pre-reset Orlam having kids’ toys like teddy bears and train sets in his castle in Wonderland. The fact that he’s still very much trying to make up for his lack of a childhood and taking full advantage of the power he has now to give him things that he never had before, even if something as small and minuscule as children’s toys………..that DETAIL alone shows to me that Orlam was trying SO HARD to make up for what he lost and enjoy what he could not enjoy before as King Orlam, Ruler of Wonderland because he could not have these things as Orlam Brewbacher, 30-year-old Data Analyst from bumfuck nowhere Midwest, USA.

and tell me why that MINOR DETAIL got me SO EMOTIONAL when I first played it. Carrot holy shit do you realize how /human/ your characters feel? Whether you mean it or not, your characters are extremely multi-dimensional, even ones we don’t see often like Jerry and Cecil (not to the same extent as the other characters, but they certainly do not come off as Flat, Stagnant Characters) and I LOVE that everyone in this game is literally just The Worst People Ever. They have selfish desires, dreams, and FLAWS. SO MANY FLAWS. Do you know how REFRESHING it was to have MIXED OPINIONS on NEARLY ALL OF THE CHARACTERS (except Orlam I was his #1 defender but that’s bc I relate to him a ton and relate to his situation and trauma a LOT guys it’s okay the cannibalism was just a minor setback he’s really cool you guys and 100% did nothing wrong-)

I just. AUGH. AAAAAAAAAAUGH ‼️‼️‼️ I love while during the course of playing this game the first time I had Ever-Shifting Opinions Of These Characters And The Opinions I Had About Them At The Beginning Of The Game Molded Throughout Me Playing And We’re Completely Different By The End, Because Although Some Of Their Motivations For Doing The Terrible Things They Did Were Infuriating They Felt Real. Those Are Real Human Motivations. Those Are Real Human Issues. Those Are Real Human Emotions. Those Are Real Complicated, Messy, Ugly Human Emotions.

and I LOVE IT ‼️‼️‼️

you're gonna make me cry???? 😭💦

ahhhhh....

reading this made me a bit emotional, i'm really touched...

i really did want people's opinions of the chars to go up and down and all over the place over the course of the game, because that's what happens in real life, with real people. people do things, say things, make decisions you don't understand, because we're all human and we all have our own wants, needs, struggles, challenges, moments of sheer panic, mistakes, you name it. sometimes we struggle just to get through the day or carry a conversation. sometimes we literally go off the deep end. sometimes we say things we don't mean or regret. other times we say things we wanted to but shouldn't have. and i guess i wanted to show a part of this with the game and the chars. that we're all imperfect and human. but that doesn't mean we don't deserve love and understanding. (but sometimes we need to talk things out and fess up too lkfjadf)

anyway... yeah. thank you for this, reading it really meant a lot 💕