#like. i’ve been TERRIBLE at hiding it but we haven’t talked about it since i was 15

[punkaraoke]

i neeeeeed to actually come out to my parents. help

[evanpeterswhoresblog]

Old Friends

Max Cooperman x f!reader

warnings: smut, unprotected p in v, oral female receiving, soft!dom max, sub!reader, underage drinking, underage smoking, getting high before sex, rough sex, uhhh overall very long and very smutty

summary: after being away at college for a year, your best friend Baja convinces you to go to a fourth of July party at your old friend Max’s house, but little do you know how much Max has changed since the last time you saw him…

word count: 4.5k

a/n: i just watched never back down 1 and 2 last night and omg the glow up evan had before filming the second one is not talked about enough. hope you enjoy my lil fourth of july gift <3 enjoy!!

~~~

“Do you think this looks good?” You ask as you walk out of the bathroom.

You’re at your best friend Baja’s house, the two of you are getting ready for a big fourth of July party. So far, you’ve tried on three different bikinis, none of them standing out to you. Sure, they fit you perfectly and show off the body you worked for, but they just weren’t right.

“Y/N, it looks amazing, like all the other ones too. What’s going on?” Baja answers, a frown on her face.

You met Baja when she transferred into your high school sophomore year, and you’ve been inseparable since. You were by her side through everything. The day her parents decided to call it quits, the day her parents got back together, even the day she started dating Ryan. You never liked him, she knew that. He was crazy, he loved to hurt people. So, when Jake Tyler moved to town and started talking to her, you were thrilled.

He was a decent guy, you enjoyed spending time with him. Plus, it was great seeing her happy again after what Ryan put her through. After they started dating Jake introduced you to his best friend Max and he often hung around with the three of you. Max was a sweet boy. He was chubby and adorable with his little camera. Though the two of you never hung out alone, you still considered him one of your closer friends.

The four of you were sad when high school ended. You had gotten into your dream college that happened to be in a nearby state. It was terrible having to say goodbye to your friends, but you all had phones so it wasn’t like contact would be completely lost. You and Baja would call for hours, sometimes falling asleep on the phone together. On holiday breaks when you’d come home you really only saw her and occasionally Jake, but you didn’t mind.

Tonight, however, is the first party you’re going to in your home town since high school. Since it’s your first summer break from college, Baja thinks it will be a good idea. You know she’s right, but you’re very nervous to see all your old classmates.

“What if people think I’ve gone downhill since we graduated?” You question your friend.

Baja laughs. “I can promise you no one will think that. Look at yourself y/n, you’re stunning.”

“I’m just worried it’ll go bad. I haven’t seen these people in over a year,” you reply with a sigh. You sit down next to her on her bed. “How many people do you think will be there?”

“Well like I said it’s at Max’s house, and his house is pretty big so probably a lot of people.”

“God, I haven’t even seen Max since last summer. How’s he doing?” You ask.

“Well, he’s changed a lot,” she answers with a small laugh. “Trust me when you see him, you’re going to be shocked.”

“What do you mean? Did he finally get taller or something?”

“Yeah, you could say that... But anyways, hurry up and finish picking your outfit we have to leave soon,” she replies, shooing you off the bed and towards her closet.

~~~

When the two of you arrive at Max’s house you feel the anxious butterflies eat away in your stomach. There’s already so many cars in the driveway and on the street. You see a few of your former classmates in the front yard, you hide your face. Baja laughs and finally parks the car. You look at her anxiously.

“Maybe this was a bad idea, how about we just go stay at your place instead?” You speak.

She shakes her head. “Nope, we’re already here. Just relax y/n, it’s going to be super fun.”

“You’re just saying that because you want to go fuck your boyfriend,” you reply with a frown.

“Hey, maybe you’ll find a guy and hook up too,” she says, a smirk on her face. “I bet tons of guys are gonna be all over you looking for a piece of that ass.”

You lightly slap her and groan. “Shut up.”

She only laughs and opens her door. “Come on, we’re already late.”

You groan and open yours too, preparing yourself for what’s coming. You follow Baja into the party, smiling at your old classmates. You recognize most of them, but there’s also new people you don’t think even went to school with you. Loud music flows throughout the house, you can practically feel the beat as you walk. Baja was right, in the few minutes you’ve been inside you’ve already noticed multiple guys checking you out. It makes you wish you worse something more than just jean shorts and a coverup over your bathing suit.

The two of you stop in the kitchen and Baja pours you a shot. You take it without saying anything, it’ll help you with your nerves. The familiar warmth fills your stomach and chest, it feels good. You see Jake approching and you smile, it’s been a few months since the last time you talked. He looks the exact same.

“What’s up y/n? How you been?” He asks after greeting Baja with a kiss.

“Pretty good, how about you?” You reply.

“Amazing.”

“That’s cool, Baja said you were thinking about opening up your own gym soon, that’s great,” you mention, looking back at your best friend.

“I see word travels fast between the two of you,” he says, wrapping his arm around Baja’s shoulders. “But yeah, it’s just an idea right now. It was more Max’s idea actually, have you talked to him yet?”

You shake your head and notice the look Baja and Jake give each other. “I told her she’s gonna be surprised when she sees him.”

“Oh yeah, you should actually go find him and say hi,” Jake says with a smirk.

You look between them suspiciously. “Is this your subtle attempt to get me away so you can go fuck?”

“Yes, entirely, so go,” Baja answers with a laugh, pushing you lightly.

“I hate you,” you say as you begin to walk away from them.

“Love you too!” She exclaims, you don’t bother replying.

You wander through the house searching for Max. You forgot how big his house really was. Even the first floor will probably take you twenty minutes to search. A sigh leaves your lips, where would he be? You look through his living room, cringing at the sight of two girls making out on the couch, a swarm of guys watching and recording. He’s not there, thankfully. You go out to the back yard, so many people are in the pool. But that’s when you spot him.

Baja was right, you’re very surprised. He’s not at all like you remember him. The chubby nerd you once knew is gone and has been replaced by... this. He’s definitely grown a few inches, and his baby fat has been replaced by muscle. The boy who used to refuse taking off his shirt even at the beach is now standing tall, abs out for everyone to see. His hair is shorter and slightly curlier. You can see his sharp jawline from where you’re standing, it’s so prominent. You trail your eyes down his body, lingering on his v-line. You never thought in a million years you’d see Max Cooperman with a v-line and happy trail. You also never thought you’d stare at it so intently.

You shake the thoughts away and walk towards him. He’s still the same Max you knew, you can’t be thinking like this. You’re only a few feet away when he notices you, you can see his eyes light up. It makes you smile.

“Am I dreaming or is it really you y/n?” He asks.

“I could say the same thing about you,” you reply with a laugh as you embrace him in a short hug. “What did college do to you?”

“A lot honestly. I started working out a lot more, lost my fat and replaced it with these guns,” he answers, flexing his biceps.

You laugh again. “At least it hasn’t changed your personality, you still staying behind the scenes?”

“Yeah, I’m always going to be the camera man. How about you though? I bet you’re the most talked about girl on your campus,” he says with a smirk. “I mean seriously wow you look great.”

You can’t help the small blush that appears on your cheeks. “I wouldn’t know, I sorta keep to myself. I mean I go to parties sometimes but most of my time is spent keeping up with my classes.”

“I’m glad college hasn’t changed your personality either. Still the quiet girl during the week days and the party animal on weekends?”

“God no. I was way worse back then. I haven’t gotten shit faced since that party at Baja’s a year or two ago,” you answer.

“I remember that, you threw up all over the backseats of my car,” he laughs.

You cover your face in embarrassment. “Don’t remind me.”

“And remember how I had to carry you in? You were telling me how sad you were to still be a virgin, you asked if Jean from my old gym could do you,” he continues, his laughter only getting louder.

“Stop it,” you say. Your face is so hot, you probably look like a tomato.

Max is about to continue, but a girl comes up to him and laches on to his arm. You don’t know why it makes that unsettling feeling start in your stomach again. You aren’t jealous, he’s like your brother for God’s sake. At least, that’s what you keep having to tell yourself. She gives you a side glance, as if she’s trying to make you feel bad for talking to Max. It almost makes you laugh. She looks familiar, but you can’t put a name to her face.

“You said you’d come swim with me,” she says to him. “Come on.”

Max raises his eyebrows at you before looking back at the girl. “Sorry, just catching up with an old friend. You remember y/n right? We used to go to school together.”

She looks at you again and gasps. “Little y/n? I couldn’t even recognize you, you’ve certainly... changed.”

“Thanks,” you reply. You don’t want to stand here any longer. “I’ll let you guys get back to your swimming, it was nice talking to you Max.”

You give them a smile and turn around, you’re going to try to find Baja and Jake again, hopefully they’re done fucking by now. But before you can even take a step Max grabs your wrist, preventing you from leaving. You look back at him over your shoulder, the girl next to him looks pissed, he doesn’t seem to care though because his eyes are locked on you.

“How about after this we go hot box my car? You know, like we used to?’ He suggests.

“I’d love to,” you say. The girl looks furious, it makes you happy. “See you in a bit.”

He grins and let's go of your wrist, finally giving his attention back to the girl on his arm. You walk back towards his house, your hearts racing. Since when did Max Cooperman make your heart race? You look over your shoulder again when you’re at his back doors and much to your surprise he’s already looking at you. You quickly look away, what’s going on?

~~~

Max finds you after about a half hour and the two of you make your way into his garage, weed in hand. Thankfully, no one’s in the garage. Even though it’s not your weed, you’d hate to have to share with a bunch of other people. He unlocks his car and opens the passenger side for you, you chuckle and push him away but get inside anyway. He quickly gets in the driver's side and starts to unpack all his stuff.

You watch as he packs the bowl effortlessly. He used to struggle with it to the point that he’d ask you or Jake to do it for him. Now though, he gets it done within minutes. He offers you the first hit and you gladly accept, taking the bowl and lighter in your hands instantly. You light it and take a big hit, passing the bowl to Max while it’s still lit. Your lungs burn a bit, but you don’t mind. You blow the smoke out in one long breath, filling up the car with the stench of weed.

“That’s some good shit,” you say as Max takes his hit.

He nods and hands the bowl back to you when he’s done. “Stole it from my dad, he’s gets it from some high end dealer.”

“No shit?” You say before taking your second hit.

“Yeah, it’s great.”

You blow out the smoke for a second time and hand the bowl back to him. “I already feel it, God damn.”

“It’s pretty strong, you should wait before taking another hit. Unless it’s a small one. I’d hate for you to throw up in my car again,” he replies. You scoff and push his shoulder, making him break out into laughter. You can’t help but join in.

You feel fantastic. Perfect even. You let your head fall back against the headrest, your whole body feeling lighter. You close your eyes, a big smile on your lips. Max starts to talk again, but you don’t bother listening. You're too caught up in this amazing feeling. He taps your shoulder after a few seconds though and you sigh, tingles shooting throughout your whole body at the simple contact.

“Y/N are you listening?” He asks.

You roll your head to the side so you’re looking at him. “Touch me again, it feels so good.”

“What?”

“My body... it feels like it needs to be touched. Did you give me like Viagra weed?” You question.

“I don’t know does sativa usually make you horny?” He laughs.

You shrug. “Maybe. I haven’t smoked in a minute. Can you put on the radio or something?”

He nods and puts his keys in the ignition, turning them so the radio starts to play. You sit up and start to flick through the channels before settling on a relaxing song. You sigh and lean back, your head facing Max again. You watch as he takes another hit, he looks sexy doing it. You shake your head at the thought, Max is one of your best friends you can’t call him sexy, even if it’s in your own head.

When he’s done, he puts the bowl down and leans back. He turns his head to you and your eyes meet. Your heart rate increases. He has this look in his eyes, one you never thought you’d see from him. His eyes are so dark, so full of lust. You swallow but can’t bear to break the eye contact.

“Who was that girl?” You ask, breaking the silence but not the tension. “She your girlfriend or something?”

“No, I’m surprised you didn’t recognize her. That was Jenifer, you know, the one who used to make fun of me,” he answers.

“So, why was she hanging on to you like that?”

He smirks. “What are you jealous?”

“That doesn’t answer my question,” you reply, deflecting his question.

“And that doesn’t answer mine.”

You look away for a split second and shrug. “Should I be?”

“I’d like you to be. But she’s nothing, just one of the many girls from this town who’ve suddenly become interested in me after I decided to change up my looks,” he answers.

You feel ashamed. Are you one of those girls now? You can admit, if Max still looked how he did before you don’t know if you’d be having these feelings for him. Part of you believes you would though, just because of how flirty he is, he’s been like that since the two of you met all those years ago. You look down at your lap, not knowing what else to do.

“Did I say something wrong?” He asks after a few seconds.

You shake your head. “No, of course not. I just... I don’t want you to think I’m one of those girls too. I mean am I really attracted to you now? Yes. But I’ve always been attracted to your personality too. I’m sorry, you just are so fucking hot now it’s hard but-”

You’re cut off by Max’s lips crashing on to yours. You forget about what you were saying and kiss him back instantly, your hands moving up to grip his soft curls. The kiss is rough and full of pent-up sexual tension. You part your lips and let his tongue roam your mouth, it makes your body ignite. One of his hands moves down your body, eventually resting on your hip. The other one cups your cheek, his thumb caressing your skin gently.

He pulls back after a minute and the two of you stare into each other's eyes once again. Your breathing is heavy, your cheeks are flushed, and your lips are swollen. You haven’t been kissed like that in a long time.

“Sorry, I should’ve asked first, but I just needed to show you that you aren’t anything like those other girls. I’ve always wanted you y/n, I just never thought I had a chance,” he explains softly.

You twirl one of his curls around one of your pointer fingers and chuckle. “Oh Max, if you asked me out I most likely would’ve said yes.”

“I didn’t want to ruin the friendship, but at this point since we don’t even talk that much I don’t care. I want you y/n, so bad. Even if it’s just for tonight, even if we never talk again after, let me have you right now,” he whispers.

“I’m yours for the taking,” you reply and before you have a second to think he crashes his lips to yours again.

The kiss is even rougher this time. His hands roam your body freely, cupping your breasts, your ass, everything. You let him pull you over the center console and into his lap, though the two of you laugh at the slight struggle. It’s a tight squeeze, but it works. You straddle him as the kiss continues, his hips grinding up into yours. You slightly moan at the feeling of his bulge brushing against your clothed clit. Your arms wrap around his neck and you hold him tight, the feeling of your bodies against each other sending tingles throughout your entire body.

You break the kiss after a couple minutes to remove your coverup, your bikini now the only thing covering your breasts. Max smirks and lifts his hands up to the back of your neck, pulling the string that’s holding up your bikini until it comes undone. He does the same with the other string and throws your bikini on to the passenger seat. He doesn’t try to hide his stare; it makes your face heat up again.

Before you can say anything, he leans forward and takes one of your nipples in his mouth. You sigh from the pleasure it gives you. Your body falls back against the steering wheel, luckily not hitting the horn. You feel his tongue swirl around your nipple, it makes you throw your head back. He moves between both of your nipples for a few minutes before moving on to kiss and suck the rest of your breasts.

“Can we move to the back?” He asks suddenly, his lips still on your skin.

“Yeah,” you answer breathlessly before climbing off him and between the two front seats to get to the back.

He’s too big to climb through, so he gets out of the car and goes through one of the back doors instead. He lays you down on the seats and continues his kisses on your breasts. He trails his kisses down your stomach, your navel, until he’s at the point where your skin ends and your jean shorts start. Your eyes meet his and he gives you a smirk that sends warmth to the pit of your stomach. He unbuttons your shorts and you lift your hips to help him pull them down your body, leaving you only in your bikini bottoms.

He presses soft kisses to your inner thighs, making the wet spot in your bottoms even more noticeable. You move up so half your back is pressed against the car door, mostly to give Max more room, but also because you want to watch him. He sucks on the skin of your thighs, leaving behind a few hickeys as proof. His hands wrap around your thighs as well and he pulls them up so that your legs are bent and his head is now stuck between them.

His hands then move to the two strings on your hips that are holding your bathing suit bottoms in place. He pulls them at the same time until they both come undone, then he takes off your body, leaving you completely naked. His eyes are on yours as he moves his head down and finally connects his mouth to your soaking cunt.

You moan, your head hitting the car door as you throw it back. He licks and sucks your clit perfectly; he’s definitely done this before. When he moves his tongue down to your entrance, teasingly moving it in and out, his nose brushes your clit. Your thighs squeeze around his head, you lift your hips for more pressure. It feels so good, too good. Only five minutes go by and you can feel your orgasm approaching, you pull at his hair.

“Max- you should stop before I- before I cum,” you say, your breath ragged.

“Don’t you want to?” He asks after lifting his head.

“I want this to last longer, I don’t want it to be over yet,” you answer.

He smiles. “Who said it would be over after you cum once?”

Before you can reply he moves his head back down and continues his precious licks. You come undone within three minutes. He doesn’t stop, even as you cum. Your orgasm takes over your whole body, it makes you feel euphoric.

When he’s sure you're finished, he wipes his mouth on your thigh and moves back so he’s sitting on one of the seats. He removes his bathing suit before grabbing your ankles and pulling your body so you’re laid down on the seats. He climbs over you and meets your eyes for the hundredth time tonight.

“Are you on the pill?”

“Yeah.”

“Is it okay if I cum in you or do you still want me to pull out?”

Your stomach does a flip at his words. He’s the first guy to ask that after finding out you’re on the pill. You’ve never adored anyone more than him in this moment.

“You can do it inside,” you reply.

Max nods before pressing his lips to yours. You can taste yourself on his lips, it only makes you more turned on. You wrap your arms around his back, holding him close to you as he starts to rub his dick between your soaked folds. You bite down on your lips as his tip rubs against your clit, it feels incredible. But you want him inside you more. He must know this, because he positions himself at your entrance after a few seconds and starts to slowly move inside you.

He starts off with slow thrusts, helping you adjust to his size. Even with his slow pace you can’t help but bite down on his shoulder, the feeling of him inside you making your toes curl. Once you give him the okay, he starts to move faster, and after minutes he’s fucking you hard. You’re a moaning mess, your nails scratching down his back as he pounds into you harshly. Each thrust makes your eyes practically roll back into your skull, they’re so hard, so deep.

The air inside the car is warm, the windows fogged up. You know if anyone were to walk into the garage, they’d see it shaking. You almost scream when he starts to suck your neck, he finds your sweet spot quickly and settles on it. You touch his now sweaty curls and close your eyes, this is the best sex you’ve ever had, you don’t want it to ever end.

“Baby, I want you to ride me till I cum,” he whispers, his hot breath on your ear. “Can you do that?”

“Yes.”

He moves your position so that he’s sitting and you're straddling him, like you did in the front seat. You don’t waste a second to begin moving up, down, back, and forth on his dick, riding him the way you know guys like it. You watch his head fall back on the seat, your name leaving his lips in a voice that almost makes you cum right then and there. His hands grip your ass tight; you love the way it stings.

You kiss his lips, his jaw, his neck, each sound that leaves him a reward. Your second orgasm is approaching, you feel the tightening in your stomach. You hold back though; you want to feel him finish before you. Thankfully, your silent request comes sooner than you thought.

“Just like that, don’t stop, I’m gonna cum,” he mumbles. His eyes are closed and his head is still resting on the seat, you swear he’s the most beautiful boy you’ve ever seen. “I’m so close- so fucking close.”

“Cum in me baby,” you say, and he does.

The feeling of his dick pulsing inside you is the last thing you can take, you let your orgasm take over too, the both of you cumming at the same time. You’re out of breath but you keep riding him until you’re positive he’s completely done. Once he is, you get off him and fall back on to the seat next to him. You’re sweaty and tired. You open the door next to you and breathe in the fresh air, it’s refreshing.

“Now two of your fluids have been on my backseat, that’s cool right?” Max says to break the silence.

You laugh. “Can you shut the fuck up?”

“Can I not be happy that your vomit and your cum has been where we’re sitting?”

“Please stop before more of my vomit is on your seats.”

“We should go swim, the fireworks are gonna start soon,” he mentions. You look at him and see he’s already redressing. He meets your eyes and pauses. “Unless you want to stay here which is fine too.”

“No, no, I want to go I just need a second, that was a workout,” you reply.

He grins and hands you back your clothing items, pressing a soft kiss to your lips. “Whatever you want y/n.”

~~~

The two of you are in the pool when Baja and Jake finally find you.

“So, you guys are acquainted again?” Baja asks as she lowers herself into the pool.

You and Max share a look before you answer her. “Yeah, you can say that.”

[dearharriet]

"you're really red right now." with george weasley? and congrats on 150! 🥳

thank you sm for the request! <3 (wc: 851)

Swinging under the restricted access rope, you climb the stairs to the twins’ annex two at a time. Behind you, the store is mostly quiet, except for Fred’s loud singing as he feeds the pygmy puffs.

The banister is creaky when you lean on it, so you’re sure George can hear you coming. His door is open, so you let yourself in, announcing yourself with a rap on the stained pine trim.

“Fred says you’re hiding, but I can’t imagine what from,” you say instead of hello. “Certainly not me, I hope?”

George glances away from his books, halfway through a bite of takeaway. His mouth stills its chewing as he blinks owlishly at you. His hair is all askew, likely from tugging at it in concentration, and he has a tiny speck of sauce on his chin. You’d probably find it embarrassing if you didn’t like him so much.

“Sorry, hello,” you amend, realizing you caught him unawares. He remains frozen, though his jaw starts working to rid itself of the food that’s keeping him silent.

“Hi,” he ekes out, “on your break, are you?”

You hum affirmatively, coming around his desk to converse more privately with him.

“Yeah, and I’ve been meaning to talk to you about this idea I have for a product we could release near Christmas,” you ramble, leaning a hip against his desk and crossing your arms. George is staring up at you like you’re a star he’s never seen before. “A red-hot cocoa. We could infuse dragon peppers into the mix—to make it really spicy, yknow?”

George doesn’t look too convinced. If anything, he looks like he hasn’t heard you at all.

“I know it’s sort of similar to flaming fudge, but I thought the effect of making it themselves might add intrigue for customers,” you continue, starting to feel a little bit embarrassed.

Silence stretches just long enough to be uncomfortable, emphasized by an especially loud zzzzzziiiiiip from downstairs.

Biting your lip, you wince. “George?”

He blinks, seeming to come alive again, somewhat.

“Did you do something to your hair?” he asks out of the blue.

You frown. “You didn’t hear what I said, did you?”

To his credit, George looks terribly guilty in the face of your accusation. He takes it in stride, too, despite being every color of wrong.

“Is that what you were telling me about?” he asks.

Sighing, you take his loosened tie and shake it around in teasing frustration. There was a time when doing something as familiar as that would make you feel unprofessional, but you know better now.

“No. I was telling you about my idea for a new product.”

George’s mouth opens and closes silently, searching for words. He looks hot around the collar, from embarrassment or flustering or both. You like to tease him like this, because upon meeting him, he didn’t seem the type to be fazed by flirting at all.

Feeling maniacal, you take the opportunity to wipe away the food still on his chin, letting your touch linger a hair longer than necessary. The color in George’s neck shoots up to his pale cheeks, giving him the hue of a ripe strawberry.

“Merlin, George,” you muster through a grin, “you’re really red right now.”

He ducks his head then, ardently avoiding any inch of you he can. Cursing, he presses the backs of his hands to his cheeks to cool them.

“Sorry.” He steals a glance at you, his brows furrowed in what might be confusion. “Remind me what your idea was?”

You accommodate him, running the idea past him again, with more confidence this time. You don’t mind wasting your break away talking, at least not with George.

“Hot cocoa,” he repeats, rubbing his chin. You weren’t expecting a promotion or anything, but his mild response worries you. “We could workshop it together, yeah?”

“Sure,” you say, nerves winding tight in your chest. “If you’re not too busy.”

“Honestly, I haven’t done any work since an hour ago,” he admits. “Is it busy downstairs?”

You strain to listen past George’s office, down the stairs in the popular shop. It’s easy to make out the fizzing lightning effects and the siren-like sounds that engulf the love potion display, but any real crowd bustle is absent.

“Hardly,” you say.

George pushes up from his chair, making for his door. “Good,” he says, “we can start now.”

He closes the heavy door, and then retrieves a cauldron and hauls it over to his desk. Before he sets it down, though, he holds it up in front of your face.

“In case you were wondering why I thought you did something to your hair,” he explains, “it’s because someone did something to your hair.”

In the warped reflection on the brass cauldron you can see yourself—and your flaming pink hair.

“Merlin, I look like Tonks.”

George laughs at that, dropping the heavy basin onto the rich mahogany table. He doubles back to his shelves again to collect some ingredients.

“Any idea who did it?” he prompts.

You roll your eyes.

“Yeah. He looks a lot like you.”

+

thank you for reading! xx

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[geowrites03]

An ounce of regret

Teen Titans!Dick Grayson x Wilson!Reader

I FINALLY MADE A PART TWO TO SLADE’S DAUGHTER!

Part 2 of Slade’s Daughter

Summary: While looking for her father y/n gets caught by some of her mothers henchmen. Now the Titans and Slade have to work together to get her back.

Robin’s POV~

It’s been 336 hours, two weeks, since y/n and i fought. 335 hours since she left for good and destroyed all my information on finding her father. 334 hours and 40 minutes since the Titans found out. 334 hours and 20 minutes since we all lashed out at each other. 333 since we all decided to calm down and talk it through. And 332 hours and 35 minutes since we came to the conclusion of disbanding.

The Titans were already treading on thin ice with each other for some weird reasons nobody could really remember. Guess y/n leaving was finally the straw that broke the camels back, the thing to make the whole team collapse. She was the glue holding this team together, without her? We all fall apart.

I wish I could take back some- no, all of the words I said to her. I feel terrible and I just want her back in my arms and back with the team, eating victory pizza, or playing video games and getting interrupted by villains terrorising Jump City.

I hate the reason I even got petty and started the fight. All because she wants her fathers tracker back in her arm so he can protect her. I should have just put it back in without being an asshole, I know her farther can protect her better than me, but I let my pride and ego get in the way.

I’ve been trying to get ahold of the trackers coordinates, at least to see if she was somewhere safe, but it seems that Slade must have encrypted it somehow. Either that or something terribly bad has happened to her. I couldn’t imagine her being in any serious trouble, in need of help, and I can barely do anything.

The security system went off as the tower’s main computer received a call. I pressed the answer button.

“Slade…”

“Hello, Robin. It’s been awhile.”

“Where’s y/n? Why isn’t her tracker working?”

“That’s what I called for. Y/n’s seems to have been destroyed. I think her mother has her.”

“Then why haven’t you done anything!?”

“Because, as much as I hate to say this… I will need the Titans’ help. Her mother has requested help from Red X, and now they’re working together.”

“I’ll get the others. When are we going to save her?”

“Meet me at this location in one hour.”

He sent the coordinates and I forwarded them to the Titans, explaining that we need to help get y/n back.

~

We all met at the location that was sent out. The Titans didn’t seem like talking to me, but Raven asked what we were going to do to get her back. I didn’t tell the about Slade yet so they were all shocked when cut my answer off as appeared from the shadows.

“We need to infiltrate m/n’s base.” He continued to explain the plan to us as we were scouting out the base from our hiding spot across the road from the base.

~

Our plan of sneaking in and quietly taking y/n without minimal fighting guards had failed so far. Beast Boy and Cyborg high-fived too loud when we got to the room that y/n tied up on a chair in.

The high-five alerted all of the guards and they were closing in around us. We all started fighting, I quickly knocked out someone as a different person caught my attention.

Red X came running toward me and tackled me to the ground. I punched his nose and kicked him off of me. We both immediately got back up and continued fighting. Luckily for us his gadgets weren’t working because he is out of the power supply for them.

With one last uppercut he fell to the ground and my sight locks in on y/n. I rush over to her side to untie her but my hands went through her and her body started glitching. It’s a hologram.

y/n’s POV~

I readied my bow and aimed at Robin I then signaled to RedX that I was locked on Robin and ready to take the shot. He jumped down to the rest of the Titans ready to attack but a sword pierced his torso.

Since when was my dad willing to work with the Titans? I gasp and accidentally fired my bow, the arrow going through Robins shoulder. Shit! I quickly ran into another room and threw my bow on the ground in frustration.

A figure came through another door with their arms crossed, she shook her head and spoke, “I’m disappointed, you had the shot on him, on the boy who hurt you, why did you miss. If you were truly my daughter you wouldn’t have missed.”

“No, no. Please I’m still your daughter, let me make it up to you. Please. Don’t stop being my mother. I need you to be here, what can I do to make it up to you?” She looked at me with disgust.

“You can stop whining like a little bitch for starters. Look how desperate not having a mother made you, you’ll do anything just for me not to abandon you again.” She chuckled and threw a knife at my head.

I dodged the knife and caught it, I threw it to the other side of the room as she got into a fighting stance. l didn’t want to fight, I got into a defensive stance. She swung at my face but I blocked it, she then tried to kick my legs out from underneath me but I blocked that too.

“Mother, please. Stop!” She punched my eye then kicked my ankle. I let out a loud scream as she stabbed me in the stomach. She pulled out the knife and pushed me to the ground as the door got kicked down.

“Don’t you dare hurt my daughter.” My father was the first to enter the room and lunge at my mother. The Titans were in fighting positions ready to assist, besides Robin who instantly ran to me and kneeled at my side.

“Y/n, hey, I’m sorry, I’m so sorry my love.” He ripped off a bit of his cape and held it on my stab wound. He wrapped his other arm around my shoulders. “I am so sorry. I wish I could take back what I said. I’m sorry I love you so much.” He kissed my cheek and I smiled up at him.

I went to apologise for the things I said but he shushed me. “Save your energy.” I looked down and saw that I had lost a fair bit of blood, a puddle on the ground where I was laying and on Robin’s suit. His green glove had almost completely turned red, I let out a really faint chuckle.

“Hey, stay with me now.” My vision was darkening and he looked into my eyes. I smiled up at him as my vision fully clouded into black.

~

I woke up later in my father’s safe-house. I was in the med room and he was checking my vitals next to me.

“Thankfully, you are my daughter, so you healed rather quickly. I’m glad you okay.” He gave me a hug. “The Titans are at the tower if you want to go now.”

“Are you sure? Wouldn’t you want me at a closer distance now?”

“I trust you’ll be safe with them. Mainly Robin.”

~

I walk out of the elevator in the tower and immediately greeted by hugs and warm welcomes. I look at Robin and smile, a tear ran down my cheek and he wiped it with his thumb. He kissed me on the lips, disgusted sounds came from the other Titans as well all walked to the large sofa.

[ng-scanlations]

Bloody Roar 2 V-Jump book bio: Shina

Two souls intertwining

“Hey, hey, dad. Um… y’know, I…. have something to ask you.” “What is it Jeanne?” “Well, my real dad and mom are in heaven right?” “Ah, yes that’s right. What’s the matter? Have you been feeling lonely?” “Mm mmh, I’m fine! Cause I’ve got you dad. Err… anyway, that’s not what I was talking about. What I mean to ask is… dad, I was wondering how you found me. Yeah, that’s it.” “You mean the first time you and I met each other? How terrible, have you really forgotten?” “-I didn’t forget! But… y’know, … uhhh…. yeah ok, sorry…” “No need to apologize. You were so little back then; it can’t be helped that you don’t remember. Besides, your question isn’t entirely accurate. It wasn’t that I found you, it was more like you found me.” “Eh?! That can’t be true! I mean, I was super tiny then right? I couldn’t’ve done something like that! Dad, you gotta be lying.” “I wouldn’t lie to you. Without your parents around, you were left in the care of the church. You really don’t remember do you?” “Hmm…. uhh….” “You were quite the rascal you know. You didn’t pray, you ate your food with your hands, you rode the next door neighbor’s dog like a horse and pulled on its fur. You also didn’t listen to the priest and sisters at all, and when they tried to punish you after having been so exasperated, you’d kick up a huge fuss gnashing your teeth and scratching at them….. Well, I wonder if you still have those bad behaviors even now.” “N-no way! …. So, dad, you didn’t like me then…”

“There was nothing to like or dislike. Like I said, you were the one who found me. I just happened to be visiting the church that day and you jumped onto me all of a sudden you know. I was surprised but the priest even more so. You, who never let anyone, not even the people you were around everyday, get close to you, had come face-to-face with me in a tight hug. The sisters hurriedly tried to pull you off, but you clung too tightly for us to be separated. ‘Let her do what she wants.’ I pleaded. I thought that eventually you would get tired and let go… I underestimated your stubbornness. Not only did you not let go after such a long time, but you also started to doze off into a sound sleep. The priest must have felt there was something going on between us; he said he wanted to consult with me regarding your future. And so, with you still biting and clinging to me, it was decided that we would leave the church together.” “…. Must’ve been annoying huh….” “Jeanne, you haven’t been listening. Not a day has gone by since that day where you have been a nuisance to me. About your parents, what we just talked about…. I’ve told you the whole truth. And do you know why? It’s because I don’t want to be the kind of father who lies and hides things from his daughter. What parent wouldn’t be happy to be hugged by their own child? Ever since that day, I have been the happiest father in the world.” “Really?” “What did I just say? I would never lie to my daughter.” “…..….. Well then…” “What is it?” “Well then, see ya next time. Oh, can I have a big hug? With you dad. Y’know, just like the first time we met!” “Hmm, what’s going on here I wonder… This young lady seems to have gained a considerable amount of weight recently for a 7-year-old, hasn’t she?” “Ooohhhh, you’re such a jerk dad!”

[skylarmoon71]

Matt Murdock (Daredevil) - Chapter 9

“He tried to kiss me and I ran like a coward!” 

You wail.

From the moment you’d slammed the door in his face, he sort of assumed it had to do with your nerves. It was endearing. Especially since you’d texted him the following morning with several apologies.

“I’m sure he knows you well enough to understand. It might be better if you just told him that you don’t have any experience. You’re just nervous.” Daredevil explains.

Of course you contemplated it, but that seems even more daunting than trying to kiss him.

“I wish you were a girl, then we could practice.”

He’s not sure what to say to that. Is there a right response to such a statement?

“I’m..sorry?”

“It’s okay, can’t blame you for that.”

You go back to snacking on your gummies, apparently this is your comfort food.

When you start to fidget, he gets the feeling that you have more to say.

“You know I’ve always wanted a hickey. The girls used to gush about it. I was always envious.”

He’s not really sure when he became your girl talk confidant. Even for him this still feels a bit like an intrusion.

Yet, for a moment he can imagine it. Your pulse racing as he presses you to the couch. The heat of your skin as he marks you. Your shaky breath as you beg for more.

“I need to leave.”

The imagery was a bit too much, especially for his heightened senses.

“I have faith in you.”

With that he’s out the window. You’re so caught up in your rantings that you don’t pay much mind to how quickly he’d bolted.

~

“Foggy, you’re out of gummies!”

“That’s because you eat all of them.”

“I do not!!”

You’re rummaging his cabinets, but he’s fresh out. Foggy walks out of the bathroom, hair still dripping.

“Hah, you look like a wet dog”

He throws the towel and it hits you in the face. You toss it back and Foggy just laughs.

“So, since it’s just the two of us, what’s going on with you and Matt?”

You’re as stiff as a board.

“W-What do you mean? D-Did he say something?”

“He told me you both went out on a date last Saturday.”

It’s not like you were really hiding it from Foggy. He’s just been so busy with his new girlfriend that you haven’t had a chance.

“Well I sort of maybe asked him out and he said yes so we went on one date.”

“You dog!!”

“Don’t tease me, Foggy!!”

He just grins, as you move to his bed, dropping onto it.

“I really like him, but he tried to kiss me and I ran away as if he had a terrible disease.”

“Oh dude, that’s rough.”

“I know. He said it was fine and we’ve been talking as usual but I feel like he’s not going to try again because he thinks I don't want it. It’s not my fault my parents kept me barricaded like fort knox.”

“Hah, it's funny because it’s true.”

You glare.

“Not helping Foggy.”

“Right, sorry. Honestly just tell him. Matt’s a pretty cool guy, he’ll understand. If you need a kissing partner just say the word.” He puckers his lips leaning in and you laugh, pushing him away.

“Ewww, gross stop it Foggy!!”

He’s laughing along with you. When the door opens Matt steps in to the sound of your laughter.

“Is he trying to tickle you again?” Matt asks playfully.

“No, he’s trying to kiss me!!” You’re still laughing loudly and Matt smiles.

“I don’t know how I feel about you trying to kiss my girlfriend Foggy.”

It’s a playful jab, but you both pause, mid wrestle.

“Girlfriend..”

Your voice is a mix of surprise and elation. You practically kick Foggy off the bed. He grunts when he connects with the floor and you shoot upright.

“Really! I’m your girlfriend?!”

Matt is still processing Foggy on the ground.

“Yes. At least I was hoping. I guess I should have just asked you directly instead of assuming.” He rubs the back of his neck a bit shyly.

“Will you be my girlfriend (Y/N)?”

“Of course! Oh my goodness you don’t even have to ask.” You hug him happily and he smiles, returning it.

“That’s all nice and romantic but I think I broke something.”

“Walk it off.” You call.

“Are you sure you want that monster as a girlfriend Matt!”

You pull away with a glare and Foggy knows that look when you rush at him. With a lift of your elbow, you dive at him.

“W-Wait (Y/N) don’t-”

“JOHN CENA!!”

The crash echoes and so does Foggy’s cry of pain. 

[zambehnation]

They never kiss because in this one Wilson and Cuddy and the merry band of fellows convince House that he didn’t need to be miserable. Only he found he could be happy with someone else.

You’re jealous.

Of course, I’ve secretly harbored feelings for you all of this time. Leave your new lover. Come away with me instead.

Tempting. Except, you were never jealous of any of the other people I’ve been interested in— you were actually happy for me when I started dating Stacy. So, what’s changed? Is it because it’s a man?

You— actually think I’m jealous of you dating that man. I’m not— House, I have a patient in ten. Can we talk about this later? Or not because nothing’s wrong.

I asked if you wanted to get dinner. You said you were busy. You’re not. I checked with your secretary—

I had plans. I do have a life outside of this hospital that my secretary isn’t paid to manage.

There’s nothing, I would have known if—

What is it that you actually want? Why are you here? So, I missed this dinner. We can reschedule. I’m free tomorrow night. We’ll finally meet and I’m sure I’ll approve of him because anyone who makes you less of an ass is good in my book.

You’re avoiding me. I don’t care if you don’t approve of him. I care that we haven’t hung out since you found out. You’re not homophobic or else I’d have run you off sooner with all the gay jokes and the flirting. You’re jealous because I’m dating a man. But Pookie, you shouldn’t, because you’re still number one.

I’m not— It’s just a little weird. You never told me and now I’m just supposed to accept— I’m the one who’s always been there for you— through the leg and Stacy leaving and the addiction and the destruction. I stood next to you, given you everything you needed, everything I could.

Why isn’t it me?

That sounds a lot like a confession which if it is…is terrible.

It’s that serious?

You like him?

You’ve been pushing me to let other people in since you’ve known me— to move on from Stacy (from you), to try (to fall in love, be happy)—

Does it have to be with him?

It could have been with you.

—And now what? You suddenly decide to act like an idiot because there’s someone else or is it because you think that I owe you enough to sleep with you? That it? After all this time, you banked enough to collect on the fuck the cripple credits?

Don’t cheapen this. You know that’s not what I meant. If I had known there was a chance—

How could you not have known?

I didn’t know you liked men. You’re not as transparent as you think.

Not to anyone else. But to you? You’re as obsessive about me as I am of you. You notice everything and you’re proud when you’ve figured me out, when you’re right about me. So how could you have gotten this wrong?

You know I—?

I want you.

That you wanted me? Yeah.

I’ve always known. It wasn’t a problem. I wanted you too.

But you never said anything.

You hide. You repress. You get married (to other people). You could have said something, but you didn’t because you weren’t going to risk it so why should I?

Because you’re not afraid of risking anything even when you have everything to lose. You’re the adrenaline junkie. You thrive on the knife edge. Maybe there was something there to lose if you’d told me the truth and told me that you knew how I felt but for some reason you decided you weren’t going to risk it.

You think it’s not worth it if you can’t risk losing it.

No, I wasn’t.

Why?

It doesn’t matter. (You could have said something, and I still wouldn’t have let you because you stay when you’re needed. I’ve never seen you stay because you were loved.)

You want it not to matter? (But you want me.) You want to stay just… friends? (But I want you. We could be more, and we could be good, but you’d rather we pretend?)

Yeah. (No. Call me out. You’re supposed to be brave.)

Okay. I’ll come to dinner.

[dialovers-translations]

Diabolik Lovers LOST EDEN ー Laito Maniac [Prologue]

CHAPTER MASTERLIST

Monologue

ーー Ever since, Laito-kun and Kino-kun,

began to work out the various steps

of their plan to attack the Sakamaki family.

As for myself, 

I simply could not bring myself to join them,

and instead chose to watch over them from afar...

Because I knew that I probably wouldn’t be able to stop myself,

from asking them if maybe, just maybe...

they could reconsider. 

I am sure that if I were to be there with them,

I’d blurt it out.

Even if I know that to Laito-kun,

that would be the most painful thing to hear.

ー The scene starts in the inner courtyard of Kino’s manor

Yui: ( In the end...I know what my heart tells me is the right answer... )

( It’s just figuring out how to get the message across to Laito-kun which is the tricky part... )

( But, at this rateーー )

...I wonder if I should at least let the others know about all of this? 

But I’m sure that Laito-kunーー 

( He’ll most definitely feel betrayed by me, no? )

( Even so...I simply cannot stand and watch as everyone’s lives might be lostーー )

...I can’t choose either-or... 

*Rustle* 

Yui: ( Should I prioritize protecting the man I love? )

( ...Still...That’s what Laito-kun wants from me, right? )

( It’s almost as if he’s asking me to choose between himself...or the others. )

ー Laito walks up to her

Laito: Bitch-chan~

Yui: Laito-kun...

Laito: So this is where you’ve been? I’ve been looking for you, you know?

Yui: I’m sorry. I kind of needed some fresh air.

Laito: Nfu~ I wonder if that’s because of what’s being discussed inside the manor?

Yui: ...

Laito: You really can’t hide anything, can you?

Your expression immediately gives away what you’re thinking.

Yui: ...Is that so...?

Laito: I wonder if you don’t realize this yourself? ーー But yes. 

You are opposed to killing the Sakamaki brothers.

Yui: ...

Laito: See? Seems like I’m spot on.

Yui: I don’t want to see you get hurt any more.

Laito: ...We already had this talk once the other day, didn’t we?

Yui: No matter what...I want you toーー 

Laito: Could you please stop putting all the blame on me? 

Yui: Eh? 

Laito: I mean, if you’re simply going to repeat that phrase every time, this discussion will never get anywhere, will it?

Besides, I can’t seem to prove my true feelings to you. 

Which means I’ll have no other choice but to ultimately tell you ‘Maybe for you?’, right? 

I just don’t want that kind of deceit.

Yui: Then, what should I say...?

Laito: ーー To admit that it hurts you emotionally. 

Yui: ...

Laito: Or maybe this: ‘I simply can’t stand by and do nothing when I know that their lives might be in danger!’

‘After all, that’d make me a bad person as well! I can’t live with that!’

ーー Just like that?

Yui: No way...How could you, Laito-kun.

Laito: But it’s the truth, isn’t it?

Yui: ...It’s not...I would neverーー 

Laito: In that case, I have no other choice but to prove you wrong as well. I won’t be hurt, even if my brothers die. 

In the end, we know our own feelings best, don’t we?

Yui: ...

ー Laito pins her against the wall

*Thud* 

Laito: You really are a liar, aren’t you? 

Yui: I haven’t even said anything yet...

Laito: Exactly. But I can already tell what you’re going to say next.

Yui: Ugh...

Laito: It’s fine. You don’t have to agree with me?

I guess that’s too much to ask of Miss Goodie-Two-Shoes, huh?

It would feel wrong to go along with my opinion, wouldn’t it? To someone like you.

Yui: Laito-kun...

( Hey, tell me then. If you feel like you aren’t wrong. )

( Why do you look so terribly sad? )

( Deep down...You don’t actually want to kill your brothers, do you? )

Laito: ...What? Why are you staring straight at my face? 

Yui: I was just thinking how your expression looks like you want me to disagree with youーー That’s all. 

Laito: Eh...?

Yui: I just can’t help but feel like you’re hoping that I’ll stop you...By how you keep on bringing this topic back up, or asking me the same questions over and over...

Laito: Fufu. You’re trying to say that I wish to be stopped by you, basically? 

Yui: ...

Laito: ...Don’t be ridiculous...

Yui: ...You’re basically confirming my statement by getting upset, no? 

Laito: ...!

Yui: You always get upset when somebody sees right through you. 

I’m also capable...of understanding you, see? 

( Exactly. That’s why I’ve been feeling indecisive this whole time. )

( While facing him head-on and going into discussion with him...The answer finally came to me. )

Laito: You sound pretty confident. 

Yui: ...But, I really think that this is how you truly feel deep inside your heart.

Although I’m sure you’ll only deny it again. 

But this is how I feel. Perhaps you simply have yet to realize yourself. 

In which case, I have no other choice but to stop you. 

After all, I don’t want you to get hurt any deeper.

Laito: Bitch-chan...

Yui: Even if it means I have to betray you, or you’ll end up hating me as a result. 

If that means it will ultimately save you from being hurt...I don’t mind.

That is my answerーー 

I want to keep your heart safe. 

Laito: ...

Yui: ...I’m sorry. I guess in that sense...I might be a liar after all. 

ー Laito embraces her

On certain CGs, little black roses will appear on the screen. If you click on them, you get an extra line of dialogue.

“You can read me like an open book, can’t you...? You’re the only person in this world who understands my true feelings.”

“I even find myself doubting...Whether you need me in your life...That’s how I feel at times.”

*Rustle*

Yui: But, I...I truly wish you would speak openly about your true feelings. 

I know that might be difficult for someone like you, who constantly lies even to himself...

Laito: Excuse me? Are you pitying me? 

Yui: Exactly...And at the same time, I feel pathetic myself as well. 

I mean, aren’t I? I can’t even get the person I love to show his true feelings to me. 

But I know that doing that is just very difficult for you. 

Laito: ...

Yui: But even if I know that, I keep on asking myself the same question over and over.

Laito-kun...Do you even need me...? That is.

Laito: ーー Fufu...Fufufu...

Yui: ( Laito-kun? )

Laito: I should have expected as much from you...Fufufu...You seem to know me very well. 

I can’t believe you understand me even better than I understand myself...You really areーー 

You’re such a ruthless yet precious girl, aren’t you...?

Asking yourself whether or not I need you...Kind of a stupid question at this point, don’t you think?

Yui: ...!

Laito: I mean, you’re probably right. And most likely, you’re the only person who’d realize that. 

But stillーー 

Yui: You’re a mystery to yourself, aren’t you?

Laito: Exactly. I don’t know anything. 

Yui: You’re not alone in that.

Sometimes I have a hard time figuring out my own feelings as well. 

Laito: You too? 

Yui: Yes...Actually, I think everyone does at some point or another...

*Rustle rustle* 

Laito: ...Bitch-chan...What do you think I should do?

Yui: Well...

Laito: It hurts. Because of these powers, I’ve become all the more aware of the fact that I’m his son... 

Besides, just knowing that I have to live in this World which he created is unbearable to me.

Yui: ーー That’s why you want to destroy it, correct?

Laito: Exactly ... Still ーー Even though my brothers are the closest thing in this world to that man...

I don’t think I actually hate them. 

That’s why I jumped on Kino’s offer. I figured that if I got them out of the way first and foremost, it’d help me make a definite resolve.

Yui: Thank you...Laito-kun. 

I understand very well...Just how difficult it is for you to admit to all of this.

Laito: ...That’s whyーー 

*Rustle* 

Kino: Oh, Laito. So this is where you’ve been.

Laito: ...Kino. What’s wrong?

Yui: ...

Kino: Nah, our plans have changed a little, you see! I’ll explain everything to you on our way there.

Laito: On our way there? ...Are we heading somewhere? 

Kino: Yeah. The Sakamaki manor. I’m going with the plan we discussed earlier. Is that okay? 

ー Kino teleports

*Woosh*

Yui: ...Don’t tell me...

( He’ll go attack the others!? )

Laito: Bitch-chan, we should go as well. 

ー Laito picks her up and jumps into the air

Yui: Eh!? Laito-kun...Hold uーー

Laito: Shh...Could you be quiet for a bit? We’re flying through the air, so you’ll end up biting your tongue. 

Yui: B-But...

( What now? In the end, our conversation ended without a proper conclusion... )

( If they launch an attack on the others at this rate...No. )

( I confirmed how Laito-kun truly feels earlier. ーー I just need to have faith in him. )

( I am sure...He will be able to stop Kino-kun as well...! )

ー The scene shifts to the balcony of the Sakamaki manor

Ayato: ーー You’re tellin’ the truth, right? If you’re just spoutin’ random crap, I’m killin’ you right here, right now. 

Kanato: I’ve never heard of a Familiar delivering a false report. So I am sure he will show himself right now. 

Subaru: If they want to just waltz their way in here, I’ll give them a taste of these fists.

Reiji: So a strange fellow is heading this way? ...Although they might end up disappointed to find out Laito is not here at present.

Ayato: ーー I don’t think they’ll mind that.

Kanato: Exactly. If anything, it’ll only play in their favor, don’t you think? 

Even if he was here, I doubt he’d be of much help. 

Shuu: I mean, you have a point...

Subaru: ーー Who cares ‘bout the details. Is it the same guy who has been sneakin’ ‘round our place before? 

Shuu: Good question. Well, our Familiar deemed it necessary to let us know.

So I’m pretty sure it was his plan to have us be in a disadvantaged position?

Reiji: ーー ...If you speak of the devil. Seems like he has shown up already. 

Kino: Oh? You noticed me? Well, I guess you would.

Subaru: ...You bastard...So whatcha here pickin’ a fight for, huh? 

Kino: Um...You’re Subaru, the youngest? Nice to meet you.

Subaru: Aah!?

Kino: Can’t you at least give me a proper greeting instead of going ‘Aah!?’...? 

Ayato: Oi. You should realize this isn’t the time and place to be exchangin’ hello’s!

Kino: Hmー What a bummer. No need to be so alert.

Kanato: That’s only making you sound even more suspicious, you know?

Reiji: From what I can tell, you are a Vampire just like us...

Which means it was you who entered our manor before?

Kino: As to be expected of the ever-so-sharp second eldest...An excellent observation. 

Shuu: You’re either after Laito or his powers, huh? ...Haah.

Kino: Too bad! I’m not interested in either of those!

Subaru: Haah? What is your objective then!?

*THUD*

Kino: Oh come on, calm down. Listen to what I have to say.

ーー It was the owner of those powers who asked me a favor.

Ayato: Aah?

Kino: To kill you guys...You see?

Subaru: ...Cut the crap...!!

ー Subaru throws a punch at him but Kino dodges just in time

*Woosh* 

Kino: Woah! Geez, I can’t believe you’d lunge at me right away. It’s time to teach you some...manners!

*THUD*

*Thud* 

Subaru: Uguh...! 

ー Subaru collapses

Ayato: ...You bastard...You’re just spoutin’ a lot of bullcrap...You’re up against me next!

*Woosh* 

Kino: Geezー ...I was going to wait to get this party started until the main guy got here but...

Well, he’s the one who planned all of this, so he can’t complain, right!? 

*Whistle* 

*Woosh woosh woosh* 

Kanato: !? Who are these people? 

Shuu: This scent...Ghouls!? What are they doing here...?

Reiji: ーー I believe now is not the time to theorize about that.

Kino: Oi, you guys! Let’s massacre these guys at once!

*Caw caw caw* 

Ayato: ーー Your opponent shall be none other than myself!

Kino: Fufu. Sure. Bring it on!

ー The scene shifts to the outside of the manor

Yui: ...!!

( Oh no! The fight has already started! )

Laito: ...

Ayato: ...Laito!? Fuck...You come waltzin’ in here like it’s nothin’.

Kino: You’ve finally shown up. I’ve been waiting...

*Woosh*

Kanato: Laito!! That guy told us earlier...

Are you actually trying to kill us!?

*Woosh*

Yui: Wellーー!

( Oh no...I spoke up instinctively. Even though this isn’t the time for me to butt in. )

Laito: ーー It’s true. 

Ayato: Haah!? The fuck!? What are you thinkin’!?

Laito: It’s not that strange is it? I’m sure all of you could see me doing something like that.

Ayato: Have you completely lost your mind!?

*Cling*

Ayato: But two can play that game.

Laito: ...Ayato-kun...

Yui: ( !? Is that a silver knife!? Don’t tell me, Ayato-kun...! )

Ayato: I’ll send you to the afterlife. Before you can do the same to me, you see!? 

Kino: Excuse me!? You’re just gonna pretend I’m no longer here!? 

Ayato: You’re up next! Get yourself ready and wait!

Yui: ...Hold up! Ayato-kunーー

Laito: Stop, Bitch-chan. This is between Ayato-kun and myself. 

Yui: Ugh...

Ayato: Nice guts!

Laito: ...

Ayato: Oi, what’s wrong!? You’re not gonna fight back!?

Laito: Not reallyーー

Ayato: ‘Not really’, my ass!!

*Cling*

Yui: ( ...!! )

Laito: ...! What are you doing? You only barely grazed me. 

Ayato: Cut the crap! What’d be the point in killin’ you when you won’t even try to defend yourself!? 

Laito: What do you mean...? You should just go ahead and end me already...

Ayato: ーー ...No way I’m lettin’ you be the only one who gets to be put out of their misery!

Laito: Kuh...

Ayato: I bet you want nothin’ more than to die now that you had that shitty old man’s powers forced on you!? 

I mean, I’m sure it must be hard to be forced to inherit the powers of the guy you loathe against your own will...

But all of us who have to stand there and watch you suffer...We’re hurtin’ just as much, you know!? 

Laito: ...You guys are?

Ayato: Duh!?

Yui: ( Ayato-kun...Laito-kun...Please stop already...! )

Laito: Don’t lie to me...You’re all just doing as you please, not thinking about those around you...

Ayato: If you don’t believe me, then I’m done with you!

Laito: ...Kuh...

ー Laito falls to his knees

Yui: Laito-kun...!

Laito: What should I do...? If not even Ayato will free me from my suffering...!

*Woosh* 

Laito: I guess I shouldn’t have bothered listening to everything you had to say and just done this alreadyーー

This way I can also...

Yui: Laito-kun!? 

( What’s happening!? There’s suddenly some kind of pressure...radiating from him... )

Shuu: This is bad...His powers have begun flurrying out of control...

Ayato: !? Chichinashi! Get away from him!!

Yui: Eh!? B-But...!!

ー Kanato pulls her away

Kanato: No buts! I mean, I won’t stop you if you want to get blown to bits by staying by Laito’s side, of course!

*Woosh* 

Laito: I’ve had enough...I just don’t know anymore!!

Subaru: Oi! Laito! Calm down!!

*Woosh*

Laito: I just want this suffering to end, for someone to put me out of my misery...So why!?

Why do you all...Band together to only cause me even more pain...!? 

*WOOSH*

Kino: ...Shit!

Yui: Laito-kun...!!!

Laito: Aaaaaaaah....!!!!!!!!

Yui: Laito-kunーー

*BOOM*

ー The screen fades to white

Monologue

ーー My innermost feelings. My true feelings. 

True love. 

Those concepts are simply too complex for me. 

If I was able to live more carefree,

just like Ayato-kun,

perhaps I would have been able,

to be more genuine to myself about those things.

To love and be loved. 

To cherish and be cherished. 

Thanks to her,

I was able to somewhat come face-to-face with those.

However, that man’s powers,

once again made me lose my mind,

putting a haze over those sincere feelings.

Meanwhile, 

the others remain capable of being true to themselves. 

They can talk about their genuine feelings to others,

while I’m the only one who remains messed up.

Laito: Uu...Uu...

Yui: ( ...I can hear someone crying...Is this...Laito-kun? )

Laito: ーー Save me. 

Yui: ( I have to save him...! But I can’t move...My body feels like it’s made out of lead... )

Laito: Somebody!!

Yui: ーー Laito-kun!!

ー Yui wakes up in the guest room at the Sakamaki manor

*Rustle* 

Yui: ( Where am I? )

Ayato: Oi! Chichinashi! Get a grip!

Yui: Ayato-kun...?

Ayato: Phew, god. I was worried you might never wake up againーー

Yui: ( Right. Laito-kun’s powers went rampant andーー )

I’ve been unconscious ever since? 

Ayato: Yeah.

Yui: Haah, I see. Ah, right! Where is Laito-kun!?

Ayato: ーー Look next to you. 

Laito: ...

*Rustle*

Yui: He’s asleep...?

Ayato: Yeah. He’s not hurt or anythin’, so no need to worry. 

Accordin’ to Reiji, he just needs some time to recharge after unleashing those powers which he hasn’t yet learnt to properly wield. 

Yui: I see...So, what happened to the manor in the human world? 

Ayato: It got flattened with the ground. Sure didn’t make things easier.

Yui: ...Is that why we’re here? 

Ayato: Well, yeah.

Yui: ( The castle in the Demon World. It’s been a while since we came here but...I feel like it will only make Laito-kun even more unstable... )

( I’m sure this place is filled with bad memories. )

( Besides, he mentioned before that it’s harder to control his powers in the Demon World than it is in the human world, right...? )

( And look what happened over there when he was supposedly being ‘restrained’ーー )

Ayato: ーー I’m leaving him in your care. 

Yui: Eh? 

Ayato: We couldn’t do it. It has to be you. 

Yui: Ayato-kun...

Ayato: Well, there you have it. See you. 

ー Ayato leaves the room

*Thud* 

Yui: ( Ayato-kun looked hurt. )

( I mean, makes sense... )

*Rustle* 

Laito: Ugh...

Yui: ...!? Laito-kun? 

*Rustle rustle*

Laito: Bitch-chan...? Huh? ...This is the castle in the Demon World? Howーー

Aah, right. I made a mess out of everything, didn’t I? 

Yui: You remember? 

Laito: Unfortunately. Haah, if only I could forget. 

About everything...

Yui: Laito-kun...

Laito: By the way, I’m pretty sure I heard Ayato-kun’s voice earlier?

Yui: Ah, yeah. He was here just now.

Laito: I see. I guess he left because he doesn’t want to confront me right now.

Yui: I’m not sure? 

Laito: ...Hey, Bitch-chan? 

Yui: Hm? Yes? 

Laito: I wonder why Ayato-kun acted like he was going to kill me...but then changed his mind and barely even put a scratch on me. 

Yui: Wellーー 

Laito: I wonder if he doesn’t want to give me a chance at ending my misery while all of them are still suffering?

Yui: ...That might play a part in it as well. 

I believe that Ayato-kun doesn’t want you to give up on life because of such reasoning. 

Laito: Excuse me? 

Yui: I think it’s probably ーー Kindness. From Ayato-kun.

Laito: Kindness... 

Yui: ( Laito-kun...? )

Laito: ...Uu...Blergh...Uu...

Yui: Laito-kun!? A-Are you okay?

Laito: Uu...Haah, haah...

I’m sorry. I’m going to rest a bit longer. 

Yui: Sure...Don’t push yourself, okay?

Laito: Haah...

Yui: ( I wonder what just went down? )

ーー TO BE CONTINUED ーー

[emmy-dekarios-bg3]

Heart of the Weave - A Baldurs Gate fanfiction - Part 2

Chapter 4 - The Bhaalists

Our food arrives so we sit back down at the table after several minutes of dancing and laughing. Oh, man, when Gale laughs, when he smiles so big, it gives me the best feeling inside. It’s as if a swarm of butterflies are dancing around in my stomach or an overwhelming sensation of excitement is bursting through the seams. Sigh. I love being the only people up here – outside of the staff, of course.

“Oh this food looks delectable,” Gale comments. “Thank you Jamus, for all you do. Say, how is your brother doing?” Jamus clears his throat and nervously smiles, and it worries me for a moment. Why is he acting so skittish? Is he normally like this?

“He’s excelling in his career as a full-time healer for folks who need it. Sometimes he travels to Neverwinter, but most of the time he’s in Baldur’s Gate. However, he will be moving out there soon enough… It’s bad right now, and it’s only about to get worse. I thought it was terrible before, when the Absolute was the biggest concern in the world. The horrors in Baldur’s Gate right now are about to spread like wildfire and everyone will either be affected or killed.” Gale and I pause, staring at each other in bewilderment and trying to comprehend what he’s talking about. I’m not surprised Baldur’s Gate is once again under fire, but also, I was hoping for continuous peace.

“What are you talking about?” I ask. “What’s happening?” My first assumption was the tadpole, but I know damn well that’s impossible. But what else could be “spreading”? Some sort of outbreak, maybe?

“Oh, you haven’t heard. My apologies. Well… It’s the Bhaalists. Those bloodthirsty, evil freaks who are human but act like monsters to please their God… Which, I know you’re aware.”

“Yes, we killed Bhaal’s chosen. Orin.”

“Yes, well, there have been horrible murder sprees. Worse than ever before. Several are trying to become Bhaal’s chosen to replace Orin. It’s not safe. People in the city are having to hide in the woods or travel to the mountains to escape. Still, some are found unfortunately. That’s all I really know. I hope someone intervenes, and I am begging to the Gods that Jasik makes it here safely. I’ve been worried. What’s worse is, I’m sure Waterdeep will be targeted at some point also.” FUCK. Just what we need. If it’s not one fatal issue, it’s another. I guess now really is a great time for Jenevelle, Gale, and myself to be immortal, though this isn’t an unusual predicament for us. Still, at least our baby should be okay. I hate that we had to find all of this out during a romantic dinner.

“Just keep your eyes peeled. They’re everywhere,” Jasik adds. “Though, who knows. Baldur’s Gate could be the only target.”

“You say that now, but eventually the city will run out of people for them to obliterate. The cult will, I assume, either kill each other or target other cities THEN kill each other. It’s only a matter of time before we find out.” Gale is right – it’s just a matter of time before everything turns to pure shit.

We make it home rather late, but Jenevelle is still awake somehow.

“I promise you both, I tried to get her to bed but all she wanted to do was play. What can I say, though? I’m Auntie Karlach.” I laugh as she hands me Jenevelle, who looks thrilled to see me.

“She definitely enjoys having you around, and why wouldn’t she?” I respond, smiling down at my baby. She begins reaching for me so she can nurse.

“So that’s what it is. She just wanted your goods! Little miss had me fooled. Anyway, I’ll see you both later. I’m exhausted and have to hang out with Wyll’s dad tomorrow. It’s a long story.” She doesn’t exactly sound thrilled, but I guess it’s important to hang out with your in-laws every once in awhile, right? I think since both of her parents are dead, she’s wanting to have some sort of bond with a parental figure of some sorts. She’s brought it up to me a few times in the past.

“Thank you, Karlach. You truly are a treasure,” Gale says.

“D’aw, friend! Don’t mention it!” As Karlach leaves, Gale sits down on the sofa next to me while I nurse Jenevelle. It’s apparent that he knows I’m worried about the Bhaal cultist situation, judging by the way he’s studying my face. In the past, they weren’t trying to kill Orin; she had them by a leash. Now it seems to be a fierce murder spree that’s getting worse by the second. How was tonight the first I heard about it?

“Are you alright? I’m so sorry if your night was ruined. I tried to make it so special for you… For your birthday.” His voice is dreary along with his puppy dog eyes.

“What? Oh honey, no. You made it more special than I could’ve imagined. Now that we’re immortal, birthdays aren’t a ‘thing’ anyways. With that in mind, you gave me an incredible night I won’t forget.” He smiles and takes my hand within his, rubbing my knuckles gently with his thumb.

“I just hope everything is alright.”

“Unfortunately, this issue going on in Baldur’s Gate is outside our control. It never stops. I guess the Bhaalists are nothing compared to what we fought before.” He sighs and hesitates, as if something else is lingering in that intelligent brain of his.

“Since they’re not being stopped, that means we may have to intervene.” I hate how right he is; who else would team up and do it? With us being the ones who defeated the elder brain, I have a feeling everyone will be depending on us anyway.

“What about Jenevelle?” I question, worried who would be watching her or how this will play out overall. “We can’t leave her with anyone unless they happen to be immortal, too. You know, in case of Bhaalists.”

“I know she’s immortal but I still worry about our baby. Man… My ghasts are flabbered. Let’s talk with the others tomorrow and see what they think. One of us may have to stay home with her.”

If it means protecting my daughter, immortal or not, I’m all for it; though, this means Gale and I will be separated from each other for a hot minute. I kiss Jenevelle’s forehead as she starts to become sleepy, then hand her off to Gale who hasn’t been able to hold her much today. I smile at her as she falls asleep comfortably in his arms.

I keep thinking about our friends left behind and if they’ll even be able to fight off these cultists alone. Halsin. Jaheira. Minsc. Even Lae’zel, who I assume is the Astral Planes still, but it’s worth worrying about. Then I come to remember that we have Withers – how could I forget about him? We’ll reach out to him to summon our friends bright and early tomorrow. My brain is racing from the stress and anxiety, causing me to have issues falling asleep. Gale however seems to be unbothered and resting peacefully beside me.

I get out of bed and head down the stairway to the kitchen so I can grab a glass of water and a little snack, thinking it might help ease my mind just a little. As I make it to the kitchen, I hear Tara’s little feet tapping around on the floor.

“Emmy? Darling, is everything alright?”

“Oh, sorry to disturb you, Tara. Just coming down to eat something. Ugh… Gods. I want to quit thinking about that damned murder cult.” She flies up toward me, her gaze holding onto mine.

“Truth is, they’ll always be around. There will constantly be evil lurking about, especially from those Bhaal worshippers. They will stop at nothing to please their disgusting God.”

“The thing is…they’re on a rampage. It’s like a competition to see who can become his favorite. The nastier, more disgusting murders, the better. His Chosen has been dead and there’s basically a breeding cow that’s been creating so many Bhaalspawn to worship him. He craves the attention, but also craves their deaths. All the cultists are killing everyone, and each other, so he can have a new Chosen.” The thought of all this is disturbing me, though it’s nothing new. I just can’t imagine how many are out there right now, and it’s only a matter of time before they spread to other cities.

“How are you going to stop them, dear? There’s only so much you can do.” She’s right. No matter what we do, there will always be Bhaal assassins or cultists on every corner. We can at least try to locate the source of them… The ‘breeding cow’ for instance. Maybe there’s more than just that, maybe there’s another source.

“When the sun rises, we’ll discuss the next steps with our companions. Either Gale or myself will stay here with Jenevelle.” I hear footsteps tiptoeing down the stairs, and I realize it’s Gale. He usually comes down around this time for a glass of milk and then back to bed, but this wasn’t exactly the case here.

“Baby, what are you doing up? Stress-walking in the middle of the night, huh?” He seems genuinely concerned, and he knows this entire situation is eating me alive.

“Yes…Yes I am.”

“Come back to bed and we can talk about it.” His voice is sleepy yet so gentle, and the smile on his face brings me a glimmer of joy. I smile back and follow him up the stairs to our room, where I basically tell him exactly what I told Tara. However, I started to fall asleep as I addressed my concerns and I didn’t even get to finish telling him everything that’s on my mind. Mmm. The numbness as the body falls into a slumber is so relaxing.

{find part 1 and 2 of my series on AO3! I will have 3 parts total. Check out the link below}

[letoasai]

Wishes

Things were overly complicated, this was no exception despite how it could have been mindlessly done without thought at all. I didn’t remember picking the bottle up, or how I instantly knew it was more than it seemed. Light as a feather but holding immeasurable power.

The magic lamp. The home of the genie. Was there more than one? Did that matter when I already held it in my hands.

It was pretty, but plain. Gold with little engravings etched into the metal that caught the light just right. There were no gaudy gems or impractical sized diamonds encrusting its shape. It was a magic item already, it didn’t need to appear to be worth more than it was when it was already priceless.

It was done on a whim, mostly believing it wouldn’t work with only a tiny voice inside me wishing it were real. No one was more surprised than me when I rubbed my hand against the lamp and a mist actually appeared.

At least I assume that was the case since I’d done this silly thing alone in the privacy of my own room. I watched the mist seem to move and twist and dance until a person was just there standing across from me. Their clothes flowing and somehow nothing I could have imagined while their body remained fit and their face just simply pretty. I couldn’t tell their gender from their androgynous features alone and somehow they were all the more lovely for it.

“Greetings temporary master who has discovered the key. Count your desires and make wishes three.”

Their voice was just as nice. It was the kind of thing I’d like to listen to often. The temptation to comment on them doing voice work for audio books was almost too great but I swallowed it down. That was likely a terrible first impression.

I was bad at first impressions. I talked too much, forgot other peoples names, laughed awkwardly. No, commenting on their voice first thing was probably weird.

“Hello.” I offered instead, sitting on the edge of my bed awkwardly, half wondering why I wasn't hiding inside my closet over the sudden magical display. This wasn’t the kind of thing that happened all the time but I was rooted to the spot. It was likely too late to run away anyway.

The genie just blinked, trying to figure out what was going on but they were supposed to be ancient right? They’d probably come across every response possible. It was the same thing I told myself when calling customer service somewhere and being afraid I sounded like an idiot. Those people had to have heard everything already.

“Hello…” The genie answered slowly. “You good or do we need to like… call someone?”

“I think i’m good. Haven’t freaked out yet so that’s a plus. How are you? Is it nice to be out of the lamp?”

After a beat the genie shrugged. “Kind of just is what it is.” I was half glad that they didn’t rhyme everything they said, that sounded exhausting. The greeting was enough, that part was cool.

I nodded, relieved on their behalf. “Okay. Do you like…want a drink or something? I have no idea what counts as manners when you accidentally summon a genie even when you were sorta trying to do that on purpose.”

“Okay, this is gonna be a long afternoon, i can tell.” The genie said and dropped down to sit beside me. It was weird, but only in the sense that they might have been the coolest person I’ve ever seen and what was I supposed to do now that we were sitting side by side.

“Sorry?”

“Nah, don’t worry about it. You still got three wishes, so what’ll it be?”

My mind was blank, a sea of absolutely nothing and the places where thoughts once lived was vacant. “Dunno.”

I felt a little less like an idiot when the genie shrugged. “That happens a lot. Being put on the spot and all. Take your time but like, not forever, okay?”

“Right.” I agreed because what else could I do? “This is so weird. I probably have thousands of wishes but here you are and I got nothing. Nothing feels right.”

“Does it need to?”

I shrugged. “I mean I guess not but this is one of those once in a lifetime opportunities, right? You can’t just ask for a sandwich or something.”

“Pretty sure someone has before.” The genie commented after a moment of thought. “They were an idiot.”

That thought went back to the genie probably having already seen every response before. My goal now became, not being an idiot in the genie’s eyes by the time they left.

“I’m sure magic sandwiches are awesome, but it’s not exactly what I'm going for.”

“Fair.” The genie agreed, playing with a bracelet they wore to pass the time. “What kind of wishes have you wanted in the past?”

“Well…” I folded my feet under me as I sat, turning a little to face them. “Can I give you a couple examples without it being like… haha, there’s your wish?”

The genie snorted. “Yeah, it’s kinda late and I'm not in the mood for word games so sure, we’ll confirm before calling a wish legit.”

I nodded again, thankful for an understanding magical genie of the lamp and not one bitter about the job title. “I’m willing to bet the biggest wishes are personal ones. Money. Health. Expensive stuff.”

“For sure.”

I make a face at that one. It would have been nice to be wrong. “I can’t lie and say that’s not appealing but this is three magic wishes we’re talking about. You can’t just wish for a billion dollars, can you? Does the wording matter? Would it be better to wish to always be financially stable? To never be in need of money again? That last one sounds like it could be taken the wrong way too. I dunno what kind of clarity wishes need.”

“Clarity?” The genie glances at you.

“You know, like in cartoons where some guy wishes for a million bucks and gets a million caribou instead.”

That made the genie snort. “As hilarious as that would be, wishes are about intentions. They’re your desires, I'm just fulfilling them.”

I sighed, knowing that just complicated matters. “I don’t think wishes are that simple. Spending a wish on myself feels selfish but trying to spend a wish on everyone seems like it could backfire way too easily.”

“You’re an over thinker, aren’t you?”

“Yes.” I confirmed with another nod. “Like what if i wished for no more cancer? That sounds incredible but what about all the innovations we’ve had as a society from that research? How many other things have been cured? I’m sure i’m not the first person to get magic wishes and no one before me ever thought to do that? I dunno if i’m that optimistic or that conceited.”

“Probably just an overthinker.”

“Probably.” I agreed. “But what if that somehow just made things worse? Like what if a thousand years ago there was the ‘whatever’ disease and someone wished it away and that was freaking amazing. It was gone and everyone was happy but science and biology was like, hey that’s not cool, now we gotta come up with something else and that’s how cancer started.”

The genie shifted to get more comfortable, putting a pillow on their lap to lean on. “I get where you’re coming from but that didn’t happen.”

“Oh sure, I'm just saying I can barely give someone a compliment without freezing. I don’t know if I could handle the added pressure of trying to do something nice for the whole world only to have it backfire so spectacularly.”

“No one would really know it was you.”

“I’d know and I can't have that on my conscience.” I grumbled.

“Fair enough.”

“Then there’s things you hope for and wish for and you can’t just get them easily.”

“Like what?” the genie asked. “Magic is pretty freaking sweet.”

I hummed, a small smile pulling at my lips. “Like what if i wished for global warming to be fixed before we totally ruin our own planet? If it was just fixed the world would freak out because… how!? Then all the people who don’t even believe in global warming would be insufferable.”

“Is this over-thinking something you’ve had to deal with a long time?”

“All my life.”

“Hm, intriguing. Go on.”

I shifted a little, fingers clasping and unclasping. “Then there’s you.”

“What about me?”

“I dunno? Is this some kind of Aladdin thing where you're trapped? Am i supposed to free you? I could not have that on my conscience either. Not freeing someone if i had the chance but like, i don’t know the genie origin story, i don’t know if freeing you is objectively a good or bad thing.”

They held up a hand. “Well, let me stop you there. This is just kind of a job. I get how it looks to you and that is my lamp and all but i don’t live in there twenty four-seven. This is just like a side thing that happens every now and then. It’s not a big deal. Usually it’s just a minor inconvenience before I get on with my own life.”

“Oh, sorry…” I couldn’t help but wonder if I messed up their plans with some other mythological creatures. A movie night, or a bowling club of magical beings.

They shook their head. “Nah, I rarely get this kind of introspection, it’s kind of amusing to listen to. You can go ahead.”

“Oh, okay…” I mumbled. “I’m just not trying to be on the list of like… top ten worst people you ever had to grant wishes to.”

The genie snorted and actually gave me a rather fond look I didn’t know what to do with. “You wouldn’t even make the top one hundred. What else you got?”

“Uh…” I scrambled to think of something. “The selfish stuff that couldn’t be explained. I could wish to lose weight but would that just be temporary? I like cake, you know? I could wish for good health but that would just enable bad habits. I could completely wish for things for other people but I know deep down I'd resent not doing a little something for myself. I could wish for books but it seems lame to wish for something I could go get myself.”

“I almost wish I could look in your head and watch how you get from one topic to another.”

“It’s the anxiety.” I hummed at that. “It’s not even a habit to plan for the worst case scenario at this point, it’s just a way of life. Anxiety blows but I'm not sure what I would do without it anymore.”

“I don’t really get anxiety.”

“I admire you for that one. Just take my word for it, it sucks. That said, I'm aware of my flaws. Dunno if i could just magic them away or magic them better.”

“What kind of flaws?”

I could list them off immediately. “Anxiety. Self doubt. No motivation. Fear of loneliness. Fear of change. Procrastination. Hoping things I don't like or want will just go away when I know they won’t.”

The genie rested their chin on their fist. “That’s a lot to be aware of.”

“Yeah well, change is hard. There’s also a fear of being too annoying. Am I annoying you? Do you have somewhere you’d rather be?”

They shrugged. “Not annoying and time is kind of a different concept for me than it is for you. Don’t worry about that. There’s nothing wrong with you trying to work out your wishes. More people should.”

“Probably easier when people can just do it immediately without putting too much thought into it.” I sighed.

“Meh,” The genie shrugged again. “Maybe easier but that doesn’t mean the wishes always work out for those people. They might consider you the wise one for over-thinking.”

“Doubt it but that’s kind to say. A lot of wishes come back to money. Things I could just do or get myself if I had money. They say money doesn’t buy happiness and I think that’s true, but it does buy hobbies. It buy’s your rent and your groceries. It buys you the security to not be constantly worried about every little thing. I’m not so sure unhappiness and money really go together at all. It’s not money’s fault that people who have it are unhappy. With money they could do anything. Travel or buy stuff, or support causes they like.”

“All of that is true.”

“True, but greedy. I try not to be greedy but there’s a difference between greedy and in need. I could make money as easily as I could go buy my own stuff but it’s hard.” I muttered. “The system is hard and it applies to everyone but I feel like too much pressure has me cracking long before everyone else.”

“You’re not alone with that feeling.”

That was true enough. “I know. I’m not the only one who feels that way at all, but that still doesn’t mean I know what to do with it. You can’t escape being an adult and all the stuff that comes with it.”

“It’s part of growing up.”

“Wish sucks as much as anxiety.” I said. “There’s a part of me who’d like to wish for magic of my own but what does that even mean? I wouldn’t be able to show anyone. I’d either be an internet sensation or a lab rat for defying the laws of…whatever non magic falls under. Is there a point in having something you can’t use all the time? How would I explain it? I can’t just throw you under the bus and say a genie gave me powers.”

The genie laughed. “There would be an uptick in people looking for us for sure.”

“And that makes me wonder what the hell other people even wish for? Is it always personal wishes that go unnoticed? I don’t even know how a person would wish for a car and then explain where it came from to their insurance.”

“People don’t usually think that far ahead.”

I flopped back against my bed with a sigh. “Normally these kinds of things feel very… fictional protagonist. You know? Find the genie, make an impossible wish and now there’s some kind of domino effect of adventure that awaits them, but i’m not protagonist material. I’m more…someone the protagonist walks past in the first episode, never to be seen again.”

The genie relaxed beside me, hands behind their head. “Would be a better story if the protagonist met you though. Sometimes they’re dumb and need someone who over thinks on their team. It would probably save them a lot of time.”

That pulled a laugh from me. “What would you wish for?”

“It’s a lame answer after all this but I just have magic, you know? I’m not particularly bound by it. Sure I gotta answer the summons when I'm called but it’s not under lock and key or anything. I guess you could just think I take wishes for granted when I can answer my own at any time.”

“Nah, I bet you know your limitations. I doubt you’re breaking your own rules and raising the dead.” I paused. “That is against the rules right? Raising the dead?”

“Yep.”

“Thought so.”

The genie snickered. “Well let’s take a look at the big picture. You do have three wishes. It’s okay to be a little selfish with one of them, and maybe help out some people you know with another. No one’s putting ‘solving world hunger’ on your shoulders.”

“That’s true. If wishes could solve everything we’d be living in some kind of perfect world, and even then someone would probably find a way to mess it up with a different wish.”

“I think you have a wise grasp on humanity. Good intentions are still good intentions though. You wanna give a wish a shot?”

I heaved a sigh and nodded. “Yeah, i guess i have a few in mind. You wanna hang out when you're not doing the wish thing some time? You’re a great sound board.”

The genie looked surprised for only a second and chuckled, “Sure, why not? This has been unexpectedly fun. Why don’t you focus on yourself for the first wish?”

“Okay.” There was still so much oddly placed dread swirling in my gut but how badly could I mess things up? To the best of my knowledge, wishes hadn’t wrecked the world before. My harmless ones would probably do very little in the grand scheme of things. “Okay. I wish…”

[withoutatrace-pkmn]

off-screen rp

“… so next year, I intend to approach Raihan in order to see if we could collaborate on a pride parade for Hammerlocke! How fantastic would that be?”

Holly hummed her agreement. She’d never shared anything close to Demetria’s energy, not when they were children and certainly not now. But it was nice to hear what she had to say anyway - to have a nice, normal chat about normal things, to pretend her own life wasn’t a constant carnival of disorder.

That said…

“So,” and here Demetria’s tone turned serious, “how are things with you?”

Of course she couldn’t avoid it forever. The fact that what was meant to be a simple trip to Sinnoh turned into a full blown monster hunt.

“Fine. I haven’t seen… it since the pic I snapped yesterday. I’ve just been following its trail.”

“You don’t have to engage with it Holly. You are not obligated to solve this region’s problems.”

“I’m the hero of Kalos, Demetria. Feel like it would be a bit of a dick move to just leave ‘em to it.”

She heard it then. The sound that had been playing on loop in her head since she’d first heard it the night before. The cry of a wild pokemon, or- or something like a wild pokemon. The sound of shrieking static, and breaking glass.

Holly tensed. The sharp intake of breath on the other side of the phone told her Demetria had done the same.

“That was it, was it not?”

“Yeah. Yeah, that was it.”

“Holly…”

“I’m ok. Talk later, alright?”

She hung up before Demetria could argue, and started moving forward more cautiously than before.

Her hand tightened involuntarily around Bubble’s pokeball, her finger held firmly over the release button. If the gems covering this thing’s body were anything to go by, it was likely a rock type - hopefully her Greninja would be the perfect opponent to it.

Stalking through tall bushes now, easing her way through the Sinnoh wilderness, Holly’s heart pounded in her ears. The strange cry came again, and she was stunned momentarily, wrestling with her own instincts - to run, to hide, to destroy -

A few more hesitant steps, and she finally saw it again.

It hadn’t gotten any less disturbing. Stood on two legs, stooped over, arms dangling gently from its sides. It’s back was to her, exposing the writhing mass of tendrils that emerged seamlessly from a back that seemed otherwise covered in some kind of strange black hide. But Holly wasn’t too disconcerted by this. If anything, she was glad it faced away from her.

At least this time she didn’t have to look at its eyes.

And maybe she wouldn’t need to endanger Bubble after all. The thing hadn’t noticed her after all. Her other hand reached slowly into her bag, pulling out a quick ball.

Wait. Wait for the perfect moment. Hold your breath. Then-

A Staravia took sudden flight from a nearby tree. The creature startled. And Holly threw the quick ball.

It connected, thudding against the creature’s back. It tensed immediately, before being consumed by the light emerging from the pokeball, and disappearing inside.

It shook once. Twice.

Holly held her breath.

And the ball cracked open again.

The thing stumbled away, turning to face it’s would-be capturer. And those eyes were turned on her once again.

Holly gasped, hiding her face on instinct. It didn’t help, she knew it wouldn’t - there was no where on Earth she could have escaped that gaze. Those eyes staring into her, and out of her, and-

The pressure lifted, and Holly gasped as the creature turned tail and fled once again.

“… shit.”

Another failed capture. And with her luck, if she didn’t catch that thing soon someone would get hurt. Or killed.

She gritted her teeth in frustration, before glancing into the bag that hung by her side.

“fuck, I don’t want to have to use this…”

The masterball had made its way to the top of the pile of pokeballs inside, taunting her with its violet hue that reminded her all too much of the monster’s terrible eyes. As a rule, Holly was against masterballs, against the concept of stripping any Pokemon of their free will in a bid to capture them. You could capture any Pokemon if you could only earn its respect.

But if she was in a race against time - considering she didn’t know what this thing could do, how much damage it could cause - well, maybe her hand would be forced.

[taylorkellyreporting]

i hope no one minds if i liveblog this bitch: ncis: hawai’i from 1x15

been a hot minute since i’ve watched this show but i’m back 🫶🏻

— 1x15

gracie is being so rude to jesse ☹️

oh shit??

tennant better pick up her phone omg

WOAH

lucy facing her fear of the ocean for jesse 🥹 that’s family fr

aloe vera really can be used for anything damn

i bet the boat’s gonna be empty

well.

i feel like this rebecca woman is gonna have something to do with this..it seems like she’s hiding something

“if someone i knew were in trouble, i’d want you to be the one looking” 🥹

“not you” oh shit they’re probably gonna use grace against jesse

i knew that woman wasn’t telling the truth

WAIT JESSE STARTING THAT FIRE WAS COOL AS HELL

at least rebecca isn’t in on it

damn jesse got his ass kicked

“she’s mine” that had no business sounding hot

lucy and pike going with jesse aw🫂

tenant and jesse’s friendship is something that can be so personal

— 1x16

“i know a guy” and it’s gonna be his dad lmao

oof the fight between kai and his dad was rough

not daniel trying to control what college alex is going to…jane better shut that shit down

oh my God that kill was brutal

jane’s facial expressions while lucy’s snapping at kate are sending me

lmao poor kate she can’t win in this situation

kai’s being so damn obvious it’s only a matter of time before he’s caught

…or fired i guess lmao

i can’t wait for the chef to find out who kai really is

daniel being pissed that jane doesn’t know what’s going on is so stupid cause it’s not like he’s trying to tell her. he just magically wants her to know 🙄

“she doesn’t know you like i do” aw

DAD?!

that was insane

— 1x17

woahhhh

ERNIE???

poor kate she’s trying her best and i feel bad for her but i get where lucy’s coming from too

well shit

mike bowen?!

“sometimes there’s no nuance, it’s just right and wrong” hm i don’t think she’s just talking about the ransom anymore

OH SHIT

“what a jackass” ernie’s face pls 😭

kacy ☹️

“we were just about to rock” what the helldjgjgjfns

wow i didn’t see that coming

i love ernie so much 🥹

the hug aww

— 1x18

so i ended up having to watch the first part of the crossover cause i was hella confused 🙃 the og ncis isn’t actually that bad i’m kinda surprised

he’s GONE?!

lmfaoooo they didn’t even know about the rumors

matching tattoos 😭😭

this woman is terrible at her job

well his body’s for sure gone

i love jessica and ernie’s dynamic

this episode’s kinda boring

seems like whatever happened in orlando wasn’t as great as everyone’s making it out to be

— 1x18

“i haven’t had a baby in about ten years” “daniel, you never actually had a baby” pls 😭

oh no, alex :(

ernie’s so sweet, i love him

the hawaiian lion king?? 😭

PEPPER LMFAOOO

jane’s friendship with jesse 🥹🫶🏻

pepper’s so freaking cute

jane has really good kids, they’re so lovely

ernie loves lucy so much 🥹

lucy and jesse teaming up to tease kai pls

damn jane kicked ass

aww alex visiting his baby brother

kai and melanie are so cute

baby nate 🥹

— 1x19

what the hell?

lmaooo poor kai all he wants is to eat his sandwich

jesse looks so fine

lil wayne 😭

the woman’s probably holding blake hostage

oh lucy was gay panicking bad and kate loved it 😭

3 dead people?? what’s her issue…

his wife is dead ☹️

“because i loved you, kate” my God.

oh i love this for ernie

lucy’s def not over kate

lmao poor jane all she wants is a bath

i love kai so much he’s such a good guy

— 1x20 & 1x21

omg he stabbed him

jesse’s british accent is so bad pls

jesse sense? this show is so unserious 😭

“do you think these shoes go with this shirt?” “ the question is, do you?” lmaooo

pike’s so freaking funny

he meant a date 😭

oof kacy in this interrogation

i knew that wasn’t gonna end well

woahhh they both died? omg

these last two eps are kinda uninteresting

we deserved to see more jealous lucy before her and kate got back together

OH SHIT

“oh God, i wasn’t being literal” 😭

everyone cheering for lucy and kate aw 🥹🫶🏻

[deadendsave]

Delilah Hodges’ Journal (3)

1: It’s been a year. I still haven’t been able to contact my parents. I eventually gave up and accepted the fact that they’re probably never coming back for me. I really hope they’re still alive. If I knew they were, I’d be relieved. But I don’t think I could ever forgive them for leaving me for so long. I’m trying to not resent them, but it’s hard.

2: 18th birthday. I made it to adulthood. I remember I used to get so excited about birthdays, now it’s hard to get through them. It’s not fair that I get to keep growing older, and Quinn’s always gonna be 15. I know she wouldn’t want me feeling this way, but I can’t help it. I’m tired of being guilty for having these feelings. I’m guilty because I feel like I should be happier. I don’t know why I do this to myself.

3: Quinn, my old camp, my parents, the bar looters. It’s all changed me so much. I miss being happy. I try to pretend to be in front of Todd and Linda. I don’t wanna seem ungrateful for everything they do for me. I slip up sometimes though, Linda notices the most. I always tell her I’m fine, I’m just tired.

4: On a more positive note, a lot’s happened since I filled up my last journal. I’ve read so many books. Some were great, some were… not so great. Most of the “classics” are boring to me. There’s still a lot of reading to do, I’ve barely scratched the surface of all that the bookstore has to offer. I’ve also been (very slowly) improving my hunting skills. Still not great, but I’m getting there. I learned how to drive Todd’s truck. He won’t let me drive without him being in the passenger seat because he’s super protective over it.

5: Todd and Linda surprised me by cleaning out the apartment above the bookstore. I have my own space now! No more sleeping on the couch. It’s got water and electricity, it’s a little faulty though. The lights flicker a lot. But still! My own place! I’m gonna start decorating with all of the time times things I’ve collected.

6: Someone showed up at the bar this morning. For a minute, I thought it was my parents. Nope. Just some guy covered in blood. He said his name was Mitch. He’s not much older than me. He’s the youngest person I’ve come across since… never mind. So far he’s been nice, I don’t trust him though. I want to, but people pretend to be good all the time. What if he’s just pretending?

7: Great, he’s gonna be staying with us. I don’t think that’s a good idea. It would be wrong to just kick him out on the street, but still. He said he was alone. He could be lying. What if he has friends and they’re just waiting for their signal to barge in and attack us. I know Todd is watching him like a hawk but I’m still not comfortable. He could be just like those people that showed up last year.

8: Last year, a young couple came to the bar pretending they needed help. They actually just wanted to take everything we had, including our home. What Todd had to do was terrible, but he didn’t have a choice. The man grabbed me and said he wanted to “keep me.” I felt so disgusted. We would’ve helped them with whatever they needed if they would’ve just asked. I’m scared Mitch is gonna be just like them.

9: I’ve been avoiding Mitch as much as possible this past week. I don’t want to come off as a bitch, I could be nicer. The old me would’ve been, but things change. Linda’s been trying to ask him all about his life, he says there’s nothing worth talking about. What is he hiding?

10: I’m not as good as keeping up with journaling anymore. Here’s an update though. Turns out, Mitch is actually pretty cool. I’m still hesitant to get too close, but he’s a nice friend to have around. I enjoy his company. He found an old guitar, he’s been playing songs for me. He’s not that bad. Plus, I’m realizing he’s kinda cute.

11: Mitch knocked on my door last night, said he couldn’t sleep. I let him in my apartment, and we sat and talked on the balcony all night. At first, it was just awkward small talk. Then he asked me why I had so many ocean-themed things. I told him all about my fascination with the ocean and marine life. I got a little embarrassed and apologized for nerding out and talking so much. He said it was cool though. I think he was just being nice.

12: Mitch came back over this morning, said he found a few things I might like while he was out hunting with Todd. He handed me a tiny lighthouse statue. I wanted to cry, it was just such a sweet gesture. It meant he was actually listening to me. He also handed me a box. Inside was a bracelet kit. That’s when I really had a hard time fighting back the tears. He said he figured I might want to make a new one since the one on my wrist was so old. I feel like that was Quinn’s way of letting me know it’s okay to let him in.

13: I said I’d only wear a new one if he made it and pinky promised me to always wear the one I make him. He laughed at first, but we sat down and made each other bracelets. I took the one Quinn made me off. Mitch was right, it was getting old. I didn’t want to end up breaking it or losing it. I’ll keep it somewhere safe.

14: I told him all about my parents and Quinn. It was hard to talk about them out loud. Mitch told me about his mom though. I can’t even imagine what it was like to have to do that to her. I could see the pain in his eyes as he was talking about it. He looked like he was reliving it. I didn’t know what to say so I just held his hand hoping it would help. I don’t know if it did though.

15: Mitch took me out during the day to practice my shooting skills. I kept getting frustrated, but he was really patient with me. When we were walking back home we saw something in the distance. I got freaked out. It looked like a person. When Mitch went to go investigate, there was nothing there.

16: Mitch surprised me with a turntable and some records there were in (almost) perfect condition, just a little dusty. He was so excited, he looked like he couldn’t wait to give them to me. We set up the turntable and put on some music. I made him dance with me. We both sucked, but we didn’t care. He leaned in and kissed me. I was nervous but it felt right. For the first time in what felt like forever, I felt content.

17: Before Mitch, i couldn’t really wrap my head around the whole love thing. It just seemed so complicated. But i get it now. It’s nothing like what I’ve read in books. It’s more simple than that but it’s real and it’s raw. It’s the warm, comforting feeling I get when I’m with him. It doesn’t have to be anything else. That’s enough for me.

dialogue note, delilah’s apartment:

Mitch: This scar makes me ugly.

Delilah: Hey, at least you’re still alive. Plus I think it makes you look kinda badass.

Mitch: Badass? I look like one of the sick.

Delilah: Well, I don’t think you do. And you’re not ugly! Not that looks really should matter that much anymore. I don’t know why we still care about things like that. It’s kind of silly when you think about it.

Mitch: Thanks, but I know you’re just saying that to make me feel better.

Delilah: I’m not! I think you’re beautiful. I really mean it.

Mitch: Oh, so you think… I’m beautiful? 😏

Delilah: Shut the fuck up! Don’t make me regret saying that.

[temsikfates]

Relationships

Ok so I decided to make a post for the main relationships in this blog. If I forgot someone, just let me know! I’m not gonna add the AUs here because it would made things even more messy than they already are adskjdkj

Yomiel (Shades)

Jowd | fourminutesbefore (Friend)

“I guess I can consider Jowd my friend, despite all the shit I did to him. He forgave me and we both are trying to deal with the awful memories from that terrible timeline. I owe him a lot. I feel like I’ll forever owe him for everything I did. He says he forgives me, but I don’t feel like this is enough. I think my debt to him will never be completely paid, but I’m trying my best.”

Cat!Sissel | catofkismet/phantompets (Best Friend)

“My best friend in the entire world is a cat. Call me crazy, but that’s the truth. He’s the only one I can talk to about my traumas from the past timeline and he’s been helping me a lot.”

Missile | fourminutesbefore/phantompets/ghostlymissile (Friend)

“I’m not a dog person and honestly, dogs makes me feel nervous, but this particular one? I like him. He helped Sissel to avert my fate, so I owe him my life too.”

Apollo Justice | taiyodoroki (Friend)

“Apollo is really nice and we have a lot in common. First, he appreciates red. Got my respect. He also loves cats and is a nerd so thumbs up. He is also very nice to me.”

Apollo Justice | aptlyattorney (Friend)

A lawyer I met when I was talking about cats. I ended up telling him about my secret because he seemed to know I was lying. Must be a lawyer thing I guess, since it’s part of their profession to detect when someone is lying or hiding facts. He seems nice and has a good taste for suits.

Koven | spiritkat (Friend)

“I’ve met this kitten accidentally and I already love him. He reminds me a lot of Sissel and he’s also willing to help me. I can’t have enough kitty friends, the more the better!”

Kamila | fourminutesbefore (Unofficial niece figure)

“Kamila…. What do I have to say about this poor girl whose life I tormented so much in a past timeline? I feel terrible for what I did to her. I’m trying to atone for everything I did to her. She seems to like me, I guess. Guess I’m an awkward uncle figure to her, apparently.”

Selena Dean | hackerdean (Pupil/Unofficial niece figure)

“Met this girl one day in a coffee shop while waiting for a client to show up. She seems to be into programming too and likes cats. We have a very nice chat. She seems to look up to me as a mentor. Guess I got another awkward niece figure.”

Connor | bambino-muses (Friend)

“This is the Android that was sent by CyberLife to work with the detectives in the PD. Really innocent. Sissel is very fond of him and I like him too. I’m really curious to study about his programming.”

Cabanela | nooothinglikeme (Grudge)

“Ah, the inspector… He still annoys me a lot. I haven’t forgiven him, but Sissel says I should try to forgive him and move on. And even though I know she’s right… I don’t know if I’m ready yet. The inspector should also forgive me, this go both ways. I dunno how the fuck he found out about the timelines, but it seems it has something to do with the multiverses I recently found out were real.”

Kaname Date/Saito Sejima | psyncin-in-the-restrain (Awkward Friend)

“Met this guy while walking on the streets once. Seems to be a new detective in the precint, working with the local detectives. Said he came from Japan and seems to be working on a big case. He’s a bit of a werid guy and I had a weird feeling about him. Maybe it’s me being paranoid or just my trust issues alerting me to be careful, but I’m definitely curious about him. I guess I can consider him a friend now. He’s nice towards me and Sissel and he respects our relationship, so I guess I can trust him.”

Manipulator Yomiel (Shard)

Seluna | garounthropy/silenthcwl (Close Friend/Crush)

“We started out in a bad mood, but then we turned out to be friends. She reached a hand out to me when no else would. She���s… been doing a lot for me. More than anyone else ever did. I guess I am developing feelings for her, but I think it’s just my grief that’s making me project Sissel on her… I’m still confused about my feelings for her, but I hope this doesn’t ruin our friendship.”

Cat!Sissel | catofkismet /phamtompets (Best Friend)

“My best friend. He’s been beside me for years and has been my only companion and the only one I could talk to. Too bad cats can’t talk. I love him so much…”

Apollo Justice | taiyodoroki (Friend)

“I like this kid. I’ve been trying to teach him how to shoot people. He’s shot that inspector twice. I’m proud of him.”

Jowd | fourminutesbefore (Enemy/Victim)

“Ah, Jowd, I hope you’re enjoying your spot in your prison cell. I make sure to visit you everyday to see if you’re suffering properly. I’ll make sure you pay for what you did to me.”

Cabanela | nooothinglikeme (Enemy/Victim)

“This bastard inspector always like to get in the way of my plans. I killed him once and I’d kill him as many times as needed.”

Alfendi Layton | twiceminded (Victim)

“This one’s an interesting case. He’s intriguing. He reminds me ot that bastard inspector in white, and he’s also a man of the law so another reason for me to dislike him. Right now, I’m just toying with him, seeing how far I can push him…”

Bluemiel | fourminutesbefore (Enemy/Victim)

“This one’s a shameful alternate. I can’t even consider him an alternate. How can he not feel the need for vengeance for the people who destroyed our lives? He’s weak. He’s pathetic. And I hate him.”

Sissel

Alma | celebratorysoul (Close Friend)

“Alma’s the adorable wife of Detective Jowd. We have much in common and lots of interesting stuff to talk about. She’s helped me distract myself and feel better when that terrible incident at the park happened.”

Larry | itsgottabethebutz (Friend)

“We met once in a very hot day and we drank a limonade together. Despite initially flirting with me, he quickly understood I’m engaged and he’s really nice towards me! We’re both artists and I love it! Larry is a very fun guy to be around and very respectful too. I really want him and Yomiel to be friends too. Yomiel needs more friends in his life to distract himself.”

Kaname Date/Saito Sejima | psyncin-in-the-restrain (Friend)

“A very nice guy I met in a Market Fair! He also is an awkward friend of Yomiel’s. I guess an awkward friend is better than nothing! He’s a really nice guy and I really want to get to know him better. I really hope Yomiel can get along with him. Saito seems so lonely and he could use a friend, same to Yomiel. Just hope Yomiel stops with his silly jealousness towards him.

Teenmiel

Clive Dove | clivedoveplblog (Second Best Friend/Classmates)

“Clive is my other friend besides Sissel. It’s weird how we came to be friends, but I like him. He loves to tease me, but since it’s in a friendly way and not in a mean way like the bullies, I don’t really mind it. He’s a bit mysterious sometimes, but he’s fun to be around.”

TeenSissel

Clive Dove | clivedoveplblog (Friend/Classmates)

“Clive is Yomiel’s friend, so he’s my friend too. He spends more time with Yomiel, but we also do some shenanigans together.”

[danganronpasurvivoraskblog]

Want for Justice.

Thanks for contacting me so quickly.

Well, we didn’t really contact you. We gathered everyone here, told them the situation and then just...waited.

Yeah, we were ready for you this time.

Good, good. I take it that means you’ve had a look at my big contract then, huh?

...

...

...

By now everyone should be aware of the situation. So, I gotta ask...How we all feeling?

Honestly...?

REALLY CONFUSED! What is going on!?

Hahaha...Yep, that’s about the reaction I expected.

I just think it’s some freakish coincidence. Komaru, Toko and Akeru came to the states to meet Yodogawa in the first place...

It was to meet with him and discuss that we had taken custody of Akeru but...I never imagined it’d be like this.

Let me get this straight 404...Seishi Yodogawa. HE’S who you want to go after?

Believe me...If I had the choice, I’d love to do SO much more than that. Problem is, given the CEO’s circumstances, that’s more than a little difficult.

What do you mean?

Seishi Yodagawa and Emilia Feng share one thing in common. Neither have made a public appearance in many ages. Yodogawa’s last was 3 years ago.

Ever since his company developed that fancy-schmancy hologram tech, all of his public appearances have been made using it.

And obviously, I can’t attack a hologram. So I’ve been trying to track him down. 

What do we know about Seishi Yodogawa so far?

Not an awful lot that really stands out. In Japan, he was born to a pretty wealthy family, and started his career as a Mystery Novel Author. He even attended Precepts Peak Academy because of his skill.

But then later on, he had a very drastic career change. He got more into modern technology, and eventually went on to found LegionTech.

Assuming that he is Akeru’s father, that interest in tech likely came from Shinitani Yozora, or some other source.

...

But I still don’t understand whatever this mission of yours is. Are you absolutely sure that this is the right guy?

I agree. You’re making some pretty major threats here 404.

He’s the CEO of a multimillion dollar company, so yes, he’s obviously got SOME things he would like to hide from the public...But what could he be hiding that would make him a target for ERR0RM3SS4GE?

The way I see it, Yodogawa’s a good guy. He’s even got a good sense of humor from the way Makoto described it.

Not to mention his inventions are changing the world. His innovations in AI, the hologram technology, the creation of Noxus...

Yeah, exactly. So? What terrible terrible thing could he have done? Is he dodging taxes? Funding fascists?

...

...404?

Let me put it this way...What you’ve said about Yodogawa is correct, and that he’s a nice guy but...Yodogawa isn’t really my true target.

Huh?

What?

What the hell are you talking about!? Why would you give Boss and co. tickets to see Yodogawa if he wasn’t the target?

Unfortunately, telling you the truth of the situation is a bad move for several reasons. I doubt you’d believe me, and even if you did, the truth would be far too overwhelming at this point.

Then what do you propose?

Hm...I think it’s better if I SHOW you.

Show us? Wait...how?

Remember how I said that I’d been trying to track Yodogawa down? I haven’t had much luck. LegionTech’s security is run on the same AI program that most of their tech is. Because of that, it analyses my movements and predicts my next action if I try to get into the mainframe, immediately coming up with a solution to stop me. It’s like I’m in a hacking battle against 10 other real people.

Is the AI really that advanced?

If only Chihiro were here. I imagine he’d be impressed. Then again, since Chihiro is the Ultimate Programmer, he could probably do it and better.

I’m sure he could. But the point is, even though I wasn’t able to locate my target himself, I found his home in Manhattan. 

Ok? So...what’s the plan?

I’ll be blunt...I need you to break into Yodogawa’s home.

Huh!?

WHAT!? Break in!?

Don’t worry. The building itself doesn’t have the tightest security. There are no guards and really only a door alarm, which I easily disabled. All you’ll have to do is walk up to the gate, get over it and go inside. I’ve actually already done it myself.

And if Yodogawa catches us?

Didn’t you just hear him? 404 hasn’t been able to locate Yodogawa. If he’d been at home, he would have by now.

True. Yodogawa is never home. I’ve staked his house out for 168 hours straight and I got nothing.

So he doesn’t come home the entire week...I guess that’s reasonably good chances.

But why are we breaking into Seishi’s property in the first place?

...Because the things you’ll see in that hellhole...Oooh boy.

404? That sounds really ominous, wh-what are you talking about...?

I know how it sounds...Then how about this? I’ll give you a little bit of a motivation boost.

And what do you mean by THAT?

Let’s just say that if you do this, then you can discard this laptop or put it back where you found it. The next time we meet, it will be in person. With my REAL face.

*The screen goes black

...

He disconnected.

You really think he’s gonna go through with that?

Whether 404 keeps his promise on that front or not is the least of our worries.

Ok. So, are we doing this?

I’ll admit, my curiosity is piqued. Yodogawa certainly doesn’t seem dangerous, but 404 is set on thinking he is.

While I don’t really trust either party, it wouldn’t hurt us to at least check to see if he’s right.

So we’re breaking into Yodogawa’s house after all?

Looks like we’ll need your help again, Four and Maya.

Sure thing. But I think if this info is important, it’s best that at least some of you come with us.

Actually, I have something for this situation. We can connect it to the laptop while we still have it.

What is it?

*Four takes a box out of her pocket and shows it to the group.

It’s a special device that we were able to swipe from Fang Inc a short while ago after all their special tech started getting transferred out of the company. It’s a small camera you hang over your ear.

It processes a live feed to any monitor it’s connected to, so you can see and hear whatever’s going on.

Maya and I can bring up the rear, but it would be far more ideal if only one person were to head inside. That way, the rest of the group can run in for backup if something goes wrong.

Meanwhile, we can hang hear and watch the proceedings on the laptop. Good plan.

But that means we’ll need to assign someone the mission, right? Who’s gonna be our fall guy?

Not me pal. I’ve had enough Black Ops to last me a while. I’m much more suited to loud, explosive violence.

If things go badly, we’ll need an out. This could very quickly turn from a stealth mission to a rescue mission if we’re not careful. So we must be discreet. I suggest that I-

I’LL do it!

!!?

!!?

!!?

!!?

!!?

!!?

!!?

!!?

!!?

*Akeru’s sudden exclamation makes everyone widen their eyes at her.

You want discreet? You want stealth? Pick me! Let me handle it!

A-Are you sure...!?

Akeru, you can’t! This is dangerous!

I agree. You’d be all by yourself in enemy territory.

404 said there was little to no security, so why so nervous? Plus, it’s not like I can’t make my way around whatever comes my way.

And if something comes that you’re not prepared for? Like Mr Kuma for instance?

...I like those odds just fine.

Akeru!

I want you all to know this. This ISN’T a request!

Huh...!?

I WILL go...I MUST go...

You can’t-

BOSS!

!!?

I get that she’s your niece, but she KNOWS what she’s doing. Plus, you heard her. Her mind’s set.

It is.

Besides, it’s none of your business. You don’t tell her what to do; leave it to her PARENTS!

Akeru...

...

*She turns to Toko and Komaru.

Ground me, cut off my pocket money, do whatever it is you think is acceptable...But if you tell me I can’t do this, or that I should hold back, then I’m about to have a teenage rebellion!

...

...

Actually...I was going to tell you to think fast and kick ass and go do this thing.

...Oh...Really?

I’m not sure about this. Last time I asked you to steal something for me, you got captured.

But you rescued me. Not just from Osone, but from the past I was running from. And from the loneliness I felt after what Osone did.

I know...And I’ll do it as many times as I need to.

I won’t stop you Akeru, because I know exactly why you’re so serious about this. But I need to ask you this.

What will you do if you find out Yodogawa really is your father?

...

It depends.

Does it now?

If he’s not the man 404 thinks he is...Then I’ll do what we came here to do. I’ll reconcile with him and...explain how great my life is now that you two are my parents.

But if he’s the nasty criminal 404 makes him out to be, I’ll do what I have to...I’ll deal him SWIFT JUSTICE!

Atta girl.

*Komaru turns to Makoto and the others.

Let Akeru do it. There’s no better choice.

*sigh* After hearing that, I can barely argue.

In that case, we’re counting on you kid.

YESSS!

[phant0m-graves]

Beau felt kind of like a child doing this, she was sitting on the ground with a daisy in her hand playing with the petals and doing that ‘they love me/they love me not’ game that little girls play in the schoolyard, it was honestly embarrassing and she’d be mortified if either of her brothers saw her out here because the teasing would never end if they did. She didn’t get why she was so hung up on Clove, this girl who walked into her life that night at the diner and never left, she just didn’t get it. 

“Beau! Hey Beau!” speak and they shall appear Beau guessed, it was Clove, dressed just as pretty as she always is, with a plain pale pink cardigan buttoned in the front and a white tennis skirt with a pair of white and pink tennis shoes with scrunched down frilly socks. She skipped over, her strawberry blonde hair bouncing with her movements, it was in that style that made her look adorable, the crown of her hair pulled back with a ribbon with her curtain bangs framing her face perfectly. When she reached Beau she knelled down and smiled that pretty smile that she has, Beau smiled back.

“Hey Clove, how ya been? Haven’t seen you in a minute.” It was true Clove kind of disappeared for about a week before Ace, Beau’s brother, saw her in the market but he said when he tried to talk to her she freaked out and ran. Beau wasn’t sure what was going on with her but she looked physically fine, with no cuts or bruises, no dark circles under her eyes, and no excessive makeup to hide any of those things, she looked fine and normal.

“Oh, I’ve been good, sorry for like pulling a disappearing act last week something came up and my dad and I had to make an emergency trip back to Georgia.” Right, Cloves’ not from around here she's from Athens Georgia, Beau had been once and thought it was a stuffy college town with too many people and not enough space for all of them.

“Emergency? Everything alright, right? No one dead?” 

“Ha! No, no one dead, just some drama with my mother’s will we had to go back to talk to my aunts and the lawyers.” She took a deep breath. “My aunts are fighting us every step of the way with the will it's driving my dad up the wall, but that's whatever what have you been up to since I’ve been gone?”

“Um, not much, just the normal day-to-day stuff, you know?” Beau didn’t think she did, see Clove was probably the wealthiest kid in town so she didn’t really know what it was like to work two jobs at seventeen, well she didn’t know what it was like to even work one much less two. “Oh! Sam wanted me to ask you on a date for her.”

“Um… well… I’ll pass, I don’t date girls like that.”

“Girls like what?”

“You know snotty, stuck-up brats I guess.” Huh well that’s something new, Beau figured that Clove wouldn’t care about stuff like that but apparently, she does. Beau liked conversations like this, she learns so much about Clove and doesn’t even notice until later. 

“Eh, she’s not totally awful, she just doesn’t have the best awareness of herself.” Who was Beau kidding? Sam was terrible and she knew that about herself and never let anyone forget it. 

“Ha! She totally is… but whatever, she knows I’ll never go out with her, I think she just asks me out to get a reaction at this point, hey what time is it?” She looked at me with her green eyes that could stare into your soul.

“Um, one thirty I think let me check,” I pulled out my phone and looked at the screen, Clove got me this phone, my old one was pretty outdated and barely worked at this point. “Yeah, one thirty, you got somewhere to be, cher?”

“Crap! Oh! Um… I love you! Gotta go, I’ll see you later.” She lurched forward and kissed Beau on the lips before getting up and rushing away back the way she came from leaving Beau in a state of shock, she sat there not moving before she heard her mother calling for her at their house, she snapped up and rushed towards her house with a massive smile on her face ready to gush to her mom about Clove for probably the millionth time, but this time she had something big to tell her.