#little tasks for little townsfolk genre

[flannelepicurean]

Yo, hey, also, if you're an anxious and/or stressed LGBTQ+ person like myself, and like little games about tasks, like Stardew Valley or My Time at Portia or stuff like that, check out Hokko Life.

It's one of those cute little "do things" games, and there are some things about it that I really, really love:

In a lot of these games, there's a set town structure and cast of characters. In Hokko, there are some keystone elements. But each save file has a different "town area" map that you get to build and expand your little town into. There are two residents to begin with, other than you and the shopkeepers in the main town area (separate), and THOSE COULD BE DIFFERENT. From what I can tell, there are at least 4 possible starter residents, and you can get different combinations per save file.

The days are looooooooooong. This is different from Stardew, for example, where you can feel really pressed to "get everything done" in one day. In Hokko, you have PLENTY of time. And you have the option to take a li'l nap at your house if you want to, so you can skip 2 hours or 6 hours without losing the whole damn day. Or just...take a lil nap.

There are NO GENDER OPTIONS in character creator. You start with the same starter outfit, and have 100% of the starter customization options. Everyone calls you "they/them." A good number of the residents are "they/them." You are just...nonbinary/gender neutral/agender. Periodt.

You are the only humanoid. Everyone else is basically stuffed animals. The first folks you meet are a pink elephant who looks like she maybe has vitiligo and a giraffe with a general store who has extremely Dad Jokes Energy. There are all kinds of other interesting animal folks with different personalities. My game has a green emo/skater pig who seems like they might be a stoner and possibly vegan. Definitely cares about their carbon footprint.

Everything is SO CHILL. There's not really energy to manage or anything, you don't get hungry, you don't have to run around making sure you talk to everybody enough so you don't get less popular. Even if you fail a task for a resident...nothing bad happens. Or at least, that I can tell so far. Just like, whoops. Couldn't find that fish. Oh well. I can make you that paint, though. No worries. All good.

When you DO complete tasks, you get clothing items. And like...the first one I got was a "striped skirt" or something. And I was like, "Oh, that looks kinda-sorta-almost like a nonbinary pride flag. Cool." And then I got some yellow shoes, and a red jacket. And then a "Happy Knit Sweater," which was DEFINITELY ABSOLUTELY a trans pride flag pattern! And then a tee shirt with rainbow sleeves and a rainbow pocket? So like...THEY GIVE YOU LGBTQ+ PRIDE MERCH FOR YOUR LI'L NONBINARY PAL. And then I realized I very much had trans flag wallpaper in my house. 😂 I freaking love this.

You can MAKE YOUR OWN FURNITURE. There's a whole subset of customization and item creation where you can just...design your own furniture and decorative items from almost scratch. You unlock sets of shapes for the crafting & design table, and then you can go into a 3D design space and just...put some wooden spheres together however you want! Add a leaf shape! Put a brass "7" on it! Go crazy! And then you get to save your design and you can craft it again later if you want to make more, or sell them. It just...becomes an item in your game.

The music is super chill. Because of course.

The fishing system is good, for the way I like to play. It's very easy to see the fish, it's very easy to know when you need to "hook/catch," and following the system to reel in is easy to understand. It requires a little effort, it's not an auto-catch, but it's not stressful. It's a TASK, but not a HEADACHE. And you can do it without bait and still be fine.

There's a whole entire thing around catching butterflies. You can just frolic around all day in your pride-wear catching butterflies if you want. It's lovely.

You can save and exit at any point. SUPER IMPORTANT. Can't tell you how many times I've felt some stress about like, "AAAARRRGGGHHH, I have to get to a good spot to stop this Stardew day, or just start over again..." Nah. Hokko, you just hit escape, "Save & Exit." When you load up again, you'll be in your house, with the same stuff on hand/in your backpack.

I actually kinda also like that there doesn't seem to be a romance component? Like, that's neat and all when it is available, but I don't always want the townsfolk coming onto me just because I've given them sufficient eggs or whatever. I might have needed to do those quests to advance the plot, or get a new shovel or something. And maybe I'm not actually down to clown, homie.

Anyway, I'm thoroughly enjoying this game. Got it in the Steam Sale. I think it's not crazy expensive even regular price? My one issue that I'm running into is that the wiki for it is like...zero content. Or just not much in-depth stuff beyond the very bare basics for some of it. So when I want info or hit a snag, I been using Duck Duck Go on that biz, or hitting the Steam Forums. Not the worst thing in the world.

[jksarchives]

THE SIX STAGES OF A BREAK-UP │02

➪ PAIRING; jungkook x reader

➪ GENRE; lovers to strangers, angst

➪ WC; 2.5k

✎ series masterlist

2. BARGAINING

▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

You grew up in a small, quaint town in the countryside. The town, known for its picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, was a place where everyone knew each other.

Your parents were the owners of the town’s largest grocery store, therefore becoming a cornerstone. Your parents were the one of the most important pillars in the community who kept everyone together.

Their grocery store wasn't just a place to buy food; it was a social hub where neighbours caught up, children bought candies with their pocket money, and elderly townsfolk gathered for a chat. The store was indispensable, making sure that everyone had access to daily necessities without needing to travel to the nearest city, miles away.

Growing up, up until high school, your world revolved around the store. You spent countless hours weaving through aisles, stacking shelves, and sometimes even helping customers find what they needed.

To many, it seemed like an ideal childhood, an amazing daughter who always helped her parents.

But deep down, you knew your life was more than just lifting the burden of every day demands off your parents’ shoulder.

You were an only child to your parents, but they had always been busy for as long as you could remember.

From dawn until dusk, their lives were consumed by the tasks of running the store. Inventory needed to be checked, deliveries received, and the cash register manned. Weekends and holidays were no exception; in fact, those were often the busiest times. You would watch as your parents pour their energy and time into the store, leaving little left for you.

As a little five-year-old girl, you yearned for your parents' attention. You wished for just a few hours of their undivided focus, dreaming of days where you would play in the park, bake cookies, or simply talk. You longed for bedtime stories and weekend outings with them, but these were rare luxuries.

Their love for you was undeniable, but their presence was scarce.

Sometimes, you imagined what it would be like to have a sibling — a sister to share secrets with, a brother to play games with, someone who could fill the void in your heart.

Your friends would talk about the fun and quarrels they had with their brothers and sisters, stories that left you feeling envious and longing for the same experiences.

And as you grew older, your feelings of jealousy became more pronounced. Watching your friends with their siblings, who continued creating memories together and receiving unwavering attention from their parents, intensified your sense of deprivation.

Your attempts to gain your parents' attention often went unnoticed. You excelled in school, hoping your achievements would draw them closer, but their acknowledgment was short-lived.

Birthdays and special occasions were celebrated with gifts but lacked the warmth of genuine togetherness you hoped for. The superficial gestures could not fill the emotional gap that had grown over the years.

The loneliness of your childhood left a lasting impact on you. And as you transitioned into your teenage years, you carried with you the scars of emotional neglect from your parents.

You still loved them, and you couldn’t really blame them for trying to keep up with the heritage that your grandfather had built.

But you just wished. You just wished they had given you at least a day of their lives for you.

Relationships were difficult, be it romantic or friendship.

You craved connection but struggled with attachment issues. When you formed romantic relationships or friendships, you would swing back and forth between intense dependency and a strong desire to push people away. Your fear of being abandoned was strong, but so was your fear of being too close.

The one time you had a boyfriend when you were sixteen, you would often test boundaries, pushing for reassurance while simultaneously fearing that any closeness would lead to inevitable disappointment.

You found yourself frequently overanalysing your past boyfriend’s words and actions, interpreting affectionate gestures as signs of rejection or neglect.

But eventually he grew tired and frustrated with your behaviour, and left you overthinking everything about yourself and your flaws.

The cycle continued as you found yourself either overly clingy or excessively distant, never quite able to find a balanced space where trust could flourish. This pattern left you feeling isolated and misunderstood, as if you were forever on the outside looking in.

It wasn’t until you moved to Seoul to attend college that your life began to shift. The change came in the form of Jungkook, a free-spirited and warm-hearted boy who was everything you weren’t.

You met him at the college library, arguing about a book which you both happened to get your hands on but he let you have the win. For a moment you already felt a sense of displeasure towards him. But it all melted away when he began a conversation with you.

Jungkook was a young businessman with an open heart and an infectious zest for life. He was an heir to his father’s company, and he attended college to enhance his knowledge before taking over his father’s position someday.

You learned that he was outgoing, effortlessly charming, and had an innate ability to make people feel at ease. He was a contrast to everything you had known. He was emotionally expressive, and his openness fascinated you.

As you both started spending more time together, you found yourself slowly letting down your guard. Jungkook’s understanding and patience were qualities you hadn’t expected.

He never pushed you to share more than you were comfortable with but was always there, offering a listening ear when you did choose to open up.

Jungkook’s consistent love and support through the ten years you had been together never changed, despite the times where your insecurities would resurface.

Jungkook’s love for you was evident in how he made you feel valued and cherished. He listened intently when you spoke, celebrated your successes as if they were his own, and stood by your side during tough times.

You always reflected on how lucky you were to have him. He didn’t just love you; he showed it in ways that made you feel truly seen and appreciated.

You knew that love wasn’t always easy, but Jungkook’s commitment made every challenge seem surmountable. His promise to never leave wasn’t just words; it was a living truth in the way he chose to be present in your life, day after day.

But what now?

What is going to happen now?

How were you going to live without him by your side like he promised?

It was that very thought that sent your body into a panic mode as you watched Jungkook heavy-heartedly pack his belongings.

It had been two days since he told you he wanted to break up. Two days since you slept in different rooms. One where he laid feeling guilty as he had ever been, and the other where you cried your eyes out the entire night.

You didn’t speak to him at all, though he tried his best to talk to you, saying how sorry he was for everything. But the weight of the heartbreak left you unable to speak, fearing that if you tried to, you’d break down all over again.

However, right now as you watched him, you seemed to find your voice again.

The closet door was wide open, and his suitcase laid open and half packed. You took a small step forward. Your breath felt like it was stuck in your throat, and your vision blurred as tears formed. You tried to blink them away, but they only fell faster, tracing wet lines down your cheeks.

With each step, you felt a desperate urge to make him stay, to rewind time and undo everything that had caused your relationship to fall apart.

“Jungkook,” you called softly, your voice cracking.

Jungkook paused, his back still turned to you, the shirt he was holding briefly forgotten in his hands. Slowly, he turned to face you, his expression a mixture of resignation and sorrow.

“What are you doing?” you asked, though the answer was obvious. The question was a plea, a small hope that he might say something to break the spell of finality.

Jungkook sighed and looked down, unable to meet your eyes. “I'm just...packing my things,” he said quietly.

“I’m moving back with my parents for a bit before I get my own place” he then quietly mumbled.

There was a long pause, and all he could hear was your silent cries.

“Why does it have to be like this? Can’t we...Can’t we fix this?” you asked, feeling every cell in your body weaken.

Jungkook shook his head, a pained expression crossing his face.

“I don’t think so Y/n, I’m sorry. This is for the best” he replied.

“For the best?” you echoed, your voice trembling, “it doesn’t feel like it”. Your heart pounded in your chest, each beat a painful reminder of your desperation and fear.

He finally looked at you, his eyes mirroring the depth of your pain. “I know it doesn’t. But I can’t stay, Y/n. I can’t do this to you. You deserve to be happy with someone who loves you” he said.

Your shoulders slumped, and you felt a sob rising in your chest. You didn’t want to believe it, didn’t want to accept that your love story had come to such an end.

You couldn’t bear the thought of him leaving, of facing a future without him. The thought of waking up alone, of not hearing his laughter or feeling his arms around you, was unbearable.

“I don’t know how to do this without you Jungkook, please don’t go” you begged, your voice barely above a whisper.

Jungkook sighed, his shoulders sagging under the weight of the situation.

Jungkook was well aware of your attachment issues, and it hurt him to do this. But could you blame him for being a little selfish? He couldn’t stay in a loveless relationship and suffocate himself, but he couldn’t lead you with false hope either. He could never do that to you. He never hurt you like that.

He walked over to you and took your hands in his. His touch was warm, familiar, and it sent a jolt of longing through you.

“I’m so sorry for how everything came to be Y/n, I really am. I didn’t mean for it to happen, I promise” his voice shook, and his eyes glossed with unshed tears.

“I know it’s going to be hard, but you’re stronger than you think Y/n” he said softly as his hands then moved up to cup your face.

Jungkook knew how hard this was for you, and how harder things were going to get once he left. But there wasn’t much he could do but infinitely apologise for the heartbreak he has caused.

“That’s so easy for you to say” you cried, leaning into his touch. You didn’t feel strong. You felt like you were falling apart, piece by piece.

“I know it is, but I’m not leaving your side forever Y/n” he responded.

“I’ll always be here for you, maybe not as a lover anymore, but as a friend. We were friends in the beginning, and it will always remain so” he said.

Your heart dropped to your stomach.

‘Friend’, right.

But something about staying friends with your ex who you’ve been together with for a decade didn’t feel right to you. Who does that? You thought.

No.

You weren’t ready to let him go.

You couldn’t let him go.

“Please, don’t leave me,” you pleaded, her voice barely more than a whisper.

“We can fix this, I’m sure we can” you desperately held onto his hands.

The vulnerability in your words was raw, unfiltered, and it tore at you to expose yourself so completely. You didn’t care how shamelessly you were acting, practically begging a man who doesn’t love you anymore to stay.

Jungkook’s eyes softened, and for a moment, you thought he might relent.

But then he shook his head, a look of regret etched on his face. “I’m sorry, Y/n,” he said, slowly and carefully detaching himself from you.

“I can’t do this to you, to us” he said as he backed away. He looked at you for a second, apologetically, before resuming to pack his clothes.

You stood silently crying until you felt like you ran out of tears. Your eyes were on this all along, yet your mind drifted elsewhere.

This was it.

┄┄┄┄┄

You were sitting on the couch when Jungkook’s voice broke the silence, startling you.

“I think that’s everything,” he says softly, not meeting your eyes. There’s a hint of sadness in his voice. You nodded, unable to trust yourself to speak. Your throat felt tight, and you bit your lip to keep yourself from crying.

He glanced around one last time.

“I’ll get the rest of my stuff another day,” he said, almost as an afterthought. You nodded again, your heart sinking.

This was it. He was really leaving.

Jungkook picked up his suitcase and headed toward the door. As he passed you, he paused for a moment. He looked hesitant for a moment but gave in. He let go of his suitcase and pulled you up before wrapping his arms around you.

“Take care Y/n,” he said quietly against your soft brown locks.

You weakly shut your eyes, allowing the tears you’ve been holding back to freely flow once again. You swallowed a thick lump as you wrapped your arms around his muscular torso. You inhaled his cologne as you rigged on his shirt, savouring his familiar scent for the last him

“You too, Jungkook,” you managed to whisper shakily, your voice barely audible.

Jungkook could feel his shirt dampened by your tears and it only made his guilt spread across his chest.

He pulled you away and looked at your tear streaked face.

He saw you taking a deep breath, trying to steady yourself.

“Can you kiss me one last time before you leave?” you asked.

Jungkook looked unsure, and the hesitation was clear on his face. For a moment, you feared he would refuse, and the rejection would be too much to bear. But then, slowly, he nodded.

“Okay,” he said softly.

As Jungkook leaned in, you closed your eyes, relishing the feeling of his lips against yours.

The kiss was gentle and bittersweet, a reminder of what you once had and what you were losing. For a few brief seconds, the world around you both faded away, and it was just the two of you, locked in a final moment of connection.

When he pulled away, you felt a tear slip down your cheek. Jungkook wiped it away gently with his thumb, his expression tender.

“I’m sorry” he said.

You didn’t know how to respond to that. But knew he was genuine with his words with the way he looked at you and held you, like a delicate glass that was now fractured.

All you could do was hum.

“Goodbye Y/n, take care. I’m always here when you need me” he said.

But you needed him now, and during all the years he had promised you.

How could you tell him that you didn’t want to let him go?

“Goodbye Jungkook” you replied, your heart breaking all over again.

As you watched him walk away, you knew that this was the end of your story. A story that ended too early and abruptly, leaving you to figure out your own ending.

NEXT ➜

[deeznutzzzz24]

Little Red Riding Hood

Chapter One - Kill Or Be Killed

Summary: Living a life of caution for as long as she can remember, Y/N has never stayed too long in one place, always moving from town to town in hopes to hide her identity. With the Hunters Moon coming, she knows she must be extra careful, as the local culture resides heavily in the hunting of her kind. One night, when a cloaked figure unveils her secret and narrowly escapes, Y/N finds herself in a desperate situation: kill or be killed. With no face to go by, she must now search through the townsfolk before the stranger can spread the truth about her. But the task proves more than difficult when she realises her only lead is a long, crimson cloak.

Genre: horror, fantasy, little red riding hood retelling

Warnings: cursing, stalking, death, heavy smut (later included)

Pairing: redridinghood!Jungwon x femwolf! reader

next chapter

A branch snaps. Something is wrong.

I whirl around, casting quick glances to every corner of the forest. A rehearsal, like I’d done every Hunters Moon as a girl.

A confirmation.

A silence.

A knowing.

Someone is watching.

My eyes scan the turret of green abyss before me, checking every leaf, every branch with eager uniformity.

I scrutinise each passing spec, scanning the forest for something out of place, something that doesn’t belong. But even in the dead of night the forest remains regal with grace, beckoning me to try and find its flaw.

When I finally conclude that my hiding acquaintance must be some stumbling stag, I go to turn back to the river and notice a flicker of motion to my left.

I stop dead in my tracks.

Something that doesn’t belong.

Got you.

I race across the clearing, diving head first into the forest without hesitation, but this stranger is smart, and from what I can gather, eager to hide his identity as I watch his red cloak shift fervently through the trees, concealing any hint of skin as he swiftly dodges all obstacles in his path. Suddenly, he trips over a fallen branch and lands face first on the ground. He groans in pain and I slow in my pace, preparing to make haste of my short advantage.

But before I can do anything of the sort, he’s hoisting himself up, grabbing at his foot that’s stuck firm in the mud.

Thank the heavens for yesterdays rain.

I go to resume in my advances, but he’s gone before I can pounce, yanking his foot from the ground and making another run for it.

No.

The voice in my head rings clear, precise with its set instruction.

He mustn’t get away.

In one last eager attempt to catch him, I grab a rock nearby and aim it towards his leg, praying that the gods will spare me this one small decency, at least for today.

The figure doesn’t bother brushing the filth off his cloak, making a priority of his escape as he runs off. A smart one. I find myself admiring his resolve to live, and almost feel bad as I watch the heavy stone smash into his left leg, causing him to stumble down the hill at an awkward position. I follow, but at a slower pace this time.

He could be armed.

And yes, just as I had hoped, the stranger awaits at the bottom of the hill, rocking side to side as he groans in agony and clutches at his knee. He makes no attempt to get up, although as I inch closer, I realise my throw was so strong he mightn’t be able to. He stops groaning as I approach. He’s getting ready.

My hand slowly grabs at the small dagger tucked into my side, drawing it out in one sly motion. I feel him stiffen as I straddle his lap, much too clouded in pain to react as I grab his hands and prepare to tie them above his head. “Sneaky thing, aren’t you?” I remark, breathing hard between laughs as I lower my dagger just above his adams apple. “Maybe next time you’ll think twice before following me into the woods, boy.” His face remains covered by his crimson cloak, but I feel him breathing hard beneath it. I go to push it aside, but he abruptly pushes forward, banging his head against mine with fever.

I stumble backwards, moaning in pain. “You insolent little-” But it’s too late, the figure is already sprinting away into the dark forest. My hands find their way to my forehead, cradling what I know will be bruised tomorrow. Scrambling to my feet, I watch from afar as he pushes on, occasionally stopping to quickly relieve some pressure off his leg. I curse, kicking a nearby clump of dirt and sending it soaring through the trees. Brushing the dirt off my hair, I feel a surge of rage boil beneath my skin as I watch him cautiously cast quick glances behind him. The darkness makes it impossible for me to see his features clearly from this distance.

Dammit, I’m screwed.

I pace back and forth, considering running after him, but it’s too late, he’s too far gone now. He’s morphed into a small crimson spec now, limping as he makes a b-line for town.

Dammit.

Helena is going to be livid. But it doesn’t matter, because deep down I know she’s not the one I’m worried about.

The townspeople are.

Not to mention Mary, Jiwon and.…Heeseung. They’ll never speak to me again.

No, worse. They’ll push for my execution.

Wait. A tinge of cold air licks at my arm as I stop dead in my tracks. Red drops paint the dirt beneath me. My gaze follows the winding trail down the path.

Blood.

The fool has left me a trail.

I kneel to the ground, coating a finger in the red liquid and bringing it to my nose. His scent fills my senses, and I feel myself letting go. The blood smells sweet, like warm sugar and cinnamon. I bet it would it taste even better. My breath catches in my throat as I struggle to repress the small voice gnawing at my sanity. Go on. With shaky hands, I bring the blood to my lips, letting my mouth stop just short of contact. Let go. A howl echoes from across the forest. I snap out of my trance and shake my head, regaining my thoughts. I don’t have time for this. Deep breaths, in and out.

I am in control.

I turn back to the small village in the distance, the same town I have called home for the last 8 months. Avion. A quaint little village hustled in the centre of a frozen paradise, home to over 200 people…

and tonight, one of them is going to die.

_____________________________________________

Authors Note:

lmao can I just say thank you to all of yous that picked Jungwon in my previous poll cause gawd dayum I couldn’t stop picturing him as red riding hood and i suddenly regretted putting up a poll for ppl to choose LMAO 🤣

anyway ik this chapter was short but dw it was only short cause it was more like a prologue than an actual chapter lol

anyway peace out, me has got 2 go and start working on chapter two💀 bye bye

[rems-writing]

Hot guy summer continuation

Pairing: citizen!Wooyoung × witch amab!reader

Summary: It had been some time since Wooyoung was free of the animagus curse. He wondered what else he could do besides work for the Good Queen. Oh wait... the youngest Mills sibling has an idea!

Warning(s): Auralism kink, light choking and fingering, Wooyoung being a lil cock drunk, reader is a bit shy so Wooyoung takes it slow, softdom!Wooyoung, slight bondage and dirty talk, slight breath play and edging, unprotected sex (don't get it twisted. Wrap ya biscuit)

Genre: Soft smut with plot

Nets: @blossomnet @mirohs-aurora-society

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

It had been about five months since you and Wooyoung started dating. Things were going great. After he settled down in Storybrooke quickly, he got a job as Regina's assistant. He was to take care of any paperwork that had some of the townsfolk's concerns and suggestions written down before filing them and sending them to Regina. Most of the time, the task wasn't too hard since Regina was at the office most of the time and all he had to do was fax the files to her. However, since Regina was on a mission with Emma and Hook, he had a bit more piled on than usual. What's worse?

He was horny as all hell.

He never crossed that line with his partner since y/n wasn't ready and he respected that. However, he couldn't fathom going through the day without thoughts of making love to his partner.

Especially when y/n was teasing the living fuck out of him.

They were living together and Wooyoung was getting ready for work when y/n sauntered in to greet him goodbye. As he finished fixing his tie, he turned to y/n to bid goodbye to him. The words got stuck in his throat when he saw what y/n was wearing.

Y/n was wearing an oversized indigo tank top, boxers, and a cream colored cardigan that was slipping off the shoulders a bit to reveal a bit of skin. He, of course, didn't think anything of it as he approached Wooyoung and adjusted the pin stripe blazer he was wearing.

"Have fun at work, Youngie." His shy voice said to him and planted a kiss on his lips.

This kiss was a teeny bit longer than the usual pecks. Was it a sign?

Wooyoung didn't know since he haphazardly bid goodbye to y/n and shamefully relieved himself when he signed in and scurried off to one of the bathrooms in the city hall since he didn't want Regina to see the boner her little brother caused him.

Time had passed and Wooyoung was ready to go home. He had to attend a meeting with Regina and the rest of the city council board members. He didn't remember shit since his mind was on one thing.

Y/n

Specifically, the photo he sent Wooyoung.

He was only dressed in one of Wooyoung's dress shirts and the collar was angled to show off his unmarked collarbone.

Yeah Wooyoung was down bad.

Grumpy asked him if he was ok and all Wooyoung could do was nod.

After the meeting ended, he was the first to leave the city hall. He bid goodbye to Regina, signed out, and took his briefcase before briskly walking back to his shared apartment.

Y/n was in for one hell of a night.

Wooyoung's dress shows clicked loudly against the pavement and the volume increased as he stepped inside the apartment. Loosening his tie and throwing his glasses on the counter, he marched into the room.

His breath was knocked out of him when he saw his partner in that same shirt.

Y/n never took it off.

"Hi, Youngie. Welcome home~" Y/n purred shyly and giggled as Wooyoung looked around the room baffled. There were candles and rose petals everywhere, making the atmosphere a bit more romantic. Wooyoung growled softly and shrugged off his jacket before taking off his shoes and tie so he could crawl on the bed and bring his partner into a heated kiss.

Y/n moaned into the kiss and Wooyoung took the opportunity to slip his tongue into his partner's mouth.

Partner? Screw that. Y/n was his boyfriend. He was going to claim y/n as his. And he didn't need magic to do so.

Wooyoung kissed down y/n's neck and made sure to leave so many hickies and love bites all over that beautiful collarbone. In the meanwhile, y/n used his powers to remove Wooyoung's clothes. He barely removed Woo's shirt, leaving his upper body naked when Wooyoung grabbed his wrists and pinned them above his head before tying them up with his tie.

"Uh uh. baby. You were teasing me a whole lot today. I was in a meeting when you sent that photo. You want to fuck me badly huh? You need me?"

Y/n couldn't speak. Wooyoung's voice was soft yet there was an air of dominance to him. It also didn't help that one of his hands was wrapped around y/n's throat. His palm pressed against it lightly causing y/n to gasp shortly and quietly. Wooyoung chuckled and slipped a finger into the hem of y/n's boxers before pulling them down with ease. He also undid the buttons of y/n's shirt with ease as well before shrugging it off him.

"There we go. Isn't that better?" Wooyoung growled quietly and y/n shuddered. It was no secret that Woo's voice was a turn on for him and the man above him was using it to his advantage.

Wooyoung was moving downwards and proceeded to slip his fingers inside y/n's hole slowly, only to find out that the area had been stretched out and opened up for him already. Woo raised an eyebrow at y/n, who was blushing out of shyness.

"I figured I'd save you some time since I know you've must've been riled up during that meeting." He explained and Wooyoung cooed softly before reaching out to caress y/n's face.

"You're such a good boy. God I love you. Ok fine. Since this is your first time, I will forgive you for the teasing. Just stay still yeah? I'll make you feel good."

Y/n didn't have time to respond when he felt Wooyoung take in his cock at a painfully slow pace. He inhaled sharply as he felt himself be swallowed whole by the man above him. Little whimpers can be heard here and there and Wooyoung had the audacity to smirk while his mouth was stuffed full of his partner's cock. Soon, he began bobbing his head up and down. The slow pace made y/n writhe around in pleasure and had him begging for more. Wooyoung swept his hair back as he continued to suck his partner off, occasionally stopping to say shit like

"You taste like heaven."

"I could suck you off for days straight and never get tired."

"Don't move so much or else I'll go slower."

At this rate, y/n pushed Wooyoung's head down so he can go faster but the man pulled off him with a pop and shook his head in disdain.

"My pretty baby. You're being disobedient. Maybe I should stop here." He said with a teasing lilt in his voice. Y/n shook his head and cried softly on how he'll be good and he won't move around as much. Wooyoung cooed at the sight and brought his thumb to y/n's bottom lip before dragging it down slowly.

"Ok. I'll give you a second chance."

Soon, Woo's lips were swallowing y/n whole once more and y/n made sure to stay still, although he couldn't help but to let out little whimpers every now and then, which Wooyoung didn't mind of course. He even pulled off his partner to say how pretty he sounded before diving right back in.

To say that Wooyoung loved giving his partner head would be an understatement. He always had wet dreams about mouthing every part of y/n's body and today, he was finally able to do it.

He moved at a much faster pace now, slowing down every now and then to edge y/n. However, Wooyoung himself grew impatient and decided to give him what he wanted. His own cock strained in the matching pin stripe slacks he wore, and he knew he needed his own release soon.

Wooyoung soon felt y/n release in his mouth and he swallowed every last drop, occasionally sucking him every now and then to get every last drop. He pulled away and wiped his mouth before leaning to whisper in his ear.

"You're so good to me, baby. You deserve a reward."

He stood up and unbuckled his belt before letting his pants drop to the floor. Y/n sat up and gawked at the sight of him fully bare.

Well then.

Wooyoung was big in terms of width. He wasn't as long but he had some girth. The man crawled on top of y/n and brought him into yet another heated kiss. Despite y/n tasting himself on Woo's tongue, he pushed past it and concentrated on the man kissing him.

Y/n soon felt the tip of Woo's cock breach his entrance and hissed a bit when he slowly started pushing in. Woo shushed him lovingly and soothed his pain by leaving kisses all over his face.

"Baby, you're doing so well. You're taking me in so well. Fuck I love you. You can hold out yeah? I'm not too big?"

Y/n shook his head and Wooyoung smiled before holding him close to his chest. "I'm going to move now. Stop me at any time?"

He soon started moving. Slowly but at a deep angle. The moans y/n let out let Woo know that he was doing good so far. He even moved a bit faster when y/n told him to and who was he to not comply to his lover's wishes?

As time passed, Wooyoung went a bit faster with every few minutes. He even lifted one of y/n's legs over his shoulder to go even deeper. The new angle had y/n moaning louder than usual and Wooyoung moaning alongside him. The few kisses that were exchanged were messy, sloppy, and clashed a lot due to their teeth. But they didn't care.

As the candle flames slowly dwindled down and the volume of their moans & groans fluctuated, Wooyoung kept up his steady pace. However, his thrusts slowly became sloppy and his hips stuttered a lot.

He was close to his release.

"Baby, I'm cumming." Wooyoung moaned airly and y/n told him to go faster so he can cum. Keeping that in mind, Wooyoung thrusted a few more times before spilling his seed inside his lover. He stayed there for a few minutes before pulling out slowly. He caressed his boyfriend's face before kissing his forehead and scooping him up from their bed before heading into the bathroom to clean themselves up.

Needless to say, Operation Get Laid was a success.

[the-corset-witch]

Swans in the Whitethorns - Series

Genre: Gothic Horror Family Saga Themes: Cycles of Abuse, Hope in Small Corners, Good People ™️ do Bad Things ™️ to Survive Status: (1) Completed First Draft, resting, (1.5) Outlining

This is meant to be a 6-7 book series that centers around the Hawthorne family. Though I am writing the series in chronological order, I intend to release it in the reverse order-- it's just easier for me to write it this way. But do keep that in mind, though I am numbering them in the order of writing for this post, the #1 (Garden of Weeds) will be the last of the series.

Garden of Weeds (1)

Susana thinks her life at Hawthorn Hall with her sister, Melina, and brother-in-law, Cyrus, is going to be amazing even if she will be carrying the brunt of the work; Susana loves animals and has always dreamed of her own slice of nature to watch grow. When her sister is out nursing the townsfolk, Cyrus and Susana are left alone which starts sowing secrets which grow thorns when Cyrus turns cruel & Susana tries to marry to find an exit plan. She and her new husband Hank live with the Hawthornes, and shortly after her marriage Melina dies, leaving just a little girl behind. The man she prayed to save her joins forces with Cyrus and Susana becomes truly hopeless in her home until finding a diary of Melina's. With this, all her problems can be solved, and one by one, she solves them. First, her husband Hank. Then, after biding her time carefully, she gets rid of the Hawthorn patriarch so that his son whom she helped raise, Marc, can take his place.

Budding Secrets (1.5)

Betty has always been the odd flower in the garden, and as she finishes up her schooling and tries to find her place in the world, that becomes ever clear. All of her older siblings seem to be getting married and having children and Betty can't seem to make one thing work. Convinced there's something wrong with her and looking for acceptance wherever she can find it, Betty stumbles on her path before the death of her mother, Susana, straightens her out with a reminder of what's waiting at the finish line.

Secrets in Full Bloom (2)

I don't know yet 🙂

Warnings

Oh boy, a whole lotta abuse, all kinds, any kinds- verbal abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, forced pregnancy, "spicy tea" aka poison, broken trust, betrayal, incest abuse. Controlling behavior, narcissistic abuse, there's a lot up in here... Substance abuse, malignant coping mechanisms. Also, cancer and other old timey illnesses that we don't have (polio n shit). It's a very much "bad things happen to good people, and sometimes good people have to do bad things in response" theme, and that comes with a lot. I also have not shied away from "good people end up with nasty scars from what they've been through and this can make them bad people" as a bit of a sub-theme.

nothing is censored in this post so any post-hiders can search&find&hide, if you are upset by the contents of this post then I suggest you take it upon yourself to get something that can do this task for you as that is why I have tried to make things as easy for the lil ai to keep you safe (proper case use of ai)

[carlosfruitsnacks]

"if you're too shy, let me know" - part 3

PART 1 || PART 2

summary:

— You come to find Carlos' sudden change of behavior endearing, but you still don't know why he turned out this way. You start to notice your feelings for him over time until Carlos ultimately isn't too shy anymore to let you know how he feels about you.

genre:

— fluff

notes:

— female reader. I do not speak fluent Spanish and all of the Spanish here is translated from google, feel free to correct me.

warning/s:

— none

a/n:

— finally! the last part for this series, it's been delayed but here you guys go <3

The residents of Encanto have grown used to Carlos Madrigal's sudden shift of behavior, the townsfolk were grateful that he had a change of heart and began participating in helping them at any given opportunity. There was gossip downtown from a few people, comparing Carlos to his twin but agreeing that they both of their own charms. The Madrigals do have interesting genes after all.

It was difficult for you not to heed to those petty gossips of which Madrigal twin was better, you like to say you prefer Camilo because he's kindhearted and outgoing, however, the sudden popularity of Carlos made you think twice. You agree that the two had their own different charms though only Carlos managed to steal your interest.

Surely it was weird, you were so afraid of Carlos for so long because of his reputation but now it felt something stronger than fear. After that quick encounter with the shapeshifter the other day, you cannot stop thinking about him. You'll always find yourself imagining his eyes, his perfect curly hair, and him acting so...shy around you. It's adorable really. It was a bewildering moment to see yourself slowly falling for him.

There are moments of denial until you raised your white flag and admitted defeat. You're in love with Carlos Madrigal. Of course, it was a secret you'll take it with you to the grave. It was a bizarre 180, falling for the person you were afraid of before.

You were tasked to go to the market again, but you felt distracted. Mainly because you can spot Carlos actually helping a few of the vendors on their stands, using his shapeshifting into good use. You wanted him to notice you, which was a big contrast from before. You used to want to be hidden from him but now you crave for his eyes to land on you.

"[Name]? ¿Chica estás bien?-"

"¡Sí, señor! I'm sorry I kinda spaced out a little bit!"

You apologized as you took the vegetables from the vendor. Goodness, you were out of your element ever since Carlos began acting so kind to everyone in town, you were just so drawn to him. You shake your head and tried to regain your focus, before you can leave the market, you feel a tap on your shoulder. You turn to see curly hair but awkwardly smiled when you realized it's only Camilo Madrigal.

"¡Hola, [Name]! Do you need some help with those?"

"¡Ay, no! I can handle this on my own, thanks anyway Camilo"

"Hmm, are you sure? Those vegetables look heavy"

"Don't worry I can manage!"

"Okay, don't mind me, I just wanna tag along"

Camilo smirked, it felt weird for you but you brushed it off. You two walked out of the market. Camilo whistled and trailed right behind you. As much as you don't want to admit it, you really wished that you were with his twin brother instead. You bite your lip to prevent a smile from erupting on your face as you daydream about Carlos.

"Were you expecting to meet Carlos instead of me?"

You were quickly pulled out of your thoughts and looked at Camilo with a flushed expression. You immediately deny it with a shake of your head.

"No! I know he's too busy helping other people today"

"Yeah, he's trying his best you know..."

"I can tell, it's...it's very sweet of him"

"Ha! You find him sweet?"

Camilo pointed at you with a teasing grin, this made your face heat up to a thousand. With a rapid shake of your head, you stuttered.

"I me-meant it like in a fr-friendly wa-way!"

"[Name], do you like Carlos?"

"No! I do-don't!"

"Whatever you say, hermosa"

You frowned at Camilo for teasing you. But the topic was dropped, thankfully. You and Camilo reached the town's main square, there were busy crowds everywhere as usual. You let your eyes linger around, you spot children squealing and chasing each other. All of a sudden, your stomach dropped to see Camilo chasing the children and laughing when he catches him in his arms.

Wait, if that's Camilo then who's-

With a slow turn of your head, you come face-to-face with none other than Carlos Madrigal, who was pretending to be his twin brother the entire time. Your mouth goes dry as you felt your heart leaping out of your chest, you meet his eyes and dropped your bag filled with items from the market when he gives you an amused grin.

"I-I...wh-what...you-"

"Ay, you dropped your bag, here let me help you, [Name]"

Carlos shoots you a subtle wink making you melt inside as he reaches for your bag and carried it. You were momentarily frozen as you blinked several times to make sure everything was real. You look away, biting your nails and kinda wishing the ground would open up and swallow you whole. You do like being in the center of Carlos' attention but actually being in it was overwhelming. God, it made you too shy to breathe. Your hands were trembling as you continue your walk with Carlos to your home.

The shapeshifter felt incredibly bold today, not an ounce of nervousness was in his system when he decided to shoot his shot with you. Carlos noticed your sudden shyness around him when he revealed himself was making him incredibly giddy, he wanted to trap you in his arms and pepper kisses all over your face. But he must restrain himself if wanted his secret plan to work. He follows you to your house, he softly returns your bag as you sheepishly looked into his eyes.

"...Thank you, Carlos"

"No problem, [Name]"

"You're too kind..., especially to those townsfolk"

"Just wanted to lend a helping hand"

"Yeah, that's...that's very admiring of you"

"No need to be shy, hermosa. You can just tell me that kindness suit me"

Carlos remarked as he leaned against the doorframe, smirking and not removing his eyes from yours. Your breath merely hitched as you try to get rid of the blush on your face, it was unfair that he was making you feel this way. So, you try to get back at him by suddenly giving him a toothy smile.

"Are you free tomorrow afternoon, Carlos?"

"Hold it, I can see where this is going"

"Oh, are you going to reject me in advance?"

"Me? Why that wouldn't be so kind of me. I was going to say yes"

"Perfect. I'll see you again tomorrow afternoon, it's a date"

You attempt to assert your confidence by smirking at him and resting a hand on your hip. But the moment he waved goodbye and you shut the door behind you, your heart could barely take it. Everything was pure luck, but damn, you have a date tomorrow with Carlos Madrigal. Holy shit you did it.

On the other hand, Carlos meets up with his twin brother at dinner and told him everything that happened.

"Wow, it seems like luck is on your side today, Carlos"

"I know right, she asked me out before I can even do it first. Perfect for the plan"

"I can't wait to get this over with"

"I can't wait to have a girlfriend"

"Fucking simp"

"At least I'll have a girlfriend, unlike you who's single-"

"Camilo, Carlos, quit whispering and eat your food"

Pepa pointed at her twin sons with her fork, a thundercloud threatened to form above her head. Camilo and Carlos meekly apologized to their mother and resumed eating.

You checked on yourself for the nth time in front of the mirror, and with each passing minute, you grow anxious. You wanted to look your best for your date with Carlos. You put on your prettiest dress and drowned yourself with your new perfume. You paced in your room for a while, overthinking until a knock on the front door interrupts you. Swiftly, you go to answer it.

"Buenos tardes. ¿Estas lista?"

Carlos looked so breathtaking wearing a maroon long sleeve polo shirt with black pants, his hair looked so shiny and oh my lord does he smell so fucking nice. You nod as you let Carlos take your hand, you felt the electrifying sensation shoot through you by his touch. You suck in a breath as you linked your arm with his, Carlos bites back a grin.

The first place he takes you was a local diner. When you two enter, there were no customers around, and you raised a brow. Carlos confidently leads you to a special table, overlooking a view from the window. You gasped when he pulls out a random bouquet of flowers from nowhere, you shyly take them. You two took a seat as a woman comes serving you fresh and warm food, your eyes twinkled in delight.

As you two began to eat, music starts playing in the background. You noticed a small band playing their instruments behind you, the music sounded so romantic that it's making the moment too good to be true. Carlos smiles at you.

"Enjoying everything so far, [Name]?"

"Wow, yes. Where is everybody though?"

"Oh, I asked to rent the entire diner so we can have it alone together today"

"You shouldn't have"

"What can I say, I'm a sweet guy. You said it yourself"

You rolled your eyes playfully at him and laughed. After the most romantic lunch you ever had in your entire life, Carlos leads you out of the diner. 

With linked arms, you let Carlos lead you away. The path leads you to the edge of a river, your eyes looked with surprise to see Camilo waving at you in a huge boat for two. Carlos carefully takes you to the boat, both of you take a seat as Camilo starts paddling across the river. You took in the wonderful scenery, and Carlos quietly admired you with lovestruck eyes. All of a sudden Camilo clears his throat which makes his twin flinch in his seat and regain his focus.

"[Name], may I ask you something?"

"Carlos, you really are something else"

You admit and this causes the boy to turn in all shades of red, Carlos recovers his composure when he noticed Camilo holding back a laugh behind you.

"Thanks. Anyways I was thinking..."

"It's weird not being afraid of you anymore"

"Oh...about that...about that time, I'm deeply sorry for, you know, scaring the shit out of you"

"I suppose it's my fault for believing everyone who's saying you're a terrifying guy"

"I get you, [Name]. I can get...really nasty sometimes but you helped me realize I can be more than that"

A soft smile graced your lips as you slowly interlocked your fingers with Carlos on the boat. He monetarily gulped at the sudden action.

"You're an incredibly nice guy, Carlos. Helping the people in Encanto and doing all of these for me"

"Ay, don't tell me you falling for me, [Name]"

"What if I am?"

Carlos froze at your words. You deeply looked into his eyes, the emotion he saw in your eyes gave him goosebumps. This was the moment he was waiting for, the only thing he wanted in life. All he needed was to say those perfect words and you'll be his.

"Are you sure?"

"How could I not, Carlos? You're going to drive me insane with these stunts of yours"

"I couldn't resist, I'm desperate to make you mine [Name] all you have to do is say yes"

Everything felt too surreal for your mind to process, Carlos was asking you to be his and it's making your heart flutter so much. After seeing Carlos in a new light, you never wanted anything but to know what it feels like to have his arms around you. All you wanted is to bury yourself alive under his touch. You glanced on the waters then back at Carlos.

"I..."

"Hey, if you're too shy, let me know"

"Carlos..."

"I'm not trying to rush things for you, I just wanted to tell you that I'm madly in love with you"

"Yes. Yes, Carlos, I want to be yours"

The second those words left your mouth, Carlos rushed in to kiss you on the lips. Everything was happening too fast but you managed to kiss him back, ten times harder and pulled him very close. When you two pulled away, you both shared a smile. Camilo lets out a loud groan and stopped paddling.

"Boo! Get a room you two"

"Ey cállate, pendejo"

"You two are making out in my boat"

"How about I fucking push you off then!"

"Hey! I did what you asked, where's my thank you?!"

"Oh, I'll give you my thanks, ven aquí cabrón-"

You gasped and tried to hold back Carlos from pushing his twin brother off the boat. Unfortunately, the sudden ruckus causes the boat to rock back and forth making the boat flip violently to the side and tossing all three of you into the water. You tried to stay afloat, you turn to Carlos who has his entire hair covering his face, and you laugh at him.

"You look like a sea monster"

Carlos pushes his hair out of his face and splashed some water at you. He laughed when you gave him an offended look, he screamed when you splashed water back at him. Eventually, you and Carlos started to get into a water fight. Camilo rolled his eyes at you two and swims back to land, cursing at his wet clothes.

"Dios, I feel so sticky and wet right now. This is your fault [Name]"

"Hey, don't act like we didn't have a moment back there"

"Ugh, let's just get back to shore, amor"

Carlos slaps his hand on his mouth and gazes at you with horror, your jaw dropped as you go pointing at him with sparkling eyes.

"Oh my god, you called me amor!"

"I didn't!"

"Awww, are you too shy to admit it, Carlos? Let me know"

"Please can we just go now? The water is starting to make me itchy, mi vida"

"Carlos-!"

"Not another word"

taglist: @vanevafu , @irisia-ckzkb1109 , @elegantkidfansoul , @candykamikun , @cahmilo , @pochi-moochika , @justzei , @try-cry-why-try , @nanaisheretomessupthings ...join here

masterlist

[husbandohunter]

Stardew Impact [Stardew Valley+Genshin Impact x Reader]

Part 2/3 Zhongli, Xiao

Synopsis: “A mysterious phenomenon brought you and your s/o to an unfamiliar world: Pelican Town! Without the power of Visions, the two of you begin to learn the life of what it takes to be...a farmer?”

(DOMESTIC FARM LIFE ROUND TWO)

Genre: Fluff

Others

Diluc and Kaeya

Albedo and Childe

(A/n): This was meant to be part 3 but I couldn't wait to write xiao. Plus Ive been writing Albedo for almost the whole month already Word count_2.6k

-------

Xiao

• Thrown in an unfamiliar environment puts Xiao on high alert. Instincts kick in and his hand subconciously grabs for his spear. Nothing. Not even his vision activated. Xiao's gaze darts all over before landing on your figure. He sighs in relief, you're safe, that much he can decipher as of now.

• Stripped of his power, left with only claws and teeth (if must) to protect you from any dangers, he was ansty with every little thing. 

• The villagers are so nice??? For what reason must they have to act so friendly to strangers (Xiao wonders). The Mayor even granted you two a vast farmland free of charge. 

• Shortly he realized he no longer had his karmaic debt. Xiao wasn't sure how to live his life in this state. He dedicated his entire existence to years of slaughter and suffering that it became the only thing he knew. He won't admit it of course, he'll just throw in scoffs and remarks about how mundane activities are a waste of time when in reality, he just has no clue on how to handle them.

• Thats why the first day was difficult as you both try to figure out how to plant parnsips. Deciding it was better to go with an experiment, you split the share of seeds in half and used what basic knowledge you had on farming to finish the job. Xiao on the other hand tried copying what you did….though the outcome wasn't so desirable it was a mess. (His trained hands have taught him to be on the rough side).

• He doesn't bother socializing with the townspeople even though he has no karmaic debt to worry about. Xiao thinks you're more than enough anyways so what's the point? 

• Robin is the only person who can tolerate him for obvious reasons (cough Sebastian cough) she knows exactly how to deal with his personality type. His glares don't faze her, she simply thinks its just a teenage phase of some sort. 

• Eventually they become mutuals, Xiao thinks Robin is similar to Verr Goldet in a way. Since he's the one who does the heavy labour of chopping down trees and mining stones for building upgrades, he gets a chance to visit her house quite often. He comes back with lots of recipes too.

• You find out that his adepti blood never left him. Xiao doesn't need sleep so you better believe it when he tells you the next morning that he spent the whole night watering all 300 of your crops (watering is the only process he's good at for farming). 

• Sometimes you catch him staring out of the window, wondering what he may be thinking. Life was so much more different, almost hard to recognize. Was this real? Is it okay for it to be real, just this once? Ever since he committed his duty to Morax, Xiao didn't dream of a time when everything would be peaceful. Yet here he is, no longer a weapon but on a journey to find out what it's like to live as a normal person. 

• Spring: Every morning you find him kneeling behind the cabin with the pet cat (yes, cats seem to suit Xiao very much). He just stares at them, hesitant if he wanted to pet their fur or rub their chin. So he continues to glare intensely, scaring your cat away :(

• Whenever you wanted to attend any of the town's festivities, Xiao wouldn't even hide his distastefulness but goes with you regardless. Why do mortals consider hiding eggs and finding them a fun activity? And what kind of a name is Flower Dance? Can't they just call it a dance?

• Though…he does like the sight of you wearing a flower crown. Xiao likes putting stuff in your hair.

Since setting foot upon this new world, time seemed to have slowed down to the point that almost everything felt like an eternity. And you didn't mind, with him by your side, you wouldn't mind if it did last forever.

The lull of the grass was the only sound Xiao could hear as he closed his eyes and rested his head on your lap. You maneuvered across his scalp in small, subtle motions, surprised with how warm he felt against the heat your palm. He stirs a little and lets out a soft breath before turning his face to lay on the side.

You were slightly intrigued by the yaksha's new demeanor. From far away, Xiao was an intimidating man, even during the first time you laid eyes him, his presence felt similar to a knife pointing at anyone who dares to come too close. But now, the face that usually held his signature annoyance melted into something you never thought you'd see as the sun rays brushed against the surface of his fair skin. You observed the way his dark eyebrows stayed in a relaxed arch. The red crescents lining right above his beautiful long lashes and the sound of soft snores through parted lips. It was hard to believe that this man was the same person who claimed to have ended a thousand lives through thousands of years.

Did he fall asleep already?

Gently moving away the strands away from his cheekbone, hovered your gaze above him and whispered, "I thought adepti don't need rest."

"Hmph," Xiao responds, though there was no harshness in his tone, "Quit trying to be difficult, I didn't tell you to stop."

The smug grin on your face only widens. You lean downward and said to his ear, "And what's the magic word~?"

Xiao sighs at your antics. You were truly pushing your luck today and he simply didn't have the patience to entertain you. Without a warning, he grabs your wrist and pulls you down, foreheads pressing until you were but a breath away. The adepti conquers, he does not plead.

• Summer: As expected, your parnsnips weren't able to grow as much. Thus, this season was going to be the one to make up for the lost profit. Xiao is very good at hunting, perhaps the best in the entire town. Though the way he catches fish is rather peculiar, said by the folks. He prefers to carve a spear made of wood and repeatedly stabs the lake until results show. Xiao dislikes the old fashioned way, he says its unproductive and it unecissarily takes too much time. 

• But as much as he scared the whole town, they were extremely grateful when he cleaned up the slime issues happening in the mines. You could say that he grew very popular since then and eventually mustered up the courage to greet him a hello whenever he passes by. 

• You nudge him to reply back. Xiao usually shoots you a glare but slowly, he learns the courtesy of acknowledging someone's prescence.

• Fall: You woke up to a burnt smell coming from the kitchen. Xiao just thought he would return the favour since you always worked so hard. (He was actually trying to figure out what a 'whisk' was. It was no wonder why there were eggshells in the dish!)

• You realized that Xiao was taking more initation compared to before. At night, when you thought the animals were actively jumping in the barns, the noise was actually from Xiao trying to adjust himself to the ways of tending the field. After learning what TV was, he would always switch to the channel "Livin off the land" to gain some insight. Truly, Xiao was greatful even though he knew he eventually had to return to his duties, he wanted to utilize the current days the best way he could. And what better way was it to just make you happy in return?

• Winter: This was the season to test the accumulation of Xiao's abilities: you caught a cold and he had to manage everything in his own. Xiao scolded you for not wearing enough and being too careless but at the same he considered that you must've been working too hard.

• Goes to Robin for help. She basically became his mom now. Prepares the food and leaves them in the fridge, she teaches Xiao how to use the phone in case he needed any help and also lets him know where all the essentials are. 

• Xiao stayed by your side the whole time even though you told him you'd be fine. But he refuses, he may no longer be a gaurdian but he was your gaurdian. That role never changed.

~~x~~

Zhongli

• You wake up on a soft bed with Zhongli sitting at a chair nearby. He hands you a cup of brewed water but you're still blatlantly confused. Seems like everything was taken care of by Zhongli, it ends up with him explaining everything to you. 

• The folks instantly assumes you both as a married couple. Who could blame them? He did carry your unconcious body all the way to town while asking for a local doctor. You can bet that the ladies wish they were you at that moment. Zhongli took care of everything, including with the contract with the new farm.

• It didn't take long for you both to adjust to the new lifestyle. Zhongli's accumulated knowledge was enough to last all four seasons. Days past by peacefully as you shared the tasks. He'd place down the stone paths towards the gate and you busied yourself with decorating the house. After that was done, Zhongli would rest upon the rocking chair outside your door (like the grandpa he is) and sometimes you'd join him in one reading session. His voice was soothing, you eventually dipped into a slumber as the evening grew colder. Just like always, your beloved brings his arm to encapsulate you from the wind, brushing his thumb against your skin subconciously while you snore softly into his shoulder.

• In a way, the townsfolk were right. You both do act like a married couple. It's basically domestic life with Zhongli in a nutshell.

• He gets connected with Gunther and lands a role in the Museum. Since he's there so often, Zhongli also manages to be acquainted with Elliot as well. Two men who have a common interest with books while speaking in poetic prose. Their conversation would last for hours to the point Gunther had to kick them out of the library!

• Veeeery good with the children, not in an entertaining way but its just the aura he reeks. Penny usually had trouble dealing with Vincent since he never seems to be able to focus but the minute Zhongli speaks, he's all ears. Not only that he was also very good with the elderly. He even recommended some herbs George could take to soothe his back issues.

• Problem is that he still forgets to bring his wallet and Childe isn't here to save him. So once you stepped foot into the Stardrop Saloon and Gus calls you over, he tells you about the cost he owed to his tab….

• But this tranquil life full of genuinity and deprived of sovereignty, he was overjoyed to be able to spend it with you. Because he knew you were unlike him, that all humans were born with an expiry date. He knew so well that after every new greeting, he would have to face the goodbyes over and over until the world eventually came to an end. He knew you were also going to be part of those many goodbyes while he would still be here.

• But as Zhongli walks amongst the fallen leaves, he remembered the beauty that carries within every new beginning. They brought him to you and he would never hesitate to trade his gnosis for it.

Spring: You shot up your bed when Zhongli blast the TV at full volume. He apologizes, saying that he was simply trying to change the channel. You figured it was best for him to go outside before he somehow glitches the screen until it couldn't repair itself (Robin charges for repairs).

• Every thursday you both go to Pierre's store to complete your grocery shopping. He offers to push the cart as you fill the basket with all the necessities (plus it saves you the trouble of having him tossing whatever he sees without looking at the price tag).

• Every afternoon you order a take out from the Saloon, sharing the meal while sitting at the fountain's edge near the community center. Every evening Zhongli would take you to explore the rest of the vast farmland, discovering places you weren't even aware of. It was no wonder why everyone thought you were a married couple. 

• Summer: Since the cabin was too small for a bathroom, you guys would have to travel up the mountains in order to get to the Spa house (cue sweatiness x10). 

• The concept of hotsprings was derived from Inazuma so it was no surprise that Liyue eventually took it after him. Zhongli had collected some incense from foraging items over the past few months, he knows whats up. But overall he gives the best bath sessions (hands down) and you were the one who insisted in joining him.  He was a gentle and sweet lover, always putting your needs before his. Ancient artifacts and old history books have always been precious to him, he treated you no differently.

The heartbeat of the oceans continues to rock back and forth until they brush up on the sandy shore, washing away the two pairs of footprints left behind by a man and a woman.

Gold against gold, his amber eyes reflected against the scenery. Millions of lights flashed among the sea when the sun began to climb down from the sky, it's rays hugged across the valley like an ethereal glow bestowed by the heavens as summer's wind brought even more warmth than what he had currently felt. You trance ahead of with the same light shaping around your form. 

"Oh hey there's another rainbow shell," you waved at him before running off, "I'll be back!"

How is it that you still continue to shine like gold in his memories?

Zhongli suddenly ponders at the chapters laying ahead of him. He spent so many years turning each page without ever reaching a conclusion, forever searching the fabled happy endings written in fairytale books, but he knew his immortality wouldn't grant him that wish.

Thus, the formal archon raised his pen and reweaves his own story. He envisions his future with you by his side, engraving every detail until it was immortalized in his memories.

Perhaps I shouldn't keep her waiting.

With a renewed resolve, Zhongli clutches the gemstone tightly in his palm, he seals the page with the final contract between your future and his.

• Fall: After getting your first house upgrade, it was time for the next event: the ceremony. Yes, Zhongli would only have a wedding if Liyue traditions were involved. Everyone was invited of course, they were quite intrigued with the flashy setup such as lanterns and fireworks (you were a little worried with where he got the budget for such items) and Zhongli even educated Gus about some recipes he can use for the Saloon.

• You found out that Zhongli was saving all his money for this day (it was no wonder that he couldn't pay for his tab!). Old habits die hard, it was a shame that he didn't have his powers to craft the right items, but at least he got to sea you in a traditional eastern dress (it's the part he was looming forward to the most).

• Fall is the best season. One you wouldn't forget.

• Winter: Ah he finally learns how to use  technology after three seasons. He only knows two channels from the TV which was 'Livin off the Land' and the weather channel. Zhongli oftens talks to himself as he tries to figure out more mechanics, he seems to be extremely absorbed in the most basic things.

• The miner of the house. But instead of using them to upgrade tools and donating them to the museum, Zhongli likes to keep some of them for collection. You could say your house also had a little museum in the other room.

• Romcom movies and soap operas. You can't change my mind that this is what you both spend your time watching as the snowstorm rages outside. 

[whimsicallyenchantedrose]

Christmas Reruns: Day 15—Home for Christmas

Rating: G

Word Count: 2642

Other chapters: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33​

Notes: Today’s story was written during the hiatus between 5a and 5b, so obviously a number of the Underworld events referred to in the story did not come to pass. We’ll just call this a canon divergence. Newly back from the underworld, Emma finds a way to give Killian the best Christmas present he could ever hope to get.

Genre: CS 5b canon divergence

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Emma woke, as she woke every morning any more—with a smile on her lips and a song in her heart.  The sun shone brightly into her bedroom window, letting her know it would be time to get up soon, but her bed was warm and cozy and she had no intention of leaving it until she had to.  She stretched and turned over, hoping to spend a few more minutes snuggling with her husband before it was time to start the day.

Only her hand landed on empty sheets rather than a furry pirate chest.  Emma sat up abruptly, her heart stilling before beginning to race, the panic hitting with no warning.

It had been three months since she, Killian and the rest of her family had returned from the Underworld, and though time had eased the pain of their two-month-long ordeal with the darkness and Killian’s subsequent death, it was still difficult for Emma to let her true love out of her sight; it was still difficult to keep the fear at bay whenever they were apart.

Emma tossed the covers aside, stepped into her furry slippers, and wrapped herself in her warm bathrobe.  She tossed open the bedroom door, and hurried into the hall.  No sooner had she stepped out of her room then the smell of frying bacon teased her nose, and the sound of her boys talking and laughing met her ears.

She let out the breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding.  They were fine.  They were both fine; safe, happy, and here with her.

“Come on, Killian!” Henry cajoled.  “It’s Christmas morning!  Can’t we just wake her up?  She’ll sleep all day if we let her, and I can’t wait for you guys to open my present!”

Emma grinned as she stepped into the kitchen and leaned against the doorframe waiting for her two true loves to notice her.

“You know as well as I that’s a dangerous prospect lad,” Killian said, turning toward the stove and flipping the pancakes with the handy spatula attachment he’d replaced his hook with for the task at hand.  “You know full well that waking your mother is akin to bearding the lion in its den.” 

Emma cleared her throat, masking her amusement with a fierce scowl.  “Excuse me?”

Two pairs of startled eyes met hers, and then Killian reached up to scratch at that much abused spot behind his ear.  “Merry Christmas, love!  I just…I wanted to let you sleep.  I didn’t mean…you see, we understand.  But when you don’t get your sleep you are sometimes…not that you aren’t bloody brilliant at all times, but…” 

Emma chuckled, sauntered up to him, and placed a quick kiss against his lips.  “Merry Christmas, Killian, and I think you’d better stop while you’re ahead.” 

She noticed the tips of his ears reddening as she pulled back.  “Aye, love.  Perhaps you’re right.”

Henry launched himself at her, wrapping her in an exuberant hug.  “Merry Christmas, mom!”

“You too, kid.  From what I heard, it sounds like someone’s excited to open presents.”

He grinned.  “Yeah, maybe a little.  But Killian convinced me it would be better to have breakfast first.”

Emma’s stomach growled.  “Smart man.  So what can I help you guys with?”

Killian stepped to her side, kissed her cheek and handed her a mug of hot cocoa, topped, of course with whipped cream and cinnamon. “Not a thing at all, my love.  You do so much for us, for all of the townsfolk.  It’s time you allow your men to spoil you.”

“Yeah, mom!” Henry said, turning her toward the living room.  “Why don’t you go relax; maybe turn on some Christmas music.” 

Her smile widened.  “How could I say no to that?”

After turning on the stereo, Emma settled into their plush, comfortable couch, looking up at their magnificent Christmas tree as she sipped at her cocoa. 

This was Killian’s first Christmas in the land without magic, and Emma and Henry had been determined to make this a holiday to remember.  Her inquisitive husband had jumped into the holiday traditions with both feet, spending long hours searching out books and movies about the season, peppering everyone with questions, setting out to fulfill each and every time-honored ritual.

He and Henry had taken an axe and trekked into the woods on the morning after Thanksgiving, and they’d subsequently returned with the biggest, most magnificent Christmas tree Emma had ever seen.  The three of them had spent hours stringing it with lights, hanging ornaments, positioning it just so, ensuring it was an outward expression of their inner joy.

Killian had gone on to hang three stockings on the mantle–meticulously neat and tidy, of course—and sprigs of mistletoe everywhere he could think of.  Emma had to admit, she was rather glad she’d told Killian about that particular tradition. 

(Henry, not so much.  The way he complained about the two of them making out all the time you’d think the kid was traumatized for life.  Henry couldn’t fool her, though.  She saw the pleased grins he tried to hide behind his eye rolls and groans of adolescent angst.  Truth was, all of them were utterly, stupidly happy just to be together and alive and in the land of the living.  Not much would really annoy any of them for some time to come.)

The result was that their home looked like something out of one of those cheesy Christmas movies, and Emma couldn’t be happier. 

Other than the year with Henry in New York, Emma had never been much for Christmas.  Watching all those happy families smiling and laughing, enjoying each other’s company, the love and joy clearly showing on each of their faces—well, it was nothing short of agonizing for a lonely, lost girl. 

But she wasn’t a lonely lost girl anymore.  She was part of a family—a family she deeply loved, and one that she knew loved her just as much.

She couldn’t ask for anything more perfect or more magical.  Christmas was a time for love, a time for family.  Emma smiled to herself as she thought about the plans she and her parents had made for today.  She had one last plan for making this a Christmas her husband would never forget, one last surprise for the man who’d proven there was nothing he wouldn’t do for her; the man who had given her her happy ending.  When her parents had come to her with the idea, she’d cried, overwhelmed at the beauty of the plan, at the joy it would bring Killian.

Yes, Christmas was a time for family, and she was bound and determined to show her pirate that he never needed to spend a lonely holiday—or any other day—again.

~c~s~c~s~c~s~c~s~c~s~

Emma laughed at something Henry said, and Killian smiled to himself, picking up her hand and lacing their fingers as they walked.  It was a bitterly cold afternoon, but yesterday’s snowstorm had given way to a brilliantly sunny Christmas day, and he and Emma and the lad had decided to walk the few blocks to her parents’ abode for Christmas dinner.

It did his heart good to see his wife so happy.  The darkness and its consequences had weighed heavily on both of them, and for weeks after their return, Emma had woken nearly every night with the nightmares.  The haunted look had finally begun to leave her face; the fear to leave her eyes.  Killian knew her excitement over this Christmas holiday was a large factor, and for that alone, he would adore this holiday to the end of his days.

Killian sighed softly to himself, careful not to let his small family hear the wistful sound.  He was happy; truly he was.  Having Emma as his wife, Henry as his son…it was more than he could have ever dreamed.  Not for anything in all the realms would he give up this life he was privileged to lead.

This holiday, this Christmas, it put such emphasis on love, on family joining together.  He loved Emma and Henry with all his heart; he was profoundly humbled and grateful for the way Emma’s parents had welcomed him with open arms into their family.  (Even now, some three months later, his eyes still welled remembering the moment he realized not only Emma and her lad, but her parents, Regina and Locksley had all travelled to the Underworld for him, because they cared about him, because they couldn’t stand the thought of him being gone from their lives.)

Even so, there was a bit of bitterness mixed in with the sweet.  The truth was, Killian missed his family—his beloved brother and the father he’d been privileged to reconcile with in the Underworld.  It had been a beautiful time among the horror and ashes, and Killian would never be able to fully express his gratitude to Emma for agreeing to wed him there, in the underworld with Liam as officiant and his papa as witness.

But all things must come to an end.  When he and Emma succeeded in breaking Hades’ stranglehold over the Underworld, his father and brother had finally been ushered to their eternal reward in the land of paradise.  Killian had willingly returned to the land of the living with his new wife at his side, secure in the knowledge that the two men he loved more than anyone in any realm (save for the woman beside him) were finally happy and at peace.

Henry ran ahead up the steps and knocked on the Charmings’ door, his gift for Grandma and Gramps held proudly in his free hand.  A moment later, the lady Snow opened the door and soon enveloped each of them, in turn, in a warm, motherly hug.

“So glad you guys got here!” she said, ushering them inside.  “Dinner’s almost ready.”

Killian looked around at the assembled group, the Charmings, the young prince Neal, Regina and Robin with their children–all smiled happily, talking and laughing, welcoming him with joy.  It was enough.  It was far more than enough; far more than he’d ever thought to have.  Far more than enough to push the tiny ache of loss to the far corner of his mind. 

“Smells good in here!” Henry said, peering into the oven.  “Did you make your famous lasagna, mom?”

Regina ruffled Henry’s hair.  “That I did.  And my apple turnovers—and don’t worry, Miss Swan…er…Mrs. Jones, this batch is completely free of sleeping curse—for dessert.”

“Awesome!” Henry said.  “Can we eat?”

“In just a minute kid,” Emma said.  “We just have to wait until a couple more people get here.”

Killian looked around in surprise.  It appeared the family was all assembled.  “Who else are we missing, love?”

Emma shared a look with her parents, and Killian noticed the tears in her eyes, the secret smile on her face.

Charming stepped forward, holding out a small, non-descript canteen, which Killian automatically took.  “Hook…Killian,” he began, “before Merida took the portal back to her land, she gave us a gift as a token of her appreciation.  That canteen you’re holding.” 

“That was…thoughtful,” Killian said, staring in bemusement at the object in question.

“Yes, it was.  It really was,” Snow said, stepping forward in her turn, “but it’s not the canteen, but the ale that’s in it that’s the real gift.”

“Killian,” Emma said, smiling up at him.  “It’s not just any ale.  It’s a special ale Merida got from a witch in her land.  The person who pours it on the ground can bring back loved ones who have passed on—temporarily at least.”

Killian’s eyes widened, and he shot startled looks at all of them.  “You mean…you mean, I could bring…?”

“Yeah,” Charming said.  “We discussed it, and we all agreed.  That last cup of ale should go to you.  Emma wanted to make your first Christmas special; she thought you might like to invite your own family to our feast.”

Killian’s vision blurred as he looked down at his wife.  “You’d do this for me, love?”

She reached up and cupped his face, bringing him down for a quick kiss.  “I’d do anything for you, Killian.  I thought you’d know that by now.  I know how much you miss them, and, well, I just wanted to make you happy.”

Killian smiled shakily, returning her kiss, brushing away a tear from her cheek.  “You do make me happy, love.  Every day you make me happy.  I wouldn’t trade our life together for anything.” 

“I know,” she said with a smile, “but it doesn’t mean you don’t miss those you’ve lost.  I get that.  I really do.  So, when I found out there was a way to bring them back for the afternoon, I hopped right on that.  Besides, I think it would be amazing to have the whole family together for Christmas. 

“I love you,” he said, swooping in for another kiss.

“And I love you.”

“All of this love is great,” Regina drawled, “but you think we could get on with it?  My lasagna just came out of the oven, and if it gets cold because of your yearning looks and doe eyes, I might start throwing fireballs.”

Killian grinned.  “I wouldn’t dare risk such a thing, your majesty.”

Taking a deep breath, he pulled the stopper from the canteen and poured its contents on the floor of the Charming’s loft.  Before it hit the ground, it transformed into a fine, golden mist, and when it cleared Liam and Brennan Jones stood before him, brilliant grins draping their handsome faces.

“It looks like you’ve done quite well for yourself, little brother,” Liam said, stepping forward.

“I think you mean ‘younger’ brother,” Killian said, voice suspiciously gravelly, before launching himself into his brother’s arms.

~c~s~c~s~c~s~c~s~c~s~

Several hours later, Emma lay in bed with her head cushioned on her true love’s chest.  She reached up and absently fiddled with the charms on his necklace as she listened to the winter wind howl outside. 

Killian leaned down and captured her lips in a tender kiss that went on and on.  When it finally came to an end, she rested her forehead against his.

“Not that I’m complaining, but what was that about?” She asked, smiling at him.

“I love you so bloody much, Emma, sometimes I cannot contain myself.”

She chuckled, settling back in against his chest and planting a quick kiss against the space above his heart.  “I love you too.  So how was your first Christmas?  Did it live up to all the hype?”

Killian was silent for a moment, absently running his fingers through her hair.  “It was everything I could have imagined and far more, love.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.  You will never know what those two hours with my brother and my father meant to me.”

“I think I can guess,” she said.  “We’re kindred spirits, remember?  The lost boy and the lost girl who finally found each other.”

“Not lost anymore, love,” he said, and she felt the deep rumble of his voice as much as she heard it.  “Though we each possess but half a heart now, mine has never felt so whole or complete.  Liam may have spoken of all the wonders he’s found in paradise, but I’d wager no wonder could compare to having you here in my arms on this Christmas night.

                                                                                  NEXT CHAPTER-->

[prettyswellaus]

(Farm Sim AU) Movie Theater

The movie theater is one of the establishments of the town of Cordia. It has it's roots as a old-timey theater both for plays and movies.

Edd can purchase a ticket for 1,000g and can even buy another ticket for the same price to give to one of the townsfolk in the same way gifts are given.

Bringing a townsfolk to a loved movie will grant a good amount of friendship points, bringing them to a liked movie grants a small amount of friendship points, and bringing them to a disliked movie decreases their friendship points a little bit.

Watching a movie takes an hour of game time, and Edd can only watch a movie twice a week

Bing likes all movies, due to his love for film, regardless of genre.

Movies

The movie shown changes out every season over the course of 3 years (repeating once third year's lineup is over), there is a schedule outside near the entrance to the theater to keep track of what movie is showing and which one is coming up.

Cola is Forever

"A tight-knit group of spies are tasked with saving the world from a global cola conspiracy."

Season: Spring Year 1

Genres: Action and Comedy

Love: Tord, Blaze, and Blade.

Like: Tom, Matt, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Dawn, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Larry, Kim, Katya, Diwi, Vince, and Emilia.

Dislike: Eduardo and Mark.

Sugar Sugar

"The familiar and the fantastic collide as an bond that's sweet as sugar forms between a simple gardener and an outcast who's more than meets the eye."

Available: Summer Year 1

Genre: Romance

Love: Matt, Jon, Jordan, Kim, and Katya.

Like: Blaze, Dusk, Mark, Laurel, Patryck, Bing, Diwi, Vince, and Emilia.

Dislike: Tom*, Tord, Eduardo, Blade, Dawn, Paul, and Larry.

(*Tom will later love the film if Edd gives him a bouquet when he reaches 8 hearts of friendship with him, which indicates romantic interest for the bachelor/bachelorette who is given the bouquet.)

Dawn of The Edd

"Five friends are caught in the midst of an outbreak of the ravenous undead, but what happens when a prey becomes a predator?"

Available: Fall Year 1

Genre: Action and Horror

Love: Tord, Dawn, Blade

Like: Tom, Eduardo, Bing, Paul, Patryck, Diwi, Laurel, and Katya

Dislike: Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Jon, Mark, Jordan, Larry, Kim, Vince, Emilia.

The Year Without Christmas

"The king of a holly jolly kingdom has grown disillusioned with his duties and decides to venture out to find his true calling."

Available: Winter Year 1

Genres: Fantasy and Adventure

Love: Matt, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Laurel, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Like: Tord, Blaze, Mark, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Katya, Diwi

Dislike: Tom, Eduardo, Blade, Dawn

Somnians: Dream On

"A race of magical dream defenders must protect their world from the nightmarish forces of Umbriel and his Tantabi minions."

Available: Spring Year 2

Genres: Fantasy and Adventure

Love: Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Laurel

Like: Blade, Bing, Larry, Kim, Katya, Diwi, Vince, and Emilia

Dislike: Tom, Tord, Eduardo, Dawn, Paul

Red Edd Redemption

"Detective Edward Gold enlists the help of the local sheriff of Spitbucket, USA to find the missing prince of the London royal family. But as crime rates rise in town, the detective must prove his worth."

Available: Summer Year 2

Genre: Western

Love: Tom, Tord, Eduardo, Mark, Blade, Paul, Patryck, Diwi, Vince

Like: Jon, Jordan, Laurel, Bing, Larry, Emilia

Dislike: Blaze and Dusk

The London Axe Massacre

"A fun night at home becomes a bloodbath for five roommates when an axe wielding maniac comes in to bury the hatchet...in their skulls!"

Available: Fall Year 2

Genre: Horror

Love: Tord, Eduardo, Dawn, Katya

Like: Tom, Blaze, Blade, Paul, Patryck, Bing,

Dislike: Matt, Dusk, Jon, Mark, Jordan, Laurel, Larry, Kim, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Every Time a Bell Rings

"What if there was a world where you never existed? Thanks to his guardian angel, a young man finds out the answer just as his hope starts to run dry during the most wonderful time of the year."

Available: Winter Year 2

Genres: Fantasy and Drama

Love: Jon, Jordan, Laurel, Vince, Emilia

Like: Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Kim, Diwi

Dislike: Tom, Tord, Eduardo, Blade, Dawn, Paul, Katya

A Toy's Life

“There's no time like playtime as a new plushie comes into the ownership of a young kid named Danny. But not everyone's happy about the new addition to the home..."

Available: Spring Year 3

Genre: Comedy

Love: Matt, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Diwi, Emilia, Vince

Like: Tom, Tord, Blaze, Eduardo, Mark, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Kim, Larry, Katya

Dislike: Dawn

The Big Named Monster

“Tough Hero Guy and his sidekick Nerd must brave the apocalypse to take down the Super Powerful Demon Mutant Zombie Pirate Magic Ninja Evil Overlord from Hell and Outer Space and the army of giant crabs that plague the land.”

Available: Summer Year 3

Genres: Action and Comedy

Love: Tom, Matt, Tord, Blaze, Bing

Like: Laurel, and Diwi

Dislike: Dusk, Eduardo, Jon, Mark, Jordan, Dawn, Larry, Paul, Patryck, Kim, Katya, Vince, Emilia

A London Vampire in America

“It was supposed to be a regular trip from Britain to America for a group of friends. That is until one of them ends up getting bitten by a vampire! Now a vampire himself, can he curb the craving for blood? Or will his friends’ blood banks run dry?”

Available: Fall Year 3

Genre: Horror and Comedy

Love: Blaze, Eduardo, Blade, Laurel, Larry, Katya, Diwi

Like: Tom, Tord, Matt, Dawn, Mark, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Kim

Dislike: Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Vince, Emilia

Zanta’s Slay

“You better watch out and you better not cry. For when Zanta Claws comes to to town, lumps of coal will be the least of your worries…”

Available: Winter Year 3

Genre: Horror

Love: Tord, Eduardo, Blade

Like: Tom, Blaze, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Katya, Diwi

Dislike: Matt, Dusk, Jon, Mark, Jordan, Larry, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Concessions

Edd can purchase snacks and drinks from the concession counter for his guest. Purchasing a loved snack/drink of the guest gives 50 friendship points, purchasing a liked snack/drink of the guest gives 25 friendship points, and getting a disliked snack/drink decreases 10 friendship points.

(Note: Some choices for likes and dislikes are a bit random or based on "I think this character would like/dislike this" stuff I made up.)

Cola

"The fizzy drink perfect for any occasion!"

Love: Tord, Blaze, Laurel, Katya

Like: Tom, Matt, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Blade, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Eduardo, Mark, Dawn, Larry

Diet Cola

"The fizzy drink for any occasion, now with fewer calories!"

Love: Eduardo

Like: Tom, Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Blade, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Mark, Dawn, Larry

Lemonade

"A refreshing glass of sweetened lemon juice, perfect on warm summer days."

Love: Blaze, Patryck, Diwi

Like: Tom, Matt, Tord, Dusk, Eduardo, Mark, Jon, Jordan, Paul, Bing, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Blade Dawn

Tea

"A warm cup of tea, flavors include black, earl grey, green, white chamomile, black, and matcha."

Love: Mark, Larry, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Like: Matt, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Blade, Laurel, Patryck, Katya, Diwi

Dislike: Tom, Tord, Blaze, Eduardo, Dawn, Paul, Bing

Iced Tea

"A cold refreshing beverage those who prefer their tea on the colder side."

Love: Mark, Blade, Larry, Vince, Emilia, Patryck

Like: Tom, Matt, Tord, Eduardo, Jon, Jordan, Laurel, Paul, Kim, Katya, Diwi

Dislike: Blaze, Dawn, Bing

Slushie

"A chilling concotion of ice and a flavor of choice. Flavors include cherry, blue raspberry, cola, orange, lemonade, green apple, root beer, grape, and watermelon"

Love: Tom, Tord, Blaze, Dusk, Jon, Laurel, Paul, Katya, Kim, Diwi, Vince

Like: Matt, Eduardo, Mark, Jordan, Blade, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Emilia

Dislike: Dawn

Kale Smoothie

"For the more health conscious crowd, it's packed with vitamins and fiber"

Love: Jordan

Like: Eduardo, Jon, Mark, Larry, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Tom, Tord, Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Blade, Dawn, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Katya, Diwi

Milkshake

"A blend of milk and ice cream served in a glass. Flavors include vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, mint chocolate, neapolitan, cookies and cream, banana, and salted caramel."

Love: Blaze, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Laurel, Bing, Kim, Katya, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Like: Tom, Tord, Matt, Eduardo, Mark, Blade, Paul, Patryck, Larry

Dislike: Dawn

Apple Slices

"Crisp and sweet slices of honeycrisp and granny smith apples"

Love: Jon, Jordan

Like: Tom, Matt, Tord, Matt, Blaze, Eduardo, Mark, Blade, Paul, Laurel, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Kim, Katya, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Dusk, Dawn

Chips n' Hummus

"A pack of pita chips served with hearty hummus dip."

Love: Mark, Jordan, Blade, Patryck, Kim, Vince

Like: Tom, Tord, Eduardo, Jon, Laurel, Katya, Diwi, Emilia

Dislike: Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Dawn, Paul, Bing, Larry

Panzanella Salad

"A healthy blend of tomatoes, bread, bell pepper, and cucumber all in one bowl."

Love: Mark, Jordan, Blade, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Like: Tom, Matt, Eduardo, Jon, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Larry, Katya, Diwi

Dislike: Tord, Blaze, Dusk, Dawn, Bing,

Salted Peanuts

"A classic healthy treat"

Love: Jordan, Blade, Patryck

Like: Tom, Tord, Jon, Mark, Laurel, Paul, Bing, Larry, Kim, Katya, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Eduardo, Dawn

Popcorn

"The classic movie snack, now seasoned with garlic butter!"

Love: Pretty much everyone else

Like: N/A

Dislike: Matt

Cheddar Corn

"The classic movie snack infused with cheddar cheese flavor."

Love: Pretty much everyone

Like: N/A

Dislike: No One

Chocolate Popcorn

"The classic movie snack coated with sweet milk chocolate."

Love: Pretty much everyone else

Like: N/A

Dislike: Dawn

Nachos

"A basket of crispy crunchy tortilla ships. Comes with guacamole, salsa, or nacho cheese!"

Love: Tord, Blaze, Eduardo, Jordan, Dawn, Katya

Like: Tom, Matt, Dusk, Jon, Blade, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Kim, Vince

Dislike: Mark, Larry, Emilia*

*They don't dislike it because of the taste, but because it's notoriously messy.

French Fries

"Thin slices of fried potatoes seasoned generously with salt."

Love: Blaze

Like: Everyone Else

Dislike: N/A

Personal Pizza

"A pizza small enough to enjoy as a snack."

Love: Tom, Tord, Blaze, Dusk, Eduardo, Jon, Mark, Blade, Dawn, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Kim, Katya, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Like: N/A

Dislike: Matt*, Jordan

*He does not like it because the crust is seasoned with garlic

Vegetarian Personal Pizza

"A veggie loaded pizza small enough to enjoy as a snack."

Love: Tom, Tord, Eduardo, Jon, Mark, Blade, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Kim, Katya, Diwi, Vince, Emilia

Like: Blaze

Dislike: Dusk, Dawn

Burger

"A beef patty, lettuce, cheese, tomato, onions, ketchup, and mustard sandwiched between two sesame buns."

Love: Matt, Tord, Blaze, Laurel, Paul, Katya, Vince

Like: Tom, Eduardo, Jon, Blade, Dawn, Patryck, Bing, Kim, Diwi, Emilia

Dislike: Dusk* Mark, Jordan, Larry

*Does not like the onion in the burger

Salmon Burger

"A salmon fillet, lettuce, mayonaise, and mustard sandwiched between two brioche buns."

Love: Tom, Jordan, Blade, Patryck, Kim, Vince

Like: Tord, Blaze, Dusk, Eduardo, Jon, Mark, Laurel, Paul, Bing, Larry, Katya, Diwi, Emilia

Dislike: Matt, Dawn

Hot Dog

"A beef frank tucked in a wheat bun topped with ketchup, mustard, and relish."

Love: Tord, Dusk, Eduardo, Jon, Blade, Patryck, Kim, Vince, Emilia, Diwi

Like: Tom, Matt, Blaze, Mark, Dawn, Laurel, Paul, Bing, Larry, Katya,

Dislike: Jordan

Sea Dog

"A salmon "sausage" tucked in a wheat bun, topped with tartar sauce, shredded lettuce, and paprika."

Love: Tom, Jon, Mark, Jordan, Blade, Patryck, Larry, Kim, Vince, Emilia, Diwi

Like: Tord, Blaze, Dusk, Eduardo, Laurel, Paul, Bing, Katya

Dislike: Matt, Dawn

Black Licorice

"A chewy candy with a pungent taste, only one person seems to like this..."

Love: Larry

Like: No one else on the face of this earth

Dislike: Literally everyone else

Pucker-Up Youngsters

"Gummies resembling little children in assorted flavors coated in sour sugar crystals."

Love: Blaze, Dusk, Eduardo, Blade, Dawn, Katya, Diwi

Like: Tom, Tord, Jon, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Matt, Mark, Jordan, Larry

Jawbreaker

"A sphere of hard candy with a bubblegum center that can last the entire movie!"

Love: Tom, Jon, Laurel, Katya

Like: Matt, Tord, Blaze, Dusk, Eduardo, Jordan, Blade, Paul, Bing, Diwi, Vince

Dislike: Mark, Dawn, Patryck, Larry, Kim, Emilia

Rock Candy

"Flavored sugar crystals attached to a stick. Available in cherry, orange, lemon, green apple, blue raspberry, grape, and watermelon flavors!"

Love: Tord, Dusk, Eduardo, Blade, Laurel, Paul, Katya, Diwi

Like: Tom, Matt, Blaze, Jon, Mark, Jordan, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Dawn

Cotton Candy

"A whispy cloud of sugar suspended on a paper cone. Available in pink or blue!"

Love: Matt, Dusk, Jon, Jordan, Laurel, Kim, Katya, Diwi

Like: Tom, Tord, Blaze, Eduardo, Mark, Blade, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Dawn

Ice Cream Sandwich

"A slab of vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two chocolate cookies."

Love: Dusk, Jon, Laurel, Katya, Diwi

Like: Tom, Tord, Blaze, Eduardo, Jordan, Mark, Blade, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Kim Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Matt, Dawn

Shaved Ice

"Crushed ice piled together and flavored with syrup. Available syrups include cherry, orange, lemon, green apple, blue raspberry, grape, watermelon, cola, and root beer."

Love: Tom, Tord, Blaze, Dusk, Jon, Laurel, Paul, Katya, Kim, Diwi, Vince

Like: Matt, Eduardo, Mark, Jordan, Blade, Patryck, Bing, Larry, Emilia

Dislike: Dawn

Kindleberry Sorbet

"Just a bit of kindleberry extract turns this sorbet into a tantalizing treat!"

Love: Everyone except Matt and Dawn

Like: N/A

Dislike: Matt and Dawn

Arcade

The theatre houses a small arcade with four arcade games. Edd can play these games to earn prize tickets, which he can trade for prizes that switch out every season.

Claw Machine

Maneuver the claw to grab prizes, ranging from decor items, ticket rings, and even rare items. Each the scene inside of claw machine changes each season. Each play costs 500g

Bang, Boom, Splat!

A shooting gallery type game, which essentially plays the same as the flash game. Each play costs 100g

Sway Sway Revolution

A dancing game ala Dance Dance Revolution, player chooses a song and tries to play in time with the arrows. Each play costs 100g

Skee Ball

Roll the balls in the holes to accumulate a high score. Each play costs 100g.

Theater Boat Movies

The Theater Boat appears during the Starlit Market. The Theater Boat shows two movies, one on the first three days of the Starlit Market, and the other on the remaining days of the event.

Return of The Insane Zombie Pirates from Hell

“All hell breaks loose as the Insane Zombie Pirates from Hell are back, and they’re back for seconds!”

Available: Summer 22nd through Summer 24th

Genre: Horror

Love: Tord, Blade, Dawn,

Like: Tom, Eduardo, Laurel, Bing, Diwi, Katya

Dislike: Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Jon, Mark, Jordan, Larry, Kim, Vince, Emilia.

Star Journeys: The Wrath of Red

"A space ranger's mission to find the captured prince of an alien planet ends up unraveling an even greater conspiracy."

Available: Summer 25th and 26th

Genre: Sci-fi and Adventure

Love: Tom, Tord, Mark, Larry, Katya

Like: Matt, Blaze, Dusk, Eduardo, Jon, Jordan, Blade, Laurel, Paul, Patryck, Bing, Kim, Vince, Emilia

Dislike: Dawn

References

Each of the films are based on and reference to either other AU's, Eddisodes, or actual films from said Eddisodes.

Cola is Forever: Spy AU, title from "Diamonds are Forever"

Sugar Sugar: Candy AU, title from the The Archies song

Dawn of The Edd: Zombeh Attack Trilogy, title from "Dawn of The Dead"

The Year Without Christmas: Holiday AU

Somnians: Dream On: Dream AU

Red Edd Redemption: Saloonantics, title from "Red Dead Redemption"

The London Axe Massacre: Halloween 2007 Special, title from "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre"

Every Time a Bell Rings: Christmas 2005 Special, title from the line from "It's a Wonderful Life"

A Toy's Life: Toy AU, title from "A Bug's Life"

The Big Named Monster: Movie from "Spares" eddisode

A London Vampire in America: Matt Sucks, title from "An American Werewolf in London"

Zanta's Slay: Zanta Claws, title from "Santa's Slay"

Return of The Insane Zombie Pirates From Hell: Movie mentioned in Hello Hellhole and The End

Star Journeys: The Wrath of Red: Space AU, title from "Star Trek: The Wrath of Kahn

[charlessmithhasmyheart]

Title: Hunting Hijinks

Genre: Romance

Type: Charles x Reader

Triggers: None

A/N: Hey hey hey! This is a gift for the lovely @fangirl-ramblings. When I got the message that I was your secret santa, I was super excited! You are defs one of the people who I would consider to be my biggest supporter throughout this blog endeavor. Seriously! I would like to apologize for how long this took, but I wanted to make sure I was happy with everything before posting.

I know you had requested something about several people, so I chose Charles! Hope this is to your liking.

Here ya go! :)

____________________________

The sun was slowly sinking, the fire in front of you easily becoming your only source of light. The camp and it’s residents had been in the process of setting down for the night. Everyone but you. You were sitting on a log lost in thought, head resting in your hands as you stared into the flames; the object of your contemplation being none other than the mysterious Charles Smith.

Of course, this was of no surprise to you. It had been happening quite frequently. Charles was on your mind a lot. Especially since you had officially become a member of the Van Der Linde Gang.

A small smile began to tug at your lips as you recalled your first encounter with the illustrious group of outlaws.

You had been a bounty hunter then. Well, you hadn’t really been a true bounty hunter. You were just taking odd jobs from the wanted posters around Valentine and Saint Denis. It wasn’t the best work, but it paid well when you succeeded. And you did.

Believe it or not, you had actually met them during one of your jobs. You had been tracking a particularly elusive criminal for a few days. He had held up the general store and robbed a few of the townsfolk. Killed some too. The sheriff was adamant that he was brought back; alive or dead, it didn’t matter.

You were on the trail, the tracks very fresh when suddenly gunfire broke out ahead of you. Intrigued, you spurred your mount on only to come face to face with a shoot out. The target in question was crouched behind an over turned wagon, his own horse dead, as bullets from his attackers, three of them, soared through the air.

Determined to be the one to bring him to justice, you pulled your own gun from its holster and spurred your mount on again. Unfortunately the criminal, in what you can only assume to be a moment of stupidity, peaked from around the wagon, pistol loaded, only to receive a bullet to the face. With him now dead, the attacker’s switched their attention to you, guns still drawn. A curse slipped from your lips as you brought your horse to an abrupt stop.

“You take one step closer miss, and I cannot promise you’ll get away unharmed.” Warned their leader, who you later on learned to be Dutch.

When you made no move to speak he continued.

“Now I suggest you lower your weapon and we can talk this out. I see no reason for any more blood-shed.” He spoke, lowering his own weapon and signaling for the others in his group to do the same.

It took a moment, but you complied and re-holstered your weapon. Then came the conversation that would change your life. You had explained how you were a bounty hunter, making money to survive on your own after your family had died. Dutch responded in kind; giving you the run down of his gang, and, when he was finished, offered you a place to stay. After all, a woman of your abilities would be beneficial to their cause. Seeing as you had no better options, you accepted.

When you had arrived at their campsite at Horseshoe Overlook, you were introduced to many people who, despite being outlaws, were some of the most kind and hardworking people you had ever met. You fit right in, quickly developed relationships with many of the gang members, and the rest was history.

But despite all that, there was one member that you still hadn’t been able to understand.

When you had first been introduced to Charles, he barely mumbled a greeting or looked in your direction before heading of to complete some chore. You had brushed it off in the beginning, assuming you would find time to get to know him later. Now, it was later, and you knew next to nothing other than you had developed feelings for him.

It was all so odd. How could you develop feelings for someone who wouldn’t speak to you, let alone even look at you in the eyes? Sure, you had admired his silent nature, his penchant for taking on the difficult or unappealing jobs and his kindness with the other gang members from afar. Not to mention, he himself wasn’t unappealing to look at. But it still frustrated you to no end because you knew that he wouldn’t feel the same way. Charles had made it perfectly clear, without speaking, how he felt about you.

Stifling a groan, you rubbed a hand over your face, your frustration beginning to build to unhealthy levels.

“Something the matter [Y/N]? You’ve been sitting there an awfully long time.”

You jumped at the sound of someone’s voice and turned to see Hosea strolling towards you, a curious look on his face.

“I’m fine, Hosea.” You replied as he eased into a chair on the other side of the fire. “Just tired is all.”

“I may be old,” he started. “But not so that I can’t recognize when someone’s troubled. What’s bothering you my dear?”

You shifted your gaze from the fire to Hosea. He was leaning back in the chair, arms folded in his lap, with his eyes fixed on you. There was nothing but concern and a honest want to help you in them. He had always been like that. When you were struggling to learn the ways of the outlaw life, Hosea had been with you every step of the way. Making sure you knew the best hunting spots, helping you tend to your chores, and keeping your spirits up whenever you got discouraged. But, expressing your thoughts of Charles out loud? That was different. You didn’t know if you could.

“I don’t really know, if I’m bein’ honest.” You responded finally. “I’m just trying to sort out my feelings.”

And you were. Trying and failing, but you were trying. No matter how hard you tried you couldn’t convince yourself to forget.

“Your feelings for Charles?” He stated matter-of-factly.

You snapped your head up, heat beginning to rise in your face as you tried to stammer out a response.

“How did you know— I mean. I never said—”

Hosea chuckled and splayed his hands out in a calming gesture.

“Like I said. I may be old, but I still know a thing or two. And the way you look at the man when you think no one is paying attention? I’d say you were smitten.” He teased, winking at you.

You stared, dumbfounded and unsure of what to say. If Hosea knew, surely others in the camp knew. And if they knew, did that mean Charles knew as well? And if Charles knew then... No. You weren’t even going to consider the thought.

“You know what? I think I’m gonna turn in for the night.” You stated, pushing yourself off the log and heading towards your tent, refusing to look at Hosea anymore lest you get sucked into a full blown confession.

“You know,” He called after you. “It’ll just get worse the longer you keep it to yourself.”

You gave a half-hearted flick of you hand, the only indication that you had heard his words as you continued to walk through the camp.

——————————

The next morning proved to be no better. The minute you had opened your eyes, your thoughts immediately went to Charles. And Hosea’s advice. When you had finally settled into bed last night, you had pondered what he had said. Maybe it would be in your best interest to talk to him, but the fear of his first words to you being full of hate was too much, and you had drifted off late into the night.

Groaning, you pushed yourself to your feet, ready to distract yourself with the days work. You grabbed your hat from where it had fallen on the floor during sleep and stepped out of your tent. The morning sun shone through the campsite and the warmth felt good on your face. A cup of coffee sounded like a good way to start your day so you headed towards the communal pot; Abigail and Pearson already there with cups in hand.

“Morning [Y/N].” Pearson called out. “Any specific plans for your day yet?”

“Other then my daily chores? No.” You responded, pouring the dark liquid into your tin mug. “Why?”

“Well,” he began. “We’re getting low on food supplies and I can’t remember the last time anyone went hunting. Think you’re up for the task?”

“Sure,” you replied between sips. “I’ll head out right now.”

Pearson grunted his thanks and returned to his own mug. It felt good to finally have some sense of normalcy thrust upon you, so you were more than happy to comply. Nodding your head at Abigail, you finished your coffee; the warmth of the liquid reaching and energizing every part of your body before heading towards the horses.

Hunting hadn’t always been a skill that you particularly excelled at, but when you had expressed your unease with the chore during your first weeks with the gang, Hosea had wasted no time with setting up lessons with Arthur. Originally he would have asked Charles to do it, but every time he had mysteriously disappeared, leaving you wondering what accursed thing you had done to receive the cold shoulder. And hunting with Arthur wasn’t so bad. Of course, he was a little moody at times and his patience wasn’t always there, but you learned. You considered yourself to be quite the hunter nowadays.

Having now reached your horse, you ran your fingers through her mane and cooed soft encouragements before swinging yourself into the saddle. Grabbing the reins, you clicked your tongue and eased her towards he camp entrance.

“[Y/N], hold up!”

You brought your horse to a halt, startled, and turned in the saddle. You were surprised and a bit worried as Hosea sped up towards you, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

“Are you going out?” He inquired, an odd look that you couldn’t quite place etched on his face.

“Yes,” you replied hesitantly. “Pearson asked me to. Why?”

“Why don’t you take Charles with you, huh? He’s quite the hunter himself.” Without waiting for a reply he called out to Charles who was sharpening a knife. “Hey Charles! You up for some hunting? [Y/N], here could use some assistance.”

It was in that moment that your heart beat began to quicken; from anger and from nervousness at the thought of thee Charles Smith hunting with you. Alone. In the woods. With no one around for miles. Oh, would Hosea be getting an ear-full once you returned. Well, maybe you’d say if. The possibility of you running away forever from sheer embarrassment was entirely plausible.

“There now,” Hosea continued, clapping Charles on the shoulder with his hand. “I’m sure the two of you can scrounge up some food for the lot of us. And don’t come back until you do.”

You shot Hosea a burning look as he sauntered away, whistling a tune the whole while. Charles barely glanced at you as he pulled himself onto his own mount, Taima, and encouraged her towards the edge of camp. You followed suite without a word.

————————

You gripped the bow tightly in your hands, trying to rack your brain for anything to say as Charles walked beside you. The silence between the two of you was uncomfortable. At least, that’s how you felt about it, and, frankly, you couldn’t deal with the fact that the man you had pined for months over was finally capable of staying close to you. Deciding you’ve had enough, you lowered your weapon and turned to face him.

“Why do you hate me?”

“Excuse me?”

“Why do you hate me?” You repeated, crossing your arms.

Charles’ eyes widened as he took in your words, and a strange look crossed his face. You started to feel guilty as you waited for a response. You had come across as a bit rude. It wasn’t what you were going for, but the words just came out without any thought. But, now that you were in this predicament, you decided you were going to keep going.

“I don’t hate you,” Charles finally spoke.

“Well, then have I done something to upset you? I’ve been with the gang for months now and you’ve said all of six words to me.”

Another long moment of silence ensued. Finally deciding you’ve had enough, you tightened the grip on your bow and turned to leave, tears pricking at the corner of your eyes. Before you could reach your horse, however, you felt a hand grasp your arm and you found yourself twisted around and a pair of lips locking with yours’. You tensed for barely a second as your mind tried to register what was happening. You were kissing Charles. Or, rather, he was kissing you. And it felt like you had always imagined it to be. When he broke away, you stared, dumbfounded.

“I don’t hate you, [Y/N],” He said, reaching out to take your hand his large calloused one. “I never have. In fact, it’s the opposite.”

“Charles,” You uttered, barely a whisper.

“Ever since the first day you stepped into camp, I knew there was something special about you. I was just too afraid to say anything.” Charles confessed. “I didn’t know how to say anything, because I didn’t know how you would feel.”

His dark eyes locked with yours and you could see the sincerity and fear swirling around in them. A small smile tugged at your lips. There was only one way you felt you could express your true feelings. You reached a hand up to cup his cheek and pulled him into another kiss.

Time seemed to stop. Your heart beat just as quick as you pressed your lips against his in a gentle fashion. His strong fingers brushed tentatively against the back of your neck while your own hand tangled amongst his dark locks. You placed your other hand against his chest and grasped at the loose fabric of his shirt, feeling a hunger your had never felt welling up inside you. Charles, sensing this, slipped a hand down to the small of your back and pulled you flush to him.

The kiss lasted for what felt like years before you finally pulled away, both of you breathing hard and a shine in his eyes that you no doubt mirrored.

“Do you know how I feel now?” You teased.

“Yes, I think so.” Charles chuckled, entwining his fingers with your own. You smiled warmly at him.

“Maybe we should get back to hunting then?” You inquired. “There’s a certain someone I need to have a chat with when we get back. And then, maybe we can have a chat of our own, hmm?”

Charles suppressed another laugh, placed a kiss on your cheek before resuming the hold on his own bow, and traipsed deeper into the woods. The memory of that kiss would reside in your mind as you finished the hunt and it would carry on until later in the evening when you and Charles had another moment alone.

[jeon-googi]

Eros

— pairing: Greek God!Jungkook x Mortal!reader

 — genre: Fantasy, romance

 —Synopsis: The God of Love Jungkook always took his job seriously, that is, until he meets you.

— words: 2.2k

— rating: SFW-ish

— warnings: implied smut

— notes: I decided to make my first au series and after Bangbangcon last night, I wanted it to be BTS! These are going to be slight retellings of greek myths featuring our fave boys, this one was inspired by Eros and Psyche, I hope you enjoy! (not proofread again I’m sorry) 

-

Within the entirety of the land, it was rumored you were by far the most beautiful person any human could ever lay eyes on.

In fact dear reader, you even made the GODS jealous with how attractive you were. 

Rumors of your beauty stretched far and wide bringing many potential suitors but to be honest all of them were a bit scared because???? It seemed a little fishy honestly showing up to your quaint cottage??

A LOT of them would wind up leaving for fear of you being a monster or a trap or something but nope! You were you! 

Honestly it was getting a bit lonely when everyone was scared to approach you. 

Most thought you were SURELY going to get cursed because how could you be so beautiful??? It made no sense???

So you lived by yourself in your little cottage full of flowers and animals.

…..Little did you know…

You weren’t alone!

Or at least

Not completely!

You had a secret admirer!

Or at least that’s what you called it.

Most days you wake up and there would be a single lilly placed on your doorstep, 

The first time it happened you were a bit surprised! Most people never even stepped foot on your property

Yet here was this beautiful flower!!! Just for you!!!

You picked it up twirling it in your hand with a smile, shutting your front door

Reader not only were you beautiful to mortals

You were beautiful to the gods as well

 Jungkook first saw you when he was just flying over your town in the middle of a request from the god of beauty and romance, Jimin

Jungkook wasn’t a major god oh no, he was a god of love so he worked closely with Jimin, often doing small deeds for him.

But since he wasn’t a major god! He got a lot of freetime to mingle around the mortal realm

That specific day he saw you, you were in quite a pickle actually.

You had ventured into town to get some produce when the townsfolk started to act really nasty to you, mean comments under their breath and even going as far as to gather around you! Yelling at you to get out of the town!

Jungkook frowned because typically this town was rather peaceful, so the loud crowd got his attention.

Floating in closer he watched from the top of the buildings to see

You.

Your eyes were watering as you grabbed your basket, trying to retreat out of the crowd but they grabbed onto you and lets just say Jungkook was FLAMED

But! He wasn’t allowed to intervene with human affairs unless ordered to! 

Eventually the crowd eased up enough for you to escape back to your home, but honestly you did not hold too much anger towards them after all they were just scared.

Sighing, you placed your basket on your counter and retreated to your garden for some much needed YOU time. 

Jungkook watched from the trees by your house, moved by your strength!  

While he had followed you back to your home, he just so happened to pick up some fruit. 

He was a god so he really didn’t need to eat so he quickly floated into your home, placing the produce in your basket. 

And being the sweetheart he is

He left one single lilly as a gift.

Watching from his hiding spot, he grinned as you stared at your basket confused, but smiled happily when seeing the flower.

Lets just say reader, you had his heart.

Since that day he made a routine route that passed over your village, and he would leave one flower just so he could see you smile. 

You honestly really appreciated the gifts, making sure you always said a small thank you outloud. 

Cue Jungkook holding his heart because wow he’s whipped for you

Your beauty was divine yes but Jungkook was a god of love! So he began to fall for the little things that made you so lovable to him

The way you sang when you gardened

The way you fed the small animals in your yard

The way you cuddled under your blankets when it was cold

Jungkook was IN LOVE

This little exchange went on for a while between you two, but soon Jungkook decided he really wanted to meet you!

He wanted to go shopping with you and grow flowers with you and dare he say HOLD YOUR HAND

For being a god of love Jungkook was very sweet and honestly he just wanted the chance to meet you reader.

That is how he currently stood in front of his friend/boss Jimin begging with all his might for some help!

“Jungkook you could literally just go talk to her.”

“But there are rules Jimin! I don’t want to get in trouble!”

Honestly Jimin has told Jungkook so many times he can do whatever he wants but! Kook just wants to follow the rules and do his best! So Jimin sighs as he thinks of a plan.

“God of Love Jungkook, your next task is to get the mortal Y/n to fall in love!”

Jimin patted himself on the back with that one tbh

Lets just say reader

Jungkook is HYPED

He couldn't fly fast enough to your home where he saw you sitting at a table in your yard, reading a book.

The breeze blew through your hair gently, and your eyes softly fluttered as you focused on the page

Honestly Jungkook hadn’t really thought this out because

WHAT WAS HE GOING TO SAY

HE DIDN’T EVEN KNOW YOUR NAME

His feet gently touched the ground as he nervously shook out his hands

He was so close! Yet! So! Nervous!

He even made a bouquet of Lilies for you!!!!

It was now or never for Jungkook, and so he quickly marched to your table.

You were honestly so absorbed in your book you didn’t even notice anyone approaching until a cough interrupted your thought

You glanced up, the sun shining in your eyes as you saw a figure before you!

A person! A real person! Or at least you hoped and that it wasn’t someone sent to fight you!

“Hello!” You smiled your eyes finally focusing on who it was before you and 

Wow

Reader before you was the most beautiful person you had ever seen,

The stranger tightly held a bouquet of flowers in his hands as he just stared at you, a childlike grin on his face.

“Hi…” he breathed out, the two of you staring at each other for some time.

Jungkook shook himself out of his daze as he presented the flowers to you

“These are for you!” 

He pushed the flowers into you as you took them into your own hands, grinning at the gift

“Are you the one who leaves me lilies on my door?”

Jungkook rubbed his neck sheepishly because

Well

YOU WERE SO CUTE

He nodded as he played with his fingers

“My name is Jungkook.”

“My name is Y/n.”

Lets just say reader

Your life became like a fairy tale after meeting Jungkook

The day you met you both sat and talked the entire day

And from then on he just became a constant in your life!

He would show up with bouquet after bouquet 

“Because you deserve them!” He told you

He wanted you to teach him how to garden and how to feed the animals

In return, he taught you dances from far away lands and told you stories of his travels.

By dusk, Jungkook would wish you a goodnight and return to, well, 

Wherever it is he lives you guess

In reality he is hightailing it around the world to finish his other tasks but! You always come first!

One night you were a lil sad he had to leave and trust me

JUNGKOOK NOTICED YOU WERE SAD

HE COULD READ YOU FROM A MILE AWAY

He wasn’t sure what he could do to cheer you up so???

Before he left for the night he gripped your hands in his tightly

A blush on your face because well Jungkook never really tried anything physical with you

It was the first time you both ever had contact with each other

And you could feel small waves of electricity from his hands

“Y/n.”

You glanced up because wow! His voice! He sounded more serious than you had ever heard him before

When your eyes met his he gave you a big smile

“I really like you a lot y/n.”

You hear that reader???

That was the sound of your heart 

EXPLODING

You could feel your face slowly turning red as you nodded your head

“I like you too, Jungkook!”

It should be known, Jungkook’s heart also exploded!

He was!

So happy! 

Honestly he couldn’t help himself as he pulled you in close, his lips happily pressing against yours

Reader you were currently kissing Jungkook aka a God of Love

You were so happy, as your hands wrapped around his neck pulling him in closer,

You always saw Jungkook as a happy, childish person

But wow

The way his hand gripped your leg to wrap around his waist

And the way he held you against the wall

And the way he seemed to be able to whisper spine chilling things

And the way his hands held your down into the sheets-alskdlkdlajdiow

Well he just seemed like a completely different person

It was the first time he stayed the whole night

And you guys played a great game of chess :D

Jk you guys know what went down

You woke up to the sun filtering in through your windows

The soft beams illuminating Jungkook's tan skin

His hair a mess of fluff on top of his head

He looked too perfect

You smiled, kissing his shoulder softly as he smiled in his sleep, pulling you closer to him.

It was all exactly how you pictured in your mind, being in love with someone

Wait

Reader

Did you just say????

In love???

You were in love with Jungkook???

Your face flushed at the thought but in your heart

Yeah you were.

Y/n finally had fallen in love.

A sharp knock at your door caused you to sit up, clutching your blankets to your chest

Jungkook somehow was already out of the bed, glancing through the window at who it was

His face looked startled which made you worry more,

“Jungkook…” You whispered as he turned around giving you a smile

“It’s alright Y/n it’s just a friend of mine”

Jungkook went to your door and opened it as you tried to eavesdrop

“Jimin…” he said, his voice serious

Jungkook whispered in hushed tones back and forth with whoever it was outside your home and you took the chance to quickly slip on your dress.

Approaching the door as well you peered around Jungkook's large shoulders to see another man with orange hair

What was with these insanely attractive people showing up at your door????

The man noticed you and gave you a smile

“Hello Y/n.” 

You gave a polite nod but Jungkook protectively pushed you behind him

It wasn’t that he didn’t trust Jimin

Not at all

But Jimin actually showing up here meant something was wrong.

 “Y/n dear I just had a question for you.” The man spoke, his voice light like a fairies.

You gently patted Jungkook's lower back as you emerged from behind him, staring up at the being.

“Y/n do you love Jungkook?” 

Your heart beat rapidly as you wet your lips, glancing back at Jungkook who stared at you with wide eyes.

“Well…?” Jimin pressed

You nodded your head softly 

“I love him. I love Jungkook.”

Jimin gave a smile as he leaned in closer

“With all your heart?”

You shook your head

“With everything I have.”

Jimin gave a gleeful laugh as he clapped his hands

“Well Jungkook! You did it! You completed your task! Now the question is-”

Jimin's eyes seemed to pierce through Jungkook

“What will you do? You do so love rules.”

Jungkook couldn't really handle his emotions right now

On one hand, Jimin was right, you fell in love therefor his task was completed

On the other

HE JUST WANTED TO HOLD YOU

YOU LOVED HIM

YOU REALLY LOVED HIM

Jimin watched the conflict in Jungkook's eyes as he smiled

“Jungkook, you've deserved a love like this for so long. You need to stay with Y/n.”

Jungkook but his lips nodding his head

“I want to stay...with Y/n forever.” 

Jimin, The god of Love and Beauty smiled at his best friend

“Jungkook, The God of Love, I relinquish you from your work as my helper. From here on out you may live freely, with whomever you choose. But I do expect visits every now and then.”

And then

Jimin was gone

You turned around to stare at Jungkook, his godly presence still shining through his mortal body.

He stared right at you

His eyes watering with tears of joy as he ran to you, scooping you into his arms tightly

“Y/n… Y/n..I love you..” he sobbed into your hair 

You sniffled as well, your arms holding him close

“I love you too Jungkook”

The legend of Jungkook and Y/n say they lived the rest of their lives together in that cottage, proving love could defy anything. But sometimes people could swear even now, eons later you could see a young couple, smiling and holding hands through the streets of the town.

The wife clutching a bouquet of lilies to her chest

[deeznutzzzz24]

Little Red Riding Hood

Chapter Three: A New Friend

Summary: Living a life of caution for as long as she can remember, Y/N has never stayed too long in one place, always moving from town to town in hopes to hide her identity. With the Hunters Moon coming, she knows she must be extra careful, as the local culture resides heavily in the hunting of her kind. One night, when a cloaked figure unveils her secret and narrowly escapes, Y/N finds herself in a desperate situation: kill or be killed. With no face to go by, she must now search through the townsfolk before the stranger can spread the truth about her. But the task proves more than difficult when she realises her only lead is a long, crimson cloak.

Genre: horror, fantasy, little red riding hood retelling

Warnings:cursing, stalking, death, heavy smut (in later chapters)

Pairing: redridinghood!Jungwon x femwolf!reader

chapter one here

chapter two here

chapter four here

Doubt clouds my mind as I shake my head and take a step away from the door.

You’re being paranoid.

I force my hand to still and bring it to the large stretch of timber before me, knocking three times with firm affirmation.

No answer.

I press my ear to the door again, checking for any signs of noise or movement.

I hear none. Blood running cold, my hands anxiously tug at the handle, cursing in frustration as I realise it’s been locked from the inside. I feel the tiny hairs on the back of my neck stand up. Shit.

Shit. Shit. Shit.

Another scream. My mind paints a picture of a frightened old lady cowering against her kitchen sink as she shrinks from her attacker.

I start banging now, waiting for any small sign that’s she’s alright and that my mind is playing tricks on me, but it’s no use, Mary has the thickest door in all of Avion. She has my paranoia to thank for that. I hear some shuffling from inside, but still, no one opens the door. My hands twist anxiously through my hair, pulling at my fringe with such force I’m sure I feel some hair ripping out.

Backing away from the door, I give myself a moment before kicking it with all my strength and sending it toppling over to the floor.

Small muffles of noise come from the kitchen and I slow in my steps, reaching a hand underneath my dress and grabbing at the small dagger tucked in my leg strap. I hear Mary groan in pain, and while the sound pulls at my heart, I can’t help but feel thankful at the discovery that she’s still alive.

I cast a glance to the glass cabinet facing her kitchen, cursing at the blurred stains that obstruct my view.

If Helena were here, she’d tell me to walk away. To leave this cottage and Mary with it. “This is the way,” she’d remind me, “don’t let petty sentiment deter your duty to the pack.”

She has a point, though I hate to admit. My affection for Mary brings me little benefits. If I continue the way I’m going, it will only make it harder for whats to come. In the end, they must all die.

Mary is no exception.

Footsteps echo across the floor and I listen intently, ears catching the sound of the back door swinging open and shut. Her attacker has left. Whether this move is meant to be brief or not, I’m unsure, but I have to make haste of what little time I have regardless. Swinging around the corner without hesitation, I grip my knife tightly and prepare to confront a messy scene.

Mary sits hunched over the kitchen floor, breathing in small hushed breaths. Blood trickles down her left arm and rejoins in a pool of patterns on the floor. Fragments of glass litter the floor and I observe the cracked vase sitting on the kitchen counter.

Mary doesn’t notice my presence, too busy hunching over her leg to hear my footsteps approach.

“Mary….” I speak softly, afraid of startling her. The glass begins to crunch beneath my boots, the sound sending uneasy quivers up my spine. “Mary.” Growing impatient as I crouch down before her, I gently lift her head to look at me, and I can’t help but smile when her sweet face comes into view.

Mary turned eighty five last Spring. Her hearing comes in little flecks of focus now, which explains why she wouldn’t have heard me banging at the door.

“Y/N,” she smiles up at me, giving my cheek a small pinch before cocking her head sideways. “I didn’t know you were coming today?”

I have to stop myself from laughing. Mary asked me yesterday to bring some flowers on my visit. As I said, eighty five.

I give her hair a pat and go to help her up. “I decided to visit because I missed you too much.” I lie through my teeth, “though I wasn’t aware you’d get yourself into so much trouble before I came.” Before I can help her stand, she gently swats my hands away, pointing at the small chunk of glass hanging out of from underneath her foot. The shard seems wedged deep enough to have cut nerves. Jesus, that’s gotta hurt.

If I had of come sooner, her attacker would of been faced with me, not a weak, elderly lady whom, quite literally, wouldn’t hurt a fly. Before I can move any further, the sound of the back door swinging open echoes through the house.

My hands reach for my dagger and I instinctively move in front of Mary. Shit.

Hurried footsteps rush through the living room and I have to stop myself from gripping the dagger too tight. He’s coming back. While my human form is strong , I am still constricted to the same strength as any other mortal girl from Avion.

Before I can lunge forward, Mary reaches a small hand up to tug at my dress. Glancing down, I watch in confusion as she shakes her head with an amused smile. Before I can protest, a young man rounds the corner, brushing past me as he juggles an assortment of first aid items and crouches down before Mary.

“Damn little lady, you seriously need to clear out that shack. Couldn’t see a damn thing.” He huffs, hands frantically sorting between jars. He picks one up and starts applying the herbal paste to her wound.

Mary reaches out a hand, brushing it against the strangers face before roughly grabbing at his cheek. Watching on in utter confusion, I glance between the two, trying to figure out their relationship.

Is he a young friend like me?

Is he family?

From what I was aware, Mary didn’t have any family in Avion.

He lets out a pained groan and tosses her a frown. “I wonder who you got that impatience from.” She laughs, brushing his hair back into place and motioning to her arm.

His frown melts into a cheeky smile. “Oh I think we both know who I got it from.”

She returns his smile. “Hurry up with those bandages, boy. I’ll bleed out at this rate with all this yapping.”

To an onlooker, the exchange would make the two out to be a pair of angry old siblings.

If it weren’t for the obviously enormous age gap, I know I’d certainly think so too.

The two murmur quietly amongst themselves, both impervious to my presence as I stand awkwardly a few feet away.

The young man stands, carefully brushing the glass to the side with a broom. Mary pouts, gazing at her once gorgeous vase now littered in little pieces across the floor. He catches her sad gaze mid sweep, giving her hair a soft pat. “Don’t worry, I’ll go into town tomorrow and get you a new one.”

She shakes her head, eyes glossing over. “It’s ok, it’s not something that can be replaced anyway. It was one of a kind.” Though I can only see his back, I catch the way the boys shoulders tense from her words.

The awkwardness becomes so overwhelming to the point where I don’t know whether to join in or leave.

The stranger helps Mary to her feet, brushing the glass from her apron with gentle motions. “You and your glassware. I tell you if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you cared more about your vases than you do me.”

Mary props herself against a chair, cradling her foot as he rushes to fetch her some water. “And don’t you forget it!” She shouts as the back door swings open and shut once more. “Oh my….” She gasps, finally realising I’ve been standing there all along. Laughing awkwardly, I smile to try and ease the tension between us.

“You didn’t tell me you had a visitor.” I smile through gritted teeth, trying not to let my frustration seep through. If I had of known, maybe I wouldn’t of rushed in here like hell on wheels. Before she can answer, the young man enters once more, this time stopping mid step as he notices Mary’s warm gaze pointed in the opposite direction.

Pointed at me.

The next few seconds slow in their course, a cold bite of nerves eat at my neck as the stranger slowly turns to face me, his features finally coming into view. Within seconds his eyes have found mine, and I have to remind myself how to breathe.

Face an attractive blur, the young beau bares soft ebony eyes with raven strands of hair that fall across smooth fair skin. It’s only when Mary clears her throat at my long silence that I come to a most uncomfortable discovery.

He’s the most beautiful boy I’ve ever seen.

Mary, amused, smiles from her kitchen corner, no doubt expectant of my surprised reaction. “Gets it from his father.” She laughs, gesturing towards her guest.

I throw her a confused glance, “Gets what?” I feign ignorance, but I can tell she doesn’t buy it.

“His looks, you silly girl.”

But the two of us aren’t listening anymore, standing in silence as Mary’s voice echoes through the space between us. I wait for him to respond to her taunts, but he doesn’t seem to find them amusing, in fact, he doesn’t pay them any mind at all.

He remains frozen from across the counter, eyes wide with something I can’t quite place. It’s then that he backs away, putting as much distance between us as he can. A shard of glass sticks upright from the floor behind him, and I open my mouth to warn him, but it’s too late.

The shard cuts through his boot, wedging itself into skin. The sound is so disturbing that we can hear as it squelches through flesh.

Mary stops laughing.

We both look up at him, waiting for him to double over in pain, but the boy pays his foot no heed, his pretty eyes trained on me as though I’m the only thing in the world that could hurt him.

Does he…..?

The cold nerves come back. My left hand, still clutching its dagger, instinctively tightens its grasp around the hilt.

He…….recognises me.

But that’s just the thing, though.

I don’t recognise him.

There’s no way….

“Jungwon!” Mary’s voice manages to break his daze and, after what feels like a lifetime, he finally shifts his gaze away.

So he has a name.

Jungwon.

“Look at your foot! Oh my goodness!” Mary bustles over to the mix of herbal pastes, grabbing the biggest jar and forcing him onto a stool.

She kneels to take off his boot, only for him to stand abruptly and move away. “Jungwon…”

I let my lips melt into an all too familiar smile, turning to the elderly lady who’s now kneels at his side. “Mary, you silly goose…” Feigning a laugh, I shake my head at her, “I thought you were getting beaten to death. You should’ve told me if you had another guest, I could’ve come another time.” She tries to make her way over but I’m quick to intercept and force her onto a chair. “Don’t even try, you need rest.”

She opens her mouth to protest but gives up just as easily.

“You’re right my dear, I’m sorry. It must’ve slipped my mind that you were visiting today. And just to be clear, if we ever were in such a situation, I’d be the one doing the beating, not the other way around. This idiot couldn’t hurt a fly.”

I smile at her humour. “Sure thing.”

“Ah, how silly of me! It would seem I’ve forgotten to properly introduce you.” She gestures to her guest and then back to me, as if to beckon us closer. “This is my grandson, Jungwon.”

My eyes fly to him. Grandson.

“Jungwon, say hello. This is Y/N, a friend of mine from town.” But her words don’t seem to comfort him. If anything, they appear to make him more anxious.

He gives me an awkward bow, eventually meeting my gaze with a great deal of hesitation.

My eyes dart down to the kitchen corner on his left, to the knife that sits idle by its board. His hand itches a few inches from it.

He doesn’t trust me.

Smart boy.

I laugh, giving him my warmest smile as I step forward, addressing Mary. “I wasn’t aware you had family in Avion.” I offer him a hand as I wait for her response.

He doesn’t take it.

“Jungwon is visiting from Borth, where him and his mother live. He visits every Winter, which is why you haven’t met him before.”

Ah. Of course.

I wasn’t here last Winter.

Mary bustles around the kitchen with her small limp, sweeping glass from corner to corner. She takes notice of her grandson avoiding my hand. “Jungwon! Don’t be rude!” She turns to me with a smirk. “Don’t mind him my dear, he’s just a shy idiot. Gets that from his father too.”

After a great deal of hesitation, Jungwon reaches his hand across, flinching when our fingers touch. His hands are warm and soft, a stark contrast to mine. Our hands meet with haste and just as quickly, he pulls his away, retreating completely until he’s backed against the kitchen counter.

I give a small bow to Mary. “Well then, I best be heading off. It was a pleasure meeting you Jungwon.” He doesn’t respond, instead bowing as he stares at the floor. Mary smacks the back of his head. “Walk her back to town boy.” He whips his head to her, his gaze pleading. I smile.

“A kind gesture. But I’ll be quite alright by myself.”

“Nonsense!” She shrieks, pushing Jungwon out the door and throwing him a coat. “The woods aren’t safe for a young beauty like you! Don’t worry, Jungwon wants to take you anyway.” I glance to the boy by her side.

His expression tells me otherwise, but he remains silent.

She gives him a sly nudge, bringing his ear down for her whispers. “Maybe you’ll make a new friend.” The boy remains silent, only nodding anxiously as a response.

“Really,” I laugh, pressing my hands to hers, “I’ll be fine. Besides I’m sure you’ll get him working on the door soon enough.” We look down to the door laying across her floor, it’s hinges torn awkwardly from the wall. “Sorry about that by the way. I got a bit impatient.”

“Oh I’ll get him working alright. When he gets back.” She murmurs, pushing Jungwon through the doorway and bidding us farewell. Jungwon leads the way, staring at the ground with fake fascination as if to distract himself. I don’t even have to turn back to know Mary’s probably waving warmly from her porch. She never goes back inside until she’s sure I’m sent off safely. Smiling, I turn around to bid her one last goodbye, but by the time my eyes catch sight of her little cottage trailing behind in the distance, she’s long gone.

————-

JESEUS!!!!! I’m so sorry to all my readers who were waiting for this one lmao it took me months just to publish one damn chapter! GOOD NEWS THO I’ve already written about 70% of chapter 5 so I’d say that’ll published at the end of this week sometime. I’ll let y’all know🙏 ps to that one anon who keeps sending rude ass demands and questions about why I’m “taking forever” if you keep sending them I’m gonna scrap this entire story just to annoy u 😘

If you want to join taglist, let me know😚

Taglist:

@ramenoil @moonmoongi @chlorinecake @denleave1088 @cha0thicpisces @w3bqrl @yu-yin-04 @rizzhee

[sonofkhaz]

Musing: Pathologic 2

Pathologic 2 is what you get when Russian game developers down an entire bottle of Flintstone Vitamins with some Vodka while listening to Hardbass after being awake for 72 hours straight. It’s probably one of the best games I’ve played in terms of story-telling and themes. 

It’s a great game, despite some mechanical issues. A few years ago, I got the original game off of GOG and only got about halfway through before giving up out of frustration and a little bit of boredom. The sequel fixed a lot of the problems the first game had. For starters, there’s a lot less walking back and forth; rather than having to literally walk around the whole town to check up on your patients to see how they’re doing, it now tells you at the end of each day if they’re okay, in danger of infection, or infected. It’s easier to track your character’s thoughts, the map now has markers, and you can sprint instead of walking (sprinting is now a feature, yes). You can use a ferry system to fast-travel around town at the cost of a coin called a Fingernail, and you can hold down CTRL to highlight points of interest and characters you can speak to.

Despite being praised in Russia and having very positive reviews (91% at the time of writing this) on Steam, the game didn’t get much traction upon its release in the west, with “game journalists”, a term I still don’t fully understand, comparing its difficulty to Dark Souls (yeah, some people still use Dark Souls as the litmus test for game difficulty) and claiming that it has Skyrim-inspired RPG elements. It’s as if “game journalists” have never played anything outside of Bioware games, Skyrim, Dark Souls and Pokemon.

Yeah...despite the fact that comparing a game like Pathologic 2 to something like Dark Souls or Skyrim is completely obtuse and ignorant, I think I understand where the frustration comes from, which I’ll get to later.

The game takes place in Town-On-Gorkhon, an isolated town in the steppes built upon contradictions. From a glance, the town might just look like your average early 20th century Russian town, but it’s inhabited by two groups of people: the Townsfolk, who are just becoming industrialized, and the Kinfolk, a group of Steppe nomads who hold veneration for bulls because they believe that the town rests on the back of a giant auroch, Mother Boddha. In addition, the latter group has a species of humanoids called Worms who water the ground with blood to grow plants, women called Herb Brides who dance in the steppes to make the twyre bloom, and other practices. Despite the contrasts, the two are not at complete odds at each other; rather, both cultures have meshed together.

In the first game, there were 3 different playable characters, but for now you’re only able to play as Artemy Burakh, the Haruspex. His father was a Kin doctor and his mother was a Townsfolk. After six years of medical school, Artemy is called back home by an urgent letter from his father, only to find out that he’s been murdered. See, a haruspex was someone in history who could divine the future from entrails; since Artemy is technically a surgeon who just returned to a town where cutting arteries, attacking someone with a knife, and digging holes in the ground are all considered taboo, he’s the primary suspect, so everyone hates his guts. People will initially refuse to trade with you, shopkeepers won’t sell their goods, and some people will try to attack you in the street. In the wake of this, a mysterious plague referred to only as the Sand Pest hits the town.

Pathologic 2 is like an adventure game and a “horror survival” tied into one. The imagery of the game goes from uncanny valley to flat out dark, with red pustules and moss-like substances growing on the buildings and streets of infected districts, infected townsfolk shuffling towards you to try and infect you, and plague clouds that manifest and chase you down the street. If you’re unfortunate to get infected with the plague, you hear voices in your head telling you, gently, to lay down and die so your suffering can cease. While you’re trying to find a cure and trying to save NPCs from the plague, you yourself are trying to survive.

Your overall survival is dependent on more than just your health bar. Sergei tries to shank you for your track suit and Semechki seeds, yeah, your health will go down if he manages to hit you. But then you have to factor in your hunger, exhaustion, immunity, and stamina/thirst. You’re hungry, so you eat some toast, but now your thirst meter is going up; while it’s not immediately detrimental, it affects the duration you’re able to sprint and fight. Your exhaustion meter is full, so you lay down to sleep for a few hours, but now your hunger is going back up and you’ve just spent precious hours that could have potentially have been used doing something else. Uh oh, you just got hit with a plague cloud and your immunity is dropping - do you use the immunity boosters/tinctures you were saving for patients to bring it back up, or are you going to take the risk and wait for it to slowly climb back to where it was?

Any time you die, your screen blacks out and you speak to Mark Immortell the Theatre Director, who gives you a tut-tut-tutting on dying and sends you back to your last save file with a penalty. Your maximum health/exhaustion meters are reduced, you get hungrier and more tired as time progresses, so on and so forth. These all stack, and they’re all permanent across all save files, so there’s no going back to scum save to prevent the penalties. If you die enough, you get visited by a friend who will offer to remove your current and future penalties forever...for a cost that you may not learn of until it’s too late to change your mind.

This ties back to my previous statement about how people were criticizing this game. A lot of survival games in modern gaming tend to be generous towards the player in terms of, well, survival - you have a meter that’s running low, or a supply that’s dwindling, so you stop whatever you’re doing to rectify the situation. Should you fail there’s usually an “out” by returning to a previous save. You can’t do this in Pathologic; one reason being mentioned in the previous paragraph. Another is the fact that time is always working against you - really, the only moment where time tends to stop moving is if you’re in a dream sequence or if you physically pause the game. The clock is always ticking so you need to frequently assess the efficiency of what you’re doing and if it will pay off in the long run. The game has a lot of choices, and not in Peter Molyneux’s Fable or Black and White perspectives of “choice”. The decisions can vary greatly. Let’s say that one of your friends needs a water barrel because they want to get water for the poor and impoverished in their district. Well meaning, but what if it infects the neighbors? The hospital needs the tinctures you need to boost the immunity of nameless patients; everyone will like you more if you carry the task out, and you’ll get paid the next day, but what if tomorrow means that half a dozen cast characters get infected and you don’t have the time to make more tinctures? 

Critics of Pathologic 2 have bemoaned the fact that you can’t just walk around, immune to virtually anything and everything, and talk to the NPCs while freely exploring the town to learn more about the Sand Pest and the overall story. The desire to know more about the story is a fair point, but here’s where I see the problem: There’s a genre of story-driven adventure style games, usually referred to as “Walking Simulators”, that are typically praised and lauded by the “video games are art” crowd. Games like Dear Esther, Firewatch, What Remains of Edith Finch, and Gone Home are usually put in this category.

The difference between Pathologic 2 and those games is that the latter group takes a more “hands-off” approach in their storytelling. You don’t have a lot of interactivity or mechanics that directly tie into the games. The named NPCs you speak with in Pathologic 2 are fleshed out; it’s personal because Artemy Burakh has history with them, and the decisions that you make, or don’t make, will ultimately decide their survival. Many of them have multiple outcomes; you speak with them, see their angles, see what information they may be willing to give out or abstain from initially giving, so on and so forth. The game pushes you towards investing them emotionally. Not only are you trying to save them from the plague, but you’re trying to save yourself. You’re also trying not to starve, you’re also trying not to get infected. Rather than watching a sinking ship, you’re part of the crew trying to bail the water out and plug the hole. 

Not all the mechanics are perfect. Guns and their ammo, while being extremely rare/expensive to find, have a tendency to jam up way too much and hitboxes can be choosy. Hand-to-hand combat can feel clunky, and the inventory can be a colossal pain in the ass to manage since the game does not auto-sort individual stacks and uses Diablo-style inventory management. However, I have very rarely seen things like these critiqued by the “video games are art” crowd; rather, they complain about the meter management. The problems of the town seem real because you’re in it as well. Without having to manage your meters, making sacrifices and decisions, it takes away the conditions that make moments in the game memorable.

Remember: Failure is a very real, understandable and relatable aspect of human life and society. There are times in life where you fail repeatedly before you see the light at the end of the tunnel and triumph. One of the marketing pitches of this game was, “You can’t save everybody”. For example, I spent three consecutive days treating Andrey Stamatin after he was afflicted with the Sand Pest, and it ultimately came to naught because he died anyway. Some of the game's most memorable moments and interesting dialogue come when you are unsuccessful, because the game knows that you’re going to fail at some points even when you try your best.

Overall, would I recommend Pathologic 2? Absolutely. Would I recommend it to someone who cares about story-driven games? Totally. Would I recommend it to people who have low frustration walls? No.

[minhoslut]

♡ summary: Reader is traded to a band of pirates in return for the safety of her village because of her plant magic. They are not like she expected, much more like her than she could even imagine in fact. This is a journey through their relationships and the high seas they sail on.

♡ pairing: superm x fem!reader, superm x eachother

♡ chapter: 1 | 2 | ? |

♡ series warnings: blood mention, injury mention, swearing, anxiety, death mention, depression, weapons, mxm

♡ series genre: romance, smut, angst

♡ series rating: Mature

♡ word count: 2161

♡ posted on: AO3

♡ chapter one: set sail

Rough hands ripped you from your dreams as they pulled you to your feet. You tried to move away but got jerked back immediately. “Don’t struggle, whore!” One of the men spat at you, making you cringe away. “Where are we going?” You attempted to make sense of the situation as you were dragged down the street, people screaming and rushing past you. The smell of smoke invaded your nose, making you cough and your eyes water. You were only given silence in return to your questions, your anxiety bubbling in your chest as you got closer to the shoreline.

A huge black ship was docked at the harbour, men were loading various materials onto it, and the townsfolk were quivering in fear. Pirates. Fear gripped your heart as you neared the dock and you clawed at the hands that were locked tight around your arms, desperate to escape. They brought you in front of a dark-haired man with a long sword. “We’ve brought her, now please leave our island!” The man to your right cried, David, if you recalled correctly, the oldest son of the village head. The one on your left was the second oldest, Liam. “Take the ugly witch and be gone!” he said, feigning courage but you could hear the shake in his voice.

“Witch hmm? Prove it!” The unknown man demanded. “Show him, wench.” Liam said letting go of your arm and gesturing to the pirate. You shook your head, tears falling from your eyes. The air in your lungs was swiftly knocked out by David kicking you hard in the stomach. Coughing, you clutched your waist in pain and slowly put out your hand. You grew a small blue flower, a bellflower, in the palm of your hand and threw it at the feet of the pirate. Said man laughed lightly, “Alright, we’ll take the trade.” With that, he grabbed your arm, leading you towards the ship. He let out a sharp whistle that echoed through your village, calling for his crewmates you assumed, as they all followed after.

Leading you deep down into the ship, he took you around several corners until you reached a door. After opening it, he tossed you in like a rag into the laundry. Your knees hit the floor hard and you yelped in pain, making him laugh at you. “Sit tight and don’t try anything.” He said before shutting the door and locking it. The room was mostly dark, a small window way up high letting light from the lanterns that lined the hall in. You stared at the locked door for a while after he left in disbelief, you were locked in the bottom of a pirate ship. A dry laugh escaped your cracked lips. What luck you did you have to have to be cursed with this wretched magic, your parents abandoning you because of it. Then you get treated like dirt by the whole village, barely managing to scrape by enough to survive, and now to top it all off? Fucking pirates.

The world is full of cruel beings and cruel happenings. But you were still here, for whatever reason, unable to give up. It was funny really. You looked around the room, it must be some kind of storage closet, from what you could make out there were buckets and rags strewn all around. It smelled musty, old and wet from years at sea. You could hear the crew walking above and around the room you were in, it was an odd experience. Briefly, you considered attempting an escape, but you quickly disregarded that when you remembered the swords and other weapons you had seen the pirates with.

So now all you could do was sit and wait, for the first pirate or some other one to come and kill you or torture you or do some other horrible thing to you. The door opened and a man with striking dark blue hair stood in the doorway. “So, you’re the Holder hmm? How interesting…” He went down to where you sat and lifted the piece of your hair that was turquoise, an everyday reminder of your curse. You pulled away from his hand and he smirked. “Let’s go, Captain wants to meet ya~” He offered his hand and you took it, not wanting to be manhandled anymore.

He led you up the stairs and down some halls again, then up more stairs. A big door decorated with images of the sea seemed to be the destination. The blue-haired man knocked, calling out, “Captain I’ve brought her!” The door opened to reveal the black-haired pirate from earlier as well as a new one with sandy blond hair. The two of you entered the room and the man shut the door behind you. There was a desk covered in papers, a chair, and a bed. “So Holder, let me see these powers of yours.” The blond ordered. Like you had on the dock you reached out a hand and grew a small flower, orange this time, a marigold. “How intriguing…” He hummed, coming over to take the plant.

“Oh, excuse me, I have no manners, my name is Jongin and I am the captain of The Devils Storm.” The blond one introduced himself before nodding to the original black-haired pirate. “Mark, boatswain, in charge of keeping this beauty in tip-top shape.” He said patting the wooden wall of the room. “Baekhyun, quartermaster, I keep the crew in line.” The blue-haired man told you. You looked around at them and shook your head. Were they seriously doing introductions right now? They had just kidnapped you for gods sake! “What is your name?” Jongin asked, looking at you expectantly but you stayed silent. You felt cold metal against the skin of your neck. “Answer the Captain, woman!” Mark held his sword against your throat, pulling away when Jongin waved his hand. “Y/N.” You said monotonously, staring into Jongins eyes.

“Alright Y/N, we will find use for you at some point, for now, you can join the crew in the galley to prepare food. Baekhyun, take her down to Lucas.” Jongin said leaving the room, followed by Mark. Baekhyun reached for your hand again, taking you back through the halls towards the kitchen. “Lucas is in charge of weaponry but he’s also a great cook, so he’ll take care of you in here.” You scoffed. ‘Take care’ of you on the ship you were being held hostage on? Yeah, ok. “Lucas~ Captain says it’s your turn to watch the prisoner! Her name is Y/N, put her to work.”

This new pirate, Lucas, had brown hair and wide eyes and was much taller than anyone else you’d seen so far. “Alright, start peeling.” He tossed you a sack of various root vegetables and placed a knife in your hand. His voice dropped, “Don’t even think about trying anything.” He then resumed his own chopping and you turned to find Baekhyun had disappeared as well. Looking down at the knife you sighed and began to peel a potato. This whole ship was ridiculous, you had yet to meet one normal person. Were all pirates like this?

When you had finished the bag, Lucas instructed you to chop them, then add them to the huge pot sitting over the stove. You followed his instructions, careful to give the man space as he added spices and meat to the broth. Cutting up a few loaves of bread was your next task, you did so slowly, your mind drifting to your island home. The forest that you would retreat to when you weren’t working, you would miss that most, especially the tiny garden you had grown of various little flowers in all sorts of colours.

“Why aren’t you cutting?” You turned to the voice and found yourself inches from Lucas’s face. Startled you let out a gasp, stepping backward and falling on your ass. You huffed and stood up, brushing your dress off, “I’ll get back to cutting.” You turned back to your job and almost swore you heard the pirate giggle. Stupid fucking pirates. You scowled at the bread in front of you, cutting pieces fast and making quick work of it. Looking over at the man, you studied his features. He had a long straight nose, sun-kissed skin, and honey brown doe eyes. Not really the image of a ruthless pirate, but you never trusted the outer appearance of a person.

Lucas turned and you averted your eyes quickly, he reached over you and rang a big rusty metal bell, making you cover your ears. “Time to eat.” He handed you a bowl of the soup and a slice of bread and gently pushed you into the mess hall, onto the end of a bench. Grabbing his own bowl he sat across from you and began to eat as men flooded into the room, each getting a serving of their own. No one else came to your table until a pirate with dark purple hair sat down beside Lucas.

“Hey, thanks for the food man, this the girl?” He asked Lucas, gesturing to you. “Taeyong! Yeah, that’s her, Captain made me babysit.” Lucas said all but pouting as he did. “Ten, Taemin! Over here!” Taeyong shouted, catching the attention of two pirates, one with dark red hair and one with silvery-white hair. “Where else would we sit idiot!” The silver-haired one said, sitting beside Taeyong. The red-haired one sat beside you, crooning “Hello, Capture~” as he did. You ignored them all, simply staring at your food. Baekhyun and Mark also joined the table, Mark on your side and Baehyun on Lucas’.

The Captain joined last, sitting at the head of the table beside you. The seven men exchanged greetings and dug into their meals, casually talking as they ate. You watched your reflection in the soup’s surface, dipping your spoon to make it ripple. “Why are you not eating?” The man beside you asked, “Well, she did get taken by us Ten…” The silver-haired man across from you said. He must be Taemin if the red boy is Ten. Ignoring the question, you put your spoon down and stood up. “I don’t want to be here, I don’t want any of this fake assimilation. Just put me back into some room and leave me to die.” You tried to keep your voice from wavering, averting your eyes to stare at your hands.

Jongin cleared his throat. “Taemin, she will be in the bunk above yours. Take her there now and keep her there.” Taemin nodded and stood up, coming over and taking your arm to lead you away from the table. The two of you ended up in the room beside the Captains quarters. “Everyone who was at the table, minus the captain, stay in this room, and you do now too I guess!” Great. Now you shared a room with six pirates, why weren’t they putting you in a cell or something? The Captain was strange indeed. The room was empty except for 3 bunk beds and a single, clothes were thrown on random beds, some on the floor.

“This one is my bunk!” He gestures to the bunk bed in the middle. “You will be up here, you can just go to sleep if you want. The one on the right is Taeyong and Baekhyuns, on the left is Lucas and Tens. Mark sleeps on the single bed.” You attempted to find a way onto the bunk, but it was too high for you to jump, and there was no ladder. Taemin must have noticed your struggle as he offered his hands as a step up. You eyed him for a moment, but ultimately took the help and stepped up onto the bed.

It was quiet for a moment, and you felt the bed shift when Taemin laid on his own bunk. “Why are you being kind to me?” You asked quietly, your curiosity getting the better of you, plus you felt compelled to trust Taemin for some reason. “Hm? Well… That’s kind of hard to explain since I don’t know what Captain wants you to know. At the very least, although you were taken against your will, we won’t treat you like a prisoner. You are simply an addition to the crew for now.” His voice drifted up from below you. “That’s stupid. Don’t you have enough crew? Why would you need me?” He chuckled at your response. “That isn’t to be answered right now, sorry~” Taemin sing songed.

You huffed at the stonewalling, wondering if being crew was any better than your life back home. This didn’t seem like your average group of pirates, but you were staying vigilant and alert. You didn’t want to be caught unprepared, for now, you might as well just do as your told and stay quiet. Closing your eyes, you imagined walking through your garden and soon it faded into a dream.

[angelofrainfrogs]

An Encounter Most Unexpected

Fandom: Good Omens

Pairing: Aziraphale/Crowley

Description: In the year 500 B.C., Aziraphale is sent on a mission to find a monster that’s been terrorizing the local townsfolk. Her quest leads her to a cave where the beast is said to dwell, but the cavern’s resident turns out to be a very familiar demon.

Rating: K+

Genre: Humor

Read on Ao3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/24597484

An Encounter Most Unexpected

"Crowley, what in God’s name are you doing?”

The angel’s sudden voice made Crowley pause mid-step, one foot hanging in the air as the other precariously balanced all her weight.

“Oh,” the demon breathed, a combination of surprise, confusion, and hesitant relief[1]. Her lips quirked up in a smile. “Hi, Angel- whoa!”

Crowley’s greeting was cut off as a sword missed her stomach by less than an inch. She jumped back just in time to avoid another blind swing of the weapon from the human she’d been dealing with before Aziraphale arrived.

“Watch where you swing that thing!” Crowley exclaimed, and the human swiveled wildly towards the voice, the blindfold across his eyes rendering him completely sightless in the dim light of the cave.

“Foul fiend!” he shouted with another sword swipe. Crowley mumbled a curse in an ancient tongue and gave the man’s back a light push, sending him careening deeper into the cave. Then, Crowley turned her attention to Aziraphale and gave her a wide grin.

“…What are you doing?” Aziraphale asked again, slower this time, crossing her arms in front of her chest. Her gaze flickered towards the human wandering aimlessly and shouting occasional threats at the nonexistent monster.

“Okay, it’s not what it looks like,” Crowley began, taking a few steps closer to the angel so they wouldn’t have to yell across an echoing cave. When she stopped a few feet away, a strand of red hair shot out towards Aziraphale’s face, making the angel flinch and instinctively grab it tightly before it touched her.

“Ow, ow!” Crowley cried, pitching forward. Startled, Aziraphale realized the fiery lock of hair in her grasp resembled a sentient snake, complete with a flickering tongue and amber eyes that matched Crowley’s. The angel released it quickly, taking a step back.

“For Satan’s sake, Angel, I thought only humans were trying to take my head off!” Crowley muttered, running a hand over the now dejected-looking snake. It was then that Aziraphale noticed that the entirety of Crowley’s normally curled mane was completely made up of these serpents.

“Oh, I should have known,” Aziraphale said with a roll of her eyes. Crowley quirked an eyebrow as the angel tutted at the ridiculousness of the situation. “The humans in town were saying that a Gorgon was living nearby, and they were trying to vanquish it. They were making such a commotion that word eventually traveled upstairs, and since I happened to be in the area, I’ve been sent to investigate it.”

“…Ah,” Crowley said, and at that moment the blindfolded man found the chattering pair and decided to go in for another attack. Crowley easily evaded another sword slash and spun him around a few times, pushing him again towards the interior of the cave. Task accomplished, she refocused on Aziraphale, who was absently tugging at one of the soft folds of fabric that made up her peplos[2].  

“Another question,” Aziraphale began, meeting Crowley’s gaze. “How did you manage to convince the entire population that you were a Grecian monster?”

“Funny story, that,” Crowley replied, grinning again. “I was just minding my own business- really, I was!” Aziraphale had given her a look that said she didn’t believe that claim, but gestured for Crowley to continue. “Anyway, I don’t have any assignments from down below, so I’ve just been wandering. A group of locals saw me on the outskirts of town one day, and apparently I looked enough like that Medusa girl they started screaming and ran off to tell their entire community. Like I said, I was bored, so… I figured I’d run with it for a while.”

Aziraphale sighed.

“My dear girl, can’t you think of a better hobby than terrorizing the townsfolk?” she asked, and Crowley shrugged in response. A few strands of snake-hair slithered towards Aziraphale curiously, but Crowley stopped their quest with a glare.

Aziraphale let out a giggle, then quickly covered her mouth with a hand– she was meant to be annoyed with Crowley, after all. The pair stared at each other for a moment, unsure of what to say next. They had known each other for years at this point, but were still trying to figure out where exactly the bounds of their growing relationship lied. Unbeknownst to each other, they both hoped it was leaning towards true friendship, though they knew it would be a difficult friendship to uphold. For now, it was best to keep on cordial terms.

“Uh… listen,” Crowley said, absentmindedly stroking the head of a wriggling strand of hair. “I only got into this mess since I was bored. Demons and boredom don’t do so well together, you know- we become rather wily.”

She raised a thin eyebrow, hoping Aziraphale got the message. The angel’s forehead creased momentarily, then a light of understanding dawned on her face and she gave a radiant smile.

“Well, as an angel on a mission to investigate the cause of strife among the humans, it’s certainly my job to thwart the wiles of a demon,” she responded primly. She tapped her chin, making great show of thinking about her next move. “Hmm… I suppose providing a distraction from terrorizing people would be a good way to go about this, don’t you think?”

“Oh, certainly,” Crowley nodded with a casual grin[3]. Aziraphale’s smile widened and she clapped her hands together.

“Well, that settles it then. Foul fiend!” She pointed an accusatory finger at the demon, then promptly flipped her hand over and held it out, palm up. “Would you care to accompany me for a spot of lunch?”

Crowley laughed and took the proffered hand without hesitation.

“You’re good, Angel; I didn’t stand a chance- Oi!” Crowley snapped at a wayward strand of hair that moved a little too close to Aziraphale’s face. It managed to give the angel’s cheek a feather-light lick before Crowley cajoled it back into place, and this time Aziraphale really did laugh.

“Crowley, they’re very sweet, but you might want to miracle your hair back to normal before we leave the cave,” the angel suggested.

“’M not sweet,” the demon mumbled, and with a snap of her fingers, the writhing snakes fell down into long, curled tresses of fiery hair. Without thinking, Aziraphale reached out to run a hand lightly over one of the curls. Crowley froze, astonished at the intimate gesture, and Aziraphale’s cheeks flamed pink. Both of them suddenly realized they were still holding hands.

“Evil beast!” came a familiarly annoying voice, startling the pair and giving them an excuse to let go. They turned to see the man running towards them, having managed to turn himself around and hone in one the chattering duo yet again.

“Oh, for Heaven’s sake,” Aziraphale said with a sigh, snapping her fingers, and the man froze. She walked up to him, removed his blindfold, and whispered in his ear, “You are going to forget all about this encounter and your mission to find the Gorgon; you will go home and wake up in your bed, having dreamed of whatever you like best.”

With another snap, the man dropped his sword and walked out of the cave, hazy eyes paying no attention to the two supernatural entities nearby.

“There; that takes care of my assignment, I think,” Aziraphale said matter-of-factly. She spared a quick glance at Crowley. “I… I do still have quite a bit of time before I’m expected to report back, so if you’re still amenable for lunch…”

“Of course, Angel,” Crowley replied. She wiggled her eyebrows up and down. “You still need to distract me so I don’t go back to my evil ways, don’t you?”

Aziraphale rolled her eyes, trying unsuccessfully to suppress another smile. “Quite right, my dear; quite right.”

                                                             ***

[1] Crowley hadn’t seen Aziraphale for quite a few decades and was starting to get anxious. She knew the angel could take care of herself- she hadn’t been chosen as the Guardian of the Eastern Gate on a whim-, but it still left a bad taste in her mouth when they went for long stretches of time with no communication.

[2] It was white, of course, and with the back-lighting of sunset streaming in from the mouth of the cave, Aziraphale positively glowed. It took a monumental effort for Crowley not to flinch at the angel’s sheer brightness.

[3] Though she was really trying to stop another, much softer smile from crossing her features. Crowley didn’t understand what it was about the angel that caused this strange twinge in her heart. She figured this was just her body’s response to being around her “mortal enemy,” and filed it away in her mind to definitely not dwell on later.