#lovely ​bumblebeekitten

[adrift-in-thyme]

*trips in* YOU HAVE A BLOG! I CANT WAIT FOR YOUR FIRST W/ THE CHAIN AU

Omg HI!! Welcome to the chaos that is my blog lol

And THANK YOU. I’m very excited about it too! I’ve actually been talking about it on here lately. As of now I’ve published a few snippets and some summaries of First’s relationships with the Chain. If you’re interested you can find them under the tag #first meets the chain au

[skyloftian-nutcase]

Prompt: Either Time and Malon have announced they're having a baby or Malon has just had a baby and they're introducing them to the chain when Time finds some big insecurities from one of his boys he doesn't expect; Wild. Thing is, Time (and to an extent Malon as well) is the only parental figure he knows. Any memories of his parents are long gone along with any record of who they might have been so Time acting in a familial manner means a lot to Wild. But he's worried now that the man is an -actual- father that it means he'll be withdrawing that affection from the chain (himself, really) in favor of focusing on his child. Time goes above and beyond to prove him wrong.

Sky glared grumpily at the postman as he delivered mail to everyone. Legend snickered and elbowed his friend, making the usually cheery knight even more sour.

“Chin up, Sky,” Wild chuckled. “Nobody can outrun that guy from what I can figure. At least that’s what the old man says.”

Time didn’t even flinch at his mention. It wasn’t new - he tended to tune out the younger ones what they got rambunctious. But something about the intensity of which he was looking at his letter from Malon caught Wild’s attention.

“Everything okay?” Twilight asked, also picking up on it.

Time glanced at Twilight, eye fixed on the younger man, then back at the letter. Then he closed both eyes and smiled.

“It’s fine,” he said quietly, folding the letter.

“That looks like more than fine,” Warriors noted, wiggling his eyebrows. “What are you hiding, old man?”

“Is Miss Malon okay?” Wind asked, poking his head over Warriors’ shoulder, having been sitting on the ground behind the captain, who had plopped on a stump.

“She’s fine,” Time replied warmly. Then he sighed a little, gentle cheer dashed by a cool, worried gaze.

“That wasn’t very convincing,” Four whispered to Twilight.

Time glanced around at the group, now that everyone had honed in on him. Then he seemed to come to a decision, huffing a little and saying, “Since none of you seem to know how to mind your business, then I’ll tell you.”

Warriors scoffed, “I’ll have you know I am perfectly capable of minding my own business until gossip is involved.”

Hyrule laughed. “It’s pretty funny listening to people’s drama in town, honestly. But I hope there isn’t drama in your house, old man.”

“There isn’t,” Time assured him. “But there will be someone new living there.”

“Is it that Ingo guy you got mad about?” Sky asked, tilting his head to the side.

Time outright laughed. “No, Sky. No. It’s… Malon’s pregnant.”

The group went silent for a long while before it burst into excited chatter. Warriors was the first to congratulate Time, with Sky coming shortly after, followed by Four and then everyone else in quick succession. Wind excitedly asked about baby names, Sky interrogated him about what course this journey might take now, if they should find a way to return to Lon Lon Ranch—

That was probably the point that Wild felt his stomach twist into knots.

He didn’t quite know what was wrong, at first. He congratulated the old man alongside everyone else. This was a great occasion, after all. But Sky mentioning how maybe Time would want to visit Malon really made Wild realize…

Was he going to leave the group now?

Wild… didn’t want him to leave.

It wasn’t that he was particularly close to Time, more so than the others. Wild was closest to Twilight, after all. But… something about the eldest Link was… comforting. Guiding. Wild couldn’t put words to it, except that… it reminded him of… he didn’t know. He just… he couldn’t remember anything. He didn’t know anything. But the Hero of Time became a staple in his life the last few weeks, a father figure of sorts (and he knew he wasn’t alone in this—the worried disappointment that Wind was trying to hide, the way Legend suddenly became aloof as if already distancing his heart from the matter, the way Sky took four steps away from their leader after running up to him to congratulate him—these were all indications of the same sentiment) when Wild could hardly remember any family at all… and he… was going to lose him too.

He supposed the only true constant in his life was Zelda.

It wasn’t as if he didn’t know this journey would come to an end, but he hadn’t expected their group to lessen during the journey. It had been horrifying when Twilight had almost died - now Time was going to just leave them? Leave him?

Wild found he couldn’t speak after his initial words of cheer for the old man, and he started to slink away into the woods. He wandered aimlessly, shivering a little, feeling far more alone than he had in a while. He tried to cheer himself up with some kind of logical argument—even if he does leave, you still have the others, you have your brothers, you have Twilight—but none of it quite filled the hole that was quickly forming.

At least this time he’d have a chance to say goodbye.

Wild eventually made his way back to the camp just in time - Warriors had been readying to search for him, and he didn’t want to cause such a fuss. He avoided Time for the rest of the night, settling in to take first watch as everyone else went to bed.

He hadn’t expected Time to sit beside him.

“Something’s bothering you,” Time said. It wasn’t a question, but it was held in the air like an invitation.

Wild sighed. “I… wouldn’t worry about it. We’ll find a way to get you home, old man. Wouldn’t want you to miss your actual family.”

There was a period of silence, only interrupted by the crackling of the fire. Wild felt a strange ache in his chest, a longing for someone he could no longer remember. He shriveled into himself a little, shoulders slumping, letting time pass by as he looked into the flames.

“Link… I’m not going home.”

Wild didn’t register the words for a moment, still lost in his own mind and thoughts, before he blinked and glanced over at the older hero. “Wait, what?”

“My place is here,” Time explained quietly, almost what seemed gently. “I would never abandon all of you like that. I love Malon dearly, but she isn’t my only family.”

Wild wasn’t sure what to say to any of this, but the hope in his heart couldn’t be ignored, and he burst out, “You’re not leaving us?”

There was something about Time’s expression that Wild couldn’t quite read. The older hero’s eyebrows seemed to relax from their previously stern position, face softening, eye looking Wild over. “No, young one. I’m not leaving. What we will do, though, is turn back towards the town. I want to write to her. I want all of us to write to her. We’ll have to keep tabs on how she’s doing far more often.”

“Why all of us?” Wild asked.

Time reached forward, messing with the teenager’s hair as he smiled. “If I’ve had to parent all of you, then you’re certainly earning the right and responsibility to ensure your new little sister is alright.”

Wild yelped a little at the gesture before laughing a little, swatting Time away. “Sister, eh? You think it’s a girl?”

“Goddess, I hope so. I have enough boys to take care of.”

Wild’s laugh nearly woke the entire group at that remark. When he’d settled, Time smiled at him, laying a hand on his shoulder. The gesture was reassuring, a physical representation on the promise that Time hadn’t spoken. He didn’t need to. What he’d said was enough.

The ache in Wild’s chest didn’t squeeze quite so hard. But he yearned for the contact, and so he leaned forward a little, just a little, just enough to be perceived without invading the man’s space. Time understood the motion for what it was, and he smiled a little more, pulling Wild into a hug. For the briefest moment the champion felt a little silly or embarrassed at the vulnerability he’d just shown, and then he decided he didn’t care - if he truly viewed Time as a father figure then he should be comfortable showing such insecurity around him. He’d done as much with Twilight.

Twilight. Time’s descendant. Between being viewed as a brother by Twi and a son by Time, Wild actually… he really…

He let out a shuddering breath, and Time’s hand swept up and down his back slowly.

For the first time in as long as he could remember, Wild actually felt like he belonged in a group, in a team, in a family. He could imagine the Champions smiling at him, and the tears finally did fall.

[trombonedesya]

Another Legend cosplay post, now with improved props, and a friend!

And, um... I may have proposed because that's who I am. And she said yes!

My lovely, beautiful backpack korok is @bumblebeekitten

[arecaceae175]

Heroes Helping Heroes

Me and @bumblebeekitten were discussing this crazy amazing animatic by lordlorenz on youtube and we had a lot of thoughts and I must share! (@bumblebeekitten came up with the original concept and most of these ideas!!!!!! I've added minor details)

Imagine if the ghosts of the past incarnations of the hero's spirit are always drawn to the birth of the next incarnation. The spirits huddled over whatever cradle or bassinet newborn Link, Wild. They whisper hopes to the little one; that his childhood is long and happy, that he is loved by his parents, that the sword never calls for him. They know it's unlikely, else he wouldn't have been born otherwise, but they can hope.

Once his journey begins, they offer any aid they can to help Wild through his journey:

Hyrule using the chime of a fairy to guide an injured Wild to one of the fairy fountains, and letting a little extra healing magic flow through the fairies and into the food Wild makes. Hyrule giving Wild a gentle mental nudge away from a plant that'd be poisonous to eat and towards safe shelter.

Warriors a subtle ticking metronome that helps Wild time parries to guardian blasts or a subtle nudge to his foot that strengthens his stance to be able to handle the charge of a lynel. Helping cement sword forms and battle techniques into Wild's memory so he can be as prepared as possible to make it through his battles. Warriors also wrapping his scarf around Wild on cold or teary nights, giving Wild a sense of comfort and protection.

Wind being a bracing hand against a raging thunderstorm or guiding the winds beneath his parasail to get Wild further than he might have on his own. Encouraging Wild to play and explore and learn with childlike glee.

Legend guiding Wild's eye to the weak points of the monsters he faces and giving Wild and innate sense of which clothing pieces are best for the situation. Legend also gives him that subtle beat of kindness in his heart that makes him strive to try and help everyone he meets, be it the Koko who just wants to make dinner for her sister to the Gerudo needing molduga parts to save her husband.

Time standing vigil whenever wild goes into a memory, nudging and guiding wild in subtle ways to shelter when they inevitably overwhelm him. He has a constant watch over the different phases of the moon and helps bolster the feeling of anxiety that pushes Wild to be at a stable or village whenever a blood moon is due to rise. Time being horrified when Wild draws the sword at 12, trying to give him strength and hope and amplifying his moments of childlike joy.

Twilight. Ever present and faithful Twilight, the only physical companion of the chain. His fur soaks up the tears from pain and anguish alike, his ears and eyes stay alert whenever the exhaustion is too great for Wild to bear when sitting by a fire for the night. The extra fang and fury needed when courage falters. A companion, a friend, a playmate, a reminder Wild isn't alone and there is life and joy outside his duties.

Sky being the exhilaration Wild feels leaping from the tallest points he can or the feeling of wonder at the lush life of his world, his Hyrule. Sky filling Wild with hope at his lowest moments, helping him find his strength to carry on. Sky trying to reconnect Wild's spirit to Fi, and being completely heartbroken and confused when Wild can't pull the sword on his first try

Four making hidden weapons or shields gleam just a bit brighter in the light so that wild notices them or placing that extra arrow or rupies in the various crates, barrels, and pots he breaks. And Four putting as much of his energy and magic as he can in Wild's weapons to keep them going just a little bit longer in the heat of battle.

[depressedhatakekakashi]

@bumblebeekitten ohhh fun question

Houki was born when Kakashi spent a week in the forest without leaving, causing the ground to flood over and the plants to look like they’re growing out of the water itself. There was no romantic passione between Kakashi and Yamato, but a strong bond of friendship that mixed into a being that had life breathed into it, resulting in Houki.

bee and Yamato’s daughter (i need to look up names for her) was born from passione. From Yamato trying to get a break from Kakashi after a week of trying to comfort him, and Bee trying to help his lover relax and unwind. Their daughter bloomed from that love and the world echoed with the sound of chirping birds to greet her

[hazbincalifornia]

Soo question did you ever come up with lore for your moxxmilitzø babies or is what you had on your Tumblr all that. Haha sorry if it's weird I really love the ship, next to stolitz ofc

Some of this is repeating that in case people didn't look but they were made in a roleplay with @bumblebeekitten! Under cut for length.

Long story short, they were created in an au off Truth Seekers where the 'bitch juice' was used instead of the 'truth bomb', which were aphrodisiacs that created a heat situation and Moxxie ended up getting pregnant with twins. It took much longer for Loona and Millie to find them this time, and both they dealt with experimentation, although it got focused more on Moxxie when they realized he was pregnant. Eventually they got out, but Moxxie got kicked in the stomach in the process of the escape and Stolas had to save both his life and that of the kids.

When they were born, Ash (the boy) had a large scar on his head due to the kick and needed to go to the NICU, and Moxxie barely made it through labor with the other, the girl Beauregard/Beau. Ash ended up having to deal with pretty bad headaches for most of his life after that, although they do have a tonic that can help.

Because of the infusion of magic when they were in utero and having a succubus for a grandmother, both of them have magical abilities relating to music! Beau can infuse her voice with magic and can slightly influence people/their emotions, while Ash uses instruments. (Her magic is stronger, though.)

They meet Stellaluna when she accidentally opens a portal across dimensions, although time is incongruent so she's already an adult when they're little, and they consider each other siblings. Alastor takes a bit of a shine to Beau in particular, and his powers actually help to enhance hers when they work together.

There's a pretty rough spot when the kids performed at a recital and Beau's horn was broken by a stuffy goetia woman who thinks that their magic is trying to 'trick' people when they're just fuzzy about controlling it- especially as Stella missed it due to a miscommunication and they thought she didn't care anymore.

When they're a bit older, through an incident with Agents One and Two after they died, Beau ends up pregnant through further experimentation, which is... rough, but she makes it through in the end, even though Ash was also pregnant at the same time, but his was via his boyfriend at the time. They actually ended up going into labor at the same time.

Ash is the more outspoken of the two, enjoying more physical combat and playing instruments, while Beau is more of a shooter who’s shy. Both of them are musicians, but he's in a band while she's more of a solo act. (Beau also ends up with Pippi, the Fizz/Ozzie kid.)

[e-p-pfister]

Oh this is gonna be a mess but @xblood-kittenx knew what she was doing when she tagged me.

I know your eyes in the morning sun (How Deep Is Your Love by the BeeGees)

Where you are, that's where I wanna be (Love of My Life by Santana feat. Dave Mathews and Carter Beauford)

Chim chimney Chim Chimney Chim chim cher-oo (Chim Chim Cher-ee from Mary Poppins)

No te vayas (Finale from In the Heights)

We set sail at half-past morn lookin' for a new tomorrow (Drink the Night Away by Gaelic Storm

Brand new laces, fresh pair of Jays, pocket full of blue faces(Good Times Roll by Jimmie Allen and Nelly)

Wise men say only fools rush in (Can't help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley)

You are my fire, the one desire (I Want It That Way by the Backstreet Boys)

How does a ragtag volunteer army in need of a shower (Guns and Ships from Hamilton)

She's got electric boots, a mohair suit, you know I read it in a magazine, oh (Bennie and the Jets 2018 Version by Elton John, P!nk and Logic)

@aurawolfgirl2000 @birinboom @likeinfinitea @bumblebeekitten

put your spotify on shuffle and write down the first lyric of the first ten songs that come on, post the poem that results - tagged by @kore538

today is my birthday and i'm riding high

two hearts fading like a flower

i put one foot in front of the other

i've been thinking, thinking it over

there is a house built out of stone

get me out

me, i've come apart and you made me

talk to me and watch me crumble

check out my melody

i'm searching for something that i can't reach

not sure that made much sense but alas 😂 tagging anyone who wants to do it, cba to tag anyone specifically

[asofterfan]

It’s been a bit so forgive me if I ask repeat questions! Aside from Roman who is super careful with his wings, have any of them ever broken a wing before? Has there ever been a scenario where Virgil had to protect Roman via shielding with his wings or the opposite where Roman steps in to protect/help Virgil? I think we know how Patton would react but what would ro and lo do if they saw Virgil with dirty/bloodied wings thanks to the dark sides?

They’ve all hurt their wings in various ways- Patton tends to get little nicks and burns on his wings because he a) has poor spacial awareness (”I have enough room!�� *several crashes later* “I did not have enough room.”) and b) tends to emote with his wings (which leads to knocking all sorts of things over. This is mostly fine except when it happens while he’s cooking, which is where he tends to get hurt the most). Virgil of course has his troubles with his wings, but I don’t think they’ve every been broken before. Logan broke a wing once when he forgot to eat and passed out on his way down the stairs.

After he’s accepted, Virgil will shield the others (including Roman) juts kind of instinctively. Like if a loud noise startled him he’ll just suddenly be in front of Roman with his wings blocking him. After that, Roman starts to reciprocate- If a dark side tries to start trouble Roman is front and center running them off. He also starts shielding Virgil with his wings when Virgil has panic attacks. He wants Virgil to know that he’s protected too.

If Roman sees Virgil with his messed up wings, he’s mostly just sort of be in shock. Before finding out about what Virgil used to go through, he never really thought of Virgil’s wings as fragile. So it’s kind of this moment of realization that even if Roman’s wings are physically the most fragile, it doesn’t mean Virgil can’t still be hurt, physically and beyond. He’d definitely cry at least a little, and would probably be the most inclined to grab one of the others to help, but he’d be glued to Virgil’s side for like, at least a week. 

Logan would initially shoot straight into first-aid mode, flitting about like a blur to clean and bandage anything and everything (He maybe overdoes it a little. By the end Virgil looks a little like a mummy even though he wasn’t injured that much, but it actually helps Virgil feel better to see Lo trying so hard to make everything better and make sure he’s okay). Then, once Virgil is bundled up in blankets and drinking tea, he’d pull a full sized white board out of fucking nowhere and start game planning how to make sure nothing like this happens again.

[teacupfulofstarshine]

appreciation station

buckle up my little galaxy, it’s time for STARSHINE GETS SAPPY ABOUT NEW YEAR’S AND RAMBLES LIKE A LOON

so, i just wanna start by saying how much i love this community? like, as a whole? this was the first online fandom i became so invested in! i did write fic before this, primarily for vld (this was back when we had, like, 2 seasons and there was still hope). but i was never a PART of that community - the discourse was just too much and the fandom was too big for me to truly get invested, y’know? 

this is the first real online community i’ve become a part of and BOY do i love it. you all made me feel SO LOVED and SO WELCOME and honestly sometimes you go through some shit in your life and you just need people to be sunshiney and oh my lord do you people have it in SPADES. every time i’ve needed a pick me up, you have all been so loving and wonderful and supportive and incredibly patient when fic takes forever (i’m working on that, i promise). so basically, thank you all. you’re all incredible.

there are, of course, a few people who deserve to be recognized by name and i’m sticking THAT nonsense below the cut, so if this is where you stop reading, please know that i love and appreciate every single one of you, and we are going to GET this BREAD in 2019 BITCHES. it’s the year of the bisexual, and i’m gonna make it my (bi)tch. <3 

OKAY SAPPY TIME HERE WE GO

@accio-hufflepuff-power1 NICKY!!! you were one of the very first people to ask to be tagged in my writing! (i think you were the first one, actually). i think you’re amazing, and i know i’m shitty at answering messages but i love you so much you’re such a gr8 friend 

@the-frosty-doctor WE BECAME MUTUALS BACK WHEN YOU WERE STILL GOING BY romaning-daydreams DO YOU REMEMBER? you were my very first sanders sides mutual and you were the very first person to hear about lovely dark and deep! that fic would never exist without you, and i’ll be grateful forever. 

@ironwoman359 HEY TAAAAAAYLOOOOOR so you reblogged every single pattonella piece with commentary and honestly that commentary is one of the things that inspired me to keep writing it. i would sit there and refresh the notes and wait for you to see it and rb it and now we’re BUDS and it’s GREAT you’re such a gr8 writer i rlly look up to you i’m still amazed that you follow lil’ ol’ me you’re great i love you <3 

@ethospathoslogan PETTY! BITCH! WIFE! i was so incredibly fucking nervous to talk to you bc i had read and fangirled over your fic for like, three weeks before i ever messaged you. (also i thought you were like 24, but that’s more down to my inability to read roman numerals than anything). but i was SO HAPPY that we started talking bc i think you’re AMAZING and you’re the loml babe i’m so happy to be your wife. i love your work and i love you and you were my first internet wife i stan you so hard. 

@breloomings DANIEL!!! i was so nervous to talk to you bc your art is SO GOOD and it makes me SO HAPPY and i really hope you’re doing okay! i know we haven’t talked in a few months bc we’re both so busy but i really, truly hope that you’re doing okay and i hope we get to talk a lot more soon! 

@backatthebein RILEY you were one of the very first people i befriended! you were a huge supporter of pattonella just like taylor was and you always encouraged me even when i didn’t have any confidence in myself. i have had plenty of anxiety crises with you in earshot, and you’ve always been there for me. i love you so much, riley, you’ve always been in my corner and i hope you know i’m always in yours. plus, you send me great posts all the time! they’re either analogical or bisexual memes or memes in general or positivity support and honestly you’re amazing i love you sm 

@notveryglittery DAAAAANIIIII do you remember when you sent me an ask like OMG YOU FOLLOWED ME I’M SO HONORED and i realized that i hadn’t and i was like “THAT IS A CRIMINAL MISTAKE!” so i followed you on the SPOT. (tbh i thought i was following you already, i think tumblr unfollowed you for me bc tumblr.) you’re the royality stan to my analogical stand and i absolutely adore that we hardcore ship along an axis bc it makes writing fic SO MUCH FUN! usually if i have analogical i also have royality and vice versa with your writing and it’s just. mmm. yes. iconic. i love you so much, you’re so creative and inventive and supportive and you’re beautiful. 

@shesavampirequeen AAAARIIIIIIEEEEELL! we first met bc you popped into my inbox to say “hey” once and you just kept coming back! i actively looked for you in my inbox bc seeing you always made my day, and i always looked forward to your comments! and then i learned you were ALSO an analogical stan and my heart was SOLD! you’re sweet and funny and so, so kind and i am SO happy that i reached out to get to know you better bc it was one of the best decisions of my life. you’re absolutely amazing in every way, ari, and i love you <3

@bumblebeekitten BEEEEEE BEE BEE BEE BEE BEE! i first met YOU because i asked for questions about ldad lore to take my mind off my computer being broken. you YEETed yourself into my askbox and you asked like twelve thousand questions and they were all about things i hadn’t even thought about before! and that was GREAT because while i was busy answering your questions, i completely forgot the panic attack i’d been having about my computer! and now we’re BFFS and we’re WIVES and we’re RP PARTNERS and i honestly love all of the above! you’re so creative and talented and beautiful and i love you so, so much. i’m so happy we’re friends now <3 

@fangirltothefullest T A S H I! we first met because you reblogged one of my sneak previews of lovely dark and deep and said “i would love to do fanart of this!” and then i YEETED MY PHONE ACROSS THE ROOM and screamed for five minutes. i STILL can’t believe that we’re friends, you’re so amazing and sweet and awesome! i love our rp, i love that i took one look at your fusions and was like ALL OF THESE ARE MINE NOW ALLOW ME TO WRITE ALL YOUR FUCKING LORE and you were like THAT SOUNDS N E A T I’M TOTALLY DOWN TO LET YOU DO THAT! and now i co-mod the blog and just. halk;fas;dlkfj alskdf .asf ad. i am so INCREDIBLY LUCKY to have met you and i’m so grateful that you let me do this and i’m so happy that we’re bffs bc i love you so much, honey. you’re amazing <3 

[adrift-in-thyme]

I know it's more of a captain thing but Wars also just throwing Wild RIGHT under the bus in front of his mentor and leaving him to scramble to try and change the subject is definitely a big brother mood

It SO IS

And it’s not the first time he’s done it either

[e-p-pfister]

The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke

This book stuck with me as a kid. The found family aspect, the brotherly bond, the absolutely delightful idea of magic and what you would use it for. I still love the idea of these kids living in an abandoned movie theater with that starry curtain. My aunt and uncle gave me this book for Christmas or a birthday one year. It still has their words on the inside cover.

The Black Jewels Trilogy by Anne Bishop

One of my first introductions to adult dark fantasy. It remains one of my favorites of all time. I love the cast and the range of morality. It is also such a blend of this high stakes fantasy drama and the softness of domesticity and romance and the variety of bonds everyone has. It also just Sits with you once you have read it. I have several friends who are gonna die mad about being introduced to this series because of how it changes your brain chemistry. My copy of this trilogy was given to me by my sister in law already well worn but now it is held together by tape and prayers, pages are falling out. I adore it so much.

Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss

I was introduced to this by a friend in community college. The crazy-eyes pinboarding I have done for Book 3 of this series ( that whenever it comes out I WILL be taking the day off to read it. No one talk to me that day). The storytelling is so intruiging and the worldbuilding so much fun to try and unravel. My copy of the first book is so wellworn, and the second one only slightly less so.

Gentleman Bastards series by Scott Lynch

Specifically the first book, the Lies of Locke Lamora. The three books that exist are so great. Such great flow of books and so interesting even on rereads that they have become some of my travel books. @catastrophicmeltdown literally mentioned to me about the PROLOGUE of book 1 as she was reading it and I said oh, I gotta meet this Locke Lamora kid. He sounds like my kind of ballsy moron. And he IS. A fantasy story with conmen in a world that hasnt heard of conmen yet. And those conmen are absolutely smartass, whipsmart competent found family? I was sold from the start. Absolutely heartwrenching and hysterical in turns.

A Taste of Gold and Iron by Alexandra Rowland

Dude I found out about this series through authors notes on AO3 and I was like hold on. It was right up my alley and it is delightful (all of their writing is delightful honestly but this was my first nonfandom intro to it). The characters are so engaging and you're rooting for them even when you're not sure ifnyou should or not. The flow is so easy to read and I am an absolute slut for that like guard/liegelord kind of relationship and this was one of the best I hsve ever read. So delightful and now all their books are an automatic preorder for me.

@xblood-kittenx @birinboom @bumblebeekitten @iahfy @likeinfinitea @lialox @obrienpolycule

What are your favorite books and why?

I’ve been seeing weird discourse going around about anti-intellectualism, and people are always always talking shit on booktok. I’m tired of it.

No judgments whatsoever—doesn’t matter what age group it was written for or how awful the author might be—I want to know your favorites, I want to know why you love them, and I want this to reach as many people as possible, so please don’t hesitate to tag others!

I’ll start! In no particular order:

A Series of Unfortunate Events - the series that got me into reading in the first place. Also the series that holds the first book that ever gave me a visceral reaction while reading it.

To Kill a Mockingbird - has one of my favorite literary figures of all time (Atticus Finch), some of my favorite quotes, and really just kind of changed how I viewed the world and the privileges I have in it.

Dune - changed the way I look at world building entirely. I’ve only read the first book and only because it was assigned summer reading, but I’m so glad I did. I’ve never looked at fiction the same way.

The Priory of the Orange Tree - I actually can’t pick just one or two reasons. It’s really a fantastic book all around. The world building, the history, the characters, the settings, plus how it all comes together in the end. I’ll never not recommend it to people.

Your turn!

@lady-lauren @kweenkatsuki-fics @entirelysein-e @aceofbooks @monst @theoxenfree

[skyloftian-nutcase]

Do you think you could make a master post of all the stuff you wrote this month for easy re readability? :D

Aww, yeah, of course! :D I’ll put a link to this post in my pinned post as well (I don’t want to change my pinned post, it’s so old I’ll never find it again lol)

Lovely Prompt Event Master List!

Day 1 - Breath of the Sky Ch 15, the Champions, Destiny Duo, and Lovebirds all finally go on a road trip!

Day 2 - Imprisoning War, Link and Hemisi meet

Day 3 - Blood of the Hero, Abel eats something he really shouldn’t have and Tilieth has to save him from the ensuing delirium

Day 4 - Hero of Shadow, TotK Link and Shadow get to know each other a bit better and have a fluffy moment

Day 5 - Forsaken AU, Mystery Link & Friend versus monsters! With bonus comfort for Mystery at the end

Day 6 - LU in Healthcare, A glimpse at Legend’s ill-fated cruise, featuring Marin

Day 7 - Linked Universe, after the events of Elastic Heart the Chain arrives in Sky’s land and he gets to reunite with Groose and Zelda

Day 8 - Linked Universe, Legend angst and hurt/comfort with Twilight and Warriors

Day 9 - Linked Universe, Sleepy time for sleepy Time with family fluff/comfort

Day 10 - LU in Healthcare, aftermath of Abel’s heart attack

Day 11 - Imprisoning War, Link and Zelda have a quiet moment and Link reassures Zelda

Day 12 - Imprisoning War/Golden Mercy, Ganondorf reflects on his family and meets Hyrule Warriors Link

Day 13 - Blood of the Hero Ch 15, Abel reaches his breaking point and Tilieth saves him

Day 14 - Secrets of the Shadows, Rusl is struggling after the events of the story and goes to a friend to sort it out

Day 15 - Breath of the Wild, a younger Link is captured by the Yiga shortly after finding the Master Sword, and his dad rescues him

Day 16 - Chronicles of the Domain, little baby Link is sick in Zora’s Domain and his dad takes care of him… then Abel gets sick and his baby boy takes care of him :)

Day 17 - Linked Universe, Four fell asleep in Minish size and wakes up tucked into Twilight’s sash because Twi is a protective and sweet big brother

Day 18 - Imprisoning War, Impa comforts Link after his attempted suicide

Day 19 - Skyward Sword, middle aged Zelink fluff and family time

Day 20 - Dad Squad, Captain Link is captured by the Yiga and Abel and Rusl rescue him

Day 21 - Age of Calamity, Link and Mipha recover after the Water and Fire mission, and love confessions blurt out in their delightfully awkward fashion

Day 22 - Breath of the Wild, Link gets some quiet comfort in the early days of preparation for the Calamity

Day 23 - Twilight Princess, Mayor Bo discovers Wolf Link with Colin but Rusl’s lying skills saves everyone from a panic

Day 24 - Linked Universe, Warriors and Twilight encounter a silent realm and all the strangeness and horror within

Day 25 - Breath of the Wild, Zelda and Link bonding/comfort/fluff

Day 26 - Skyward Sword, Link comes down with pneumonia far from home and Zelda rescues him

Day 27 - LU in Healthcare, some of the boys discuss a frequent flyer

Day 28 - Linked Universe, Time finds out Malon is pregnant and Wild is suddenly insecure about losing a father figure

Day 29 - LU in Healthcare, the nurses teach Twilight how to start an IV

Day 30 - Hero of Shadow, TotK Link sees Shadow for the first time, and Shadow finally gets in a small victory

Day 31 - Golden Mercy Ch 1, After Cia’s defeat, Zelda, Link, and all of Hyrule mourn the fallen from the War of Eras, unaware of Ganondorf’s return from his imprisonment

[thelostguardianau]

The Lost Guardian- Chapter Eight

“Heed the Silenced”

(Authors note: aha.. yknow I should probably stop making promises for this fic. Months later, w/ a chapter that doesn’t have Thomas in it, three different outlines down and i’m really just at the mercy of this fic at this point xD considering midway through writing this chapter I had to cut and rewrite an entire scene i’d spent a month on bc I’d decided that Dee had a chance at redemtion that added an actual direction and a tangable end goal to this story. So. Yeah. And!! A loud Thank You!! to @bumblebeekitten for helping me bounce ideas back & forth for this au and being my beta for this chapter!!)

Character Info & Art:

Patton | Logan | Roman | Virgil | Remy | Deceit | ??? | ???

Chapter Seven | Chapter Nine

Fandom: Thomas Sanders Sides

Pairings: Eventual Polyamsanders (LAMPR/CALMR-a.k.a LAMP/CALM + Remy ‘Sleep’ Sanders)

Warnings: THIS CHAPTER IS KINDA DIALOG HEAVY!(sorry) Currently depicted as morally grey Deceit(subject to change in future chapters), though the side of Deceit from his first appearance doesnt make an appearance in this chapter and it is explained why, mentions of past betrayal and dark descriptions of bodily concepts, curses, limitations, and changes only really explained as possible through the lore of this au. Deceit speaks in riddles because he has to, ominous warnings. Virgil still isn’t okay mentally. Mentions of indifference to death, lack of selfworth or self preservation. (Let me know if I need to add anything!)

[[MORE]]

Brown eyes flutter open at the chilly breeze of a fan, and the ravenette’s mind comes to realize that he’s been moved from resting on his stomach to laying on his back. Groggy from his much too short nap, it takes a few moments to realize there are no warm bodies near him or under him, no breathing or chatter of familiar voices to sooth him.

The room, he realizes, is empty.

The room itself is, in fact, not Remy’s bedroom at all.

Shooting straight up, Virgil’s first clear thought is that he’s back at home. At his apartment, this time in his hoodie yet still roughed up from his latest ‘adventure’. The scene is eerily familiar, and yet he knows this time that work is not where he needs to be. It’s already daylight and his mind now knows this familiar scene, he should feel alone. Yet, this time he can hear the sound of honking cars and people, his loud neighbor from upstairs stomping around.

It doesn’t make sense as he walks to his window and peers out to see vague cars and people, he can’t even seem to make out any individual faces. It’s grey and raining outside, but there is no pattering sound against the foggy window. ‘What’s happening?’ Virgil wonders.

“Life seemed so simple a week ago, even months ago, did it not..?” A familiar voice drifts from behind him. Ice cold fear shoots down the ravenette’s spine as he recognizes the voice.

“I can hardly believe you were able to leave it, your routine. It was your everything, back when you came to terms with what you had left. Am I wrong, Virgil?” Whirling around to face the voice, Virgil finds the terrifying ex-Guardian sitting on his couch looking quite at home, if a little sheepish.

“What do you care?” He spat back, stepping back against his window.

“I am only looking out for you, you know. I have been protecting you all your life. Of all people I think I would know what is best for you, don't you think? We are connected after all, you and I.” The man sighed, making a surrendering motion with his hands.

“Why would I trust you?! You tried to kill me yesterday!” Virgil growled. “Why--h-how are you even here!?”

“False, my dear Virgil. I tried to warn you. Sure,” The guardian rolled his hand as he spoke, “I am forced to have a round-about way of speaking my truths, it is just part of my consequences it seems. But how else was I going to get you to listen to me after the others fed you lies about me? I do sincerely apologize for my other half being rough, though. I cannot quite.. Control.. Him.” The guardian tilted his bowler hat down to guiltily hide his eyes, regret briefly twisting his expression.

Finally the Guardian stood, dusting himself off as if his immaculate attire had acquired dust from just existing in his apartment. “I needed my physical body to reach yours and make our soul connection strong again, so that my soul could reach yours. However.. The pain I caused you was far from my intention. I am deeply regretful that it came down to.. That awful encounter.

“To answer your question though, Virgil, I am here because I created ‘here’. A realm made to form this illusion of being home, sweet home, just on the corner of the little street you had come to live on for the past year. It is all my doing. Where you stand is simply an illusion only you and I can access, a manipulation of your dreams and memories. The only place where the real me can talk to you mostly unhindered.” The guardian gestured to his surroundings.

“It takes only one person to flip your life on it’s head, a matter of hours to make the decision of a lifetime, and a matter of days to have completely changed your life’s direction,” He turned to Virgil, and looked him straight in the eyes, feeling distant and lost.

“And only a matter of years to succumb to the depression of the lonely consequences..”

Virgil blinked at that. The sad, longing tone had him thrown for a loop; it almost felt like the Guardian wasn't even quite talking to Virgil. “I-What..? I.. I don’t understand.”

The Guardian shook his head, snapping out of it and refocusing himself. "Nevermind that. It is time I talked to you for real, if you will have me?" The Guardian held out a hand politely, though there was no real expectation for Virgil to take it.

After a pause, Virgil gave a slight nod, still suspicious of the other's intent. The Guardian returned the nod, and his hand fell to his side.

“I am limited to the time that you rest and for now I will not be able to explain myself thoroughly, so, I ask you to understand that I do not expect you to trust me when I am done. I honestly do not expect you to ever trust me. With the mistakes I have made, I firmly believe I would not deserve it.”

Virgil blinked in surprise, not having expected his captor to admit to his faults straight off the bat.

“Okay.. Well, we’re here, might as well hear your side of the story. So.. Shoot.” Virgil said lightly, distrust and suspicion still evident in his tone and stance.

“I would assume at this point you are well aware of how the story you have been told paints me as the villain, a mastermind seeking power, immortality, and revenge? At least, that is what I am led to believe is still the story, it has been many years since I have heard the tale first hand… And... Well. Would that not be so lovely?” Virgil made a face, eyes narrowing in confusion.

“I am serious. Life would be so much easier if it was all black and white, true or false, good and bad, would it not? If those who meant well knew everything and those malicious few could not corrupt anything?” The Guardian frowned a bit, frustrated with his words that couldn’t seem to cooperate with him.

“Would it not be lovely if I could talk to you without fighting to keep from turning every honest thought into a question or theoretical statement just to let it be said? That my words could hold a meaning not forcibly disguised in the forms of fables and riddles?” The Guardian looked down lamely, his words tapering off in agitation. For a moment, Virgil waited as the Guardian was silent, contemplative. Then, the next moment the Guardian’s face scrunched up in sadness and his words were soft as he placed a hand over his golden wrist markings.

“My story is complicated, and twisted with shades of grey. One could say what I did was an attempt to keep you safe, another could say that what I did was outlandish and impulsive, and stupid. But no one will be able to tell you that what I did went according to the plan I had... at first. No one will tell you that my intention was to save you, to keep your fate safe. No one will tell you that my plan was ruined. Because there is no longer anyone who remembers what happened that night except for me,”

The Guardian’s eyes flicked up to meet the ravenette’s, a hurt look passing over his face as he continued. His steady voice now just barely trembled with uncertainty as he continued.

“No one but me and the soul who wants so desperately for everyone to forget. The soul who ripped my own in two to bury the secret, and ruin you and I both.”

“My final warning is this: Beware of the man who carries the world on his shoulders unflinchingly, he will be watching you closely. You have immunity to his power thanks to our connection, you might use this knowledge well to find the truth that lies in plain sight. However, your fate lies in the decisions you chose to make with this knowledge, I can only warn you of what might come.” The Guardian nodded solemnly, choosing to finish his cryptic warning there.

Virgil stood there, reeling with the information. Sure, he definitely wasn’t completely convinced he could trust this cryptic stranger, Guardian? Foe? Friend? Virgil wasn’t really sure what to call him anymore. But damn, his life was already so fucking crazy, this was all just fucking crazy! He could just be dreaming for all he knew.

But… Deep inside, he was hoping he wasn’t.

This was, well. This wasn’t what he’d been expecting to hear when facing the man whose, er, body? Had originally tried to strangle him? Now he’d heard his sob story and, well, Virgil wasn’t that easy to fool, but he’d also been told that it wasn’t expected that he’d trust the guy even in the end and he didn’t really want to.

He’d been on the path to death for so long, and then just two days ago everything had changed. So much was happening, it was frankly exhausting. What the fuck was he, some book protagonist? Couldn’t he get a little time to think about all this before he went crazy?

Still, something under all his incredulity begged to hear the guardian out. He vaguely wondered how Stockholm Syndrome worked before he gave in a little. What difference did a little more crazy make in his life at this point?

“Fine, I’ll heed your warning, or whatever the fuck. But only if you can tell me what you mean when you said that this guy ripped your, uh, soul? In two.” Virgil huffed, partially relaxing. It was odd how comforting he found it to be, floating in this weird feeling imaginary world, where he could interact with objects that weren’t real. It felt like he was really standing in his home, and yet it was just built from memory.

The guardian’s solemn expression formed into a grim smile, eyes distant once more before nodding. “I will do the best that my words will allow.” Virgil nodded, and waited for the now very familiar stranger to gather his words and take a breath. Then he began, his markings lightly flashing gold.

“You find yourself whole one day, as you have always been. To be whole of body, whole of mind, both human and guardian in nature. To have conscious thought and control over your whole physical being and soul..

“You find that yourself and others of the winged variety are capable of separating your soul from your being, though only the most Elite can do it well. You find out the family you made would soon be in danger. You then find yourself lost and alone when you once had a home to call your own.

“You find yourself knowing a truth, a perilous truth. Your home is in shambles now that you are gone, yet they do not know it. This truth is at fault, but the blame is not fully your own in a world built on lies.

“The source of truth tucks itself into blankets of grey, drawing itself further from discovery with each passing day. Now only you know the truth. The source of the truth finds you, it seeks to hide you too.

“You find yourself split one day, as you have never been before. Forced apart from the body, trapped within the mind. Guardian in nature, to have conscious thought and your dying soul trapped within, a false mind piloting the puppeteered confines of a broken body with a blind goal.”

“You find you cannot control what you used to, you are a prisoner to a body that is no longer your own, mostly unconscious to the world around it. Crazed by the false emotions that fuel it.”

“The you that used to be is no longer, and has not been for over a hundred years. The world that knew you knows not of what you’ve become. Knows not of the shackles that bind you.

“The you that used to be is no longer, and will never be again.” The Guardian finished, hesitant yellow eyes meeting Virgil’s carefully. Phantom goosebumps trail down Virgil's arms as the final sentence strikes a cord in him.

Virgil found he really wasn’t quite sure how to respond to that, the rawness in the other’s tone spoke volumes of the sore spot they’d reached.

“Your body rests, but your mind also needs time to process today. I shall see you when you next rest, though only if you wish to seek me. Rest well knowing that you will not be scooped from your safety once more, as I hope I’m never to do so again. And...” The guardian paused, considering their next words very carefully.

“I know it is selfish to ask... but, I hope and wish that Thomas is alright, after all this time... Do take care of him, would you?”

Virgil paused and stared, finding only concern and longing in the guardian’s expression. And, well, fuck. What a way to pull at a guy’s heartstrings.

“Er, yes. Yeah. I’ll try my best.” Virgil gave his signature mock salute, the Guardian tipping his hat in return.

“Trying is all I could ever ask of you, Virgil. Rest well, you will need it.” And with that final sentence, the world around Virgil gently grew dark, and he sunk into the comforting arms of sleep.

Despite it all, Virgil still found his mind vaguely conscious. Sluggish at best, but awake nonetheless.

He figured it was likely some lingering effect from the Guardian’s dream realm, but didn’t dwell on it. His life had way too much else going on to be debating the side effects gained from Guardian powers.

First, he’d been pretty damn convinced two days ago that he was going to be a goner by the end of the month. Completely resigned to die believing that his very existence was scorned by the world he’d been unwillingly born into.

Then Patton had stumbled onto his shitty apartment’s roof, found him in all of his resigned and depressed glory, and changed his life forever.

They’d mostly skipped the whole ‘Human nature is a series of life, death, and rebirth’ spiel that guardians were known to give in these situations because... Well, It wasn’t like they’d really had time to address it before the truth about his soul had come out. That he wasn’t exactly human to begin with.

Virgil didn’t think that Guardians had ever had a situation like his before. There wasn’t a protocol for comforting a kidnapped guardian soul. It’d never been a possibility before!

So it wasn’t surprising then, that Virgil didn’t have any better of a time processing it.

His whole life, all that he’d known to be true, all that he’d believed in? Everything had been uprooted and turned on its head. He’d apparently been living a life that was not supposed to be.

Perhaps for the first time in two days, Virgil realized that the thought of his death at the end of the month had not been consistently worming into his brain. It had once been something he could never seem to stop thinking about.

The death indicated by his soul timer was now perhaps the farthest thing from his mind.

Perhaps the strangest thing so far was that he wasn’t alone anymore. He’d possibly had more physical contact with other people in the short two(three?) days since this adventure started then he’d had in the past 16 years.

And wasn’t it just the cherry on top that he’d also gotten nearly choked out by the very guardian accused of kidnapping his soul in the first place? And now he was considering trusting the damn guy.

Virgil hollowly wondered why he even cared.

Why did he care about staying alive now when he’s spent his whole life believing he never would? Up until two days ago, that belief had still been true. But now? Avoiding death was the goal, Logan had stated as much.

Really, would Virgil lose anything by trusting the banished guardian? Even if the guardian was trying to trick Virgil and got him killed, what difference would it make? That’d always been the goal before. What did he, Virgil, really have to lose?

If it happened that Virgil lived past his twentieth birthday, if he became a guardian like he was supposed to be in the first place. Would he want that? Did he want that?

He wasn’t sure. Didn’t know if he ever had been.

His life had been built on resignation to the inevitable. Nothing seemed to motivate him towards liking or hating that possibility. He was just that.

Indifferent.

And wasn’t that just the greatest revelation of the night? Finding out that you’re indifferent to living or dying.

Once this was all over, if Virgil lived that long, he would make a note to see a therapist. He knew very well that this kind of mindset was unhealthy to keep. It just couldn’t be helped that the nineteen years he’d lived with this particular affliction couldn’t be fixed by a few extra hugs and comforting words.

Even if he didn’t like the fact that death sounded like the more peaceful option.

His thoughts paused, mentally sighing at the downward spiral he’d caught himself in. It was tiring, and going nowhere.

‘For now,’ he decided, ‘I’m just going to see how this plays out. The Guardian said that none of the others remember the truth, or whatever. So, It’s a ‘he said-they said’ situation right now...’

‘I’ll have to keep an eye out for the guy that he warned me about, then. Who knows if he's as dangerous as The Guardian made him out to be. It’s hard to tell with the weird way he has to talk..’

Virgil paused again, a realization striking him. If he could have groaned, he would have. Not once had he been given or even remembered to ask for the name of said Guardian. What was he supposed to call the rogue Guardian now? He couldn’t just keep calling him The Guardian!

Amidst the disbelief of such a slip up, a foreign yet familiar feeling prodded questioningly at his conscious mind. Adding confusion into the mix of emotions, he returned the feeling with a questioning thought of his own.

He briefly heard the Guardian’s whispy voice once more, now acting with permission.

“You may call me Janus”

Then all at once, Virgil woke up.

.

.

.

Chapter Nine

[ask-fantasy-sanders-sides]

(Blocking the dragon witch if that even works anymore) Roman... Virgil's resisting sleep! It's literally to the point where he can DIE if he doesn't sleep (I'm not exaggerating)! Isn't it your knightly duty to make sure no one dies on your watch?

Ask 43 ( @bumblebeekitten @renee-niles )

Previous

Next 

Game Start

–

Rules

Available for questions: Roman, Logan, Patton, and Virgil!

–

Virgil is getting some rest!

Roman is falling really hard

You fools, have you forgotten Patton’s warning so quickly??? “Virgil is very cuddly and talks in his sleep!”

Song is ‘Love’, from Robin Hood!

(Tag list below!)

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@wewuzraw

@lasilhouetteinbianco

@ashensanity

@zoeoctober

@just-a-gay-dying-cat

@rachel-eve-puppet

@lostchoirchild

@dndnerd1609

@art-for-the-world45

@storm337

@pansexualmomfriend-spoopyseason

@lol988876

@wolfie-kat-combo

@itsalexiastuff

@ratbastardstan

@sanderssides-chaos

@ghostintimelostintime

@lightenian

@the-smol-est

@casey-does-stuff

@ollyollyoxinfree

@im-too-gay-for-toxic-negativity

@multifandomnightmare

@marvelfangeek09

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@lauralimesanderssides

@travelingthemultiverse

@suffering-is-my-comfort-zone

@average–human

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@andreaissy

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@justfor2am

@thesoftestlittlepuffballwegot

@softboisnek

@moon-stars-and-bumblebee-kisses

@grouptalekindnesssoul

@greenninjagal-blog

@dragonangel-funandfire

@leoismybookcrush

@vara-albion

@paranovigilant

@hufflepuff-sweet-boy

@amazonprimebox

@cappy-is-still-here

@yalltookmyurlideas

@eternal-optimists-world

@the-aroace-queen-in-the-quiver

@shadowroseheart

@bishopriecke

@echocw

@tisi-thehomosexual

@killerfangirl3

@thedarkesttalent

@ming-how-are-you-so-cute

@multi-fandom-trash-x9000

@princessbelix

@are-you-even–real

@welcometo-myshitshow

@lizardlizz

@stars-and-rose

@mytumtum9

@samleerandom

@nonyabidness103

@spectralheartt

@an-ironic-pisces

@gloomingwitch

@dead-rose-throns

@yourlocalfrenchie

@music-magic-mayhem​

(If your tag is in bold, there’s some privacy setting keeping me from tagging you!)

[ethospathoslogan]

there will come a poet: chapter seven (a vampire sanders sides fanfiction)

A/N: story of my life, this chapter was supposed to be longer!! but, not only was i getting antsy to post a chapter, but what you’re about to read became a lot more narratively important than originally planned and, because what’s coming next is fairly dramatic, i wanted each moment to stand alone!!!

ALSO this is something i should've been doing from the prologue, but i have to give a huuuuuuge thank you to my friend bee ( @bumblebeekitten )!! she has been beta-reading this fic for me from the start, and has been the one hearing out my ideas, helping me piece together the plot, and giving me ideas as well!!! this fic would literally not be what it is now without her and, for that, i must give her all my thanks and love <3

summary: Virgil finally looked back down at him. “Why do you like the rain?”

ships: moxiety stans come get ur slowburn juice (also eventual logince)

WC: 1,976

content: light death mention

read on ao3

masterlist

spotify playlists

taglist: @iwillsithereandtrytocontribute , @glitchybina , @ab-artist , @daring-elm , @crazydemigod666

----------------------------------------

On Patton’s fifth morning in the Anguine Kingdom, it was raining.

It took a moment for him to realize it as he drowsily looked out the window in his room but, as he watched the rain drops drip from the canopy above and could just catch the sight of grey clouds through the gaps in the leaves, his heart surged.

He loved the rain.

Grabbing his cloak, he quietly made his way out of the guest corridor and through where the brothers rested. As he was walking down the stairs, he only faltered momentarily when he found Virgil already sitting on one of the cushioned benches in the parlor, his dark eyes trained on the rainy skies as well.

And then, Patton smiled and continued down the stairs.

“Morning, Virgil,” he said, his voice soft as he came up beside him.

Virgil, looking up at him, gave him a small smile. “Oh, hey Patton.”

Patton sat on the other end of the bench. “I didn’t expect to see you down here,” he said. “Thought you’d be sleeping.”

Virgil chuckled. “I could say the same to you.”

“I’m just an early riser!”

“And I barely sleep.”

“I can see that!” When Virgil gave a shrug, Patton giggled. “But are you enjoying the weather, too?”

“Oh-” Virgil looked back out the window “-Uh, just thinking, really.”

“About what?”

A hesitation. “Nothing important.”

As Virgil kept his eyes on the rain droplets tapping against the window, Patton took it as a sign to not push the subject.

So, instead, Patton looked out the window as well.

“I love the rain.” He put a finger to the window and followed a raindrop as it travelled downwards.

Virgil moved his gaze to Patton. “You do?”

“Always have.” He smiled. “Back home, I always liked to go outside when it rained. Well, more like sneak out because, you know, princely duties, but Logan always covered for me!”

Virgil laughed slightly. “Didn’t take him for the renegade type.”

“He has a little rebellion in him!” Patton laughed, too. “Just don’t tell him I told you.”

“Secret’s safe with me,” Virgil said with a smirk.

Patton beamed.

Virgil then cleared his throat, looking back out the window. “Do you want to? Go outside, I mean.”

“Oh! I- I was planning to, but if I can’t or-”

“You can if you want. You’re not trapped.” Virgil hesitated before adding, “I mean, if you’re uncomfortable or anything, I can go with you…”

Patton smiled. “I’m not uncomfortable,” he said, “But you can still join me. If you want.”

“Oh-” Virgil scratched the back of his neck “-Uh, yeah.”

“Great!” He then stood and offered his hand out to Virgil. “Shall we?”

Virgil eyed his hand. “You haven’t seen much of the capital city, right?”

Patton shook his head. “Other than the Wall? Not really.”

“Well-” Virgil took Patton’s hand and pulled himself up. The sudden flush to Patton’s cheeks distracted him enough from the coldness of Virgil’s hand. “-I can show you around. Won’t be as nice as it once was, but...”

“I don’t mind,” Patton said with a smile before remembering to take his hand away.

As Virgil opened the large castle doors, Patton relished in the cool morning breeze that blew in. The summer air was tempered by the gentle rain and Patton, equally calm, stepped out onto the stone steps.

“It’s beautiful out,” he said softly, looking out at the capital city down below before back at Virgil, who still lingered in the doorway. “Don’t you think?”

Virgil stared up at the canopy, still shrouding the kingdom in shadows but occasionally breaking through to grey clouds. “I guess.”

As Virgil stepped up beside him, Patton looked back out at the kingdom. “I think the trees are giving us some shelter,” he said. “You can hear how hard the rain’s hitting the leaves.” He breathed in deep. “It’s… calming.” 

Still, though, he gave an exaggerated frown as the raindrops blurred his glasses. Pushing them up on his head, holding back his curls from sticking to his forehead, he turned to Virgil and smiled. 

“You ready?”

Virgil’s eyes passed over his face before he sharply looked forward again. “Try not to trip,” he mumbled.

“I’ll do my best!” 

As Virgil led him down the spiralling steps (with Patton being extra careful to not slip on the stone), he said, “I don’t- I don’t have an actual tour or anything like that. If Roman was here, he’d probably have more to say. Might surprise you, but he was our, uh, socialite.”

Patton giggled. “Never would have guessed,” he joked. “But were you super busy? You know, back then?”

“Not really,” Virgil said, shrugging. “Just… didn’t go out a lot. Still know the kingdom, though.”

Patton nodded. “I don’t need a tour anyway,” he said. “I’m just happy out here!”

Virgil chuckled. “I can tell.”

When they reached the courtyard, Patton pointed down one of the side paths to the right that lead to the Vine Wall. “I’ve been there, and that’s about it!”

“Then let’s try to make things interesting,” Virgil said, and led Patton to the left.

The main thing Patton noted about the kingdom was that it was quiet. Always quiet, and always still. It was a small kingdom already—mainly consisting of a large capital city—and, after all this time, it seemed more like the brothers had come second to the foliage. Ivy clawed up the walls of the dilapidated buildings, and those closer to the Wall had been taken over by the vines as well. Most of the paths and stonework had become overcome by roots and weeds, and Patton had to watch his footing to make sure his feet didn’t snag.

“What was it like?” He asked after a couple minutes of walking. “Growing up in the middle of the forest.”

“Quiet. Isolated,” Virgil answered. “The Anguine Kingdom has been here for almost three centuries, but-” and he vaguely gestured to the city around them “-we don’t really have a lot to work with. I guess we could’ve tried to make villages farther out but, I don’t know, we did just fine with our capital city. For the most part.”

Patton worried his bottom lip, nodding. Before the climactic battle and the fall of the Anguine Kingdom, they had been a source of trade and commerce for the Hartt Kingdom. Even for a smaller kingdom, almost miniscule compared to the Hartt capital and all its attached villages, the Anguine Kingdom was once pivotal.

And then things changed, and the Hartt Kingdom adapted.

Patton kept his mouth shut about that, though.

“Did you like living out here?”

Virgil shrugged. “It was fine,” he said. “Again, didn’t really go out much.”

Patton nodded. He hesitated before saying, “Can I ask why?”

The Hartt legend said that the fourth son—that Virgil —hid away inside the castle because of the prophecy surrounding his birth, that the Queen’s death and the darkness that followed were only omens for worse things to come.

Patton found himself wanting to know Virgil’s side of it.

“It was just better for everyone if I… stayed away.” Virgil looked down, his steps slowing to a halt. “I’m not really… good company to have.”

Patton stopped in front of him. “I think you’re doing just fine.”

Virgil huffed out a dry laugh. “What about your legends? What do they think?”

Patton frowned. “That’s the past.”

“Is it?” Virgil arched an eyebrow. “You don’t know me like everyone else did.”

He took a step closer. “Well, what if I want to know who you are now?”

“There’s no difference,” Virgil said, crossing his arms.

“But… I think there is,” Patton pushed, his tone gentle. “I can’t… change things, what you think or- or what the past says but… I know what’s in front of me.” A pause. “I know you’re not as bad as you think.”

Virgil scoffed, sharply looking away. “Figured all that out so quickly, huh?”

Patton bristled. “I’m just telling you what I see!”

“Well I don’t see it!” Virgil, exasperated, dragged a hand through his hair. “Don’t think I don’t appreciate you trying but- but this has been my life for a hundred years! I…” He trailed off, shaking his head. His dark bangs clung to his forehead and, once again, he shoved them out of the way. “I’m sorry, it’s just…”

Patton bit his bottom lip. “Just what?”

A hesitation.

“I want to believe you,” Virgil finally said, quiet. “That there’s something-” He gestured to himself “-Here but… people get hurt when they’re around me, and that’s a pretty fucking hard thing to just forget about. If you stick around, and something happens...”

Patton frowned, tugging at the edges of his cloak. “But can we just make decisions on… what-if’s?”

“Patton,” Virgil warned, “You don’t know what you’re getting into.”

“What if I want to?”

The air in between them was suddenly still.

Whatever Patton was getting into, the way his heart hammered against his chest made it feel like he was falling.

Virgil’s voice was low as he asked, “You don’t give up easily, do you?”

“Sorry,” Patton whispered.

“Don’t be.”

Patton’s eyes widened as Virgil looked up at the sky, shutting his eyes as the rain dripped onto his forehead. 

For a moment, the silence between them felt like it would last an eternity.

“I hated the rain when I was a kid,” Virgil finally said. “My mother died the day I was born, and it stormed so badly for the next month that everything—farming, trade, commerce—plummeted.” He paused, his hands clenching. “A bad omen, you know? Cursed, even. And, after, it’s not like things were suddenly fine. I can’t just… ignore the signs.” 

“You said you used to hate the rain,” Patton said quietly. “What changed?”

Virgil shrugged. “I grew up, maybe. Got used to it.”

Patton’s heart cinched.

Virgil finally looked back down at him. “Why do you like the rain?”

“Virgil, if you’re uncomfortable or- or sad, we don’t have to talk about this...”

“No,” Virgil said, shaking his head. “I- I want to know.”

Patton studied him for a moment longer. “Well,” he began, and couldn’t help but smile, “Because our gardens always looked best after the rain. Because it was the best time to try and catch frogs out by the pond. Because we had this huge weeping willow tree that was just so peaceful to sit under. It always felt like the world just paused. The rain makes it easy to… breathe, and just be. I think the rain refreshes us… takes the weight off the world’s shoulders for a little while.”

Virgil stared at him for a long time.

And then, finally, his lips turned up into a small smile.

“Not what I expected,” he said.

Patton laughed sheepishly and rubbed the back of his neck. “I just really love the rain.”

“It’s… different.”

His smile fell. “Is that bad?”

Virgil quickly shook his head. “I- No, it isn’t. I… I like it. It’s new.”

“Well,” Patton said, his smile returning, “New can be fun. Good.”

Virgil nodded, glancing away before meeting Patton’s eyes again. “I guess I’ll try to take your word on it.”

When the pair were finally walking back to the castle, the rain starting to come down a little harder, Patton instinctively gasped as his foot snagged a root and, even with his glasses on top of his head, he could see that the forest floor was coming in fast, and-

And Virgil immediately caught him on the forearm, his grip cold yet secure.

“Thanks,” Patton said, blushing as he looked up at Virgil.

Virgil raised an eyebrow. “Told you to be careful.”

He grinned. “Well, it’s good that you were here, then!”

Virgil faintly smiled, too, as Patton righted himself, before both continuing on their way.

[delimeful]

Hiya! Don’t know if I’m doing this right at all and someone’s probably asked this already so sorry I’m advance. But if you feel so inclined can you just imagine Virgil explaining roller coasters bc my dumb brain is just like?! Anyways love your work and just wanted to say thanks for being so freaking awesome. Sorry for taking up your time ^~^

here we are again with the asks that inspired or prompted certain parts of Cultural Differences! thank you all so much for your asks! :D

@kaytikitty​ said:

Virgil and Logan discussing the planet Earth and Virgil explaining how things work

Anonymous said:

Why Virgil was in space, how was he captured, what happened when they took him out of the cell, and his perspectives of first meeting Patton - Winbar requests prompt Choose any of them I just thought I would give you a variety to choose from.

Anonymous said:

For WIBAR prompts, could you do Virgil and Logan bonding? It could be either due to a threat or just them talking about space and stuff

@bumblebeekitten​ said:

Does Virgil ever talk about his family to the others? Was he abducted from earth or maybe born on a space station/colony?

Anonymous said:

U should know that my mind starts singing Hozier very time I read CCFTD :D which btw I LOVE how u write loving idiot protective Roman, and if u still would like a prompt for WIBAR I would love some Virge n Logan interactions. Imagine Lo would have many questions for a deathworlder... ��� ur writing :)

@battleblaze​ said:

WIBAR Virgil starts to think of tall places as safe even once they get it sorted out. He sits on the fridge sometimes. Others: “Is this normal behavior for humans?” Virgil: “Look, it’s normal enough for me, and that’s all you’re getting” *Logan off to the side going “primate instincts-high places=safe???”

@enby-phoenix​ said:

It would be good to see the boys work through their trauma. Virgil learns that Logan is Not Like those other scientists, and Roman learns that Virgil is Not Like those other humans. Bonding happens. Roman and Virgil stop feeling like the other is going to try to kill them at any moment.

Also, we've had chapters from each of the other three bois perspectives, and I'd love to see one from Logan's.

Anonymous said:

For WIBAR, maybe some stuff with Logan helping Virgil out with figuring out what happened to him when he was captive and maybe some bonding????

@justanotherpurplebutterfly said:

WIBAR: does Logan teach Virgil more Common? Does Virgil also start to learn Roman's and Logan's languages?