#ludwig trying to jump up and failing

[cottagewhores]

so much happening here. i love all of it

[flashlight-sticker]

Day 3 - “Is this what you want?”

Today the streets were loud, boiling with life, rainfall heaving down onto the inhabitants, with unbearable traffic, some absolute morons yelling at each other through rolled down windows and an insane amount of responsibilities suddenly falling onto Francis’ shoulders.

It is on days like this that he regrets quitting smoking. But all of that (thankfully) was over.

Aside from the paperwork.

His opinions changed a lot throughout the centuries, but there were things that he felt very strongly about. For example, that your shoes should always match your bag, that dark brown was certainly not his colour and that paperwork was awful. Paperwork was something he dreaded with his entire being, for his hand hurt too much after signing, signing and signing everything, for he was having a migraine after hours of trying to figure out some misprint, only to find out later that the whole paper was actually never meant for him in the first place, for the moment he looked at the dull papers, black lines crossing them all over, he felt his heart sink and eyes roll at a yet another request from one of his officials.

He dragged himself up the staircase and took out a key. The wrong one, of course, because the universe despised him today.

The clicking of the lock, the smashing of the door against the wall, his bag falling onto the floor and him slumping against the corner of the hallway, on top of the shoe cabinet.

Francis knew he needed a moment after such a day, just sitting there in silence for a few minutes before he said anything to the love of his entire life, or he’d look too miserable for his own liking. Or, at least Francis thought that he needed it, before he heard the sweetest words flow out of the dimly lit living room, where Alistair was, no doubt, reading.

“Welcome home, Fran!”

A lazy smile appeared on his face.

“Hello.” He said back, softly.

***

“Ugh…” it was taking way too long for him to get through all of that. Perhaps, just perhaps, he should’ve done all of this when Ludwig told him to. And perhaps (perhaps!) he needed to look at this law that was passed on a little earlier. And perhaps—

Francis threw his head back, eyes closing and hands covering his face. This is exactly why he didn’t like this whole “sign the damn paper” thing. It wasn’t just about signing the damn paper. It was about figuring out whether or not they had the finances for it, if it was the right thing to do, if there were loopholes through which one can do something questionable. And, of course, it was about endless, notorious, boring calculations. It was about unnecessary drama and pity parties… and his thoughts were driving him insane again.

“This is hell” he picked up a pen and looked at it with disinterest, not really looking at it at all “I am in hell.”

“Then I’m here to save you.” Francis jumped up in his seat, head snapping to the right. Too invested in his own thought, he failed to notice the door opening, or a certain Scotsman leaning onto it, observing him. The same Scotsman that was now looking at him with a smug grin and a glint in his eyes.

Francis shot him a look. It was meant to be threatening, but either Alistair didn’t care after being objected to it so many times, or he completely misunderstood it for a ‘what do you want?’, because he answered :

“I made tea.” and nodded to the corridor, after which he walked out of the office.

***

Upon entering the kitchen, Francis was greeted by the sight of Alistair, who spared him a mere glance before continuing to pour tea into two cups.

And the stove on, for some horrid reason, but that’s a headache he’ll deal with later.

He sat down opposite to Alistair, looking at him with glassy eyes. No thoughts were really in his head. They generally had the tendency to disappear once he locked his eyes on Scotland and he still wasn’t sure whether that was a blessing, or a curse.

He watched Alistair’s hands place the teapot back onto the table, his fingers curving at the handle of his cup, holding it sternly, thumb tapping its top.

And looking at that, Francis reminded himself that he should probably take his mug. He reached out slowly, holding the porcelain in his palms, warming them against the liquid inside.

He took a sip.

Alistair followed his example, eyes closing for a moment, the way he always did when appreciating a good earl grey.

“How was your day ?” the question was gentle and Francis understood that Alistair was prompting him to a rant, the way he did when he knew that Francis was in the mood for gossiping (almost always).

He smoothed his hair behind his ear. “Horrible.” Another sip. “Today was absolutely horrible.”

Alistair answered with a low hum and Francis felt the need to continue.

“First the gas in my car was about to run out, so I pulled over to the gas station, but there was a huge line. So, when it’s my turn, I look at the hose and it says that it ‘reaches both ways’” he put the cup down and mimicked the speech-marks. “and then it didn’t! So, then I have to drive out and get to another line and that goes by pretty quickly. And when I went to the cashier, they go ‘Sir, am sorry, ye cannae pay with a card’” the imitation of the accent made Alistair choke on his tea with laughter, but Francis was too absorbed in his own story to notice. “And I don’t have any cash on me at the moment!

“I go into the car, search high and low for these damned thirty pounds and I find them. Ten minutes later!

“I finally get out of the gas station and I’m driving to the conference room and there’s a traffic jam. I stay in there for nearly half an hour!” He sips his tea again, more angrily this time.

“So, of course I arrive late and the first thing I hear this morning is a lecture from Germany about punctuality, after which your brother” Francis points an accusing finger at Alistair across the table, who puts his hands up in surrender, after which proceeds with even more poison in his voice “uses it against me, as a proof that I’m lazy and am no fit for a ‘gentleman’ like him!

“So, now I have a lot of work and a headache. Work that you are preventing me from doing!” he looks Alistair in the eyes and both of them know that it’s a joke. A playful remark. But Alistair pretends that he doesn’t. He leans forward and tries to hide his smirk as he speaks.

“Is this really what you wanna do? Paperwork?”

Francis lets out a groan at the mention and throws his head back again, hands wrapping around his cup.

He hears Alistair chuckle.

“I might have something that can make it up to you a little.”

The mention makes Francis curious and he tilts his head towards Scotland slightly. He watches him get up, hears the fridge open and is soon presented with a plastic box being set in front of him on the table.

It takes him a second to realise what he’s looking at, but it does light his day up a little when he understands what it is. Francis smiles.

“You got me a crème brûlée!”

Alistair shrugs his shoulders and nods to the side, a small smile on his own face.

“Thought you deserve a little treat.”

“Mmm, thanks” France hums out, eyes softening as he looks up at Scotland.

He gets up, circles his chair, fingers dancing on top of it lightly, after which he stands directly in front of Alistair. “There’s something that would make me feel even better though.”

There’s a played naivety in his voice and Alistair thinks that he has a pretty good idea what that ‘something’ is. But Francis gave him a role and he’ll have to carry it out.

“Oh?” he reaches out and plays with the ends of France’s blond hair. There’s a hint of a smile in his voice “And what is it?”

“Kiss me.”

And so he does.

[captain-n-crunchies]

I hate roblox..

Yuuji x Black! Gamer Reader ( GN READER)

When you have a s/o who games a lot your time is usually spent listening to them talk about a new game, how much games copy the same theme as stalkers or killer toys or talking about a new video a fav content creator made. Today Yuuji and S/O were just sitting in their dorm, it was 9:45 pm and they had a sleepover date today, Yuuji bought snacks and you made a fort and set up a movie theater style room for the two of you; now the two of you are watching the LEGO movie on Netflix when a notification pops up on your phone.

" Oh cool! Yuu! r/c just played Poppy Playtime chapter 4!"

" That's cool babe...what is that?"

" The toys that killed people Yuu, ya'know the we watched Berleezy play?"

Yuuji taps his chin thinking back and shakes his head, you pull out your phone to tap TikTok to play the viral sound

" This one Yuu, ' NO! NOOO! NOOOO'

" OHHH! THAT DUDE! I still don't remember"

You roll your eyes and pull up pictures of the game, you both watch tiktoks of people playing the game

" I could do that, it's only running and doing puzzles"

You get a wonderful idea at his statement and asks a simple question.

" It's a copy of it on Roblox, wanna pla-"

" No" Well damn

" Why not? Scared of bacon heads or sum?"

Yuuji just shakes his head and pouts groaning while telling a story of how he tried to play an obby with Nobara and Megumi and always fails at jumping somehow, with this knowledge you beg and beg him to play the game like a tiny gaming session. Yuuji pouts telling you ' what about the movie?' he didn't even pay attention too; you drag him to your PC and sets him up an account on Roblox while you grab with PS5 ( Gojo thingz) to play with him. With everything hooked up and yuuji begrudgingly making an account you look up ' Poppy's Playtime' on Roblox

" Ok Yuu join me"

" Ok! how do I-"

" Click on my avatar and hit join game"

After Yuuji joins he joins you in chapater 3

" Aren't we in 1?

" Because that one isn't scary this one is"

Yuuji side-eyes us and joins when he is transported next to you in the burning train, as you and yuuji wonder into "Play-Care" yuuji reads out the text with Ludwigs voice

" This dude reminds me of Yaga if he was evil"

" What if Yaga is evil and we all are helping him?" " Nah, Yaga too ' Evil is bad, Must be Good' to be some evil sorcerer"

" But what iffff" You say now walking into the statue, Yuuji just stand there though.

" What you looking crazy for?? Come on"

" Nuh uh I remember from the video when we go down there they get us"

" I thought you said you ain't remember?"

" I lied obviously"

After going back and forth about going to continue the game you leave him and head into the Care- Home, Yuuji trails behind you trying to copy a gamer's intro. Walking around the game for clues you see a Catnap walking freely behind on boards.

" YUU! Did you see that!?"

" Seen what?

" Catnap!"

" ... A creepy cat supposed to scare me?? I fought curses creepier"

" yea yea but. he's the real deal in actual game"

" Why we can't play that then?

" Because I'm not paying for the game when it free on Roblox?? Duhhh"

After venturing around finding some of lure you walk into a medical room with the tv on telling you how the toys were waiting for you, waiting to finally kill all the people that done them wrong, saying you won't like the games they have for you when a distorted image of Huggy Wuggy crawls out.

" Hey what he doing? Wait- WAIT WAIT!"

Yuuji tries to run from it while you laugh at him running, he turns around the Huggy just running towards him...MENCENINGLY

" Ok where do I go? Where you at y/n?"

Oh- I disconnected"

" Wha- WHta you mean disconnected? What I do!?"

" Just run"

" Run! I'm doing that, He's GAINING ON ME! HELP AHHHH!"

A jump scare makes you exit the game, and he stares at you mean mugging you while you laugh your ass off

" OMG! You keep sayin " AhHh!" You mocked his cream as he denies ever being scared mumbling he hates Roblox and it off brand Minecraft. After wiping your tears of joy, you make him login back on to play a game of his choice as payment for laughing at him

" I wanna do that Tower of Hell thingy"

" You played with Megs and Nobara right?"

" Yea I'm a pro at it"

Once joining he dashes onto each platform while you just take your time

" OH YEA! Best Roblox player to ever live! Never played what that girl you be saying on TikTok?"

" What girl?"

" The one that be like " ON my soUuUlllll"

You laugh at his impression while he yaps about he's soooo good until he got sliced in half by a laser ( RIP GOJO HE WAS MY MAN FOR 2 DAYS)

" ... HOW DID I DIE!? WTF!"

" I thought you were the greatest...the greatest never dies from lasers"

He rolls his eyes ans tries to get back up but always fails on the same map, after 5 mintues of straight raging he exits out and gets back into the fort pouting. You log out and rub his head cooing how it ok and he's your best roblox player, he acts all moopy saying robloz sucks and everything while you laugh him off.

" Would you play fortnight in roblox"

" No"

" Not even for me?" With a puppy dog eyes

"You look ulgy like tha- OW!"

" Ulgy taht! forehead..."

Roblox does sucks

A.N: ( AHHHHHH! yall honstly I'm so good at making random ideas for stories like call me Shakes sphere or whateva but tell me if you like and please wright some suggestions down in the comments for characters but I have ideas but no characters but yea! Love yall"

[multifandomfern]

Flower Debate

AO3

Sorry if I got anything wrong!

Sunflowers are the best flower! They’re bright and make me feel all warm!” Ivan said, happily.

"Sunflowers may be bright and beautiful, but no flower could beat le rose.” Francis disagreed. Ivan shook his head.

“I am afraid you are wrong. Sunflowers are the top flower.” Francis trembled at the dark tone of Ivan’s voice. He looked to Alfred.

"Back me up, Alfred!” Alfred shrugged.

“I don’t know dude, sunflowers are kind of cool.” Ivan grinned hearing that while Francis hmphed.

“See Alfred knows what’s right.” Ivan said, gleefully. Francis turned towards Arthur.

“How about you, Arthur?” Arthur blushed a bit.

"Roses are more sophisticated.” Francis jumped excitedly.

“Arthur agrees with me, and he never agrees with me! This is proof that roses are the best!” Arthur smirked.

"You’re saying I’m smart then?” Francis backtracked.

“Uh, well, you are, but not as smart as the tres bien moi of course!” Arthur crossed his arms.

“You know it’s the dumb people that always think they’re smart.” He huffed.

“Don’t act so smug then!” Soon enough the two were rolling around on the floor. Ludwig sighed,

“Will we ever get through a conversation without them beating each other up?” Feli patted his shoulder.

“Nope!” He said brightly. Way too brightly. Ivan smiled, remembering the Italian and German.

“What do you two think the best flower is?” He questioned. Feli brightened even more.

"Heliotropes!” He answered. Ivan’s smile fell.

“And you Ludwig?” Ludwig blushed,

“I don’t think much about flowers.” He responded. Feli shook his head.

“But Ludwig, I thought your favorite flowers were cornflowers!” Ludwig looked away. He admitted, shyly,

"They are.” Ivan sighed,

“But sunflowers are the best. Who would want flowers from corn?” Feli shook his head again.

“They’re not actually made from corn!"

"Well then who'd want flowers named after corn?" Ivan questioned. Feli opened his mouth to defend Ludwig's favorite flower more, but someone else joined the conversation.

"I think carnations are the best flowers!" Antonio announced.

"They are not! They are ripped off roses!" Francis shouted.

"What? You know carnations actually survive longer than roses!" Antonio exclaimed.

"Chillax! Both are cool, roses are just a tiny bit better!" Alfred interjected, trying to be a mediator but failing. Antonio rolled his eyes.

"What do you know about flowers?" He scoffed.

"Can everyone stop with these silly opinions and agree that sunflowers are the best flower?!" Ivan yelled. His tone wasn't menacing, and his face looked calm enough, but what was in his hands convinced everyone otherwise. Feli quickly cowered,

"Alright sunflowers can be the best, please don't hurt me!" Alfred ignored the Italian.

"You can't force us to think differently dude! Especially since like these are national flowers!" He explained. Ivan giggled,

"The sunflower isn't my national flower. I wish it was though."

"Huh. Guess not everyone sticks to their national flower. Anyone else here's favorite flower not their national one?" Alfred asked, curiously. He looked around, eager for some answers. He was excited to know he wasn't the only nation whose favorite flower wasn't their national one. Alfred avoided eye contact when he noticed Arthur grinning.

"The frog's favorite flower isn't his national one." The blond replied. Francis frowned and shot him an icy glare. Alfred gasped dramatically,

"That's so fucked up! I thought we shared a national flower! But seriously, how is the rose not your national flower?!" Francis's frown turned into a scowl. Antonio couldn't help but laugh seeing his friend look like that.

"America always has to get everything doesn't it?" Francis muttered. Arthur nudged the Frenchman in understanding, deciding to give some mercy.

"Tell me about it." He said.

"Can we get back to hearing who has a favorite flower that isn't their national one? The American pig and I are curious." Ivan confessed. Alfred pumped a fist up excitedly then paused.

"Hey I am not-" Ludwig pinched his nose and tuned out the oncoming fight. Feli patted his shoulder, comfortingly.

"We'll be out of here soon, Lud." He assured him.

"I hope so. This is getting very tiring." murmured Ludwig.

"So the cornflower is your national flower right?" Feli asked.

"Yes it is."

"My national flower is actually the white lily. It's very beautiful, but heliotropes have a special place in my heart."

"Oh why is that?"

"Welllll it was something that happened a long time ago. I'll tell you another time."

"Why-"

"FOR FUCKSAKES YOU GERMAN BASTARD COULD YOU STOP CHIT CHATTING WITH MY STUPIDO BROTHER AND STOP THESE OTHER BASTARDS?!" Ludwig sighed and headed over to where Alfred and Ivan had gotten physical. Why did flowers of all things make everyone so violent?

[digital999placebo]

This is out of the blue and I apologize but how do you think the nations act differently when they are drunk vs sober (if you don't mind me asking). Idk how to word this but like ... We see Germany as super serious but easy to bother usually but the one time we see him drink he's all :-D :-D :-D in that one photo. Meanwhile I'm pretty sure a drunk Italy would just be more chatty and flirty i.e. an exaggeration of his usual self.

i wanted 2 answer this with a drawing but ive had so little time 2 just sit down n draw lately so you get a wall of text. im sorry.

I do think Ludwig loosens up when he's drunk, loses the stick in his ass for once, n he's v easily entertained n physical touch becomes his number one love language when actual language fails him. He has learned from his past black out drunk mistakes to not speak so much bc he always says some unhinged shit that every1 remembers n brings up (nobody actually cares they only bring it up bc he gets so embarrassed over it), so the entire time he's drunk he's like "ok i only speak when necessary. the less words the better". And also he only really cuddles up to Feli when drunk, before he would do it to just anybody who didn't mind, but some night he put his head in Alice's lap n she braided his hair or whatever n Vene n Francoise wont stop bringing it up (again not that they care but its funny how embarrassed he gets) so yeah, he sticks to Feliciano now bc they're dating so it's easier to explain away. ALSO he’s the best dancer ever thanks to his extreme muscle control, he does the split on beat he can jump he can spin he can do it all, it’s an amazing sight to see.

Feliciano when drunk just wants to dance or fuck. He's either dragging his partner to the dance floor or to the toilet for a quick blowie, whichever is most convenient at that point. or he n Francoise lock themselves inside the bathroom n talk shit while fixing their hair or Francoise is touching up her makeup. Francoise n Feli tgether drunk is the loudest most obnoxious annoying thing ever, they talk loud and fast and with their hands n third parties can never ever keep up with their convo bc they switch subject all the time, n they go out to smoke like 15 times in one sentence. They’re like the *talks shit about a person for 2 hours* “but in the end….. if that’s what they wanna do then it’s like their body” “yeah we’re so open minded and nice” meme. Vene n Françoise r also like “I would literally eat u out if u asked<3” “omgggg<3 I would blow u if u asked<3”

Lovino is the drunk guy at the party sitting at the couch when he's not dancing, he's just trying to enjoy his buzz. He gets in fight with Gilbert over the aux cord.

Alice has never been at the perfect stage of drunkness, she always go above n beyond. Impressively tho she has never thrown up n she takes great pride in this. She’s not much for dancing but if Baxter Dury or some 90s britpop comes on?? She might…. she might…. she WILL

All ends with Ludwig having to carry home Lovino, Feliciano, Alice n Francoise.

Lukas, Matthias n Berwald r the type of drunks who leaves the group to go explore the neighbourhood or the city or just wherever they feel like. They go onto the subway and take whatever train comes first n just rides. They're also kinda like kids when drunk, in the aspect that if they're entirely quiet they're up 2 something they shouldnt b up to, and most likely Netherlands is there to watch the entire thing go down. Mattias is the annoying dude at a houseparty who goes through ur fridge n freeze; he'll start cooking shit at like 12pm n not even edible stuff. he just begins frying ur frozen hamburger patties in rum n coke, explaining why it's a superior dish that everyone should eat to Lukas, Berwald, n Lars (Netherlands). Berwald begins pouring leftover drinks into the frying pan to see what happens.

Berwald also teaches everyone the dirtiest pre-drink melodies (snapsvisor / shotvisor) ever n then mistranslates the lyrics like "uh yeah fitta means uh...... trees in swedish yeah its a song about nature" fitta means pussy smh

Gilbert is either traumadumping or screaming that he needs to queue EPIC songs for the dance floor, but they're all protestant psalms or like teutonic knights hymns. He's alone on the dance floor losing his shit to Psalm 148.

[tears-and-lilies]

@abitefullofwhump suggested the prompt “forced to beg”

Tag: @abitefullofwhump @unicornscotty

CW: threat of future noncon, captivity, royal whump, begging, asphyxiation, kneeling, nicknames, failed escape attempt, mention of death family, murder mention, noncon touching (non sexual)

***

It was night. Conrad couldn’t sleep. He was in his father’s bedroom, lying on his father’s bed.

Ludwig had told him he was finally allowed in here. 

‘This is where we’ll consume our marriage. Every night, we will share our love here. It’d be better if you got used to it.’

Tears filled his eyes. This was his father’s bedroom. Ludwig had killed his father. 

He didn’t know where Ludwig was. The spot next to him on the bed was empty. 

The door was open. Conrad’s heart raced, his mind jumping on the chance. He stood up, while trying to make as little sound as possible. That was easy, he and his brothers would sneak around often. He knew how to be quiet. 

He snuck on his toes towards the door. Oddly enough, the door was open. It probably had never been locked. Before Ludwig had brought him here, he had to swear over and over that he would stay unless told otherwise. 

I will stay here. I will obey only you.

I will stay here. I will obey only you.

I will stay here. I will obey only you.

I will stay…

He couldn’t make that man any promises that held value. 

When he reached the door, he pressed his back against the wall, slowly turning his head to look through the doorway. He had to make sure nobody was there. For all he knew, all of the castle was on Ludwig’s side. 

A hand appeared out of nowhere, grabbing Conrad’s throat and slamming him against the wall. The prince tried to gasp for air, but the large hand squeezed his airway shut. His own hands clawed at it in a hopeless attempt to get it off. 

Another hand appeared before him. It made a pulling movement in the air - it pulled off the hood of a cloak, and Ludwig’s head appeared.

Of course, the invisibility cloak...

‘My love’, he growled. ‘I trusted you.’

Conrad could only utter a pained squeaking noise.

‘There was a small commotion, and I had to leave you alone. Can’t I even leave you alone without you running away? You made a promise.’

Black spots clouded his vision. He was going to faint if he didn’t get air right now.

‘You royals are all the same. Nothing but lies and manipulation. You don’t deserve what you have.’

Ludwig’s eyes were like a thunderstorm. The man could kill him, here and now. Conrad would die.

‘Apologise. Apologise and beg for my forgiveness.’

He couldn’t speak, but his trembling lips tried to form the word “sorry”, over and over. The grip on his throat loosened. Immediately, the prince gasped, trying to gather all the air he could get. 

Sputtering, with tears falling down his cheeks, he said: ‘Sorry, sorry s-sorry sorry…’

‘Beg.’

‘Please. Please forgive me. Please!’ He fell to his knees and looked up to Ludwig. ‘Please forgive me!’

Ludwig showed a little smile. He ran his hand through Conrad’s hair. 

‘You pitiful thing. Nothing pleases me more than seeing a prince on his knees for me.’

Conrad couldn’t control his sobbing anymore.

[forgedraptor]

You know what? I actually believe that out of all the Dream Team, George is actually the motherhen/care-taker type

It may be different when the camera is rolling, or when hes being sarcastic and sassy but you can really see that this man has the patience of a saint and doesnt mind calmly and patiently talk to someone over something if they need help over it

Like the most recent being with Tommyinit, and how he got tips from George. Yeah, George hasnt finished a speedrun in a while but hes knowledgable over the topic and it doesnt really shock me as much knowing that he helped Tommy

Or another recent stream of him teaching Quackity how to play bedwars, you could see that Bad and him were actively trying to teach Quackity, even if it cost them the game or they lost. In the first parts, George would talk to them calmly and tried his best to give Quackity the general idea of the game, even when he stumbled a bit and got confused at times.

I mean look at his interactions witht the most recent MCC with Fruit, Ludwig and Karl

When Karl was getting stressed and confused George was there to calm him down and talk him through finding a way to fix his problem. When George was speaking to him you could see how relaxed his voice was, how chill his vibes were and how he calmly he was explaining rules and suggestions to help the more new team members: Ludwig and Karl

He was so attentive to them and didint mind taking the time to explain things and help them in understanding the game, even at the cost of his own

Theres also how in the older Quackity and Karl streams, whenever they did something dangerous or something that could possibly hurt them; George was there trying his best to desesculate the situation (even though he fails most of the time with these two and gives up half way lol)

Like when Karl first strated jumping on his chair as he popped off or the time he started to put things on fire, George would usually be worried and tell Karl to be careful. He also told Quackity this when he was streaming that one time and was dancing with open scissors; George was worried Quackity would hurt himself while his LOH was just a few minutes from starting

Or it could also be how soft he gets when interacting with kinder, softer people (like Bad or Niki) he doesnt exactly changed much, considering hes still a sassy asshole but you could see how hes less of a bitch with them and how hes calmer around them

And also how he interacts with most if not all animals he meets; not just irl but also in minecraft too. Hes so incredible soft and caring when he interacts with his pets (Dog and Cat) even going so far as holding them sweetly as if theyre babies

Then in minecraft, when hes not showing off or acting like a brat, he interacts with them kindly too; like the time he met with a strider and he saw it was cold and tried to help them, how he was softly speaking to a baby chicken to go to their mother hen, and how when he first got Beckerson he would go say hi to them on their little area and just stay with the fish and watch them for a while

Theres a lot of moments and times where you could see George switch from his 'sassy bitch mode' to his 'care-taker teacher mode'. Its usually the tone of his voice that changes and how his vibes suddenly get very calm and chill, and he also starts explaining things in detail to the other person

Idk i just believe this man is one of the most sweetest people youll ever meet, especially once you get to know him better; and makes me believe that hes the caring-parental type like Bad is :")

[takenbyheartstrings]

Yes, I’m Changing | Corpse x reader

pairing: Corpse x fem!reader

summary: as y/n infiltrates Corpse’s life and his life, he seems to be happier and more alive.

warnings: mentions of anxiety and depression, crying, fluff, angst and more fluff.

request: hello can i please request a corpse x reader where the reader and corpse meet and instantly become best friends and he starts to get happier around her and get a little less anxious - maybe like she’s his saviour? idk, also could you please make her voice the complete opposite of corpse himself? tysm 🤍🤍

a/n: tysm for requesting! i hope this lives upto your expectations ^-^ OBVIOUSLY most of this is made up - and i’m talking about the Leslie and Corpse storyline - so please don’t come @ me S,JDFNKJSDNF

alSO KINDA SHORT IM SORRY

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

You sighed as you logged onto discord ready for your stream, your setup was your favourite colour, so you clicked on your webcam with a smile and clicked to start the stream. People soon started to flood in.

“Hey guys!” You smiled taking a drink of water, “Welcome to the stream, we’re playing Among Us today with Rae and Sykkuno and a few more new friends! I think Corpse is coming to play with us, I’m excited to meet him!”

You quickly joined the discord call, Ludwig, Rae, Sykunno, Toast, Leslie, Poki, Felix and Sean had already joined, so as soon as I joined that was 9/10 of the lobby.

“Hey guys!” You giggled happily.

“Hey Y/n!” They all greet you happily, as you adjust your headphones on your head, pulling your mic a tad bit closer.

Soon one more person joined the discord call, “Hey,” a deep yet soothing voice speaks up.

“Woah.” You mutter quickly realising your mic discord isn’t muted.

Corpse laughs, you two were the only one’s in the lobby who didn’t know each other, “I’m Corpse, and you must be y/n.” You can hear his smile through the screen, “Big fan.”

Your face flushes red and chat takes notice, “Yes, that is me, I am y/n, and I, personally am very excited to meet you!” You cheer, trying to keep your cool.

“Holy shit guys.” Rae chuckles, “Their voices are complete opposite - it’s like the angel and the devil.”

“Hmmm maybe,” You perk up, “I guess I’d be the devil then.”

Corpse chuckles at your comment as the round starts as you smile because of his laugh, proud of yourself that you made the man, the myth, the legend, Corpse Husband laugh.

That was a year and a half ago.

You knocked on the door tugging on your grey sweater as he opened the door quickly, letting you in, before pulling off his mask as soon as the door had closed behind you. Corpse smiled at you as you hurried inside placing Grocery bags on the kitchen counter.

The two of you decided to rent a place together in LA to be closer to your friends and open up a new line of opportunities. Well, that’s how you pitched it to your best friend.

Anyway, it was game night at the Corpse x Y/n residence, last week was at Sykkuno’s house where you all played What Do You Meme, now it was yours and Corpse’s turn. Playing Cards Against Humanity because they all knew you guys had the largest collection of cards. You quickly set out everything on the table as Corpse just admired you from the couch.

“You could help, y’know.” You glared at him as he sat there watching you.

Corpse pretended to think about it, “Well, if I try to help you’re just gonna push me away and do everything yourself anyway.” He smirks - he’s right. You know he is. He knows he is. Everyone know’s he is. You’re a control freak.

You huff, “So what?”

“So what?” Corpse lets out the loudest laugh he can, “Last time you almost broke my finger!!”

You pause, before leaving it at that, Corpse just chuckles as he sits there, you finish in no less than ten minutes, “It’s gonna be fine.”

“Never said I wasn’t.” You retort.

Corpse looks at you, “I know you better than anyone, y/n.” It’s gonna be okay.

And he was right, the night went great. Everyone was smiling and laughing and having fun. It was a night to remember, mostly because Rae almost got blackout drunk and Toast and Sykkuno had to take her home early. But she’d just laugh it off in the morning after you call her and make sure she’s okay.

Corpse stands up, “Anyone need a drink?” He questions, as everyone shake’s their heads. Leslie actually changes her mind and follows him around the corner to a small kitchen.

A lot of people wouldn’t have known this, but Lesilie and Corpse met way before he met Felix or anyone current. She looks at him with a soft smile as she watches him get her a drink from the fancy fridge they have in their house.

“What?” Corpse questions noticing Leslie’s look.

Leslie chuckles, “You love her, dude,” She sighs before he can protest it, “Don’t try to say that I’m wrong either. She’s changed you, you’re slightly happier now, you’re making your way up there, she lifts your spirits every single day and you should see the way you fucking look at her, because I know you don’t know. You love her dude and she loves you too, think about it.”

Leslie leaves the kitchen as her and Edison are the only ones left in the house, it was kinda sad to see it without people in it but you smiled regardless. “That was really fun tonight, thanks Corpse!”

Corpse smiles as you do, “Always. But I’m super beat, gonna try and get some sleep.” In reality, he wasn’t. He was just gonna think about what Leslie said all night.

She was right. You loved him. But you couldn’t tell him that because 99.9% of the time they didn’t reciprocate those feelings back. She had learned not to try with love anymore. So you were sitting in bed that night thinking about a life where you had something good. You had love and comfort. Though you felt it was never going to happen.

Corpse was doing the same - he didn’t take the shots because he was scared. He thinks about her. All the fuckin’ time. How he’s so glad she joined that lobby. Leslie was right she made him happier. She made his life better. Way fucking better. He thought about a life with her, that it would be so good to call her his girlfriend. Never have to see her with another guy again - because yes. He was jealous of all the one’s she’d bring home after a night out with her friends. But she didn’t know they would come out and he’d scare them off.

He didn’t know he was doing that - not intentionally.

Your music fades out of your head as you try to fall asleep to it, but it fails coming back into earshot. You turn to the opposite side of the music. You tossed and turned before standing up out of bed. You had to do it. You had to tell him how you feel and you had to do it now. Something made you compelled to do it. Something made you need to do it.

You opened your bedroom door stepping out of it quickly walking down the hall over to Corpse’s room. 

Your anxiety started to spike, you could feel tears on the brims of your eyes - you were starting to overthink.

“What if he doesn’t love me back”

“What if he’s in love with someone else”

Corpse was having the same spike of anxiety, as he started to overthink feeling his stomach - his gut churn. He knew he had to tell you. No matter how anxious he was, he was willing to take that 50/50 chance. You were practically speed walking, and so was he. The two of you ran into each other, falling onto the floor opposite of each other, your hands catching you, breaking your fall. You yelped before you both chuckled and Corpse helped you up. The two of you hadn’t realise how close you were until Corpse spoke and you could feel the warmth of his breath and minty toothpaste on your face.

“Corpse I- I need to tell you something.” He stopped you.

“No- I do.”

“Corpse I have to tell you!”

“Y/N I LOVE YOU!” Corpse yells pulling away from you as he starts to pace, “I can’t go a day without missing you - I can’t go a day without you here. I crumble, I fall apart. You make me happier, nobody’s done that before. You are a light to my life, you are my sun, you are everything to me and I don’t know how to live without you - how to function. You went to VidCon for three days and I fell apart completely. I. Love. You.”

At this point Corpse didn’t know what he was saying. He was just going with his gut. You sat there shocked. You just smiled at him after a while. You ran towards him and jumped into his arms pressing a kiss to his lips and then pressing them all over the rest of his face.

He was relieved to say the least - probably guessing this is what you were going to tell him and he loved that - he could finally love you.

He carried you to his bedroom, which would soon be the two of yours as it was larger in size and fell asleep comfortably in each others arms as the warmth of Corpse’s body radiated onto yours. His arms around you, holding you to never let you go. To never get hurt. To protect you from all the bad in the world.

The two of your feelings were finally at peace. It was a beautiful masterpiece called love. You changed Corpse for the better and he changed you for it too. You both lived in perfect harmony with each other. It was a comfort you had never truely felt before - same to him. Something that the both of you never wanted to let go of. Let alone each other.

[koolkat9]

AmeLiet Week 2022: Day 1

So I forgot this was happening this month so I’m a little behind on my fics for it. All of them will be at least a day late, but I hope you all enjoy!

@amelietweek

Prompt:  Mertalia/Nostalgia/Colors/Flowers

Rating: T

Pairing: AmeLiet with a side of GerEng

Word Count: 1376

Author’s Note: This is based in my au for “In the Deep” which is a multi-chapter GerEng fic I’m working on. You don’t have to read that to understand this fic, but it would be nice if you checked it out. 

It’s Nice to Meet You

Alfred would never get tired of the smell of the salt and the cool breeze in his hair. When he had joined Captain Kirkland’s crew five years ago, he had done it out of necessity. It was either life as a cabin boy or life as a street urchin, and only one of those offered the security of food and shelter. But now, at eighteen, Alfred couldn’t imagine his life in any other way. 

He was enjoying his break with his brother Matthew at the front of the ship, watching the waves and rocks go by when something caught his eye. On a distant rock, a figure laid motionless. Unfortunately, it was too far to see what exactly it was, so Alfred quickly pulled out his telescope. “Something’s up ahead,” Alfred called to Matthew as he tried to focus the lens. 

“What is it?” Matthew asked. 

“Not sure…Give me a sec.”

As the rock came into focus, Alfred could make out what appeared to be a human figure bleeding out. But it wasn’t human. Where there should have been legs, there was a long, sparkling fishtail. 

“Get Captain,” he said sharply. 

“Wha–”

“Get Captain now. There’s an injured mermaid up ahead.”

Without any more questions, Matthew rushed to the back of the ship.

—

“Is he alive?” Alfred asked as Ludwig climbed down onto the rock. 

“He’s breathing,” Ludwig noted.

Alfred had been ansty since he told Matthew to get the captain. Captain Kirkland and his merman fiance Ludwig were quick to jump into action as soon as they were notified. Alfred and Matthew watched as Ludwig spoke to the unconscious merman in his native language of clicks and squeaks only to fail in waking him up. “He’s out cold,” Ludwig sighed.

“Bring him on the ship love, and we’ll tend to those wounds,” Captain Kirkland interjected as he arrived on the scene. 

Ludwig nodded before carefully picking the injured merman up and climbing back onto the ship. “Alfred, go collect some wet towels to keep him hydrated, and Matthew, go assist the medic.”

Both the boys saluted their captain before rushing off to do their duty.

—

The merman would remain asleep for days. Captain Kirkland had assured Alfred that it was for the best so his body could heal, but Alfred couldn’t help but worry. He was the one to first spot the merman, so he felt it was his responsibility to look after him now. He had stayed by the merman’s bedside since he was first moved into the infirmary room, ensuring that he was kept hydrated. Luckily with their medic Yao and Ludwig’s knowledge of merfolk anatomy, it looked as though the merman would be fine as long as they kept wet towels on him. 

On the third or fourth day (Alfred had lost count), the merman finally began to stir. His eyes shot open revealing a cloudy blue which quickly became panicked as he noticed where he was. 

“Hey there,” Alfred said with a wave, only for the merman to attempt and bite him after his hand got too close. “Geez. Hey, hey. I’m not going to–would you quit that–I’m not going to hurt you.” But regardless of Alfred’s attempts to assure the merman, the creature just kept biting and thrashing, unable to run due to his injury. His tale became legs as he attempted to kick Alfred. Trying to avoid the sharp teeth and kicking legs, Alfred tripped over his chair and crashed to the floor.

That was when Captain Kirkland and Ludwig stormed in. “What’s with all that racket boy?” the captain hissed. His disposition immediately softened when he saw the scene in front of him: The merman pressed as close to the headboard of the bed as he could be and Alfred scraping himself up from the floor. “Ludwig?”

“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it,” Ludwig sighed, “Alfred wait outside with Arthur.”

“But–”

“Come on lad,” Arthur urged, patting the boy on the shoulder, “We don’t want to stress him even more.”

“Fine…”

Ludwig emerged a few minutes later, exhausted and slightly pale. “I got him to calm down,'' he explained, “But I need to get to water. Alfred, can you watch him?”

“Of course.”

“Just don’t push him too much. Most of us don’t take too kindly to humans.”

“Don’t worry Ludwig. I’ve got this.”

Ludwig gave him a weary look before Captain Kirkland began leading him towards the upper. It was just Alfred and the merman now. 

“H-Hey there,” Alfred greeted as he entered the room. The merman just glared at him, his long unkempt hair making him appear larger and more intimidating. “Imma just sit right over here just in case you need anything.”

They lapsed into silence, with the merman staring daggers into the cabin boy across from him. If Alfred didn’t like silence before, he definitely didn’t like it when he was getting a killer glare from a creature that could very well bite his arm off. “S-S-So…What’s your name?” Alfred asked, trying to make small talk.

There was no reply. 

“Well mine is Alfred, but most just call me Al. Your scales are really pretty by the way. Never seen that kind of colour before. Like bluish-green? I’ve always loved blue…” And so, to fill the silence and keep himself calm, Alfred rambled on, jumping from topic to topic. As he talked, he managed to find some paper and thus began to craft flowers to keep his hands busy. 

“What are you doing?” the mermaid finally asked. 

“Oh, this?" Alfred lifted up the half-made paper stem. Just a little craft the Captain used to do, and that I picked up on. Flowers don’t last long to decorate the ship so we’ve learned to make some to liven up our living quarters a bit.” Alfred grabbed a spare vase that had been leftover from the last time the small medic bay was used. He placed his creations inside. “Can I put this on your bedside table?”

The mermaid was silent for a moment before finally nodding and letting Alfred approach. “I’ve never seen land flowers before,” The merman whispered, his eyes on the vase instead of Alfred. 

“Really? Well, these are roses. Captain’s favorite and mine too!”

The merman’s gaze softened ever so slightly as he reached out to touch the paper petals. “They aren’t as soft or as pretty as the real thing,” Alfred explained, “But they do fine.”

“So are you guys kidnapping me?”

“What?”

“Are you going to take me to land as a freakshow? Or are you going to sell me off to some poachers?”

“No way. We haven’t even moved from where we found you. Once your injury heals enough you’ll be good to go. Didn’t Ludwig explain this to you?”

“Yes but–”

“Well if you don’t believe Ludwig I take it you won’t believe me whatever I say. Wait! I can show you if you want. But you probably can’t stand on your own. If you’re comfortable I can help you over to the window.”

The merman’s lips pursed as he thought it over. “Fine,” he agreed with a sigh.

Alfred offered him his hand and pulled the merman up. The merman stumbled slightly, but luckily Alfred was there to break his fall. “Th-Thank you,” The merman mumbled.

“Don’t mention it,” Alfred beamed.

Together the two made their way over to the window. Just as Alfred had said, the rock they had found the merman on was still right beside them. 

“You don’t have to worry about us,” Alfred assured him, “Captain wouldn’t let any harm come to any of you seafolk. He fell in love with one after all. Plus it’s just the right thing to do."

“Right thing to do huh?”

“Oh you’re probably hungry,” Alfred exclaimed, not having heard what the merman said.

“I-I guess.” 

Alfred helped the merman back over to the bed and sat him down. 

“I’ll go get you something to eat,” Alfred said, “You just rest.”

The merman watched as Alfred made his way to the door. “Tolys,” he murmured just before Alfred headed out. 

“Huh?”

“My name…Humans call me Tolys.”

“Oh!” Alfred smiled wide. “Well, it’s nice to meet you, Tolys.”

“I-It’s nice to meet you too Alfred.”

[tf2-headcanons-and-scenarios]

A/N: Been a while since I did a one-shot, so here’s some fluff for your fine morning/afternoon/evening! I apologise if I got anything inaccurate with ACNH Game Mechanics etc., I don’t own the game so I wouldn’t know 😂

Note: Jeremy (Scout), Lawrence (Sniper), Ludwig (Medic), Misha (Heavy), Francis (Spy)

You had been sitting at home doing nothing but paperwork for Mann. Co all day, and you were honestly tired. Your only forms of distraction was through texting your workmates and boyfriend to calm your levels of stress. You had also promised Jeremy a session on Animal Crossing New Horizons, but you were sure he already passed out from playing it at around 1 in the morning.

Speaking of such a horrendous time, you picked up and finished another mug of coffee, just as you had finished up on your paper. Happily sending it off to Pauling, you put everything away and went to bed. By going to bed, you were going to maintain your small island until you fell asleep.

Jumping online, you exited out of your house and noticed you had mail. Collecting the letter, you began reading it:

Follow the flower trail of red roses.

L.M

You were curious to what your boyfriend meant by flower trail, but curious as ever you began to try and find the start of the trail. After being chased by a tarantula (and failing to catch it), you found the start of the trail.

You followed the tulips to an area of the island you had been reserving for flower hybrids for weeks, but you were really surprised to see hybrids and flowers you didn’t have on your island before. And there in the middle of it were a few decorative items you found absolutely adorable and well-themed to your house and island. And there in the middle of it all were the AC avatars of Lawrence, Misha and Ludwig.

Ludwig: SURPRISE!

Misha: SURPRISE!

Lawrence: SURPRISE!

[y/n]: Wait, what did you guys do? OoO

Lawrence: I wanted to surprise you with something. I got Ludwig and Misha to help.

Ludwig: And you got Francis to help too. He had the really nice hybrids he was willing to share.

Misha: It was easy to donate materials for new furniture. I had loads in inventory :D

You didn’t know what to say, you had not expected this at all. You continued to stare at the beautiful arrangement of flowers, and you couldn’t stop smiling.

[y/n]: You guys r the best, I don’t know how to thank u!

Lawrence: Just tell Jeremy to keep his hands off of the hybrids :)

Ludwig: I mean, you CAN reward us, but that won’t be necessary. If you insist I HAVE been looking for a skeleton to put in my house ;)

Misha: I have enough. Do not need anything more.

You, Lawrence, Ludwig and Misha kept playing on each other’s islands until Misha and Ludwig logged off for the evening. This left you and Lawrence alone with one another, giving you the chance to personally thank your Aussie boyfriend with an in-game date where you both did anything he wanted. You fell asleep to the sight of your avatars acting happily in each other’s company.

The following morning, you woke up to a text message from Lawrence:

Sweet dreams luv <3

[inkstaineddove]

For the Love of a Father

Ships: PruHun

Characters: Hungary, Prussia, Germany; Austria

Summary: Hungary travels to Berlin to spend the weekend with Prussia and a young Germany. Due to silly misunderstandings and mortal assumptions, Gilbert convinces everyone to pretend that he and Erzsébet are married and Ludwig is their son. But there's only one question: why is he so eager for this charade?

Berlin, 1865.

The house was a warzone when Erzsébet arrived. Toy soldiers had taken over every corner of the living room, lined up in their formations. She lifted her skirts up and gingerly tip-toed around the rearguard. ��Gil? Are you here?”

Before she had time to process further what was occurring, she felt a pair of tiny arms wrap around her waist. “Erzsi!” Ludwig stared up at her, a grin stretched wide across his face. “Are you the reinforcements we asked for?”

She hoisted him up into her arms. “That depends. Who are we fighting?”

“We’re invading Bohemia. Traun finally engaged us. The battle should be over in another hour due to our infantry’s superiority.”

As Ludwig spoke, Gilbert had managed to make his way over to them. Erzsébet shot him a look. “You’re still hung up on Bohemia?” She shook her head at his sheepish expression. She studied the battle occurring on the floor. “You’ve got a spot wide open for my hussars to swoop in on your left flank. It would be so easy to ride in and scatter your whole army.” She winked at Gilbert. “Better work on that calvary again.”

“Lud, go clean them up.” Once Ludwig had scampered off, Gilbert crossed his arms. “That was very rude, I’ll have you know. We were on the cusp of victory and losing that battle might dissolve the whole coalition.”

“It’s your fault for deciding today would be the day to fight Austria. Sorry for wanting my side to win. Next time I’ll throw the whole damn thing for you.” She gave him a quick peck on the lips. “Cheer up. It’s not like I took back Silesia.”

“If you had, then we would have a problem on our hands.” He hoisted up her bag, bringing it further into the home. “I meant to mention this to you earlier, but today’s not going to be too exciting. Some kid refuses to stop growing so I have to get him some new clothes.” Gilbert nodded to one of his servants, who took the bag off his hands. “The kid wants to make a whole day out of it, so I really hope you don’t mind too much. Tomorrow can be for us.”

He was beginning to ramble. “Oh dear me, spending the whole day with you and Ludwig. How ever will I cope with such a thing?” Erzsébet rolled her eyes. “You realize that I care about Ludwig, right? I come here to spend time with both of you. It’ll be a lovely day.” She leaned in for a kiss.

“Can we go now?” Ludwig scrunched up his nose. “Do you two always have to be doing that in front of me? Is this why Roderich gets so upset by it? It really is disgusting.” He paused, something formulating in his mind. “Is he going to be mad about this again the next time I see him?”

Gilbert and Erzsébet shared a look. He began hustling Ludwig out the door, not wanting to hear any more of this from the damn child of all people. “You’re asking too many questions again.”

---

As Ludwig’s measurements were being taken by the seamstress, Erzsébet wandered around the store. Some of the dresses they had on display were quite stunning. She found herself drawn to a few of them. She visited often enough, what harm would there be in placing an order and having Gilbert pick it up for her?

“Don’t you think you have enough? I doubt you have the closet space at this point.” Gilbert snuck up on her, sliding his arm around her waist. He appraised the dress she was eyeing out. “You have one that looks like this already.”

“Not in this color!” She nudged him with her elbow. “Wouldn’t it be good for me to build up a wardrobe here? It would be easier on me.”

There was an argument he couldn’t counter. It didn’t hurt that she was smiling up at him, her eyes filled to the brim with affection. She always pulled this trick on him and it never failed to work. “You’ll look gorgeous in it.”

“Gilbert!” A middle-aged woman appeared from behind the counter, waddling over to them. “Back again so soon? Why, you were just here the other week!”

“Frau Scholz, it’s good to see you again.” Gilbert sighed dramatically. “I know, it’s incredible. The boy keeps on growing and he refuses to stop. I’m starting to think he’s doing it just to spite me.”

“I’m surprised he doesn’t take more after you. When we were children, it took you so long to ever get a growth spurt.” Erzsébet snickered. “I thought you would’ve stayed tiny forever.”

Before Gilbert could fire back his own remark, Frau Scholz had jumped in. “Is this your wife? How have I never met her before? And so beautiful too!”

That threw both of them for a loop. A blush bloomed across Erzsébet’s cheeks. She was suddenly very aware of where his arm was. She opened her mouth to correct the seamstress.

“Isn’t she stunning? Not a day passes where I don’t wonder how I ever got to be so lucky. How many years have we been married now? Doesn’t matter, I should’ve brought her over sooner. But she’s so busy! Aren’t you, Liebling?” His eyes met hers. He was silently begging her to go along with the act.

“Doesn’t matter? Not when these past nine have been the best of my life.” She laughed softly, leaning into him. Where was the harm in going all in on the act? “Yes, my father’s fallen ill and there’s no other children to care for him. That explains my absences, I hope you’ll forgive us both.”

Whatever hurt was there completely disappeared. Frau Scholz took Erzsébet’s hand in hers. “Sweetie, there’s no reason to apologize for that. Family comes first, I understand. I have some more work to attend to, but all the best to your father. And, when you have the time, please don’t be a stranger.” She disappeared from back which she came.

Gilbert raised an eyebrow at her in surprise. “Going straight to the dying father? Way to pull the sympathy card.”

Erzsébet scoffed. “I needed to give her an acceptable reason for why your wife hasn’t tagged along before. You were too ready for that. It’s almost suspicious, Gil.” She watched him out the corner of her eye.

He made no effort to hide his happiness. “You really think I could’ve planned for that? You’re giving me too much credit.” He gently bumped her with his hip. “Have some fun with it. We can play married for a day. Now you’ll have a husband you actually love. Besides, you’re the one who’s still wearing her wedding ring. What do you want me to tell people? That I’m your mistress?”

There was a good point there. Did it really matter anyways? She doubted that anyone from Vienna would be here and, if they were, would they really be surprised? How she spent her weekends was hardly secret. The escapism of pretending to live another life would be enjoyable. Still, there was one thing nagging at the back of her mind. “Where does that leave Roderich in this little fantasy?”

Gilbert’s smile was ferocious. “Easy. He officiated for us.” Ludwig meandered about, looking round for them. “You all set, kid? Let’s go get lunch.”

The walk to the restaurant was short as it laid only three stores down. It was fairly casual, with different classes of families seated throughout, and unsurprisingly bustling for a Friday afternoon. They took a spot in the corner of the room, the farthest they could get from the other patrons.  

Ludwig’s legs were swinging furiously beneath the table. He was passionately filling Erzsébet in on the details of his life since he’d seen her a month ago. “Gilbert’s been trying to teach me to play the flute! It’s weird though, I don’t like how you have to hold it.” Spotting a schnauzer outside the window, he perked up considerably. “I really want a dog. Gilbert won’t let me get one. Can you convince him? Please, Erzsi, he always listens to you.”

She shrugged. What did she have to lose? “Gil, will you please get him a dog? Look at how pathetic he is.” She leaned over the table, stage-whispering advice to Ludwig. “Pout a little bit. That always works.” Ludwig faithfully obeyed. He even batted his eyes for good measure.

Despite knowing what was coming, Gilbert felt his heartstrings tug. An internal debate warred within him. “We’re not getting a dog.” It was important for him to keep his resolve. He gave in to too much as it was, he needed to pretend to be assertive towards them every now and then. “I don’t want to be the one responsible for the damn thing.”

“You won’t be! I’ll take care of him! Besides, aren’t you the one who’s always saying I need to learn responsibility? There’s no better way to teach me!” Ludwig had his whole argument prepared. He had been getting ready for this moment the whole week, confident that between his rational arguments and Erzsébet’s strange powers that Gilbert would change his mind.

Right when he was ready to begin it, the waiter appeared. The waiter performed the usual introduction before having his attentions settle on Ludwig. “What an adorable little boy! How old might you be?”

Met with a social interaction he hadn’t prepared for, Ludwig panicked. “Ah-I don’t know, I think I’m close to thirty now.” He looked across the table at the adults, silently begging them for intervention.

Gilbert laughed heartily. “Kid thinks he’s thirty. Drives us both crazy. You know how eight-year olds are.”

“Well, no matter what it is, your son is adorable. Now, are you all ready to order?” After fulfilling his purpose, they were left alone again.

Ludwig turned his sights on Gilbert immediately. “Your son? We’re brothers! Why didn’t you correct him?” His blue eyes were sparkling with intense curiosity.

It was Gilbert’s turn to be caught off-guard. He stumbled with the question in his mind, trying to gather his bearings and create a sufficient enough answer. “People treat us better if they think you’re our kid. Humans have a difficult time comprehending our real ages and relationships. It’s easier to go along with whatever they think.” Proud of his response, he leaned back and smirked. “So, for today, Erzsi and I are married and you’re our son. Start calling us Mutti and Vatti.”

Erzsébet rolled her eyes. “I am not a Mutti. If we’re doing this, call me Anya. Motherhood sounds so much nicer in my language.”

“Whatever you want, Anya.” Ludwig tested it out. Oddly enough, it didn’t feel unnatural to refer to her in such a way. Why did it feel so easy, as if it was what he was meant to do all along? Examining those emotions seemed beyond his realm of experience. He filed them away, where they could be examined at a later time. He appraised Gilbert, who was staring at him with what appeared to be eagerness. Why was that? Never mind that, if he was so eager maybe Ludwig could use that to his advantage. He scrunched up his nose. “What do I get for following along? For you it’s difficult. You’re not exactly fatherly.”

Unbeknownst to Ludwig, Erzsébet comfortingly rubbed Gilbert’s thigh. That remark knocked the wind out of him. He knew exactly what the kid wanted. There was no mystery to what he was angling for, some discreet strategy that needed to be deciphered. “I’ll get you the damn dog.” There were times for being firm and this was not one of those times.

“You’re the best, Vatti!” His wish finally being fulfilled, Ludwig broke into a long debate on the merits of each breed he found most attractive. He’d meticulously researched the habits of each and how they would integrate fully into their household. He’d had this planned and memorized for months, waiting for the day when Gilbert’s will finally broke.

He spoke unceasingly on the topic all through lunch. It continued even when they entered the park, only interrupted by Erzsébet gently cutting in. “Look, kicsim, there’s a whole group of kids over there. Why don’t you go see what they’re up to?” She gently nudged him along before he had any chance to protest.

“Couldn’t handle any more?” Gilbert slipped his hand in hers. They began walking along the path. Other couples, lost in their own worlds, passed them by.

“Absolutely not.” It was a lovely day out. A light breeze was blowing, making it cooler than it would be otherwise. It was no wonder why so many people were out today. Out the corner of her eye, she watched Gilbert. He was humming softly to himself, a content little smile inching up the corners of his mouth. She tried to recall a time when she saw him this at peace. She couldn’t. “You’re too happy.”

“Hm?” He had been lost in his thoughts. It took him a moment to process what she said. When he did, he chuckled. “Why wouldn’t I be? I’m having a wonderful day with my son and my wife, who I love so dearly.” His smile widened. “God, I love saying that. Doesn’t it just sound so natural?”

Now his giddiness made sense. “Calm down, no one can hear us. You don’t have to keep the act up.” If she was being honest with herself, something she was loath to do, it did have a nice ring to it coming from him.

He nudged her with his elbow. “I don’t care if anyone can hear us, let me have my fantasies for today.” Said fantasies were racing through his mind. “The kids young enough, he could get used to this. I think we’d be fine if we settled down, had a few children of our own. They’d give me a plum job in the military or for the king as thanks for my years of service. The higher up you are, the less work you have to do. We’d be able to do whatever we wanted.”

She sighed, listening to him prattle on. This seemed too thought out to only be a whim. If she squinted, she could easily see the life he’d envisioned. It was almost tempting. “What a lovely life you have planned. We would never be satisfied. It’s too quaint for either of us.” She gently rubbed his right forearm. “Though, in another lifetime, I think I would enjoy that one.”

“Why can’t we have it in this one? Don’t be so pessimistic.” The look she shot him caused him to roll his eyes. “We could get away with it if we wanted.”

How to explain to him that ‘want’ wasn’t the issue? Hungary considered her words carefully. “Fine, say we do this. How do you think Roderich will react? I don’t think he’d take too kindly to our little scheme. He would be hard-pressed to convince his ministers to declare war or have legal recourse to continue seeing Ludwig, but that only spares you. What of my people?” She kicked the unfortunate pebble standing before her. “It wouldn’t be out of character for him to seek retribution against them. For the first time, I would be powerless to do anything about it.”

That certainly painted the whole idea in a much bleaker light. What she brought up was the truth; he had nothing to argue against it. Gilbert sighed. “I suppose you’re right.”

She kissed his cheek. “Don’t be so glum. Tonight, reality can be damned. I’m yours until midnight, kincsem.” A mischievous glint flashed in her eyes. “Or, if you prefer, we can keep up this act for the rest of the weekend. You make a fine husband.”

Her words appeared to have their desired effect. He was in high spirits once more with a spring in his step. “There’s no harm in us continuing our little fun.” Ludwig meandered over to them, appearing worn out. “You ready to head home, Lud?” The boy weakly nodded his head. “Alright, come on. You’re not walking in that shape.” Gilbert hoisted him up onto his back. It wasn’t long before Ludwig was gently snoring into his shoulder.

The sight caused a warmth to spread from Erzsébet’s chest outwards. “You’re adorable.” For her comment, Gilbert winked at her.

The walk home didn’t take too long. The park was only a block away. Unlocking the door presented an unexpected challenge. He sighed, not wanting to bounce Ludwig around and risk waking him up. “Can you take the key out?” Erzsébet began digging around in his front pocket. Her hand took hold and his face turned a brilliant scarlet. “That’s not my key.”

“I know.” His blush deepened as she threw open the door. That could be dealt with later, his primary focus now was on tucking Ludwig in. He was pleasantly surprised to hear Erzsébet following him to Ludwig’s room.

Once underneath the covers, Ludwig wiggled around to get comfortable. Gilbert’s heart lurched. He was like an adorable little worm. “G’night Vatti, Anya.” The words were murmured through sheets, but they seemed so loud to Gilbert. His heart felt ready to explode.

He floated out of the room, never feeling so much joy in his life. He collapsed onto the sofa, clutching a hand to his chest. A dream he had been fulfilled. Erzsébet took the space besides him and he moved so his head was in her lap. Gazing up, he could see how the corners of her mouth lifted up.

“How long had you been waiting for this?” She twirled strands of his hair around her fingers.

“You know that’s a complicated question.”

“I can handle a complicated answer.” She chuckled softly. “It’s me, remember? I can manage your honesty.”

He sighed, wistful. “I think I’d been waiting for that longer than I realized. You think I could convince him to go along with that from now on? How difficult could it be?” The hope in his voice felt pathetic, but he found it impossible to suppress. His body was thrumming.

“Ah, so he’s not a puppet to you anymore?” Erzsébet closed her eyes, considering her words carefully. Honesty was needed, but it didn’t have to be cruel. “I think you should’ve been upfront with him from the beginning. Then you could have avoided this mess in the first place.”

“You know that wasn’t an option.” Gilbert knew she was being reasonable. He pointedly averted his eyes from her, lasering in on an old painting of an ancient battle on the wall. “For my sake, it couldn’t have been. It’s easier to manipulate a sibling instead of a son.”

She rolled her eyes. “So I’ve gathered from watching you and Roderich at work.” She raised a hand, silencing his objections. “It’s not a criticism. Purely an observation, don’t be so defensive.” She shook her head. “I’m not surprised you don’t see him as a puppet anymore. I didn’t believe you or Roderich when either of you tried explaining that to me. When did that change?”

When had it? A series of images flashed to mind – waking up to find a small body snuggled into his bed; blue eyes staring at him with awe as he regaled him with bygone victories; little feet scampering after him, wanting to keep up. “I don’t know. It just kind of…happened. Ludwig, he’s a good kid.” He paused. “Why aren’t you more surprised?”

“Because I know you, Gil. Maybe you can fool the rest of the world that you’ve evolved beyond a desire for personal connection, but you could never fool me.” Despite teasing him, her tone was incredibly loving. “Ludwig idolizes you, he thinks you’re the savior of the world. How could that cause you to not admit the truth to yourself? For your sake, I wish you’d done so sooner.”

“And why’s that?” He knew her answer, but he hoped he would be wrong.

“You can’t tell him one thing than tell him another. He’s smarter than that, he’ll have too many questions. Questions that I doubt you’re ready to answer.” His silence confirmed her suspicions. She smiled sadly. “Keeping him at a distance was always going to be futile. I tried telling you that, but you didn’t want to listen. Neither of you did.”

“You can’t blame me for not realizing that this is what I wanted.” It sounded so weak and uncompelling, even to his own ears. He exhaled loudly through his nose. “I made the right decision though?” Gilbert’s eyes finally met hers. He needed her to lie to him, just this once.

“I can’t decide that for you.” Erzsébet leaned down and kissed him on the forehead. “For what it’s worth, I don’t think you made the wrong one.”

“But you think there was a better one.”

A genuine smile broke free across her face. “Don’t I always think that about whatever you do?” She laughed, the action feeling much needed. “Don’t be so glum. Seeing you so serious isn’t natural.” He could only muster up the faintest of smiles. “That wasn’t convincing, but I’ll take it.” She rose, stretching.

His eyes settled on her, having no where else to be. “Where are you going?”

“To have a little rest. In my excitement to see you both, I woke up much too early.” She extended her hand to him. “Will my husband be joining me?”

So she was still continuing with their little charade? Gilbert smiled, this time one unfeigned. “Maybe later. You go ahead. I may catch up with you.” Once alone, he rolled to face the ceiling. There were no answers up there, but he wished they would appear. It was too soon in Ludwig’s, in Germany’s, life for Gilbert to be having such regrets. He chided himself for his foolishness.

“I’m doing the right thing.” He whispered it to himself like a prayer. He would convince himself of this, any doubts remaining would have to be eradicated. There was no question that this was what’s right.

At least, it had to be. For his sanity.

[chibiclem]

“Hetalia Hospital AU : Hospitalized scarred boy”

The idea came to be after listening this song in rows : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJI4Gv7NbmE

*******

*The Hetalia Hospital AU  isn't an original idea of mine, since I was inspired by fanfic around the matter and for some elements. However, the story itself is all mine. *

The storyline: 

Feliciano Vargas is a 8-year old boy hospitalized for 3 month now in a Pediatric Hospital. He is an accustomed patient  for Dr Fernandez Carriedo (Orthopedic surgeon), since it's the 4th time in 3 years he ends up in the orthopedic yard. It's at his 3rd time here that Antonio started to worry and suspect something was wrong, as Feliciano would have too many "accidents", and weird wounds. With divorced parent and a father nowhere to be seen, a 16-year old brother that ran away from home, a mother that never visit him at the hospital and his middle school Teacher Elizabeth Hedervaty ringing the alarm bells to the autorities, the Pediatric pratician definitively understood what was hidden behind those wounds. And this time, this fall in the stairs that almost caused him brain damage was the one last injuries he was going to have, Antonio promised himself! The matter is.... Feliciano deny everything, reporting all the fault on his own carelessness, and even if they know very much he's lying and protecting the one making him suffer, they can't take action as long as the boy doesn't tell them and the autorities the truth. With the help of his colleague and friend Dr Bonnefoy, a child psychiatrist, and the social worker Mr Kiku, Antonio tries to make Feliciano heal both physically and mentally, in order to accept the separation that awaits. For so, they  suceed in keeping him in security in the hospital for the time being, and Feli seems really happy with not being home. Besides, he has many friends here, and strange ones : - His besty being Feliks (Dr Laurinaitis's patient in the Intensive care unit ), a 9 year old blond boy with muscular deficiency disease that can no longer walk and have respiratory issues but still is cheerfull and a sassy boy - Heracles (Dr Bonnefoy's patient), a 13 year-old suicidal boy addicted to benzodiazepines that want to stay  heavily sedated all the time, to "sleep forever" in order to escape from his nightmares of past trauma; - Arthur (also Dr Bonnefoy's patient), a 16 year-old with atypic and resistant schizophrenia. But the weirdest probably being Matthew, a litteral ghost that only children and Arthur can see, who died in a car accident and who watchs since then over his brother Alfred who survived but had been since in a coma, for now 3 years. All wounded and mentally scarred children, that Feli reunited thanks to a power he seems to have, and that is transporting himself and his friend when they sleep to the world of "Hetalia", where they are countries, alongside people inspired from the doctors and other loved ones. Is this world real? Well, for Italy, Poland, Greece and Canada, It would be quite coincidential that they have the same dream and meet themselves in it! Arthur couldn't follow them, as he was unfortunately too old, but also probably because his medication makes him doubt his sanity and faith in the hallucinations he sees.... But one day, the connection seems to go wild and the 2 worlds, linked by Feliciano, threaten to collapse on each other...

The scene in the pic: Francis would often visit Feliciano to talk with him, and try to make him understand the situation can't go on and that he's in danger. The boy, able to keep a cheerful face most of the time, would retract in his shell and thus, he didn't made much progress until now, on this matter though. However, the fatherly psychiatrist has access to the imaginary world of the boy and is intrigued by it : A world where Feliciano is a country, has many brothers,  where there is a man looking like him being his big brother France, and where Feliks follows him so he can move again and jump on his feet and play along with "Lithuania". There's also that "Prussia" and "Germany", which he noticed are the copy of Gilbert Beilschmidt, a friend of his that befriended Feliciano thanks to his German Sheperd named Ludwig. Yes, a dog. That's how Francis came to the conclusion that in the world of his, Feli would took every person he likes, give them a country name, and make them part of his adventures. One thing though : since the boy started to "travel" in his world ( after his 3rd time at the hospital he remembered), he seems to have matured a lot, to know the history much more than him although he has skipped school a lot of time and to have improved incredibly at drawing for his age. A good development if it wasn't making him escape reality more and more and giving him the idea to make a lot of siestas. Worst, this repercuting on another of his patient, Heracles. So, he's having a serious conversation with Feli, and trying to separate him little by little from this imaginary world, like asking him why his mother doesn't seem to appear in it but the boy immediatly averts his gaze and stay silent, telling him he's sleepy. A fail, once again...But he doesn't lose hope.

[mybrainbutonpaper]

There He Was Again

Chapter 4

—finally finished this, sorry it took awhile, school started and it has been taking up most of my time. My friend edited it a bit so I hope you like it.

— summary

Lovino was having some suspicion of his husband Antonio because he was acting strange, but when he does figure what has been going on behind closed doors he decides to run to Germany and to live with his brother. Though he was expecting to just stay there and sulk, he ended up finding someone new who he didn’t expect to fall in love with.

—————————————————————————

Coming by friends sounds like an overall easy task, but continuous contemplation of approaching Gilbert with the whole “friend” thing, it’s... quite strenuous and tiring. Often you don’t think about pushing yourself to make friends abruptly. Friends Usually come by without a second thought. However anxiety made its way with Lovino, and it drove him up the wall. Subsequently sitting up in bed, He determined to look to the internet for refutable advice to rid himself of these anxieties. He jumped from his bed, grabbed his phone from atop his dresser, and began to do some research.

The morning came and Lovino still doesn’t feel prepared, he still is going to use the websites' advice: “Highlight a similarity”—so common interests... let’s try that.

He quickly got his clothes on and slowly tiptoed out of his room. Instantly he heard Ludwig and Gilbert’s loud conversation (they weren’t exactly quiet) and Feliciano’s humming. Lovino tried to eavesdrop. But they were speaking in German, and Lovino’s German wasn't all that great. He still had a hard time understanding them. After failing to eavesdrop, he began to slowly walk into the kitchen, taking in the fragrance of his brother's home cooked breakfast.

Feeling slightly nervous, Lovino looks through the room: Gilbert and Ludwig talking and drinking coffee at the table and Feliciano making food at the kitchen counter. He slowly inched his way to his brother, hoping Gilbert or Ludwig won’t notice him.

“Guten Morgen!” Gilbert greeted and Ludwig continued to sip his coffee, kinda tensing up.

Lovino suspiciously looked at them and replied with a simple hum and continued his way to the kitchen. Lovino was nervous. If he said something, he would’ve lashed out like he usually does when he’s nervous, but Lovino still wants this guy to like him. This caught Ludwig's attention, and Lovino noticed, he noticed by his stupid surprised face. Lovino wasn’t a very nice person in general, he always gave a complaint about something when walking into any room but Lovino didn’t want to annoy the albino German.

Lovino goes into the kitchen, greeting his brother as he grabs himself some coffee, “Hey brother, there’s no work today.” Feliciano informed him as he made breakfast.

“What, why?” Lovino asks, “Are these germans having a holiday or something?”

“No, me and Ludwig are going to move somethings around the restaurant today, we’re also going to paint the walls a different color.” Feliciano chirped, “it’s been quite some time since we last changed the restaurant a bit!”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever.” Lovino scoffed, “Geez, I don’t understand why you have to change it around, looks alright.”

“Well, it’s nice to change things up a bit!” Feliciano chirped as he finished breakfast, “Can you help me?” Feliciano asks as he struggles to pick up the plates.

Lovino picks up the two plates and heads over to the dining area but before he entered Feliciano grabbed his upper arm, pulled Lovino in and whispered into his ear, “I also wanted to give you a day off to get to know Gilbert.”

“What...?!” Lovino exclaims.

“Breakfast is done!” Feliciano announces as he sets the plates on the table.

“Awesome! I’m starving!” Gilbert grinned as he reached for the plate. Gilbert took a quick bite and groaned, “This is amazing! I forgot how amazing your food is!”

“Grazie.” Feliciano thanked.

As Gilbert was devouring his plate Lovino was thinking of similar topics to talk about, he then remembered about the website— Highlight similarity. So he has to figure out a way to say and ask about his interest, I guess talk about something then he’ll lead to it.

Think of something quick, “Um, Gilbert, I heard you were going around Europe, do you travel for work?” Lovino asked, his face warming up.

Gilbert hummed in response, he quickly swallowed his food and replied, “you could say.”

Ludwig then answers, “Gilbert is an author, his stories take place in some parts in Europe so he goes there to get a full idea of the place.”

“I’m writing about History you could say but I add a little bit of my awesomeness.” Gilbert grins.

“So like a Speculative Fiction?” Lovino asks.

“yup,” Gilbert confirms as he continues to eat his food, not giving Lovino his full attention which was kind of irritating him.

“What about you? What do you do besides working at Vargas’s?” Gilbert asks.

Lovino was a little hesitant on sharing what he does for a living but if he wanted to get to know this guy then he has to tell him something about himself too, it’s only fair, “I don’t really have a Job yet, still in college.” Lovino replied as he started playing with the food, “To pay for the essentials I just get a part-time job.”

“Oh, but a part-time job isn’t really enough to get yourself a crib.” Gilbert pointed out, “I’m guessing that didn’t work out for ya, huh? Probably the reason why you're huddling up with your brother, right?” instantly the atmosphere became tense.

It became quite silent for a split second, everyone in the room except for Gilbert understood lovino’s situation and was probably thinking that this might’ve upset him but to be honest, he wasn't wrong. Lovino doesn’t have a sustainable job, he hasn’t had any type of job for the past couple of years until he moved in with Antonio. Lovino stayed there while he focused and got through college, but sense Lovino is no longer living with him and living with his brother Lovino decided that he might as well work instead of just focusing on class, hoping that he might be able to save up enough money to get himself a cheap and affordable place.

“I was living with someone before but some things happened which caused me to move out so I decided to live with my brother.” Lovino informed.

Gilbert’s grin widened, completely ignoring the tense air,”Let me guess, he got into a relationship.” okay, now that hurt, “I get it! One time I was rooming with this one friend of mine. The house was really nice, it had a good amount of rooms and lots of space for the awesome me but I ended up being kicked out because she started kissing up to this one prick.”

“Wha… No!” Lovino corrected, “It was nothing like that! Don’t assume things, it’ll only make you more stupider than you are now. And the person probably kicked you out because you were being too god damn loud.” Lovino felt a little regret after he said that.

“No way, it was all because of that prick!” Gilbert argues.

“Actually, you're half right.” Ludwig confirms, “She kicked him out because he was being too loud and annoying, apparently he kept teasing Roderich.”

Gilbert then bickered, “well the prick needed to be teased, he basically asked for it.”

“What did Roderich do? He’s a nice guy.” Feliciano asked as he picks up the empty plate in front of Gilbert, “He gives us nice things for our anniversaries and he makes really good cake.”

“He’s a stingy little prick. The guys loaded but he doesn’t give me any fancy stuff. And we’re cousins!” Gilbert pouted.

“I wouldn’t if I were him,” restraint was gone, “You're loud and an asshole, I mean, why would anyone get anything for you.” Lovino insulted, forget about being friends with this guy, this guys an absolute ass hat.

“Geez, I don’t understand why Feliciano suggested you in the first place! Good advice my ass.” Lovino grumbled as he looked at Feliciano who just pouted.

“I’m going to the Living room.” Felicinao announces as he leaves the room and Ludwig follows after him.

Gilbert’s face changed, “Wait, wait--feliciano suggested me?” Gilbert spoke with great disbelief, his eyes shifting to the door where Feliciano exited.

Gilbert’s posture changes entirely, “I mean--of course! Don’t lose faith, I’m awesome.” he boasts with a wide grin. Eyes shifting to the side, Gilbert takes a sip of his morning coffee to gain his delighted composure, “Well, here’s some good advice…”

“Nah, I don’t want to hear any of it. ” Lovino interrupts as he gets up from his chair, “If you already got yourself kicked out, why should I take any advice from you?”

“Because Lovino, people are flawed! And I’m a person who loves my mistakes! I take each and everyone with of pride, and so should you. It makes you feel better and it gets you out of your room.” Gilbert’s grin snakes across his face, and his hand to the bottom of his chin, folded together.

“Whatever, Frosty the fucking snowman.” Lovino snorts, as he starts storming to the front door.

“Hey, where are you going?” Gilbert asks.

“I’m going for a walk!” Lovino yells before he slams the door.

Lovino starts making his way to the park thinking about how the heck Feliciano saw Gilbert as a good and potential friend for him. He was an idiot for actually considering the idea.

“Learning from my mistakes,” Lovino snorts,``Like I need you of all people to remind me.”

Previous chapter

-So I finished, the next chapter won’t be for a while because of my class. I would like some good and honest feedback but just reading it is good too. I hope you enjoyed the story.

[telltalia]

wuɳɗɛʀรcɦöɳ PT3

Merry Christmas to those who celebrate! Heres the last part of my 2017 Christmas fic! I realized while rereading this that Germany was so so so out of character. Like, it’s bad, but I also still enjoy this fic, even though some parts don’t make logical sense anymore.

Word Count: 3,775

You don't remember the last time you've had such a comfortable night's sleep. When you awoke in the morning, it was still dark in the room, and you were still in Ludwig's clothes, covered in a warm quilt. The one thing you noticed that was different, was that Ludwig was gone. You were no longer laying on his warm, sturdy chest. His arms were no longer wrapped protectively around you.

You sat up in a tired daze, looking around. It was still dark, but a slight sliver of golden sunlight was peeking through the dark curtains. So it was already mid-day, you guessed, it was only the blackout curtains that made it appear to be dark. The only light inside the house was of the small, colorful lights on the Christmas tree.

In the dim light, you saw Ludwig on the floor, mumbling in German, and surrounded by wrapping paper, scissors and tape.

"What are you doing?" You asked groggily. Ludwig jumped at your voice and quickly shoved an item behind his back.

"(Y/N)! You're awake!" he blushed and fidgeted softly, like a child who had gotten caught being naughty. “I was wrapping your... gifts.”

“My gifts? Ludwig, I thought we weren’t going to buy each other anything. And ‘Gifts’? Plural?” You blushed. How could he do this? As much as you appreciated it, you only bought him one thing- a plate, for God’s sake! “Luddy, all I bought you was a plate!”

“It’s alright, really.” he gave you the tiniest glimmer of a smile. It was the largest you’ve seen him smile since you got here, but instead of being happy, it was more of him trying to be reassuring than anything. You mentally made it a goal to see him full out smile before you go home. As you were thinking, Ludwig stood and walked into the kitchen, arriving a few moments later with a steaming mug. “I made some Glühwein. You know, that drink you had last night.” you smiled, grateful for the warmth that surrounded your hands when you took the mug from him.

‘Thank you.” you took a sip, savoring the spicy, fruity, flavor. You hummed in pleasure. “You made this? It’s so good!” Ludwig blushed modestly and scratched his neck.

“Danke. I made it just for you...” you failed to notice how Ludwig’s face paled and his eyes widened dramatically after that sentence. You blushed and almost choked on your drink, setting it down on a side table. Before you could respond to his confession, he continued. “Do you want to wake up Gilbert and (S/N) now so we can open presents before you leave?” You jumped up in excitement like a child and tripped over your own feet. “Scheiße! (Y/N)!” Ludwig jumped forwards and grabbed you before you could hit the ground. “Are you okay?” In a lovestruck daze, you stared up into his pale blue eyes, noticing the obvious worry in them. You noticed how they softened while staring into yours.

"Yo, losers! It's that awesome time! Presents!!"

"Merry Christmas!" Your sister and Gilbert burst into the room, the dogs following them. The dogs seemingly always showed up with them. Quickly steadying you, Ludwig let go, as to not cause suspicion. Gilbert and your sister sat down in front of the tree, grabbing and shaking the presents as if the two were still children.

"Gilbert! Don't do that!" Ludwig hit his brother over the head.

"Jeez, West. You're such a meany." He snickered and scooted over closer to (S/N). "Don't ruin Christmas."

"I'm not..." he sighed and cut himself off. "Nevermind. (Y/N), do you want your presents now?" You blushed, still not recovered from earlier, and sat down on the couch. Before you could respond, Gilbert began his teasing again.

"Kesese! You bought her something?! Oohlala!"

"Bruder!" Before Ludwig could say any more, you nudged him with your foot from where you sat on the couch. He looked up and his glare softened into a gentle almost-smile. He sat up on the sofa with you and handed you the first small package. Giving him a small thankful smile, you tore the wrapping paper off.

Inside was a small, blue mug with the words München Christkindlmarkt in beautiful white letters. It had intricate, hand-painted designs, and you noticed it as the mug that you were drinking Glühwein from the day before. Inside the cup was a small piece of paper with handwritten words.

"Its a recipe. So you can make Glühwein whenever you want to."

"Oh, Lud. It's so pretty." You leaned over and wrapped your arms around him in a tight embrace. "Thank you!"

"I-It was nothing." Really." He handed you the second package gently. "Open the next." You felt his eyes on you opened them, and you blushed brightly as his hand lingered on yours for a second, before he quickly pulled away. Inside this package, there was a small silk handkerchief, for decorative purpose only, you supposed. In fancy lettering on the front, it said Frohe Weihnachten.

"Oh, Lud-" As you unfolded it, you felt a few small objects fall into your hand. Little, handcrafted, wooden stars in beautiful colors.

"Just little things you can hang up in your home around Christmas time." Ludwig blushed a bit and continued quieter. "So you don't forget about your time here." Your heart almost broke at the sight before you. Ludwig had a dark blush in his face, and the look in his eyes was obviously heartbroken, although he also looked bashful, giving him an innocent look. His blonde head was hung low, and his sharp blue eyes were averted. You knew both Gilbert and your sister were watching, but it didn't stop your next sentence.

"Ludwig, I could never forget this place. It's beautiful." Ludwig's eyes flashed with hope for a second, but he ran a hand through his hair and reached for the next gift.

"Here, it's the last one." He handed you the smallest, but best-wrapped gift. It was a very small box, wrapped in a smooth golden paper, and with the tiniest bow.

"I almost don't want to open it. It's so pretty like this." You smiled at him shyly. "Danke-"

"Oooopeeeen iiiit." You looked over, pulled out of the trance, and saw Gilbert with his hands cupped to his mouth. He and (S/N) looked like they were watching a movie, and this was a significantly dramatic scene.

"Mind your own business!" Ludwig growled, and Gilbert went back to talking with (S/N). You carefully pulled the paper off and opened the small box. You gasped lightly when you saw what was inside.

On a delicate gold chain along with 3 tiny beads- one black, one red, one gold- sat a charm the shape of Germany, just larger than your thumb. In the center of the charm was a small cutout of a heart.

"So a piece of Germany will always be with you." You heard Ludwig whisper. For some reason, that really got to you. You were leaving today, and you weren't coming back. You'd never see Ludwig again. You felt the tears well up in your eyes, and you quickly stood and ran to your bedroom, still holding the necklace. You sat on the edge of your bed, set your face in your hands. You tried your best to keep the tears from falling, but you couldn’t. You were leaving. You were never going to see Ludwig again, except in the background of pictures your sister sends. Oh, if only you could stay forever. But you couldn’t quit your job! And you could barely speak a lick of German. Suddenly you heard the door open, and you froze, expecting Ludwig.

“What was that?” You looked up to see not Ludwig, but your sister standing in the doorway. She laughed before looking down at you. “Holy shit, are you crying?” She completely switched from teasing to concerned. “What happened?”

“I-” Your voice cracked, and you stopped talking, choking back a small sob. Your sister sat down next to you and rubbed your back gently.

“Take your time.” You took a deep breath.

“I need to leave. Like, now.”

“What? Why? Is it because of Ludwig?” Then, she looked at you with that look that older siblings get sometimes. The ‘I know’ look.

“Okay, yes. I really like him.” Your sister laughed. “What’s so funny?”

“Why are you crying then? Because you have to leave? You don’t.” She stood from the bed and laughed. “(Y/N), I love ya, but you’re an idiot. An idiot in love.” You blushed as she left your room. You gathered your bags together and got dressed for the airport, doing your hair as simple as possible. You heard a whining noise outside your bedroom door and went to open it, immediately tackled to the ground by the dogs. The golden retriever began to lick your salty, tear-stained cheeks. Despite the sadness inside you, you still managed to laugh.

“Aster! Stop it!” You stood up and took this time to check what time it was. 12:30. And your flight was at 2:30. And take away the hour it took to get to the airport. That gave you one hour. One hour to pack. One hour to come to peace with the fact that you were leaving. One hour to say goodbye to Ludwig. You jumped when you heard a soft knock on your open door.

“(Y/N)?” It was Ludwig. “Do you want to eat something or have some more Glühwein before you go?” Sucking up all your courage, you left your room and followed him to the kitchen.

“I suppose it’s only logical to eat since I’m not going to have anything but airline food the rest of the day.” Sitting down at the table across from him and digging into your food, you tried your best to avoid eye contact with him. Those eyes could pull you into a trance, and that’s the last thing you need right now. But that wasn’t the only problem.

This is the last time you’re going to eat at this table. The last time you get to share a meal with him.

You couldn’t push the thoughts out of your head.

“I’m sorry.” Ludwig’s low voice pulled you back to reality. You looked up, immediately making eye contact with those crystal eyes and scolded yourself in your head. Damn it all, (Y/N)! You had one job!

“Sorry for what?”

“Whatever I did that upset you.” Ludwig looked like a kicked puppy. Whatever he thought he did to you really seemed to be bugging him. “Was it the necklace? After I gave it to you, you just ran off. Is something wrong with it?”

“No! It’s nothing, I promise. The necklace is beautiful.” You reached down to where it still hung around your neck, then you continued eating silently. You felt his eyes still on you but were still determined to ignore it.

“If you need to tell me something, you can. Please don’t feel uncomfortable talking to me.” You blushed, and your brain ceased to function. Why was he saying all these things? Did he know something? Clenching your fist under the table, you blatantly lied.

“I don’t feel uncomfortable.” Ludwig didn’t seem to believe you, but you continued to eat in silence. You heard Ludwig sigh and stand up from the table.

“Can I take your bags out to the car?”

“Go ahead.” You felt so terrible ignoring Ludwig, considering you had been so close yesterday, but you just wanted to make this easier on both of you. That didn’t make it selfish, right? You were doing this for Ludwig too. Unless he didn’t care if you left or stayed. God, what if he didn’t care? Of course, no one could decide they like someone in two days! It takes time. You set your silverware down in deep thought. I should’ve known it’s not worth it. I should have just stayed with (S/N) instead of hanging out with Ludwig. I could’ve saved all this trouble...

“Are you ready to go?” Ludwig interrupted your inner monologue.

“Now?” You glanced at the clock. “Oh! Yeah, let’s go.” You gave your room one last look, making sure you didn’t forget anything- your phone, charger, a hairbrush- and you grabbed the remaining bag and a coat. You walked slowly through the house as if wishing you’d miss your flight. As if wishing time would stop. Eventually, you were out the door, and you sat in the passenger side of Ludwig’s car.

This is the last time you’ll see this room. This is the last time you’ll see this house. In less than an hour, you’ll be gone.

The ride was silent for a very long time. You both sat silently, Ludwig driving and you watching the passing scenery outside. You felt so guilty about not talking to Ludwig. What if you really hurt him? Eventually, the silence became too much for Ludwig.

“(Y/N). Please talk to me. I know you’ve been ignoring me for a reason, and I want to know why.”

“I’m not-”

“Schwachsinn!” he cursed rather loudly. Then he calmed quickly, not wanting to scare you. “I know you're ignoring me. Please… please tell me why.” Ludwig looked so hurt, and you once again felt tears well up in your eyes.

“I'm so sorry, Ludwig…” Your voice cracked in the middle of the sentence, and you covered your mouth and looked out the window. “I’m sorry. It's just, you know, I'm leaving today and I didn't want to…” You trailed off.

“You didn't want to become attached to me...Is that it?” you hesitated but nodded slowly.

“I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to worry you.” Ludwig was silent a moment, and then he continued.

“You know, you don't have to leave today. I could buy you a plane ticket for another day. It'll be way too busy today.”

“Ludwig, it's fine.” Ludwig pulled the car into the airport's parking lot.

“But if you don't want to leave…” He was parking now.

“I need to.” You looked over at Ludwig and got out of the car. You went to the trunk and grabbed your suitcase.

“At least let me carry your bags for you.”

“Alright.” You smiled at Ludwig and nodded. He gave off no emotion whatsoever. And then you began the long walk to the airport. You couldn’t process the fact that this was the last time you’d see Ludwig. It was as if your body was just refusing to believe the information. Hoping that maybe… maybe it wasn’t true. Maybe something would happen. But here you stood, next to Ludwig, right inside the airport, ready to board the plane. You hesitated. GO. STAY. GO STAY. There was a battle taking place inside you between your head and your heart. You wanted to stay with Ludwig, you really did! But how stupid would that be? Like a decision an impulsive teenager. Was there anything you could say to him that could spark a conversation and cause you to miss your flight? No…

“(Y/N), wait!” Before you could take another step, you felt a strong grip around your upper arm. “Wait!” Don’t go!”

“Ludwig..?” This was the first time you’ve seen the German so passionate about something. He looked so desperate, so needy, so… vulnerable.

“(Y/N), don’t get on that plane. Before you came here I didn’t really have any friends. Not who live around here, anyway. You’ve spent so much time with me, and I’m forever grateful for that. I’m not the person who says things like this, but sometimes you need to let your heart decide… I know it’s only been a few days, and in any other situation I wouldn't say this, but your sister already lives here and we somewhat know each other, so... I really like you. Bitte bleib hier bei mir." He took one look at your shocked expression and continued. “You can leave if you’re positive you want to. I won’t force you to stay.” he let go of your arm in a dejected manner. “I’m sorry for delaying you. Just don't forget me.” He turned away, expecting you to leave. You noticed how he wasn’t holding himself tall and strong like he normally does, but instead, his shoulders were hunched. He was walking away from you, but his words were still ringing in your head. Sometimes you need to let your heart decide. In a split second, you sprinted up behind him and wrapped your arms around his waist. He stiffened up instantly. “(Y-Y/N)?”

“Ludwig… did you mean all that?” you pulled away from him and he turned to face you. His face was bright red all the way to the tips of his ears.

“Of course I did.” He scratched the back of his neck, embarrassed.

“Even the part where you said you like me?” Ludwig’s face paled as if he forgot that he said that.

“E-even that part…” The two of you stood in silence for a moment, and for the first time all day, you allowed yourself to get lost in his cerulean blue orbs. How they were filled to the brim with unease. The way his crisp blonde hair was combed back away from his forehead, although a few hairs had fallen from the ranks, hanging above his eyes. The way his muscles were tensed in anxiety for your response.

“I like you too…”  

“Does that mean… you’re staying?” You nodded slowly and watched in joy as Ludwig’s lips curled up into a grin. A big, toothy, grin. In an agonizingly slow movement, he wrapped his arms around you gently and leaned down to bury his face in the crook of your neck. It was then that you felt the wet drops on your shoulder, and felt Ludwig’s shoulders tremble softly.

“Are you crying?”

“I’m... happy.” Of course, all sweet moments must come to an end, as Ludwig’s cellphone began ringing annoyingly. He pulled back quickly and dug the phone out of his pocket. “Hallo?” he listened for a mere two seconds and hung up with a sigh. “It was Gilbert. He asked if were, erm… getting it on yet.”

“So does he know about…?”

“Ja, and if you don’t mind, I don’t exactly want to go home yet. They’re only going to torment us.”

“Okay, but where are we going then?” Ludwig thought for a few moments, then it looked as if an idea struck him.

“Well, I have an idea, but it might be a while before we get there.”

“Can I know what is?”

“Neu-... actually, it’s a surprise. But, it might be 5 o’clock by the time we get there… are you alright with waiting that long?”

“Of course. As long as it’s with you.” As Ludwig smiled and carried your bags back to the car, you couldn’t help but wonder where he was taking you. Something so important that he was willing to drive five hours to get there. What could it be? As you sat in the car, Ludwig spoke up.

“I can’t believe you’re actually staying.”

“I can’t either.” Ludwig seemed a bit uncertain about what he was about to say.

“Are you sure you want to stay? You still have time to catch your plane-”

“I want to stay.” Ludwig smiled again, looking away to hide it, and drove the car out of the parking lot. “Remember what you said earlier? About letting your heart decide? That’s what I did. I let my heart decide. And it chose you”

“(Y/N)...” he trailed off. But you knew what he meant. That’s so sweet, or How cheesy. He continued to drive, and you looked out the window, watching the road signs fly past. “You might want to take a nap while we drive there. It’s almost two hours.”

“But I don’t want you to be lonely on the drive.” Despite how tired you still were because of jet lag, you really didn’t want Ludwig to be alone. “I don’t want to be a burden.”

“(Y/N), how many times do I have to tell you. You’re not a burden. I like having you around. Go to sleep." Smiling once more, you closed your eyes and failed to notice the sign reading Romantische Straße.

The light snow fluttered carelessly around the sky, and everything was enveloped in pitch darkness, except for a small beam of moonlight shining down in the center of an utterly romantic scene. In the midst of all the snow, a young girl twirled around, her jacket forgotten somewhere, her hair flowing free down her shoulders. The man's hair seemed even fairer than usual adorned with delicate crystals of snow, as he stepped into the light and lay his jacket over the woman's shoulders, pulling her in for a sweet kiss. Their lips molded perfectly onto each other, and it all seemed too perfect to be true. And it was.

(Y/N)...

(Y/N)...

"(Y/N)? Wake up now. We're here." Ludwig whispered. The sun was gone, but it didn't look like night time yet. Late evening, when the sky still has a tint of gray to it. Steady snow had begun to fall and was already piling in the grass beside the road. With a small groan, you let Ludwig pull you out of the car, and you looked around, expecting something extravagant.

"Where are we?" You whispered back to him, equally as soft. Ludwig took your hand and pulled you away from the car a bit. He swiftly pulled his coat off and lay it across your shoulders. You smiled thankfully up at him. Then, he stopped walking and pointed out to a blank mountain range.

"Look up there." You did. You strained your eyes, and soon you saw that it was not simply a blank mountain range. Perched upon one of the hills was an elegant, white castle. The mountain was not blank, but in fact, it was a canvas that the Gods had touched with a magic paintbrush. "Do you see it?"

"Yes... it's beautiful."

It may be schön, but you... du bist wunderschön." You smiled and huddled closer to Ludwig.

"Is that what you brought me here for? Just to say that?" Worry splashed across Ludwig's face.

"I thought of it on the way. Do you like it?"

"I love it." Ludwig smiled that beautiful toothy grin that you've only gotten to see twice, and wrapped his arms around you quietly, warming you with his body.

"Maybe we'll come back another day. I think you're getting cold,  ja? Let's go." He hurriedly rushed you to the car and got you comfortable. "Schlaf, mein Schatz. Schlaf..."

♡

Translations

Schlaf, mein Schatz- sleep, my treasure (pet name)

Romantische Straße- Romantic Street (its a scenic route in Germany)

Bitte bleib hier bei mir- please stay here with me

Schwachsinn- bullshit

schön- pretty

wunderschön- VERY pretty

[missmilkyroses]

Take This to Your Grave

This is my fanfiction for Prumano Secret Valentine 2020, for @damtoti !

@prumano-week

Content Warnings: Death, Blood, Violence, Suicide Mentions.

Love had always been forbidden in the mafia. “Love,” his grandfather would say. “Is for cowards. If a cold heart can be melted by a warm smile, your heart wasn’t cold enough to begin with.

“I love nobody. Not you, not Feliciano, your parents, nobody. I am married to the mafia,just like I expect you to be.”

And marry the mafia Lovino did. His entire life had been spent training him to take over as head of Purple-Wing, surrounded by rules and guns and the very-real threat of death. There was no time for relaxation or the chance to enjoy life, or at least there wasn’t until he met Gilbert Beilschmidt, a man who loosened the tight restrictions on Lovino’s life and set him free.

______________________________________________________________

Brigittenauer bridge, Vienna, Austria, 11th July 2018

Lovino walked on the side of the Brigittenauer bridge. It was an absolutely wonderful place, and he felt like relaxing and just being by himself and after pulling off a successful heist against “France” two days ago, he felt he should have the time to enjoy himself. And he was, until he saw a man sat atop of the railing, staring into the Danube river beneath him as if it held the answers to life itself. Lovino sighed. Now he’d have to help the man, or he’d feel guilty somehow, knowing that an innocent man had died whilst he was there. 

Lovino may have been a mafia man, but even he didn’t like to leave civilian casualties if he could help it. Sure, the family of the people he killed may be hurt, but that’s the fault of the people he assassinated.

Lovino sighed and sprinted over the bridge to the man he saw.

“Hey! You! What’s the matter with you?”

The man startled, and Lovino worried for a moment that he might fall off the bridge. ‘What’s it matter if he falls off?’ Lovino thought. ‘If he falls then that’s this problem sorted.’

The man turned around but stayed sat on the railing, looking nervously at Lovino.

“Nothing,” he mumbled. “I was just looking at the Danube. It’s very pretty.

Lovino scoffed.

“Yeah sure you were, so late at night. Why are you jumping off a bridge? That’s a coward’s way to go.”

The man looked at Lovino, offended.

“Excuse me. Sometimes the coward’s way is the only option. One of my best friends was murdered two days ago. My other best friend was arrested for a crime he didn’t commit and is currently facing the death penalty in America. I don’t know what happened to my brother, only he disappeared with an Italian some time back, and I haven’t seen him since.”

The man paused, tears welling up in his eyes. Lovino realised that the man’s eyes were red, an unusual colour for eyes.

“I,” Lovino hesitated. “You.., why are you telling me this?”

“Because when I die, none of this will matter. I’ll be dead, and you’ll take these secrets to your grave, won’t you? “Look,” Lovino sighed, fast getting irritated.

“I couldn’t care less about your life problems. Just know that life can get better.

“How? Everyone I love is either dead or fast approaching. What do you suggest I do? Adopt a new brother?”

“No,just. I’ll meet you here tomorrow, 9am. We’ll go to a cafe. I’ll try and help you through life’s problems. It won’t be easy, but we can try. If it fails, a gunshot through the head is the most effective way of ensuring no-one can save you.”

“Okay thanks,” the man trailed off, realising he didn’t know Lovino’s name.

“Lovino.It’s Lovino.”

“My name’s Gilbert. Nice to meet you.

The man cautiously stepped off the railing and walked in the opposite direction of Lovino. Lovino watched him until all that was left of the man was a silhouette, one that would forever haunt his memory.

Lovino turned and decided to head to the T.G Poker Inspiration, a 15 minute walk along the bridge, in an attempt to forget about the events that had just transpired.

___________________________________________________________

They met up weekly after that. Every Thursday afternoon, his official time off, they’d meet up in Gorizia, Italy and let Lovino enjoy pretending to be a completely normal young man, not one who’s kill count was probably in the twenties, despite only being 23.

Lovino learned a lot about the way normal people lived life, and for two hours every Thursday  he wasn’t South Italy, grandson of the famous mafia boss Rome, but Lovino Vargas, a 23-year-old who worked full time for his family business. 

Lovino quickly found himself angsting for Thursday afternoons. On days where he felt like the mafia pressures were going to kill him, both literally and figuratively,all he had to do was think of his Thursday’s with Gilbert and he’d feel relieved: knowing that if he could hold on for two more days, he could be with Gilbert.

Eventually once a week wasn’t enough. He wanted Gilbert. He needed Gilbert. He craved Gilbert. In addition to weekly meetings, they also sent letters to each other: They could be read and then securely destroyed, leaving no traces of the clandestine conversations. 

His heart fluttered when he looked at Gilbert. Hell, it fluttered when he thought of Gilbert. Just looking at the letters Gilbert sent, knowing they’d been touched by him, was enough to send him into a frenzy, filling him with all sorts of strange emotions.

It took him far too long to realise that the strange emotions he was feeling were called love, and that he was falling in love with Gilbert.

____________________________________________________________

Purple-Wing Headquarters,Sardinia,Italy

1st November 2019

“South Italy,” Rome called out to him ,” Come into my office now. I need to speak to you.”

Lovino nodded and  stepped into the office. You don’t disobey Grandfather Rome, no matter your opinions on the matter.

“Yes Grandfather,” he replied, moving to sit down in the seat closest to the door.

“Now, South Italy.” Rome began, locking the office and drawing the blinds. “You know how I was telling you about the man who ran off with Feliciano. Well his grandfather also works in the mafia business, or at least he used to. There is no use in killing the grandfather, but he has an older son.  His name is Gilbert Beilschmidt and you’re going to kill him.

Lovino paused,still in shock.  Gilbert’s brother was the man who ran away with Feliciano? But then, that meant Gilbert was one of them? No, Lovino thought. Gilbert’s not an uncommon name. He’s possibly talking about another Gilbert, right?

“Um, do you have an image of this Gilbert Beilschmidt, Grandfather?”

“Of course!” Rome laughed, pulling out a file labelled Beilschmidt Family.

“We’ve been keeping tabs on this family forever.

He opened the manila folder and flicked through the pages, not pausing until he opened up a profile. There was a picture of a man with blonde hair, and blue eyes.

“This is Ludwig Beilschmidt, the man who eloped with Feliciano. In Black Rose, he is known as “Germany”.”

Lovino mentally breathed a sigh of relief. That man looks nothing like Gilbert, he thought. That is, until the next page in the folder was turned.

There was a young man, looking away from the camera, but even then Lovino could tell it was Gilbert. The white hair, the dazzling scarlet eyes, there was no-one else it could be. Lovino was certain his grandfather had chosen the mission on purpose. He must’ve somehow known. Otherwise, they would’ve chosen to kill Ludwig, or at the very least the grandfather. He knew. Oh my god. Lovino mentally said a prayer.

“This,” his grandfather announced proudly, moving the folder closer to Lovino so that he could see Gilbert’s profile more clearly. “Is Gilbert Beilschmidt. He  aliases as “Prussia”, and,as I’ve already told you, is your target for the upcoming assassination.

“Grandfather, why must we kill Gilbert? Would it not be more effective to attack the grandfather? Or Germany himself?”

Rome looked at him quizzically.” Are you daring to question me, South Italy?”

“I,” Lovino bowed his head obediently. “Of course not Grandfather Rome. I am just interested in what your plans are for this mission, grandfather.”

“I’d hope so Lovino.” Rome’s eyes narrowed as he glared down at his eldest grandson. “If you must know, Gilbert Beilschmidt is a failure, for many reasons, which I am sure you do not know.  Do no question the issue, as

“Now, back to what this mission entails. You, firstly, will kill Gilbert Beilschmidt. Shoot him, poison him, I don’t care. As long as he ends up dead. Then, as Gilbert is his grandfather’s prime caretaker, we kidnap the grandfather and force Ludwig to trade us Feliciano. And,before you ask, when you kill Gilbert, mutilate the body to the point where it’s almost unrecognisable. We’re going to post it to Ludwig and show him what will happen to his grandfather when he refuses.”

Lovino was grateful that a poker face had been drilled into him from day one, otherwise his grandfather would surely know he had feelings for Gilbert. And he knew what would happen if he was caught breaking the rules.

“Of course Grandfather. When should I do it?”

“13th February 2020, there’s an abandoned factory Slovenia is keeping safe for us in Škofja Loka, Slovenia. Lure Gilbert there, then kill him. I’ll be arriving at 00:40 on the 14th to check if the mission has been done. If not, then…”

Lovino gulped as Rome glared harshly at him.

“This entire assignment rests on your shoulders. It’s up to you to get this started, then we can retrieve your brother. This will be the most important assignment you’ve been given, okay? Any mistakes will be the end of you.”

Lovino nodded and tried to discreetly wipe the sweat off that was beading on his brow. “I will do my hardest to ensure I succeed, Grandfather.

“Excellent. More information will be sent to you later.” Rome smirked, a move that went unnoticed by Lovino.

“Now get out of my sight, Lovino.”

Lovino hurried out the room, face turning red embarrassedly.  His grandfather was sure to suspect something, if he hadn’t already.

All he could do was think about how he was going to tell Gilbert this, and where his loyalties lay. When it came down to it, was he willing to risk his life for Gilbert? Lovino felt his heart sink when he realised the answer was a resounding yes. He wiped the sweat off his brow and decided to fly over to Zurich, as a change from Gorizia. His grandfather knew that he visited Gorizia weekly. As far as his grandfather was aware, Lovino had never stepped foot in Switzerland.

_________________________________________________________

 Capuchin Bridge, Slovenia. 13th February 2020

22:00 pm CET

Lovino nervously stood and waited for Gilbert. He was walking on a bridge in the dark, like he was when he first met Gilbert. “And this is going to be the last time you’re ever able to meet with Gilbert.” His inner voice piped up. “Isn’t this ironic?”. Lovino resolutely ignored the voice in his head and looked into his reflection in the Selška Sora.

After what seemed like an impossibly long time,Gilbert ran towards Lovino, enveloping him in a tight embrace. There was a large grin stretched out on his face.

“Lovi! It’s so great to see you! I’ve missed you! I haven’t since what, December I think? Happy belated new year!”

Gilbert leaned in to give Lovino a kiss, but stopped when he noticed Lovino hadn’t moved an inch,  he was stone cold like a statue.

“Lovino? Babe? What’s the matter with you? “I.. think it’d be in our best interests if we weren’t together anymore.” Lovino forced himself away from Gilbert’s loving hands, his warm breath and took a deep breath to steady his nervous limbs.

Gilbert’s face sunk as he gazed at Lovino, a look of pure horror on his face.

“You...you...why? What have I done wrong? Answer me! Answer me!” 

Lovino shrank back from Gilbert’s relentless pestering, glancing down at the Selška Sora and wishing it would just simply sweep him away. That would solve all his problems. Gilbert wouldn’t have to worry about being dumped and then murdered, he wouldn’t have to kill Gilbert, South Italy could be washed away along with all the mafia stresses…

He didn’t realise what he was doing until he felt Gilbert yank him away from the railing, causing him to fall backwards on top of Gilbert.

 Gilbert pushed Lovino and stood up, grabbing Lovino’s shoulders and forcing him upright.

“Gilly, you saved-”

“What the fuck is wrong with you?!” Gilbert hissed, sinking his fingers into Lovino’s shoulders and shaking him back and forth as hard as he could.

“I haven’t seen you in two months and the first you do is dump me, then attempt suicide by jumping off a fucking bridge? What the fuck kind of thought process is that, Lovino?”

“Gilly I’ve got problems-”

“You’ve got problems? YOU’VE GOT PROBLEMS? My grandfather died on Christmas Day. With his departure, everyone I loved was gone,except you, although we hadn’t talked since November. Isn’t suicide supposed to be the coward’s option?”

Gilbert laughed ,hysterically pushing Lovino back down. 

“There’s no use in running away from your problems. Sooner or later, they’ll manage to beat you in the race, and they’ll make you lose HARD.”

He bent over Lovino with a maniacal grin on his face. Sweat dripped off his forehead. 

Without warning, he suddenly bent over and began coughing, choking and choking as though he’d been starved of air.

Lovino instantly went to help Gilbert calm down, although he was confused. He couldn’t remember the last time Gilbert had had an attack this brutal.

“Gilbert calm down! Gilbert! Gilly!”

Lovino grabbed Gilbert and stared lovingly into his eyes, carefully combing his hands through Gilbert’s hair.

It took five long minutes to get Gilbert to calm down.

“I-Lovi, I,”  Gilbert stopped as he came to terms with the fact that he’d had another panic attack.

“I haven’t had a panic attack since last February.” Gilbert panted out, trying to control his breathing and letting the implications of this statement hang in the air.

“We started dating last February.” Lovino realised, guilt sinking in his stomach.“Hey, it’s alright Gilbert. There’s absolutely nothing to worry about. I’ve got some explaining to do, haven’t I?”

He continued to sit with Gilbert, alone on the bridge. Around them, rain began to slowly fall from the overcast clouds above them.

“Gilbert.”

“Hmm?” Gilbert had almost fallen asleep in his arms, feeling too tired after his attack to give a greater response to Lovino.

“The reason I wanted to break up with you is because I have to kill you.” Lovino let the words tumble out of his mouth in a flurry.

“What?” Gilbert sat upright, almost knocking Lovino over. “You have to kill me?”

“Yes.” There was no point in keeping it under wraps anymore. Gilbert had to know everything.

Lovino got to his feet and assisted Gilbert in getting to his feet

“I’ve got so much to tell you, so you’d better listen closely.”

They wandered off Capuchin Bridge and towards the arranged location of the murder. Lovino told Gilbert everything, about how he’d been hired to kill Gilbert because of his younger brother Ludwig’s decision to elope with Feliciano, and how his grandfather was supposed to be kidnapped and used as ransom to bargain back Feliciano.

“And the family business, it was the mafia. I’m so sorry Gilbert for keeping this all from you, I just thought that I could keep this under wraps.” Lovino choked back a sob as he stared at the empty factory, taunting him with what he was about to do.

Gilbert however, only nodded. “I knew you were in the mafia since you mentioned your little brother. You must mean North Italy.That makes you South Italy, right? Don’t sweat it, I knew I was going to be killed, I just didn’t expect it to be you.”

Lovino could only gape at Gilbert. “You knew?” A solitary tear fell down his face.

Gilbert frowned. “Don’t worry about that. My family is involved in the mafia business too, are they not? Now let’s go inside already, the death knell’s been waiting for ages to finally make itself useful.

__________________________________________________________ Location Unknown, Škofja Loka,Slovenia.  13th February 2020

23:50 pm

They entered the first room they saw inside the factory. It was large and dusty, with an unusual complex wire system running on the walls. A large part of the ceiling was gone, exposing the pair to the rain outside, which was quickly increasing in intensity.

“So, you have to..” Gilbert let his words trail off.  “It’s really hit me you know, now I’m about to die I’m panicking, yet when I first heard about my assassination I was completely fine with it. It’s funny how that happens, isn’t it?”

“Yeah.” Lovino's voice was barely audible in the suffocating silence, shrouding the room with sorrow.

“I’ve got poison in my bag, shall I? Or would you prefer gunshot? Strangulation? I’ve got it all.”

“I don’t mind, just.” Gilbert laughed quietly. “ When we were meeting up,like we did most Thursdays,I didn’t think it was because you were my alleged murderer. I thought you just wanted to rekindle our relationship and go on another date.I mean, A derelict factory under suspicious management isn’t exactly a popular date option.”

The faint echoing of bells could be heard distantly, rattling in the quiet room. 

“Hey,” Gilbert pointed out. “It’s Valentine's Day. That means I have less than 35 minutes left alive. And you’ll still need to mutilate my body. Try not to damage it too much, will you?”

Lovino stared solemnly at his soon-to-be-dead boyfriend, electing not to say anything, but instead pushed Gilbert against the wall and locked them in a passionate embrace, tongues mingling as Gilbert melted into his lover’s arms for the last time.

Lovino pulled back, a string of saliva still keeping him connected. “Happy Valentine’s Day.”

He reached into his bag and probed  around for a heart-shaped box with a ribbon tied around it. “I have chocolates for you. And flowers. What was your favourite song again? Welcome to the Black Parade?”

Gilbert laughed mirthlessly. “You’ve got this all planned out.”

“I’m trying to make your final moments as peaceful as possible. Now, a gunshot is quickest but poisoning is the most peaceful. “

Unbeknownst to them, Janez  was watching them from a camera system he had planted in the room. He had cameras planted all over the factory. And an explosive system rigged to go off with just the flick of a switch. He frowned disgustedly as he saw Lovino showing compassion to Gilbert, kissing him like there was no tomorrow. And technically, there wasn’t one for either of them.

Janez swiftly made a hast to call Rome.

“Rome, my leader. This is Slovenia.I am calling you to inform you that your suspicions were indeed correct. South Italy has indeed been consorting with Prussia. They have just osculated,-that is to say, kissing- and South Italy is discussing how he plans to make Prussia enjoy his final moments alive. As if he’s worthy of such compassion.”

There was silence on Janez’s end as he waited for Rome to respond to his transmission.

“Slovenia. I appreciate your telling me. As for South Italy, well, you know the explosives? Set them off. I couldn’t give a damn if South Italy is killed, in fact it’ll be pleasing if he is killed, so I want a powerful explosion.I’ll be coming at 00:40,like I told South Italy. If  Prussia isn’t dead or dying, or at the least severely wounded, it will be your head. Literally. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes, my leader. I understand you.”

Rome didn’t respond and just hung up. Janez scanned his control panel for the correct switch to ensure that Prussia was going to get injured. Once he found the switch, he didn’t hesitate in flicking it upwards and watching on the screens in front of him as the ceiling suddenly caved in on Purple-Wing’s next victims.

_________

Lovino pulled his gun out of his bag and set his finger on the trigger but then stopped and looked up suddenly. 

“Hey, do you hear that rumbling noise?

Gilbert turned to face Lovino, fear evident in his eyes. “I don’t-”

That was all he got to say before a large portion of the room caved in on him,a large chunk of concrete wedging itself in Gilbert’s forehead.

Lovino had sprinted to the other end of the room, however he was cut off when a large steel beam fell on his right hand.  Terrified, he fired his gun, acting entirely on instinct. The bullet ricochet off the bulletproof glass in the window opposite Lovino and launched straight through Gilbert’s ears,in and out of his brain.

In the control room, Janez sent a swift message to Rome.

00:20 pm

My leader, the target has been taken out.

00:21

Excellent. Your service has been appreciated Slovenia.

Lovino dropped the gun and ran to be by his lovers side. He gently bent down so they were at the same level, and locked eyes with Gilbert.

“Gilly? You’re dying now,okay.?”  

He took hold of Gilbert’s left hand and started stroking in an attempt to comfort him.

“Lovino,” Gilbert choked out, blood spilling down his face. His hand was clasped in Lovino’s own hand, which was trembling. Lovino struggled to hold back tears, blurring his vision. Blurring his sight  of the last time he’d ever see his lover again.

“I love you so much, okay. Remember that, Lovino?”

“I will,” Lovino nodded. He hadn’t even noticed the tears were rolling down his face until Gilbert moved his other hand to wipe them away.

“Gilbert, I didn’t want you to have to die. But it had to be done, yeah? God we never should’ve started dating.”

“Its, it’s not your fault, Lovi. You were forced into it by your grandfather. I forgive you for everything you’ve done.” Gilbert’s voice was getting quieter and quieter, and his eyes were slowly losing light.

“Gilbert.” Lovino broke down, collapsing on Gilbert’s body.

“Goodbye Lovino.” Gilbert’s grip on Lovino’s hand went limp, and his chest began to still.

“No! Gilbert please I love you.Gilbert!”

 Lovino cried, even though he knew Gilbert couldn’t hear him.  Sitting up, he slowly began to cradle Gilbert’s corpse in his arms.

He spent the next five minutes crying, knelt down on the floor of the dark room.

Just as he began to pick himself up, Grandpa Rome walked in and placed a hand on Lovino’s shoulder.

“I know you really loved him, Lovino.” 

Lovino looked up to face his grandfather, a scowl slowly forming on his face.

“ Yes, I did, Grandfather. But there’s not a problem with that now, is there?”

Lovino looked at his grandfather, still scowling, but with fear hidden in his eyes.

Rome said nothing, only taking his hand off of Lovino’s shoulder and bending down- to tie his shoelaces, Lovino presumed.

“Grandfather? I know I did you wrong. But I’m ready to finish with the rest of my assignment-”

He was cut off by a bullet embedding itself in his throat. Shocked, he tripped over Gilbert’s corpse and fell backwards, his stomach being impaled by the same piece of shrapnel in Gilbert’s forehead. He quickly got up and tried to crawl forwards, only to be stopped by Rome harshly yanking him back onto the stone-cold floor. He felt his head crack open and a thin liquid slowly started to cascade down his forehead. His vision started to blur and the room started spinning. He was barely paying attention to the world or what his grandfather was saying, his focus taken up by the headache threatening to consume him.

“This has just proven to me that you’re not loyal anymore. I know, I know, you shot your boyfriend for me. That’s loyalty, right? Well really, if you were that obedient, you wouldn’t even have a boyfriend in the first place.”

 Rome gave Lovino a malicious smirk ,before lifting his combat boots up, the combat boots which had nails hammered into the soles.

The last thing Lovino saw were his grandfather's boots being driven into his face, whilst his grandfather laughed. 

“Goodbye, Lovino.”

 He couldn’t even feel the pain from the force of Rome’s boot before his world went dark and he stopped thinking.

The door slammed shut behind Rome as he walked out the door confidently.

“That’s Lovino done, a little earlier than expected, but he’s dead now, like I intended anyway. Next, who’s going to kill Feliciano? I was thinking it’s time for Ivan to do me a little favour ....”

________________

[schmergo]

Informal (and sorry, very long) review of ASSASSINS at Signature Theatre

ASSASSINS is famous for its provocative concept—telling the story of nine people who assassinated or attempted to assassinate US Presidents in a series of songs and vignettes—and it feels even more daring when staged only 15 minutes from the White House. But this musical isn’t a tasteless exercise in shock value for the sake of shock, nor is it a misguided attempt to portray assassins as ‘just misunderstood.’ These nine central figures are alternately pathetic, disturbing, funny, repulsive, charming, and eerie. Some are clearly delusional, others simply disillusioned. But together, they represent the dark side of the American Dream.

Americans are raised with a sense of exceptionalism, a belief that we deserve everything we want simply because we’re Americans. At some point, we realize that only a few people have the luck, money, skills, and connections to achieve their dreams. Most of us accept that it’s not really true that “anyone can become the President.” But some troubled people throughout the country’s history cling to a distorted corruption of this dream: anyone can kill a President.

That doesn’t mean we should agree with their horrifying choices. But it does let us examine what aspects of life in America make some people so desperate to be seen and remembered, by any means necessary. “Where’s my prize?” is the childish refrain these assassins sing over and over again as they wander through the grey purgatory they’ve been consigned to.

Historically, productions of ASSASSINS are set in a ghastly carnival where contestants are encouraged to ‘step right up’ and shoot a president! A wonderful community production at Dominion Stage created a masterpiece of vivid Americana in which an electric chair or hangman’s noose were reimagined as theme park rides. This production took the opposite route by setting the action in a grimy, industrialized, empty stage in which pieces of furniture like a bench, the steps to a gallows, or a sofa float on and off like ghosts. Through this strange empty world, assassins interact unbounded by time or space, cursed to constantly repeat their most famous actions and relive their frustrations. Garfield assassin Charles J. Guiteau instructs would-be Ford assassin Sara Jane Moore in the finer points of shooting. McKinley assassin Leon Czolgosz reprimands attempted Reagan assassin John Hinckley for carelessly breaking a bottle.

The only set piece that remains throughout the show is a weathered and ghostly replica of the Presidential box at Ford’s Theatre, plunked onto the stage as though fallen from the sky. Here, the brooding spectre of John Wilkes Booth sits and watches the show unfold—and yes, he recreates his famous jump from the box. He serves as a kind of ringleader to the assassins, weaving through crowds, advising that everyone try their hand at assassination as a cure for all of their ills—even chronic stomach pain. After all, he was the first to pull off the historic act. We even see him convincing Lee Harvey Oswald to change the course of history by bringing assassination into the age of television.

As Booth, there’s a whiff of the rock star about Vincent Kempski—fitting, because Booth was a celebrity and even heartthrob in his day even before shooting Abraham Lincoln. Most of the time, he seems at ease, in control, erudite—we might even be seduced by his words until he explodes in fits of rage and reminds us how twisted and monstrous his views really are. Kempski only occasionally unleashes the full power of his singing voice, and when he does, it feels like a punch in the gut.

One minor gripe with his performance, though not limited to Kempski’s portrayal alone: his Booth, like most I’ve seen, delivers his lines with a thick Southern drawl. Not only did that occasionally make it difficult to understand his words, I doubt the real John Wilkes Booth would have spoken with such a heavy accent. For one, although he supported the Confederacy, he was from Maryland. For another, his father was British. And most importantly, he was a professional stage actor before the era of microphones and would have been well-trained in diction. Still, his charisma was palpable throughout the show. The moment he set foot on stage, a chill ran down my spine: it really was like seeing a ghost.

Lawrence Redmond plays the disgruntled worker Leon Czolgozs with gravitas and stoic desperation. He is perhaps the most sympathetic—or pathetic—of the assassins, and he gives us a sense of the loss of human potential. As the crass Sam Byck, attempted assassin of Richard Nixon, Christopher Bloch is horribly funny, spouting commercial catchphrases and leaving professional advice to Leonard Bernstein on an audiotape recording.

Some of the most enjoyable scenes of the evening were those between the two attempted assassins of Gerald Ford, Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme (Rachel Zampelli) and Sara Jane Moore (Tracy Lynn Olivera). These are two deeply kooky women—a ditzy Manson groupie and a frumpy mom who’s been married five times and is endlessly losing items in her oversized bag. Together, they shoot at a bucket of fried chicken and bond over an unexpected shared acquaintance in Manson himself.

Zampelli may not be the childlike pixie we’d expect as Squeaky Fromme, but she totally inhabits the character of a lost soul, a flower child whose brains, if she ever had them, are long-since fried and warped. Her voice isn’t a high-pitched girlish squeak but has a distinctive creaky vocal fry to it that makes her sound utterly deranged. She’s so intense in her devotion to Manson that she ranks among the most unsettling characters on the stage. She also shares a strangely beautiful duet, “Unworthy of Your Love,” with sad sack John Hinckley (Evan Casey), a failed songwriter who’s obsessed with Jodie Foster.

As Sara Jane Moore, Olivera is absolutely hysterical in both senses of the word. A chatty, scatterbrained housewife, she seems to represent the mundane and trivial compared to Squeaky’s revolutionary furor— but she can also burst into tears or pull a gun on you at any second. Her utter lack of self-awareness and deadpan one-liners like “I couldn’t hit William Howard Taft if he was sitting on my lap” made her an audience favorite. Ms. Olivera has a special talent for making dialogue sound totally natural, as if everything she says is an ad-lib. I’ll jump at the chance to see any show she’s in because she makes every character completely her own.

But the performer who truly stole the show, and my other favorite local actor, is Bobby Smith, as the lifelong loser, Charles Guiteau. Guiteau is a comically tragic figure, a man who failed at everything he did and still retained the grandiose belief that his actions were divinely inspired. He was so consumed with his delusional belief that President Garfield would make him the Ambassador to France that he shot him. As Guiteau, Smith does a jaunty dance up and down the steps of the gallows before he is to be hanged, singing a refrain of “Look on the bright side!”

Guiteau is a man of extremes, euphoric and despondent at the drop of a hat. Smith, whose appeal as a performer often lies in his unassuming, everyman demeanor, gives amazing nuance to those abrupt transitions. We see real tears shining in his eyes beyond his too-wide smile, a tremble of the lip or shaking of the hands that betray his instability. He’s incredibly entertaining to watch every moment he’s onstage, yet you’re always simultaneously concerned for and creeped out by him. There’s something so obviously ‘not right’ with Guiteau. The last character to make me feel that way was Gollum.

Tying the whole story together is Sam Ludwig as the Balladeer, who serves as a cheery narrator for the show, delivering songs that span the gamut of American music styles. These are some of the most toe-tapping tunes in Sondheim’s catalog, contrasted sharply with the discordant numbers that run between them. Ludwig also inhabits a second role, which may come as a surprise (and isn’t listed in the program). He embodies the saccharine spirit of an American narrative that sees assassination attempts as isolated incidents rather than a symptom of a deeper illness. I occasionally found his piercing tenor voice a little grating to my ears, but it suited his character well—and I was sitting very close to the stage. An increasingly mangled rendition of ‘Hail To The Chief’ ties the musical numbers together.

This show runs almost two hours with no intermission. It’s so immersive that it gives you the curious sense of waking up from a vivid dream as you leave the theatre. You almost feel that the assassins linger behind you, reliving their crimes and failures in the abandoned theatre once you’ve gone home to bed.

Assassins plays through September 29. Don’t miss this show. You’ll find yourself laughing at the most unexpected lines and thinking about the most minor moments long after the curtain call.