#mingi deep dive begins

[storkmuffin]

Why are Mingi's legs 10kms long? And why don't they have him dance like this more often? Also how dare he?!? Plus the reason this was shot means all of them are probably angry, which makes this even hotter, somehow.

[i-like-loserz]

my sleepy boyfriend

synopsis: mingi is kind of obsessed with you. even (especially) when he's sleepy...

pairing: needy!mingi x reader

warnings: SMUT (18+), needy boyfriend!mingi, less subby -- more desperate, consensual somnophilia, man-handling, unprotected sex, slight nipple play, mating press!, breeding kink (as always), size kink (its mingi hello), creampie, not proof-read, i think it's cute!

word count: 1.6k

note: please read the warnings! if you don't like them, just don't read it lol

part I | masterlist

Mingi is adorably pathetic. 

He’s a perverted loverboy — ready to whine and beg for your touch at any moment. 

And he’s well aware that you’d never deny him. 

But how could you when he looks at you with his slick, bitten lips, fluffy hair, and an aching boner pressing desperately against his sweats?

It's even more delicious when he's tired, exhausted to the bone. Because even unconscious, his body is hungry for you. 

Without his apprehensive habits holding him back, Mingi is eager to take anything you can give him. Several nights you've woken to him getting off against your body, grinding himself against your thigh.

He makes such a mess against your pajamas and even after cumming several times, he’s begging to finish inside of you. 

In the beginning, he’d whisper frantic apologies, immediately retrieving a towel to clean you up with an embarrassed flush on his cheeks. 

But then he became more depraved. 

Waking up from a wet dream soon leads to him using your body to satiate the desperate need that’s been building inside of him all night. 

How could he resist you, though? Especially when you’ve expressed how much you like to wake up to him inside of you. 

Still, he feels like a pervert when he stares down at your helpless form as you sleep soundly next to him. That doesn’t stop him, of course.

He bites his bottom lip to keep himself quiet as his hands run down your body, making sure to feel every inch of your clothed skin. 

It’s a warmer night so you’re wearing a cute floral tank top that sticks perfectly to the shape of your body. The material is so thin that he can barely make out the pretty shape of your nipples. Mingi is sure that he’s never wanted to lick over your body more than now. 

His light touch lazily glides along the length of your chest before dipping into the loose elastic of your tank top. A deep, breathy groan rumbles in his chest as his hand splays over your bare tit, loving how perfectly it fits in his grasp. 

He gently squeezes at your flesh, massaging with an eager touch before moving downwards to lovingly rub circles around your rapidly hardening nub. He takes his time teasing and flicking your sensitive skin, enjoying the way you sigh prettily under him, unknowingly enjoying his attention.

He leans over you, admiring the perfect contours of your face. Every time he looks at you, he’s reminded of how obsessed he is with every one of your features.

Your beautiful eyes, your cute nose, your delicate lips, the whole shape of your face – features he wants to see reflected in his children. 

Mingi dips in closer, taking in the sweet scent of your soft skin before gently burying his face against your neck. He presses a few wet kisses against your heated skin before releasing his hold on you. He wants more.

You opted to sleep in some lace-trimmed cotton panties, sporting an innocent bow right in the middle. Your thighs are deliciously bare and it’s been tempting him terribly all night.

His large hand traces the edge of the waistband before moving to press delicately against your covered clit. His dark eyes dart to your face as you inhale sharply, your body shivering at the light caress. 

Mingi eagerly drinks in the way your brows cinch together from the sudden bout of pleasure. He relishes making you feel as needy for his touch as he is for yours. Even if it’s but a fraction of his desperation. 

He can barely hold himself back from diving in, but he wants to feel your pretty eyes on him. 

He needs you to touch him back. 

“Baby…” His hand drags slowly over your core to the side of your thigh, pulling it up to wrap around his waist. He holds you there, pressing his hips against yours to make you feel how desperately hard he is for you. “Wake up.”

He nudges your cheek gently with the tip of his nose. 

Your eyes flutter open at his sweet, pleading tone, arms automatically moving up to wrap over his neck. You blink away your sleep to see your blushing boyfriend over you, eagerly waiting for you to say something. 

“Mingi...” You sigh, pulling him closer to nuzzle against the warmth of his neck. He smells so good. Cozy and masculine. You just want to bury yourself against him and stay there forever.  

You let out a breathy moan as Mingi presses down harder against you -- suddenly feeling bold by the soft way you said his name.

You gently run your nails down the back of his head, pulling a sweet shudder from his pouty lips. You can feel him throbbing under his boxers

“Been so patient for me, haven't you?" You coo, dotting soft kisses all over his neck and jaw.

"Didn't wanna wake you..." He mumbles, "But it hurts." He flexes his hips to rub himself against you, already panting from the feeling of your warm body against him.

"My poor baby." You grind up against him, meeting his every thrust, already drenching your underwear from how badly you want him inside of you. "Don't worry I'll help you."

"Mmph...Can I just--" He pulls away for a moment and shoves a hand between your bodies, pushing your tank top over your tits before moving downwards, a starved look on his face as he stares down at the translucent fabric sticking against your pussy.

Mingi pulls away for a moment to reposition you, large hands pushing your legs until the top of your thighs press against your heaving chest.

A mating press. It's one of his favorite positions.

You're tighter, closer, and louder like this.

Without hesitation, he shoves your underwear to the side, revealing your dripping center. Even in the dark, he can see the glistening wetness spilling out of your entrance.

"Ming--!" You gasp at his forwardness.

"S-so...p-pretty." He uses one large hand to hold your legs as he quickly pulls himself out of his boxers, already desperately stroking himself at the sight under him.

Your hands fist against your pillow as he slides his cock over your wet entrance, pressing ever so slightly against your dripping hole. He groans when he feels you flutter against him, so ready to be filled by his cock.

"F-fuck, I don't think I can hold back--"

Your legs rest weakly over his shoulders as he presses close to you, thighs shaking as they're pressed between your hot torsos. His head is bowed down to watch himself press into you, not stopping until he's balls deep inside of you. 

You can tell by the way his body trembles that he's trying his hardest to be gentle -- but once he feels the tight heat of your pussy wrapped around him, he's lost to the heady pleasure that spreads throughout his body.

You flutter around him uncontrollably, eyes rolled to the back of your head at the intensity of being stretched so deliciously, so quickly. It's a familiar feeling that never ceases to have you seeing stars, no matter how often he fucks you.

“Uh-!” A sharp cry is forced out of your throat as his hips shakily pull away from you before immediately snapping back, shoving his cock impossibly deep inside of you.

It sets off a spark in your core as he continues to expertly fuck right against your g-spot, overwhelming your senses with blinding ecstasy.

"M'sorry," He pants against your ear, "I c-can't help it."

He starts to thrust shallowly, desperate, pressing himself flush against you with every fevered move, as if he can’t stand being even a centimeter away from you.

You can feel your wetness make a mess in between your bodies, painting over the back of your thighs and dripping onto the sheets.

"N-Needed this --" He chokes out, "Needed you."

"Use me." His cock throbs inside of you, heightening the way he prods against the deepest part of you. "Fuck your cum inside of me, Ming." His thrusts grow harsher, sloppier as his hands pin your body against the mattress, forcing you to take every inch of him.

"Y-yes, fuck-!"

His eyes are squeezed shut as he uses you to fuck himself dry. You reach your orgasm at the same time, clenching tightly around him with a whine as he trembles against you, spilling his hot cum inside of you until you're filled to the brim. 

You’re both panting, skin hot and sticky as you separate. The ecstasy fizzles out and is replaced by a drowsy haze. As you start to come back to reality, you feel the soreness blooming in your legs. You groan under Mingi, weakly pushing against him to get some relief. 

Waking up himself, he instantly releases his hold on you, worried eyes scanning over your face and body.

“You okay? Did I go too hard?” You stretch out your limbs with a soft groan and smile weakly up at him. 

"I'm amazing, baby." Your thighs rub together, feeling the tackiness from your combined slick, "A bit sticky though..."

His hair is a mess, sticking up in different directions, his body is all flushed and his lap is…a hot mess. You can’t help but stare up at him with adoration, enamored by how perfectly messy your boyfriend looks after fucking you into the bed. 

“You’re so cute, Mingi.”

“Huh?” He tilts his head like a confused little puppy.

You shake your head, refusing to elaborate.

Instead you lean back against the headboard and make grabby hands up at him, “Come here, baby, let’s cuddle.”

“...But we’re all sticky.”

“Mingi.”

“Ok.”

[yunholic-jongholic]

Dreambound Seduction [Part 1] | OT8 Ateez x Succubus!Reader

SUMMARY | You were sent to Earth with a mission—to observe and ensnare eight men, all untouched and inexperienced. Your task was to infiltrate their dreams, seduce them, and make them yours. Though this was your first time carrying out such a mission, failure wasn’t an option. You had to ensure they craved you, surrendering themselves unknowingly, so you could feed off their energy and sustain your own existence.

PAIRINGS | OT8 Virgin!Ateez x Fem!Reader

RATING | Mature, 18+, NSFW, MDNI!!!

CONTENT WARNINGS | NSFW, Smut, Explicit Content, Hell Setting, Bar Setting, Teasing, Alcohol Consumption, Sex-Dreaming? (Idk the term?), Unprotected Sex (Don't Do It!), Possessiveness, Oral Sex (Reader Giving), Somnophilia (Not entirely...), Cursing, Creampie, Cum-Eating, Praising, Succubus AU/Hell AU, (I might be missing some)

WORD COUNT | 3.1k

AUTHORS NOTE | This is the first chapter. I will be going down the list. Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung, Jongho. All Ateez members are Virgin in this story. Reader uses she/her pronouns and is female and has female body parts in this story. This chapter is Hongjoong focused.

TAG LIST | @mingisleftnipple

•

You were summoned to Earth by your higher authorities and given a mission—track down eight specific men, infiltrate their dreams, seduce them, and drain their souls.

Though this was your first time undertaking such a task, you had a carefully crafted plan and the confidence to make all eight fall at your feet, desperate for your touch.

Your mother, Lilith, had warned you about these men. They were all virgins, a close-knit group of friends, making them easy prey. With no experience with women, they wouldn’t suspect a thing—making this the perfect assignment for you.

"Y/N, you need to start feeding," Lilith reminded you, her voice laced with authority. "Every week, you must consume energy, or your power will weaken. And if you go too long without it… you could die. Which is something I refuse to let happen."

You nodded, taking in your mother’s words. The weight of your mission settled in, but deep down, you knew you were more than capable.

Your eyes flickered toward your first target—Hongjoong. Watching him from a distance, you studied his movements, his habits, the way he carried himself. This was your first real hunt, and despite your confidence, you knew you couldn’t just dive in recklessly.

No, you needed a plan. A strategy that would lure him in without suspicion. Something that would make him trust you, crave you, need you before he even realized what was happening.

A slow smirk curled at your lips.

It was time to begin.

Shifting into your human form, you descended onto Earth, instantly met by a biting cold breeze. Snowflakes drifted down around you, dusting the ground in a shimmering white blanket.

You exhaled sharply, watching your breath fog up in the icy air, and instinctively wrapped your arms around yourself, searching for something warmer to wear.

"Ugh, in Hell, we don’t have this freezing-ass weather!" you muttered under your breath, already loathing the chill that bit at your skin.

Closing your eyes, you focused, allowing the vision of your first target to take shape in your mind. His name was Hongjoong. You studied his features, his mannerisms, the way he carried himself. His personality intrigued you—calculated yet charismatic, confident yet holding something deeper beneath the surface.

You needed to learn more.

Following his trail, you discovered he was heading to a bar. A perfect setting. A place where temptation and desire flowed as freely as the drinks. If you played this right, he’d be the one inviting you home—unknowingly sealing his fate. With a smirk, you made your way there, ready to lure him in and feed off his essence.

Stepping into the bar, the dim lighting and low hum of music set the perfect atmosphere for your game. Your eyes immediately landed on Hongjoong—sitting alone, sipping his drink, lost in thought. Without hesitation, you made your way over, slipping onto the stool beside him, initially keeping to yourself.

You could feel his gaze flicker toward you, his curiosity already piqued. That was your cue. Turning slightly, you met his eyes with a soft, innocent smile, playing your role flawlessly.

"Hello," you greeted sweetly, letting your voice carry a gentle warmth.

Hongjoong’s lips curled into a small smile in return. That was a good sign—he was open, receptive.

You glanced down at the menu, humming thoughtfully before tilting your head toward him. “What do you usually order here? I need help with suggestions…” you asked, feigning uncertainty as you ran a finger along the menu’s pages.

It was such a simple question, yet it served its purpose. It gave him a reason to engage, to offer his opinion, to start falling into the web you were weaving.

As you and Hongjoong exchanged greetings and eased into conversation, the air between you grew more comfortable. He seemed intrigued, his attention locked on you, just as you intended.

But before you could push further, the bartender called out his name.

You watched as Hongjoong turned his head toward the bar, acknowledging the call before letting out a small sigh. “Looks like it’s my turn,” he murmured, setting down his drink.

Your curiosity piqued as he stood up, making his way toward the small stage in the corner of the bar. That’s when it clicked—he was a musician. You observed as he adjusted the mic, exchanging a few words with the bartender before grabbing a guitar.

So, that’s what he did here.

Leaning back in your seat, you smirked slightly. This was unexpected but not unwelcome. If anything, it only made things more interesting.

Watching him now, seeing the way he carried himself under the dim stage lights, you realized something—this was going to be even easier than you thought.

As Hongjoong played his set, your mind raced with possibilities. This was your first real mission, yet strangely, it felt like second nature—like you had done this before in another life. You weighed your options carefully, considering the best way to lead him deeper into your trap without raising suspicion.

Still, you played along perfectly, clapping and cheering after every song, making sure he knew your eyes were only on him. You didn’t have to fake your admiration—his talent was undeniable, and the way he lost himself in the music only made him more vulnerable to your influence.

Between songs, you caught his gaze, and every time, he smiled at you—small, bashful, but undeniably pleased by your attention.

Good. He was already seeking your approval.

Leaning forward slightly, you rested your chin on your hand, letting your expression soften, as if you were completely enamored.

By the end of his set, you knew—he was already yours. He just didn’t realize it yet.

Hongjoong ended and packed his items, it was almost midnight. You complimented his music as he sat back down beside you.

Hongjoong’s eyes met yours, his gaze lingering for just a moment longer than before. There was a certain softness in the way he looked at you, a quiet admiration that was steadily growing.

“You’re very beautiful, by the way…” he murmured, his voice carrying just enough sincerity to make it clear that he meant every word.

You let your lips curl into a soft, bashful smile, lowering your gaze slightly as if flustered. “Thank you,” you replied sweetly, pretending to be shy, though deep down, you were reveling in his attention.

Then, tilting your head, you let your voice dip into something a little softer, a little more inviting. “You’re handsome yourself…” you hummed, watching for his reaction.

His breath hitched slightly, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks. His reaction told you everything—you had him wrapped around your finger, and he didn’t even know it yet.

Hongjoong shifted in his seat before pulling himself up, rubbing the back of his neck as if trying to shake off an invisible weight. “I… should probably get going,” he muttered, though he sounded hesitant, almost reluctant to leave.

You sighed, pretending to be a little disappointed but not stopping him. “Of course,” you said softly, offering a small, understanding smile. Letting him walk away was part of the plan—you needed him to think he was in control when, in reality, he never had been.

Once he was out of sight, you slipped out of the bar and into a nearby alleyway. With a smirk, you allowed your human form to dissolve, your body shifting back into its true state. The cold air crackled around you as you summoned your power, teleporting yourself to a vantage point where you could watch him from the shadows.

You observed as Hongjoong moved through his nightly routine, oblivious to your presence. He changed into something more comfortable, stretched, and finally slid into bed, exhaustion settling over him.

That was your cue.

With a single thought, you willed yourself into his room, your form materializing in the darkness. The soft hum of energy surrounded you as you stood near his bedside, watching the steady rise and fall of his chest.

Now, the real game was about to begin.

Stepping closer to his bed, you reached out, your fingertips just barely grazing Hongjoong’s forehead. The moment your touch connected, a surge of energy flowed between you, allowing you to slip seamlessly into his subconscious.

Inside his dreams, you made sure there was nothing but you. You shaped the world around him, bending it to your will—your presence intoxicating, your touch lingering, your voice a soft whisper in the air. Every sensation, every emotion, was designed to pull him deeper into desire, to make him crave you in ways he wouldn’t understand once he woke.

You withdrew your hand, watching as his body reacted. His breath grew uneven, his fingers gripping at the sheets. His face flushed, his lips parting slightly as he shifted in his sleep, clearly lost in the fantasy you had crafted for him.

A wicked smirk curled at your lips.

It was working. He was already falling under your spell, already aching for something—someone—he believed was just a dream.

And when he woke up, that longing wouldn’t fade. If anything, it would only grow stronger.

He wouldn’t be able to escape you now.

You stood there, watching intently as Hongjoong writhed in his sleep, his breathing heavy and uneven. His body responded instinctively to the dream, his hands gripping the sheets, his lips parting ever so slightly as he shifted restlessly.

Curiosity flickered within you. What exactly was he seeing? How vividly had he fallen into your crafted fantasy? You had designed it to make him crave you, to consume his thoughts and body with need—but still, you wondered what details his own mind had filled in.

A mischievous smirk tugged at your lips.

That’s when you decided—it was time to wake him.

Moving fluidly, you crawled onto the bed, hovering just above him, your face mere inches from his. The warmth of his body radiated beneath you, his scent intoxicatingly close. You could hear his heart pounding, even in his sleep.

Slowly, you leaned in, your breath ghosting against his ear as you whispered, “Wake up, Hongjoong…”

His body tensed at the sound of your voice, his eyes fluttering open. And the moment his dazed gaze met yours, you knew—he was already yours. You saw his eyes were dark and much filled with lust and arousal.

"Y/N...?" He breathed out sitting up. You smirked seeing how ready he was to be taken.

Your hands ghosted over his chest as you hovered above him, watching the way his body shivered under your touch.

Leaning down, you brushed your lips against his, slow and teasing, savoring the way his breath hitched at the contact. Then, you pressed in deeper, kissing him softly at first, letting him drown in you, letting him fall completely into your trap.

Hongjoong’s hands instinctively found their way to your waist, his touch gentle yet filled with growing desire as your lips remained locked in a heated kiss.

"You taste so sweet…" he murmured breathlessly against your lips.

A smirk tugged at yours just as you felt him bite down on your bottom lip, the sensation only fueling the fire between you.

As the heat between you intensified, clothes were slowly discarded, fabric slipping away with every movement. Hongjoong’s grip tightened, pulling you closer with a desperate need that sent a shiver down your spine.

Straddling his lap, you felt the warmth of his body press against yours, his breath hot against your skin. His lips trailed down your neck, each kiss growing more fervent until his teeth grazed your flesh, biting down just enough to leave his mark.

There was something almost possessive in the way he held you, as if he couldn’t stand the thought of you slipping away.

"Shit… I can't take this. I need you now," Hongjoong growled, his voice thick with desperation as he pinned you beneath him.

His body hovered over yours, his gaze dark and filled with raw hunger. You looked up at him through half-lidded eyes, the corners of your lips curling into a knowing smirk.

Placing your hands softly against his chest, you traced slow, teasing circles over his skin, feeling the way his heart pounded beneath your fingertips.

"Then take me," you whispered, your voice smooth and inviting, luring him in even deeper.

Hongjoong immediately shoved himself deep into you, letting you slip out a lewd moan.

Hongjoong’s grip on you tightened as he pulled you closer, his body pressing firmly against yours. His breath was ragged, his movements desperate, as if he couldn’t hold back any longer.

A low groan rumbled from his chest as he pinned your wrists above your head, his fingers wrapping around them with firm possession. His eyes, dark with hunger, locked onto yours as he moved, his touch searing against your skin.

A moan escaped your lips, your body arching instinctively beneath him. You reveled in the sensation, in the way his control faltered against you. But he had yet to realize—he was never the one in control.

A sly smirk played at your lips as you flexed your strength, effortlessly slipping your wrists free from his grasp. Before he could react, your hands found their way to his shoulders, nails pressing into his skin, claiming him as yours.

Hongjoong let out a strained breath, his resolve wavering under your touch. His body trembled slightly, not from fear—but from the undeniable pull you had over him.

“You thought you were in charge?” you purred, your voice velvety smooth, laced with dominance.

His lips parted, his breath heavy, but he didn’t respond. He didn’t have to.

Both of you were breathless, bodies slick with sweat, the heat between you lingering in the air. You normally would have found the sensation uncomfortable, but Hongjoong seemed to revel in it—his fingers tracing over your damp skin, his eyes clouded with something between exhaustion and desire.

"You are so addictive…" he breathed out heavily, his chest rising and falling as he tried to steady himself, bucking his hips deep into you.

A smirk curled at your lips as you watched him, completely spent yet still craving you. His words only confirmed what you already knew—he was falling, deeper and deeper, completely wrapped around your finger.

Leaning in, you ghosted your lips over his ear, your voice a sultry whisper. “And you’ve only had a taste.” His breath hitched as you spoke.

His lips immediately interlocked with yours, you were now moaning against his lips. It wasn't long before you finally felt his cock twitch inside you, and you smirked knowing it was time. You continued moaning as his thrusts got sloppier and more frantic.

"Y/N!" He moaned as he finally came inside, you felt the warm liquid fill inside you.

Hongjoong barely managed to pull out before his body gave out, his strength drained as he collapsed onto the bed, chest heaving. His eyes fluttered shut for a moment, his body trembling slightly from exhaustion.

You, on the other hand, felt invigorated—alive. A rush of energy coursed through your veins, filling you with newfound power. This was what you craved, what you were created for.

Smirking, you sat up, tilting your head as you watched him struggle to catch his breath. His body was weak, vulnerable—just as you intended.

“Poor thing,” you cooed, running a hand down his damp chest. “You gave me exactly what I needed.”

Hongjoong tried to respond, but his words came out in a faint, breathless murmur. His body may have been spent, but his soul… oh, his soul was still so full of life, still ripe for the taking.

And you weren’t quite finished with him yet.

You needed more of him. You traced your fingers down his chest to his stomach and wrapped your fingers around his shaft tightly.

He only breathed out feeling extremely weak underneath your touch. You licked your lips as you started moved your head down and pressed your lips against his tip.

feeling the way his breath shuddered beneath your touch. His body was weak and drained.

"I know you got more in you..." you whispered finally taking his entire cock into your mouth bobbing your head up and down.

Hongjoong groaned softly, his head lolling to the side as he tried to gather himself. "I… I can't…" he breathed out, his voice barely above a whisper. His limbs felt heavy; his strength completely sapped. He couldn’t even lift himself from the bed.

You popped him out of your mouth and exhaled softly before speaking.

"Oh, love," you purred, leaning in just enough so he could feel the warmth of your breath. "You don't have to do anything… just let me take care of you." You whispered against him, before taking him back into your mouth.

It wasn't long before Hongjoong came again. This time you took it all in your mouth not leaving a single drop untouched.

You lifted your head, observing Hongjoong as his eyelids grew heavier, his body completely spent and on the verge of passing out. His breathing was slow, deep, and laced with exhaustion—the aftereffects of what you had taken from him.

A smirk curled at your lips as you leaned down one last time, brushing your fingers over his flushed cheek. “Thank you for tonight,” you whispered, your voice dripping with satisfaction.

Pressing a soft kiss against his cheek, you watched as he barely registered the touch before slipping into unconsciousness.

And with that, you pulled back, letting the shadows consume you once again. Your form faded into the darkness, leaving no trace of your presence behind—except for the lingering warmth on his skin and the aching hunger he’d feel the moment he woke up.

Hongjoong was only the first.

And you had seven more souls to claim.

As the shadows wrapped around you, you re-emerged in another secluded alleyway, your body shifting effortlessly back into your human form. The night air was still crisp, the world blissfully unaware of the power you had just absorbed.

Your lips curled into a satisfied smirk as you thought about what had just transpired. Hongjoong had been easier to claim than you expected—his desire, his vulnerability, his complete surrender. It only fueled your confidence for what was to come next.

Seonghwa.

Your next target.

But there was no need to rush. You had an entire week to plan, to set the perfect trap. Unlike Hongjoong, who had fallen easily under your spell, you suspected Seonghwa might require a different approach.

You thrived on the chase, on the careful manipulation that made them believe it was all their idea. And with Seonghwa, you already had a plan forming in your mind—one that would make his fall even sweeter.

With a final glance at the quiet city around you, you stepped forward, disappearing into the night once more. The game had only just begun.

•

A/N: Sorry, this was a rushed/short chapter! I am finalizing packing and my editor wanted this done by this morning so she could edit it before going home for spring break. :)

E/N: His chest/boobs are squishy, i forgot to add that trait when describing him. sorry HJ-stans.

[shocymer]

Redemption

"To him who's giving you a second chance, If there's heaven and hell, would you still risk everything for him?"

Pairing : mafia!Mingi × f!reader

Word counts : 6,1k

Contents and Warning : 18+ smut mdni! , mafia! AU, mention of illegal drugs, TW! mention of abused (undetailed), mention of rape (undetailed), attachment issue, suicide attempt (see the end notes), smoking cigs!mingi, action, gunfight, bloodshed, soft dom!mingi, oral (giving), size kink, slightly choking, unprotected sex, cumshot, creampie, husband!Mingi.

× This works is part of "The Brothers Series", and never meant to represent Mingi in any shape or form ×

Cold. Ache. Numb joints. Struggled to blink your eyes for a few times, you found yourself laying down in the dark alley for don’t even know how many hours have passed. Slowly moving your bruised frail hand to reach those chapped lips of yours. A familiar deep voice startled you. You saw those man through the corner of your eyes.

He's leaning against the alley wall next to you. Lighted his cigarette, before letting out a puff of smoke that slowly dissolve into thin air.

“Just like I told you before young lady. You should take my last offer.”

The tears rolled down your cheek. Recollecting your memories how he found you in the similar state a week before, except it isn’t worse as now. With the same bruises covered all over your body, due to escaping from your abused household, you could still save that perfect healthy legs of yours.

His words kept ringing inside of your head. As it’s like forced to get out of it. “Come with me, I can guarantee your safety.” Made you rethink over few times. Who else should I trust? People who only called themselves family constantly abusing you whenever they like just to venting out their anger issues. So far you could endure it all, but unfortunately not last night. In attempted to fight back, your legs get broken instead. Right in the middle of the night after all of those hell ride, you dragged your limping self to this dark alley with the only remaining strength.

The man shrugged his shoulder in impatience. Waiting for your answer who’s still silently cry while laying on the cold asphalt not moving an inches.

“So, how is it?” he’s asking your final decision.

You turn your head towards him, mouthing the words “Please take me.” Before the consciousness left you out.

He throw away the remaining cigarette that slipped between his fingers. Stepped on it with the tip of his sole then walk slowly towards your body. He crouched down while scanning your miserable state.

Shook his head as if he felt the pain after seeing you, then a deep sighed left from his mouth. “What a poor soul, you should’ve decided earlier.”

After he brushed off the dust on his black suit a little bit, he carried you into his arms. Proceed to walk step by step towards the end, greeted by his men who’s immediately open the car door for him. Then they drove away, taking you out of that terrible dark alley, leaving it’s coldness and your past behind.

⁠✧

“As expected you’re doing a good job.” His sweet voice echoed in your ears, quite the opposite of his intimidating looks.

It’s the same man who saved you a few years back, Song Mingi. He’d been diving in illegal activities since the beginning of his life, doing a lot of dirty works neatly. His men were scattered everywhere, all thanks to the connections he had built from a long time ago. And you think you’re also part of them.

You devoted your entire life for him as he’s your salvation. Obediently do everything he ordered without hesitation. Despite all of the sin he had done, never in any slightest he will put you in danger. To the point you’re getting bored of hearing his same message every time you’ll go on a mission.

“If the situation getting worse and you are in unfavorable state, find me. I’ll take care the rest of it.”

Sometimes you want to protest. Due to a lot of experiences of working under him for many years, you should be able to handle the worst possible thing. But he always forbids you, questioning your own safety and it ended with a long lecture. If so, what can you do? You can only sit with your head down waiting for him to finish his scolding. But deep down inside you’re happy about it.

“I just did what my master told me to do.” You responded in bliss everytime he praises you.

His fingertips run trough the strands of your hair, stroking it in delicate manner. “Good girl.” While looking into your eyes proudly. His smile is intoxicating. That’s become a strong reason for you to do his errands perfectly.

“This is for your hard work.” He put a white fancy paper bag on your bed. Then giving you few last caress on top of your head before leaving. Your eyes trailing his presence till it disappear behind the door.

When you peeked at the contents, it was a bundle of money and a jewelry box with small note on it.

Throw away the old one, I know it shredded into pieces.

- M.

You laughed at the note. How could you throw it away, that was the first gift he gave to you. You already guessed that the second you open the box, it’s an exact same bracelet that wrapped around your wrist for years, struggled to keep intact after it wrecked on your last two missions. Well, he’s pretty sweet for a criminal.

⁠✧

Different days, different matters. Beside the other trivial works, his biggest main source is the casino. What made him furious was someone trying to sabotage it by smuggling illegal drugs in. He already had one or two suspect names and somehow believed they’re located in a red light district area. Now, you’re into a heat arguments with him, hating every nonsense ideas that spurt out of your pretty lips.

“No. Definitely not.” He crossed his arms, sure thing your words flamed his anger even more.

“It’s much easier for me to blend in there. You’ll get their information faster.” You talk quietly afraid of his wrath. He always lets you join him wherever he goes. Except for one place, the red light district. Either he left you at his place or he never told you that he would go there.

Frustration overwhelmed him, ended up taking off his black spectacle. “I hate to say this sweetie, but I’m a man and you’re a woman. I can’t let you go there.”

“But the sex worker..” You averted your gaze from him, hesitant to continue. “are mostly women, I thought that I can disguise as one of them.”

He immediately got up from the chair and walked towards you. His thumb and index finger grabbed your chin, turning your face to him, made you looking straight into his eyes. “Listen young lady, it’s not worth of the risk. I-” he shook his head then release the grip from your chin.

“I lost my mother there. She was brutally ganged by multiple crazy bastard.” You could see his jaw tightened, his stare were full of resentment. “I was only six that time. Then, father brought me here.”

Ah, somehow you’re familiar with the father figure he told you about. You believed there’s 8 of them who’s adopted by the father. As you remember, they named themselves KQ Fellaz. They’re quite famous cartel where you used to live before. Even though their existence is still questionable, but at that time people keep talking about them. You don’t even know if Mingi was part of it. In fact, you think he’s the father itself due to him has saved you before.

Now you understand, why he strictly banned you from going there. He didn’t budge at all after spilling over his bitter past. Couldn't stand the look on his face, you bring your warm hand to cupped his cheek, caressing it slowly hoping it’ll calm him down. When you’re about to hug him, there’s a knock on the door. Both of you turned to the source of the sound in reflex.

“Come in!” Mingi yelled.

A tall male figure entered the room. He looked friendly, his arms were wide open as if he was waiting for Mingi into his arms. Mingi’s eyes instantly lit up, then he returned the hug like an old friend who hasn't seen each other for a long time.

“Oh Yunho, I thought you wouldn’t come.” Mingi said as he let go.

“I’ll definitely come. But I couldn’t promise you exactly when.” He patted mingi’s back.

They’re lost in conversation, talking about those casino problems which this Yunho guy believed all the ruckus caused by the same prominent figure that interrupted his own works too. Meanwhile, you’re busy looking at him from the corner of the room where you’re sitting. He's the complete opposite of Mingi. His facial features are delicate, his skin is white as milk, his hair is short with dark brown colors and well styled. What equates them is only their clothing, they consistently wear black suits, although Yunho is much more formal, meanwhile Mingi looks a little bit casual just like how people dealing in this kind of works are supposed to be look like.

There’s no intimidating aura emits from him. Made you wonder, what works he’s in with those kind of look? An entertainer? Or public figure? Who knows, maybe he’s one of informants that your master is looking for.

You stopped your thoughts when his eyes met with yours. He gave you a soft smile, before turned back to Mingi.

“You’re into adopting too ?”

“She is..” Mingi took a quick glance at you, a thin smile formed his lips, “..my tool. You know, I’m not as good as father.” He always takes time to praise no one know whether those figure exist whenever he mentioned its name. Using his index and middle fingers, he gestured you to come over him.

You obediently approached Mingi, his arm automatically wrap around your waist as asserting your ownership to the person he’s talking to. If he did this, it means Yunho is one of his important business partners. But wait, they’re mentioned those same “father” before. So..

Yunho only chuckled at the sight of you two. Then immediately diverted it, “Tell me what else do you need?” he asked.

“I really need their exact location. Ya know there’s dealers activity around the red light district, but I’m still doubting whether it’s legit their quarters or their operation zone only.” Mingi reached for the lighter in his pocket to light the cigarette that placed between his lips. Smoked on it once or twice.

“I sent my men to check it last week, but fuck there’s no words back till now.” He continued while looking far away out of the window.

Yunho could sense the annoyance radiating through his words. “And? What’s your next move?”

He grinned while imagining how he would ravage those wretch. “Wiped clean their base of course. I don’t like any pests slink in my lovely fields.”

Knowing what to do, Yunho promised him that he’ll be back for few days to dig more information. Before leaving, he put his hand on Mingi’s shoulder, leaning closer to talk beside him in low tone. “Remember, don’t act rashly.” When Mingi turned to him, he only gave him a faint smile, “Oh and keep an eye on your surrounding bud.” Then, he patted Mingi’s shoulder for few times and walk away out of the room, leaving you two alone.

⁠✧

“.. Yes sir, please go this way. We can talk about it in my office.” The old man that known as the manager guided Mingi as soon as he set his foot at the casino entrance.

You look around, the situation is still the same as the normal days. Crowded by people who enjoy betting their own wealth, plus the sound of slot machines were rumbling in the background as you go deep inside. The casino has been around for almost a decade. Even though it’s still quite new, but its reputation is well known to be able to compete with others. And of course Mingi despise any slightest intervention for the continuity of his business. So, he intended to find out everything with his own eyes today.

“How about we talk about the matters here. I want to enjoy the casino atmosphere right now.” He declined the offer politely, giving a convincing reason with the only sole purpose which is to observe everything clearly.

The manager immediately snapped his fingers, called several waiters to prepare the VIP seats that located in the middle of the casino. Of course anything is done for your master as the respective owner of this place.

“Sir, would you like some ladies for the companion, before we start?” The same old man made an offer while inviting him to take a seat.

He gestured with his hand to reject it. “No need, I bring my own. Shall we start now?” He pulled you to sit on his lap as soon as he sat on the couch. You catch what he means right away, then you begin to put your hand behind his neck while the other one rest on his clothed chest, acting like one of his own ladies. But on the contrary, he didn’t have any girls around.

All of his past trauma was swallowing over him, every girl touches made him uncomfortable in some kind of a way. Disgusted by the fact how his mother’s life ended by several men, he’s afraid of the possibility to unleashed the sickening behavior as a man whenever any woman approached him. But after he met you, he’ll bring you along whether to meet the clients or some of the influential person on his work. Therefore, beside of doing your job as his underlings, the other purpose was to avoid some ladies that sent to accompany him in every meetings with them. And that cause you often mistaken as his woman by a lot of people he met.

Back to the casino right now, you directed your gaze all over the room, trying to catch if something strange might be happen. Sometimes, you took a glance at Mingi who’s still talking to those manager, trying to read his cautious expression to the surrounding. He’ll occasionally caress your thigh for a few times, only to keep your composure.

You flicked your eyes to the side, noticing the odd. Proceed to run your fingertips from his chest up to his neck and end up covering your lips from the side which is pressing against his right ear. Mingi hold the grunts that almost escape from the back of his throat as he feel your soft breath hitting on his skin, and he finally giving the attention you wanted.

“2 o’clock direction. I’ll check it right away.” You whispered into his ear.

His eyes aimed at the place you’re referring to, then slightly lean away from you. “My sweetie is bored huh? You wanna look around?” He brushed his palm on your back gently, still didn’t drop the act.

“Yes please, can I?” You cooed at him, giving your pampered look as convincing as possible.

“Of course, everything for you baby.” Then he pulled you closer, pressing his lips to yours for a few seconds before let you go.

You didn’t expect he will kiss you right away. Isn’t it too much for a mere acting? Wait, did he repay your previous actions? Mingi’s expression was hard to read, he only smirked at you as if “good luck” was the only two words that written on his face. However, you swift away towards the possible problems occurred, after showed them your sweetest smile for the last time.

Well, it didn’t go smoothly as you wanted. You pretend to be interested in the slot machines that lined up near you, under the pretext of approaching those suspicious figures stealthily. But it ended up they’re in the middle of the crowd where it’s difficult for you to reach. You tried to sneak in, squishing your body among a lot of people. To be honest, this wasn’t your main forte. Your part is to deal with the target directly as a decoy. And there’s no other option, it’s too crowded for any commotion to occur, so the only thing you can do is watching them closely.

They drew closer to each other, it seems like exchanging something under their coat. You accidentally stole glances with one of them, and somehow he looks quite familiar but there’s no other clue because half of his face is covered with hat. You still tried to get closer carefully, but alas it didn’t work. They’re gone, blending in with the crowd, wearing the same black coat with people around in the casino.

You turned your gaze to Mingi from the place you’re standing right now. Only realized that his eyes was fixed on you from the earlier you left. Slightly shook your head at him, you gave him signal that the target was gone. He rolled his eyes, immediately stopping his conversation with the manager before barging out of the casino furiously. You followed him behind, who’s cursing along the way towards his car.

Pulled the highest gear and stepped on the gas pedal, he’s driving in full speed. His eyes pierced straight towards the road as if he could tear it apart. There’s too many questions running inside of your head, but you’re afraid to ask. So you just sit quietly on the passenger seat beside him.

He pressed the bridge of his nose every now and then, hoping it’ll reduce the headache a little bit. But it didn’t work either way. He decided to break the silence after quite some time. “Haa.. I can’t trust those old man either.”

You dared yourself to give him a response, “why? You have known him for a long time though.”

“It just.. my own suspicion. Nothings deep.” He looked much calmer than before while still focused on driving his car. “That’s why I bring you instead of useless bunch of my men.”

Right, the casino manager must be recognize them here and there if Mingi wanted to check it in secret. But it still didn’t work, you lost those troublemaker too. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t do it properly.”

He clicked his tongue before bringing his fingers that belong to his right hand, running through some stands of your loose hair. “Relax, sometime it tend to happen.” You thought he would be mad, but actually he calmed you instead. To the point you could feel the cold sweat enveloped over your palm because you’re too afraid of him.

His phone is ringing, the incoming call notification were written on the head unit screen, it’s from one of his men. Informed him that they had found the target location. He swerved the steering wheel all at once, immediately drove to the location they’re referring to. Just like how he speculated before, he felt satisfied that it was right, those bastards base was in the red light district area.

Upon the arrival, he gave you a warning sign to not to get out of the car no matter what happen, before rushing out and being greeted by his several men. You saw him through the car window, the way his annoyed expression drawn on his face, but still kept the composure remain. It can be seen that he burn the cigarettes tip and taking a deep drag of it, just to calm himself down.

He pulled out his favorite handgun, racking the slide once to load in the bullet, then he gave the command to break into those place. His men spreading all over the main hall in swift motion, but strangely there’s not a single person was on guard there. Due to unexpected of this big place, Mingi ordered them to split up and told them to kill anyone they met.

On the other hand, you just sat quietly in the car, even though occasionally heard the gunshots noise one after another coming from the mansion which couldn't be muffled by how tight the car was. Oh to be the passenger princess, you’re hating how useless you are right now.

You startled by the sudden rang coming from Mingi’s phone, Yunho’s name was pop out on the screen. Hesitant whether you should answer or ignore it afraid of being too nosy. After you think clearly like how careless is your master to left out his important being here, you end up slide the green button to the right.

“Hello, where are you right now?” Yunho’s anxious voice heard across the phone.

You answered him carefully, “Uhm sir, it’s me. We’re in the red light district right now.”

“Wait, where’s Mingi?”

“He’s in the big white mansion,” you look around trying to describe how it’s look like. “..it’s located deep in the area, we turned left from the four junction of the main road, then-”

He cut off your explanation, “Shit, he’s lured in! All of it was a trap.” He sighed, “can you reach hi-” Good heaven, the call disconnected due to signal lost.

You shook the phone, hoping it’ll catch the signal back, but it didn’t work. As soon as you gathered your mind, you took the 'smith and wesson' out of the glove compartment, slipping in between the thigh band under your little black dress. Getting out of the car, you entered the white mansion in instant.

It's weirdly too calm on the first floor. Feeling like lost the sense of direction, you just followed your gut. Running to the left wing of mansion, checking on every single room, you only wished to find Mingi as soon as possible. On every step you wondered, Why did the gunshots noise stopped? It makes you difficult to track the source of the fight.

Shit thing’s happen, you just entered the wrong room when lost in your thought. There’s a man relaxed sitting on a big armchair while smoking his cigar. You really want to back off, but he already saw you first. You decided to play along rather than causing more complicated thing.

“Good grief, they sent a new bitch”

You came closer to his side while giving him a formality smile. Putting your hand to his shoulder and leaning over him, just keeping the act before you intended to attack him quickly. Alas, he gripped your wrist instead, after that twisting your arm and held it back. He’s grabbing the chunk of your hair then yanked your head to the side, “ I knew you’re not just an ordinary bitches”

You elbowed him in the face with other free hand and giving him a round kick in attempt to released yourself. You took a few steps back, pulled out your handgun then shooting him right on his leg. But if feels nothing to him, he proceed to kick your hand which holding the gun till it flew away. You dodged his every blows as best as you can. Cause it’s impossible to counter him with your only bare hands meanwhile he’s much bigger than you. In the end, he managed to grab your hair again. The pain spreading all over your head as if it almost ripping out your scalp.

You’re just about to give up, there’s no energy left in you. But the door slammed loudly, woke you up. There’s your master firing shots eagerly to this bastard. As soon as his dead body fall onto the floor, you run towards Mingi who’s covered in blood stain.

Your voice was shaking while wiping the blood out of his face, “you’re hurt.”

“It’s not mine.” Referring to those blood. He hold your hand gently, staring deep into your eyes, looking at how messed up you’re right now. “But you are the one who’s injured”

He crouched down to pick your gun and giving it back to you. “Who else using this gun type besides you.” After that, he smoothed your hair, running his finger through it. How could he’d be this gentle despite in the midst of chaos. It feels like the world is collided and there’s only you two left.

But those feels didn’t last long, both of you drawn to the sound of explosion coming from the deep within the mansion. You just aware that half of it was burned in fire when you looked outside. He took you to another side of mansion which he considered it safe. On your way there, many dead bodies laying around. You could identified one and two of them, only realizing it mostly coming from Mingi’s side.

“You didn’t lose right?” You asked him while still running hand in hand.

“What makes you think like that?” He turned towards you, “ I killed ‘em all on the other side.”

Before continuing his words, both of you were blocked by the groups of his men right in the middle of mansion grounds. When he was going to hand you over to them with the intention of taking you out safely, one of them firing the gun. The bullet grazed your upper right arms, made you fall onto your knees due to shock.

“Are you fucking out of your mind?!!” Mingi was furious at the sight, he bombard the remaining bullets he had to them without thinking, gunned them down one by one. However, he’s still out numbered. Whether he want it or not, he received multiple shots that pierced through his body. You almost gone crazy, seeing him so badly injured with your own eyes. It got to the point he couldn’t stand on his own feet anymore.

You stepped to the front, covering him in injured state while shooting them with your trembling left hand. Not too long, the strong wind hitting the ground while you’re still busying yourself in the gunfight, followed by the sound of helicopter blade getting closer. You squinted your eyes trying to see it clearly, then found a muscular man shooting his machine gun towards Mingi’s underlings, from inside of the helicopter.

“Step back! We’ll take over.” Yunho shouted, walking from your behind while pointing his gun at them.

Catching on the situation, you backed yourself out. Proceed to put Mingi’s arm around your shoulder then carried him to the safer place. You laid him down slowly, before starting to rip some part of your dress in attempt to stop his bleeding. Your tears fell right away in a moment he struggled to reach your cheek.

You hold his hand, “please don’t move too much, I tried my best to treat your wound okay?”

When you finished covered his wounds, his grip was weakened. You can’t think clearly at the moment, checking his heartbeat back and forth by pressing your ear on top of his chest. You tried to talk to him over and over, hoping he would stay conscious. Till there’s one time you couldn’t feel his breath anymore.

“No! please don’t leave me!” You cried out, crumbling apart, there’s no point to continue your life if he’s gone. Everything’s went silence as if there’s no gunfight going on in the background.

You decided to racked the slide of your gun, then pointing out under your chin. The tears keep running out of your eyes as you looked down to his body. You took a deep breath, then putting you finger to the trigger. Chanting his name in the whisper. After that, you didn’t felt anything as you went black out.

⁠✧

More than a week passed since that day, you’re sitting in front of his room with your bandaged arm. Luckily you’re immediately fainted right before pulling the trigger. If not, you wouldn’t know if Mingi is still alive until now. He woke up a few days ago after he went into short coma. His three brothers took turns looking after him, you don’t know the rest of their name but surely Yunho is one of them.

To be honest, you really wanted to scold him the second he woke up, but Yunho already done that, so you don’t need to.

“He’s looking for you.” Yunho said that to you before he left.

You knocked on the door, then stepping into Mingi’s room. He smiled at you as soon as you come closer towards his bed. Right now, he’s leaning against the headboard with his naked torso covered in the bandage, he looks much better than the last time you saw him. You sure have known for a long time how fit his body is. But not today, you felt something strange when you looked at his toned chest as if you want to run your fingertips through it.

“What’s wrong?” His voice interrupted your thoughts.

You shook your head in instant, “nothing.”

“C’mere.” He pulled you to sit next to him. Then brushing his hair back before he put his forehead into the nape of your neck. “Is it weird if I miss you this bad?”

You chuckled, starting to caress his hair gently. “No, you’re not. I feel the same way.”

“You do?” he’s still in the same position, mumbled his words.

“Yes I do, sir.”

He grunted while looking up at you. “Don’t call me sir.” His lips pressing against your ear, “call my name instead, okay sweetie?” He’s started to nibble your earlobe, flicking it using his tongue then tugging it between his teeth.

Biting your lower lips, you tried to hold the sensation of him sucking on your skin. You put your hand on his chest, which had been itching to touch it since your first step into his room. Teasing him a little bit more by trailing on every curved of his chest to his abdominal muscle with your second fingers. He groaned, while he’s still kissing on the side of your neck.

He talked between the kisses, “you know what, actually I want to devour you back in the casino.” He bite on your neck, “the way your plumped ass pressed on my cock.” He bite you again, “the way your delicate fingers touched my skin.” He bite you for the third time before whispering into your ear, “and of course, the way your lips slammed with mine.”

You turned to him, circling your hands to the back of his neck. Staring deep into his eyes, mouthing “I love you” then began to devour his lips passionately. He gave the same energy by parting your lips with his tongue, trying to collide it with yours. You moan between the kisses as he grope your butt to pick you onto his lap.

But really, this isn’t the stamina of someone who just woken up from a coma while still being injured here and there. You grinded on his clothed cock, feeling it growing hard on every stroke you made.

He parted out from the kiss only to see the aroused face of yours. The way your half lidded eye staring on him and how red is your flushed cheek, making him groan on the sight of it. He brought his hand to pull your skirt up, starting to teased your wet clothed clit using his thumb that moving in circle. You throw your head back while moaning out his name.

His other hand slightly choking on your throat while you still dry humping his cock erratically, all of it brought you to the cloud nine as you came in your panties, drenched it out to the core.

“Ah Mingi, stop!” You couldn’t resist your body to spasm after pinching your clit hard, he didn’t give you break to riding down your first orgasm. He’s satisfied at how messy you are right now, then giving you a quick kiss on your lips as a reward.

Didn’t want to lose, you started trailing kisses on his chest down to his stomach. And stopped right in front of his bulge, unbuttoning his pants, then letting it out sprung free. His cock is swollen hard and throbbing at every single touch you made. You looked up at him, feeling proud of yourself as he can’t do anything and only anticipating what will you do next.

You licked the tip of his hard member, twisting it between your tongue to the left and right, before sucking on it hard. Your hand started stroking the remaining length up and down, while you’re bobbing your head to bring it deeper touching to the back of your throat. He couldn’t help but groan loudly, while he grab your hair as it guide you to move faster. “I- I’m so close baby.” You could feel his cock is pulsing, then he shoot his load into your mouth.

Sticking out your tongue, you showed him that you took all of his cum then you swallowed it all the way. “Baby, ride my cock right away.” He cooed. You yanked your panties, and started to slide his cock slowly into your tight pussy. It’s unexpectedly big, that it's bulging out your lower belly everytime it hitting on your womb. At first you grinding it slowly, made him throwing his head back to the headboard. But after quite some time, he dig his fingers on your waist, thrusting his cock deeper and faster. You only cried out incoherent moan as he thrusting it frantically. Pain and pleasure becoming one, he gave one last hard thrust, before filled his cum into your pussy. You squirm and spasm as you feel his hot seed keep spurting in your womb.

He groaned, “that was so good.” Then tucked your hair behind your ear. While still sitting on his lap, you put your head on his shoulder trying to catch your breath.

“Baby..” he called you softly.

You still felt tired, didn’t budge at all in his arms. “Hmm?”

“I think my stitches are open.”

You immediately sat down to his side before seeing the blood seeping through his lower bandage. You shook your head. Ah, it looks like both of you have to be patient for quite some time, until Mingi recover completely.

⁠✧

Milan, 3 Years later.

“Mingi stop!” You pushed him while giggling at how ticklish he’s kissing you. He’s on top of you right now, planting kisses all over you neck, and leaving some mark on it.

You covered his mouth, this is your second attempt to stop him from attacking you. “Come on, there’s our babies around.” You sulking at him.

He back off easily every time you mention the kids. “Alright alright.” Then, he took a seat beside you obediently.

Mingi and you got a pair of twins right away after the marriage, now they’re almost two years old. Walking around the living room and playing with their toys.

Mingi decided to move out to the complete opposite of different continents after he recovered from the injuries. Leaving out the dangerous work and starting a new life with you instead. Sometimes he miss the old times. Just like right now, he’ll teasing you whenever remembered the piece memories of it.

“I can’t get it out of my mind the way you looked at me in those mansion.” He chuckled.

“What am I supposed to do? You’re dying, it’s not even funny.” You’re even more annoyed at him.

“It just, you don’t need to stain your hand by shooting those bastards to death.” He’s giving a serious looks on his face. “It was my biggest regret that I can’t protect you.”

You caress his cheek, “why? You’re doing your best and please stop blaming yourself.”

“It’s not like that, I want you to remain pure. So just let me bear all of your sin. I don’t want to drag you into the hell. An angel is supposed to be in heaven” He frowned, disappointed for all of the things that have been through.

You never know if he thinks about you like that, the sweet side of him never changed since the first time you met, he always save you no matter what happen.

You laughed, “I don’t want to stay in heaven by myself. Let me bring the heaven to you”

“Right, you always bring heaven to me though.” Shaking his head and starting to laugh too. He immediately stand up to approach the twins.

“Let’s wrap it up my prince and princess, it’s a nap time for you two.” He chase them around, which hating to take a nap.

You heard the doorbell rang, so you rushed to open the door.

“Oh Hello, Is Mr. Song at home?” A man who looks a little younger, looking for your husband.

“Wait a minute” You turned your back “Honey, there’s someone looking for you!” You’re going inside, taking his place to put your lovely twin babies to the bed.

Mingi walked towards the front door, fall silent for a moment, after looking at the figure who’s standing right in front of him. “Jongho?”

“Well, long time no see, brother.”

disclaimer : this works didn't instigate any psychological deviation so please seeking the professional when you feel unwell. All of it is purely fiction and for entertaintment purpose only.

[holybibly]

You're so right on your possessive piece on san, seonghwa, and mingi. Especially mingi that boy is so possessive! And he loves attention. Hard thoughts here, just imagine him catching you staring at all his rings on his big hands OR THOSE THIGHS. And him teasing you about it cause you're so cute when you blush. Also pussy drunk mingi >>> he eats out on the counter, in his studio, in the bed, everywhere. Your writing is so amazing and it's so fun to see all your thoughts through hard thoughts week 💚💚

Just a reminder, the hard / unholy hours will continue for the rest of the week.

Thank you, darling. I'm trying so hard to write more and better so that you can continue to enjoy my work. Frankly, I love praise, but I'm always terribly embarrassed by it. But I really appreciate everything you've said 💖💖💖

And now it's time for a bit of talk about my toxic boys. I hit the nails on the heads, didn't I? I have a feeling that practically all of my bunnies are of the same opinion. They give off that vibe, don't they? And I should probably just write something for them. I'm kind of crazy about this concept and I'm not ashamed of it at all.

Oh Mingi, he's definitely a pussy eater and yes, he's fucking drunk on it. (Slightly off-topic, but I'm sure Seonghwa, Wooyoung and Hongjoong feel the same way. As if they want spent a lifetime between your legs. San is definitely an oral fixation and enthusiast. As for Yunho, Yeosang and Jongho, I think they don't mind eating you. But it's not high on their list of priorities.)

I think that at the beginning of your relationship he would have been a little bit shy about it. But, hell, he'll find it harder to control himself the more time you spend together. Poor guy just wants to stick his tongue up your sweet little cunt, sue him for that.

So when he finally gets to do it, all hell is going to break loose. God, he can never get enough of you, can he? He's got this wild hunger inside him. It's clawing at him from the inside. He needs you so badly.

You're his perfect breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

"It's all just for me." Mingi moans. He leans forward and licks a thick strip of your cunt. You cry out at the hot sensation, at the wet and skillful tongue sliding through your folds, and your head falls back onto the pillow as you feel his fingers stretch your labia to give him better access.

He pulls away for a split second, just long enough for him to hum lowly and mutter under his nose, "So damn wet and only mine." Your hands are gripping the sheets, and he's even more enthusiastic as he dives back in, opening you wide for his insatiable mouth.

Your nipples are so hard they hurt, and your head is spinning from all the sensations. He's driving you crazy, but for Mingi, this is just a warm-up; he hasn't even started to eat you for real yet.

Mingi swirls his tongue greedily around your hole a few times before going deep and fucking you too fast with his talented tongue, enough to make your walls clench tightly around him. After a few more thrusts, he pulls back and uses a long, slow lick to catch the large amount of fluid that is leaking out of you, his tongue pressing down flat and heavy on you. He licks you like an animal, panting and growling at the taste of you. When he reaches your clit, he gently glides his tongue over the sensitive bud several times, finally pulling it into his mouth to suck on it, causing you to moan loudly and desperately.

"Oh, fuck. Damn, M-Mingi. Oh God!"

You swear you can feel him smiling at you with a smug and lecherous smile as he returns to your hole to start all over again, but with even more desire and hunger. His guttural moan sends a wave of destructive vibrations through you.

He's pretty damn good at it.

You lose track of how many times he repeats this process until the excitement overwhelms you so much that you think you may die.

Since he started fucking you with his tongue, you have no idea how much time has passed. Hours, maybe even days. Mingi certainly has the look of a man who could do this forever.

"I can't do it anymore." You say, and the desperation in your voice is so clear to hear. 

"Do you want to cum, doll?" He mumbles, pressing his cheek against your inner thigh, his gaze so foggy and distracted that he will be completely whipped for you. "You can do it. If you want to. Cum for me, doll. Let me drink you more."

[last-words-ofashootingstar]

hi! i really like your baby series and i’m so intrigued with the storyline! this is not a request or anything, but more of a thought or like curiosity over the members relationship and thoughts of baby? how is it affecting them individually? do they truly not plan on freeing baby?

also, i think you’ve improved so much with your writing lately! love seeing authors grow<3

aaaaah thank you so much 🥹i actually got another ask similar to this;

im glad people are interested in this series, i've been really enjoying making it more fleshed out ! i was actually already writing a "deep dive" into baby and the members relationships just like to look at as a reference when writing more- so im glad people want to see more

this isn't a full chapter or written like one, more like headcanons for how each of the members interact with baby and how they're affected, and some bits and pieces of plot that i have in my head.

wondering wtf we're talking about ? read it here !

‼️disclaimer: it's important to remember that this is a FICTIONAL world. mental health is a complex thing, and this au explores it a lot: especially right now i'm going to talk about how this situation affects the other members of the group, and their mental health. take care of yourselves !

so,

as a group, as a whole, they're messed up. seonghwa is someone who they look up to and love and spend almost all of their time with, so obviously watching him do these things to someone is... uuuuhm let's say upsetting ? unsettling ? scary ? deeply messing with the very foundation of their relationship ? yes all of those things.

it's canon in the story that hwa has mental issues (clearly, because he kidnapped someone because he couldn't stand to let them leave) and he has since well before he met baby. he has outbursts of emotions that often end in destruction; whether it's of things, relationships, or himself. his members already know he's not "normal" but they love him anyway. they made a promise together to "do their best for their clearly challenged hyung", but what does that really mean ?

well for one, they didn't immediately call the police. i have an image in my head of them all having a very long conversation about what to do after they see him freaking the fuck out at the thought of them taking you away (i'll probably write this out one day soon). yeosang, who you're canonically closest too in the beginning, is obviously like "WTF DAWG WE'RE CALLING THE POLICE, DUH". i think it was most likely hongjoong who stopped him and the others from turning him in. he's his best friend and probably in a close tie with baby for being the one hwa's illness has affected the most (before san and mingi are subjected to watching hwa mental break someone, more on that in a second).

all of them are very torn, and i know that's hard to imagine probably — but think about it. they're his victims too. they've watched him for years as he went through the ups and downs of whatever disorder it is that he has. they're extremely close. to some extent, i'd say they're probably trauma bonded with him (when a victim and their abuser form a connection, "interspersed with periods of kindness and affection, which creates a sense of dependence and loyalty towards the abuser despite the harmful treatment"). mentioned in "Medicine", you're the reason he threw away his razor blades and the reason he was happy in the few months you were together. so they're afraid of him and of taking you away from him.

so how does that affect their relationship with his newest victim - baby ? i broke it down by member so i don't go crazy trying to fit them all into boxes 😭 we'll start with what's already been written as canon and then dive deeper (i saved san and mingi for last because i have soooo many thoughts)

HONGJOONG : baby no like. i briefly mention this in "Medicine", hwa has a picture of him in the room and you resent the fact that he's obviously so close to your kidnapper. but he doesn't treat you any differently because of that.

he made a promise to himself (lots of them did) that he'd try to help you and his only hyung at the same time (which is kind of impossible tbh and he knows this deep down). he lowkey resents himself, he prides himself on being a good person and you can't do that while being complicit with your best friend keeping someone captive and paying people hush money.

since he's hwas best friend, he trusts him to help "care" for you. it's times like that when joong tries to redeem himself. he'll tell hwa "yes of course i helped her take a bath", BITCH NO HE DID NOOOOT !! he (and the others) will never cross the line of making you feel more vulnerable than ever by looking at you while you're naked. he lets you do it on your own, and it's the only times you ever get to; so you start resenting him less and less as time goes on because he lets you have a little bit of independence. at some point, hate turns into just tolerance for the leader of the group. you don't mind him, but you don't like him either.

also because he's hwas best friend, he's the least afraid to stand up to him (because he's least likely to be attacked). whenever seonghwa is being especially overbearing or strict or clingy and he can see you starting to freak out, he pushes you behind him and tells hwa to take a walk to calm himself.

that's probably the extent of your relationship, because of your hesitation about him. you don't want to play with him when you're in little space and you certainly don't want to even talk to him when youre not.

YUNHO : nothing is really set in stone about your relationship or how everything affects him, but i do have some thoughts.

he was one of the ones on yeosangs side, wanting to immediately call the police. and when they didn't, he was just kind of numb to the whole situation for a while. it was probably something small you did that got him sucked further into the shit show. you accidentally broke something and cried about how hwa would be upset, or asked him to give you a piggy back ride because he was the tallest and you wanted to feel big for a moment.

whatever it is, after he interacts with you for the first time when you're in little space and not crying your eyes out — he's less hesitant. he wants to help you clean up the mess or hold you on his back so you can feel like you aren't squish-able in hwas hand, even for a second.

as he grows closer with you, he gets more and more upset with the way hwa treats you; because he's no longer distancing himself. he tried to stand up to hwa once. and only once...

YEOSANG : again, canonically closest to reader before the whole kidnapping debacle. so not only is he watching his hyung fall deeper into madness, he's watching someone he considers a friend be slowly broken day by day. he's undoubtedly fighting himself every single day on what to do. the logical part of him says help the innocent woman begging for his help, but his heart breaks every time he thinks of turning his friend of almost a decade in. he probably fell into a depressed state for a good while before he finally realized there was nothing he could do but try and help both of you (again, impossible).

you don't see yeosang after the first night for weeeeeks, and you're glad because you feel deeply betrayed that he's letting this happen to you.

when he does come around, you don't want to look at him (and you're not allowed to per seonghwa's no eye contact rule). but the first time he shows up in the apartment, he's on a mission to give you break from hwa regardless if he tries to stop him. yeosang just grabs your hand and tells to hwa, "im babysitting!" it's the first time you leave the apartment since you've been taken, and even though he only takes you one floor down and to his and yunho's apartment; you're immediately relieved to be doing anything without seonghwa breathing down your neck.

because of that, and your previous friendship, you forgive (?) him pretty quickly. he still has that voice in the back of his head saying that because hwa trusts him, he could just hold your hand and walk right out of the building. but he doesn't. because hwa's shouts and cries whenever they tried to pry you from him echo louder.

he's more afraid to stand up to him than joong is, but he still does it. not to his face. but things like giving you a bag of gummy bears or something when he's "babysitting", or letting you read or watch things hwas forbidden. letting you choose what to do before he comes and drags you back to your strict routine.

he still likes to think he's still your friend, but he knows better than that. friends don't hold each other captive.

WOOYOUNG : holy shiiiiiiit does he detest hwa. i mention he used to look up to him, but now can barely stand to look in his eyes. he even goes as far to hold him down when he reaches for you (along with yeosang in Medicine).

he loves kids, and while you aren't actually a kid, you're often forced into your mindset of one. he stormed off when they came to the conclusion that they wouldn't call the police, and while he came back around quicker than sang (because his best friend lives there) he was opposite of him. he ignored you completely. he wanted to distance himself as much as possible so he didn't break their promise to take care of hwa.

but, again, it's something small you do. you're all alone (besides the paid off bodyguard) while hwa is recording something. you look bored out of your mind, counting the tiles in the hall. you remind him of his brother. so he sits with you.

by the time hwa comes to get you, you're already attached to wooyoung. he's good with you. makes you feel like the world didn't end when hwa dragged you out of it and into his bubble.

he comes to love you (in a strange, broken way), while he hates hwa. every time he sees you crying (which is probably often), he's reminded of his brother and then the fact that you don't just act like a kid, you feel like one in your semi-permanent little space that seonghwa's built for you. and then, the two crash to together and he thinks about what if his brother was kidnapped ? this might be how he'd react, crying and begging for someone to explain why this is happening.

he does everything in his power to make you comfortable without blowing up everyone's lives in the process. he lets you nap in his bed whenever you want so you can sleep without hwa's arms locked around you. he looks hwa dead in the eyes as he throws you a piece of candy. he piggy backs you around the company building, taking turns with yunho. he even gives you a shoulder to cry on when you aren't in little space. he says he's sorry for everyone's actions and lets you rant and punch his chest until you exhaust yourself.

he doesn't feel sad (for hwa at least, like most of the others might. but he definitely feels sad for you). he's angry. at hwa, at the people who agree to be paid off, at the members, and of course; at himself.

JONGHO : canon bff. ngl i want to make a 12k story about you just being happy to make up for... everything lmaooo. lots of facts about you set in stone: you ran to jongho because he was the scariest looking member, and he protected you from hwa (if only briefly). he calls you little bear, and you call him big bear (im gonna cry). one of his shirts is your favorite sleep shirt- but hwa doesn't let you wear it often (cause he's a jealous jerk). he does lots of things with you and spends a lot of time with you, even helped you make a stuffed bear.

okay, all of that being said... he hates you. not YOU like as a person, he (like woo and others) comes to deeply care about you. but he hates the idea of you. in his mind, you made hwa snap. you made his company corrupt, you did this that and the other. but when he really sits down and thinks about it, YOU didn't do any of that. HWA did.

and the thought of that is too much for him to handle, so he puts the blame on you until the blame game dies off and he just accepts that this is nobodies fault but hwa's, and subsequently his for not being brave enough to give up everything they've worked for.

he, like sang, often takes you away to the other apartment to give you a break. they even have a little area for you specifically after a few months. because that's where you spend almost all of your time when not on hwas (thankfully metaphorical) leash. being that it belongs to two members youre closest with (woo and jongho) and the member hwa is closest with (joong); he feels safer letting you be there than with yeosang and yunho (he still thinks yeosang is going to steal you away and run off because you knew him before).

he'll also always come to you when hwa refuses to let you leave the apartment (either cause he's paranoid or you're being punished), he'll come and offer you a little escape from reality by reading you as many stories as you ask for.

whenever you slip from your little space, he strays away. because when you're in your right mind, you ask them why they're doing this and how can they sleep at night ?

and he doesn't have an acceptable answer for any of the questions you ask.

SAN AND MINGI : okay this section is for them as a whole but then more specific details for each of them.

because they live with hwa, and now you, they're unfortunately given a first row seat to the horror of their close friend doing everything in his power to break someone's resolve and will to fight. and HOLY SHIT DOES THAT FUCK SOMEONE UP. even though they aren't directly involved (most of the time) they have to see and or hear the abuse that takes place everyday. it wears them down almost as much as it does you (actually not nearly as much but still- good gawd dayum).

the day seonghwa had kidnapped you, they were the ones who heard you scream for help. san was the one to wrestle hwa off of you while mingi ran for the others. your screams for help as you banged on the wall to get their attention will very well haunt them for the rest of their lives. not only that, but your sobs the entire first week- especially at night. after the third night, san went to one of the other apartments; but mingi forced himself to listen to your sorrow because he was partly responsible. this was his punishment.

they had to watch you be carried from room to room, barely able to use your own legs. they had to talk most with you while never once meeting your eyes lest they face seonghwa's wrath. it's briefly mentioned that mingi had to take a three week hiatus to hide the bruises after he was caught looking in your eyes. while he had it bad, you had it worse. he made you kneel facing a corner, telling you that if you couldn't keep your eyes to yourself that you shouldn't look at anything at all, actually ! and you, and san who was in the other corner to avoid the same fate, had to listen to what he did. his punishment was only physical, and only once (that doesn't really make it any better but-) but yours continued for a week. and the both of them were forced to watch as hwa put you back in the corner day after day after you ate breakfast, only allowed to move when he said so. it was breaking your mind slowly, forced to look at nothing but the plain walls as life when on around you. the seventh day, they watched as you clung to his leg and begged like you were begging for your life.

they watched as you slowly became less and less defiant, and they started feeling like it was normal when hwa sat you down at the table every morning. they were broken down along with you.

but along with all of that, they also have the most to try and help you whenever possible (while sticking to their vague promise of helping hwa)

SAN : in "Losing Dogs", i tried to make him more empathic with reader, trying to get you to clam down so you can avoid hwa's anger. it's clear that he's attached to you by that point (around six months in), even calling you his own nickname of "peanut" (stfu why did i do that im gonna cry again) . in "Medicine", it's canon that he doesn't like to call you "Baby" because he likes to give you some sort of independence from hwa, even if you're too fuzzy headed to notice.

in the beginning though, he avoided you like the plague. he was only out of his room for meals (which hwa insisted should still be eaten together, like before). he didn't even glance your way even though he could feel your glare. he was detaching from everythiiiiing going on around him. it took him two weeks to even speak unprompted, even to wooyoung.

after the first two weeks, you were in little space more and it was less chaotic in the apartment, so his mind starting to think things weren't so bad even if his gut said this was still wrong.

your relationship started with small things, as with the others, when the timer hwa set for you allowed time with the tv went off- he turned it off, and left the tv on. telling hwa it didn't go off before giving you a knowing smile. he noticed your finger hovering over the button when the news channel was selected, but it never pressed down because hwa forbade it. so he caught you after lunch when you were on the way to the bathroom and told you what was happening outside.

he knew it was because hwa was trying to make you forget there was a world out there besides this building and the company. and that was something he could fix. it was little, but the smile on your face every day when he told you every headline he could remember was big. it became your secret meeting place.

during your week long time out, whenever hwa would leave the room; he'd run over and place his hands under your knees to give you a small respite until he heard his footsteps coming back. he was always back on the couch before hwa entered, like nothing ever moved.

whenever hwa is having an episode, you find yourself hiding behind san when jongho or sang aren't around. your fragile mind telling you that they're strong, so they'll protect you. and he does, until hwa notices you hiding and calms himself down so he doesn't scare his baby any further.

he knows it's wrong, he knows he could knock hwa out and take you to the nearest hospital everytime you end up at the table with a new injury. and he hates himself because he knows he won't.

no matter how much he cares about his 'peanut', his hyung comes first.

MINGI : OH MY BABY 😭 YOU RIGHT HES SO PRECIOUS i really be putting him through it omg... okay so, canonically; he's been at the receiving end of hwa's abuse almost as much as baby has. in "Serendipity", before everything, he still flinched and covered his head when hwa was yelling. obviously, he's already scared of him. his hiatus because the bruises, a hinted at escape attempt that ended similarly to looking you in the eyes

(only ten times worse because he dared to fight back to give you time to run as far as possible)

he already has anxiety, and stacked ontop of that is being a victim of hwas instability, and ontop of THAT is watching with san as he goes about making you completely compliant and dependent on him, AND ONTOP OF THAT is the fact that he's a good person stuck in an impossible situation; wanting to help you but also being attached to hwa and everything they've worked for. yeah, mingi is NOT OKAY. but he does his best.

he's close to you. and you're close to him. it's trauma-collective bonding TO THE MAX (when a traumatic experience or situation affects two or more people and they form a strong bond because of it) because you're both more emotionally vulnerable than the others. he isn't even on the same leveeeel as yeosang, wooyoung, and jongho. you have a bond like nothing else (even though it's still undoubtedly unhealthy).

after the first five days of listening you sob at night, he sat next to you at the table. he and san always sat on the other side before that morning. with hwa on your other side, he didn't see as mingi placed a comforting hand on your knee. one that seemed to say everything. hwa attributed your crying to the fact that you were still adjusting, and he never knew that it was because mingi was silently apologizing.

something i'm actually writing: after that, he said that he would always leave his door unlocked in case you needed a shoulder to cry on or even just a place to be away from hwa for a moment. the first time you took him up on his offer was the night after you both got in trouble for making eye contact. you snuck out of hwa's arms and came to mingi, even though you were scared shitless he'd wake up and find you missing from his side. you didn't say anything, and neither did he. it was an unspoken conversation that told him you knew he was a victim too as you locked eyes again, a hint of defiance in both of you despite what you had gone through just hours before. after that, the next time was a few weeks later after you tried to rapunzel your way out a window with some sheets. you asked if he still loved his hyung. he knew he should say no, especially when he was the cause of the scratches on your legs and the bandage on your crushed foot, the source of all of your pain.

but he still said yes.

(I WENT SO CRAZY WRITING THIS IM SORRY I JUST HAVE SO MANY IDEAS😢 THIS AU GOT ME IN A HEADLOCK)

[staytinyville]

TAROT CARD EVENT (1K Followers)

↣ Summary: Dive into a tarot reading with a story! Choose a member that calls to you the most and find a wonderful story to go along with each card interpretation

↣ Characters/Pairing: ATEEZ x Reader , Stray Kids x Reader , TXT x Reader

↣ Genre: Romance, Spiritual, Different AUs

↣ AU/Trope info: Each card has a different kind of story to tell. The AUs will be stated at the beginning of each chapter

↣ Word Count: +30k

↣ Warnings: Some chapters will have smut (again each warning will be before each fic)

↣ A/N: In honor of reaching 1k followers, this is the event I have decided to create! It is both something to enjoy reading, while getting an interactive feature of having a tarot reading (Major Arcana only)!

THE FOOL 

Beginnings, Innocence, Free-spirit, Spontaneity

The Fool signifies a point in your life where you are about to step into the unknown towards a journey. This is your time to embrace the future as you take your life towards a new beginning. 

Be open minded with how you see things–take in the air that flows against your body as your worries, fears, and anxieties fall from your spirit. This is the time to let go of your inhibitions and follow your heart. 

Take the leap of faith! Spend time with your inner child in order to bloom into what the universe wants you to be. 

0 THE FOOL

In order to experience this event in full capacity, take a moment to look over all of the members I have written about. Each one is a different tarot card (Major Arcana only) with its own interpretation by me. There will be a link to the website I use to find out what each card means. The card system is the common Rider-Waite Tarot Deck. 

Members include: ATEEZ, Stray Kids, and Together x Tomorrow. 

In order to choose a card, first you have to take a deep breath and calm your mind. Think about all the members for each of the groups before ultimately coming up with the first one that calls to you. It can resonate and if not, you can try again. 

If you feel it is a bit overwhelming to think about all of the members at one time. Not to worry. Narrow it down to the group who you feel does call to you. And go from there. Everyone is different and each card is different. Sometimes it resonates, other times it might not. Do not worry about it too much. You can still enjoy the fic!

This is a work of fiction! None of the depicted stories are real. The cards I have chosen from each of the members do not correspond to the members themselves either! I didn’t not do any readings for them. I only shuffled and placed that card to a member. 

'97 Line : Bang Chan

'98 Line : Seonghwa , Lee Know , Hongjoong

'99 Line : Yunho , Yeosang , San , Mingi , Changbin , Yeonjun , Wooyoung

'00 Line : Hyunjin , Han , Felix , Seungmin , Jongho , Soobin

'01 Line : I.N , Beomgyu

'02 Line : Taehyun , Kai

Affiliates : @cultofdionysusnet , @k-vanity , @monsterfvckersunited , @pirateeznet , @wonderlandnet

[kpopflowerfield]

𝚔𝚙𝚘𝚙𝚏𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚏𝚒𝚎𝚕𝚍'𝚜 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺 𝚠𝚛𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚍

Thank you to @lovetaroandtaemin for tagging me!!

Thank you to all of my new followers and those that have stayed through my inconsistencies as I find a way for me to stay posting. Thank you for all the likes, reblogs and the comments that I have received! I am beyond grateful to be part of this community.

𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺 𝚏𝚒𝚌 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚝𝚜

number of posts this year: 32

number of fics in progress: around 8

total words written: 87,116

𝚖𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚙𝚘𝚙𝚞𝚕𝚊𝚛 𝚙𝚘𝚜𝚝𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺

Daylight

➵ ♥ Notes: ♥ 336

➵ (っ◔◡◔)っDate posted ♥ 11/12

➵♥Pairing♥: Jeonghan x afab!reader

Upgrade

➵ ♥ Notes: ♥ 310

➵ (っ◔◡◔)っDate posted ♥ 11/14

➵♥Pairing♥: Jungwon x afab!reader

Warm me up

➵♥ Notes: ♥ 267

➵(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ Date posted ♥12/5

➵♥Pairing♥: Mingi x afab!reader

Pretty Boy

➵ ♥ Notes: ♥ 221

➵♥ (っ◔◡◔)っDate posted ♥ 12/11

➵♥Pairing♥: Mingi x afab!reader

Gimmie Love

➵♥ Notes: ♥ 161

➵ (っ◔◡◔)っDate posted ♥ 11/21

➵♥Pairing♥: Jungkook x afab!reader

𝙼𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚏𝚒𝚌 𝚘𝚏 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺

Normal People

➵ (っ◔◡◔)っDate posted ♥ 12/15

➵♥Pairing♥: Jeno x reader

➵Word count: 3,923

𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺

Longest one shot: Tick Tock

Word count: 11,262

(っ◔◡◔)っDate posted ♥ 10/22

♥Pairing♥: Yeosang x afab!reader (also yunho! x reader)

Longest series: Nectar (it's a one shot series so it still counts)

Total word count: 53,481

Longest part: Tick Tock

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ Date started ♥: 10/6

♥Pairing♥: multiple idols from atz, skz, svt, nct, enha & bts

Ongoing or complete: ongoing!

𝙼𝚢 𝚏𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚌 𝙸 𝚠𝚛𝚘𝚝𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺

Pretty Boy

(っ◔◡◔)っDate posted ♥ 12/11

♥Pairing♥: Mingi x afab!reader

Word count: 4,948

Why it's my favorite: Mingi is my ult and I always get so nervous that my writing doesn't portray him in the way my thoughts do. But once I finished up on this fic I felt so satisfied with my writing (and after the beta read by the wonderful @lovetaroandtaemin) Easily has become my favorite piece and it's lighthearted, compared to a lot of the angst I have going on.

𝙼𝚢 𝚏𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚜 𝙸 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺

Strikes and Spares by @yuyusbabygirl

➵ bad boy yunho > I seriously can't get enough of this one

Ranching Hearts by @xomakara

➵ I beta read this and omg it's so fucking good, I still go back to read it

Heartbeat by @joonbird

➵ This one I found like two years ago? but mafia! hobi has such a hold on me

araneae by @haologram

➵ chefs kiss, no notes. I absolutely love the plot so much

across stardust by @honeyhotteoks

➵ this one... i don't even know where to begin. I want more of this story so bad I can't even put it into words

𝚝𝚘𝚙 𝟷𝟶 𝚜𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚢𝚎𝚊𝚛

modus- joji

daylight- joji

tick tock- joji

run- joji

ew- joji

deep dive- ateez

afterthought- joji

woke up- xg

ice on my teeth- ateez

enough- ateez

𝙶𝚘𝚊𝚕𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟻

1. finish up nectar series and be more consistent with my writing schedule!! 2. Interact with more people from here and on discord!

Tags: anyone willing to do this!! (sorry don’t have many moots :((

Thank you to everyone again!!! I love the support that I have received from everyone!

[married-2-the-music]

ATEEZ Deep Dive #1/2: The Best Performers of The 4th Gen?

ATEEZ was formed in 2018, at the beginning of the 4th gen, with eight members: Yunho, San, Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yeosang, Wooyoung, Mingi, and Jongho. They, like Dreamcatcher, have very in-depth storylines through their songs and especially music videos, and, also like Dreamcatcher, I won’t be going incredibly specific with every comeback’s meaning unless I think it’s vital to understand the song.

Here are my credentials: I’ve been a fan of ATEEZ for about a year or so, after I watched them on Kingdom, and a kind-of (?) ATINY for a few months. I admit that from what I’ve seen, I prefer their older work to their newer work, but so far that’s only true for their titles, and may not be accurate to their b-sides. I haven’t had the chance to listen in-depth to their new albums yet, so I figured that this was a good opportunity. Edit: (5-31-24) Guess who’s going to see them on tour???

[boopiddyboop]

Don't worry you didn't seem condescending at all!

Maybe bc I learned placidus first I find it easier and like the interceptions and all that too, but I like reading and learning about whs and other methods too I don't mind bc I like I said with astrology you can find "truth" in any way, and it's fun learning new things :)

I love Sailor Moon as well! And love how you know about the mythology and their history, I also learned since I was little and still love it, it's so interesting and I loove all kinds of archetypes too! In general I love anthropology and sociology, and mythology is great for that and very fun!💕💕

Ah with femininity and masculinity I actually didn't mean aesthetic wise! I'm just really annoyed sometimes how sexist they can be the roles(one close example being how a lot of atinys associate Hj as a father and Sh as a mother, ugh I despise it, including when the other memebers say it, but at least it's them not others that say it, and they said it just few times, not making it part of their personality like fans do😮‍💨). Ik there are ppl that use them as gender neutral terms but the majority really doesn't and it is influenced by sexist and heteronormative stereotypes :/ And if we have to use whatever definition of femenine and masculine terms each one have I wished it's us/the persons themselves that allow it, not us, and at least for us and not as a fact and wanting others to use that just bc you like it for whatever reason.

Anyways moving on! I just read your San reading thank you! Ah I really love his chart, and that gem moon and Leo mercury I love are so present, also that Scorpio Mars really embodies that strong warrior facet he has🥺🥺

And in another topic do you think what makes him and Hongjoong be sooo similar in terms of values, words and even habits it's their gem moon and them being water signs, or other things too like the 12 house you mentioned or their Virgo placements?

The, uh, parentification (for lack of better term) of members of a group is always very interesting to me, especially when learning a new group. I do think companies, KQ included, definitely play these things up, especially in the early years. Filing members into tropes can certainly make a whole group more digestible in the beginning, but people aren't just tropes after all. It's just hard for that early era establishment to completely dissolve when a group is gaining new fans. But if older fans still see their roles so rigidly, then I think they just haven't been paying attention~

(Hongjoong in particular always gives me such strong "younger brother" energy and no, not because he's the smallest.)

I'm glad you enjoyed the San reading! I think the earth rising signs + Gemini moon are the leading factors in him being similar to Hongjoong, but I'd love to take a deep dive one day! Probably right after I do my Ateez/Scorpio compilation xD (which will come after I finish Mingi and Wooyoung's natal charts... holy crap I'm almost done with the natal charts).

[yuuana]

Music Monday #225: ATEEZ - BOUNCY (K-HOT CHILLI PEPPERS) release: June 2023 genre: Kpop cw: violence, blood

Of course I had to come back to talk about my best boys, of course I did. And oh boy is there a lot to say ... assuming I can stay coherent long enough to say it all. XD

So after the slight side trip that was SPIN OFF: FROM THE WITNESS, we are now back to THE WORLD with episode 2: Outlaw and as is typical of these middle episodes, there's neither intro nor outro, but rather six tracks that go full out from the first beat and only ever sort of slows down in the shortest 19.5 minutes of the summer so far. Putting the title track in the #3 slot is a Choice all right, one that works well ... but then of course it does - these guys don't play games with anything promo ... unless they're literally playing games to promote. see also: KQ renting pepper trucks for roaming album promotions at the start of the month. ;)

BOUNCY (K-HOT CHILLI PEPPERS) (hereafter referred to solely as Bouncy) starts off with all three rapping members (Seonghwa, Mingi, and Hongjoong) trading lines, low-key taking shit in English, which is pretty much the attitude of the whole song. Early money says this is going to join Pirate King and Say My Name as a "this is the core of ATEEZ" track. The attitude, the vocal range, the energy ... it's a solid three minutes of ATEEZ's musical and lore essences. And sure, it won't be to everyone's tastes - there's quite a few lines that have been run through effectors, making the live stages something to experience all right - but this auntie is both pleased and so very, very proud.

As for the music video ... it's a lot. So much story packed into four minutes, it's kind of a lot to take in and try to parse. And a hint for episode 3? That's usually (though not always) what those post-action teasers are, although some of the Bouncy promo materials also hint at a possible future lore-based webtoon. Either way, I have so many questions ... like how the hell they got a huge-ass smart bullet in that damn pepper. It's a little unclear where in the Halateez revolution this is, whether it's meant to be towards the beginning or the end - that final shot of the main action could mean either and the proliferation of wanted posters is also no help with that. This feels like it's probably set before the major actions in Guerrilla and HALAZIA, though, so my inclination is to think this is towards the beginning of active revolution, especially with the way we're seeing the members acting in independent cells (as opposed to everyone working together) for most of the video.

On a more technical note, between the choice of aspect ratio and several of the visual affects, there's a bit of a retro, late-80s to mid-90s action-thriller vibe going on here that I, an old person with fond memories of 80s and 90s action-thriller movies, simply adore. We're still dealing with a dystopia, but it's a brightly colored one, lit well enough that we can see everything we're meant to see.

THE WORLD, ep 2: OUTLAW is available now in a range of physical versions, including several store-exclusives, plus available for online streaming at all the usual suspects. Promotions are just starting, as it just dropped last week Friday (Thursday on this side of the planet), so no music show wins yet, but streamtiny are working diligently to match the hard work that went into this release!

Want to see Music Monday deep dives more often? Sponsor a song selection! For the low, low price of one (1) KoFi, I'll write up the song of your choice. ANY song of your choice. Yes, even that one that's been played to death. Yes, your obscure faves too. With sponsors, I can stop skipping weeks and falling further and further behind in the releases! Sponsor a current CB for the next open Music Monday slot or sponsor a throwback for a Thursday feature! But seriously, if you've been enjoying my selections and analyses, we (me and the foster kittens) would love a KoFi in thanks. DW | Twitter | Mastodon | Ko-fi | Patreon | Discord | Twitch

[storkmuffin]

I am continuing to enjoy your Reluctant Yunho Bias Experience (apparently lacking in descent into madness, my bad) and seeing the comparison and contrast to mine! Mine has involved 4 sentiments so far: 1. Oh my baby I am so proud of you!!!!!!1!!! (I hate this stop making me feel emotions) 2. That was disgustingly hot I hate you (STOP making me feel emotions) 3. I am full of rage and I don't know why - I want to kick him and kick him and kick him and kick him and kick him and kick him and 4. Rabid shipping. He's very shippable, unfortunately. I'm guessing you're getting a lot of number 3 and probably some number 2, not sure if you've had the number 1 experience yet... Either way I am sorry he has probably made you feel emotions. But at least you've avoided the rabid shipping, so thumbs up on that emotion-related narrow miss!

Sister/Brother in Hottoekism, my Friend, I think - I really do! - that you meant to console me with this message. I'm going to choose to think that, even though you're a Yunho bias which probably means you are in some ways just like him. And that means you just actually ripped all the hair out of my head with this ask, like it's easy, and you did it so nicely with a smile and everything. Didn't even get any blood under your fingernails.

I say this because I actually went through 1-2-3 EXACTLY THE WAY YOU JUST SAID. (Pausing to rend my clothes and howl at the moon). My So Proud Of You moment was actually the Seoul Concert No 1. when he, along with Mingi who just has so much natural charisma he gets drunk on his own power, was the standout performer for me when I had higher expectations of literally everyone else. I was not angry about feeling this. I was just proud, pleasantly surprised, since I had no idea that this was the beginning of the end. The pride moment continued when I went to his fortuitously (fatefully??) timed Birthday Cafes and found that I vibed really well Yunho Ults. Like, so easy, same wavelength. Then came the Yunho Pop deep dive where he does this Geisha thing. I guess my denial was strong enough that it didn't come through to you how very hot this was to me. I watched literally dozens of hours of him doing his Yunho Pop bullshit, and I wouldn't have done that if it didn't mesmerize me. And lo, I started to hate having feelings. And now I just wanna kick him and make him cry and kick him as he cries (I have never done physical violence to anyone in my life).

Hence.

I think ... it might be too early... (omg omg someone make it stop) to congratulate me for missing Rabid Shipping. I just might not end up shipping him with the most popular pairing (Is it Mingi? If it's Mingi I don't ship them because I want to liberate Yunho from Mingi) but... given that this is apparently The Tao of Hottoeks I am very, very afraid.

Like you meant me to be.

Didn't you.

[sanniedaysmarsnights]

Pool time! | Imagine 4 - ATEEZ

A/N: I actually wrote this all in begin July last year but finally edited it!!

Taggging: @atinystaywerewolf @haet-sal @a-soft-hornytiny <3 <3 <3

p.s.: I sincerely wonder if the KQ building has a swimming pool or something?? Because holy moly Mingi is like a dolphin in the water yo. Majestic. anyway!

I am sure they can all swim, but if I’d have to pick one of them to probably swim the least it would be Jongho, largely because of how he prefers not to show any skin so yeah haha. Then I’d say Hongjoong, he just doesn’t strike me as much of a swimming person? 

Mingi would probably yeet himself into the water right away and try to make a big splash lolol. I bet he loves playing in pools 😀 Unfortunately Mingi is also the most clumsy out of everyone and would most definitely be the person who ends up swallowing the most pool water out of everyone by accident. What doesn’t help with this is that he also simply happily opens his mouth under water, either because of laughter or to make a little mouth fountain! 

Yeosangie surprised me with his pool pictures since his hair was wet! He somewhat struck me as a person who would prefer to keep their head above water while swimming haha. Although I must say that I do see Yeosang diving and sneaking up on someone too :) 

Despite his arm strength, I fear that Yeo is at a disadvantage at splashing others or defending.I can see the precise face the members would make when they get water splashed towards their face when their heads are still dry hahaha. Yeo to me seems to be more of a stamina swimmer than speedy swimmer and prefers to physically hold his nose while going under water just like Jongho (very cute). The others might as well but mostly just when taking a leap into the pool :). 

Afterwards he might find himself asking why he even got in the pool with these mayhem makers in the first place, or just laughs it off. Probably a bit of both. #drenched maltezer/doberman

Yeo cruising on a big donut or using those floaties like a king? Yes. 

On that note, all of them in donuts, HA.

Jongho would absolutely unironically do those old people water exercises. (Just to be clear I absolutely ADORE those activities). He would prefer to keep his hair dry, but makes the least fuss about when it does end up getting wet. Another thing he would show off about is not being afraid of the water temperature if it happens to be cold. Mingi, however? Good luck, poor bean. Simply put, when something needs to be done, Jongho simply gets it over with. This ruthlessness makes Jongho very feared in the pool! Not that that stops others from teasing him here and there though haha.

Those long pool noodles are fantastic. I bet that every single one would be found simply floating or gently paddling around with them. Wholesome. Most of the boys would be quite open to trying the exercises too if there was not too much chaotic energy going around. The floating items in the pool can be slippery and the boys can be clumsy, so some yelping, flailing and toppling over is to be expected. Hongies or Mingi’s face when they accidentally get hit in the face with a pool toy? (Just for your own mental wellbeing imagine that with all the boys. I promise it will be a great experience of cuteness.) Also the smol paddling on the pool noodles. Legendary material. 

Hwa strikes me as one of those people who would simply dunk their heads into the water just because they are in it. Even if they are in hip deep water he would simply splash his head to feel fresh. It is a part of swimming! Watch out or Hwa might think of splashing other members who are not as daring to get wet!!! Hwa swooping his hair back after dunking in though.. wow. What a sight. At most Hwa would splash people somewhat cutely, or simply break up water fights and try to make peace. Momhwa in action.

Seonghwa does strike me as the most basic swimmer of the team. He is the most casual at the pool, just doing his laps or floating about to observe what is going on. He may try to race some of the others, but besides that he is fairly steady in his energy levels. 

Sannie would probably jump and or dive into the water so that boy is going to get entirely wet anyway. Still doesn’t like getting water splashed in his face though which makes him an easy target for teasing! 

Did you lose sight of San and can’t find him anywhere either in or outside of the pool? Check under water! This silly bean may randomly decide to just hang out down there, seeing how long he can hold his breath while sitting on the bottom as if it is the most ordinary thing in the world. He enjoys challenging the others to see who can hold their breaths the longest, but it is much harder to convince them of this than to race them. Then there are also the cheeky cheaters who sneakily try to catch some air while they think they can get away with it. 

Yunho ignores pool ladders on the way in. Honestly most of them do. He will first sit down with his legs in the pool and then hop in, or when feeling playful he will just jump in. Diving is a little scary to me sometimes, because with my height I feel like I hit the bottom more easily? Bumping into it can be so painful :(  

Yunho is a very big kid, full of energy. Sporty as he is, he would probably race Mingi and San and whoever else decides to join. 

Wooyoung? A little menace we all love. He would definitely start most of the splashing fights, but despite his enthusiasm and persistence he isn’t the best splasher in the pool! (Especially fear those big paddle hands on Yunho). So from time to time he too ends up having to retreat, squeaking his defeat. We all know that at this point he will already be planning for his revenge however haha. If Woo isn’t bothering San, San is bothering Woo. No WooSan? Time to bother other people hehe.. 

Eventually when Wooyoung begins to tire out, but doesn’t want to get out of the pool yet he simply koala clings to people. Being clung to can sometimes be fun and cozy, but can also be very tiring! Especially since he may constantly be asking for attention in some way shape or form, probably trying to tickle or press kisses onto his host. The little demon :) 

Speaking of this little demon? He is the person who would intentionally swallow some pool water when someone is looking, just to freak them out. 

The poor babies who try to keep their hair dry (RIP to all the dyed hair in chlorine pools yall) because they are bound to get DUNKED. One who dunks should prepare for the revenge though, which may make schemers more wary, but not back off entirely! Jongho, Yeosang and Hongjoong I am warning you.. Poor little wet puppy Yeosang though.. Boy just got dunked and is too stunned to take revenge for a minute or two. And when taking that revenge he risks getting even more splattered, so he might just try to hide from any oncoming attacks instead. Definitely would use meat shields!

I can already see Mingi jumping up out of the water with his hands on Yunho’s shoulders, trying to push him under water and vice versa. WHICH BRINGS ME TO THE NEXT SUBJECT; Riding on each other’s shoulders!!!!! Teams would quickly form and battles are bound to begin. Which team will remain standing the longest? Something tells me Wooyoung and Yeosang would make a shockingly sturdy team! 

Hongjoong is on team Yeosang about swimming. He would probably prefer to sit on the side to read his book rather than swim. There is no chance the other members would leave him alone on the subject though, and even gets splashed all the way from the pool. Hongie gets dragged into the pool activities eventually, and I sure hope for this baby that they are not all hanging out in the deeper pools, cuz this man is smol. 100% team why did I get in the pool, and stunned at how splashed, dunked and wet he is. Poor captain definitely tries to defend himself, but I am not so sure there is any way to win this for him unless he gets to team up with others. He would absolutely revel in getting his revenge though, oh fear this little man’s powers. In the end he may be the biggest shiverer, perhaps with Woo.

The members would also absolutely not shy away from pushing or even yeeting the others into the pool. Oh the screams, how they would be music to my ears hahaha. 

Outside of the pool I think all of them would be wearing sunglasses at one point or another. Why resist the fun of stealing other people their sunglasses to try them on or tease them? “No Woo you’ll get them wet!” Someone to Woo, probably. Yunho wearing multiple sunglasses all at once and making faces with them. When they run and try to get their glasses back Hongie, Hwa, Yeo or Jongho would immediately scold them “No running by a pool!”. “Don’t you drop them!” the sunglass owners may shout, to which the others react “Someone has different priorities” hahaha. Sannie would eventually steal the sunglasses back and return them to their rightful owners. 

At the end of the day, they would all look incredibly breathtaking. And now I would like to put the image of them in those cute little arm floaties in your mind. You’re welcome <3

[jooheonspinky]

Bump in the Night

Characters: Mingi and Female Reader

Genre: Thriller!au, Paranormal!au, 2-sentence spooky story

Word count: 3.8K

Synopsis: Moving out and living alone sounded great…until it's time for bed.

Warnings: description of a demon, descriptin of sleep paralysis, mention of angels, heaven and hell, but no specification to any religions, OC is afraid of the dark.

A/N: Here’s a little thriller to get the upcoming spooky month started. Enjoy!

❦ ════ •⊰❂⊱• ════ ❦

Nearly every night, as far as I can remember, a dark shadow enters my room.

❦ ════ •⊰❂⊱• ════ ❦

I inhale deeply, then exhale slowly, the breaths stuttering with the fear I am trying so hard to silence. I draw the comforter higher beneath my chin, my fingers clutching desperately tight to the material even as my palms grow slick with sweat.

“It’s ok. I’m ok. It’s ok,” I chant through slightly chattering teeth. “I can do this.”

But I wonder if I really can even as my heart betrays me with its wild thrums within my chest. I have to get some sleep, though. A night of rejuvenating deep sleep is what I need to clear my head. Plus, I am an adult.  Adults don’t sleep with a nightlight on…right?

This is turning out to be a terrible start to my first night alone at my own place. I am twenty-three and have finally decided it’s time to move out and live by myself. My parents had insisted I stay, that there really was no reason for me to leave, but I  felt I was ready. Now, though, as I lay here trembling, I am not sure I have made the best decision.

It isn’t like moving out has brought on this fear so suddenly. No. This fear of the dark is something I have lived with for quite some time. As far back as I can remember, actually. It started at a young age, maybe 10, when I had my first episode of sleep paralysis. It was petrifying not being in control of my body, especially when I just knew there was something there across the room, merely staring at me through the darkness. 

Though it didn’t happen every night, I never knew when it would happen, which brought on anxiety every time it was time for bed. I did all I could to delay lights out, to the point that my parents recommended I sleep with a nightlight. It helped. Not always, since I was aware that the small light did not illuminate every dark corner of my room, but it helped enough, along with the fact that my parents were not too far from me, close enough that I knew they would rescue me if I screamed.

But tonight? Tonight is my first night alone. I am already tucked in my bed debating on trying out sleeping with no light when I notice my door is cracked open a smidge. In my haste to get through my first night, I didn’t realize I hadn’t shut the door completely. The pink glow of my night light does not reach all the way to the door, my mind already beginning to conjure up a humanoid shape peering in through the sliver between the door and the door frame.

“It’s not real,” I whisper shakily to myself.

My hand trembles as I yank the comforter away so I can hurriedly run and shut the door, but it instantly halts as I am reminded of the monster under the bed. Surely once my feet touch the floor, a thin knobby hand will yank me into the void beneath the bed. 

“Shit,” I breathe in frustration, feeling helpless.

I feel like a hostage in my own bed, the fear clutching onto me and making it impossible to do anything to shake it off. Perhaps if I jump, dash to the door and close it and then dive back into the bed, I’d be safe from the-.

Zmmph!

The lights have gone out. A scream lodges in my throat as I am engulfed in a thick and heavy darkness. I look to my right at my digital alarm clock just to confirm what I already know as I try to swallow down my panic. The soft blue numbers are nowhere to be found, but there is a muted orange glow around my curtained window that provides barely any illumination into my room. 

Great. It’s just my place that has lost power.

I turn my attention straight ahead, eyes the size of saucers, as I stare at the area where I know the door is. Squinting my eyes as they adjust to the darkness, I startle, caught off guard as I notice the figure I thought I had imagined earlier…is actually still there.

It is tall, almost reaching the top of the door frame. Its hair is curly, but I can’t make out any distinct features. My body is abuzz with utter fear as the creak of the hinges seems deafeningly loud in the extreme silence as the door begins to slowly open wider. My heart nearly drops to the pit of my stomach as the entity begins to enter the room. I let out a small gasp while my eyes follow it up, up, up as I try to focus on the face hovering so close to the ceiling of my room.

The figure stands there, staring in my direction, but not for long. Soon he is silently inching his way closer and closer to me. By now, I am paralyzed with terror and am no longer able to move my limbs. As it approaches my bed, I am beyond petrified to the point that I can’t bring myself even to whisper, much less scream. Time seems to be going in slow motion, yet fast at the same time. Before I know it, he has reached the edge of my bed, near my left hip. I hadn’t noticed before, but now that my eyes have adjusted to the darkness, I can see he has a weapon in his left hand. It looks like a machete. My breathing becomes heavy as hysteria begins to take hold of me. I shut my eyes when it starts to raise the machete over its head as if it is going to swing it down and stab me.

If he is going to kill me, I rather not see it happening.

There is nothing else I can do as the rest of my body is still not responding. I cannot scream. I cannot fight back. All I can do is breathe and move my eyes. I hold my breath, my heart pounding like thunder in my ears as I wait for my death to come. By now, I’m panting, my fear pushed past its limits, and I feel lightheaded with it.

I don’t know how much time has passed before I realize I feel no pain. I’m still alive. I unhurriedly open my eyes and look up to find it was no longer there! Swallowing thickly, I look around even as I feel tingling in my arms and legs. I sense my body being released from its paralyzing hold and shake my hands to test them out. They move. Slowly I sit up, leaning over just as my hearing rushes back into existence. Gasping, I  look over the edge of my bed and clutch my heart at the sight. 

Two figures are engaged in a struggle. They are two beings darker than the darkness of my bedroom floor, rolling around as each tries to gain control of the other. I am unable to make out anything aside from arms swinging and legs flailing as a shorter shadow straddles the taller one. Breath heavy, the one above opens something with one free hand from a necklace I had not noticed around his neck. For the first time, I am able to see the creature fighting to buck the other from atop him as a golden light fills the space. 

My hand flies to my mouth to cover a horrified scream from bubbling from my throat. Black eyes with an iridescent green sheen stare at the other with a hatred so pure it draws a shiver from me. It has no nose beneath those terrifying eyes, but its mouth is a ragged slash across the lower half of its face. It is like a grotesque version of The Joker. Yellow jagged teeth snap threateningly until the other begins to murmur.

Now there is anger and just a hint of fear mixed in as the dark shadow that has tormented me all my life writhes even more in hopes of getting free. The words, a language I have never heard, grow louder and louder as the light becomes brighter. Soon the light is too bright; I have to squeeze my eyes shut to block it from blinding me. An unearthly scream reverberates throughout the room, and I move my hands from my mouth to my ears. The ear-piercing sound wriggles through my fingers; the sound muffled only slightly as I draw my knees up and press my forehead into them as if that will help keep the light and sound away from me. 

“Y/N?”

A deep voice cuts through my fear, bringing me to slowly drop my hands and lift my face. I blink a few times blearily, realizing my lights are back on, my room glowing softly with the soothing pink light I am used to sleeping in. As my eyes travel up to find the voice that has spoken, I’m unable to hold back a gasp as my gaze lands on the face of the one that had been chanting moments before.

I scramble back on the bed, trying to put as much distance between him and me as I can. Wincing when my back smacks into the wall, I try to hold back a whimper.

“Please don’t hurt me,” I whisper with a sob.

His eyes soften as he reaches out for me, his hand dropping when he sees the terror in my eyes. 

“I’m sorry.” His lips press together tightly in shame, head shaking slowly as if he really feels pained. “I’m sorry I couldn’t get here sooner. I promised I would never hurt you, but not being here on time...well, that caused you hurt, didn’t it?” 

I sniffle, wiping at the tears that had unknowingly wet my cheeks.

Gathering my courage, I ask, “Are-are you the demon monster that lives under my bed?”

He chuckles, tickled at my words. I frown, my lips turning down.

“Ah, apologies,” he sobers up. “It’s just funny to be thought of as a demon or a monster.”

I take a moment to look at him now that he does not appear actually to be trying to kill me. His hair, close-shaven at the back with mahogany tufts that skim the tops of his ears, the tips tinted a forest green, is parted just off center. Some strands fall just beside his eyes, those eyes that were so intense yet held a kindness in them. His pink-tinted lips are slightly upturned, offering a softer look to his face. He wears all-black clothing, to help him blend with the surrounding darkness all the better, I’m sure. This brings an almost glowing warmth to the tawny tone of his skin.

“Well, if you are neither of those,” I push. “Then what are you? Some sort of guardian or something?”

He shrugs, nodding as he allows, “Something like that.” Extending his hand, he offers, “My name is Song Mingi.”

I hesitantly slip my hand into his, marveling at the size difference, and introduce myself as well.

“It’s good to officially meet you,” he smiles, and I watch his eyes slip shut into little half moons while his nose crinkles as if he genuinely is happy to meet me. Shoulders slumping, as he tilts his head to the side, he adds, “Though this was never supposed to happen.”

“Oh,” I stare on awkwardly as I slide my hand from his. “Will you be in trouble because of me?”

“Well…” he shrugs but doesn’t answer. “I should get back on guard, though. There are still a few hours of darkness left this night.”

He stands, and I feel the fear creeping back in. The image of that thing that had been in my room was still fresh in my mind’s eye. Not wanting him to leave me alone just yet, I shoot out another question.

“Wait.” He pauses to look down at me. But, Jesus, he was tall, and I have to crane my neck in order to stare at his gorgeous face. “That thing. What was that?” Mingi eyes me, and I can just about see the internal dialogue he is having with himself about how much actually to divulge. Finally, he sits back down, and I smile with relief.

“That was a demon,” he relents. My eyes widen at the admission. One thing is to think that’s what it is. It is another thing completely to hear that what you have suspected all these years to be true… is real. “I’ve been charged with capturing him since about two or so years back.”

“What?” My eyes widen even more. “Really?”

“Yes. He’s proven to be a bit sneaky. Never stepping past your doorway before, at least not on my watch, so it’s been difficult for me to get at him. The guy I replaced wasn’t so lucky the one time it did come close to you.”

My brows draw down sharply, a vague memory tickling my mind. The images are too difficult to grasp onto, which doesn’t surprise me. It’s not often I’m able to remember what’s going on when I’m in sleep paralysis.

 “Someone else had been watching over me before you?”

“Yes,” he sighs. “I wasn’t given all the details, but what I know is that one night, the demon came in and there was a struggle and our guy was badly hurt.”

“Oh no!” I gasp, guilt washing over me.

“He did have time to call for back up, but as soon as they arrived, the demon left. The recruit was injured pretty badly.”

“He survived?” I breathe out, sagging with relief.

Mingi nods, “But he was reassigned and I’ve never met him. I just took up his post and have been watching over you since. I was quite surprised after all that time, he got ballsy again and managed to get as close as he did tonight. I’m starting to think the incident earlier was a diversion so he could finally take hold of your soul. His impatience got the better of him.”

“My soul?” I ask, my hand reaching up to clutch at my heart as if that would help keep my soul safely tucked inside me. “It wanted my soul?”

“Yes,” Mingi sighs. “It’s what they all want. Another soul to add to hell and its army. My job is to prevent that from happening.”

“Oh, I see,” I murmur, a bit overwhelmed by the information. “So you aren’t human, huh?”

“I used to be,” he smiles sadly. “But no. Not anymore.” “Are you an angel?” I probe some more. Mingi laughs, a boisterous boyish sound that has his shoulders shaking and him curling into himself. “What?” I query, seriously.

His laughter continues, and it’s not long before my own lips are trembling with the need to join in, though I don’t understand what is so funny. I finally let a giggle slip, and Mingi dries non-existent tears from the corner of his eyes.

“I’m sorry,” he chuckles. “I’m not an angel. But!” He holds up a finger just as my mouth opens to ask another question. “I am tasked with capturing demons, and I do hand them over to an angel who sends them back to hell.”

“Wow,” I breathe as I try and wrap my brain around what he’s telling me. “So are you stuck in the in-between or purgatory or whatever it is?” Mingi’s face tightens a bit, a hint of sadness touching those dark eyes of his. It hurts to see it, and I quickly try and backtrack. “I’m sorry. You don’t have to answer that. It’s none of my business….”

“No, it’s ok,” he swallows hard. “Honestly, I haven’t spoken with another living human in such a long time. It’s not...a common thing for humans to see us, so it’s a bit refreshing being able to talk with someone again.”

“Seriously?”

“Yeah, seriously.” Mingi pauses, and just when I think he’s not really going to answer my question, he tells me, “My human life was a long time ago, so I won’t go into details about it. I’ll just say I was not bad enough to go to hell, but not good enough to enter Heaven. My human skills were something that gave the good guys a one-up, so I was recruited with the promise I would be given a place in Heaven, a chance to see my family again...if I helped rid Earth of demons. So here I am...and here I’ll continue to be until I am told I have redeemed myself.”

“Well, thank you,” I smile at him. He raises a questioning brow at me. “For protecting us. For protecting me and capturing that thing.”

I lean forward and hug him. Mingi stiffens in my arms but then reciprocates the gesture. I hear him let out a breath of air as if this has all been such a weight on his shoulders, and he is glad to finally have someone to talk to about it, and I can’t help but hug him tighter. 

“I don’t do this for the gratification,” he starts as he pulls away. “But I have to say; it feels really good to hear someone thank me. It makes me feel like I’ve really made a difference.” I feel my cheeks warm up and clear my throat. “Well,” his palms smack his thighs. “I should really get back on post. You never know when you can be attacked again.”

Mingi stands, and once more, you feel the dread build, the idea of being alone, especially now that you knew what you saw was not your imagination making your heart race erratically in your chest. It was too much, just way too much for your mind to handle alone.

“Please stay,” you plead. “If you still have to guard me, why can’t you just stay here...in the bed...closer to me?  I’m pretty certain it’s much more comfortable a place than wherever it is that you watch from.” Mingi stares down at me, his jaw clenching as he mulls it over. “Please?” you pout cutely at him and know you have won when he sighs heavily.

“Fine,” he concedes. I yip excitedly, causing him to grumble. “But just this once since you’ve been through it tonight.”

I happily wriggle back down so my head is on my pillow and my comforter is over me. Mingi walks around to the other side of the bed, and my eyes follow his sleek form until he sits on the bed, taking a moment to remove his shoes before lying beside me. I look down the length of his body to see his feet nearly reaching the end of the bed.

“Sheesh, how tall are you even!” I muse aloud. Mingi’s laughter fills the room again. Covering my face, my words come out muffled as I groan. “Ugh, did I actually say that out loud?”

“Yeah,” he chuckles. 

“Just ignore me,” I sigh. “I blurt stuff out when I’m anxious.”

Mingi shifts to his side, his hand beneath his cheek as he looks up at me. “What do you have to be anxious about? I’m here. Nothing is going to get you.”

I shift to lie down on my side as well and face him.

“Are you sure about that?” I shoot back, a bit of the fear still lingering within me. He nods without hesitation, offering a wide reassuring smile. My heart melts, and I stare back, mumbling, “Why are you so fine?!” His eyes widen just the slightest bit, taken aback by my statement. A hint of color touches his cheek, and I watch his mouth open to speak. I quickly interrupt, embarrassed by my bluntness. “Oh no, I did it again. Just ignore me.”

I curl my pillow over my head as if it could shield me from making any more unnecessary commentary. Mingi gently pushes the pillow away and takes one of my hands in his turning it palm up. 

“Thank you for the compliment,” he chuckles and then blows a puff of air towards the center of my hand.

Suddenly, a necklace similar to the one he’s wearing appears out of thin air. An opalescent crystal vial attached to a leather strap is dangling from my fingers.

“Wha- How did you do that?!” I stammer incredulously.

The bed shakes slightly with Mingi’s laughter. “Tricks of the trade.”

“What is this?” I ask, and we both sit up. “I mean, I know it’s a necklace, but I know it’s not just a necklace.”

“You’re right. That is an Angel Aura quartz. It holds peaceful cleansing energy and is where we trap the demons. I use this to transport the prisoner to the Angel, and he handles it from there. This one is empty, though, so don’t worry.” He watches as I slip it over my head. The stone stops just between my breasts. And it could be persuasion from his words, but almost instantly, I feel my nerves settle, and my body completely relax. I watch as all humor leaves his face as he stares at me intensely. “Whenever you need me, any emergency, just hold it in your hand and say my name. I’ll be here in a blink of an eye. You got that?”

I nod vigorously, cradling the beautiful crystal vial in my hand.

“Thank you,” I smile, up at him, unshed tears glossing over my eyes.

“You’re welcome,” Mingi winks at me. “Now, why don’t you close your eyes and go to sleep? You are safe now, so you don’t need to feel worried or scared.”

“You promise you'll stay?” I  press my lips together in silent prayer.

“I do.” He encourages me to lie down again. “At least until sun up. I have to go and see the Boss.”

I nestle into my pillow; my comforter wrapped snuggly around me. Mingi settles into the space beside me with his hands folded behind his head. Though he is a stranger, I feel comfortable and safe even for the first time in forever.

“Mingi?” I murmur.

“Mmm?”

“Can you tell me what it was like for you… before… before you were recruited as demon capturer?”

The exhaustion was starting to pull me down, my words difficult to form.

“Demon capturer?” he laughs. “That’s one way to put it. Well, It was the early 80’s, and I….”

❦ ════ •⊰❂⊱• ════ ❦

Stretching, I sit up in bed and then glance around. The spot beside me is empty, and for the briefest of moments, I think to myself that last night surely had to have been a dream, but as I stand, something bumps against my chest. I look down to see the necklace with the crystal vial hanging from my neck. I freeze. 

Had that all actually been real?

Wrapping my fingers around the vial, I close my eyes and call out, “Song Mingi.”

As promised, he appears, a knowing smirk on his face.

Last night had not been a dream at all.

Nearly every night, as far as I can remember, a dark shadow enters my room.

Unbeknownst to me, the shadow under the bed I was also terrified of was protecting me from the demon intent on taking my soul.

❦ ════ •⊰❂⊱• ════ ❦

A/N: Thank you for taking time out of your day to read my work. I hope you enjoyed it. Please feel free to leave a comment, like and reblog.

[kpoplilpotato]

Lost Soul (xiii) ☯︎︎ (ATEEZ)

Lost Soul (xiii) ☯︎︎ (ATEEZ)

PAIRING: ??? x Ji Ah

WORD COUNT: 1.8k

GENRE: fantasy+pirate au; romance; mystery; adventure; action; angst; gore; mythology

<- 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑜𝑢𝑠 // 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑙𝑖𝑠𝑡 \\ 𝑛𝑒𝑥𝑡 ->

You stared at the black flags that had a hint of red and yellow on it. You squint your eyes to make sure you’re not hallucinating things. You quickly blinked your eyes to make sure. As you realised it was still there, your heart dropped. It was coming right for you guys, you have to do something or you all will die. 

You finally got the courage and ran out of the sickbay all the way to the captain’s cabin as you barged in. You saw Mingi, Hongjoong, Yunho, and Changbin look at you, shocked by the sudden barging in. “Ji Ah? What’s—” You interrupted Changbin. “Slymore! There ship! It’s coming right for us from the north!” You yelled, making their eyes widen as they quickly rushed out of the room to the forecastle deck. “Mingi, ring the bells and blow out all the candles!” You heard Hongjoong say as he made his way to the helm as he grabbed ahold of the wheel. 

Mingi already left as bells began to ring as you heard quick footsteps on the main deck as you saw the crew members come out from their cabins. You turned around to Changbin which was still there standing next to Yunho. “Hyung! What should I do?” You asked Changbin, watching as his gaze darkened as he looked into the distance. “Hurry and get to the sickbay! If anyone is wounded goes in there, be quick to aid them.” He said before he crept down the forecastle stairs onto the main deck. 

You watched him leave as you were stuck in place from horror until you felt someone walk up behind you, you felt them bend down as you felt their hot breath against your ear sending shivers down your spine in the cooling night. 

“Here, take this.” You heard Yunho whisper in your ear as he handed you a musket. It was quite heavy then how it looks but you managed to hold it up. “If anything happens, just shoot whomever barges through the door. If there’s no knock that is, that’s how you’ll know. Alright?” He whispered before he stood up completely. You nod your head as you look up at him. 

“Now hurry and make your way to the sickbay before they fire at us.” He said as his once soft and calm expression turned into a dark and dangerous one. You let out a deep sigh as you finally moved your legs even though they’re shaking across the forecastle deck to the stairs. 

You held against the railing as you slowly made your way down to the main deck as you watched the powder-monkeys scatter across the deck making their way to the starboard side of the ship. As you made your way towards the cabin, you suddenly heard a cannon shot as the ship tilted to its left as yells and wood being smashed through were heard around.

You had fallen to the ground from the sudden impact. “Fire!” You had looked up and saw Mingi standing in front of you as suddenly cannons from your side had gone off. The ship rocks to the side from sudden force before the smell of gunpowder fills the air as it filled your lungs making you cough from the unpleasant filling as your eyes begin to water. 

You stood up as you struggled as another cannon hit the side of Treasure as screams of injured and wooden planks being snapped and broken was heard. You stumbled over yourself as you continued your way to the sickbay. You struggled to see through the thick white smoke that covered most of the deck. You held your hands out as you tried your best to walk through it and not bump into anyone or anything.

Look out!

You heard something whispered, without questioning, you quickly dived down to the deck. Where you were just standing was completely in abyss now; the wooden deck has a new hole in it as wooden chips lunged in your direction as you quickly covered your face. 

They graze across your bare skin and your clothes, leaving small scratches for memories of this moment, but you don’t have time to stay there and worry about this, you need to hurry and get to the sickbay and hide.

You quickly stood up as you grabbed on the rope that was from the rigging of the mainmast. You used it to help you stand up straight and make your way to the sickbay without falling. “Get ready for impact!” You heard Mingi yell over the commotion. You furrow your eyebrows as you look to the side and see Slymore’s ship coming right for you guys.

The ship hit the starboard side as you lost grip of the rope and fell hard onto the deck as you rolled as the ship almost tipped over and everything on deck fell into the water. Lucky for you, you grabbed the railing just in time and someone had grabbed you from the back. You looked and saw Wooyoung standing there with a dark gaze. 

He quickly pulled you back up on your feet before letting you go. “Why aren’t you at the sickbay yet!” He yelled before grabbing you by the arm as he pulled you against the mizzenmast. You were breathing heavily from shock before he had brought out his musket and aimed behind you before hearing him shoot it.

You turned your head around as you saw one of the crew members of the other ship fall to their death as the crimson liquid pooled around them. You then looked back at Wooyoung with wide eyes. “Answer me kid!” He yelled before another shot was heard as you both turned to see a foe fall off the railing of the boat. “Bullseye Yunho!” He yelled with a smirk. You furrowed your eyebrows on why he sounds so enthusiastic for killing someone. 

“They’ve boarded!” You heard someone yell as you felt Wooyoung’s body go stiff. He then turned back to you with that same dark gaze as it startled you. “Do you have no sense of direction?” He asked as he lifted an eyebrow. You looked around and noticed you’re still on the other side of the ship. How did I remain in the same spot? You thought. “I-” He cut you off as he lifted his musket and shot once again. “Let’s get going before you get killed or even get me killed in the process.” He said and dragged you towards the direction of the sickbay.

He put his musket down as he pulled his cutlass out and fought any enemy that made their way on the ship to only find their doom. Blood splattered across Wooyoung and somewhat on you as he slashed his cutlass in the air against the enemies that dare come close to him. 

Another cannon explosion was heard as it had hit the top of the foremast just ahead as the chain shot wrapped around it, crashing it to the ground, hitting a couple of the crew mates. You gasped as you heard Wooyoung curse under his breath.

You wonder if you will actually die out here as you heard cannon shots, muskets shots, and also the sound of metal from cutlasses hitting each other filled the air with the smoke of gunpowder. Wooyoung turned and looked at you as he spoke, “You need to do something with that musket you got, stop being just a-” You ignored him as you watched as one of the Slymore guard come out of nowhere with his cutlass in the air and was ready to slash it down but you were quick. You lifted up the musket before aiming it at his head before you placed your finger on the trigger. “What are you doing!?” You heard Wooyoung say as he reached for his cutlass, but you quickly shot.

Wooyoung turned around hastily as he saw the guard tumble to his death as you watch his soul leave his body, his once tan skin slowly fade into a much paler tone. He turned back around and stared at you and you could have sworn you saw a smirk on his face as he let out an amused chuckle before he continued to run with you to the sickbay. 

After a while you finally reached the front of the water vessel. He opened the door and pushed you inside before the ship heeled over to the side causing you and Wooyoung to lose balance as you dropped the matchlock firing mechanism out of your hand as it fell to the ground. You groaned before you sat up and turned to look at Wooyoung and ask if he was alright.

As you did you saw another guard appear and hold a broadsword up. “Wooyoung look out!” You screamed. Wooyoung turned around before he kicked the guard down as he slashed the sword down making little contact with Wooyoung as the tip only grazed across his shoulder. You gasped as you picked up the musket and stood up. You aimed it at the guard as some aura came over you as you looked him in the face.

The male looked at you with fear as you glared at him with amber eyes as anger took over you. You shot and hit him in the middle of his head. You dropped the musket as that aura quickly disappeared, making you feel nauseous and grab your head as you walked over to Wooyoung. The dizziness went away as your eyes faded back into your natural dark brown colour.

“Are you okay hyung!?” You asked. He nodded his head as he gestured for you to move. “I’m fine.” He got up as he looked at you with a more serious face than before. “Stay here and help San and Seonghwa with injured people, understand?” He said sternly. You nod your head. “What about you? Will you be fine with that-” “I’ll be fine.” He interrupted you before he picked up the musket you dropped. “Here. Stay here and protect San and Seonghwa. Don’t need the most needed crew members dead by the end of this.” He said before he walked away.

“Get ready for a come around!” Mingi shouted. You furrowed your eyebrows at the phrase until you felt the ship full way around with the wind as you felt it hit the other ship causing you to lose balance from the strong force. “They're getting thrown overboard! Quick, fire the explosives!” He yelled. 

Not a second to spare, you heard the loud explosives go off as wails in pain, wood being cracked, and the haze of fire being heard within the miles of this sea battle.

You looked out the window as Hongjoong steered away from the ship that was now burning to the Hell that awaits them and drowned to Davy Jones Locker, to never be seen again.

<- 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑜𝑢𝑠 // 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑙𝑖𝑠𝑡 \\ 𝑛𝑒𝑥𝑡 ->

[chaseatinydream]

pirate king (32) || atz

You’re back on the ship.

“So,” Hongjoong eyes Jongho with an unamused look, “You got so drunk yesterday night you tried to ruin the eyes of everyone on board, went diving into the ocean butt naked and made Seonghwa save you, then drank a bottle of my finest gin and caused an explosion in town.”

Jongho swallows quietly. Yunho had taken one look at the still dead drunk maknae and tossed him into the sea himself. The poor battlemaster had awoken splashing furiously in the sea and had ended up with a crab in his hair that refused to let go.

You would have pitied him, but after all the nonsense he’d put you through, the vindictive part of you whispers that he kind of deserved it.

Mingi groans as he mentally calculates the cost of damages he’ll have to pay on behalf of the crew. “Oh my god… maybe we should just sell Jongho off to pay for it.”

The younger battlemaster looks up in horror.

“Of course we should!” San calls from the door of the sickbay, shaking his head in disappointment, as if he himself didn’t almost do the exact same thing yesterday night. Seonghwa nods in agreement from the galley stairs.

“We’ll cut down a lot on our food expenses. Half the barrel of apples went missing again.”

Jongho splutters in protest.

“But who would want to buy Jongho?” Wooyoung calls from the rigging on the main mast, swinging back and forth in the wind. Hongjoong scratches his chin thoughtfully as he ponders this, much to Jongho’s shock. They’re actually considering this?

“I was drunk!” Jongho tries to explain himself, but Yunho snorts derisively, shaking his head in mock disappointment with his arms crossed.

“Yes, everyone could see that.”

“You were trying to make out with the main mast, you know.” You remind Yunho quietly, and he pretends not to have heard you.

“But… because we love you so much, we’ll keep you.” Hongjoong finally sighs dramatically, and it’s only then that Jongho realises everyone has been playing him the whole time, all hiding grins behind their hands. The maknae scowls.

He’s been played.

“Hey, captain!” Jongho calls, and Hongjoong stops laughing to look at him curiously.

“Yes?”

“Remember that time you got drunk and-” He’s cut off when your captain leaps at him, pinning him to the ground, one hand over his mouth to prevent him from talking anymore.

“Shut up!”

You shake your head, turning to San. At this point, you’re not even surprised at what is happening. “I’ll be in the sickbay if you need me.”

Your master raises an eyebrow as he watches Yunho tackle both Jongho and Hongjoong in a flying hug, sending the two crashing to the ground and rolling across the deck. “Do you have something to do?”

“I’m going to kill you if you every speak a word about it again!” Hongjoong screeches and Jongho bites the hand over his mouth. “Yunho, get off me! Jongho! How dare you bite your captain-”

“I was thinking about reading the book I got in town.” You hold up the book the shopkeeper had given you earlier. San glances at the cover even as Wooyoung swings down from the rigging onto the human pile with a crash.

“Ow! Poo Young, what the hell?”

“Shut up, Yun Hoe!”

“That’s a kid’s nursery story. I think I read that when I was five.” The healer tells you in a completely deadpan tone and you hold the book protectively to you, eyeing San with puffed cheeks.

“Are you calling me childish?”

“I didn’t say anything.” Your master shrugs, but you recognise the distinctly teasing glint in your eye. Over his shoulder, you see Seonghwa shake his head at the lack of maturity and decorum of the rest of his crew… and jumps right into the thrashing pile.

“Seonghwa-hyung!” You yelp in shock, but you’ve already lost him in the mass of flailing limbs and swinging hands.

“Go read your book.” San steers you by the shoulders and pushes you in the direction of the sickbay. “Leave the immaturity to me.”

You’re throw him a look. “You’re just as immature as they are, master.”

San gasps dramatically at your words, one hand comes up to his chest in a betrayed expression, all with his usual deadpan expression. “How could you? That tongue of yours, Chin Hae.”

Then he turns and jumps into the pile as well.

You roll your eyes and make your way to the sickbay, pushing open the door and stepping inside. When the door closes behind you, the shouts and shrieks from the main deck thankfully die down, leaving you in peace and silence.

You make your way over to the door in the back, stepping into the bedroom you share with San. The smell of rosemary and honey fills the air and you wonder what new concoction San is experimenting with this time.

“Probably just wanted an excuse to eat the honey.” You mutter to yourself, seating yourself on your bed. The bed opposite yours is unmade, as usual. San didn’t want to get up this morning, so you had to bring a bucket to his bedside for him to puke into.

You study the hand drawn rendition of the mermaid on the cover, startlingly lifelike with eyes that one moment seem as blue as a calm sea, but in the next seem to be a choppy grey that reminds you of stormy waves. You rub your eyes a little, wondering whether you’ve been getting enough sleep. First the old man, then this?

“I must be going crazy.” You mutter to yourself, turning the page. There’s a small dedication written on it in emerald green ink.

For the Queen of the Seas.

You snort at that. The Queen of the Seas? Who is that? The only person you know with any such title is your captain, who you know is regarded as the Pirate King by the Royal Navy and pirates all over the world. Is there a Pirate Queen now? And why would anyone write a child’s storybook for a pirate?

You shake your head and begin reading.

Once upon a time, when the world was first breathed into life by the word of the Creator, it was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the presence of the Creator hovered over the waters.

You frown, checking the title. It says the Little Mermaid, right? This… doesn’t really seem like a children’s book.

“Let the waters of the world be gathered together, so that the land and seas may be separated.” The Creator declared, and from there the waters gathered into one, and dry land was formed. Life was breathed into the world, and the essence of the sea spread throughout the waters, bringing many beings into life.

You are pretty sure this isn’t the same children’s storybook Yeosang and San were talking about, but you continue reading it anyway.

From the sea foam a mermaid was born, without a name, as all those of the sea came of the same essence. She rose from the sea, and for aeons it was at her beck and call. Over time, many creatures such as the hafgufa were created of the same essence and the oceans were filled with life that flourished for millenia.

This story is pretty interesting for a mere fairy tale.

One day, the mermaid discovered a mortal human, unconscious, on the beach of a deserted island. The humans had been created when the Creator had combined the water of the sea and dirt of the land to form clay, the Creator sculpted the human and breathed the breath of life into the human’s lungs, the human became a living being, an immortal soul dwelling within its mortal body.

An immortal soul dwelling within its mortal body. That reminds you of something similar you’ve heard before…

A jewel resting in a jar of clay.

A shiver runs up your spine and you quickly flip to the next page to get the thoughts out of your mind.

Each mortal was unique, beautifully and wonderfully made by the Creator. They flourished on the earth from which they had come, they were fruitful and increased in number, filling the earth and subduing it. Confined to the sea, this was the first human the mermaid had come across.

Okay. This story is starting to scare you a little. This is nothing like what you had expected.

The mermaid breathed the essence of the ocean into the human’s lungs and the human was brought back from the brink of death. Wanting to know the name of his saviour, the human asked for it. The mermaid had no name, so she told the human what she was, but the human could not repeat it to her. For the first time in her existence, the mermaid strongly desired a name.

You can relate to this story a little. You, too, had no name when you had first awoken. You can emphasize with the mermaid, knowing that even though a name is not something you physically need, you still long for it with all your heart. It reaches past your physical desires to something deeper within, right to your very soul.

The mermaid gave him both a blessing and a gift of immense value. When she left him, she promised that one day in the future, she would tell him her name.

Your mouth falls open. Did the mermaid get a name, just like you did?

The mermaid called upon the Creator, whose breath had formed her essence. The Creator told her that she could not be bestowed a name worthy of her because she was merely a conscience of the oceans and did not have an everlasting soul as the mortals did. One day when she perished, she would merely return to the sea foam from which she had come.

“That’s so sad.” You mutter to yourself, turning the page. “Isn’t this supposed to be some kids’ story? It’s way too depressing.”

The mermaid decided to obtain a soul. Travelling into the most dangerous parts of the ocean to find the sea witch, she learned that to obtain a soul, she must fall in love with a human and become one with him, so that part of his soul would flow into her and she would become a human.

“That… seems pretty okay, actually.” You mumble to yourself. All you need for a soul is to marry someone?

The sea witch offered to give her a pair of legs to dance upon land like no human ever could in exchange for her memories. She agreed, but the sea witch warned her that if she did not fall in love with a man before her legs crumbled into soil, she would return to seafoam as she did not belong on land and from there on would cease to exist.

Horror sinks in your chest.

“What?”

You desperately read the last line on the page.

The little mermaid agreed.

You flip to the next page, but to your shock, the last few pages have been torn out, except for a single blank page. There is no more story. You know that it’s stupid that you’ve become attached to a nameless character so fast, but you need to know what happened to her!

Turning the last page, you see something written in green ink.

I will be with you every step of the way.

Your eyes fly wide and you grip the necklace around your neck, fingers shaking. The man in your dreams. He had somehow given you this book. What? How? Why? He was real. It wasn’t just a dream. Your heart is thundering at a speed that should scare you, but you can’t bring yourself to care right now.

You laugh a little unsteadily, thousands and millions of thoughts speeding through your mind.

Then you remember the knife in your chest and you pause.

Do you really want to find him?

You see the words written beneath.

Come to Eleuthera.

Yes. You need your memories back.

With that, you dash out of the sickbay, back onto the main deck, where the crew is still wrestling about. Your eyes catch your captain trying to escape from the bottom of the human pile, but you don’t have the sanity of mind to help him out. You shout his name.

“Captain!”

Hongjoong stills at the urgency in your voice, turning to look at you from beneath Yunho and San. Your master and crew mate look similarly confused, but you ignore all of them, speaking directly to your captain.

“I need to go to Eleuthera!”