#nostalgics chapter d

[slippednsalto]

To: Jessie

My heart yearns for solid ground,

a light when darkness abounds,

and a haven to call home,

where my soul can freely roam.

You show me hope of that world,

hand in mine, solace offered.

With each time spent together,

may this warmth stay forever.

Date: Tue, 07/01/20XX 09:47 AM

[mizunoir]

It's D.Gray-Man's 20th birthday 🎉💖 Here's the page I've been working on for @dgm20thproject

Please check out the result of our work and love for this story and have a look at our zine! All thanks to the incredible Mods and wonderful contributors ;w;

[mcd-brainrot-hours]

i have no idea what possessed me to finish my drafts but something did and now i have finished a bunch of writing

[uhohbestie]

WE LOVE THIS!!!

Scar looks soooo tired and achy, and Grian looks like suuUUUCH A PIECE OF WORK. His expression is absolutely perfect. I absolutely love how you've rendered both of them- the gritty greyscale is such a perfect for this fic. You've captured the mood perfectly!

So glad you're enjoying the au!! plenty more where it came from >:D thank you for this, we love it!!

uhhhhh ya so this au is all I can think about. @uhohbestie how dare u two make my comfort block men angsty /j

[infizero]

big fan of how when you use certain items susie and ralsei have normal reactions while noelle is stuck in the important lore character nightmare dimension

[ID: screenshots of Deltarune item equip dialogue from the Wiki.

Puppet Scarf:

No way, that's creepy. [When attempting to equip it to Susie]

If I have to fight… [When equipping to Ralsei]

(Feels like guitar strings…) [When attempting to equip it to Noelle]

Java Cookie:

It says Guts! [Susie]

It says Fluffy... [Ralsei]

I... I can't read these symbols... [Noelle]

Devilsknife:

Let the games begin! [Susie]

It's too, um, evil. [Ralsei]

...? It smiled at me? [Noelle]

White Ribbon:

Nope. Not in 1st grade anymore. [Susie]

I said NO! C'mon already!. [In Chapter 2]

Um... D-do I look cute...? [Ralsei]

It's nice being dressed up... [In Chapter 2]

... feels familiar. [When equipping it to Noelle]

Dealmaker:

Money, that's what I need. [When equipping to Susie]

Two pairs of glasses? [When equipping to Ralsei]

(Seems... familiar?) [When equipping it to Noelle]

Twin Ribbon:

...it gets worse and worse. [Susie]

Try around my horns! [Ralsei]

...nostalgic, huh. [Noelle]

Silver Watch:

(Check Text) Maybe an expensive antique. Stuck before half-past noon.

End ID.]

like 😭 it's always her

[zarla-s]

We move forward, 'cause we can't go back...

It's the EIGHTH anniversary of Handplates, and the first one after I finished the comic back in July! I decided to dig up a very old wip that I never finished and finally do it. I've always loved WeMoveForward by The Midnight, and I think it applies not only to the comic itself but also this period after it... there's no way to go back to when I was doing it, only moving forward after it's done.

Even more appropriately, since I did this wip, these characters all moved forward even further... even as this sat in my files, they moved forward, in a sense. I don't know, the song gives me a sort of plaintive, longing, bittersweet feeling... it's hard to explain.

I had a very insistent voice in my head that always made me do a Handplates page over the years I was working on it, no matter what happened. I wasn't sure if that voice would ever stop, even when it's done, but it has! It's gotten quieter now, mostly only nagging me about other projects I should be working on (Defrag, the Ace Attorney/Frozen fic, web design, fic ideas, art ideas...) whenever I'm doing something, much like it did before I started the comic.

How I feel about Handplates finishing though is strange. At times it doesn't feel like it's over, even if I don't feel like I need to do another page. At other times I get sad thinking about it and I miss it, and other times I look back on it with amazement that I was able to do it. Sometimes I look back on it and think about what was happening in my life at that time, and sometimes when I look at it it's unreal and it's hard to believe I even did it, like someone else did the whole thing. It's like it's there but it's not, it's present but it isn't. It's a very strange feeling, it's hard to describe or pin down. I know it'll always be with me in some way, but it is strange to be able to focus so much attention on other things without that feeling of having to set aside a few days to do a page every two weeks... not bad or anything, but I'm not used to it still.

I don't know! When I read the comments on the last page a lot of them made me cry, especially those talking about how the comic had been their childhood, and now their childhood is over. It was sad to think that I had a part in something like that ending... but it ends for everyone, no matter what you do. We, you and me, everyone... we move forward, 'cause we can't go back. That line was so evocative for me that I even used it as a chapter title for the penultimate chapter on Comicfury.

I don't know, just nostalgic thoughts! I don't know if that's the right word for it... but thank you to all of you who read it and enjoyed it. Even now I hear from new people coming to it and reading through it again now that it's done. Even if it's finished, it's still new to people just finding it. It's still "living" in a sense. And thanks to those of you who stuck around even though it's done, I appreciate it. |D

(As a note, the Gaster ukagaka has a surprise if you boot him on the anniversary after seeing the brothers, if you haven't done that)

[index] [patreon]

[marvelmaniac715]

I probably shouldn’t write for Doctor Who, because this is an overplayed trope, but here’s what I want for a potential multi-season companion. Her name is Callie (short for Calypso, which means ‘she who conceals’ but that’s just a coincidence…) and, personality-wise, she’s practically a stereotypical companion at first. Smart, witty, cheerful, reacts to the TARDIS with a typical “it’s bigger on the inside” but when she says it it’s almost like she’s making fun of the past companions. Her eyes are similar to Clara Oswald’s, she has blonde curls like River Song, which she keeps in two plaits like Yasmin Khan, she smiles like Rose Tyler, and the Doctor has an overwhelming sense of deja vu. She’s not much of a hugger, which the Doctor respects, but the one time she does hug him after a particularly emotional moment, he swears he can hear two heartbeats. That’s not the only thing - her eyes seem kind, but if you really look into them, there’s an iciness there. She’ll often smile to herself, like she’s laughing at a private in joke. She’ll often make herself a soup which smells just like a soup that can only be made with ingredients native to Gallifrey, and during her adventures with the Doctor things go wrong more often. She’ll push the Doctor to be more selfish because “you can’t save everyone”, and she won’t tell him much about her childhood. But then, one day, Callie starts acting even more odd. She responds to a question with “I’ve mastered it”, and the Doctor discovers that her ringtone is Saxon’s theme from when he was Prime Minister (“I was just a kid when Saxon became Prime Minister, that tune’s really nostalgic for me…”), then the truth comes out - Callie never existed; she is in fact the Doctor’s best enemy the Master (but you probably already knew that 😅). Her motivations are quite similar to Missy’s - she wanted her friend back, so she managed to make her newest regeneration a combination of every woman that the Doctor’s loved, and has drawn upon her knowledge of what the Doctor finds most appealing in a friend/romantic partner. When he tries to push her away, she gives him a look of mock-confusion and asks:

“What’s wrong, Doctor? I thought you were going to show me the universe?…”

Edit: I’ve started writing a fic about it :D:

[eand47]

Chapter I | Fantastic Mr. Fox and The Cry Baby

Summary: You moved to one of the biggest cities in the world - Grand Line to pursue filmmaking career. Soon enough your path will cross with the vocalist of upcoming band called “The Neighbourhood”. At first you decided to be just friends - because it would be easier, but sadly as everything in life sometimes by taking the easy path we regret a lot of things.

Main characters: Portgas D Ace x Reader (female)

Supporting characters: Nami, Usopp, Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, Law, Deuce, Shanks, Buggy, Sabo, Eustass Kid (more to be add)

Description: Modern AU | Musician Ace

WARNINGS: None for this chapter.

Word Count: 4,5K

NOTE: This is my first time writing a fanfic. English is not my first language so please if there are some mistakes let me know. The whole fanfic was mostly inspired by the song “Flawless” by The Neighbourhood and today as I was feeling nostalgic for the 2014/2016 Tumbler Era I was listening to them and something made me think of Ace (as I think about him 25/8) and I just imagine him singing these songs therefore that is why I named the story “The Neighbourhood”. So I hope you all will enjoy the journey that I will try to write down as good as possible. Most of the chapters will be inspired by songs by The Neighbourhood. I don’t own any of the characters and everything is fiction! This chapter was inspired by the song “Cry Baby” listen to it when you see it mentioned if you want to get to “experience” the story. Enjoy <3

Grand Line – one of the busiest cities in the world. Most people who move here do it to chase a dream, those who were born and raised here carry themselves differently. Autumn has come and the chilly weather could be felt by everyone. The streets were already full of people – some going to work, others to school, and the lucky ones were just enjoying a nice walk around the parks or a warm coffee with a friend. The ringing of my phone woke me up. I picked it up without checking who was calling me.

“What?” I groaned.

“Hey, there” the voice from the other end sounded cheerful as always. “How is my favorite niece doing?”

“Shanks I’m your only niece, and this line is getting kinda old don’t you think?” I scoff at him.

“I just make sure you always know this.” He chuckles.

“Yeah, yeah sure. Now tell me why you are calling me so early in the morning?”

“Don’t you have classes?” He asked sternly.

“I do but not until 1PM. So, shoot, why are you bothering your one and only favorite niece for?” I mocked him.

“I hope you don’t have any plans for tonight as I need some extra help at the bar. There is this famous band in town that is going to perform tonight and they sold out so fast the bar is going to be full, so I would really appreciate some extra help.”

“It’s not like I really have plans, but still can’t you find someone else to help?” I wasn’t really in the mood for work tonight, especially in my uncle’s busy bar.

“If I had I wouldn’t have bother to ask you.” He said and then added. “I will pay you double if you come.”

“Oh you should of start with this.” I laughed.

“I should count on you to come then?” He asked me seriously.

“Yes Shanks I will be there just let me know what time.”

“Well they will start playing around 10PM so be here at latest at 9PM, okay foxy?” he has been using this nickname for me since I was a kid.

“Okay, see you then. Bye Shanks” I didn’t even bother to wait for his goodbye as I hung up.

I looked at the clock next to my bed and it showed me that it’s 9:38AM so I decided to get up and get ready for the day. I have just recently started studying Filmmaking as I took one gap year as I wasn’t really sure what I would like to pursue as a career, but I have always loved filming, so I took the chance and got into a Filmmaking program. With taking the program, I also moved from my hometown so now I live alone, and I love it, even though I miss my dad. But at least I have my uncle close to me.

My love for movies comes from my dad. He is quite popular comedian known as – Buggy the Clown. His stand-up shows are always sold out and he knows how to make people laugh. Another thing he is quite recognized for is this big bright fake red nose that he always wears in his shows, and he always tells people how much his daughter hates it. On the other hand, Shanks is not really my biological uncle, but him and my dad are like brothers so ever since my mother left us, Shanks has been the one to help my father take care of me, always. Shanks has always been like a second father to me, when moving to Grand Line, Shanks even invited me to live with him, but I declined his offer as I wanted to start living on my own. My apartment wasn’t big it was just a one room apartment, but it was perfect for a “broke” student – but both my dad and Shanks love to make fun of it, calling it “the foxy cave”, but I don’t really pay attention to them as they always love to tease me.

I decided to not waste my time lying in bed, so I started to get ready for the day – after I brushed my teeth and did my make up, I looked around my messy wardrobe thinking what to wear today. It is already Autumn so the weather can be quite tricky. I decided to go for some sheer black tights, with a denim skirt and a black polo shirt as I add a lot of silver jewelries to the outfit – I finished it off with some knee length black boots and an oversized bomber jacket. I grabbed my bag as I double checked if I took everything with me and the most important thing - my laptop, as I made sure that I got everything I left.

I still have two hours left before my classes start so I decided to go to my favorite coffee shop. It is close to my university, but it’s a hidden gem for people who like to escape the noise from the busy streets so usually it’s not very busy. As I entered, I went and left my bag and jacket in my favorite corner in the coffee shop, exactly next to the big windows as the lighting is perfect there and I love to just sit sometimes with my back facing them as I just enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the coffee shop and try to ignore the world around me.

“One black coffee, please.” I went and ordered my coffee from the barista, who at this point recognizes me as a regular customer. I paid for it as they handed me the coffee and went to sit back down.

I sat back and opened my laptop as I started to think how I should continue with my script for this week’s assignment. I was so deep in thoughts and work as I didn’t realize I’m almost out of battery. As I opened my bag, I realized that my laptop charger was not there and then it hit me that I forgot it at home.

“No, no, no, nooo” I got up from the chair as I started to look around just in case, but I cursed myself for being so forgetful all the time. “Fuck” I said out loud, a little louder than I intended to. I looked up embarrassed to see if someone heard me, only to see this old woman giving me a disappointed look as she heard me cursing to which I mouthed “sorry”. As I sat down, I saw a guy sitting on the table next to my left side, and I noticed he has the same laptop as me so I decided to ask him if I can borrow his charger.

The guy was sitting a little slouched as he was humming to himself as he was tapping with his finger on the table. He was wearing this orange beanie with a set of headphones on top of it, but I still couldn’t see his face clearly as his messy black hair was covering most of it. As I approached him, I gently tapped him on his shoulder. He turned around and as cliché as it might sound my heart skipped a beat, as the last thing I expected was for him to have such a pretty face. He took off his headphones as he looked questioning at me.

“Hey, sorry for disturbing you.” I apologized as I finally realized that I was just standing there staring at him without saying anything. “I noticed that we have the same laptops, and mine is almost dead as I forgot my charger home and.. um I was wondering if you don’t mind me borrowing yours for just a couple of minutes.” I asked.

“Oh yeah, sure.” He responded to me immediately with a smile, and I smiled back at him. “There you go, just don’t forget to return it.” He said to me with a little smirk as he was handing it to me.

“I-I won’t, I promise” I said as a little blush appeared on my cheeks and nodded.

I went and sat down as my heart was beathing fast. I looked up to where he was sitting at, and I saw him looking at me as he continued to hum something to himself. Quickly I looked away, back at my computer as I could feel my cheeks getting warmer with every second I kept on looking at him. After a few minutes when I finally calmed down and continued to work on my script, I heard one of the chairs next to me moving and someone sitting next to me. I moved my gaze from the laptop screen, and it was him. “Hopefully you don’t mind.” He said it more as a statement than a question with a little smile on his face, I couldn’t find my words as he was sitting so close and unexpectedly to me, so I just shook my head “no”. “Nice. My name is Ace.” He introduced himself as he gave me his hand for a handshake. I noticed that he was wearing some intricate silver rings on his middle and index finger.

“(Y/N)” I replied as we shook hands. His hands were surprisingly so soft.

“(Y/N), that’s a beautiful name.” he repeated it one more time as to make sure he remembers it.

My mouth got dry so I took a sip from my coffee and couldn’t help but wrinkled my nose and furrowed my eyebrows.

“Is the coffee that bad?” He raised an eyebrow at my expression.

“No, the coffee is alright. I just hate coffee.” I shook my head feeling the after taste.

“Then why are you drinking coffee if you hate coffee?” he looked at me curiously.

“That is a question I get a lot.” I laughed. “But – you know what. Honestly, I don’t know, maybe I just want to be “different”.” I made a gestured with my hands as I put them up to my head and shook them when I said “different” as I was referring to one of my favorite movies “Fantastic Mr. Fox” but I knew he wouldn’t get the reference or the joke.

“I think I have this thing where I need everybody to think I’m the greatest.” My jaw almost fell to the floor as he quoted the movie, as he did the exact same gesture with his hands.

“No way – no way you got the reference.” I was so surprised. “No one, and I swear no one has ever gotten this reference when I’ve done it.”

“There is always a first.” He chuckled at me.

“Yeah, you are definitely right about that.” I chuckled as well. I looked at the time and I saw that I need to go, as my classes are starting soon. ” Well it was very nice to meet you Ace, thank you for the charger.” I said as I gave him back the charger and he flashed me with a charming smile.

“Happy to help.” He replied. As I was getting up to go, he called after me and I turned around to look at him. “See you around?” He raised his eyebrow in a questioning way.

Instead of replying to him I just did the hand gesture again and he just laughed at me as he shook his head in disbelief.

*******

Walking up to university I couldn’t stop having a big grin on my face every time I remember the little encounter I just had with this guy Ace in the coffee shop. I really hope we can cross paths again as he seemed very nice, and handsome as well so I wouldn’t mind getting to know him more.

When I reach uni I saw two of my closest classmates and friends – Nami and Usopp sitting on the sofas in the chill aera at school.

“Hello guys.” I greeted them. “What are you doing?”

“I had an amazing idea for my character final goal but I don’t know how to develop it so Usopp is helping me.” Nami explained to me.

“No one can beat my imagination, so she came to the right person.” He pointed at him self with a cocky smirk as Nami just roll her eyes at him.

“Yeah, yeah. Anyway..” Nami looked at me with mischievous eyes. “Are you free tonight?”

“Sadly, no. I’m helping my uncle Shanks with his bar tonight.”

“No, tell him you can’t. I have a better offer. Our friend Luffy invited us to listen to his brothers band play tonight in this place called “The Red Pirates” so you must come.” She emphasized on “must”.

“Yeah, they are super good. We have been to all of their gigs and those guys are soon going to be big name if they get a good manager.” Usopp agreed with her. “So you should definitely come with us.”

“Thank you guys for the invitation – but funny enough coincidence, where your friend’s brothers are playing tonight is also where I will be working as “The Red Pirates” is owned by Shanks.” I laughed at the coincidence.

“Ohh but you will be working it won’t be the same.” Nami whined.

“I know but hey – I can give you some free drinks.”

“Sold.” Both Nami and Usopp said at the same time. I rolled my eyes playfully at them.

“What is the band called by the way? I forgot to ask Shanks.”

“The Neighbourhood. One of the brothers is the vocalist and also the guitarist in the band, the other one is the drum player and there are two more guys. But all of them are very good.” Usopp explained to me and if he says that these guys are good then I believe him as he has a very good sense when it comes to music.

“Well I might not be able to enjoy it with you guys but at least I will be able to hear them.” I said as I shrugged.

“Next time they play somewhere you are coming with us no matter what!” Nami pointed her finger at me with a very serious tone as I just laughed at her and agreed. Then we all got up and headed to class as we didn’t want to be late.

As we were walking to class Nami looked at me and smirked.

“What?” I looked at her confused about why she was looking at me like that.

“What’s with that grin you have on your face?” She teased me.

“Can’t I be in a good mood without a reason?” I teased her back.

“Of course you can, but there is something in that smile that is telling me that something has happened to you, care to share.” She looked at me with curiosity.

“Maybe, maybe not.” I decided to play a little bit.

“Oh come on, we don’t keep secrets from each other.” She whined.

“But I’m not keeping anything.”

“But you are also not telling us something.”

“Nami just don’t want to see us happy.” Usopp whispered to me, only to get smacked by her.

“If you want to tell me something, say it to my face Usopp.” She hissed at him.

“I think I said enough.” He replied as I could only laugh at them.

As we sat down in class and waited for our professor, Nami and Usopp were having a back and forth as usual, so I decided to interrupt them. “Who else is coming with you guys tonight?”

“Zoro – you have met him already. And Luffy and Sanji, but you haven’t met them yet but we will try to introduce you to them tonight.” Usopp informed me.

“Nice, I like Zoro – he is cool.” I said as I have met him already like two or three times. “Nami are you going to be the only girl hanging with them?” I felt a little bad for her, as even tho I knew that they all have been friends for a long time sometimes it sucks to be the only girl in the group.

“Maybe – I asked my friend Vivi if she wants to join as well but she already have made some plans so she is not really sure if she can make it tonight.” She shrugged not like she did really care. “I was more looking forward for you to join us – but you chose work over us.” She pretended to be hurt but she wasn’t the best actress.

“Good thing you chose filmmaking and not acting.” I joked with her as she pushed my shoulder also laughing. As we three were messing around our professor entered and the lesson started.

*******

Time passed by quickly and we were done for the day and this week.

“Geez writing scripts is tiring” Usopp announced loudly as we were leaving the classroom.

“At least next week we are in the same group, and we have to do sound.” Nami said.

“Yeah but sound is actually not an easy task guys.” I said and Nami whined. “But I’m interested in what we should base the story on for the sound – I spoke with some people from the second year and they told me last year it was based on some medieval picture where people were portrayed as someone was torturing them.”

“Wait we have to come with a script for the sound exercise as well?” Nami asked me in disbelief.

“Yes, a script based on the picture we will be given so we can create sound after it to match with it.” I explained.

“I don’t know about you girls, but I love working with sound.” Usopp exclaimed happily as his posture relaxed with both hands behind his neck.

“Thanks God you are in our group.” Both Nami and I said. Usopp just laughed at us, as he grabbed us and embracing us in a hug.

“What are you two going to do without me?” He exclaimed sarcastically.

“Probably find someone else to take over your place.” I poked him on the sides as I escaped his embrace. He let a groan as Nami also poked him as he let her go.

“You both are cruel.” He whined as we laughed at him. As we continued to walk and chitchat, I turned to Usopp to ask him how his producing music was going.

“Actually” he started excited. “Luffy’s brother Sabo asked me to help them with producing a new song so I’m quite excited to work on this project with them as believe me when you hear these guys tonight – you gonna become a fan immediately.” Nami agreed with him as she eagerly nodded her head.

“I’m telling you when Luffy first told us his older brothers are starting a band we were all in disbelief as none of us expected them to be so good, and when they dropped their first EP we were all shocked.” It was so strange to watch Nami speak so highly of someone so I guess these guys should be quite good.

“Bro till this day I can’t comprehend how good of a vocalist Ace is like man really has the talent.” As Usopp mentioned the name “Ace” I wondered if it might be the same guys I met earlier today in the café. As Nami and Usopp were gushing about how good the band was I grew more and more curious.

“Do you guys have some pictures or something” I asked casually, but I wanted to see if any of the members was the “Ace” I met earlier as I remember he was humming and tapping with his fingers something that musicians do quite a lot. Both Nami and Usopp started to laugh, and I got confused. ” What?” I asked.

“They don’t have any pictures across any of their social media, because…” Usopp started to explain but burst out laughing again with Nami.

“Because what?” I got even more curious now.

“Because they don’t want to be known and get famous for their looks.” They continue to laugh.

“Are they really that good looking?” I raised my eyebrow as I can’t imagine the confidence someone must have to say this.

“Well even tho I kinda feel embarrassed to say this as I know them for a long time...” Nami started as she got a little blush on her cheeks. “They are very good looking and hot.” She murmured but we heard her clearly and Usopp started to tease her immediately.

“OHH I’M TEELING THEM THIS” He shout out as he started to run as Nami started to chase him.

“DARE AND YOU WON’T SEE ANOTHER DAY” she screamed after him. I run after them trying to catch up with them.

“Guys stop – wait for me. No one is telling anyone anything.” I caught up to them as we were all out of breath. “Damn all these hours of sitting and editing are starting to catch up to us.” I joked and they laughed. “Can you play something from them, I’m curious to hear them now.”

“Yeah sure.” Nami pulled out her phone to play them to me but Usopp stopped her fast.

“Don’t - let her hear them live fist.” He mischievously suggested to Nami. She looked at him and the me for a second before turning to Usopp.

“I get your point, but let’s see if their “theory” is right. So let’s play her one song as she has no idea what they look like and if she doesn’t like it then we can make fun of them and their stupid theory.” After Nami said this Usopp eagerly agree with her, and they both sat me in a middle of a bench – Nami sitting on my left and Usopp sitting on my right side.

“Here put this.” Usopp put his headphones on my head. “Which song do you plan to play to her?” Usopp asked Nami.

“I was thinking of “Cry Baby” as they wrote that one based on one of Luffy’s crushes.” Nami suggested to Usopp.

“I was thinking of “Wiped Out” as it’s one of my favorites – but yeah “Cry Baby” is a good choice.” Usopp agreed with her. “Play it!”

The song started to play, and the intro reminded me of a nice sunny day at the beach. Then the first verse started.

I think I try too hard

How I look, what I do, what I'm sayin'

I spend too much time explainin' myself

So far, the first verse sounded very catchy. Then the Pre-Chorus and the Chorus started, and I loved the song.

I know I'll fall in love with you, baby

And that's not what I wanna do

I hope you won't ever lie to me

And if you do, I know I won't be your cry baby

Usopp was right about the guy who sings the song, his voice is mesmerizing.

Cry baby, cry baby

We need to cry

And if we do, I know that would be alright

The song finished and I took off the headphones. Both Nami and Usopp were looking at me expecting my reaction.

“Sooo…” Nami nudged me to say something. I looked at Nami, then Usopp before I said anything.

“They better sound as good as in the record when they performed tonight.” Usopp and Nami gave each other a high-five.

“I knew that you gonna like them.” Usopp said excitedly.

“I’m only a little disappointed as I really wanted to make fun of them, especially Ace.” Nami pouted. “But that is good that you liked them now every time them perform you will be tagging along with us as we never really miss any of their concerts.”

“But what did you mean by that this song was written for your friend Luffy?” I asked as I wouldn’t ever guess that this song was written based on someone’s younger brother’s crush.

“Apparently when Luffy was a kid he used to be a big cry baby and Ace and Sabo used to tease him about it a lot and call him Cry Baby, and there was this girl he had crush on, but she was kinda.. you know leading him on so yeah… apparently, he cried over her and that is how the song came to life.” Usopp explained to me, and I just nodded.

“Is your friend better now?”

“Yeah he is fine. He literally forgot about her after a week or so.” Nami brushed it off as if it was nothing.

We sat for a little bit more talking about school when Usopp received a text from his girlfriend Kaya.

“Okay girls I’m leaving you for now. Kaya needs me to help her with something so see you later.”

“Is she not coming tonight?” Nami asked.

“No, she has some plans with her friends, so she is not coming.” He shrugged as he gave Nami and me a hug goodbye. “See you later.” We bit him goodbye.

“So you are telling me there is nothing you can do to not work tonight?” Nami looked at me pleadingly.

“No, I’m sorry Nami sadly not – you know I can’t do this to Shanks especially tonight. But I will be still there – just behind the bar.” I really wished I could of join them, but I can’t turn up on Shanks in the last moment.

“You better make good drinks or else I will complain to the manager.” She joked with me.

“I promise I will make the best once for you.” We both sat for a little bit longer before we hugged goodbye.

******

Before I headed to the bar I decided to go home and change. It took me some time to reach my apartment and as I entered, I took my boots off. I quickly changed to some old jeans and sweater I have. I still had like two hours before I started so I just ate something quickly as I was scrolling around social media. As I was scrolling, something piqued my interest and I decided to check these guys band Instagram, so I went to Nami’s profile trying to find them in her following list. I found them but as Nami and Usopp said they really didn’t have any pictures of them posted, I thought about checking their following list as they were following only four accounts and I guessed it was the band members, but I decided not to – as to surprise myself tonight. I contemplated for a second whether I should follow them or not, but I did anyway. I looked at the time and decided to head to work. I put some comfortable sneakers on my feet as I knew it would be a long night. I grabbed my bag, turned my headphones on and left.

next chapter ->

[celtigxr]

The Pink Dread (Master List) - - - - - ch. xii: High Horse

Chapter Summary: A tragedy is struck at Dragonstone, urging the King, Queen, and a few others to leave for the week. At the same time, the Baratheons and the Starks have made it to King's Landing, adding a bit more to the already simmering pot of problems at court.

Word Count: 3728

Sneak Peak: “Lady Valeana,” Ser Criston greeted with a stagger, “Why are you out this late? If you are lost, I can show you back–” “That isn’t necessary, Ser Criston,” Valeana resisted the urge to bite back that she used to live at the Red Keep, and knew it well. Her eyes flickered over his shoulder, where the black stallion still remained, and his silver-haired rider still perched on top. “I need a word with Prince Aemond, if he allows me.”

Warnings: Miscarriage mention. A G N S T

T H E   R E D S

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Valeana bit her nails down to the tips of her fingers, undoing the weeks worth of growth she had been trying to achieve. It had been three days since the fiasco at the library, and Val had been pacing and tossing and losing her mind over her decision. She had nearly flipped on it, deciding to take on Aegon’s opinion of how Aemond didn’t deserve her forgiveness nor her apology. It was greatly out of character for Valeana to fold like that; usually her stubbornness and ferocity rivalled the crabs that littered the beaches of her ancestral seat. All hard and sharp edges, ready to pinch and attack anything that tried to come close to it. 

A ghost of a smile came to her face at the memory of a crab that somehow escaped its inevitable death from a boiling pot in the kitchen. It had grabbed the knife the cook was trying to use to stab him with, and started to wave it around comically. Clement had pointed it out and said: “That’s you whenever you get into an argument with someone, and you are clearly losing”. 

Eventually the crab won its freedom and was brought back to the beaches, knife and all. 

A loud screech above her head snapped her out of her nostalgic reverie and back into reality. Vhagar flew above the Red Keep, with a distinct black figure on her back. This was the only time she was able to see Aemond after these past few days. From what her father had told them, The Cannibal had been sighted coming more west than he was known for, and they had Aemond fly Vhagar around the city a few hours in the day and nights to deter him from trying to reach the Pit. 

Val had been waiting for an opportunity to cross paths with the prince, hoping to get her apology over with so it no longer weighed so much on her mind. With all this time waiting, however, her resolve was waning with every thought of doubt that passed her mind. It was nearing the hour of the bat, and the members of court will be shut in their apartments, eating their final meal of the day over a lavender tea or a mulled wine before bed. She felt too nauseous to eat, so she went for a walk through the parapets that overlooked the couryard, the gardens, and the Godswood. Aemond would return at any moment, and with the Keep being quiet and near empty, this would be the perfect opportunity to intercept him before he reached the Holdfast, where eyes and ears were keener to personal conversations. 

Valeana walked through the parapets and towers until she made it down spiral stone stairs that lead to the corridor that would then lead her into the Throne Room. After all these years she still felt a sense of unease everytime she was met with them, and unfortunately, they were in abundance in both the Keep and at home. She took her time walking down the steps, as she always did, eyes glued to the ground, one hand lifting her skirts and the other bracing the wall as he watched one foot after the other. 

By the time she reached the Throne room, the sun had fully settled under the horizon and the braziers were fully lit, giving the large room a foreboding glow as the shadows of iron and steel swords cast upon the ground. She stopped in the middle of the chamber to look upon it, as did everyone who passed through the grand room. It was difficult not to. Terrifying, beautiful, ancient, like the family that owns it, that created it with fire and blood. 

When she exited the Throne Room, a gust of wind greeted her on the top of the grand stairway, forcing her to hug her arms as she descended slowly. A few gold cloaks looked at her curiously as they passed by, some nodding their heads and muttering a ‘my lady’ out of respect. About halfway down the main gate opened and a horse trotted through, his rider unmistakable even from her distance. 

Valeana picked up her skirts and carefully sped down the stairs, which were blessedly wide, and less likely to threaten her life. Her eyes glanced from her feet to the black stallion, who stood in the middle of the outer courtyard with Aemond still atop, as a white cloak stood nearby. It looked like they were conversing about something, likely about the whereabouts of the Cannibal. Under normal circumstances, the dragon’s appearance would interest her more, but her mind had been otherwise occupied with more pressing issues. 

She made it down the steps without tripping, and then took long swift strides just as the knight left the horse’s side and turned around once she was within earshot. 

“Lady Valeana,” Ser Criston greeted with a stagger, “Why are you out this late? If you are lost, I can show you back–”

“That isn’t necessary, Ser Criston,” Valeana resisted the urge to bite back that she used to live at the Red Keep, and knew it well. Her eyes flickered over his shoulder, where the black stallion still remained, and his silver-haired rider still perched on top. “I need a word with Prince Aemond, if he allows me.”

Cole’s eyebrow quirked at this, and he turned to look over his shoulder at the Prince. Aemond wasn’t looking in their direction, instead he was facing forward, lips pursed as he considered his response. 

“You may go, Ser Criston. I’ll ensure the lady is returned to her apartments safely,” he slowly pivoted his head towards them, eye finding hers. When violet met green, she found herself taken back, speech caught in her throat even after the knight bowed his head and bid them a good evening. 

Aemond was staring at her in complete indifference. 

Swallowing thickly, Valeana took a step forward towards him and his horse, but as soon as she did, Aemond kicked the side of the animal gently for it to walk at a slow trot. She stared at the back of his head in confusion, and opened her mouth to ask him to stop, but he already cut her off before a word came out. 

“Keep up, Celtigar.” 

“Keep up, Celtigar!” Aemond laughed as he sped down the Serpentine Steps.  “Oh c’mon, Aemond! You know I can’t run as fast as you! I got little legs, Godsdammit.” Val huffed, holding up her skirt, her face red and brow sweaty as she tried to keep up with him.  He slowed to a stop about halfway down and looked up at her, “Alright, alright. I’ll wait for you. But we’re going to be late!” “I rather be late than break my leg on these stupid stairs.” 

With an irritated huff, Valeana picked up her skirts and jogged next to his horse, being careful to keep her distance as she approached behind. She had already been kicked more times than she can count back home, and had since learned what not to do. 

“What is it you wish to speak to me about?” His voice was stone cold, with no use of her formal title. 

“About the library,” she replied, out of breath as she struggled to keep up with the gait of his horse. “About that night. And– and, well, everything.”

They were approaching the drawbridge, forcing her to get closer to his horse to fit the width. Trying to keep up with him was making her left knee and her stump start to ache, but she swallowed it down. 

“Hm,” the noise that filtered through his nostrils was a bit like a laugh, though humourless and barely there. “Everything. That is a lot of ground to cover, and I am a busy man, Celtigar. Speak swiftly.”

When they passed the inner gate towards the main courtyard that led to the stables, two gold cloaks flanked the entrance and both exchanged curious glances at the odd pair. They, however, didn’t say anything, or offered to help her. Briefly, she thought about Ser Harwin Strong, and how gallant and chivalrous he was. He would have helped her, surely. 

Shaking her head free of depressing memories, she scrambled to continue, to find the right words. 

“I wanted to apologize,” she rushed, a huff filtering through her lips. With a brief glance up at him, she saw that it was enough to catch his attention. He merely peered down at her through his lashes, his chin raised in the way he always did when he was trying to appear superior. Valeana was overcome with the desire to quite literally knock him off his high horse, but she viciously reminded herself she was here to make amends, and broker peace. 

Still… It would be incredibly easy just to slap the horse’s rear and cause him to buck.

When he didn’t say anything she continued, “You tried to be civil initially – kind, in your own way – with me, and I acted like a juvenile.”

“Hm, yes, I’d say running off crying after being gently shoved is quite juvenile,” his comment made her head twirl up to him. He wasn’t looking at her again, eyes trained forward as they slowly approached the stables. 

Valeana’s trot slowed down, her chest heaving in deep breaths and beating wildly from a heart that was struggling to stay in one piece. 

“That isn’t– That’s not—” She cut herself off by running her fingers over her eyes in frustration. When she pulled them away from her face, Aemond was dismounting and landing gracefully next to his horse, whilst a stablehand took the reins from him. She remained where she stopped, legs exhausted and knee in pain, and it was starting to feel like it was all for nothing. “Please don’t make this difficult.”

He raised an eyebrow, the corner of his lip curling upwards derisively, “That is rich.” Then he slowly closed the space, but stopped short at three feet, “Is that all you have to say?” 

“No,” she licked her lips, and failed to notice how his eye flickered to them for a brief moment. “What you did to me when we were children… It destroyed me, Aemond. Quite literally.”

He turned his cheek to her, looking about the courtyard, at the servants and knights that filtered through the castle and its grounds. His blind eye was facing her, possibly by design, given now she had no way to read him. 

“And I did not want to forgive you, for a long time, but I have grown tir…of…– Are you even listening to me?” Valeana took a step forward when he still wasn’t gracing her with his attention. She peered around the area for a split second, wondering wildly if there was actually something of more importance or he was just being a jackass on purpose. 

Aemond pursed his lips, slowly turned so his good eye could look at her through the curtain of his lashes, “Save your breath, Valeana. You’re almost out of it.”

“.... Excuse me?”

He continued, “There is no need for you to apologize… You have every right to your bitter resentment over a decades old childish blight. I also do not need your forgiveness… I did not apologize for it, and I have no intention to. My earlier attempt at reconciliation was merely a favour for my father, the king, who I am obligated to please. But I will tell you what I told him: I was a child who acted the way a child would after being cornered–”

“Cornered?!”

“--And now I am a man grown. I have no desire to dawdle in the past, like you may do.”

Her mouth was agape, completely gobsmacked by everything he said. From the blatant delusions of what he had done to her, to his complete apathy for everything. She did not know why she let Helaena convince her to reach out to him… Valeana was right all along; Aemond was too far for her to grab. She should’ve listened to Aegon, which was almost laughable. Aegon, the wiser one.

Valeana swallowed the pit that was forming in her throat, and immediately shook her head when she felt her nose tingle and her eyes sting. She was trying her best not to let her sensitivities get the best of her again, but Aemond was not done driving the dagger in her back. 

“Gods,” he rolled his eye, and stepped back from her. “If you want pity, Celtigar, go run back into the arms and pillows of my brother. You shall not find it with me.”

“Wh-what?” She blinked wildly at him as he stomped past her, confusion joining the party of her emotions.   

“I’d prefer you cease seeking me out, Lady Valeana,” he called out to her once he was a few yards away. “I do not wish to be the villain in your story any longer.”

She watched him walk away, eyes marbled wide, tears freely lining her flushed cheeks. Her anger peaked as the distance between them grew. 

“TOO LATE!” 

T H E  G R E E N S 

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The Baratheons had arrived the same day they received a letter that Princess Visenya, Aemond’s only niece, had passed away from a fever that she had been battling for a fortnight. The Targaryens were then plunged into mourning for a child they had not met.

King Viserys met with Borros Baratheon with sorrow in his heart and an apology on his lips. He needed to get to Dragonstone, to be with his daughter, to be there when they cremate his only granddaughter. Borros understood of course, and gave him and everyone his condolences. 

The King and Queen, as well as Lord Bartimos, his Lady Wife, Clement and Helaena had left to attend the funeral. The rest remained behind, but they all wore dark clothes in respect. 

Borros’ lady wife had remained at Storm’s End, being pregnant with hopefully their fourth child and heir. From what Aemond had learned, they had been trying relentlessly for a son, but after four daughters and a few miscarriages, they were unsuccessful. So, the Storm Lord was being overly cautious. 

With him though, he brought the Four Storms, his daughters, and the five of them resided in the northern tower of the Keep, which had been furnished and made into suitable apartments for their honoured guests. When questioned why the Baratheons were made accommodations, but not any other great houses, Otto simply said they would not be in King’s Landing for the entirety of the Conclave, and it would make little sense to set up pavilions when they could find temporary accommodations. 

The truth, of course, was because Borros Baratheon and his four daughters had sensitive egos, and would not have taken kindly to the Celtigars (a lesser house) being treated grander than them. Aemond would have to agree, even if the Celtigars were of purer Valyrian blood, when the Baratheons merely had a drop in the bucket. 

 Shortly after, the Starks arrived while the King was still at Dragonstone. It was a smaller party, with only Cregan and his sister, Wylla, but they had no issues with residing in a pavilion on the outskirts of King’s Landing. In contrast, the Manderlys that arrived with them were a large party, with two sons and a small army of young daughters, all to be married. 

With their arrival, it felt the Royal Conclave would officially begin, but no events would truly start until the King returned. It would begin on Maiden’s Day, which would be followed by a ball, where all the unwed, of-age maidens of the Realm will be formally presented. 

The Baratheon girls and Wylla Stark were a good distraction for the Celtigar daughters, it seemed. After the uncomfortable conversation he had the other day, Valeana had not made her presence known to him. The same could not be said for her step sister, who would happen to be just around every corner, anywhere he would be. 

Floris –Grafton, not to be confused with the younger, far more prettier, Floris Baratheon– had somehow found out about her sister approaching him in the courtyard that evening. He wasn’t entirely sure how, but there were many guards and servants about, so he wouldn’t have put it past her to bribe them into being her little bird.

“I told you she was going to try something,” Floris strode next to him, a modest distance away from his left shoulder, his blind side.

“And what was she trying to attempt? I am still trying to understand what she gains by trying to reconcile.” 

“She is attempting to be a martyr, because she knew you would not have accepted it,” she replied with contempt laced in her tone. “She even puts on quite a show in our apartments, walking around like a pitiful ghost. I don’t know what’s more pathetic, her charade, or how easily it sways my poor father and mother.”

“Your sister–”

“Step sister–”

“--Can put up an act all she wants. I have washed my hands of her, and kept my distance. Should she try to solicit reactions from others, they will find that there is no evidence of my involvement in her distress.” 

Floris pursed her lips and remained quiet for a moment before concurring with him, “Quite right… Though, I do have a thought.”

As they exited the corridor and onto an empty parapet, Aemond turned to her, and she to him. 

“Mayhaps simply avoiding her is not enough,” Floris put her hand on the stone balustrade, peering down at the gardens below, where chatter could be heard. “She will continue trying to get her petty, infantile revenge. If you wish to truly portray your non-involvement with her, then you must conduct your own charade. One that would not only convince the court, but will also paralyze her in fear and anger. She will not know what to do.”

Aemond tilted his head at her, attention now glued to her next words the moment she said ‘paralyze her in fear and anger’. It was not enough to just put Valeana Celtigar in her place publicly, he wanted to drive the sword right through her. If he was of a rational mind at the moment, he would be taken off by his own animosity for the girl, when she quite literally had done nothing to him… 

Aside from making him think of her in all hours of the day and night. Aside from unearthing his decades old guilt he tried hard to bury. Aside from using said guilt to manipulate him, making him feel weak and look foolish. Aside from haunting him with memories, and reminding him of his true feelings for her… Aside from breaking him in two when she laid with Aegon. His own fucking brother. 

“And what do you have in mind?” 

She smiled wickedly, “Court a lady. Preferably one that… has potential. That the King and Queen would approve of.” 

⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘

Later on that day, Aemond found himself back in the comforts of the library. He had a small supper by himself in his solar, and decided to resume his attempts at finding a Celtigar relation in their family histories. He had been unsuccessful thus far, but he was determined to find at least the mere mention of a name.

From behind him, he could hear the large library doors open, then followed by Maester Artos’ gruff, aged voice. 

“Is there anything I can help you with at this late hour, my lady?”

Aemond froze like a statue in front of the tome’s podium. All he could hear was feet on carpeted floors and his own breathing. 

“Actually, yes, Maester,” came a feminine voice, foreign to his ears. Aemond’s shoulders relaxed. “I am curious to see your collection on herbology and flora life. I saw some interesting plants and flowers in the gardens that I’ve never seen…and I’d quite like to identify them myself.”

Aemond slowly turned his head as he heard feet move further into the library. 

“Of course, my lady, right this way,” Artos shuffled in his direction, and the feminine form of the lady in question followed suit.

Aemond now fully turned around, not just because he was curious, but because he did not want to appear rude by ignoring their presence.

“Oh, my Prince,” the brunette startled, then bowed deeply in a curtsey. “I hope I didn’t disturb you.” 

“You didn’t,” Aemond assured, moving his hands behind his back. She was one of the Baratheon daughters, but he wasn’t entirely sure which one. They were all somewhat similar, and near in age. The only one that was identifiable was Floris, simply because her face was still round and soft with youth, and she was known to be the prettiest of the four. The thin, lithe creature before him was not her. 

She swallowed thickly, her hands clasped in front of her and fingers fidgeted, “Oh, good.” 

Maester Artos, oblivious to the nature of the interaction, went on a head to collect books from shelves for her. 

The Baratheon looked over her shoulder, her eyes widening at the size of the tome behind him, “What is it your reading, my Prince?”

Aemond looked over his shoulder briefly, “A bibliography of my ancestors. All members of the House of Targaryen since the Age of Conquest.” 

“Oh, gods,” she smiled softly, “It must be quite extensive… Are– Are there any Baratheons mentioned?”

“As a matter of fact, I had just been reading about Jocelyn Baratheon, my cousin’s mother.”

“Oh, my father’s aunt,” she smiled, “I was told she was quite tall and beautiful.” The lady then cleared her throat, and as if suddenly realizing something she curtseyed again, “Apologies, my Prince. I realize I did not introduce myself.”

Aemond gave a half smile, “I gather you are one of Lord Borros’ daughters.”

“One of four. We often get confused with each other,” she smiled to herself. “I am his second eldest, Lady Maris.” 

 “Court a lady. Preferably one that… has potential. That the King and Queen would approve of.” 

Aemond smiled wryly, hand reaching out to grasp hers and brought it to his lips to kiss.

“A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Maris.” 

Note: Guys, he's still cooking. It's a crockpot, okay, it takes a while. The more you hate him, the more satisfying it's gonna be, trust.

Tag: @queen-of-elves, @keylin1730, @anakilusmos, @weepingfashionwritingplaid, @sugutoad, @desireangel

( if you wish to be tagged for this story, just give me a reply! )

Please do not re post, redistribute or plagiarize my work. The only other place this story is posted on is ao3 under the same username.

[watchmorecinema]

Yukio Mishima has been trending this week for uh, reasons. He was a world renowned Japanese author and all of his work is overshadowed by his actions on November 25, 1970. You might not want to read more about this guy because he is horrible and disgusting, but he's utterly fascinating and the movie about him is brilliant.

He's a really interesting character, to the point that he sounds fictional. He's gay, obsessed with ritualistic death, a right wing lunatic, led a private militia that was halfway to a cult, and also was a legitimately great author. His life is covered in the film Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters and it's easily the most beautiful film I've seen in my life. Look at the stills I posted above; every frame of this movie looks like that. It's all just a series of beautiful paintings with people living in them.

The way the film is structured is that it tells the story of his life in three ways. His past is told in black and white flashbacks with static cameras. This is closer to how a movie from the 50's would look like (specifically ones directed by Yasujirō Ozu). The events of three of his books are told with this beautifully stylized look, with sets that look like stage plays. The events of November 25, 1970 is told in an almost normal fashion, with regular colors and competent camerawork. The past is nostalgic, the present is mundane and only in fantasy can you truly come alive.

Through this movie we see the ideology of Mishima coming through. His nationalism, his sexual feelings and his thoughts on beauty and death all come together. Death isn't just a violent and tragic end, it is in itself a beautiful act. Beauty is the only true goal of life and creating beauty brings honor. Growing old and ugly is an act of hate; to die at your peak is to give love back to the world. It is therefore treasonous to live long enough to die peacefully. He pities what heaven must look like now; when men died young and beautiful it was paradise, but now it is filled with old men.

This is an objectively insane way to view the world but it is also fascinating. How much of this was what he believed, and how much of it was just begging for attention? In one instance when asked why he moved to the right politically he said "because the left was full". It was a joke answer, but he clearly wanted to be in the spotlight. His shield society was a paramilitary group dedicated to living a virtuous life of beauty, honor and old ideals. It was also a group of good looking, athletic young men led by a (barely) closeted, conservative gay man. So much of his life could have gone differently but also he was pretty much in control the whole time; he was independently wealthy and revered on the world stage. He could do whatever he wanted, and apparently the way his life went *is* what he wanted.

What's special about Mishima, both in the film and in real life, is that he's a smart and eloquent guy. In films the guy with a crazy worldview is someone like Travis Bickle from Taxi Driver or D-Fens from Falling Down. Travis couldn't understand the alienation and loneliness he felt and he couldn't find any healthy solutions. D-Fens was smart enough but not emotionally strong enough to confront his problems or deal with them maturely. These are people that could benefit greatly from therapy (other examples include Joker from Joker, Rupert Pupkin from the King of Comedy, Frank Murdoch from God Bless America, Patrick Bateman from American Psycho, Tyler Durden from Fight Club and so, so many more).

These are either 20 something year olds that are lost in the world, alienated and lonely, or 40 something year olds with a mid life crisis when they realize that everything has fallen apart. People who don't know where to go, or realize it's too late to change things. Travis Bickle had basically no friends, no family, no charisma with women and a lot of rage and anger. D-Fens lost his job, his self respect and was estranged from his ex-wife and daughter. These are people who's lives are shit at best (Patrick Bateman is a bit of a subversion. He is rich and successful, but his life is completely hollow, his relationships are shallow and he personally is very, very pathetic. I need to write about American Psycho later that film is great too.).

Mishima is different. He's smart enough to understand his issues and how to find help. He's got the money and means to do so. He's famous and rich enough that he could basically get away with anything weird or eccentric so long as it was harmless. On the world stage he was a popular author, and at home he led a life of political activism. If he was unhappy he could easily find healthy ways to fix it. His self destruction was the most avoidable of any of them, yet he's the only one that existed in real life. You expect these people to have serious personality flaws and unfixable (or seemingly unfixable) problems, not to be poetic writers that adhere to healthy living and regularly journal about their emotions, while enjoying respect from their peers and fulfillment in their work.

It's a hell of a film. Paul Schrader has not written or directed anything better (he actually wrote Taxi Driver too, so he had some experience with this type of character before) and it stands out as an incredible experience to watch. Like, Mishima's life is public knowledge and you can probably guess how it went, but I've purposefully not said what happened on November 25, 1970 because I don't want to spoil it. It's an event that actually happened but it's better for you to find out via the film than some wikipedia page.

[slippednsalto]

To: Morgan

We share a bond, a mutual oath we swore

to unite the world and make its beauty soar,

Yet I struggle to find my way in this shadow,

and even with your presence, my heart feels hollow.

Date: 06/29/20XX 03:15 PM

[quotidian-oblivion]

If you’re willing, what’s your vision for “babies” “talons” or “b meets t”? You don’t have to do all of them lollll

Writer ask game

I can do talons and b meets t! Cuz another person asked abt babies lol. As mentioned in my intro post, I love rambling about my works!

~

talons

HEEHEEHEEHEEE

I love this one so much.

This was one of the first fic outlines I ever made. I'd say I made this after I finished writing My School’s Local Mafia Boss but before I started posting. I have yet to fully outline it. I know the whole plot, I just gotta start splitting it off into chapters bc rn its just several 3-page paragraphs of text and ideas and inspo. But I can share some of the plot!

Summary:

What if Bruce didn't arrive in time to adopt his sons?  What if the Court of Owls did? And what if… Dick gets Batman’s number during a mission and talks to him secretly, telling him about his life? What if Bruce helps Dick and his brothers escape?

So the deets are that Damian's 4, Tim's 10, Jason's 12. And Dick's 17 and the coo are waiting for him to turn 18 so they can fully sink their claws into him and corrupt him beyond humanity and make him into their soldier, so they have to get out before that happens.

Also, Dick is the ultimate big brother to the three. Saving them from various things and playing with them, studying with them, comforting them in the aftermaths of Cobb and the COO's harsh moments and training. But he's just one boy. Which is where Bruce comes in. They come across during one mission and Bruce is, well, horrified to say the least. To see these little babies fighting and being turned into mini versions of Talons. So he doesn't fight them and tries to help them instead, gaining Dick's trust, he talks to them secretly and helps them escape.

And then the story really begins. Here are teensy bits of what happens:

So yeah! That's some of it! There is so much more so much BIGGER things happening. Huge. But it shall all be revealed when I (EVENTUALLY) get to writing it and posting it :)

~

b meets t

It's just short form for Bruce meets Tim.

Summary:

Instead of the common trope of Jason bringing Tim into the family early, what if Bruce himself brings Tim into the family early instead? What if Batman, after Dick left, found Tim stalking him? Cuz he has a seventh sense for lost and abandoned kids.

It's a super cute story! I absolutely adooooore it!!

So one day, Bruce basically stumbles across a stammering-in-awe but still snarky little boy with a camera while on patrol. He is suspicious of the kid's home life and drops him off at a bus stop when the baby refuses to go with him anywhere (in the fear that Batman's gonna arrest him). After that, he sees the boy again and sighs and decides to take him out for ice cream on a whim, feeling nostalgic for when he and Dick used to do that. He drops Tim off at the bus stop again.

But then he comes across Tim again.

Then again.

Then again.

And again!

Ofc, this is when plot happens and it's absolutely the best! Little Tim tells Bruce off, Bruce gains some emotional understanding, he calls Dick, Alfred is suspicious, Dick visits and is surprised, Tim stumbles across little Jason stealing tires, and so much more!

It's really fluffy and cute and that's the note I'm gonna end this ask response on! Thanks for asking!! :D

[zorosjuicymelonsx]

Finding You

A/N: Well well well, I'm back with another chapter :D

I will say, Y/N does blush a lot but what can you do when a hunk of a man like Zoro exists like even just thinking about him now I feel like blushing XD

Anyways thats enough from me, I hope you enjoy this chapter to your hearts content and I'll be back next week with the next one!

Chapter Three Previous Next

The sun slowly peaked up from the horizon signaling a new day and Zoro’s end to his night watch. Grunting as he stood up and grabbed his swords, he beelined down the ladder to the deck with full intention of being reunited with his bed. Unfortunately, he just had to hear the sounds of faint grunting from the other side of the deck. He frowned, exhaustion evident on his face. He knew it wasn’t the shit cook so who else would be up at this hour? 

Being the responsible first mate he was, he huffed in annoyance before changing direction to locate the cause of the sounds, moving his hand to sit on the hilt of his sword in the off chance of an invasion. To his disappointment; he finds you. To his eye, you appeared to be training with your sword near the tangerine trees with your back to him unaware of his arrival. 

He noticed your attire: black, loose clothing almost tattered from extensive wear. Your hair was tied up and sweat glistened down your neck and back. At his brief observation of you, he could tell by the power you had as you swung your sword up and down that you were no novice. For some reason, he was reminded of home watching you. He felt nostalgic, briefly thinking of Koushirou from his time training under him. 

‘Was it possible that you were trained in the same dojo as him?’ 

He quietly continued to watch until you finished, hearing a sigh of relief leave your mouth. Sheathing your sword back and turning to head back to your room, a small gasp of surprise left you followed by a flush of embarrassment on your face as you realised Zoro was standing there. You stood awkward, you weren’t sure how long he was standing there for but nonetheless offered him a shy smile. 

“Where did you train?” He asked as he walked to stand in front of you. 

“Back at our village, we trained in the same dojo. You wouldn’t remember me, I was quite small and easily blended into the background.” You answered, smiling at the fond memory you have as a kid watching Zoro defeat almost every student who dared to challenge him, including yourself. You couldn’t help but mentally coo at how cute he was as a kid. 

Zoro nodded. He eye was captured by your sword. He lifted his hand up with his palm visible, silently asked for your permission to see the sword. Your eyes went to his palm, frowning as you noticed the calluses decorating his hands. 

‘They look rougher from the last time you saw him.’

Your hand tingled remembering how they felt in your hand. 

After a few seconds of ogling, realisation dawned on you of what he was asking for. You unhooked your sword from your waist and gently handed your sword into his palm. 

‘I wonder if he will ever remember that he gifted me this sword…’ You thought to yourself.

Zoro took your sword and unsheathed it, taking in the weight and its intricate design of dark green with gold decorating the entrance points. He knew this was a sword of a swordsman. He was amused at the thought of someone like you handling a sword like this. As he held the sword, he also felt familiarity with it, almost as if it wasn’t his first time holding it. 

He briefly looked up from the sword to observe you, seeing the visible definition in your arms folded under your chest, the faint sight of scars littered sporadically over your hands and the faint outline of abs on your waist. He had clearly misjudged you being delicate. You would feel the weight of his eye on you, almost like…no there was no way he was checking you out. 

“I could kick your ass right now Roronoa.” You spoke confidently as you took back your sword and re-tied it back to your waist, showcasing a cocky grin on your face. 

“Are you sure about that?” Zoro questioned with a raised brow smirking back at you, you nodded taking a few steps away from him. He could see the seriousness in your gaze as you unequipped your sword from its sheath. 

“Don’t even think about going easy on me either.” You warned, getting into a fighting stance. 

“If you say so.” He pulled out Wado. You eyed the sword and for a moment your heart ached for Kuina. The pristine condition of the sword was just proof of how he didn’t fuck around over the last few years with his vow to her. Shaking the ache away and replacing it with determination, you watched as he got himself into position. 

“Bring it on.” 

The two of you lunged at each other, the clash of swords gritting against each other as the sun rose higher into the blue sky. As promised, he did not go easy on you with the immense power he gave into his attacks. You were light on your feet, using your speed and stamina to counter his attacks. He grew frustrated with you, he could tell you planned to exhaust him as you ran around him handing him short but attacks. 

You were so quick in fact, you ended up behind him, taunting him by giggling in his right ear and quickly moving away as he turned to attack you. You put him out of his misery and decided to stand facing him, your sword swung against him which he quickly blocked. The sound of scraping swords would normally bring Zoro great joy, there was nothing he loved more than fighting with them. In this case, it was pissing him off. 

You felt exhilarated fighting him, the adrenaline and the rush of memories flooded your mind of the past fights you had with Zoro brought you great joy. Unbeknownst to Zoro, you had spent the last few years getting stronger as you traveled searching for him, spending hours of your life training. You were determined to make him proud.

The fight continued on for some time, you refused to give in even when your muscles had ached and your stamina began to deplete. Zoro took advantage of this once he noticed this, landing his sword onto yours that allowed him to easily twist and disarm you from it, your sword skidding away from you. He pointed Wado out quite close to your throat huffing for oxygen, signaling his victory with a ‘ha in your face’ smile only to see you had broken out laughing whilst you were also recovering your breath. His smile quickly turned sour, slowly dropping his sword from your throat confused by why you had suddenly started laughing. 

“That was fun, we should do that again.” You spoke out, walking past him to pick up your sword. 

“You lost and you’re laughing?” Zoro questioned as you put your sword back into its sheath. You looked up, nodding at him with the brightest smile you could muster. 

“Yes, now I know what I need to train on for next time. Thank you Zoro. I'll see you at breakfast!” You gave him a bow of gratitude and walked away from him. Zoro watched, trying to find the right words to express what he felt but found nothing. As he sheathed Wado back, suddenly he groaned, grabbing his head at the sharp ache that sparked in the forefront of his brain. He was not one for experiencing headaches, in fact he couldn’t remember the last time he ever had one. The ache disappeared after a few seconds, bringing him back to total normality. 

“That was weird.” Zoro grumbled to himself, putting his feet into action as he headed for bed.  

————————————- ⚔️✨ ————————————

“Luffy for the last time, that’s Y/N eggs and you’ve eaten enough to feed all of us!” Sanji shouted at Luffy, you giggled at the antics of your new captain. Luffy pouted as he crossed his arms in defeat. 

“It's okay Sanji, here Luffy you can have mine.” You scraped your eggs off your plate onto his. Luffy's pout now replaced with stars adorning his eyes as he chomped down. Sanji sighed in defeat but would never bring himself to ever lecture you. 

“Y/N-chan, it's sweet of you to be generous but you need to eat as well.” Sanji lovingly said as he walked over to you and placed more eggs from the pan he was holding. You smiled apologetically and got to work polishing off everything on your plate. 

As you picked up your cup and slowly began sipping on your coffee, you looked over at Luffy and remembered a question you had for him. 

“Luffy, may I ask what I’m expected to do now that I’m part of the crew?” 

Luffy looked up from his plate to look at you, a bright smile on his face.

“What's your dream Y/N?” Luffy asked. You weren’t expecting this question, the only person who really knew about your dream was your best friend Lily from the village and Zoro. You didn’t find your dream to be as inspiring as Zoro’s or Luffy’s but nonetheless you would tell your new captain. 

“My dream would be to illustrate my travels around the world. I carry my sketchbook around with me.” You answer back feeling a faint blush of embarrassment on your face, not noticing how Usopp’s ears perked up in interest. 

“Then as part of my crew and one of my nakama, you are to achieve your dream and in turn you  help me to become the King of the Pirates.” Luffy's answer was sufficient enough, you smiled at him nodding in acknowledgment. 

“You draw too? Can I see some of your work?” Usopp asked, you turned your head to nod at him. 

“Hold on Usopp-bro, before you do anything I need to give Y/N a formal tour of the ship. I hope you aren’t as helpless as your husband is with navigation.” Franky said, you and the others laughed. As much as you loved Zoro, you couldn’t deny he really was terrible with directions. 

With breakfast over, you thanked Sanji for the meal, got up and followed Franky around the ship with Usopp. He showed you around the rooms, where the bedrooms were, bathroom and the locker room to put your stuff in. You noticed your locker was placed next to Zoros which, not surprisingly, looked quite clean. 

After leaving the locker room, the three of you were making your way to the deck when you noticed a room Franky hadn’t taken you into with a sign ‘In Progress’. 

“What's this room for?” You asked him. Franky and Usopp looked at each other,  Usopp scratched his neck as he looked away from you embarrassed while Franky lifted up his right palm to giggle behind it.

“That room is for you and Zoro, it's not finished yet but it will be soon.” Franky said, winking at you. You had completely forgotten about that room and failed to fight the blush blooming on your face. 

Franky continued his tour taking you to the deck and to his workshop, proudly showing off his work in development. You admired in awe whilst Usopp promised to show you his factory room later on when “it was safe”. You had no idea what he meant by this, the tour eventually came to an end and you thanked Franky for his time. 

You made your way back to your shared room with the girls to grab your sketchbook to show Usopp your work. As you were leaving the room with your sketchbook in hand and made your way back to the deck to meet Usopp again, you noticed Zoro emerging from the boys room behind you, sleep evident in his eye. He looked at you, offering a short grunt in acknowledgment and entered the kitchen to see what food was left over for him. You smiled fondly to yourself, continuing up to the deck whilst remembering just how much Zoro loved to sleep. 

‘Some things never change do they’ 

Seven Years ago - Shimotsuki Village 

“Hey Y/N, are you heading home now?” Lily caught up to you as you were leaving the school building. You turned to acknowledge her with exhaustion evident on your face from the day you’ve had. You usually would have walked home from school with her but groaned as you remembered you had an errand to run. 

“I just need to make a quick delivery to the shop for my dad. You go ahead, I’ll see you tomorrow.” You promised, waving at her before walking away from the building.

As you walked on the path, you made a quick decision to take a shortcut through the forest to your left off the path to get to the shop. The parcel your dad had given you was hefty in weight and you couldn’t wait to feel the lightness in your bag back after spending the day carrying it. 

As you walked through the forest, hearing the gentle crunch of grass and leaves under your shoes, a gentle breeze wafted through your hair. You admired the forest, it was one of your favourite places to stroll through to clear your mind when you were overwhelmed. You always made sure to admire what it had to offer you from the brightest of greens in the leaves of the trees to the darkest shades of browns in the soil and bark. You truly felt at peace. 

After walking for some time and realising you weren’t far from the shop now, you turned a corner around a large tree when your eyes noticed something under one of the trees. You froze for a moment. You couldn’t make out what or who it could be from your distance. Your curiosity got the best of you, deciding to quietly walk up until your eyes could make out that it was Zoro leaning back against the tree sleeping. 

“Now why would you decide to nap there?” You whispered to yourself. You’ve never really been this close to Zoro before where you could examine his face as you always chose to keep your distance from him. You took in his tanned skin, noticing how supple it looked, his green hair vibrant. He looked so gentle like this compared to how you usually saw him; enigmatic and cold. You took in his facial features, his closed eyes were soft, his lips parted open and the sound of gentle snoring could be heard.

You knew he was special from how everyone treated Zoro. You were personally too intimidated by him to even look him in the eye. However, you realised he took no notice of all the stares he got from them. You couldn’t understand why they were so obsessed with him but you also couldn’t understand why you were so drawn to him at this very moment.

Deciding the parcel delivery could wait a little bit, you walked to sit a few trees away from him so as to not disturb him. You quietly dug through your bag and pulled out your sketchbook and pencil. 

You spent some time drawing him, taking your time doing so as you had a feeling he wouldn’t wake up from his slumber for some time. Some time passed and you stopped after you were satisfied with your work, looking between your work and Zoro. Your eyes paused on him, looking at the still Zoro, not noticing a small smile had crept on your face. Your heart began to thunder in your chest and your face and ears began to burn. 

‘Ba dum, ba dum, ba dum.’

“Oh fuck.” 

[fl00mie]

Ooh, can I ask what that specific line from XTale was that made you connect X-Gaster to "It took me by Surprise"?? :DD (I was literally just listening to it a few minutes ago so now I'm curiousss)! Also, yeah! Animatics are so hard to makeee!! It's insane! The OST thingy is also so funny to me for no reason xD (It's like reading only the first and last chapter of a book and calling it a day) Also, also!! I loveee the "Soulless Heart" lyrics so muchhh!!!! I get not knowing it had lyrics though lol! I'm glad to hear you slept well, but I totally get how frustrating it is to wake up late :( One thing that usually helps me is changing my alarm's time and music because it throws my brain off! Don't know if that helps, but <3!! Also, no worries about replying late to my asks!! There's no rush! I got notifs on for your blog so it's tots okay to take your time! :D I'll be here whenever you do manage to answer :3!!! Hopefully I didn't forget to reply to anything you said xD! Take care too, Exxiee!!

-☀️

yesyesye it is literally the chorus- like "it took me by surprise, the hatred in his eyes" and honestly the entire rest of it just fits hella right because OF

when i first watched the whole xtale movie i gasped so hard when this scene came through AHSHDH went like "what the heck?? this is literally.." and made some memory (nostalgic moment tbh)

the truth is i feel happy to have grown up and just to have returned to the ut community as it really belongs, back then i only used to be attached to sanscest ships😭 but now i can enjoy and appreciate every detail of the original game and everything about the multiverse more appropriately, it's pretty neat!!!x3 btw about that alarm thingy, i actually used to do it but stopped 'cause vacation lolss i'm not really *that* worried for my schedule.. at least not until september⚰️ still thank you very much for the advice♡♡ aah just as always (it's becoming a routine wheheh) i reply to your asks just before sleeping, i'll try to get up early this time tho! no promises.. good night sunny<3

[sheirukitriesfandom]

WIP Whenever

Got tagged by @elavoria and finally have some writing I can show to the public :D From A Change of Seasons: Foe, chapter 20 (unreleased):

Winterhold was full of ghosts. 

Some, whispers in the night when the college was fast asleep; some spectres in the fog when even the bravest fishermen dared not set sail; others more tangible, the blurry visions of drunk students or elusive scholars long forgotten by even the gods. It had been seven days since Rashkan joined their ranks.

Seven days of haunting college grounds, hiding from his fellow mages, yet yearning for them evermore. How foolish to think he could ignore his hunger. To believe everything would return to normal. Feeding on Phinis had sustained him at first, but like Valdis preyed on Winterhold, hunger crept up on him one meal at a time. Then two, three and four per day until his fellow college members transformed into tempting red spectres that tormented him even through the thick stone walls, their beating hearts a luring call louder than a dragon’s roar; their scent sweeter than psijic ambrosia. A feast for the senses, torture for the mind. Tagging: @elavoria (right back at you), @skyrim-forever, @nostalgic-breton-girl, @thequeenofthewinter, @theoneandonlysemla, @dirty-bosmer and @rakaiawriter

[jujumin-translates]

★ Main Story | Act 13 - Budding Spring | Chapter 24 - Family Wish

Chikage: Well then, take care.

Company Employee A: Huh? You’re not on the same flight, Utsuki-san?

Chikage: I still have a few errands left to take care of, so I switched my flight to tomorrow.

Company Employee A: I see. Well, you were a lifesaver this time. Thank you so much.

Company Employee B: It was thanks to you that we were able to successfully conclude our business negotiations, Utsuki-san. Their attitude towards the whole thing softened considerably compared to when we first asked.

Company Employee B: The power of language really is incredible.

Chikage: I’m glad I could help.

Company Employee A: Well then, we’ll take our leave.

Chikage: Good work.

*Footsteps*

Chikage: (Alright… Just in time to catch the next bus.)

· • —– �� ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Chikage: (It’s going to be a while from here, so I guess I’ll get some work done.)

Chikage: …

*Typing*

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Driver: 《Have a nice trip!》

Chikage: 《Thank you.》

Chikage: (I guess he can tell by my outfit that I’m not a local.)

Chikage: (Has it really been almost twenty years…?)

Chikage: (The city really has changed a lot since then. Well, that thing can’t be the same after all this time, right…?)

Chikage: (Anyway, the place where people are likely to gather is…)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Shopkeeper: 《Welcome.》

Customer A: 《That was so crazy back then!》

Customer B: 《I know, right?》

Customer C: 《Dad, they said it’s still gonna be a while.》

Customer D: 《Let’s just have dinner first.》

Customer E: 《What are we gonna eat?》

Customer F: 《I’m not really that hungry, though.》

Chikage: (How nostalgic. Just sitting here, there’s all kinds of languages being thrown around.)

Chikage: (This is a great place to get some multilingual input.)

Chikage: (If we as a theater company are going to expand our overseas outreach in the future, there’s no better way to do it than to have correspondence in as many languages as possible…)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Chikage: (If I relax for any longer, I’ll miss the bus.)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

*Footsteps*

Chikage: (The wall of this vacant lot… there’s even more graffiti than I remember. Was there really that much written on it before?)

Chikage: (It doesn’t seem like it’s gotten any less safe, at least.)

Resident: 《That area’s already all filled up. You’d have to write really small if ya wanted to put something there.》

Chikage: 《Does the graffiti here have some sort of meaning?》

Resident: 《Ahh, so you don’t know? Somewhere along the line, a rumor started goin’ around that if you wrote your name here, your dreams would come true.》

Resident: 《Even tourists started writin’ things here.》

Resident: 《Well, the owner doesn’t mind it, so it all just stays here.》

Resident: 《At first, there were just one or two things written up there.》

Chikage: --.

Chikage: (This is… my name…)

Chikage: (There’s only one person who would’ve done this. There’s no mistaking it, that handwriting is his--.)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

“Hey.”

“Do you have a family?”

“Do you have a dream?”

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Chikage: …

Chikage: (Dreams coming true, huh? What came first, the rumor, or the name…)

Chikage: (Hah, even now I still can’t figure out what he was thinking.)

Chikage: (Dreams, huh… Maybe the reason I was able to come here was because mine came true.)

Resident: 《Hm? I feel like I’ve seen your face somewhere before… Nah, you just look like an acquaintance of mine.》

Chikage: ?

Resident: 《You kinda look like an old colleague of mine. Your smile, especially.》

Resident: 《He passed away decades ago, though.》

Resident: 《His wife also passed away a few years back due to an illness… I’m pretty sure they had a son, but I think he was sent somewhere far away, or something like that.》

Chikage: 《...I’ve heard that I have distant relatives from around this area, so maybe there’s a connection there.》

Resident: 《Maybe so. If only his wife were still alive… I’m sure she’d be happy.》

Resident: 《A while back, I asked her about her son, and she said she’d probably never see him again, but all she hoped was that he wasn’t alone.》

Resident: 《Lookin’ at you, I feel like I’m seein’ their son.》

Chikage: …

Chikage: (Selfish to the very end.)

Chikage: (I didn’t feel loved by them. Hell, I don’t even know if I love them.)

Chikage: (As a kid, they were like a huge, detestable existence that loomed over me. Even after they left me, no matter how much time passed, they stayed imprinted on me, like a scar that can’t be removed…)

Chikage: (But, I get it now… I never have to look at this name again.)

Chikage: (It doesn’t exist anywhere in this world.)

Chikage: (...I wonder what this feeling is. It’s not really nostalgia, sadness, or relief.)

Chikage: (It’s like one small sense of closure… It feels like it’s fitting into my heart somewhere. Like a book fitting into a shelf where it belongs.)

Resident: 《If you have distant relatives around here, why not visit their graves?》

Chikage: 《--I’ll have to pass since I have a bus to catch. I need to get back to my family soon.》

Resident: 《Gotcha, have a good trip.》

Chikage: 《Thank you very much.》

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Chikage: (...I sort of doubt there will be anyone on at this time.)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

UC has entered the chat.

UC: I’m on my way to the hotel near the airport now.

taruchi: gg

UC: Ah, I see. We must be fairly close.

taruchi: well, think i’m somewhere between japan and u

taruchi: how’d ur new challenge go?

UC: How indeed. I do know that I’m glad I came here, at least.

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