#now i’m worried about fictional character’s high blood pressure

[wiseoldwine]

[opalesense]

Dick headcanons for Kaeya, Diluc, Childe, and Zhongli? 👀

dick headcanons

kaeya, diluc, childe, zhongli & gn!reader (NSFW)

1.1k words • ~9 min. read

warnings: cockwarming, blood mention, size difference, liyue arc spoilers

notes: SUPER delayed response (i’m so sorry) because i genuinely took a couple days to think about some fictional characters’ dicks??? i think it’s time to touch some grass?? ANYWAY i hope i did this request justice, i’ve never thought about this stuff in detail before :0

kaeya

i’ve always imagined that kaeya really has some LENGTH. he’s slightly above average so it’s not monstrously large, but he can definitely hit your sweet spots with ease or no effort at all.

it’s to the point where he can easily make bulges in your throat or your stomach. he absolutely loves watching his entire length disappear inside you and will either tease you about how he fits inside so well or how he’s so big that he can’t fit in you. just depends, of course.

cockwarming!!!! especially if you take his entire length in so well, expect him to ask if he can bury himself in you when the opportunity presents itself.

not super related to the topic but he’s the type to “fake bang” you if you’re bent over just to tease you. also the type to discretely grind his bulge against you when he’s in the mood, whether you’re hugging, cooking a meal, or even in the middle of a conversation with someone. he will not hesitate to let you know he wants you by letting you feel how hard you make him.

i don’t think many people talk about this but i imagine he’s uncircumcised... it’s going to sound so stupid but the “always hiding something” characterization... i’ll stop talking, you probably get it now HAHA

very well groomed down there! he truly does care about appearances and cleanliness after all. you never have to worry about poor hygiene with him in general. even though he loves doing dirty things with you there’s no doubt that he will always keep his dick as clean as possible. (shouldn’t everyone, though?)

he loves feeling tightness around his cock. whether it’s your hand pumping him or his form fitting pants restricting his bulge, firm pressure against that area can make his heart race. sometimes he can just be so needy for his cock to get attention.

diluc

despite being around average size he really has some girth on him! his cock is deliciously thick, that’s for sure.

twitchy! you can learn what he loves by the way his cock or his hips will twitch in excitement, almost as if it has a mind of its own. sometimes he can get so lost in the feeling and become speechless that those twitches would be your only indicator to keep doing what you’re doing.

his tip is so sensitive... if you lick that specific spot underneath his head or use your fingers to squeeze his tip, he will absolutely lose his mind. he also likes to shallow fuck you sometimes, loving the feeling of penetrating you over and over again.

that being said, expect him to usually take things slow and steady at first. he loves seeing the way his cock stretches you out, and especially loves seeing your hole gaping open to match his thickness. the feeling of pushing your walls apart because of how thick he is is always enough to make him weak at the knees.

he loves when you inflate his ego a little by using two hands to jerk him off rather than one. he especially loves when you use one hand to massage his balls, another sensitive spot of his. seeing you so eager and dedicated to please him will always send his heart pounding.

i like to imagine he has big, thick loads too to match his fat cock... he would definitely love dumping his cum inside you then letting it spill out so he can fuck it back inside again, penetrating you until your entrance is sore and covered in his load.

childe

this man is packing. he’s huge. nothing anyone can say will change my mind. out of this entire boy band group, this man packs the most. even his in game model has been proven to have such a fat cock that his bulge can literally be seen from behind???

it can tear you apart! hell, maybe it could make you bleed if he’s a touch too rough with you. but we all know that’s secretly what he would love to see... his bloodthirst might extend to intercourse too.

despite this, of course he would make sure your comfortable with his size first and would adjust accordingly in normal circumstances. he’s aware of how big he is and doesn’t want to make you feel genuine pain. maybe in other circumstances where he needs to take out his frustrations, he might not be so considerate...

if you gently touch or lick the veins that travel on the underside of his cock he goes a little feral! his veins are his weakness, just imagine the shaky moans he lets out as you tease him by tracing your finger along those veins... god help me

i believe in size kink foul legacy childe supremacy... his cock is already above average in size when he’s his normal self, but when he transforms you often tremble in borderline fear wondering how he could fit inside you. it’s mind boggling how the size difference is humanly possible.

(un?)fortunately, he can’t keep this form up for very long but rest assured he loves seeing the look on your face when he fucks you silly on such a fat cock, even if it’s just for mere moments.

that being said, expect childe to be super cocky about his size. his ego swells whenever you swoon over how big he is and he’s definitely the type of person to use this to his advantage by teasing and pushing your buttons.

zhongli

several sources have stated that rex lapis was able to change and alter his form freely... surely if zhongli could still do this even with his gnosis taken away, he would change his size to your preference if needed.

if you wanted his cock to rip you open, just say the word and he will do so accordingly. but if you’re feeling a little more mellow and wanted things to be gentle, he would gladly alter himself to be average size, or even smaller if you wanted.

but when i say he can alter his form, you best be sure that he can make it so he has two cocks at once. yes i believe in double cock zhongli supremacy... do with that information what you will.

since zhongli isn’t exactly human, his cock doesn’t exactly match that of a human’s either. in his most natural form without any changes being made, his cock is tougher and firmer than a normal human’s muscle. it doesn’t squish easy to the touch, but it’s not completely rock solid as you’d expect, which is quite ironic coming from a geo god.

you notice his veins on his cock, just like the rest of his body, are golden. they only actually show up when he’s reaching his climax where they’ll glow brighter if he’s getting closer to his orgasm. finally, with each pump of cum he lets out, these veins start pulsing with light until they eventually dim when he’s calming down from his high.

weird, huh?

[btschooseafic]

Hey you, what’s your dream?

Pairing: platonic!oc x ot7

Details: manager!oc, predebut/idolverse, partial BTS World!verse

Summary: Jungkook feels the pressure of being the main vocal in their debut song.

Warnings: This is a fictional story based on real events. The characters presented here are not the same as their real life counterparts. (TW: non-explicit talk of anxiety/ mental health treatment) [Masterlist]

Track 12: Golden Maknae

Talk To Me- Cavetown

“You don't have to be a prodigy to be unique

You don't have to know what to say or what to think”

“You want me to be the main vocal?” Jungkook stared wide eyed at Aviva. “But this is so sudden… I’m not ready…”

“That’s okay. It’s your debut song, so if you felt totally ready, I’d say you were being overconfident,” Aviva said, reaching over and hugging him.

“Our maknae!” Jimin clapped his hands and then jumped over, wrapping his arms around both of them as far as they would go. “Don’t worry about it too much! I’ll make sure to be a good lead!”

“But—but still…” Jungkook squirmed out of their arms. “Why am I the main vocal? There are other singers.”

“I asked everyone their opinion, and it was a nearly unanimous decision,” Aviva told him. Yoongi frowned.

“Nearly? Who didn’t vote for the maknae?”

Jungkook sighed. “I didn’t.”

“Oh.” Yoongi nodded. “I see.”

“I think it was the right choice,” Jin put in. “Jungkook-ah, your voice is the most stable, anyway.”

“Nice face, great body, and sings well too! Wow!” Taehyung shot him a thumb’s up. “You’re not our Golden Maknae for nothing!”

Jungkook swallowed, rubbing his throat.

“Oh, if your throat feels sore, I’ve got you covered,” Aviva said, pointing to a bag she placed on the couch.

“What’s in here?” Jin wondered, poking around. “Ah… I see… Certainly a lot of variety, manager-nim.” Everyone gathered around.

“I put my trust in modern medicine! I choose the ice-cold cooling spray!” Namjoon grabbed it.

“Lozenges should be plenty,” Yoongi thought, comparing two different packages.

“They’re different flavors,” Aviva told him.

“Yeah, but which one works better?” Yoongi wondered.

“And which one tastes better?” Jin wondered. Aviva frowned.

“Wait a minute, my Jungkookie senses are tingling.”

“Your what are what?” Jin asked, blinking at her.

“Spiderman reference,” Hoseok told him, doing the pose.

“Ah! Spiderman!” Jin nodded, also doing the pose.

“This happened a couple of times in LA,” Aviva said. “If I’m right—”

“Whoosh!”

“Whoosh!” Jin and Hoseok were pretending to spray each other with web.

Aviva shushed them. “Listen for a minute.” The sounds of music and Jungkook’s verse came floating towards them.

“Ah…” Jimin grimaced. “He’s practicing already.”

“This happened in LA?” Namjoon asked Aviva, his brow furrowing. “You didn’t mention it before.” Aviva shrugged.

“It was only a couple of times, when he got really stressed out about having trouble with a routine, he would sneak off and practice it himself until he got it down.”

“Ah, yeah, I’ve seen that.” Hoseok shook his head. “I’ve tried telling him not to stress so much, but…” Aviva frowned.

“Think about a time when you were really angry, or really sad, would telling you to ‘calm down’ or ‘cheer up’ help at all?”

Hoseok blinked. “I guess not.”

“I’d probably just get angrier out of spite,” Jimin thought.

“Yeah…” Aviva breathed out. “I know this isn’t talked about a lot around here, but it’s normal for you guys to face a lot of stressful, and emotional situations in this industry. It would be good to have some copping mechanisms prepared.”

Namjoon nodded slowly. “Have you talked to Jungkookie about that?”

“Yeah. I think that was the closest he’s ever come to yelling at me,” Aviva thought.

Namjoon blinked.

“Jungkookie, yell, at you? Wow, yeah, he must’ve been very stressed out.”

“He respects you a lot, Avi-noona,” Taehyung thought. “But maybe that just makes it harder for him sometimes, cause he wants to look good in front of you.”

“Hmmm…” Aviva ran her hand through her hair. “I wish I knew what to do.” She turned to Jin. “He’s been eating, right?”

“Seokjin’s Chicken House is open 24/7. We also provide delivery…” He winked at her. Aviva laughed.

“I might take you up on that sometime, when I don’t feel like cooking.”

Namjoon rested his hands on his hips. “Back to Jungkook-ah... I guess all we can do is be there for him. He says he’s not, but he’s capable of doing well, and then some.”

On the morning of the first day of recording, Jin invited Aviva over for breakfast.

“Wow, Jin-oppa…” She looked over the large spread. “This looks great!”

“Wait!” Namjoon said, as everyone moved to dig in. “Our Golden Maknae first!”

“What? Me?” Jungkook stared at him. Aviva frowned.

“Yeah.” Yoongi nodded. “Being main vocal is hard, so you need to eat more. I agree.”

“Did you sleep okay?” Aviva asked him as he picked up his chopsticks. His hands were shaking slightly. She pushed his hair back from his face. He was pale.

“I’m fine, noona,” Jungkook muttered.

“Soy-braised beef.” Hoseok held the platter out to him. “Let me fill your plate!” Everyone started piling things onto Jungkook’s plate.

“Thanks…everyone, but I sing better on an empty stomach,” Jungkook said, his pale face looking slightly green now. “I’m gonna go nap in the car…”

“At least have some water,” Aviva said, moving to pour some for him.

“I said I’m fine!” Jungkook snapped. “You don’t have to always baby me!” Everyone stared at him. He froze for a moment, and then ran out the door. Namjoon reached over and squeezed Aviva’s shoulder.

“You okay?”

She just grimaced.

“Huh? Jungkookie doesn’t want the meat?” Jimin stared at it hungrily.

“I guess he just wanted time al—Hey, Jimin-ah, you couldn’t even be a little patient?” Namjoon said, slapping his chopsticks down. Meat splattered over the table.

“Kim Namjoon-ssi!” Jin said, standing up. “Don’t waste food!”

“Ah, sorry, hyung! I’m clean it up.” Namjoon reached for a napkin and knocked over someone’s water, spilling it over Jin’s plate. Jin started cursing as Namjoon kept apologizing.

“Save the meat!” Taehyung said, grabbing the plate and munching on it steadily.

“Tae!” Jimin shouted. “Leave some for me!”

“If Jungkookie can pass on something this delicious, he must be ready!” Tae thought. “It means he’s completely focused on the song, and nothing else.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” Aviva said quietly. She felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned. “Yoongi-oppa?” She hoped he had something encouraging to say.

“You distract Tae while I grab the meat,” he told her.

Aviva left the boys to fight over the meat, checking the car to find Jungkook stretched out in the back.

“Time to go yet?” He said, his eyes still closed.

“Not yet,” she said. “They might be a while.” He let out a breath.

“Noona?”

“Hmm?”

“Sorry for shouting at you.”

“It’s fine,” she said. Jungkook made an uncertain noise.

While recording his section, Jungkook became fidgety, and his voice cracked. He coughed, and spluttered, looking pleadingly through the glass at Namjoon.

“Hyung,” he said, raspy. “I’m losing my voice…”

Aviva took Jungkook to a doctor, worried about his throat, while Jin drove the rest of the boys back to the dorm.

“Jeon Jungkook-ssi, I’m very concerned,” the doctor said.

Aviva’s jaw worked. She let out a breath.

“What are you concerned about, doctor?”

“Well, let’s just get this out of the way… I don’t see any physical issues with the vocal chords at all. His throat is exceptionally healthy. “

“Then…?” Aviva wondered.

“The patient is a 16-year-old boy, right? What’s going on that he’s so stressed out? Looking at these test results, I’d expect him to be a soldier in an active combat zone.” The doctor handed over a pile of papers. Aviva skimmed them, but there were a lot of words she didn’t understand.

She and Jungkook took the train and a bus back together. With Jungkook’s permission, Aviva took out a dictionary and began translating a bunch of the medical terms. “Cortisol, adrenaline… ah, I see why she was so worried.”

“Explain it to me,” Jungkook said. “Please.”

“Cortisol and adrenaline are hormones that the body releases during stressful situations. They can help you preform at a higher level than usual, but too much exposure can have a negative impact on your mind and body,” Aviva told him. Jungkook frowned, looking from the dictionary to her.

“It doesn’t say all that in here. Did you just happen to know it? Are you secretly a genius like Namjoon hyung?”

She shrugged. “I didn’t do particularly well in Chemistry. I mean, I never got to learn it properly, so I just studied it on my own for the test I took… it’s, um, like the equivalent of a high school diploma in the U.S, so if it makes me a little less under qualified there, you know? But, um, I know about these hormones in particular, cause I’ve had them on my blood tests before too, in high levels.”

Jungkook squeezed his hands into fists in his lap. “Jen-ah said… she said both of you have suffered from a lot of anxiety, just like me.”

“Yeah.” Aviva nodded. “We have.”

“She also said you read a lot of books on how to deal with that kind of stuff, and taught yourself coping techniques. I know you offered to teach me before, but… do you think you could try again? I mean, if you still want to.”

“Jungkook-ah, at the time, I probably should’ve seen a doctor, instead of taking it on myself,” Aviva admitted. “I’m not a professional.”

“I can’t,” Jungkook muttered. “If I’m going to be an idol, and that gets out… Anyway, I’m still a minor. My parents would have to pay for it, and I don’t want to worry them.” Aviva sighed. “Will you help me?”

“I’ll do my best, Jungkook-ah.” Over the rest of the bus ride, Aviva taught Jungkook a few breathing and grounding techniques.

Back at the dorm, Taehyung and Jimin immediately grabbed Jungkook, dragging him into one of the rooms. “Don’t worry, we’ll take care of you!” Tae said.

“Aviva-yah,” Namjoon said. “How is he?”

“Well, Jungkook-ah said it was okay for me to share this with you, but don’t go spreading it around, okay?” After they nodded, she told them about his test results.

“Fuck,” Yoongi said.

“We fucked up,” Hoseok agreed. “I guess the things we thought were supportive were just putting even more pressure on him.”

“We have to remember, he’s only sixteen,” Aviva said.

Namjoon rubbed his neck. “This is my fault. He’s talented and he works hard, so I kept pushing him…”

“We all played a hand,” Yoongi said. “We’re a team.”

Namjoon smiled tensely at him. “Yeah, hyung, but I’m supposed to be the leader. So I should take responsibility.”

“Should we go rescue him from Jimin-ah and Taehyungie?” Aviva wondered. “Ah, but maybe he’ll think I’m babying him again…”

Jin patted her on the back. “We’re all worried. We just want to help.”

“Yeah, but…” Yoongi shook his head, looking at Aviva. “You told us there was no physical injury, and I still saw Jimin-ah grab the first aid kit.”

“At least they’re sure to shower him with lots of attention!” Hoseok said cheerfully. Then he wilted. “Wait, maybe that would just stress him out more…”

“He needs to build some confidence,” Yoongi thought. “But how?”

“If we could just get him singing, but not thinking so much about it,” Jin thought. “Ah, wait!” He snapped his fingers. “I’m a genius! I have the perfect idea.” He tilted his head. “Well, maybe.” He shrugged. “Eh, it’s worth a try.”

Namjoon stared at him. “…You’re gonna give me whiplash, hyung.”

“Avi-yah.” Jin put his hands on her shoulders. “I will draw Jimin-ah and Taehyung-ah out, so you go talk to Jungkookie and work your manager-magic until I give you the signal.” He started pushing her down the hall.

“Manager-magic?” Namjoon wondered.

“What’s the signal?” Aviva wanted to know.

“You’ll know it when you see it!” Jin said excitedly.

Aviva waited until Jimin and Taehyung ran out of the room, shooting her thumbs up and grins, before running off again towards the kitchen. Aviva knocked on the door uncertainly. “Jungkook-ah? Are you sleeping? Can I come in?”

“Ah, noona… okay. It’s a little embarrassing, but I think I could use a hand with these.”

“What’s embarrass—” Aviva dissolved into giggles when she saw the bandages wrapped around his head and his arm.

“Ah, I’m not sure if they were actually trying to help, or just mess with me, but…” He struggled with one of the bandages. Aviva sat next to him on the bed.

“May I…?” She reached towards him. He nodded. He watched her as she worked out the knot, her lip pinched between her front teeth as she concentrated.

“Noona, can I ask you… those things you were nervous about in the past, the things that gave you test results like mine, and made you want to learn those techniques… were you able to get passed it?”

“Hmm, well, there were a couple of different situations,” she said, unwrapping the bandage from his head and moving to the one on his arm. “One situation that used to give me a lot of anxiety was the idea of moving to South Korea. In general, I think I handled that pretty well.” Jungkook nodded.

“You’re one of the strongest people I know,” he said. She smiled.

“Thank you. I know you mean it when you say it, but I don’t think I’ve ever felt that way myself. Some days I struggle to do even the bare minimum.” She finished taking the bandage off of his arm and twisted it into a ball. “Another situation I was anxious about was that High School test I mentioned earlier. I passed, but… I didn’t do very well. Chances are, if I ever want to take any classes in the U.S. again, I would need to retake that test first. Some days, you don’t win.”

Jungkook flopped down onto his back, staring at the ceiling.

“So you’re saying either I give up, or I just keep trying until I get it right?”

She lay down next to him. “I didn’t say that. I mean, you could do that, but it sounds very tiring, Jungkookie.”

He turned on his side, looking at her. “It is. Is there a third option?”

“I don’t know. But there’s usually an alternative route, you just have to find it. If it’s a goal you want to reach badly enough, you should keep trying until you get it, but maybe try a few different ways?” She sighed. “I don’t know, JK, I’m still figuring this out.” He smiled.

“That’s one thing I like about you, noona, you’re not afraid to admit when you don’t have the answers. Right now, I don’t know what to do. I really want to be the main vocalist, I really want to do well, but… I don’t know how. How do I find the alternative route?” Suddenly there was a knock on the window. They both jumped, Jungkook moving slightly in front of Aviva. “Burglars?”

“Um, I don’t think so. I think it might be…” She walked over to the window and pulled open the curtain, rolling her eyes when she saw Jin striking a pose on the other side. Jungkook snickered.

“What’s he doing?”

“I’ve got no clue. Let’s find out.” Aviva pulled open the window. “Oppa, I am very interested to see where you’re going with this.”

“Prepare to be amazed, manager-nim, and Jeon Jungkook-ah!” Jin said, striking another pose.

Aviva sniffed. “Something smells good.”

“Why, thank you, Namjoon-ah’s minding it for me, though, so we’d better hurry before he lets it burn. Come join us in the backyard, okay?” Jin rushed off.

Jungkook and Aviva exchanged a bemused look before rushing for the door.

The boys had used a plank of wood and some crates to fashion together a low table, placing a grill on top of it, where they were cheerfully cooking meat and vegetable skewers. Someone had strung Christmas lights up overhead, giving the backyard a cozy and warm atmosphere.

“You have to add onions!” Hoseok was saying. “Onions are the best when grilled.”

“It’s a miracle cure!” Taehyung singsonged. “When you’re feeling down, you go go full speed ahead to where the meat is!”

“The guest of honor is late!” Namjoon said, grinning at Jungkook.

“Come on, come on!” Jimin said, running over to them, grabbing him by the arm and pulling him over to sit. Aviva hovered awkwardly in the background for a moment before Jin caught her eye and waved her over. She sat in an empty spot between him and Yoongi.

“What do you think?” Jin asked, turning to Jungkook and motioning at everything.

“…Looks good,” Jungkook admitted, a small smile slipping onto his face. The other boys cheered. Hoseok started pouring everyone a cup of beer while Jin started making up a plate for Aviva.

“So eat and cheer up!” Taehyung said, nudging Jungkook’s arm with his.

“Yeah, eat and hang in there so we can practice even harder!” Hoseok said. Aviva frowned at him.

“Hobi…” She said warningly.

“I’m fine,” Jungkook told her, actually looking like he meant it for once.

“Let’s eat until we die!” Yoongi said, grabbing another piece of meat.

“Eat until we die?” Jin repeated. “Don’t you mean eat until we debut?”

Yoongi snorted. “Wait, before we eat,” Taehyung said, ignoring Yoongi’s pointed chewing. “Shouldn’t we say something?”

“Oh yeah, a toast,” Hoseok agreed. “We can’t skip that.”

“I always do it… so today should be the maknae’s turn,” Namjoon suggested. Everyone cheered again. Jungkook waved his hand dismissively.

“You should say something, since it’s your party,” Jimin agreed.

“If you don’t have anything prepared, you can say Seokjin-hyung thanks for the delicious meat!” Jin offered.

“Or something like Taehyung-hyung, I love you!” Tae suggested. Jin laughed.

“Ah…” Jungkook stared down at his drink. “I’m sorry, for being the worst one in the studio—” Everyone interrupted him with noises of protest.

“What do you mean? Don’t say that!” Jimin whined.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Jin agreed.

Namjoon insisted Jungkook had done so well that his ears had melted and fused together. Hoseok played along, asking him if he needed to go to the hospital.

“Or maybe Aviva-yah can kiss it better?” He cooed. Even in the dark they could see Namjoon’s face flush.

“You kiss it better yourself,” Aviva said, tired of his antics. Hoseok looked at Namjoon thoughtfully as everyone laughed.

“Jungkookie, you’re the main vocal. If you keep saying you didn’t do well, what does that make us?” Taehyung wondered.

Jungkook looked thoughtful.

“If Jungkook-ah can’t think of anything to say, maybe he should just serenade us, melt our ears,” Namjoon put in.

Jungkook started to sing, with the others gradually joining in. By the second chorus, even Aviva had joined, so quietly that only Yoongi and Jin heard and glanced at her, grinning.

“You’ve got a nice voice,” Yoongi said in her ear, making her shiver slightly. “Are you sure you’re not the one who should be debuting?”

“Shut up!” She whispered, elbowing him. He winced.

“Watch the shoulder,” he muttered.

“Sorry!”

Aviva stayed over early into the morning, helping clean the yard so the landlady wouldn’t yell at them.

“Well, these two are useless,” Namjoon thought, his voice muffled as Taehyung squished his cheeks, serenading him. Jimin was hanging off of Joon’s back like a monkey.

“Send them to bed,” Aviva told him.

“Yeah.” Namjoon gave Jimin a piggy-back ride. Taehyung trailed after them, still singing.

“Ah, I think Hobi-hyung is done for as well,” Jungkook (only slightly drunk himself), spoke up.

“I can tuck him in,” Aviva offered.

“Yay!” Hoseok hugged her tightly, pressing her face against his chest, tucking his chin over the top of her head.

“Ugh, Hobi, can’t breath!” Aviva squeaked.

“Avi’s comin’ to bed with me!” Hoseok gloated to Yoongi, sticking his tongue out. “Take that, hyung!” Yoongi glared at him.

“Jungkook-ah,” he said firmly.

“Got it.” Jungkook grabbed Hoseok’s arm and peeled him off of her with surprising strength. “Come on, hyung, don’t do anything you’ll regret in the morning.”

“No regrets!” Hoseok cried, slinging his arm around the younger boy’s shoulders.

“You okay?” Yoongi asked Aviva, a little concern leaking through his usual blank expression. Aviva smiled.

“It’s fine, Hobi’s always clingy, even when he’s not drunk.”

“Yeah, I guess…” Yoongi was still frowning.

“Chingu!” Jin called. “Where are those garbage bags?”

“Eh, you used all of them already?” Yoongi groaned. “Seriously?” He took a full bag and dragged it over to the door. “I’ll get more.” He leaned close to Aviva. “Keep an eye on hyung, he’s drunker than he looks.”

“Okay,” Aviva said. “Yoongi…”

“Hmm?”

“Are you okay carrying all that? Your shoulder—”

“It’s fine,” he said tensely, sighing when she stared at him. “No, for real. Physical therapy helped a lot.”

“That’s great.” Aviva gave him a quick hug before going back to Jin.

“So…” Jin hummed as he cleaned, his neck flushed from the alcohol. “You and Yoongi-yah…?”

“What about Yoongi-oppa?” Aviva asked innocently.

“Well, isn’t that the stereotypical plot, the group members all fighting over the same girl?” Jin thought. Aviva frowned.

“You watch too many dramas.”

“Maybe.” Jin shrugged. “I’m just saying I wouldn’t want that to happen, especially before we’ve even debuted.”

“Jin-oppa, they just like to joke around, they’re not seriously interested in me.”

“Aish, Aviva-yah, you aren’t that oblivious, are you?” Jin looked her in the eye, suddenly looking a lot less drunk than he had a moment ago. She ignored the heat rising in her face, holding the eye contact without flinching.

“It wouldn’t happen. I’m a good friend to have, but as far as… I wouldn’t be a good girlfriend.” She’d only had a sip of beer with the cheers earlier, she wondered if it was possible to drunk off of one sip? Or was she overtired? Because these were things she had never spoken about, not even with Soonyoung or Jen. These were things she didn’t even like to think about in the privacy of her own mind. “There are things I don’t… I won’t…” She let out a breath, letting her words fade away.

“… I’m sorry, Viva-yah, I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings,” Jin said, his expression softening. “I think I might’ve been too harsh.”

[carriagelamp]

September Book Roundup, back-to-school edition aka The Season Of Red apparently?

Here is a selection of the books I’ve read this month. Summer is over, so the little bit of brain power I had managed to scrape together is quickly disintegrating, so enjoying the hodge podge of stories.

Binti

This was probably my favourite book that I read this month. It’s a novella I first heard about hear on tumblr and went to find a copy in my library. I have since bought the collected trilogy so I can read book two and three at my leisure because it was honestly just that friggin cool. This is exactly my flavour of scifi and I tend to be very very picky about the scifi I consume. It’s about a girl named Binti, a member of the Himba people (a real group of indigenous people from Namibia). They are a people well known for their mathematical and technical prowess, but due to their strong connection to their homeland and the earth they choose not to travel through space like so many other humans do. However, when Binti secures a position at Oomza University, the greatest university in the galaxy, she chooses to go against her family’s wishes and traditions in order to set out into space to attend. Everything is ruined though when her spaceship is attacked by a hostile alien race and everyone is killed but Binti, who must rely on all her intellect and abilities if she wants any chance at survival.

A seriously cool book with great world building – it really successfully introduces readers not only to the fictional scifi world and races of the novel but also to the culture and traditions of the Himba people. It’s a quick read, and feels like a cross between Dead Space and Tamora Pierce. Would totally recommend a read.

Fake Blood

A Canadian graphic novel. It was a goofy cute read. It’s about an awkward group of friends in middle school, and one boy with a crush on one of the girls in his class. Knowing her love for vampire stories, AJ decides, like any self-respecting middle schooler, to try to pretend he’s a vampire. Naturally nothing goes right and some things go wrong in unexpected ways. It’s funny and cute. Nothing amazing but it was a cozy evening read.

The Last Book On The Left

I’ve been listening to this podcast a lot since my friend recommended it to me and finally decided to read their book. For those that don’t know, The Last Podcast On The Left is a immaculately researched comedy podcast that’s hosted by Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski, and explores the darker realms of human nature. Ghosts, paranormal, aliens, cults, and of course serial killers. In this book they collected several of their biggest name serial killer series, did some renewed research, and put together a book that is both informative, irreverent, gross, and very funny, complete with some really amazing illustrations by Tom Neely. A very cool read (and listen, if you decide to check out the podcast instead), I really love how they tell these stories without idolizing or romanticizing the people they talk about. Their humour always makes sure you know exactly how much of a pathetic loser these people are. Fantastic true crime, from someone who has never really felt the need to read about true crime before.

Midnight Sun

I won’t harp on this one, everyone is already going to firmly have their opinions here. I grew up on Twilight, I was reading them as they came out, and I still love them. Were they dumb? Oh my god yes. Did they have problems? Sure, they came out in 2005 it was part and parcel. Were they also a really fun for a thirteen year old to read? Absolutely, I don’t regret it. Sometimes teenage girls should just to get like things without being mocked.

Anyway, I am off my soapbox now (can you tell this is still a raw spot for me?) I unironically loved this book! Getting to see Edward’s perspective was really cool, and since he can read minds it essentially let you get the perspective of everyone else around him too. The Cullens family is a great set of characters so it was really cool to see more of them, and I was very impressed by how Stephenie Meyers took a YA romance she wrote in 2005 and was able to make it feel updated and more appropriate for a 2020 audience even though she couldn’t actually change any of the events themselves. So fans of Twilight, don’t be ashamed, go read Midnight Sun and have the shameless fun you deserve. Is there anymore appropriate book for the bizarre ass year that was 2020 than a return to this goofy nonsense?

The Paperbag Princess

(and Up, Up, Down, and Robert Munsch in general)

I’m back in schools so I’m back to reading children’s book! And honestly, and of you that don’t occasionally sit down and read a kids book out loud don’t know what you’re missing. Anyway, Robert Munsch is a Canadian author, and one of my all-time favourite children’s authors. It surprised me to learn he isn’t as well known in the States apparently? I don’t know if that’s changed or not, but he is a Canadian staple for a good reason, his books have ridiculous premises, are specifically written to be fun to read out loud, and have beautiful, involved, and hilarious illustrations. The Paperbag Princess is one of my absolute favourites, and as a kid it was one of the first stories I had ever read where a princess is the one saving the prince… and then telling the prince to piss off when it turns out he’s a jerk. Up, Up, Down is another favourite I reread this month, because it’s just hilarious funny and makes a fantastic read aloud with kids. Some other Robert Munsch I reread this month include: Mmm, Cookies, More Pies, Ribbon Rescue, Just One Goal, and Andrew’s Loose Tooth. You just cannot go wrong, for kids or adults.

Pit Pony

Another Canadian staple while I was growing up. If you’re a young adult know who went through the Canadian elementary school system, you probably had your entire heart ripped out and stepped on by this chapter book. It’s a historical fiction that looks at the economic hardship, debt slavery, child labour, and animal abuse that was tied to coal mining in the Maritimes. Finding a copy was harder than I would have expected give how pervasive it was a decade or so back, but reading it again was a pure shot of nostalgia.

Seeking Refuge

A graphic novel written by a German-born Canadian about a Jewish girl who flees Nazi-occupied Austria by way of Kindertransport to become a child refuge in England. It follows her as she is moved from host family to host family as the war continues to pick up and gradually makes it’s way to the United Kingdom as well. It’s very poignant and the pencil-sketch illustrations are an interesting change to a lot of the graphic novels that are out right now. This story is still aimed at a younger audience, so it never gets too brutal but it still is a hard hitting story, especially with everything else going on right now.

Silver Spoon #9/10

I know I’ve talked about these books before, but my library got some more since I last read them, so I’m continuing my way through the series. It’s about a teenaged boy who, after having a breakdown from the pressure he was feeling to study and succeeded, decided not to attend an academic, urban high school, but rather to apply for an agricultural high school so he could live in the dorms, far away from his parents. The series just gets more and more heartwarming as it continues. It’s all about failure and overcoming and how worth can be measured in different ways, and about family and understanding each other and coming together… but also about the realities of farming which aren’t always very nice, especially when it comes to finances and survival. It’s written by the mangaka behind Fullmetal Alchemist but I’ll be honest… I think I like this series more. It is honestly one of my all time favourite manga series, it just has so much heart.

Ruby Finds A Worry

aka Ruby’s Worry apparently? I can’t figure out why this has more than one title. I actually read it in French not English, so for me it was Le Souci de Calie. Regardless, this was a nice little picture book for talking about worries and anxieties with children… especially with the amount of Covid stress a lot of kids are dealing with. It explains in a really nice way how talking about anxieties are often the best way to make them more manageable, and how pretending nothing is wrong can just let it grow bigger and bigger. A good explanation for kids and possible a good reminder for adults.

War of the Realms: Journey Into Mystery

I read this because the Mcelroy family wrote it so I figured Hey! Why not give it a go! And I’m glad I did. Their brand of humour was all over it, and it made the story a delight to read. I don’t follow all of Marvel’s weirdness, so I didn’t actually know most of the characters (Miles and Kate were actually the only two I was familiar with) but they do a great job of introducing the characters and making them all feel distinct and interesting. I absolutely adore the Dog of Gods (God of Dogs) who is a very very good boy. And Miles is absolutely always a delight so you can’t really lose. It’s a single book that I think is a part of a larger plotline that I have zero interest in. This book is a fine one to read though if you don’t mind jumping into the middle of the action and just getting swept along for the ride. Also Mcelroys!

Witcher Omnibus

Bleh. Absolutely not worth it. All the misogyny and Dumb Bullshit that I hate in the original books and from video games in general. Honestly, Witcher III did way better by its characters than most of these short stories. The only one worth reading in it is Curse Of Crows – that one was actually really enjoyable, probably because it was about Ciri and had an actual fucking woman on the writing team. (Seriously guys what were you thinking with Fox Children that’s literally just a story from Season of Storms but done worse. Fuck off.) If you like The Witcher, go read Curse of Crows and skip every other story in this book.

Billy Stuart: Les Zintrépides #1

Another French (Quebecois) book I read, though I believe you can get it in English as well (Billy Stuart and the Zintrepids). It’s a chapter book / graphic novel hybrid, and was honestly a fairly fun little read. It’s in a similar vein to Geronimo Stilton but done much better in my opinion. The humour was funnier, the characters felt less like caricatures, and while it still used stylized fonts it was also less intrusive and eye-strainy than the Stilton books. Also when the story suddenly pivots into the main adventure and mystery of the series? Fantastic. Was not expecting a hell-beast to appear part way through the story. Very interested in reading more.

Over all, it was cute and funny, and I can see it being a good next step when children have read their fill of the Stilton series and want something similar but possibly a bit more involved and coherent.

[dreamyjoons]

Last Light ⥋ 01

⥋ Alone was how you preferred it. People came with feelings, feelings get you killed - and death in the new world wasn’t permanent. But not everything is avoidable, and Kim Taehyung is no exception.

Genre/Warnings: zombie apocalypse!au, slight gore, blood, swearing, some angst.

Future chaps will include violence, character death, angst, smut, some gore, etc. You know what apocalypses entail. But there will be some good too, fluff and jokes, some calm in the eye of the storm.

Words: 3k

A/N: finally finally, i’m getting around to posting this. Zombie fiction is in my blood, dudes, my favourite genre of anything ever. I can’t wait to begin this series! Thanks to my girl Lucy (underthejinfluence) for pushing me to finally do this. I hope you’re all excited to join me on this journey.

⥋ Chapter 01: tarmac

Masterlist

An engine splutters off in the street below.

The noise bounces off every silent surface, echoing through your small end of town.

You hit the floor, a string of silent curse words falling from your lips.

Carefully you shuffle to the window, debris rolling awkwardly under your feet as you peer into the street below.

You blow out a steadying breath as you use two fingers to slowly separate the blinds, eyes scanning the once deserted street.

You follow the trail of smoke, passing your eyes over the weave of cars and debris that littered the street. Smashed glass and blood are splattered across the street. It wasn’t an unusual sight any more, the chaos mere background noise to what you were on the lookout for.

You see two men climb out of the car parked haphazardly at the end of the road, both tall, both holding weapons. A brunette and a dirty blond, decent athletic builds, both clutching heavy melee weapons. Definitely not people you wanted to cross.

Mercifully they were facing away from you, jogging towards the looted stores a little way up the high street. And by the looks of it, they had left their vehicle unlocked.

You snuck back from the window, grabbing your rucksack and stuffing your recently looted items into the raggedy pockets. The pack had lasted you decently long enough, but soon it was gonna fall apart. But that was a bridge you had to cross when you get to it. Now wasn’t the time to get bogged down in the future when the present was so delicate.

You’d made it this far without being cornered by people, you weren’t about to change that now.

Tucking an ugly-looking can of prunes in your rucksack, you pull the cord and knot it tightly. You hoist it up on your back and pull your bandana back over your mouth and nose, ready to face the world outside. Well, ready was an overstatement, but needs must. You pick up the hockey stick you had recently looted and turn it over in your hands, letting it sit comfortably.

If you were careful, this would be a clean getaway, no one would even know-

Gunshots.

A gasp rips through you, panic seizing in your chest. You sink to your knees, the feeling of liquid seeping into the leg of your tatty jeans.

Your eyes subconsciously move to the source of the damp, wincing when your eyes come across the mess.

He had been young. Barely out of his teens, dirty blond hair and skinny. A crumpled suit and tie sit on his figure, good quality and well fitted.

It had only taken three blows to kill him. Again.

This was the reality now. The dead had refused to stay down, and the country was engulfed in less than a week. Who knew what happened to the rest of the world.

Those left alive that hadn’t been bit and turned had grown cruel. It was less dog eat dog, and more human eat human.

You were determined not to be caught up in it.

Days had stretched into weeks, weeks into months and before long time wasn’t something to record, but just survive. There was nothing left of your family, your friends, the life you once knew. The only thing that you had left was a heightened sense of anxiety, a hockey stick, and an unappealing tin of prunes.

And now, a difficult escape.

You could hear two raised voices. The men must have realised how dumb it was to shoot their gun, the noise ricochetting off the barren street.

At least, there was no-

Moans. Unmistakable and blood-curling. Dozens of them.

You stagger to your feet and sprint to the window, all worries of subtlety gone. You rip open the blinds and scan the street, watching as a shambling herd of the undead move into the outskirts of the street.

The summer heat had rotted their bodies, a haze seemed to follow the falling-apart mass as they shuffled closer to your location. You knew the smell that rolled off them. You’d been too close to the nightmares more times than you cared to count. But there was never time to focus, just the imperative need to escape. You rip your eyes away, heart thudding in your chest.

“Fuck!” You shout, turning and sprinting to the door.

The noise of the engine must have drawn them in your general direction. The gunshot signed your death warrant.

There was no way you could stick around - once you’re trapped, they will find you. And no matter how much your stamina had improved since everything had imploded, you didn't think fighting off twenty of the undead bastards was entirely possible.

You leap over the oozing body and scramble down the stairs, throwing open the door and stumbling into the street, hockey stick brandished. You draw in a staggered breath through your bandana, heart beating erratically in your chest.

The herd hadn’t gotten too close, but you were rapidly running out of options. You scan the area for the best route out of the town, over high fences and back-to-back buildings.

Then, in the midst of unnatural and close rumbles of growls, you spot it: the vehicle, the one the men had left unlocked. You didn’t have time to play nice, it was either them or you.

But then you spot them, two figures jogging up the high street, weapons in hand. The smaller one slows, finally noticing you. You use his hesitation as your moment to strike.

You begin sprinting, ignoring the immoral guilt that builds in the depth of your stomach. Seemingly noticing your plan, the blonde one shouts at his companion. The smaller brushes him aside, tearing towards the car.

You had to get to the car. It was the only way to safely get away from the horde for good. It was the only way to survive, and if that meant living with the guilt of leaving survivors behind… well. You’ve had to survive worse. They would too.

Your feet smack loudly on the tarmac as you run, the sound drowned out by the shambling horror emitting from the undead.

You’re not far from the car, and the men are slowed as they weave through cars and debris in the street. Escape is hot in your veins, the tentative touch of escape brushing on your skin.

But then one of the undead staggers out from an alley, and you’re blindsided.

It catches you by the shoulder, sending you both tumbling into the debris-covered road. Your skin burns from skidding on the ground but you force yourself to ignore it, rolling away from the creature. It lands next to you, oblivious to the noise it’s brittle bones makes as it hits the tarmac. Its fingers grasp at your jeans, clawing itself closer to you, teeth gnashing angrily.

You crawl away, getting just enough distance to raise your hockey stick and bring it down on the creature’s temple. There’s a loud crack, and the grip around your leg loosens. You kick the undead mass away from you, ignoring the dark congealed splatters of blood that coats your clothes and hockey stick.

The gargle that was forced out of what was left of its mouth ceased, but you didn’t have time to celebrate your victory. The mass of bodies were close, only twenty yards away and shambling closer. And the stench they brought with them was pungent, threatening to make your eyes water.

The adrenaline courses through you as you race back to your feet, stinging plaguing your skin. You trip, body aching as you push on, pulse thumping in your ears.

But you force one foot in front of the other, hurtling yourself at the car.

Your fingers graze the plastic trim of the handle when you’re shoved by the shoulder, slamming you back into the rear door.

Fear seizes you as you claw desperately at your hockey stick, only to be met with dark eyes. Living, angry dark eyes.

One of the men stands opposite you, a frown so deep on his face that you thought he was going to kill you there and then. Blood splatter is dotted over his smooth skin, freckles hidden under the dark drops. An angry mist settles over his face, along with something all too recognisable - fear. Your lower lip trembles, but it remains hidden behind your bandana.

“What do you think you’re doing?” He snaps, furious eyes probing your face. His voice is low, dangerously low, striking you right in the centre of your chest.

“Trying to survive-“

“Tae, we gotta go. Let her in-“

“No way, Joon. She was gonna take the car! Why should we?”

“Make your mind up, or we’ll all die!” You shout, bashing his hand from your shoulder and eyeing the horde over his shoulder. They weren’t far - just a few moments and they’d be on you.

“Taehyung, we save lives first.”

The angry one, Taehyung, stares at you, eyes burning bright as he sizes you up. You hold firm, determined not to buckle under his pressure.

“Get in.”

He steps back from you, ripping the driver door open and jumping in. You don’t hesitate, opening the door and throwing yourself inside, your rucksack digging into your back and your hockey stick propped against the door. The other man, Joon, gets in the back beside you, heavy pants palling from his lips.

Taehyung turns on the engine, the vehicle slowly rumbling to life. You spin, staring out of the dusty rear window as hands slam onto the glass, making you cry out.

The car lurches forward as shadows begin to cover the windows. Your heart is in your throat as you heave in a breath, eyes scanning around you as the rev of the engine drowns out the hollow groans that surrounded the car.

Soon you’re flying, Taehyung throwing the car through the gears as he tears through the streets. The growls growl distant, and you stare out of the rear window, your breathing slowing beginning to even out.

As the adrenaline slowly begins to wear off, you feel the scrapes and aches from your knock in the road. Your joints ached, lack of sleep pulled tightly at your bones, your lungs burned from exertion.

“God that was way too close.” The long man next to you sighed, slumping in the chair and huffing in a breath. He virtually slides off his seat, hands slapping across his chest.

Despite yourself, you smile, watching as he squishes in the tight space. You were almost giddy, the ebb of adrenaline and the taste of survival swirling in your mind. You promptly stop the noise when you see Taehyung jerk awkwardly in the front seat, harsh eyes glaring at you through the rear-view mirror.

“Thank you. For not leaving me.” You state, straightening in your seat.

“It was the right thing to do.” Joon shrugs in the seat, though the move is jerky.

“Kim Namjoon.” He smiles, thick lips stretched across his teeth, dimples poking out as he reaches a hand to you to shake.

You’re floored at how nice he was being, and concern prickled under your skin. You gripped your hockey stick tighter, ready to strike, as you reached out to shake his hand. But all he does is bounce your hands a few times, his big warm hand enveloping yours.

You want to trust him, you realise. You know you shouldn’t, you know that you shouldn’t be in the car with them like this. But your gut twists, the chance at finding someone decent in the world too good to be true.

“Y/N.” You state, lips forming half a smile.

“Nice to meet another living breathing human. Up front is Taehyung.” He gestures, finally wriggling up into a sitting position.

You flick your eyes to Taehyung and smile weakly at him. All he does is meet your eye for the briefest second before turning his harsh gaze back on the road, thick brow furrowed.

“Charming. Sorry, he’s not usually this cold. Half our group are still missing and-”

“Namjoon! We can’t trust her, don’t say anything else.”

“This is about humanity, Tae. Stop being-”

“Look, uh, Namjoon. Honestly, it’s okay. You don’t know me, I don’t know you. It’s really fine.” You assure him.

He offers you a sad look before giving Taehyung a withering one. He looks at you in the rear-view mirror, and you do your best to avoid his icy glare. You didn’t want to be here any more than he did.

You flick your eyes away from him, letting them land in your lap. Bloody covers nearly every inch of your jeans, tears from your skid on the road gaping across your knees and thighs. Every inch stings, but now wasn’t the time to lick your wounds. You needed to be safe before you let your guard down. And that meant being alone.

“Look, thanks for helping me out there, and I’m sorry for trying to take your car but we all have to survive somehow. If you can just pull over, I can get out anywhere and-”

“Alone?” Namjoon gasps, and you look at him, eyebrow raised.

“Yeah.”

“Are you sure? We have plenty of space-”

“Joon, no way!” Taehyung shouts from the front, his voice dangerously low. His fingers are gripped tightly over the wheel, knuckles paling under the pressure.

The world whips past you, the outcrops of the town faded into motorway and forest that surround it. The car moves fast, Taehyung careful to avoid debris and abandoned cars that litter the motorway. The evening light slowly creeps over the world that surrounds you, and if you keep your eyes up, it's a pretty sight.

“No, it’s fine.” You say eventually, you stab of offence rippling through you. You would do the same in his situation, but it still stung.

However you realise that these men didn’t seem so bad. At least, not right now. You shuffle in your seat, your rucksack digging awkwardly into your back.

“But you’re alone!” Namjoon shouts, spinning in his seat to face you.

“Yeah, I’m just fine. I’ve been on my own since the beginning, I can handle it now.” You smile sadly at him, and you watch as his face appears crestfallen.

“But that’s not right.” Namjoon whispers.

“Truly, it’s fine. You’re the first survivors I’ve met in the last two months who haven’t tried to kill me or whatever. I don’t want to wait and see if you will.”

Your words are harsher than you intend, but the truth rings painfully loud. A silence settles in the car, the thoughts and sights you had all seen in such a short time playing out. The world was different, harsh and broken.

The minutes tick by, the occasional undead falling behind as you plough past. The sky dips into a deep purple, the dark whispers of the night coming into view.

Taehyung shifts in front of you, and you meet his stoic gaze, and for the slightest of moments, he seemed softened, his humanity peeking through his world-beaten shell. But it passes in an instant, his eyebrows creasing as he closes himself off once more.

The car begins to slow, the steady rumble doing little to still the worry that swirls into your gut.

Yes, these men are strangers. But inside that car, the chaos of the world outside was removed, forgettable. People as a whole couldn’t be trusted, but a certain person or two could be.

You move slow, the hockey stick tightly held in your fist as you move for the door handle.

“Look, you don’t have to survive this alone-“

“Namjoon-“

“No please, Y/N. Let me finish. If you do decide that you don’t want to be alone, I'll come back here at noon for the next two days. If you change your mind, I’ll be waiting.”

“Joon! That’s not for you to decide.” Taehyung eyes you warily before looking back at his friend, concern pulled tight on his face.

“Tae, you’re not this heartless.” Namjoon spits, anger bubbling hotly on his face.

“Someone has to be.” He mouths, facing forward again, hands balling into fists on the wheel. You swallow thickly, sliding to the edge of your seat.

“That’s kind of you, but really. I’ll be okay.”

Namjoon huffs, lips pulled tight as he examines your face. But you hold firm, and finally he relents, letting out a sigh.

“I’ll still wait but… good luck. Good luck with everything.”

You nod at him, a pang resonating through your chest. You cast a quick eye around the area, eyes hovering over the random outcrop of cars and overturned tanker that sat awkwardly across the central reservation. You open the door, the warmth of the evening hitting you like a wall.

“Thanks for not leaving me.” You offer weakly to Taehyung.

He clears his throat awkwardly, moving to meet your eyes in the mirror. A frown crosses his face, his deep gaze locked with yours.

“Don’t.. uh, die.” He offers, deep voice barely above a whisper.

You feel Namjoon wither on the seat beside you, an exasperated sigh leaving him. But you smile, despite yourself.

“Yeah, you too.”

Finally you force yourself out of the car, shutting the door behind you and walking off the road down the grassy embankment. You couldn’t look back, they were offering you something you couldn’t accept. Not in this world, not any more.

The engine rumbles away from you, and you know you need to get moving. But something tugs at you.

People. The only people you’d seen in two months that hadn’t shot at you had just… driven away. And although you’ve survived for so long on your own, the pit of loneliness that had made a home in your chest seemed to grow.

But you stamp that feeling down as far as you can. Feelings will get you killed.

So you grip your hockey stick tighter and take a deep, steadying breath. With staggering finality, you sprint towards the trees, the sound of engines now a distant memory.

[we-want-mini-mini]

Because I fell in love with the previous prompt/oneshot I wrote about an OC falling into the DC universe (specifically Gotham) and wants to avoid the Vigilantes/Wayne and Co but fucking fails at it (or succeeds, who knows).

This one shot is about—

The Reluctant Executive Assistant To Lex Luthor, Who Also Is A Supervillian

Masterlist | Pervious Post Regarding This Oneshot

Warnings! Strong language, mentions of disassociation, mentions of body dysphoria, non-graphic description of violence, probably OOC Lex Luthor, shitty spelling and grammar oh my!

LIA WONDERED WHAT SHE DID TO ANGER THE UNIVERSE, what she did so heinous, so deplorable, so bastardly to be punished in this way. She reclined into her plush sofa, her eyed glazed over, as they seemingly stared beyond the cream colored walls of her small Metropolis apartment. On her coffee table, laid a stack of papers. Papers that were at least a couple inches thick, filled with long winded explanations, language that could confuse anyone, and an agreement to become Lex Luthors god damn Executive Assistant.

I’m basically going to be a glorified Secretary, for one of the most powerful men in the world... Whose also a raging fucking Supervillain too. Lia thought with a groan, rubbing her face. Her mind whirled with various thoughts, plans and so, oh so much more. The fact that she’s been offered such a prestigious job, at the tender age of 23 years old. A job as the right hand to a fucking Supervillain, Jesus Christ...

Ever since Lia woke up in her doppelgänger’s body, all those years ago, she made a decision that she would never involve herself with the various vigilantes of this world. But, considering she lived in Gotham before this, she had to cope with the fact that her city had various Vigilantes running around, doing whatever they were doing. But, Lia had the upper hand you see: the world she came from, all the Vigilantes and hero’s were fictional characters! Thus, she knew all their origin stories, secret identities and the like. In her pervious world, every kid knew that Superman was unassuming reporter Clark Kent of the Daily Planet. Who also happened to be Lia’s next door neighbor. You know what, I’m not even going to go down that rabbit hole. Nope. Nah. I’m good.

But, adjusting to life in her new body wasn’t a simple walk in the park. She had to adjust to a whole new city (perviously Lia lived in New York, which was the inspiration for Gotham but still). A whole new environment that became desensitized to the causal, practically fanatasical acts of violence ranging from man made super blizzards, the occasional alien invasion and etc. Not to mention, Lia had to cope with the fact she, in essence, lived in an entirely different body. The first two years of living in this world, Lia struggled with dissociation and body dyshoria at the fact that one: she now lived in a completely different world compared to her pervious world, and two: she inhabited a body that, yes is her, but, at the same time, wasn’t her.

Thank goodness mom realized what was happening and shipped my ass off to the few non-supervillain therapist in Gotham. Lia thought with a huff like laughter.

Her eyes then soon trailed too the stack of papers Lex Luthor gave, ones that detailed her contract of becoming his Executive Assistant. One, that would make her one of the most powerful women in the US by being the right hand of Lex Luthor. Who also is a fucking supervillain, god damn it.

Lia vowed to herself to never involve herself with the various superheroes, vigilantes, or villains of her new world. She wanted to live a normal as possible life, not wanting to have such a heavy responsibility of being a hero on her alreayd aching shoulders. She did not want to get involved in the drama that often plagued those who entered that life. She did not want to endanger her family (or herself) because she has connections with people who are vigilantes. Specifically, when she was a student at Gotham U, she avoided anything surrounding the Wayne’s (considering they are the infamous Bats and Birds that protect Gotham and her people). Likely, the only times she ever saw said infamous Vigilantes were the few unlucky times she was in a hostage situation and when she was about to be mugged those couple of times.

As far as interactions outside of their vigilante identities, she’s bumped into Bruce Wayne shopping with Damian, Stephanie, Cassandra and Tim. And oh boy, oh boy, did Lia pray to any deities out their to make sure this was the first and last time she ever met them. Her only words to Bruce Wayne (also fucking Batman) was a high pitched apology and the wish to be smited by God that very second. She’s also bumped in Dick Grayson the one time she visited some friends in Blüdhaven in a coffee shop. They struck up conversation, and it wasn’t till the end of the conversation did she realize who it was. After that, she always went out with headphones in her ears as they are the universal symbol of Don’t Talk To Me. And as for Jason, she’s seen Red Hood when she was out late at a 24/7 7/11, picking up some food. Frankly, Lia was to strung up on zero sleep and pure caffeine and spite to honestly give a single shit. Lia vaguely remembered wanting a specific thing, and Red Hood also reaching for it. She snatched said snack with a word, ignoring Red Hoods existence completely. The cashier looked like they saw a ghost but, as always, Lia was tired to give a single flying shit.

However, Lia’s paranoia didn’t simmer down. So much so, that she applied for an internship at LexCorp, her excuse being she wanted to have a change of scenery. While working at LexCorp, she gained considerable amount of knowledge and experience, but compromised with her mom that, after her internship finished up in LexCorp, she’s go to WE and work there. Lia had deep seeded concerns about working at WE, but after going back and forth in her head, she decided that, fuck it. It’s a gigantic ass company. There’s such a low percentage of me ever crossing paths with one of the Waynes and Co. Plus, mom drives a hard bargain. And damn, do I honestly miss Gotham. It’s so damn bright here. And it’s called fucking Metroplis of all things.

Before Lia could further brood about what her life had become, the sound of her doorbell flooded Lia’s ears. Lia’s eyebrows scrunched together, did I order something? But, she shrugged to herself, springing to her feet. Better find out then, I guess.

When Lia opened the door, she expected, say, a delivery person, or, a neighbor asking to borrow something. What she did not expect was her 5’3” mother, standing next to a 6-something, rather muscular, but familiar figure of—HOLY SHIT IT’S SUPERMAN, WHAT THE FUCK—

Next to her mothers petite figure, was the gargantuan stature of one Clark Kent, AKA, Superman. Lia could feel her blood pressure rise.

“Mom! Mr. Kent! What a nice surprise.” Lia said, through a tight lipped smile. Her mother simply smiled, laughing lightly.

“Habibi, it’s been such a long time—and, wait did you loose weight?” Her mother’s once smiling face turned sour, her eyebrows pinched together in worry. Her warm brown eyes trailing up and down Lia’s figure. Lia’s face immediately warmed up a few degrees, then her mother took hold of her face, examining it closer. Lia let out a indignant squawk, “Mom! Not infront of the neighbor please!”

Clark simply laughed, “No, it’s alright. I can understand a mother’s worry as my own Ma does the same thing whenever she visits.”

Her mother nodded, “See! He doesn’t mind, habibi. Now, it’s been a while since I’ve seen you. Mr. Kent, if you would be a dead, could help me set the food on the table?”

Clark smiles, his teeth a little too white and dazzling. “Of course! But please, call me Clark.”

Her mother laughed, while nodding. “Of course, Clark. Now, come in, come in.” Her mother said, inviting Lia’s neighbor into her apartment. She let out a sigh, moving out of the way.

Before long, Clark, Lia and her mother were setting up dinner. Somehow, someway, Lia’s mother convinced Clark to stay for dinner, while sending meaningful glances towards Lia. Lia wanted to jump out of her window. Knowing that her mother would always be her wingwomen, was, strangely nice, but this time? Trying to set her up with fucking Superman? Nope. Nah. No happening mom, no matter how hot Clark looks. Not. Happening.

Her mother, soon strikes up conversation with Clark about work. He talks about the Daily Planet, and being a reporter. Soon, the topic veers to Lia, whose honestly forgotten that Clark was Superman for a couple minutes.

“...on the topic of internships, my Lia currently interns at LexCorp, if I’m not wrong.” Her mother says, sending a pointed look to Lia.

“Uh. Yeah. I’m currently working at LexCorp as an intern.” Lia says, watching for Clark’s reaction at the fact that she works for his biggest nemesis. She can see it, the infantasmal flinch, before he relaxes again.

“Oh, is that so? From what your mother said, didn’t you live in Gotham before coming to Metropolis?” He inquires, setting down some plates on Lia’s dining table. Lia freezes up, since, she can’t just say: Well, you see, I know the identities of Gotham’s infamous vigilantes, who happen to also run and own WE.

“Well, I wanted a change of scenery really.” Lia added smoothly, taking out all the food and sorting them. She kept her face and tone neutral, watching Clark’s every move and reaction.

His face had a knowing look, as he gave a small nod. “I can understand that. Gotham and Metropolis are two very different cities and wanting a change of scenery is a fine reason for moving.”

Lia hums noncommittally, while her mother sighs. “I still wished you would’ve stayed in Gotham, you know. It’s closer and I worry for you, Habibi.”

Lia buffs through her nose. “Mom. I’m 24 and very much so capable of protecting myself, considering you were the one who taught me how to knock a man thrice my size out in a single punch since I was 7.”

Clark makes a sort strangled noise and covers it up with a cough. Lia’s mother simple sighs, her face showing her true age. “Of course your capable of defending yourself. Why would I let my daughter out and about in Gotham of all places with being able to defend herself? I just worry, ya habibi. This is a whole new city and you also live by yourself.”

“I’ve been living by myself since I was 18, mom.” Lia interjected but her mother gives her a look.

“Yes, you have been living by yourself since you were 18 but at least you were nearby. I worry, regardless of the fact.”

Lia sighs. They’ve had this talk numerous times, before Lia moved to Metropolis and before she even uttered her concerns about wanting to move. “I know.” She says softly.

The conversation dies out, as everything soon is set. However, before they could start eating, Lia’s mother spots the stack of papers.

“Lia, what with the stack of papers?” She inquired, her head gesturing to the coffee table.

“The stack of what?” Lia yelled out, as she was in the kitchen getting a jug of water. Her mother, whose curiosity guided her, got up from her seat and took ahold of the papers.

“The papers on your coffee table. What are they for?” She asked again, when she heard Lia set the jug of water down.

Lia, whose brain was preoccupied with a million other thoughts, carelessly said the phrase: “Oh, my contract to become Executive Assistant to Lex Luthor.”

Clark almost dropped what he was holding, before discreetly catching it with his super speed. Lia’s mother stilled, her eyes wide as saucers, her lips slightly parted.

“Your what to whom?” Her mother asked, her tone beyond incredulous.

Lia short circuited. She realized what she just said. In front of fucking Superman. In front of her mother. Fuck. Why does the universe hate me?

Before Clark could say anything else on the matter, his phone buzzed. The mother daughter pair snapped their gaze at Clark, whose face grew even more surprised.

“Oh. I’m sorry, I have to go. Something urgent just came up.” He said, shoving his phone back into his pant pocket. The mother-daughter pair simply nodded, as they watched a slightly frantic Clark Kent shuffle out of Lia’s small apartment.

When they heard Lia’s apartment door shut closed, her mother’s head whipped towards Lia’s. Her face went rigid, the past surprise at the new was scrubbed away, being replaced with a cold, calculative look. She gestured to Lia to sit down, at the dining table.

Lia, who simply stared at her for a while, sighed, before taking the opposite seat across from her mother. She knew this conversation will be a long one, thus, she started to pile on the food her mother brought.

“The contract in your hands, is a contract between me and Lex Luthor. It’s about me becoming his Executive Assistant.”

Her mother hummed, while also taking some food. “So, you’re going to be his right hand, essentially?”

Lia nodded. Well, sure. I’m technically a glorified secretary with a lot of power now. But sure, right hand is a lot more appealing. But she didn’t voice those thoughts, simply taking a bite of her food.

“Well, this took a turn I did not expect it too.” Her mother said with a sigh.

“You and me both, mom.”

Lia never would’ve imagined, not in a million Earths, would she become Lex-fucking-Luthors Executive Assistant. She honestly thought she would finish her internship without much fanfare and move back to Gotham to apply for a position at the WE.

“So,” her mother began, setting her fork down. “How the hell did you catch Luthors eye?”

“Well, it’s a bit of a long story but...”

A COUPLE DAYS AGO, the department in which Lia was interning suddenly lost a handful of employees who quit for whatever reason. Not to mention, an important meeting was scheduled and was now completely fucked due to these employees leaving. Plus, some other important event was also going on with some higher level execs and that was also in jeopardy. Lia, who was witnessing this utter shit storm in real time, realized, oh fuck. This is bad. Really bad. And decided to do something about it. Lia, at the time, was known in her department as someone who can manage a schedule like no ones business, convince people to do things her way like it was as easy as drinking water. She had a reputation and the department head was a chicken whose head was cut off, trying to put out the proverbial fires one by one, rather ineffectively. Lia, who made friends with various other interns in other departments (who worked with other high level employees), and who had various connections in Metropolis, was able to salvage most of the day (and subsequent week). She was able to fill in those positions rather quickly (the department head was more then happy to oblige), re-schedule the various important meetings and events that were scheduled that in under three hours after some (what Lia called) “aggressive persuasion”. Somehow, someway, the story of some intern with godly management abilities, persuasion skills made its way up to the big man himself: Lex Luthor.

When Lex Luthor heard of this, he became intrigued. Thus, he called Lia up, all the way to his office. Lia, who when was told that fucking Lex Luthor himself wanted to see her, was understandably shitting bricks. Her mind immediately went to the fact that somehow, someway, he figured out that Lia knew the identities of various vigilantes. Lia, who was reasonably terrified at the thought, began to draw up counter arguments and contingencies.

The entire way to Lex Luthor’s office Lia went through the seven stages of grief (the extra two are Denial 2 and astral projection). She thanked those she loved, and made her not peace with God. When Lia finally arrived to Luthors office, she immediately compartmentalized all her feelings, slapped on her most convincing cooperate smile, and knocked on his door, saying in the most polite and calm tone she could muster: “Mr. Luthor? You called for me, Lia al-Abadi?”

The moment she heard the muffled “come in.” Lia sent one more prayer to whatever deity out their, and strode into Luthors office.

Now, Lia has seen pictures and clips of Luthors office. But, it was one thing too see it and another to be in it. Lia, when entering the large office, with Luthor facing the window out looking Metropolis, felt her heart drop all the way to the earths core.

Her hands were discreetly balled up in her sides, her nails digging crescent shaped moons into the palm of her hand. The shirt underneath her blazer was definitely soaked through, but, thankfully, Lia wore a black blazer today, so it wasn’t that noticeable. Probably. Hopefully.

Lia took in a deep breath, trying to calm her hammering heart. “Mr. Luthor?” She called out, her voice surprisingly even. Her heart hammered against her chest, so hard, it seemed it would burst through any moment. God, what the fuck is my life anymore.

Luthor, being the dramatic ass Supervillian that he is, spun around, his hands clasped together as he faced Lia, sitting in a typical, large, black, swivel chair. The only thing he was missing was the white cat in his lap. 

Lia could feel herself die a little when she made direct eye contact with the man, the legend, the Asshole, himself: Lex god damn Luthor.

“Ah, Ms. al-Abadi, please, do sit down.” He said, his voice uncharacteristically bright and inviting. But, Lia knows better then to trust the fox when it was simling. She could see the calculative glint in his eyes. Carefully, she walked towards Luthor, who kept his picture prefect smile. The only thing that filled Lia in for the eternally long, yet short walk towards Luthor was the clicks of her heel, and her heart hammering against her eardrums.

Her hand, which she forced to keep steady, took ahold of the chair, dragging it away from the desk. The ugly screeches of the chair legs against the marble floor still reasonated through Lia’s ears. But, at least she saw the slightly—almost invisible—eye twitch that gave away his annoyance.

Lia, who kept her face devoid of any emotions, slowly sat down. Her eyes still focused on Luthors stupid smiling face.

When she sat down (finally, Jesus Christ that was a lot more anxiety inducing then I thought) she kept her back straight, shoulder squared and her hands on her lap. She could still feel her heart beating hard against her rib cage, and the million thoughts of Luthor somehow finding out about Lia and her knowledge of the identities of the various vigilantes. Her hands became clammy, her entire being screamed, I AM VERY UNCOMFORTABLE! but, Lia was stuck in between the proverbial rock and a hard place (rock: chair, hard place: Luthor’s office).

Her lips stretched into her patented cooperate smile, “You had called for me, Mr. Luthor, sir?”. Fuck my life. Lia thought, still smiling while she slowly died on the inside.

Luthor bared his teeth, lips stretched into a smile. “Please, call me Lex, Ms. al-Abadi.”

Lia, with ever cell in her very being, absolutely rebelled at the prospect of calling Lex Luthor just Lex. For one, he’s her boss, and Lia was raised to be polite. Second, Lia only ever referred to Lex Luthor either as Luthor or Lex Luthor, never just Lex. Third, Lex Luthor is a goddamn Supervillain, no fucking way am I calling him by his first name.

Lia’s fave stretched out into a tight lipped smile. “I’m afraid cannot do that, Mr. Luthor.” She said through gritted teeth, face still stretched out into a tight lipped smile.

Luthor cocked his eyebrow. “Oh? And why is that?”

For one, your Supervillain. Second, me saying your first name, and just your first name, tiggers my flight or fight response. Lia, of course, did not response to Lex Luthor’s question with that reply. Instead she said, “For one, Mr. Luthor, you are my boss and I am your employee. Employees don’t generally refer to their boss by their first names. Secondly, me referring to you by your first name implies that I am in some way, shape or form, close to you. Considering this is my first time ever meeting you personally, I can’t—” Won’t “—refer to you by your first name.”

A beat of silence. Lia, who continued to smile at Luthor as he stared at her for a good few moments, before lightly chuckling.

“Well, when you put it like that, Ms. al-Abadi, I cannot disagree. However, I do hope in the near future you would be more comfortable calling me Lex rather then Mr. Luthor.” He said, his face all smiles.

For a moment, Lia was confused. She was simply a temporary intern that would leave in about two months, how would she hypothetically warm up to Luthor enough so to call him Lex? Plus, what he said also implied that Lia would stay in LexCorp long enough to warm up to Luthor.

Then a thought crossed Lia’s mind. Wait, does he want to be my sugar daddy?? Which Lia immediately shot down, as, this is Lex Luthor, why the fuck would he be interested in being my sugar daddy? Even though I am fucking beautiful, thats for sure. But still. Lia shuddered at the thought before getting back on the topic at hand.

“Mr. Luthor, I am just a simple intern that will be leaving in about two months. I don’t understand how I would be able to get close to you enough so that I refer to you by your first name,” Lia said.

Then another thought crossed her mind, “Unless, you’re planning on making me a full time employee?” There was a slight tilt in Lia’s voice, her eyebrows slightly pinched together. Lia, however, racks her brain for any reason why Lex Luthor of all people would personally call her to his office just to say he’s going to hire her as a full time employee.

Luthor nodded, “Precisely, Ms. al-Abadi. But, I don’t just want to make you any full time employee, that would simply be a waste of your talent and potential.” He said, reaching for one of his drawers, pulling out a stack of papers.

A wave of confusion wash over Lia. Talent? Potential? The fuck did I do to catch Luthors attention of all people? “I’m not sure what you mean by my ‘talent and potential’, Mr. Luthor.” She said, while shaking her head. She honestly didn’t think of anything note worthy enough to catch a awfully busy man like Luthor.

A flash of confusion flickered through Luthors face before being plastered with another smile. “Ms. al-Abadi, I’m sure you know your reputation among the other interns, right?”

Lia’s eyes narrowed, as she hesitantly nodded. She was infamous for managing a clusterfuck of a schedule into an actual, mangable schedule. Lia was also known for her “aggressive persuasion” tactics and the like.

“Not to mention, the situation in which many employees from the department you interned in, quit. Resulting in many important events and meetings to be up in the air. Not to mention some other notable things that happened that day.” Luthor said, matter of factly.

And, he wasn’t wrong. But the fact that Luthor knew of that utter shitstorm raised more then a few alarms in Lia’s head. The situation that occurred that day was promptly swept under the rug and Lia only complained about the situation to a couple intern friends and her brother. Then, the face of Ana—an intern from the PR Department—flashed through Lia’s eyes. Lia wanted to strangle herself. Of course she told fucking loose lipped Ana about situation that never should’ve reached Luthor’s ears, god fucking damn it. No matter how much Lia wanted to groan and fight God, she kept her composure.

Lia gulped down, rubbing her hands as another smile made its way onto her lips. “Well, I simply did what had to.” I had pull so many fucking favors, and most of my god damn grey hairs are from that day, Jesus Christ. Whenever Lia remembered that day, her face (internally) soured, and the need for her to curse out God, the universe, whoever, was so great she had to bite her tongue (literally) to force herself not to go on a 20 minute rant about the entire situation. Still, even with her bubbling feelings of pure, unbridled rage, Lia kept her composure. This is a professional environment. I’m infront of my boss. Whose one of the most powerful man in the US. Whose also a raging Supervillain. I have to stay professional. Professional...

“Nonsense, Ms. al-Abadi. From what I heard, you had a situation presented to you, a situation that was falling at the seems no less—and somehow salavaged it. In under three hours, you were able to salvage the situation, reorder them schedule and was able to avert a scandal as well.”

Lia, for whatever reason, felt her face grow hot at the praise. She, of course, knew how shitty the situation became—did what she always did—complained a bit, and moved on. Planning, reorganizing, improvising plans on the go, and her “aggressive persuasion” is something Lia always did. She didn’t find such things awfully notable, as she’s been doing this sort of thing since the ninth grade.

“T-That’s—” Lia cleared her throat. “That’s quit a bit of praise, Mr. Luthor, considering I didn’t do much aside from reorganize and persuased a few people. Nothing that I consider rather notable, enough so to earn your attention.” Unnecessary attention, was left unsaid.

Luthor simply smiled, his teeth too white and straight for Lia’s eyes. “You might consider it unnotable, but I beg to differ.”

Then beg—Lia almost retorted, but she caught the phrase before it could ever leave. Fucking siblings.

Luthor pushes the stack on papers closer Lia. “Which is why—I want you, Ms. Lia al-Abadi, to become my Executive Assistant.”

Lia, when she heard the words Executive Assistant concluded that the universe hates her and that she will make preparations to fight God.

Safe to say, Lia was just offered a prestigious position, next to Lex Luthor, to be his Executive Assistant. The same Lex Luthor who is actively fighting against Superman—the Justice League at large—and it an overall Supervillain. One of Superman’s most noteworthy Supervillian. A Supervillian, who can potentially kill Superman because he has access to a grow, green rock. A Supervillian who made a clone of Superman—combing his and Superman’s DNA—to do so. The same Supervillain, who essentially was asking: “Do you want to be my right hand?”

“You want me to be your what?” Lia asked in an incredulous tone. She looked at the stack of papers and Luthor several times, while pointing to herself. “Me? A 23 year old, with barely any experience in the cooperate world, work as your Executive Assistant?”

Luthor, surprisingly, nodded, his face not showing a hint of annoyance. “Yes, I am. Of course, you should take your time to think over my offer. It is Friday, and I’ll be expecting your answer next Monday. Come to my office at 3 PM, next Monday, and we’ll talk some more, Ms. al-Abadi. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have another meeting to get too.”

Next thing Lia knew, she was holding onto a stack of papers, in an elevator, going down back to her original office. When she came back, several people commented on how dazed and pale she looked. One of her supervisors even asked if she wanted the rest of the day off (as there wasn’t much left to do, either way). Lia, who was still reeling from the events that had just transpired, graciously accepted.

Lia’s mother, who kept on listening to the entire ordeal, from start to finish simply commented. “Well, damn.”

Lia groaned, her hands rubbing her face. “‘Well, damn’? That’s all you have to say on the fact that one of the most powerful man in America offering me a position as his god damn Executive Assistant?”

“Hey! It’s a lot for me to take in, and, it must a lot for you to take in.” Her mother said, reaching out, taking a hold of Lia’s hand. She gave a comforting squeeze.

“Yeah, it was...” Lia mumbled. She sighed, her eyes on the stack of papers detailing what Lia’s responsibilities were, and some other key information. The stack of papers that could change her life with a single stroke of a pen.

“So, what are you going to do? Accept Luthors offer, or...?”

“It’d be dumb for me not to accept it.”

“Damn right it would be!”

Lia shoot her mother a look, before continuing, “It’s just... I’m only 23 and me getting this job is just... There’s a lot to consider. Sure, I’m good at managing schedules, persuading people and—” Her mother snorted, waving her hand.

“Hey! I am good at all those things, you know.” Lia exclaimed, crossing her arms.

Her mother raised both her hands, shaking her head. “Never said you were bad at them, Habibi. Your a damn genius when it comes to organizing events and persuading people. Not good, not great, but a god damn genius.” Her mother voice clearly showing how proud she was of Lia.

The tips of Lia’s ears were painted bright red, as her face spilt into a grin. “Yeah, yeah, I guess I am. But, the matter at hand is that, I don’t have much experience in the cooperate world. And, I just graduated a couple months ago. Not to mention, if I accept the position, there’s going to be a lot of talk on how, I, a 23 year old, rather attractive women, who just recently graduated from Gotham U, who was just a regular intern, managed to get the position of Executive Assistant to Lex Luthor.”

Her mother sighed. “True, there definitely will be rumors regarding how earned such a position without much prior experience.”

Lia sagged in her seat, her mind a tornado of thoughts. Should she accept? Should she decline? Should she msyteriously disappear off the face of the Earth, never to be seen again? Decisions, decision, so many decisions with so many consequences and variables at play that made Lia’s head ache. She had time, but not enough. It was late in the evening on Friday, and Luthor wanted an answer by Monday afternoon. Great. Just a couple dozen hours till D-Day. Fan-fucking-tastic.

“What about a trial basis?” Her mother blurted out. Lia cocked her eyebrow, gesturing for her to continue.

“Like, what if, you were his Executive Assistant for a couple of months, on a trial basis. Just to dip your toes in and get a feel for the job. That sort of thing.” She said with a shrug.

Lia’s eyes widen, as if a light bulb went off her head. “Oh my god. Why didn’t I think of that? That’s prefect! Not only would it allow me ample time to see if I’m ready for such a position, but also invaluable experience if I were too not take the position or Luthor deemed me unworthy of it.”

With a sort of plan set in mind, Lia continued to eat, all with a smile on her face. Even if after the trial basis, Luthor deems me unfit, I still get away with a couple months worth of pay that would pay off my student loans, not to mention invaluable experience. I win regardless of the fact if I get the job or I don’t!

With the sun setting, and Lia eating her fill, while catching up with her mother on other past events, Lia can’t seem to stop smiling. Even if she’s going to become the (Reculant) Executive Assistant to Lex Luthor, who also is a Supervillian.

That’s it folks! I had a lot of fun writing this in all honesty, even though it’s not that good. I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Till next time.

[wizardnuke]

tell me absolutely everything about your marvel oc

u said everything. u did this.

okay do u know what the avengers are missing that they really REALLY REALLY should have like It Bothers Me bc I worry about fictional fucking characters

they need a combat medic. technically sam could count but like the man's usually way up in the air, so, may I present to you: leena kyles

originally she had a certain set of powers but they were so fuckin similar to amatw's ghost that I a) lost my goddamn mind when I saw amatw and b) redesigned her out of spite

so I changed her powers and now she's the world's worst goddamn energy bender type deal and it's fantastic. its best described as like electrical telekinesis but with a very spotty wifi connection ie yes in theory she can like, blow up electrical devices, but she might just end up boosting the signal and like alerting bad guys (or, worst case scenario is that she misfires and fucks up someone's suit/arc reactor/metal arm) so really she just sticks to her endurance/agility/blind stubbornness and leaves her electrical powers to dramatic emotional breakdown moments

she's peter's age! but like, infinity war peter. in a world where infinity war never happened and neither did civil war FUCK the mcu the avengers split their time between the compound and the tower. she bonded w peter first, originally she was doing a vigilante thing but unlike peter she was kinda perceived as a threat and he was sent out to like do an assessment of her (mini mission!) and she kicked him in the head so needless to say it was the start of a beautiful friendship

how did she end up in nyc? fucking beats me. how did she get her powers? fucking depends on what I'm feeling when I'm writing her bc there's the traumatic option and the Traumatic Option and the eh she's just fuckin like this option but any way u slice it she was around doctors for the first 16 years of her life and she picked up a lot and also took classes and stuff but anyways there was a Tragic Occurrence and she had to get out and far away from where she was and nyc is a good place to disappear in

yes irondad features heavily in her storyline no I do not take criticism of any type

but anyway. she takes her secret identity very seriously bc she knows that peter is highkey monitored and like she agrees that he should be but She's Different, Okay, anyway she's a dummy, and she really doesn't want her identity to be discovered bc of people stalking her bc they want to experiment on her bc of her powers and That Can't Happen so she's a high school dropout vigilante that's friends w spiderman and she knows his first name is peter bc she accidentally overheard part of a phone call he was having w tony fucking stark and, goddamn it, she feels bad for not telling him her name when she knows his and she says her name is leena and he's like oh hi!

and then she like gets hurt-ish it's honestly not even that bad but peter worries and also he's a terrible liar and he snitches to tony and says that her name is leena. she does not find out about this. meanwhile tony is working on what little information he has on her to like find a missing person file on her and like, he isn't certain that he finds her bc leena kyles is from south carolina and that's kinda uh what the fuck and he has no frame of reference for when she went missing or if she's missing at all, really, so he doesn't say anything

and then peter gets fucking murked one day, he gets shot, like, five times in the abdomen, his suit goes offline, and tony gets a frantic call from a certain vigilante that isn't peter and she tells him their location and stuff and then starts rattling off his vitals, including ones that can only reliably be measured with a device of some sort, and, surprise, she's very attuned to the pressure levels/heartbeat/other electrical signals that the body produces, she's not good with her energy powers because they're fine-tuned to picking up stuff on people's bodies and keeping them alive, not to controlling electronics, and stark I can keep him breathing for another twenty minutes but he's lost a lot of blood and regenerating blood cells is not something I'm capable of get over here, please, I'm doing everything I can, and it's the start of a beautiful friendship. tony confirms her identity but doesn't do anything about it bc he doesn't know her situation and she doesn't suspect anything, so, whatever, right

anyways the expected thing happens, she has to give up the act and say hi her name is leena kyles she's 16 she's enhanced and she can't go back home and there's nothing for her there anyway

tony, bc he is a saint, is like okie dokie wanna meet the avengers and she's like What and he's like c'mon let's go you're one of us now

(he knows that she needs a support system, and she needs people that'll protect her)

anyways it's messy but unlike peter, leena doesn't really have contact with people her own age and she needs that too but it's hard to do that when she's supposed to be invisible so they take the risk and tony gets guardianship over her.

cut forward eh not even a week later there's an avengers call and bc this is a weird world where it's like 2012 avengers plus the others dr doom is fucking up nyc and they have to go. leena doesn't go bc she knows that she doesn't know how to work in a team that has more members than just her and peter and good lord she doesn't know how to take orders but uh. It Goes Wrong. and someone, probably steve or natasha, comes back hurt and post-hulk bruce is not helpful and idk 2012 world has SHIELD medical but they couldn't get there. idk. so they bring let's say steve in and he's ah not doing well, he's bleeding all over the couch, and they're like yelling over the phone for help and leena bolts into the room and they're like "shit leena no don't look at this" but tony's like oh SHIT wait no let her through let her through and she gets to work and saves his ass and by the time shield medical gets there steve is stable-ish and leena is casually washing blood off of her hands/arms at the kitchen sink

steve asks her if she wants to help in the field. she says yes. tony argues that he should really have a say in this, but it's for show and he agrees that she can help as like emergency backup/as a substitution if someone isn't there or has to go/their civilian herder/as their field medic.

leena is a crackhead. if someone goes down or she sees a civilian that can't get out alone she can and will run through fire and bullets and fuckin poison gas for all she cares. if she isn't needed to help but she's on the field she'll fight. it turns out that she's good at sensing heat signatures and vibrations in buildings so she knows when things are about to collapse so she's good at giving warnings that way too.

anyways she's full of love and besties with peter and lives with the avengers and has powers that make her an incredible medic and combatant so it's natural for her to be the avengers combat medic and she's damn good at it thanks for coming to my ted talk

[superfreakerz]

Lightning

Hello! This is for the Nalu Playlist event for @dabneelandheartfilibruh Basically we made something inspired by a song so that at the end, we’ll have a playlist that gives us nalu feels! :) Go check out everyone else’s too!

“Lightning”

Rated T

Summary: She was lightning, impossible to catch. But he only wanted her.

Inspired by Lightning by Alex Goot

Lightning

Over a year had passed since the battle with Alvarez. A much-welcomed peace settled over Fiore as the nation scrambled to pick up the pieces. Everyone in Fairy Tail was still trying to adjust to the calm state of the world, something that they weren't used to considering they were always caught up in some sort of trouble. Now that they weren't busy fighting for their lives and going through emotionally scarring events, they had all the time in the world to delve into things they didn't usually have the chance to.

Natsu gazed across the guild to the bar where Lucy sat. With her chin propped on the palm of her hand, she leaned forward as she chatted to Mira. She was adorned in a typical miniskirt and crop top combo, her golden hair tied into a high ponytail. His fingers itched to run through it, knowing each strand felt like silk.

Those who knew Natsu knew that he wasn't much of a man with words. He'd much rather fight some dark mages than sit down and have a real conversation about his feelings. It was awkward and put him in a state of vulnerability he wasn't comfortable with, which was why he never acted on his feelings towards Lucy.

He knew it. The guild knew it. Hell, even Lucy probably knew it deep down. The whole world knew how he felt about Lucy.

Natsu Dragneel was in love with Lucy Heartfilia.

He'd only said it once aloud when he had a heart-to-heart with Gildarts after he went on his training trip. Even then, he could barely get the words out. His throat tightened, his face was set ablaze, and he couldn't stop fidgeting.

Since then, Natsu had buried those feelings to the depths of his being, hoping that he would never have to act on them. He loved his friendship with Lucy; he wouldn't want to risk it. However, his feelings for the blonde hadn't gone away, even after being separated for a year. And after everything with Zeref and Acnologia, they were only stronger and harder to hold back.

Now, after nearly dying a few times in their last battle, Natsu was actually wishing for some change in his relationship with Lucy. After her party when she won an award for her novel, Natsu was sure that things were going to evolve between them. She had just woken up after a drunken night and made it seem like she was going to confess. He followed with what he thought was appropriate. He leaned in for a kiss.

Only to have her freak out.

After that blow to his esteem, Natsu changed route and they never brought it up again.

Lucy wasn't ready for that step. She was shy when it came to romance, only able to indulge in it when it was between fictional characters. When it came to herself, she became a blushing, sputtering mess who stepped back rather than dive in.

Natsu wanted to wait until she was ready to make a move.

And it was tearing him apart.

Natsu thought he had lost Lucy in their last fight. He had woken up to find blood smeared over her face and her heart still. That was a big slap in the face that he needed to act on his feelings before he lost her.

But how long was Lucy going to need?

"Just make a move already, flame brain," Gray said. In all honestly, Natsu forget he was there.

"You don't know what you're talkin' about," he replied, turning his gaze towards his frenemy.

The other boy rolled his eyes. "There's no point tryin' to hide it. Just go tell her."

Natsu gazed at Lucy while she chatted to Mira. He wished that she would turn her head and give him one of those bright grins that lit up the whole room, or to call his name with her angelic voice. But that wasn't how their relationship worked. They only looked at each other when the other wasn't looking. They were constantly dancing around their feelings.

With a heavy sigh, Natsu stood up from the table.

"I'm headin' home. See you later," he told Gray. He didn't even bother telling Lucy or Happy that he was leaving. With his head hanging lower than usual, he was out the door, sure that his absence went unnoticed.

Natsu plopped on the couch, staring up at the ceiling. There wasn't anything for him to do when Happy or Lucy weren't there. Still, he needed to get away. He was tired of drowning in his thoughts about Lucy, all the while ogling her from afar.

He considered taking a nap, about to head to the bedroom when he heard the front door creak open. Expecting it to be Happy, he lifted his head with an apology at the tip of his tongue for leaving without telling him. The words died in his throat as he took notice of who was standing at the doorway.

"Lucy?" he called out, jolting into a sitting position.

The girl smiled at him, making his heart soar. He wondered if she knew just how powerful her smile was. It was so calming, able to bring Fiore's rowdiest dragon slayer to his knees. He was wrapped around her finger, and she probably didn't even know it.

"Hey, Natsu," she replied, moving to sit next to him on the couch.

Natsu inhaled deeply, indulging in the girl's sweet aroma. He was grateful she stopped wearing those strong perfumes she wore when they first met. He loved her natural scent.

"What're you doin' here?" Natsu asked after snapping out of his trance.

"That's what I was going to ask you," Lucy replied, tilting her head to the side as she studied him. "You left the guild so suddenly, and you didn't even tell me you were leaving. I was worried."

Warmth flooded through the boy's body as he swallowed thickly. Being around Lucy was so hard when she said those kinds of things so naturally. His heart threatened to beat right out of his chest, his cheeks burning red.

"You noticed?" he asked.

Lucy arched a brow. "Of course I noticed. Are you okay, Natsu? You've been quiet all day, and you're usually never quiet." She scooted closer to him, their thighs flushed together as she gently pressed her hand to his cheek. "Your face is all red. Are you sick?"

Natsu stared into her eyes. They were filled with such concern. And her warm hand, so soft against his cheek; his mind felt like it was short-circuiting from the simple touch.

His hand moved on its own, sliding over hers and squeezing it gently. His keen ears took in the quiet inhale from the girl in front of him as he watched her eyes widen. Her cheeks turned pink. Using his other hand, he brushed a lock of her hair behind her face, his eyes drawn to her plump lips.

Nothing could compare to her. Not other girls, not fighting, not even magic. With her golden hair and her electric brown eyes, there wasn't a thing in the world that could hold a flame to his best friend. She was up in the atmosphere while everyone else was down on Earthland. She was lightning, impossible to catch.

But he only wanted her.

"N-Natsu?" Lucy choked out, her voice hushed.

A shiver ran through him as he watched her lips move as she said his name. He loved hearing her speak his name.

"You trust me, right?" he asked, meeting her gaze. Fire burned deep within his onyx orbs as he gave her hand another gentle squeeze.

Lucy only nodded in reply.

"You know I'd never do anything to hurt you," Natsu said, leaning slightly towards her. He knew he had to move slowly, lest he scare her off. She was like a deer, easily frightened when it came to stuff like this. He pressed his forehead against hers, her breath fanning his face. "I just need to try something."

He slowly leaned closer to her, his lips dangerously close to hers. He watched as Lucy's face was set ablaze and he could feel her fidgeting as he inched closer. Part of him told him to stop. The other part, the part that wanted all of her, told him to keep going.

He listened to the latter part of himself.

As his eyes slowly began to close, the last thing he saw was Lucy's mouth parting. His lips brushed against hers, a shiver running through his body. Her lips were soft, just as he pictured. Since she wasn't pushing him away or running off screaming, he ventured deeper, pushing his lips harder against hers and molding them together. She didn't move at first, but eventually, he could feel a slight pressure against his mouth.

Their movements were sloppy, both of them being inexperienced, but they soon got the hang of it. Natsu cupped the back of Lucy's head and pulled her closer to him. His body felt like it was on fire as he kissed her. He could actually feel her lips moving with his.

Lucy's arms snaked around his neck as she repositioned herself against him. Her legs wrapped around his torso as she sat on his lap. She tilted her head, allowing him access to venture deeper into her mouth. A low growl resonated in his throat as he lightly tugged on her lip with his teeth before he pushed his tongue inside her mouth. He could faintly hear a startled squeak from Lucy, but instead of pulling away, she relaxed into him. His tongue swept through her mouth before finding hers. He pushed his tongue against hers, both of them finding a rhythm they could agree on.

Eventually, they broke apart, both of them gasping for air as they caught their breath. Their faces were flushed with heat as they studied each other. Natsu took in the hazy look in her eyes before moving his gaze down to her lips. Pride swelled in him as he could make out a slight swell of her lower lip.

"W-What was that for?" Lucy asked. Her voice was airy and alluring, almost driving him in for another passionate kiss.

Natsu shrugged. "I guess I just couldn't wait anymore."

"What do you mean?"

"Lucy, I've been chasing after you every day, tryin' to make it obvious how I feel. I think you and I both know we aren't just friends, and I don't wanna act like we are anymore. I want you, Lucy. I want all of you. And I know I said that we'd be together forever, but I can't wait for forever to come anymore. Watching you every day, it's tearin' me apart."

His heart felt like it was going to thrust out of his chest as he waited with suspense for Lucy's reply. He had no idea what she was going to say. Sure, they shared a kiss, but was that enough to get her to take the next step? Or would fear wrangle its way around her heart and keep her from diving in?

Finally, a smile broke out over Lucy's face.

"I'm tired of waiting too," she said. "I've wanted this for so long. But I thought after my party, you didn't want to take things further between us."

"I only backed off because you were freakin' out about it," Natsu replied with a smile. He took her hand in his. "I wanted to wait for you to be really ready. So, are you ready?"

Lucy nodded, the blush on her face deepening. "Yeah, I am. Are you?"

A chuckle slipped past his lips. "'Course I am, weirdo."

"So… It's official?"

"Yeah. It is," he answered, squeezing her hand. "Should we tell the guild?"

"Oh hell no. Not yet. Not until they suspect we're never going to happen so that none of them win from their stupid betting pool. They deserve it for making a bet around our lives!"

Natsu laughed, looping an arm around her shoulder. "Sounds good to me. Anyways, I'm starving. Wanna go back to the guild and get some food?"

"Sure!"

As Lucy moved to get up from the couch, he wrapped his hand around her wrist and pulled her towards him, crashing his lips against hers in a chaste kiss. He pulled away with a mischievous grin, proud at the blush he caused to spread across her cheeks and the hazy look in her eyes.

"Let's go!" he exclaimed, heading to the door as Lucy chased after him, smacking his arm once she caught up. It was then that he knew that their relationship wouldn't change. Sure, they'd share kisses when no-one was looking, but they'd goof off just the same.

Natsu slid his hand in Lucy's. Intertwining their fingers, a jolt shot through his body at the fact that he could now do that whenever he pleased. It was official. He had done the impossible.

He caught lightning.

[kldubois]

Lessons in Looking 1/?

A/N: I have a handful of original characters for this series I’ve unknowingly been working on. I say unknowingly because I did not intend to start a new series in the middle of other projects and it wasn’t supposed to go past a 24 day writing challenge, but it has. These don’t necessarily follow right after one another, but they are mostly in a forward linear motion with the exception of one short that I’ll note. These are posted in a few other places, but I’ve cleaned these up a little. They were each written in a night and posted with little editing. There’ve also been some changes to character names to keep things consistent because I’m working on something bigger than a series of shorts, I guess.

Title: The Warehouse

Words: 1236

Her phone isn’t working. That’s not a surprise. Marla told her she’d fixed it, but it’s no surprise to her that it hasn’t worked. Not because Marla’s not good at that sort of thing, but it’s just her luck to have the phone still not work after her tech wizard friend performed some high-level magic on it. Her EpiPen, though, that is working and she’s glad for that because it’s easing some of the pressure in her chest and constriction in her throat. More than that, it gives her just enough strength to get to her hands and knees to crawl out of the building that she can’t recall why she was there anymore.

Her head down as she shuffles along, she sees the light of the winter sun breaking through cracks in the door. It taunts her as her pace slows. The EpiPen is wearing off and she can feel the strain of breathing return. The dizziness, the quick heartbeat never left but are now worsening. If she can just get to the door, then perhaps she can find a signal to get her phone working.

For her, the noises she makes, the pained wheezing, the grunts as she forces herself to take one more shuffle forward, don’t register. Each sound echoes in the empty, dirty warehouse as her movements slow.

Sometime before she reaches the door she collapses, which knocks what air is in her lungs out. She would cry out too if she could. Instead, she lays there trying to get air back into her lungs, pausing as the effort strains her swollen throat. Her chest aches but at last she has enough presence of mind to find the second EpiPen she carries because this has happened before and injects herself with it. Its effects are quick and though she’s exhausted by her ordeal, the ability to breath gives her the drive to get back up, shuffling along on her hands and knees.

The last several feet are difficult as the aches in her throat and chest grow to make themselves known over the adrenaline coursing through her. The nail being hammered in her head doesn’t help either. She just wants out of here. She wants to be home, on her couch, her dog scrunched up on her side, taking up what little space there is left on the couch.

She collapses again, some several feet away from the door, so close she can feel the chill of the air on her overly, probably fevered, body. She’s so close, she has to get out, she thinks. It would be terrible to be found dead this close. She can just imagine her obituary. Evalyne Rose died two fucking feet from safety. If only she’d had a little more courage, she’d have been able to rescue herself.

Not going to happen, she tells herself.

Inch by painful, exhausting inch she pulls herself closer to the door, pushing her hands into the concrete as much as she can and pulls it back to push herself forward. It’s a long process but whenever she thinks of her obituary, she keeps going forward.

Opening the door takes a few attempts before she can get the right amount of force behind the push to get it open. The effort sends her tumbling out of the door and down the steps into the empty alley. She stops when she hits the brick wall on the other side of the alley and lays there for a few moments to regain her breathing and wits.

Then she calls 911. She can’t recall her answers or what the operator says and she passes out sometime during the call, feeling the strain to breath grow. During the ambulance ride, she’s in and out, not quite aware of anything other than the paramedic’s presence as he tends to her.

She finally comes back to awareness in the ER with Marla sitting in a chair next to her. She takes a moment to glance around, finding the usual set up in place, an IV in her arm, oxygen mask on her face, pulse ox monitor on a finger, and blood pressure cuff inflating regularly on her arm. Oh, and the dreaded hospital gown.

“I see you’re finally back with us,” Marla says grinning slightly. She finishes up something on her phone, then looks up at Evalyne. “How’re you feeling?”

“Fine,” she answers, voice muffled by the mask. She moves to take the mask off so she can speak comfortably but Marla stops her.

“Leave it. Your O2 numbers still aren’t good. Your EpiPens helped but they still had to give you stuff to treat the anaphylaxis.”

Evalyne nods. She’d figured that more would need to be done. She’d been in that warehouse for far too long for this to be a simple ER visit.

“They’re waiting on a room to open up and some paperwork to clear before taking you up. Congratulations, you scored an overnight stay at a minimum.” The snark in Marla’s voice is a comfort. Evalyne knows she’s not mad, but worried.

“What were you thinking, going into that building,” Marla questions.

Evalyne shrugs her shoulders weakly, giving Marla a tired look. She’s not up to justifying her actions now. Besides, how was she to know that cinnamon all over the building, in the air and on the surfaces. Candle factories made more than just cinnamon scented candles, after all.

“Oh, look who’s alert finally,” Abby, a nurse, says as she walks through the curtains to the bed. Evalyne knows Abby well and doesn’t take the tone personally, rolling her eyes instead. She knows much of the ER staff from her many visits.

“Yeah, she woke up a few minutes ago. Tried to take the mask off,” Marla says for her.

“Well, we can’t have that happen. Make sure you keep that mask on. Okay, Evalyne? It’s helping you breathe,” Abby says, sarcasm gone from her voice.

“Okay,” Evalyne says, coughing lightly.

“And you should probably refrain from speaking much. You were in a severe state of anaphylaxis by the time the paramedics found you. Going into that warehouse was your worse decision yet. We had to bathe you after removing your clothes to get rid of the cinnamon that was on your body to stop the reaction.”

She feels guilt at that. Going into places like that warehouse was normal for her. She liked to do hands-on research and often times that meant that she got into some old, dangerous places, but she hadn’t thought that the warehouse would be so bad.

“Sorry,” she says, coughing again.

“Stop it,” Marla snaps lightly. “I know that you didn’t mean for this to happen. You never do, but you really need to think more about things before you do them. You’re a writer, not some sort of secret agent or investigative journalist. You write fiction. Most fiction writers do their research online from what I hear nowadays.”

“It’s ‘bout the ‘xper’nce,” Evalyne says.

“Yeah, yeah, I know. I just wish you’d be more careful.”

“Well, all you’re going to be experiencing for the next day at least is a hospital room. And look, one’s just opened up. Are you ready for another adventure,” Abby asks, letting the snark slide in easily.

“Shut… up,” Evalyne says. It’s going to be a long day. She just hopes she gets a nurse upstairs that doesn’t know her.

[umccall71]

Chapter 15

Characters: Prince Liam and MC Lady Sexy

Rating:Mature content includes profanity, sexual content,talks about depression.

Word Count:

Disclaimer:All characters are property of Pixelberry except my OC Lady Saige. The use of these characters are for entertainment only and i am only borrowing them.

Summary:After a summer of a lifetime,Prince Liam thought he could have it all.He was carefree, free,, and sharing time with the woman of his dreams.When life was easy, a balancing act between love and duty, he realizes his truths are lies, wrong is right, and decisions do have consequences. Lady Saige never imagined she would be one of his consequences.When an utter act horror throws her world into a tailspin.

Warning: This series contains subject matter of depression and hopelessness.The story may trigger certain individuals. Please be advised. If your reading this series you are acknowledging you are 18+.

A/N:Sorry for the long delay.Things have been hectic in my life for a bit.I had to take some time to focus on my health. Thanks for your understanding and support.

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@eadanga @ao719 @kingliam2009 @lodberg @silviasutton1989 @rainbowsinthestorm @silverofdreams @ownworldresident @the-soot-sprite @jared2612 @sashatrr @jovialyouthmusic @smalltalk88 @syphax @custaroonie @kuladekiwi @whenyourheartskipsabeat @marietrinmimi @furiousherringoperatortoad @gibbles82 @choices97 @fantasy-of-fiction @romanticatheart-posts @drakesensworld @wughhumans @simsvetements @blackcoffee85 @3pawandme @indiacater @hopefulmoonobject @elles-choices @lauradowning29 @carabethpow

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Saige began sobbing, afraid of the outcome. As much as she was looking forward to learning that she and Liam are expecting . Saige envisioned the moment that she would share with the Liam the news that they will become parents.

“Saige... baby do you think there is a chance that you could be pregnant?!”, Liam’s features were a mix of confusion and hope.

Saige sat on the floor hyperventilating, folding over wrapping her arms around her knees. “Liam... what .. what if I am... pregnant? Nobody knows that we’re married outside of our friends. You haven’t had your coronation yet. The people, your people wouldn’t accept you having a child outside of marriage.”, she sobbed.

Liam pulled Saige into his lap holding her , rubbing gentle circles on her lower back. Liam’s heart broke seeing his loved one distraught, fearing the worse. He knew in his heart of hearts that Saige would be his only choice for a wife, his queen, and the mother of his child. He tried to control the hope in his voice , fearing he may scare her further, or worse... saddle her with possible disappointment. “Love, your being pregnant wouldn’t be the worse news. In fact.. it would be wonderful news”, he laughed through his now growing tears.

“Liam what if you change your mind... what if ... what if he tries to take our baby?!”, she exhaled in desperation.

“He who ?”, he questioned.

Saige shakes her head fearing to speak his name. Every time she tried to speak of him, the bile would rise in her throat. Something didn’t sit well with saying Constantine’s name out loud. That name was reserved for her worse nightmares and saying it aloud would breathe life into him.

“Liam, your father..”, her words were stifled in her throat. Saige felt the perspiration breaking out in her body, breathing becoming labored, she couldn’t control the air entering and exiting her lungs.

Liam became nervous for her... he reached in his pocket for his phone. Liam’s fingers quickly dialed a number that was memorized in his mind. The room was quiet momentarily, “Bas... please get the car ready to take us to see the doctor.” He fought to conceal the worry in his voice, careful not to frighten Saige. He ended the call and scooped her into his arms moving quickly through the halls of Lythikos.He could not believe how fast he moved to get her down the stairs and out the door.

Saige buried her face in his chest feeling as though she were foolish to feel the way she feels. Saige gave up trying to hide her tears that rolled down her crimson cheeks. This was not something she wanted to burden Liam with going into his coronation.

Her voice was so small as she eeked out the words, “where are you taking us Liam?”

He could barely hear her voice ... a mere whisper through the tears.

Liam leaned down pressing his lips to her hair by her ear, “Love... we are going to be fine. I need you .. I need us. I’m taking you to see a doctor privately. We can find out if you are with child, but your safety is of utmost importance. I will not let anyone hurt you, nor our child “, he pleaded trying to convince her that she was in good hands. He was also convincing himself. Liam’s voice was soothing to Saige, but she failed to see the genuine fear and tears in his eyes.

“Saige... I need you to trust me... trust that I will protect my family... this family .. with my life”, he placed emphasis on his last words. Liam decided that day in Kemah, Texas that she was his gift and his job was to take care of Saige at all cost. Even if it meant walking away from everything that he held the most reverence for.

Bastien pulled up outside the rest of a non-descript building. The brick was pale pink with off white trim. Bastien opened the door for Liam whom was not letting Saige go. He had without thought never allowed her feet to touch ground since they left Lythikos. The back door to the clinic flew open and they were greeted with a bow from a short, staunch man with dark hair and green eyes. The doctor quickly ushered them inside an exam room . Saige was laid on an exam table, she curled into herself. Liam felt helpless to know the woman he loves was facing her own personal hell. She was in hell and the ride was provided by his father.

Liam gripped her hand and layer a soft kiss on her knuckles when the doctor knocked and entered the room. “So what can I do for you ... your highness. I imagine you have lots of preparation for your coronation?”, the doctor inquired.

“Dr. Taylor, I need your assurance of complete confidentiality and discretion. I need to know that what is discussed remains within these walls. Bastien here has a non disclosure agreement we will need for you to sign.”, Liam stayed sternly.

“Sir, that’s all fine and good, but I am bound by my medical oath. There is no to be concerned, but if it will give you peace of mind... I will sign.”

Saige averted her eyes feeling slightly embarrassed to be discussing something so personal.

Liam squeezed her hand, “it’s okay, we can trust him.”

Dr. Taylor reassured, “ I can keep your medical records under an assumed name for privacy. No one will know the true identity of this patient except the people in this room .”

Liam smiles softly at Saige , “Dr. Taylor... this is my wife , Saige Rhys. We were married in a private ceremony a couple months ago. Anyway, we recently made the decision to start a family... or at least try.Saige has not been feeling well, not sleeping well, tired, nauseous, and we learned tonight that she’s late.”

Dr.Taylor nodded knowingly seeing where this conversation was going. “I see... I suppose congratulations are in order for the wedding. What we can do is arrange a urinalysis and blood work to check for any infections, but we also want to confirm rather there is an heir to the throne . Sorry.. this is somewhat exciting to be treating the queen to be ... the possible heir. We want to make sure that you are healthy and rule out any illnesses.”

Bastien and Dr. Taylor left the room allowing Saige to get changed and pee in the cup. Liam sat in the chair aside the table waiting for Saige to return. His fantasy of becoming a father was vivid and working overtime. He smiled to himself considering how the next minutes could forever change his life. Liam turned to see Saige coming from the restroom looking pensive.

“Love , are you feeling any better? I just want you to feel like yourself again. Whatever is happening here, we’ll face it together.”

Saige couldn’t help but put on a smile at hearing how supportive Liam was being in her time of need. Although this shouldn’t come as a surprise to her, Liam was nothing of not compassionate. He epitomized love . He was perfect in every way. As much as she would like to find fault... there was none. His only fault was loving too deeply.

“Liam... I just want to make you happy and make your dreams come true. You are everything to me.. i only want what’s best for you. Even if what’s best is ... someone else.”, she dropped her head as if she were ashamed.

Liam held her face , and traced her jawline, “ all I need is you love. Everything and everyone else is a bonus. I can’t wish for a more perfect woman. I will spend the rest of my life proving to you that you made the right decision to be with me”,he kissed her tenderly.

The moment was interrupted by the doctor opening the door, he had come to draw blood and collected her sample. “You two have nothing to worry about, we will find out what’s going on.”He flashed Saige a smile, patted Liam in the shoulder and exited the room.

Liam reflected on the conversation from earlier that night. He thought back to finding her in a cold sweat screaming to not take him. His father... his father had become a source of pain in the past months and growing worse. He only ever wanted to take away her pain, her reminder of what Constantine tried to steal from her that night. It was replaying a movie in slow motion but never being able to truly leave it behind. For as much as her progress with Dr. Ashton was helping, he knew they had a tough road ahead.

“Saige, am I putting too much pressure on you? Too many expectations too soon?”, guilt flashed in his eyes.

“I never want you to feel that you can’t talk to me. I’m here ... I feel I was put on this earth to love you.”,his blue eyes glistened with hope.

Saige saw nothing but genuine tenderness in his eyes. Liam was love... he was her love. She belonged to him and he to her. This was never in doubt. She remembered the day he had roses delivered every hour for hours straight in order to get her to agree to go on a date with him. This was so touching.

“Liam.. my prince.. my soon to be king... you have made me feel nothing but love and support every minute of every day. You’ve always made me feel every decision is my own to make”,she smiled and stroked his hand. “For this I thank you... for showing me that there are real men in this world that put their own happiness aside to protect their loved ones.”

Liam pulled her to his his chest and held her tight. “ I love you so much Saige, I will do anything to love and protect you “,he felt her shaking in his arms. “Let your fears , be mine. Let me carry your burdens love. I want you to think happy thoughts.”

After several minutes Dr. Taylor came into the room smiling widely. “The good news is that you are not ill , there is no infection or virus that your carrying. The bad news ... is you may be feeling this way for at least another month... depending on how long it will take for your morning sickness to subside.”,he paused. “Congratulations you two are going to have a baby. You are indeed pregnant with the next little prince or princess of Cordonia. Let’s take a look to see if we get a peek into what’s going on.”

Liam’s eyes welll up and a huge smile filled his face. He kissed Saige on her forehead, leaned down and whispered, “thank you... for making my dream come true today. I cannot never thank you enough my love.” He saw Saige’s blue eyes fill with tears and ...sadness?

“What’s wrong love... are you not happy?”

Before she could respond they heard Dr. Taylor tell her to lift the gown up above her waistband. “Now you will feel a cool sensation from the gel, this will help the image to see the baby.It may not be possible to hear the heartbeat just yet with a normal abdominal ultrasound, there is sometimes a need to do a vaginal ultrasound.”

Saige’s hand covered her mouth in awe at the news that she and Liam were expecting a baby. She never felt that this was a reality for herself, but she feared letting him down. Liam was her life, and if all went well, she would soon be sharing him with a baby.She felt that she wasn’t good enough, she wasn’t strong enough to have such a huge responsibility. “What if I .. what if I can’t do it?”, she spoke faintly.

“Love, I have no doubt that you can do whatever you set your mind to. This little one will be blessed to have you caring for them.”, he kissed her hand as they looked on at the doctor rub the probe over her belly.

They waited with bated breath to hear anything from the scan. They wanted to see a glimpse of their child.The representation of their love, their, now their family. The room felt like a funeral so silent and still... until suddenly , a darting blip on the screen. There in a graining glory was their baby, their legacy, their proof that there are still good things left in this world.

“Is that.. ?”,she questioned silently.Dr. Taylor watched her face fill with confusion, or maybe not wanting to accept that this is real. “That there... is your who will grow into your baby. I know right now it’s small , but as the weeks and months progress , it will form into a little human being.”, he chuckled. Liam and Saige smiled at the screen in awe. “Is it possible to love this baby already... I already love it’s mother.” Liam kissed Saige’s cheek.

“Liam, what if he tries to take our baby? I don’t know what I will do if something happened.Please don’t ... please let the baby be safe”,she pleaded to Liam and to herself.

Liam’s eyes flitted between the screen and Saige’s face. “Don’t worry love, you two are my life, my priority,I will never let anyone jeopardize your safety.That promise... I put my life on love.”

“ I would say your about 6 weeks pregnant. Congratulations to the both of you.” Dr. Taylor smiles and printed a copy of the ultrasound. “I will write a prescription for prenatal vitamins, folic acids. I will give you a list of do and dont’s for foods and other items throughout the pregnancy.” Dr.Taylor handed copies of the ultrasound and they stared lovingly, already bonding with their little one. The doctor wiped the gel from Saige’s belly as they watched.

Liam stepped away for a moment to speak with Bastien in the hall , as Saige was finishing up with the doctor. “Bastien... we need to get my father and Regina out of the palace... like yesterday! That son of a bitch is still causing nightmares months after what he did to her. We need to make sure that he gets no where... near Saige ... or our child”,he voice was angry, yet controlled.

“Sir... congratulations.. do you really think king father would do anything to hurt her or the baby?”, Bastien asked concerned.

“Does it matter after what he did... I can’t take a chance assuming he would go further. I need my wife and child protected at all cost. There will be hell to pay if he comes anywhere near her. Get .them. Out....Now!”,he breathed in and out angered by the thought. “I promised them that no one will ever hurt them... that is a promise I intend to keep.”

Liam turned around and went back into the room to join his wife. Saige wore a genuine smile for the first time in weeks. Liam wrapped his arm around her waist and ushered her to the door after thanking the doctor for everything.Liam, Saige , and Bastien made it to the SUV. Bastien opened the back door and Liam made sure Saige was comfortable and buckled in safely. He joined her in the back seat , he gently squeezed her hand, then he wrapped her in his arms as close as she could get while not causing discomfort from the belt.

Bastien eyes the couple , the soon to be king fussing over his family. He knew in that moment, Liam would lay down his life to protect them.. and Bastien being the ever humbled servant to the crown knew he too would do the same. He felt this he owed them for what went down under his watch. “your highness, my lady, I wish the both well with the new addition.”, he grinned never taking his eyes off the road and the rear view mirror.

Liam looked down at Saige , who was drifting off to sleep. “Bastien, let’s get them home.” He drew lazy circles on her back soothing her to sleep as they drove away looking forward to what comes next.

“Sleep well my love... I will make sure that no one threatens your happiness... or our family. This ... you can guarantee”, he whispered thoughtfully as they headed home.. for now.

[the-energon-hole]

TFP Megatron, Knock Out and Predaking (in bipedal mode) watching horror movies on the Nemesis with their human s/o and getting amused, but also loving it, because she hugs their chassis tightly when tension builds up then squeaks and buries her face into their chassis when scary parts happen, please?

((A/N - Yeah, this is late… Happy New Year? Ah, sorry. Anyway, everyone is Bipedal except Predaking because I thought it fit his personality more. Enjoy!))

Megaton

(Movie Picked- Texas Chainsaw Massacre)

-He had no idea why he always agreed to such asinine activities- which only made his processor swirl with thoughts that maybe you had a bit more power over him that he would like to admit. He doesn’t want to say allowed how wrapped around your finger he truly is, because truth be told, of you snapped your fingers and told him to jump he wouldn’t even bother to ask how high because he would already know how high you wanted him to go. He worried that you were going to be the death of him and his empire- or what makes him shutter worse, that he could be the death of you. You didn’t seem to feel the same as he did in this aspect, you were fearless and secure in the ideals that he would always protect you from harm- which he would so long as he has a spark pulsing in his chest and thoughts racing in his processor. You looked up at him with those sparkly wide eyes of yours as you said his name and asked if he was ready to watch the “movie”- you were a big fan of media productions created by “Hollywood” and he had no idea why. Cybertronians didn’t really have anything like the copious amounts of media that humans seemed to possess, they had much more humble forms of entertainment that mostly consisted of historic storytellers and musicians. There wasn’t a big scope of entertainment for the masses beyond gladiator fights and binge drinking high grade until one passes out.

-Cybertronian entertainment seemed to be rather… destructive when comparing it to simple human fictional books and television shows, but it made sense when he thought about it logically, he couldn’t imagine you in body armor fighting to the near death while crowds of people sat in stands cheering and screaming to see some bloody action. You told him some cultures did indeed have displays like that, but it was a little different for humans than it was Cybertronians, after all ge has lost quite a few limbs in his gladiatorial days- it was nothing to replace his disconnected frame parts, but humans did not have that same luxury as once their parts were gone they were gone. That could be why you were so terribly squeamish about watching Starscream lose his arm or the idea of battles where he has lost nearly ever appendage on his frame- you always heaved as if you were going to eject the contents of your stomach and flinched as if someone was about to hit you. It was endearing to see you so concerned about his frame and form, and it was always quirky that no matter how many times he explained it to you that it wasn’t the same as a human losing an appendage, you still reacted the same way each and every time. You were so human, and he supposes that was what he liked about you so much, your endless empathy and your alien and foreign reactions to all of his simple and normal stories about his days on Cybertron.

-You were kind of a talker during a movie, not a loud talker or anything that would be deemed rude or such, but you liked to give your own commentary and opinions when necessary or when it was funny. The best part about this habit was that it was one Megatron picked up on pretty quickly, and you two would make silly quips about the scenarios the protagonists have found themselves in. He noticed your jokes and comments began to dwindle as the thrill of the horror of the movie began to set in as the main antagonist begins torturing one of the side characters. Megatron was grossly intrigued as he watched the antagonist begin to brutalize the side character in a gory mess, he heard you suck in air through your teeth as you turned around and placed your face against his chest plate from where you sat comfortably on his upper leg- you didn’t like scenes like this so you basically whined at him to let you know when it was done. If it were up to him the scene would never be over as there was something comforting and primal about how you would run to him if you were scared or uncomfortable. He cooed at you in a comforting way by letting hid engines rumble in a low hum as you clung to him while you physically winced at the sounds of the movie still playing behind you. Despite knowing it was fiction, despite knowing that no harm was happening to the humans on the screen, and despite always being so calm under pressure you still somehow let this kind of thing get to you. Honestly? He wouldn’t a damn thing about you- including this squeamish reaction, it showed him how passionate and loving you really were, and as he ran one of his claws through your slightly tousled hair he felt his spark tug in your direction because it fully believed you were the only being in this whole damn universe good enough for him.

Knockout

(Movie Picked- The Human Centipede)

-You didn’t even need to ask him twice! Knockout is fascinated by this aspect of human culture- the creation of fictional stories for entertainment wasn’t uncommon for their species, bit the fictitious elements were only ever implemented in old war stories and boring cautionary tales of always behaving like a good little Cybertronian Drone that The Council expected one to be. He loved how outlandish Fantasy stories can be and it filled this strange niche he never knew he had to watch action films where the protagonist runs around shooting guns and doing flips- sure he lives that kind of life being a Cybertronian Decepticon Rebel, but for humans there was more at stake than there was for him. Cybertronians were a very resilient species consisting of a mixture of biological and mechanical components- they could lose a limb, they could have their armor stripped off, they can even live with severe processor damage. Humans? Not so much. They get a big physical injury and that tends to be the end all be all for them, they were just creatures made up of biological organic tissues that were resilient against other organic things like bacteria and viruses, but when it came to physical injury that was rough for them. That’s what made movies so good, he likes watching different exaggerated scenarios of ways humans can potentially get hurt. That, and well, he likes spending time with you doing things that involved nothing but loafing around and relaxing. 

-Sure, you both worked together, but it was work that is what took up most of your time together, it left little room for conversation beyond what was the task at the servo that needed to be completed. You were a treasure to work with in his optics as you never complained about the morality of his experiments or his deeds, unless of course he was trying to be cheeky with you and get a rise out of you. Primus, the way your little cheeks get red and puffy when he says something risque or when he would say something to get you angry as your eyebrows furrowed in disgust as you would scoff at him and call him all kinds of bad names. He remembers once asking about taking other people’s body parts and putting them on another person’s body like he had seen in some odd human movies, to which you got huffy with him and told him that was already a thing called a transplant and that it is actually a tool that has helped save thousands of lives, to which he replied with a wonderful smirk that what if he made a four armed six legged human. You sneered at the idea and told him that is weird stuff only creepy mad doctors do in Science Fiction films and over the top nonsensical Medical Dramas- and besides, you informed him a human like that wouldn’t live very long as you weren’t designed to have so many outer limbs, that person would suffer from necrosis in a matter of days as there wasn’t enough blood to sustain functioning limbs. Not once did you call him sick for suggesting to do such a terrible thing, but you did try to school him on human anatomy, and it was so endearing and cute- he loved to argue with you and he was pretty sure you liked arguing with him. Also, it was good to know you were down to make a crazy human monster- it just has to be anatomically correct.

-Human Cinema was a guilty pleasure of his in the same way human cars were, he can’t help but indulge from time to time- and this movie you picked is supposed to be so disgusting in its premise that he couldn’t wait to see your reaction. You both sat comfortably in his berth room since it was a rather quiet and secluded area of the ship, it was one of the best perks of being a Decepticon soldier- privacy, all of the Vehicons had to share a resting barracks,  he shuddered at the thought of having to power down in a room with other bots that were jealous of his high rank. You couldn’t help but make snarky comments at people’s stupidity in the movie- but as soon as things got graphic and gory, you couldn’t help but shy away from the action on the screen. “Come now, I’m sure you’ve witnessed worse through your time as a medical professional?””Yes, but there is a difference between a bullet hole in a soldier and a human being disfigured!” He laughed as you buried your face on his chassis as the sounds of squelching could still be heard on the screen- he was basking in all of this, and he was definitely not going to let you love this down. He can see it now, you squirming and wriggling as he grilled you about how much things like this bothered you- he couldn’t wait to see your little face get all flushed as he would poke you with his digit while mocking you until you blow up in his face the way he likes so much. He has to admit though, even he could feel himself wincing at the premise of this movie- something about thinking about certain things moving through multiple human bodies made him gag on his own energon. Some humans have a twisted sense of what was entertaining.

Predaking

(Movie picked- The Conjuring)

-He was looking forward to your visit to his ”quarters” tonight, if you can call a dark and dank cage proper sleeping quarters, but despite his living condition and his reputation on this ship you still found his company more agreeable than the other power hungry mechs on this floating prison. Considering that the first time he met you he nearly stepped on you because he thought you were some kind of organic monster, well, it really says a lot about all the bots in the Decepticon ranks honestly. He loved your company more than he could put into words as you treated him less like a monster and more like a person- you were so kind to him as every time you lifted your small hands he did not fear a strike but rather looked forward to a kind stroke. His favorite part about your visits were the fact you always had an interesting story to tell him- you called them books, and they were merely printed words on flimsy pieces of material, but the things they told were very dramatic and impactful. You told him all kinds of interesting tales- things from kids getting lost in a magical closet to a story about a rich man who could never truly have the one thing he wanted and he had to learn the hard way money can’t buy everything. Sometimes he didn’t understand the concept of these stories, they were alien to him, but you were very patient with him and was able to explain everything to him when he inquired about it. It made him realize why you were on this ship in the first place- you were the Decepticons insight into how human culture functioned. You thought he didn’t notice, but he sees every time you get sad talking about the family you had to leave behind in order to save them from Megatron’s wrath, he couldn’t offer much comfort besides his presents- but he knows it isn’t enough. He wishes he could make you smile more, he liked it when you beamed at him with that glowing face that you have, but he knows he is no substitute to the warmth and love that a true pack can offer.

-You seemed extra excited tonight as you set up and odd looking device on his pen. He found it rather cute the way you spoke too fast for him to actually hear what your saying while you were excitedly bounding around his living space going on and om about some hallowed tradition your culture enjoys celebrating. He understood the words “we eat candy till we drop” and “we dress up and go to homes to get said candy”, an odd custom of you asked him his opinion, but this was your planet and he can say for sure Cybertronian customs were just as odd from your perceiving end. He was also kind of taken away as you told him this time of year also meant purposefully getting scared? You told him it’s all in good fun and everyone has a good laugh after the initial scare takes place- why would humans find joy in terrifying one another? You seemed to be excited about this…movie? Movie, this movie you were about to show him. You read stories to him all the time, both fictional and nonfictional, so this is sort of the same thing but visual? You peaked his curiosity that was for sure, so once you got tucked in next to him as he lay down to watch what it was you out on, he couldn’t help but chuckle to himself at how cozy you looked with a bowl full of sweets and a warm blanket to cuddle with since it does get rather cold out here on the deck of the ship.

-He didn’t understand what was going on with this story at all! He understood the premise that it was fiction, and yet, the story is leading him to believe this all really happened. He grew bored with the strange tale of “haunted” things- you’ve told him of the paranormal before, but this he just couldn’t wrap his brain around and he had stopped paying attention to the film long ago. However, you were so into it that anytime he shifted his body you yelped and jumped on the air as you clutched you hand to your chest- he apologized for startling you, but you just laughed and said that it helped with the atmosphere of the movie. Humans really are a strange species- seriously who thinks it’s fun to get scared? A particularly jumpy part of the movie made you quiver and turn your whole body around to grab onto him for safety as you winced when a loud scene was going on in the background. It made his spark leap a little as he saw this natural reaction coming from you- it filled him with a sinful sense of pride to know that your first fear instinct was to cling to him as your savior in an hour of need. ”I’ve seen this movie so many times and it still gets to me! What did you think?” You asked as you stood up to stretch and clean up the mess that was strewn all across the floor of his pen, he just gave a huff in response as he laid back down to rest as he walked you walk around and clean up. “That much, huh?” you laughed “I’ll get something you like next time, big guy.”

(01/24/19)

[restlessmaknae]

50 questions tag

Thank you so much @yeongwonhi-nuna​ for tagging me! ❤️

1. what takes up too much of your time? Studying hehe. But it needs to be done, so it’s okay. Plus, I think I’m managing my time well, I finally got the hang of my uni schedule, so I study a lot but I also have enough time for myself.

2. what makes your day better? Definitely spending time and/or messaging these cuties: @dat-town��, @lily-blue​, @binkygee​. Watching Where Stars Land with my dearest golden unnie; watching kpop videos (yesterday we watched Weekly Idol with iKON and it was HILARIOUS XD); listening to music; writing; writing roleplay posts; cooking.

3. what’s the best thing that happened to you today? I got a cute comment on one of my stories. ❤️

4. what fictional place would you like to go? Camp Half-Blood.

5. are you good at giving advice? I don’t know.

6. do you have any mental illness? I suffer from anxiety and I was diagnosed with anorexia more than a year ago.

7. have you ever experienced sleep paralysis? No.

8. what musician inspired you the most? I can’t really choose one single person; there are so many that I respect for various reasons. Lately, I would say it’s Hanbin (B.I) from iKON, Jin from BTS, Mark from NCT and Jisung (Han) from Stray Kids. Apart from kpop, it has to be Cher Lloyd, The Score and Oh Honey.

9. have you ever fallen in love? No, only with fictional characters, let it be my own fictional characters or others’. 😁

10. what’s your dream date? I love cozy things such as staying at home and watching an animated movie or maybe cooking together. Also, I adore tea, so a tea house date would be fun. Yet, as long as I’m with someone I like, it doesn’t really matter what kind of date it is. (Just look at my bf!AUs, I’m such a softie. 😁 )

11. what do others notice about you? My eyes. I get that a lot when I meet new people.

12. what is the annoying habit you have? Perfectionism.

13. do you still talk to you first love? I haven’t had my first love yet, so obviously no.

14. how many ex’s do you have? Again, I haven’t had exes. 😁

15. how many songs are on your playlist? Well, on my pendrive, there are about 900 songs but on my phone usually around 200.

16. what instruments can you play? I used to play the children’s flute.

17. who do you have the most pictures of? My family.

18. where would you like to go before you die? I would like to see something in Asia, Eastern Europe countries sound nice too and maybe Australia. 😁

19. what is your zodiac? Virgo.

20. do you relate to it? Yep, definitely. Look at this:

“Strengths: Loyal, analytical, kind, hardworking, practical. Weaknesses: Shyness, worry, overly critical of self and others, all work and no play. Virgo likes: Animals, healthy food, books, nature, cleanliness. Virgo dislikes: Rudeness, asking for help, taking center stage. Virgos are always paying attention to the smallest details and their deep sense of humanity makes them one of the most careful signs of the zodiac. Their methodical approach to life ensures that nothing is left to chance, and although they are often tender, their heart might be closed for the outer world. This is a sign often misunderstood, not because they lack the ability to express, but because they won’t accept their feelings as valid, true, or even relevant when opposed to reason. The symbolism behind the name speaks well of their nature, born with a feeling they are experiencing everything for the first time.”

21. what is happiness to you? I think just the feeling of being at ease, knowing that everything will be alright. Spending time with people you love with all your heart and people you know love you back. Laughing, sometimes even at your silly mistakes. Jumping up and down in front of your computer because of a confession scene. Smiling widely at the finished story on your laptop’s screen. Listening to cheerful songs. Cooking something that you and also others around you enjoy. Happiness is going to bed with a content sigh and a smile on your face, so even if you are tired, you know you’ve had a good day.

22. are you going through anything right now? Of course, we’re always going through something.

23. what’s the worst decision you’ve ever made? Giving second and third chances to the wrong people.

24. what’s your favourite store? For clothes, it has to be either New Yorker or Takko Fashion. For others, it’s DM, CBA and ALDI.

25. what’s your opinion on abortion? I think I can’t say anything about this topic as long as I’m not in the exact person’s shoes. Everyone’s case in different, so I don’t think there’s a good or a bad answer concerning abortion.

26. do you keep a bucket list? Yes.

27. do you have a favorite album at the moment? Bobby - Love and Fall.

28. what do you want for your birthday? Haha don’t know. I still have time until my next birthday. 😁

29. what are most peoples first impression of you? I have nice eyes. 😁

30. what age do you seem according to most people according to most people? I think maybe 17-19. Though I’m not sure.

31. where do you keep your phone while you’re sleeping? On a table in my bedroom.

32. what word do you say the most? Probably fancy.

33. what’s the oldest age you would date? Don’t know. I haven’t really thought about it.

34. what’s the youngest age you would date? The same as before.

35. what job/career do most people say would suit you? I actually haven’t heard anything like that from others.

36. what’s your favourite music genre? I don’t have a concrete music genre I like, I love a bit of everything.

37. if you could live in any country in the world, where would it be? That’s a tough one. Maybe somewhere in the UK or in Korea. 😁

38. what is your current favourite song? Don’t Forget by iKON, Runaway by Bobby, Woman by BoA, Siren by Sunmi.

39. how long have you had this blog for? Around two years.

40. what are you excited for? Finishing my soft bf!iKON series. ^^

41. are you a better talker or listener? Listener.

42. what is the last productive thing you did? Wrote down my daily schedule, worked on assignments and studied Korean.

43. what do you want for christmas? A handbag. 😁

44. what class do you get the best grades in? In high school, it was English, but in uni I don’t really know for the time being. 😁

45. on a scale from 1-10, how are you feeling right now? Oh gosh, I’m so nervous about my Microeconomics midterm results but other than that I’m doing pretty okay, so maybe 7?

46. what can you see yourself doing in 10 years? Pfff... what a question. 😁

47. when did you get your first heartbreak? Only friends broke my heart and not boys.

48. at what age do you want to get married? It’s not my life goal to get married but you know whenever both of us are ready.

49. what career did you want to have as a child? Oh I wanted to be so many things; teacher, handball player, singer, actress, songwriter, restaurant owner, pilates instructor... So yeah quite a long list. 😁

50. what do you crave right now? Toast with strawberry jam. (Thanks to Yunhyeong’s eating show that I started watching yesterday. 😁)

I would like to tag @dat-town, @lily-blue, @binkygee, @lthyl, @snakescript, @fornarniaandforthefandom, @baektoyoo, @parkjaeins, @velvetjjks, @llynnfics, @seokwooinspace, @wonjays and I think that’s it for now. ^^ No pressure though. <3

[maxattack-powell]

Davenport's Have Feelings Too

Davenport’s Have Feelings Too (2-3a)

***This is a original fic that takes place during 2-3 of my adaptation of The Freshman - the entire fic is from Becca's POV***

Masterlist - go here for other chapters and related original fics

Disclaimer: The following are fics (adaptations from actual game chapters AND original works) to Choices: The Freshman and The Sophomore stories. It is a fictional adaptation. I do not work for Pixelberry Studios, the game developer or own the rights to the characters Chris Powell, Nicole or any other IN GAME character. All of the ORIGINAL characters, storylines and events were developed for my adaptation of The Freshman story.

Comments: I enjoyed playing Choices The Freshman… and then I found this awesome group of people and their works - I’ve loved it all, very much so. Deciding that I wanted more interaction than the options allowed, I’ve gone through the first book, chapter by chapter (omg painfully slow) to follow the story (95-99% I’d say) and add to it as I felt would benefit. Now I am doing the same to Book 2 as well.

Basically, I wanted to include certain things that weren’t really full fic worthy, adding more substance to the story. However, I did add some full size fic moments also… some are included in cannon chapters and some are their own full chapters in between. I wanted to see MC and Chris through their freshman year… with more angst, fluff, sweetness, real life and overall detail. So, if you like that pairing then you’ll be satisfied, otherwise sorry James & Kaitlyn fans lol. I even added some parts from Chris’s POV, so that we have a chance to see what he’s thinking, knowing what she experienced.

NSFW moments in future chapters - Mature Readers Only Please

Paring: MC x Chris

POV: ~Becca~

~Becca~

She’s standing near the double doors at the top of the concert hall, her arms crossed as she stares down at the stage. It was audition day, and she is going to get the lead. She has to, because--

Her thoughts are interrupted as the door opens, sunlight instantly flooding the dark lobby area briefly. She spins around, her eyes landing on the last person she wants to see, making her eyes narrow. ‘MC.’

She watches with contempt as the tall blonde floats across the room with an infectious smile on her face. James instantly notices her. ‘Of course.’ Becca sneers.

He walks over to her with a huge grin on his face. “Take a look, MC. I’ve got a whole cast of actors… all thanks to you.”

Becca snorts quietly and grumbles. “Perfect MC… always able to do everything for everyone…”

She turns when Logan yells behind her. “Yo! When do auditions start? You’ve got to cast me as ‘Footman 2.’ I was born for that part!”

Tripp stands and looks at Logan and then towards James and MC. “That’s the part I’m reading for!”

Madison giggles from her seat in between them both. “I get to be an oak tree!”

Becca rolls her eyes and sighs. She wonders if her friend will ever be safe alone.

Edgar speaks up as well, but she promptly ignores him, her eyes focused on someone else suddenly. Chris walks over to MC and flashes her a sexy smile. Becca sees the leggy blonde swallow hard as he steps close to her, almost speaking too low for Becca to hear. “I assume you’re reading for the part of Lady Darling, right, MC?”

Becca feels her blood pressure rise slightly as he leans in close to MC. “It sounds like we might be sharing an onstage kiss...”

She can’t stand it any longer and walks by with obvious attitude, sneering as she passes them both. “That’s assuming she gets the part.”

MC quickly tears her eyes from Chris’s and stares at her. “Becca? What are you doing here?”

She flashes MC a salty smile. “Trying out for the play, of course!” She narrows her eyes as she continues to sneer at MC. “With me as your competition, you've got no chance of getting this role.”

MC’s face scrunches up as she shoots a glare right back. “I guess we’ll have to wait and see…”

Becca scoffs at her and turns, heading down to join Madison, Logan, and apparently also Tripp. She looks at the three with confusion, wondering how this scenario is even happening right now. Sure, Logan had been hanging around Madison more and more over the last quarter so seeing him here wasn’t that unusual. First they would hang out at and after the games, then they went to California, and she knew they went to the national championship with Chris… and… MC.

As she approaches the same row as her friends, Becca turns to glance back. She watches as Chris and MC walk down a different aisle, their hands linked tightly together as they enter the opposite end of the same row she’s now standing on. She frowns as she watches him insist that MC enters the row first, closely following behind. Her frown deepens as she sees him hook his finger through one of MC’s belt loops and tug her back to him playfully every few steps.

James climbs up onstage and prepares to start the auditions. “First, I just want to thank all of you for trying out today….” He continues but Becca doesn't hear him as she slips past a few other students including Tripp, Madison and Logan to take her seat.

Her eyes occasionally look further down the row, seeing Chris and MC leaning close together, obviously whispering to each other. She sits down with a sigh, smoothing her skirt out as she tries to sit very straight and proper. Logan yells from his seat next to her though, shaking her out of her deep thoughts.

“Hey, the paycheck’s not a bad place to start! Cha-ching!” He laughs and stands up to high-five  one of his friends in the previous row. She hisses at him to sit down.

James shifts on his feet, a small frown appearing. “You’re… not getting paid for this. You know that, right?”

Logan's face falls. “Wait, what?”

James clears his throat. “Uh, let’s move on, shall we? Let the auditions begin!” He glances over the crowd and laughs. Becca doesn't understand why until he speaks again. “We’ll be starting with… MC!”

Becca rolls her eyes and grumbles under her breath. “Of course…”

She tries not to be obvious as her head turns slightly to watch MC. She sees Chris grab her hand before she stands up and they look at each other for a moment. Becca frowns deeply but wipes it off her face, quickly replacing it with a smirk as MC passes by on her way to the stage.

“Try not to blow it, MC…” Her smirk bleeds into a glare. “When I beat you out for this part, I want it to be because I’m a star. Not because you screwed up.”

MC pauses and turns to look at Becca. “Thanks for the pep talk.”

Becca almost frowns as MC smirks back, confused. She quickly sneers instead. “What? How was that a pep talk?” Becca gulps lightly as MC’s smile flattens and her eyes narrow. She leans toward Becca and… ‘Is she...growling?’ Becca leans back slightly.

“You just gave me all the motivation I need to crush this audition and make sure you don't get the part.”

“Oh yeah? Well, you know how actors are supposed to say ‘break a leg’ instead of ‘good luck?’ Good luck.” Becca scoffs. ‘Lame response Becca…’

MC snorts as she straightens up and continues to glare at Becca. “Thanks, but I don’t need it.”

She glares into MC’s back as the tall blonde walks off. She quickly looks over towards Chris, noting that he was watching the whole thing. When their eyes meet he shakes his head and turns his attention to the stage. Becca sighs and slumps down into her seat a little more than before. She watches as MC takes the last few steps towards the stage, unable to understand how MC looks so calm, so confident as she glances at the script and takes center stage.

James yells out. “Don't worry, MC. You’ve got this. Just breathe, and... Go!”

Becca’s eyes flick back to the fit blonde, seeing her expression shift to reflect her characters agony. “Oh, cruel irony… the morning sun itself rejoices at my misery!”

She sees James’s smile and nod, making her start to second guess her decision to try for the same role.

“To think it would shine such on this gloomiest of occasions… my wedding to the vile Lord Rathbone!” MC clutches at her chest and Becca can’t stop her eyes from rolling again.

She finishes and turns to James. “So… how'd I do?”

“Excellent work overall, MC. I’m impressed.” He gives her a slight nod before she leaps off the stage.

Becca’s focus is interrupted as someone approaches her right side. She quickly looks up and sees that it’s Chris. Their eyes lock for a moment and she feels, sad. She sees his expression and it makes her heart ache. He looks at her with a mix of shame and pity. He used to look at her with smiles, followed by laughter. ‘Well, sometimes…’ She also saw him with troubled expressions, sad frowns and quite a bit of dark brooding behavior. Never directed at her, but he wasn't anything like he is now. Now he seems more, light. Like he’s happy all the time.

She wants to reach out and grab his hand, her own twitching in her lap as he breaks eye contact and slips past, heading towards the aisle. Becca assumes he's going to congratulate MC, making her feel even more alone. She tries to be less obvious as she glances at him again, finding a proud smile on his face as he looks at the stage, locking eyes with MC. The tall blonde grins at him and he nods. Becca is about to look away until she sees him turn and leave the auditorium. She quickly glances at MC and sees the same confused expression she's feeling herself, wondering where he’s going. Confused, Becca watches MC from behind her hair as she slowly rejoins the rest of her friends.  

She hears Kaitlyn gush over her. “MC, you were so good!”

Then Zack. “I was moved nearly to tears… and not just because I’m jealous of your acting chops!”

“Thanks, guys. I can't wait to see your auditions!” Becca sees MC smiles at them both, making her want to gag.

James calls her name next and she decides to take the long way, walking past MC on her way to the stage. As she does, she makes sure to step on her foot. She ignores the glares the others give her, but can't miss the angry response from MC herself. “Seriously?”

“Ooops.” Becca hisses.

MC tilts her head and gives her an incredulous look. “Why are you being so nasty to me? Aren’t you tired of this yet? What did I ever do to you, anyway?”

“Like you don’t know.” Becca tosses her hair and continues toward the stage before her facade begins to crack, letting everyone see how hurt she really is.

‘How can she NOT know what she's done.’ Becca had seen Chris first and she had worked hard to attract him, to make him see her. But that perfect set of legs and hair just swooped in and stole him from her. A freshman even. She grinds her teeth a little as she thinks about it while stepping towards the stage. She hears them mumbling as she gets further away, not really wanting to hear them anymore.

Becca steps up on stage and holds her script close to her side. “I’ll also be reading for Lady Elizabeth, from her scene in the woods with William.”

James nods from his seat. “Wonderful, I’ll read the part of William. Let’s get started.”

Becca checks the script once more, then begins. “I know you're not happy, William. Neither am I. But this is my family. I have obligations, responsibilities… I can't just turn my back on them!” Becca looks distraught as she speaks the lines.

“Yes, you can. You must. Or you’ll lose my love forever.” James reads William’s lines with deep sadness.

Becca continues. “If you truly loved me, you wouldn't be capable of such a threat.” She gets angry. “I didn't ask to feel this way. I didn't ask to be born the daughter of a lord, and you a stableboy. I didn't ask for any of this.” She sighs and frowns. “You look at me and see everything you hate about the world.”

James reads the next lines with a sigh. “Aye… and everything I love, too.”

He closes his script and strokes his chin thoughtfully before he looks up to her. “That went well, Becca. You’ve given me a lot to think about.”

Becca startles, completely caught off guard by his response. “Really? I mean…” She quickly composes herself and flashes her standard smile. “Of course I have. I trust you’ll make the right choice.”

She steps down from the stage and throws MC a dirty look before walking over to join Madison. She smirks lightly to herself, finally feeling like she might have a shot against the ‘perfect one’ sitting a few seats away from her. She glances over when she hears whispering from MC and her minions, but she can't make it out. Becca decides she doesn't care, once again flipping her hair over her shoulder.

She notices MC looking around after a minute, and she knows for who, as she is also curious where he has disappeared to. She shakes her head, trying to become indifferent. He left her, why does she care. Her jaw flexes as she remembers that day, right before the formal last quarter, when he came over to break up with her. She sighs, knowing he didn't really break up with her, because no matter how much she wanted to be more, he would never commit to her.

Now she knows why. She started putting it all together over the last few weeks of fall quarter. On the trip to California, Chris chose to bring MC and she watched as they were inseparable. Everytime they slipped away, Darren or Logan would magically find them again. Becca didn't miss the annoyed expression on Chris’s face each time either. He clearly wanted to be alone with MC, and he got it after that first night as they were missing often before and after the game. Her stomach feels unstable as she remembers that trip.

Then she heard about their trip to the national championship. Darren didn't go, so she wasn't invited this time. Logan took Madison, and with his current behavior, she can see why. When they returned Madison wouldn't shut up about all the fun they had, how Chris and MC had to catch up the morning of the game, making her instantly curious why they were seperated from the entire group. Then when Madison just happened to mention that she shared her room with Logan on the second night, Becca couldn't stop herself from asking where MC was.

She didn't want to actually know the answer, realizing that fact too late as Madison innocently told her she was with Chris in the guys room that night. She tightly closes her eyes, trying to force the old feelings deep down. She had spent the winter break coming to terms with the fact that Chris is not at all interested in her, really that he never was.

He had been drawn to MC since they ran into each other the first day of the school year. Chris was right when he told Becca that she knew it too. Yes, Becca knew Chris was really into MC way before he realized it himself. Just as he said the night he ‘broke up’ with her. She sighs and picks at her perfect nails, too deep in thought to pay attention to the auditions.

After a while Madison turns to Becca, disrupting her pitty trip. “Does it seem like Tripp and Logan are acting kind of… weird.”

Becca quickly looks around and realizes the guys have both left for some reason. She sighs and glares, taking out her frustrations on her innocent friend. “This is pretty dense, even for you. They’re obviously both crushing on you.”

“Oh no! What do I do?” Madison looks at her with concern.

Becca smirks. “Milk it for all it’s worth.”

Madison leans to look past Becca to MC a few seats down. “MC, have you ever had multiple people like you at once?”

“Uh...” She glances behind her for some reason, then to Zack who gives her a shrug as he sits between them, causing her to frown slightly. “Yeah… kinda...”

Becca snorts and bites her tongue, trying not to say more. “Brag much?”

“No one is talking to you Becca.” MC eyes narrow and Zack crosses his arms, both glaring at her simultaneously. She turns her eyes away from them, not able to deal anymore.

Madison frowns. “Two guys is already one too many for me…” Suddenly she becomes excitable. “I guess…. I guess I’m going to have to decide who I like!” She sighs. “This could take a while. It took me like an hour to pick out my socks this morning.”

Becca sighs again. Her friend was becoming more difficult to deal with lately. She wonders if it’s Madison or herself that’s the issue. She assumes the latter, but only to herself. Her mind begins to wander again, this time focusing on MC instead of Chris.

She remembers her first encounter with the taller blonde. When she approached Chris and MC that day in the quad, she could see the way they were looking at each other. Her stomach flipped instantly, sensing that she was about to lose the game before it even started. Chris was looking at MC with something she had never seen before in her life, and she was instantly jealous. Who did this skinny Freshmeat think she was, looking at her quarterback.

It was unacceptable, and she needed to learn her place, so Becca purposely dropped her iced coffee at MC’s feet, knowing it would cause some serious damage. What she didn't expect was the way Chris had reacted when it covered MC’s clothes. He was so attentive, so concerned. Becca hated it. He had been friendly with her, but he never treated her like that. Even over the entire quarter, he kept her at arm's length. Sure, they talked some, about family, friends and other homesick subjects, but he had always kept her at bay when she tried to advance their relationship.

She realizes now that they never actually had a relationship. Maybe a friendship, but just barely. They don't even talk now. She lets out a frustrated sigh and digs at her cuticles as more students approach the stage to audition for their parts. She doesn't notice anyone until Madison moves from her seat on the other side of Logan. ‘When the hell did Logan get back?’

When Madison gets on the stage, she simply stands politely in the center. James looks at her for a moment, obviously confused. “Uh… which character are you reading for?”

She smiles warmly. “The oak tree! How am I doing?”

His face twists into some new expression all together. “That’s… not a character. The characters are all, you know, humans.”

She frowns. “So… so MC lied to me?”

Becca smirks and looks towards MC in time to see her grimace and yell at the stage. “Sorry, Madison!”

James lifts an eyebrow. “You can drop out if you want, but I think you'd be really good as Flora, the maid.”

Madison's frown instantly disappears. “Well… I guess I’m already here. Let me give this a shot…” She reads the lines from the script and James smiles.

“Nice work Madison. Thank you.” He nods at her and she smiles wide as she steps down from the stage and joins Becca again.

She's about to fall back into her thoughts when James calls out across the theater. “Next up is…Chris!”

Her head snaps up and she looks at James. He looks around, not finding the man in question. “Uh… where is he?”

Tyler looks around wide eyed. “I think I saw him outside…”

Becca wants to jump up and go out to find him herself, but MC quickly smiles and stands up. “I’ll go get him.” She waves briefly to James as she heads to the door.

After a few minutes of constantly glancing back at the door, they finally come back in. Becca doesn't miss their locked hands. About halfway towards the front they seperate and Chris jogs to the center of the stage, flashing a smile towards the audience. Becca curses herself as she pretends it's towards her. She then realizes that MC is still standing in the aisle, watching him. Becca’s eyes narrow as she looks back and forth between the two. Something was… different… between the two of them since their California trip when she saw them last. She just couldn't put her finger on it.

Still smiling as he stands on the stage, Chris speaks. “I’ll be reading William’s scene, when he and Elizabeth share their first night together after he returns from the war.”

Becca doesn't miss when his eyes fall on MC’s briefly, the corner of his lips curving slightly, probably only for MC to see, but she notices as well. She clenches her jaw.

James nods without looking up. “Okay, Chris. Let’s see what you’ve got.”

Chris looks down and takes a deep breath. When he looks back up, he's exuding a calm confidence. “The stars changed when we sailed south… The farther we went, the less of home there was to hold on to, the familiar constellations replaced with strangers…”

He lets out a slow sigh. “When we crossed the equator, even the North Star was lost to us.” His gaze rises finally, once again finding MC’s in the dimly lit auditorium. Becca hisses quietly and crosses her arms.

“But I found my way back to you, in the end. When everything around me seemed strange and threatening… you were my guiding star.”

She sees Zack jab MC with his elbow as he smirks, still facing forward and MC sticks her tounge out at him briefly. Becca wonders what all that is about as she studies MC’s face. She can't deny that the tall blonde isn't nice looking, in fact she's downright gorgeous. She doesn't act like she is though, and that's part of the appeal. Becca makes note that she isn't wearing a lot of makeup, and her hair isn't curled or styled just so, but she's still beautiful.

If she's honest with herself, Becca will agree with anyone if they said that MC and Chris were a good match physically. She was tall and athletic, so she's able to keep up with him in a lot of ways. Her natural beauty is a good match for his almost rugged handsome features. Her cooler skin tone complemented his sun kissed golden skin, balancing each other out in a very pleasing way. Her platinum hair looks almost white when she's next to him, making his auburn highlights stand out on the normally basic brown colored hair.

James interrupts her musings, looking at Chris thoughtfully before cracking a smile. “I've got to say… that was a pretty impressive performance.”

Chris looks at him hopefully. “So… I’m in?”

“Well, you're certainly in the running. All casting decisions will be finalized tomorrow morning.” James nods.

“Feels like I’m back in high school, waiting for the coach to post the list of starters.” Chris laughs softly.

Becca catches herself smiling when he laughs. She hasn't heard that sound in a while so hearing it now was a nice treat. She glances over at MC and sees her give him a reassuring smile. Her thoughts return as she studies MC’s face, finally realizing something. Sure, she was jealous of MC because she now had Chris. But that's not the new realization. No, what she just realized is that she’s also jealous of Chris, because he now has MC. She blinks a few times and shakes her head, trying to understand what just happened.

James smiles and nods at Chris. “Something like that. Yeah.”

Chris makes his way back to the group as James waits for the next actor to climb on stage. Becca watches as MC quickly leaves her seat, walking over to take a seat beside James.

She can barely hear as MC keeps her voice low when she speaks. “So, what did you think of Chris?”

James looks up towards the stage and not directly towards MC. “He was… interesting.” Becca frowns, wondering what he means. She shakes her head slowly, silently disagreeing with his flippant tone.

“Interesting? What do you mean, ‘interesting’?” MC’s brow furrows as she searches James face. Becca finds herself agreeing with the young woman, her irritation starting to grow.

"I thought he was amazing. He was practically glowing on the stage.” Becca nods once before she catches herself.

“You're not wrong. Chris has an undeniable charisma. He has a real movie star quality about him…” He finally looks at MC and sighs. “But… I’m not sure that’s a good thing.”

Both of MC’s brows arch high. “What do you mean?”

Becca’s eyebrows do the same as she leans a little, trying to pick up more sound if possible.

James clears his throat. “William is supposed to have more fire. There’s an anger at the injustices of the world lurking just beneath the surface.” He looks straight into her eyes, unmoving. “I just wasn't getting that from Chris.”

Becca scoffs. ‘Is he blind..?! There has to be something going on here. Is he mad at Chris for taking MC…’ It hits her then, that James might in fact be upset with MC. She doesn't know how she feels about that. Part of her wants him to be angry with her, to make her feel bad. The other part of her wants to protect her, to tell James where to go put himself. She bites her tongue and does nothing, knowing she's too confused and angry right now to think clearly.

MC looks back at him for a few seconds before she answers. “I guess I see your point. I just know this is really important to him…”

He turns his eyes down to his clipboard in his lap. “Sorry, MC… I can't cast people based on how badly they want it. I have to be fair. Anyway…” He looks around the auditorium and raises his voice. “It’s time for the next audition. Kaitlyn, you're up! Who are you reading for?”

Becca forces herself to pay attention, not wanting to let her recent, highly confusing thoughts creep back in. She clears her throat and look over to Kaitlyn as she stands and makes her way towards the stage.

“Duke Eccleston.” The raven haired girl grins as she climbs the stairs.

James’s face turns confused. “The Duke? But he’s--”

Kaitlyn smirks. “A guy? Theater has a long history of men playing women’s parts, right?” She lets out a small laugh as James nods. “I say it’s time we balanced the scales.”

He chuckles, giving her a large grin. “Point taken. Let’s see what you’ve got.”

Kaitlyn's face darkens. “Young man, you dishonor this woman, this noble house, and this very empire with your love! If you had any common decency, you would sooner throw yourself upon your sword than shame this daughter of England with your commoner’s infatuation. Leave these lands, you cur, and be quick about it. If you are not over the county line by morning, I shall loose my hounds upon you!”

The room falls silent as everyone stares at her in awe. MC turns to look at James, her mouth slightly open in surprise.

He glances back at her with the same expression before turning back towards the stage. “Wow. That was intense.”

Kaitlyn smiles timidly as she wrings her hands together. “Intense good..?”

He cracks a huge smile once again. “Intense very good.”

While Kaitlyn beams and clambers down from the stage, James turns to MC, his eyes thoughtful as he speaks in the hushed tone again. “What did you think, MC?”

“Kaitlyn was incredible.” She easily replies. Becca actually agrees with her.

“I thought so too… she really has a fire about her.” His eyes narrow slightly as he continues to study MC, completely unnoticed by anyone but Becca. She narrows her eyes and studies him in return, trying to figure out what he's thinking.

“Oh yeah. I can definitely agree with that…” MC laughs.

His expression turns even more reflective. “Yeah… this is an interesting development. I wonder…”

“She was… passable.” A familiar thin, regal looking young man walks up next to them both, standing in the aisle and staring at Kaitlyn as she settles into her seat.

“Sebastian? How long have you been here?” James looks up at him, startled. Becca’s eyes follow James, her mouth opening slightly in surprise as she studies him. She remembers seeing him at the party MC and the others hosted the other night, but she didn't talk to him. She barely knows his name.

Sebastian almost scoffs as he answers. “Long enough to see several of your so-called ‘actors’ in action.” He adjusts his jacket and tie, brushing some invisible lint off the lapel. “It seems I’ll have to carry even more of the load than usual.”

MC’s face immediately turns dark as her eyes narrow. “Why don't you keep it to yourself.”

He turns his gaze to her and sighs. “How… disappointing. This is clearly why your performance was so lackluster… You refuse to take constructive criticism.”

Becca moves a few seats closer, suddenly interested in the conversation and the new arrival. “Oh… I can't wait to hear this.”

His eyes snap to Becca, unwilling to hold back at all. “She’s not the only one who needs a few notes. Neither of you truly inhabited your character!” He makes a disgusted face before looking torn.

“I felt like I was watching… a play on a cruise ship. Or… community theater.” He shudders slightly, then walks away.

MC’s expression twists even darker. “He’s so--”

“Hot.” Becca interrupts as she watches him walk away. “And I think I heard someone mention he's rich too.” A sickeningly sweet smile crosses her lips.

James looks at her a little confused. “Aren't you supposed to be into Chris or something?” Becca feels her heart fall and her stomach twist. She doesn't miss as MC sinks back into her seat slightly. Okay, now she knows something bigger is going on between ‘Legs’ and Chris.

James starts up again. “I heard--”

Becca holds up her hand, instantly silencing him before he can continue, not at all interested in rehashing her embarrassing loss against MC. A loss in more ways than one. “Boys are like cars. There's always a better one out there, and unless you get a new one every year, you look poor.”

“That's just… wrong.” MC looks at her sadly.

Becca shrugs, pretending not to care about MC’s judgement while she ignores the frown and clenching jaw she sees on the tall blondes face. She doesn't really mean it, but she can't let MC know how badly the entire scenario has hurt her. No one will ever see something like that from Becca Davenport. She knows Chris is a good guy, thats why he never touched Becca, even when she tried every trick in the book. He didn't budge, because he was fixated on someone else. She didn't really mean what she said about him, comparing him to a car, but no one was going to see her sweat. Forget about crying or anything else that may fall into the same category. Never.

“Interesting… very interesting.” Becca smiles like a shark, deciding to keep her walls up high. It’s safer that way.

The auditions end and everyone splits, heading their separate ways. Becca tries to hide her interest in Chris and MC, watching them leave with the rest of their suitemates, their hands locked together as they talk softly to each other as if no one else exists.

She sighs and turns back to Madison, Logan and their recent addition, Tripp. “Come on, Madison. Let's go back to the house.”

Later the next morning, everyone arrives at the theater to see the posted cast list. Becca is there early, knowing how important punctuality is if you want to make a good impression. She turns and sees Chris and MC walking up, hand in hand. She groans and turns to look elsewhere while she waits to see the list.

“Right on! I got the Footman 2 role. Booyah!” Logan energetically fist pumps.

Abbie’s face lights up. “And I’m Lady Rose Darling, Elizabeth’s mom!”

Becca gets her chance and leans in, running her perfectly manicured finger down the list until she finds her name. “Lady Leona Darling? I’m the sister?” She fumes, spinning around to find MC close by. “This is… this is obviously biased! You had the inside track all along!”

MC raises an eyebrow at her statement and leans in to search for her name. Becca becomes suspicious as MC bounces around in her spot, finally turning to Chris. “I got the lead!”

Becca’s eyes narrow considerably. “This isn't over, MC. Trust me on that.”

Chris grins at MC and places his arm around her waist as he leans in to search the list himself. “Wait…” He pauses and his face turns confused. “I didn't get my part either. I don't see my name by William.”

Becca stares at him in disbelief. He was perfect during auditions, even though James kinda said otherwise. He was clearly wrong. She can't believe what she’s hearing, her eyes snapping to the list, trying to see if she can read who got the part. She hears the confusion in Chris’s voice when he speaks. “Looks like it went to…”

[monmonstres]

Happy Christmas Bitch, Here’s Some Sin

@teenwolve

jk, I love you Chloe. Merry Christmas!! But there is not joke, here’s some sin for you and your lovely followers!! I think you know what this is based on. warnings: biting, a teeny tiny amount of blood (honestly nothing too bad?? it’s kinky don’t worry about it), bruises, too much alcohol, smoking and bathroom cigarettes, hair pulling, light choking, sin based on personal sin, fictional people based on my friends but they’re your friends now bitches enjoy them they’re assholes, it is definitely implied that the reader character is not straight or at least fine with getting down with other girls, (sorry guys, this is kinda a gift to Chloe more than anything), ummm, yeah?? also, not beta’ed or proof read, have fun!

So, how this group of friends all ended up half naked in a circle playing Spin the Bottle was a mystery... Not really, it had everything to do with the alcohol. Don’t pass around two bottles of champagne, four six packs of beer and cider, and mixed drinks with whiskey, rum, and vodka unless you want to end up kissing all your friends with the only thing separating what God gave you is skippy underwear, not even afforded a bra, bit it’s fine, you aren’t the only one like that.

You pulled away from Gordon, after Thomas slapped your ass where Eliza left a dark bruise and welt with her teeth earlier in the night because you were quote “taking too long”. You groaned but slightly you were thankful that he did that. Things tended to get messy when you were drunk, but all is well because you spin the bottle. Your drunken hands somehow finding the coordination to spin the bottle hard enough to leave everyone on the edge of their metaphorical seats since all of you were on the floor. It was a perverted game of Duck Duck Goose that the Goose was chosen by an empty beer bottle that you are pretty sure it was the one that Eliza deep throated but you didn’t want to bring that up again.

Finally, after it’s torturous spin, it landed on the person you’ve been wanting all night, Dacre. He was the only friend that you had yet to kiss or do anything with and this game might have been a carefully crafted ruse made by you to start something and it might have included you lying about never playing Spin the Bottle, but that doesn’t matter now. Everyone cheers and you lean in next to each other, letting your lips meet. 

It’s a mess, both of you are drunk and a little bit horny and it’s just a blur. You hear Gordon make the comment that he usually has to pay for porn to see something this good. Both of you smile but your hand comes up from Dacre’s neck to stick your middle finger in Gordon’s face. 

Finally, you get the little cheeky idea to bite him to end the kiss. You let your teeth dig into his bottom lip and pull away. The only problem was that your are plastered and judging how much pressure you’re using did not happen the way it was suppose to and he groaned. 

As soon as you were off of him, his finger was running across the inside of his lip and pulling away to revealing it being slightly bloody. “You cheeky little birdie!” He pretended to be mad, but his eyes were alight with joy and maybe a little too much fire, “You made me bleed! I’m going to get you back.” You’re only response was a wink. 

The game continued, more alcohol was consumed, more people were kissed. It was a good, gay, debaucherous, time, but your reprieve and your time was up. It was Dacre’s time for revenge. You landed on him again and without a moment’s hesitation, his hand was pulling at your hair, roughing pulling you into him, making you cry out and his lips were crashing on yours. Someone, pretty sure it was Jenny, said “Oh fuck, Gary, why the fuck don’t you kiss me like that?” But there was no response from the two of you, you were lost in each other. You could have guessed that this was coming but he sunk his teeth into your lip, drawing just as much blood. For good measure, just to get the message across, he let his hand smack against your welt again, making you jump and fall further into him.

You were panting when he finally let you go and you needed to catch your breath. He spun the bottle and it landed on Jenny. They went in for a kiss but she pulled short, “Oh my god, are you bleeding?” She asked like the true mom friend that she was and he just smiled.

“No, it’s Y/N’s.”

You smiled, a little bit of blood cleaning to your teeth to prove the point. 

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

The game finally died down and a smaller group of you found yourself in one f the bathrooms smoking one last cigarette, that being your drunk social habit. You were reclining in the bathtub with Dacre laying in between your legs with his head resting on your bare chest, sharing a cigarette. His hand was rubbing up and down your leg absent mindedly as he took another drag off the cigarette. 

“Hey! Don’t smoke the whole thing,” you complained vaguely. 

“I don’t know, I think after biting me, I deserve this.” 

“You bit me back, jerk!” You cried out, but it was a happy sound, much too drunk to be anything but in a good mood. “And you slapped my bruise!” 

He made a face at the last remark.

“Oh, what’s that for now?”

“Nothing.” 

You plucked the cigarette from his hand, “Nope, that’s not an answer and you’re not getting this back until you tell me.”

“You should have more marks on you from me.” 

You didn’t quite know how to respond to that but before you could even try. Gordon spoke up. “Do you guys need some private time? Because we can go...”

The both of you turned to your little audience and before either one of you could apologize, Thomas spoke up, “I know! We could have an orgy!” 

“No,” was Gordon and Jenny’s response. 

The rest of the scene in the bathroom was rather uneventful but it was when you were heading off to bed when you pulled Darce towards you before he could crash on the futon and pulled him into another rough kiss. It was just the two of you in the dark hallway.

Dacre pulled away to breathe but he looked at you, confusion clear in the darkness, but you were pulling his wrist with you to your room. “Babe, what are you doing.” 

“You said that I should some more marks from me so,” you opened the door to your room, “Come mark me up.”

With that, you didn’t even quite remember how you got to the bed but he was all over you, your lips, your jaw, your neck, your chest. Wherever he went though, his teeth were digging into your skin, sometime hard enough to make you cry out, but it was always followed by little pants of his name that made him growl.

He finally had one of your nipples in his mouth, the pressure of his teeth finally relenting to a lighter pressure, and he was ripping off your panties. He switched sides and moaned when you felt his fingers teasing your slit, already wet for him.

He kissed down your body. He slipped two fingers into your core the same time he dug his teeth into the sensitive skin of your ribs, making your throat tighten and your head spin. 

There were dark marks in the pattern of his teeth on your hips before he had you squirming with his fingers fucking into you. He kissed around your core, dragging the torture out before you called out, “Please, Dacre, do something!” 

He smiled up at you, a devilish grin on his face. His fingers slowed, barely even moving. “I didn’t hear you babe, what was that?” 

You glared down at him but you knew there was only one way to get that mouth on you. “Please, Dacre, I need your mouth. I need your lips wrapped around my clit. I need your tongue fucking me. Fuck, I just,” no, you weren’t going down like this. You laced your fingers in his hair and tugged with all your might, making him take a sharp inhale of breath, “I need to come on your tongue so hard that I forget my name and I need to come so god damn hard that you will remember the taste of me on your tongue until the day you die.” 

He swallowed hard and you gave him the same devilish grin, “Did you hear me that time?”

That wasn’t even graced with a response, his mouth was on you and he was fucking you with his two fingers. It was so sudden that you moaned out his name in a high pitched breathy voice, making him groan against your sex. It felt so gad damn good and you had no idea if it was the alcohol or him that was making your head spin this hard. 

He was drawing shapes with his tongue on your clit as his fingers curled against your g-spot. It was all too much and you were repeating his name like some sort of prayer and you felt that smirk on your skin but you didn’t care. All you wanted was his tongue to keep doing that thing. 

You were grinding into his face and he eventually had to pin your hips down just to keep a good angle and everything consistent. Your voice cut out and there was that coil in your belly that was tight in almost hurt. He could feel your whole body tensing up and that is when he started sucking on your clit, making you tumble over that cliff loudly. The whole house probably heard his name on your lips but neither of you could care. 

But there’s no rest for the wicked. Dacre barely gave you anytime to recover, needing your body now. He flipped you over and pulled your hips up. You got the idea and as he pulled his underwear off, you got on your knees in a more comfortable position and arched your back. You left him lean over you, his erection pressing against you, kissing down your back. It was much more gentle than when you first started but to only aggravate the situation, you wiggled your hips into him. He held some skin over your ribs in his teeth, only hard enough to be a warning that you’d be in pain if you kept being a brat. You giggled and he let the skin go when your hips settled, but you weren’t worried about it. You felt the smile on your skin as he continued to kiss down your back.

He reached your ass and the one cheek that wasn’t marred, he let his teeth sink into that the hardest he’s done yet tonight. You let out a loud yelp, the sensation being so unexpected and painful but you felt yourself get wetter from it. He came back up to whisper in your ear as he lined himself up at your entrance, “Mine’s bigger,” but before you could complain, he pushed into, a moan cutting off any of your complaints. 

Both of you were a mess, it was desperate moans and his lips were all over your shoulders. His teeth found the junction of your shoulder and neck and left something comparable to the mark on your ass, making you moan louder but he kept going, feeling you clench down on his length. 

With you practically writhing underneath him at his bruisingly fast pace, he stepped it up a notch somehow. He tucked an arm underneath you and pulled you up so both of you were on your knees. Your weight was supported on his forearm and his hand came up to lightly squeeze your neck. His free hand went down to rub your clit, getting a groan out of you and he smiled.

“I want you to cum, babygirl. Be a good girl amd cum all over my cock.”

You moaned a bit your lip, just trying to cope with the tightness in your core that Dacre’s size caused, the friction, the restricted air flow, everything was too much.

With a final cry, you released on his cock, spasming around him, making him groan and spill his release into you. You felt his warm cum wash over you.

The both of you fell in a heap, exhausted. It was quiet for a moment before the turned to cuddle into his chest. He welcomed the contact and pulled you close. The movement making you groan.

“I bet I look like a wild animal mauled me,” you finally spoke. He laughed.

“What can I say? You drive me wild.” 

“I hate you,” you said through tired laughter.

“No you don’t.” 

“You’re right, I don’t,” you sighed happily as you nestled your head into his chest. “We should do this again sometime.” There was a little more vulnerability in your voice.

“Oh, we definitely are,” he responded, a hand running through your hair, and that’s the last thing you remember.

[fuckyeahevanrwood]

Evan Rachel Wood on Suits and Sci-Fi

When Evan Rachel Wood walked onto the red carpet at the annual Golden Globe awards in January, where she was nominated for her role in HBO’s fantasy Western series “Westworld,” the simple fact that she was dressed in a suit created a frenzy. A few weeks later, when she again eschewed a dress in favor of a suit at the Screen Actors Guild awards (where she was also nominated), a trend had been cemented.

“I knew that when awards season rolled around I wanted to walk down that red carpet in a Marlene Dietrich suit [and] just take a stance, because I know there’s pressure and I know there’s all this fear involved of not being liked or not being wanted or not making a best-dressed list,” Wood says. “And I just thought I don’t want to live my life like that — and I don’t think other people want to either.”

The role in “Westworld” has provided the 29-year-old with dual opportunities to raise her profile: her performance has been highly celebrated (she is now up for an Emmy, rounding out the season), and the subsequent awards circuit has given her a platform on which to model her commitment to freedom of expression.

Wood is on the phone from California with a nearly lost voice from several days of filming out in Santa Clarita. “We’ve been shooting this really intense sequence for the past week and we’re shooting in the desert, and there’s no service and we have all this stuff to do,” she says, the morning after a long night shoot. “I try to explain it to people sometimes; they’re like, ‘Dude I can’t get hold of you, what’s going on?’ and I’m like, ‘You don’t understand. ‘Westworld’ is all-consuming. Once you’re in, you’re in.’”

The intensity of the show — an average day includes filming in 113 degree temperatures or coming home to “wash dirt and blood off of me every day” — is what has drawn its masses of fans; the series is HBO’s most-viewed first season of an original series to date.

“It transcends the genre that is you think of a sci-fi show — you don’t expect it to be so profound or emotionally riveting,” Wood says of the show’s power. “And I think the themes it touches upon are all eerily relevant. Even though it is science fiction, it still is based in reality, weirdly, and [touches on] where technology is headed and the nature of human beings.”

Her character, Delores, is originally read as the classic damsel-in-distress trope but is revealed to be a much more layered woman. “When the show first came on the scene everyone was really worried because they had seen these images of me getting dragged and [took it as] violence against women and everyone sort of thought, ‘Oh great, here we go again,’” Wood says. “And then it turns out she’s this fierce warrior who is completely breaking that mold and taking a stand and saying no and changing the story.”

The show is tied with “Saturday Night Live” for the most Emmy nominations this year, including one for Wood. The ceremony, on Sept. 17, is the final big awards show for television stars — and the actress plans to arrive in her now-signature suit.

“I knew how I felt as an actress and as a woman, and I figured that if I felt that way, other people must feel that way, too,” says Wood, who has been acting since age 9, including a Golden Globes-nominated role in the film “Thirteen” in 2003. “I remember growing up as a teenager in the industry, there was massive amounts of pressure and a lot of opinions being thrown at you about what is good for you and what is good for your career, that goes against what feels right for you and your identity. I remember being a teenager and doing some photo shoot for a teen magazine and I really didn’t wear dresses — I was very shy and tomboyish and gangly, and had not gotten comfortable in my body yet — and they kept sending me dresses and I kept saying I really didn’t want to wear a dress, and they were, like, ‘You either put the dress on or we’re not taking your picture.’ And I remember doing the photo shoot with tears in my eyes because it was just so f–king uncomfortable.”

Wood is heavily inspired by David Bowie, whom she calls her “high priestess,” and by Dietrich in her top hat and coattails.

“I’d grown up looking at Dietrich, going ‘what a badass’ and that amazing suit that she wore was such an inspiration for me,” Wood says. “I was like maybe if I just go for it then we can start making it OK and have less pressure to feel like you have to fit the mold. And also because it didn’t feel honest to kind of perpetuate that, especially when young women are watching, and they take a lot of the cues from you and pop culture and fashion. So when I found out I was nominated I was, like, ‘All right, that’s it.’”

Wood has worked with celebrity stylist Samantha McMillen since she was a teenager, and together they partnered with Joseph Altuzarra to create custom suits for her various carpet appearances.

“I really admire Evan’s style and confidence to take chances and affect change through her look,” Altuzarra says. “The message she wanted to convey on the red carpet really resonated with me, so to work with her on tailoring options was a special collaborative experience.  She’s such a dynamic individual and her commitment to her look is so powerful, it’s contagious.”  

“It’s helping her to express the message that she wanted to send — it was kind of being who you are and wearing what you want to wear and not worrying that you won’t get your picture in the paper or be in the best dressed list because you’re in a suit,” says McMillen of Wood’s choice to wear suits. “Obviously, we try to look our best, but being who you are is the main thing — to be comfortable in what you’re wearing and not being afraid to be yourself and not conforming to what you think everybody has to look like.”

And if equating a red carpet fashion choice with real social power seems trivial, the reception Wood has received this past year — and is likely to see at the Emmys — disagrees.

“Look, I wore the suit and that might seem like a dumb, insignificant thing to some people, but little things like that really do make a difference,” she insists. “Anytime you can put something out in the world that you know people are going to see that might inspire them or change the way they think about something, then do it. Now is the time.”

[thecreativegeorge]

The Implications of Immortality

What would an urban fantasy story be without some sort of immortal swooping in and taking over the story? We all love the idea of immortality, living forever and witnessing the changes and advancements in society and the wider world. But there are some things authors don’t take into consideration when they romanticise life after death.

But wait, what is immortality?

In the shortest and most obvious sense, immortality is the ability to live forever – whether or not the person is unable to age, change or die via mystical artefacts or wooden skewers is up for debate. In fiction, however, there are conditions and variables to this “living forever”.

When you decide to make a character immortal, whether by vampirism, mystical artefact or God’s curse upon you, you need to first decide the conditions to your character’s inability to leave this rock. Such as:

Complete immortality: Your character just won’t die. Ever. Think God With A Capital ‘G’, you’ll just wander the earth for all eternity.

Retroactive immortality (my personal favourite): Your character can die, but won’t stay dead. Think Captain Jack Harkness, or Prometheus reviving overnight to have his liver eaten all over again at dawn.

Biological immortality: Eternally young, but still able to be beaten to a bloody pulp. Like the vampires in most fiction books, gorgeous but still able to bleed.

Purpose-driven immortality: You’re only immortal for one purpose, Kassandra, and that purpose is to pass the spear on to another person. And then your body crumbles to dust because you’re really two thousand years old.

Spare bodies: You’re immortal because you’re secretly the body thief from the Vampire Chronicles. Your spirit/soul/whatever will always come back in another body.

Now, I want you to think about how your character became immortal. Was it...?

A Fountain of Youth: Or another method of reversing the ageing process. A potion, a bath of infant blood, something that, if taken away, will render you mortal again. (Whether or not the ageing process will catch up with you is up for debate.)

Induced: Something which renders you immortal, and that I can take away to reverse the process. Have you placed your soul in a jar and hidden it in the Andes for invulnerability and immortality (and caused the jar to become your weak spot)? Or is your consciousness routinely placed in different bodies, or a machine (Hello, Zemo)? Have you partaken of the Elixir of Life to regain your lifeforce, health, or your youth?

Taken: You take the lifeforce of someone else to sustain yourself. Vampires, succubi and incubi, all those who drink blood or have sex with you only to take your breath (or life) away.

Given: Someone has granted you immortality, but is it a continuous visitation to maintain your immortal state or a one-time deal? And what are the consequences? Because, believe me, darlings, there will be consequences.

Also for your consideration:

But what if, something went wrong with the immortality process. Or you’re only immortal through your legacy.

Think about it. Reality ensues, and your eight-hundred-year-old vampire looks like a mummy. Or your zombie acts like a zombie because reality happens and you’re a bloated, brain-dead, decaying corpse.

Reality can also happen in that your immortal mental state will decay over time. Memories fade, and unless it’s a prominent and traumatic memory, your character won’t remember much of his youth. He will also lose his marbles a bit, because, let’s face it, humanity’s not the best at niceties and his age is taking its toll.

In terms of an immortal legacy, there are a few options. Consider if your character wants to preserve someone else’s legacy, like the Jack the Ripper copycats. Or if it’s a master-apprentice chain taking the same names to create a legend (so the Master trains the Apprentice, then the Apprentice becomes Master, and Master trains the Apprentice. Or the Immortals of Persia, who were an elite branch of the military). Or if your legacy is because you were such a dirtbag in life people still talk about you after you’ve been buried for four hundred years. Or, like in Coco, you thought you died eating a chorizo (which is a euphemism, I discovered, for male genitalia), and nobody will let you live it down.

And now we can get to the science!

I’ll start with biology, and the usual disclaimer of “I’m not a scientist, I just research binge”. Okay, so genetics are the things which make your appearance what it is, and susceptible to certain diseases and other such horror stories. But they also determine energy production, and most importantly, cell reproduction. Your genes are the coding to your body’s function, like how your computer knows what to do.

What this means, is that if your immortal is physically frozen at the age he was when he died, then how do his cells reproduce? A fountain of youth might reset the clock, but does he then have to relearn things because his brain no longer maintains those neural pathways? If your immortal has cancer or a genetic predisposition, how does the immortality impact this?

Too much? Okay, I’ll move on.

Do you want to know what the consumption of human blood does to the human body? Live Science tells me it could kill us. But, vampires, I hear you scream. And I’m telling you: diseases transmitted through bodily fluids. But mainly that blood contains iron. We know this. But in high amounts, such as a wine glass, our body cannot extract it. This is haemochromatosis, or iron poisoning, and it causes liver damage, a build-up of fluid in the lungs, dehydration, low blood pressure, and nervous disorders.

And I shall end with the mundane worries. This is my speculation, so I could be wrong. I get that interest and money could be a good thing. But you’d be committing fraud when you buy a new house (name, age, date of birth), or you might end up paying inheritance text when you “inherit” your “grandfather’s” house. And how do you pay the bills for electricity and water? I’m assuming more fraud, or your fictional city-within-a-city has re-routed some pipes and has pre-established houses in an estate.

What’s the lesson of all this?

Well, first of all, there isn’t really one implication of immortality. Immortality comes in many shades. So you need to think about how your character became immortal and what the conditions and consequences are. And explain them in-story, so we’re not left wondering how Jeff is immortal. Or why there’s a duo of idiots running around Gotham in it’s-not-spandex-it’s-body-armour.

Secondly, you need to think about the real-life implications and complications of immortality. Think of the conflict and drama it could bring!

Humans have not evolved to extract iron from the blood, we will die of iron poisoning.

Genetic mutations may complicate immortality.

How the hell does your immortal have a house? Did he commit fraud?

Now, go forth and think about the implications of immortality.