#perhaps if i had known this when i was younger i would have actually hit 5 feet tall

[just-another-obsessed-fangirl]

im not sure if anti vertigo medication has cured my vertigo so much as overcuring my insomnia. like yeah, doctor, i havent been having as much dizziness lately but thats because i havent been awake enough hours in the day for that to happen.

[sotwk]

The Best Gift (Legolas x unnamed OC)

Summary: Legolas wishes a "dear friend" a Joyous Begetting Day--but anonymously.

Dedication: For my dearest @quickslvxrr, who has been such a constant and patient supporter. I'm so sorry it took forever to grant such a simple fic request from you. I hope this brings you some joy during rather difficult times. <3

Word count: 1.3k

Rating: General Audience

Content: Fluff, comedy, romance, shy young Legolas, secret pining, brotherly banter, OC Son of Thranduil (Prince Gelir) 

Warnings: None

To Read on AO3: LINK

The Best Gift

Third Age 556 June 26th

The Woodland Realm

“What in Araw’s name are you doing?”

Legolas gave a muffled cry and stumbled back a couple of steps, but caught his balance before he could crash into the shrubbery outside the small kitchen window. 

“Get down!” he hissed at his brother Gelir, grabbing the older ellon’s sleeve and yanking him down to the dirt beside him.

His heart racing like frightened deer’s, Legolas listened carefully for changes in the movement within her cottage, any sign that she might have overheard his dolt of a brother’s voice and sought to investigate. Mercifully, the melody of her sweet humming continued to float uninterrupted from the open window. 

“Oh, are you the only one permitted to wish our dear friend a Joyous Begetting?” Gelir smirked and punched him on the shoulder. “If I too had a gift I wished to present to her for the occasion, would you pound me?”

“No!” Legolas blurted out quickly; too quickly. “Wait--have you brought a gift for her?”

“I have not, because I had assumed your answer to that question would be yes. And as little as I fear your wee hits, honeg, I do not particularly enjoy being on the receiving end of them.” 

Gelir shoved the younger prince aside, leapt lightly to his feet, and crept over to peer above the windowsill. Legolas held his breath, despite knowing Gelir would never be seen or heard by any elf, man, or beast if he did not wish for them to. The worrisome issue was the great pleasure his brother seemed to derive from embarrassing him at every open opportunity--something one might assume a grown elf would grow weary of after two and half centuries, but it had yet to happen. 

Thankfully, after an agonizing few seconds, Gelir dropped back down to their hiding spot. “I see you opted for the purple night lilies.” He cocked an eyebrow at Legolas. "I seem to recall Ammë setting certain conditions on the use of the rarest blooms from her garden."

"You recall correctly," said Legolas tersely. All four of his elder brothers were frustratingly knowledgeable of the details of his personal business--a result of the powerful bonds that linked them. But Gelir was easily bored, and the only one to actually stick his nose in for active meddling. "She did not set a time by which I am required to make myself known."

"And is Ammë also aware you have spent--on my guess--at least the last two hours sitting outside this unwitting maid’s window hoping that she would come to some sort of epiphany?”

Legolas thought about the smile that lit up her face so beautifully his entire chest ached, and the way it had stayed on her face the entire time he waited there, content to just observe the joy he had caused. 

“I believe she knows. Or is close to discerning it.” 

“You are right. She must realize eventually that a plant so rare and valuable could only come from a high lord or prince.” Gelir snapped his fingers. “Perhaps I should walk in there and take the credit and her fair heart to boot!”

Legolas jerked his head suddenly. “You wouldn’t!”

“You are right. I would not; that would be wrong.” Gelir leaned in closer, his expression suddenly stern. “But it is just as egregious to carry on as long as you have, making veiled overtures to this lady rather than mustering the courage to speak the truth of your feelings plainly to her face.”

“The pursuit of someone’s affections must be like hunting. When you hunt an animal, you go with the focused intent of finishing the job as quickly as possible. You do not toy with the creature to scare or confuse it and cause it needless pain.” 

Gelir clamped a hand on his younger brother’s shoulder. “I may not know what it is like to lose my heart in this manner, little brother. But I know it is unfitting that I show greater respect to animals I stalk than you do to someone you profess to love.” 

The sudden outpouring of wisdom from his wise-cracking brother rendered Legolas speechless.  But something on his face must have quelled Gelir’s baser instincts to tease and mock him. 

“Explain your struggle. Where does all your hesitation lie?”

“I…she…” His brother seemed so genuine this time in his desire to help, that the words broke through Legolas’s reluctance to expose his vulnerabilities. “What if she does not feel the same way I do? What if she will not have me?”

“She does and she will.”

“How do you know for certain?”

“Because I have two eyes and I use them,” Gelir said flatly, his patience already worn thin. “Unlike the both of you, evidently, who cannot gaze directly at each other's faces long enough to notice how nauseatingly smitten you are with one another.”

Legolas’s hands curled into tight fists. Against his better instincts, he wanted to believe it. What maiden could refuse a son of the Elvenking if he offered her his heart?

Well, she could, in all likelihood. For what was his title against true beauty and grace such as hers? Why should he be her first choice when she could have anyone in the entirety of Eryn Galen?

“Bah! Enough of this tragic nonsense.” Gelir’s hand around his arm easily tugged the dazed Legolas to his feet.  “I will not let you waste any more time squatting here like a toad. And even toads have the sense to croak and announce their intentions.”

Gelir hooked his arm around his brother’s hunched shoulders and gave him a firm shake. “Perhaps a few bottles from Ada’s cellars might rally those nerves, eh? Come. With any luck,  you can make another go of it before the day’s end.”

As they trudged around the hedges to start the trek back up to the King’s palace, Legolas wrestled with the sense of failure at his retreat. Why could he not be more like his brothers, if not like their father? Afraid of nothing, brimming with confidence to speak their mind to anybody. What was stopping him?

Nobody. Nobody but himself. 

Legolas froze in place so suddenly that Gelir nearly lost his balance. “What--?”

The younger prince turned to squarely face the pathwalk leading back to the cottage, glaring at the bright green door with the intensity of one about to leap across an impossible distance over a deadly chasm. 

“Yessss. Go on!” He distantly heard Gelir hoot as he began his determined stride up the path. 

But then he heard something else. Footsteps. A doorknob turning. 

The color drained from Legolas’s face and his legs turned to lead. He twisted about to scurry away and out of sight, but a pair of powerful hands suddenly seized the back of his tunic, lifting him so that his boot soles left the ground. 

A hard, rough toss pitched the helpless elf to the cottage just as the door swung open. He flailed his arms out to regain his balance and avoid face-planting on the stoop, but not quickly enough to avoid bumping against the maiden that had stepped out of her home. 

“H-Hello.” He gulped down the panic that rose up his chest, as the nearness of her, such as he had never experienced before, enfolded him. Her scent, her warmth, her��touch? Legolas realized that she had raised her hands and planted them firmly against his chest, likely to help break his ungraceful fall. 

“I… uh, I came to wish you… that is…I-I just wanted to say…” Valar, did Gelir’s shove knock his tongue loose from his mouth?!  

“I wished so badly for it to be you!" she suddenly blurted out, and stuck forward her chin in her willful defiance of protocol.

“R-really?” Unexpected joy and relief burst out of Legolas’s chest like a flock of sparrows exploding from a bush.

The sweetest blush rosied her cheeks, but she still had not moved her hands from the front of his tunic, he noticed. “The flowers are the most beautiful present I have ever received, but knowing that what I had hoped for is true, that they came from you… that is really the best gift.”

“I do not believe there is anyone gladder about your begetting than I,” the elf prince avowed.

And as her whole face lit up brighter than Gil-Estel, as she slid her arm through his and guided him into the cottage, Legolas felt the nudge of a distinct sound inside his head: the chuckle of an older brother whom he had just given yet another anecdote to refer to the next time he wanted to crow over being “always right”. 

Elves HC Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @fizzyxcustard @freshalmondpandadonut @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @scyllas-revenge @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell

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[luxyue]

knife boots — part ii.

xiao x reader, figure skating au

masterlist | previous | next

➥ NEW VOCAB ❝ salchow ❞ one of the easiest jumps; taking off from a backwards outside edge it's generally the first jump you learn as you add more rotations !

ii. zhongli plays matchmaker

“Fuck this shit. I give up.”

“Yeah, well, you’ve given up at least twenty times this session alone.”

Since meeting Chongyun, he's introduced you to his friends, Xingqiu and Xiangling. Xiangling often spends her time helping her dad in the kitchens when she isn’t skating, but Xingqiu has no problem sticking around the rink, making fun of you all day, and he's only known you for, what, a week?

You vaguely remember his older brother, a talented ice dancer whom you’ve also met at international competitions. Xingqiu seems eager to follow in his footsteps, as a blossoming skater in his own right. Although, you would like him better if he didn’t choose to bicker with everyone around him.

“It’s also the twentieth time I’ve fallen on a triple toe. Leave me alone,” you groan.

“Fine, just because I feel bad. But hey, at least you’ve nailed triple sal!” he says, attempting to cheer you up.

You can’t help but roll your eyes. “In case you forgot, a triple salchow is worth basically nothing in singles.”

“Okay, fine. Then just do loops!” Xingqiu says, forgetting you can’t do triple loops yet either.

“I literally can’t—okay, you know what? Fine.”

...

Xiao can’t help but grimace on the inside every time he sees you land flat on your back. Or your side. Or even your face. Which is pretty often, considering you somehow keep choosing the same sessions to skate.

Not that he cares that much, but he’s fallen enough times to know how much it can hurt.

Although he has to admit, your resolve is unwavering. He’s not sure how you managed to fall on your 17th triple flip jump when you can’t even land a triple toe. He’s too caught up in watching you attempt your 18th when someone lightly taps his shoulder. He jumps.

“You know, it would not be above you to try and give her a hand,” says Zhongli.

“Isn’t that your job as a coach? Besides, she seems more intent on trying every jump before she can actually land one.”

“I’ve seen you standing here and watching more often than not. If you’ve noticed that, then why didn’t you just tell her?” Zhongli chides.

“I...” Xiao doesn’t have a good answer.

“I’ll leave you to it then.” Zhongli leaves with a smile on his face.

...

Xiao’s last straw is when you fall attempting a triple lutz.

As you sit there with your butt on the cold ice, contemplating your life choices, he skids towards you.

He sighs. “How many times are you going to attempt things that you obviously can’t do?”

You look at him wide-eyed since you haven’t really spoken to each other after that fucked-up first impression.

Normally you would have something better to say, but your self-esteem has been dwindling with each failed jump. Each time you hit the ice feels as if you’re proving him right.

“Not everyone can do things as effortlessly as you,” is all you can utter out.

Xiao scoffs. “Yeah, well, it’s not like I didn’t work as hard as everyone else to be here.”

“I didn’t mean it like that. But...I gave this sport my everything. Look where it got me,” you sigh.

“You mean winning Nationals, Grand Prix, Four Continents, and Worlds?” he says.

Now that was a surprise. Of course, you were still upset with Xiao after what he had said...but regardless, this was still Xiao Alatus. The best figure skater of all time—the skater you had looked up to during your entire career. Your younger self would’ve beamed with pride from the realization that Xiao had noticed you. “Wow, I didn’t know you were such a big fan of me,” you can’t help but tease, even if it was more like the other way around.

He gives you a glare, although the look in his eyes almost seemed...playful? Perhaps your eyes were playing tricks on you. “Yeah right. More like I was at most of those same competitions.”

You nod, memories of being in the stands with your teammates washing over you. “I remember...and you won. All of them.”

If only you knew that you had been cheering for him back then, too.

A sad smile takes over your face. “But the difference is that you kept winning. Meanwhile, I, like you said, lasted for what? One season?” you say, quoting his harsh words.

He looks away briefly before shrugging. “I was under the impression that you would be competing this season,” he replies.

What’s with the sudden optimism? “I was under the impression that you thought I sucked,” you reply back.

“You do suck.”

Pfft, that’s more like him.

You laugh, clutching your heart and feigning agony. “You wound me.”

Xiao rolls his eyes once again, scoffing at you. “I meant right now. But...you seem to forget you were doing quads and triple axels not too long ago.” He says the last part quietly, stringing the words together as if afraid to compliment you.

Not sure what to say or think of it, you give him a look. “Yeah, well, I’m barely doing triples and double axels now. What’s the use of competing like this?”

Crossing his arms, he responds. “Yeah, well, you have three months before the season starts. I’m sure the former world champion can recover at least a triple-triple combination before then.”

You open your mouth to speak. Then frown.

“What?” Xiao questions.

“Well...about that.”

Xiao is confused. “...Yes?”

“Snezhnaya.”

“What about it?”

Shoot. You’ve backed yourself into a corner. “I don’t know if I should tell you. I’m not saying their methods were good in any way, but sometimes I wonder whether I can actually skate the way I used to without them,” you admit hesitantly, hoping he doesn’t push for more.

“Methods?” Xiao’s expression becomes a stern one.

Shit.

“Um, yeah. Training methods,” you say, hoping for the best.

Now, Xiao just looks insulted. “I hope you aren’t insulting Zhongli’s methods.” Oh thank Baal.

“Of course not! He coached you after all. I wouldn’t have come here otherwise. I just don’t know if I have the...strength.”

“If you can survive whatever shit show Snezhnaya has going on, I’m sure you’ll be fine,” he reassures. You know instantly that he’s talking about the long-standing rumors of the grueling training that the Snezhnayan coaches put their students through.

...They weren’t all wrong, unfortunately.

“That’s not—actually, well...nevermind. But that’s not exactly my issue.”

“Then what is it?”

You sigh. “I just...in Snezhnaya, everything is so structured. Our entire days—no, lives, are practically laid out in front of us. Without that sort of supervision, I feel like I don’t know what to do on my own.”

Xiao offers you no pity. “So, you’re lazy, basically.”

Talk about brutally honest.

You can’t even reject his claims. “Umm...yeah. Essentially I just...don’t know how to practice,” you embarrassedly admit. What kind of world-class figure skater can’t practice on their own?

Surprisingly, he nods in understanding. “I can tell. I was wondering why you would go from triple salchow to triple lutz,” he says.

“Right. Because we skate the same sessions...” An idea pops into your head. Whether it’s good or bad...well, you’ll find out.

“You should help me practice.” You blurt out.

“What?” Okay, maybe not a good idea.

“You...should help me practice. Since we skate the same sessions. And since you’re very obviously much better than me.” If he doesn’t say yes—

“Are you sure? I’ve been told that people think I’m an ass. Not exactly a ball of sunshine...” he quotes your words.

You grimace, remembering what you said. “Sorry, I might’ve gotten a little carried away there. But don’t act as if you weren’t the one being rude first.”

“I suppose I was rather harsh too.” His words shock you to the core. He almost looked sorry, too. How did he go from ignoring you all week to this?

“So...is that a yes?”

“I’ll think about it.”

Careful to hide your excitement, you offer him a smile. “I guess that’s better than a no.”

On the inside, though, you’re dying. Xiao Alatus might help train you.

...

Zhongli smiles, watching you two from the security footage in his office.

[jadededge]

Tear You Apart | Ch.3

Pairing:  GOT7 x OC

Genre: Demon/Mafia AU, Romance, Smut

Rating: M

Summary: Jaebeom and Yugyeom are "running an errand" when the most delectable scent that he ever smelled hit Yugyeom like a ton of bricks. Yugyeom stops JayB and soon he smells it. They look across the street and see the her. They stalk her for awhile and finally get the chance to manufacture a meet with her.

Wattpad | AO3    (will likely always update these 2 places first)  

Navigation: Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3

Despite their busy and immortal lives, the boys try to have dinner together as often as possible. Gathering around the large oak table in their dining room, they share laughs and stories of the day. Relaxing and unwinding as a family.

"So, maknaes," Jaebeom starts. "I hear you had to provide some backup on Canal. How did that go?"

"We went to see Selah. I'm so sorry," Youngjae immediately folds and bows his head, hoping to be spared.

Bam sucks his teeth. "Youngjae, what the fuck man?"

"You did what?" Jaebeom asks calmly. Too calm.

The sound of silverware hitting plates echoed in the now quiet room.

"Aw shit, boys, why did you do that?" Mark asks.

"We only wanted to see her." Yugyeom adds with a pout. "We didn't even talk to her." He says leaning towards Youngjae.

Jinyoung must've caught that because he immediately followed up. "Bam. What about you?"

"Whatever. I talked to her. And I got her number."

All the older brothers sigh. Jaebeom continues to look. His chin starts to protrude.

"Son, why did you do that when we have her number?" Mark asked.

"I'm sorry, were we going to start texting her and tell her we looked up everything about her beforehand?" He laid it out. "I'm playing the boyfriend game." He leans back, looking proud of himself.

Jaebeom was pissed, but he was trying not to show it. He had a plan, and this... He stands, pushing his chair back to leave. "I'm going out."

"Either you've messed up so badly that he needs to go prepare to send you back or..." Jackson pauses. "Actually, I don't know what else he could be doing. Nice knowing you, Bam. I'll see you in 50 years."

Jinyoung chimes in with a disapproving tone, "You do know Jackson went to meet her as well? What will she think? We're meant to be playing this smart, and you've gone and added another complication to the situation. Yeah, Jaebeom should send you back."

"I fucked up, huh?" Bam says, hanging his head.

Mark, though known for his temper, is actually quite gentle with his brothers. Particularly the younger ones, and tries to comfort them. "Did you fuck up? Yes. But it will be okay. JB won't send you back."

"He might strangle you, though." Jackson says he is taking a bite of his food.

Mark gives him a 'stop that' look.

"What? Bammie, I invited Selah to the club. How do we explain to her that out of pure coincidence, she met both of us on the same day and that we know each other? You might have to miss the opening."

Bam lets out a puff of air ready to protest.

"That's actually not a bad idea." Jinyoung says. "You three will not be at the opening."

The younger ones begin to protest. Jinyoung holds his hand up and says, "Save it. This is perfect. Perhaps Jaebeom won't murder you if we can salvage this."

_____________________________________________________________

The weekend arrives, and everybody is a bundle of nerves. After adjusting plans, the boys feel like they're actually in a better place. Feeling that perhaps it would be easier to introduce her to four of them versus all seven.

The maknaes are on warehouse duty for the night, and they couldn't have been more sour about it.

"I can't believe I let you talk me into going with you. Now look at me." Youngjae pouts, looking into the distance.

Bam rolls his eyes and says, "Well, you hardly put up a fight at a gentle suggestion."

Yugyeom chuckles a bit. "You did come along pretty easily. We should just be happy we didn't get banished."

"Valid point. But I want to meet her now." Youngjae says.

Yugy juts his lip out, "Me too."

"Yeah she's great. Glad I talked to her when I did." Bam says proudly.

The other two side eye him.

_____________________________________________________________

Selah arrives at the club accompanied by her friend Brianca. She's feeling good about how she looks. The little black dress she has on is her favorite among the many in her closet. The tiny straps sit upon her glittering shoulders. The bodice fits tight on her chest with a side split that causes the material to lay nicely over her ass. Matched with a flattering pair of heels that elongate her legs and strap around her ankles is giving her a confidence boost. Not to mention, she smelled amazing.

She's hoping to see Jackson. Bam hasn't texted her. Which made her a bit sad, as she was hoping he would. But she figured she would at least have a good time, get her mind off the week, and look good if for nobody but herself

"Girl, this club is nice!" Brianca says to Selah. "And you said he's the owner?"

"That's what he said. So I'm not sure I'll easily bump into him." Selah responds by surveying the area.

"Let's get a drink!" Brianca suggests.

At the bar, Brianca has already been approached by a couple of guys and is chatting one up. She has a very inviting aura, so it's no surprise she's already deep in conversations.

At one point she leans over to Selah, "omg girl. This is that guy I told you about. That I went out with a couple of weeks ago." "The one with the.." Selah wiggles her brows. 

"Yes him." Brianca exclaims trying not to let him hear.

Selah chuckles, "well it looks like you're in for a wild night."

"Here's hoping." Brianca cheers with her friend and turns back to her presumed date for the evening.

As Selah is enjoying her cocktail, she feels a gentle touch on her shoulder that sends shivers throughout her body. Looking to her left, she sees Jackson. Managing her reaction, she doesn't smile too hard. "Jackson, hi."

"Selah, you made it." He's grinning from ear to ear. He takes a second to look her up and down. Without realizing it, he's licking his lips. "You look amazing."

This causes her to blush hard and look away briefly. "Thank you. You look great yourself, and your club is amazing."

"Thank you. I spotted you and wanted to be sure I had a chance to speak while things were going smoothly."

He needed to get her away from her friend and up to the private room. He can tell she cares about her and won't want to leave her alone or unsafe. But it appears luck was on his side.

"Brianca." Selah is turning to get her friend's attention to introduce her to Jackson. "This is Ja-."

But she's being lead to the dance floor by the guy she was chatting with. She looks back and smiles big at her friend. Quickly surveying the guy next to Selah she gives her a 'go get em' look.

"Well I was going to introduce you but nevermind I guess." She laughs.

Jackson sighs internally with relief, "No worries, we can meet later. She looks like a good time."

"Oh she's a blast in a glass. She'll be entertained for hours."

"In that case, would you like me to show you around?" Jackson asks as he holds his hand out for her.

"Sure. I'd like that, we sort of b-lined to the music, so I haven't seen the rest."

He leads her through the crowd and back toward the foyer. The place is actually quite large with a few different areas. One being the bigger bar and dance floor area they just left. Jackson shows her around the bottom floor. Even showing her a few behind the scene places before leading her into a lounge area. It's decorated in gold, with soft lighting and slow music, this makes for a nice area to chat.

"One of my brothers designed this room. He thought it would be a good idea to add an area that was much less chaotic than the traditional club atmosphere." Jackson explained.

"Oh you have a brother?" Selah asks.

"Yes, six actually." He leads her to the bar to order himself a drink. "Would you like anything?"

"Whatever you're having. Unless it's vodka." She makes a disgusting face.

Jackson chuckles and signals to the bartender, "please send over two glasses of Hennessy and ice. Thanks T."

"You got it boss." The bartender responds.

Jackson turns his attention to Selah, "Come, let's have a seat."

Settling in, Jackson takes this time to get a really good look at her. She's perfect. They begin a back and forth conversation that flows with ease. He asks her questions about herself that he already knows the answers to, but he loves hearing her talk, so this isn't a problem.

She asks about his business endeavors and he explains to her how he owns this a few other nightclubs. He mentions the corporation that his family runs, not the illegal things, obviously.

"So you have 6 brothers. That had to be hectic growing up." Selah comments.

"You could say that again. We're not exactly blood brothers, more very close friends, but we're brothers in just about every other way. We sort of came together at different times but we've been together ever since." She's listening intently. Jackson hasn't even used his gifts to any degree and she's already hooked on his every word. "Three of them are here now. I was hoping to introduce you actually. They've been dying to meet you."

"Oh, you've told them about me?" She's shocked, they only met briefly. "And you want me to meet them?"

He smiles and grabs her hand, gently caressing it. "Of course, we tell each other everything. So when I met a gorgeous woman, I told them immediately."

She was a bit hesitant but the moment Jackson touches her, she gets those same shivers. Being near Jackson, she finds herself alot more willing to go along with just about anything he says. Especially when he touches her.

She blushes, "Okay, sure."

He beams at her, "You're going to love them."

"I should text my friend and let her know."

This irritates Jackson. But he hides his displeasure. "Sure, no problem. "

He needs her alone and he didn't want to manipulate her to do it but this is becoming tedious. How do normal people live like this.

"Oh, she actually messaged to say she left with that guy. I must've missed it. I guess i'm all yours." Selah explains.

"Perfect." Jackson stands and extends his hand to help her up.

_____________________________________________________________

Leading her out of the lounge and through the club to the stairs, Selah feels lightheaded. She feels as if she's walking to another world. The decor is also darker upstairs. The walls are a blood red velvet with black damask patterning. The lighting is low and the music from downstairs is faded and becomes more faint the deeper they walk.

"Continuing the tour," Jackson starts. "This top floor has a few private rooms that special guests can use, as well as the offices."

He stops at a door at the end of the hall and on the other side, Selah knows deep down, everything will change once she steps in. Jackson opens the door and gestures for her to enter.

The room is spacious, continuing the same dark motif, but the colors are a darker green and black with gold accents. There's a full-sized bar and and lounge area with a large window across the way for a view of the entire dance floor from above. 

And scattered about the room are three of the finest men Selah has ever seen, apart from Jackson. It nearly takes her breath away. They are dressed in finely tailored suits, like Jackson, and they have this something about them she can't quite put her finger on. Maybe this was a mistake. She thinks.

Jackson places his hand on the small of her back and moves her further into the room, "Selah, these are three of my brothers." He points to one at the bar with a short haircut and a dazzling smile that warms her heart. "This is Mark, the oldest."

"Hello gorgeous, lovely to meet you." He finishes making his drink and comes to settle in a chair next to the couch.

"And this absolute cutie..." pointing to other one with a short haircut. His lips grab her attention and she can't help but stare at them. He chuckles slightly and bites his bottom lip. She had to stop her knees from giving out. Did he do that on purpose. "...is Jinyoung."

He rolls his eyes, "Could you not introduce me that way." He gives her a smile staring directly in her eyes making her melt.

"Why? Is he not adorable Selah?" Jackson turns to ask her. She blushes from being put on the spot. Jackson laughs. "And lastly but certainly not least, this is Jaebeom. He is our leader."

Calling this man gorgeous would be an understatement. With longer hair styled perfectly sitting across his neck. Selah couldn't help but imagine what it would be like to run her fingers through it. She's cursing herself for how hard she is crushing on her crush's brothers.

He nods her direction. "Nice to meet you Selah, you can call me Jay B."

Her head swims. "Nice to meet you all"

"Come let's sit." Jackson moves them to a loveseat next to Jaebeom and across from Mark. Jinyoung has his eyes trained on her.

All four of them are drawing her in, with their confidence and captivating aura. But just beyond that is something tugging at her, whispering danger. She's watching herself wade further into the waters. What is happening...

Tags: @openup-yourmind

[yanderes-galore]

A concept for yandere Professor Chaos with a hero darling that views him as their nemesis if you're willing to write for him please?

I'm going to alter it a little hit but it'll keep the plot! Aged up as usual! Wasn't sure where/how I wanted to bring the plot... so at the end it had two possibilities. I hope you liked this :D.

Yandere! Professor Chaos with Hero! Darling

Pairing: Romantic

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Violence, Enemies/Lovers but forced, Delusional behavior, Manipulation, Kidnapping, Obsession, Attempts at stockholm syndrome implied.

Professor Chaos is an extension of Butters in terms of yandere.

He's a somewhat incompetent villain that thinks what he's doing is horrible but really isn't usually.

He causes inconveniences more than anything for the most part.

Although in the games he is actually kinda threatening.

I feel he'd declare himself as your nemesis, like it or not.

Then he slowly realizes the genre of 'Enemies To Lovers' and decides that is what you two will do!

Perhaps it's time Professor Chaos had a... romance arc.

He knows he's supposed to be a bringer of chaos and not supposed to be loving.

Yet, Butters has known you before he and you took on an alter-ego.

When Stan, Kyle, and Cartman used him as a slave or punching bag, you were there for him.

Which made him... biased.

Naturally when he realized you were a hero he knew he had to do something.

He's easily one of the greatest villains in South Park.

It should be an honor for you and him to be enemies!

You're his nemesis now!

You may not even think of him as your nemesis despite what he thinks.

That or you do see him as a nemesis and just don't agree on the whole sub-plot he has planned.

Professor Chaos fantasizes about the arc you two could share for each other's character.

He hopes you can imagine it...

Professor Chaos and his nemesis... secret lovers in a world plagued by chaos of his design!

You act like you hate it... but you must love it as much as him!

He has this whole fantasy like something out of a comic book.

Even as a villain... Butters is still as soft as he was when he was younger.

The issue is his... execution.

He feels he can't hurt you when you fight.

You could beat him and he'd probably just accept it.

He also struggles trying to tell you his plan.

He loves you...! This could be important to your characters...!

Upon rejection... Chaos decides he'll have to persuade you.

Sure... maybe some enemies to lovers stories involve a little kidnapping-

He can make this work.

This little fantasy of superhero and villain pivots between actual illegal territory.

At first you thought this was some cute attempt at nostalgia!

Now Butters was actually holding you hostage in his house.

You thought you were just playing...!

This is the point you start to fear his delusions.

He stutters about it but he tries to be loving towards you yet also kinda mean?

He's really far into his delusions and this was a disturbing attempt at a confession.

That's if we were making this closer to canon where this is all some sort of game.

But if we're talking an actual superhero AU, it would be similar.

You didn't mean to get caught after Chaos tried to confess such a deal to you.

Yet Chaos is more insane than you thought.

Delusional, really... keeping you in a steel cage you can't break out of.

You always thought of him as evil.

Either scenario is a poor position to be in.

Then here he is... a lovestruck gaze on his face.

Claiming you warm his evil heart.

The first scenario is the most terrifying one.

Butters taking the game too far... thinking it's a good way to confess to you-

You hope that you'll be able to get him to reach his senses or get help soon.

Either by police or an actual superhero you don't care, you just want to be home!

[inu-mxki]

the only constant / levi ackerman x fem!reader

warnings: strong language

w/c: 2,848

a/n: been a little mia, but I’ve started watching aot for the third time so here we are!! hope you enjoy

Levi stares through the window of the borrowed room to the city streets below. Soldiers eagerly await news of the current mission, and although his face may not show it, Levi too felt the anticipation gnawing at him. There was so much at stake, and yet here he was, weak from his injury and lacking the energy to even pull gear over his head. He sighs deeply. Never has he felt so hopeless.

A knock at the door interrupted his thought process. Ah, yes. He wasn’t waiting here alone. Hange had instructed a member of their squad to stay behind, to keep Levi from making any rash decisions and to act as his sword if necessary. This soldier, who was now pushing open the door with her elbow, tray of tea in hand, didn’t even take a breath before answering her Section Commander’s wishes. Levi doesn’t remove his gaze from the window, although his mind was now anywhere but the happenings below. She hums as she places the tray down on the table, and he hears the soft sound of liquid hitting the bottom of a teacup. Hange wasn’t stupid, you see. They wouldn’t leave just anyone to watch over Humanities Strongest. Knowing he would protest and scald them for thinking he couldn’t hold his own even with an injury such as his, they chose carefully, wisely, and Levi had no objections, other than a disapproving huff for the Section Commander.  

“Tea, captain?” the woman asks softly, kindly, just as she always does, “I asked for your favorite, of course.”

Levi hums in agreement, and then with a quiet please, he hears her place a second cup and saucer down. Still, he doesn’t look in her direction. He finds himself getting lost sometimes, his eyes disobeying the command to turn the other way when it was her in his line of vision. Now he doesn’t trust himself, so instead keeps a steady watch on the restless soldiers below. The teacup comes into view as she places it delicately on the windowsill before him, saying “Drink it while it's hot, captain. You may need it.”

The woman’s name was Y/N Y/L/N, a fellow soldier Levi had known since his days as a cadet. She was a few years younger than him, but not by many, and a grown woman all her own. If it wasn’t for Hange taking an interest in her, Levi would have snatched her up way before Hange got the chance. But something held him back, something that eats at him whenever she’s near, and that was the main reason he hesitated in assigning her. That being said, she had remained a constant in his life, someone he had grown to trust outside of his line of work, mostly because she never gave up chipping away at his steely exterior.  

During their training days, she would beg him for help out of hours, despite knowing that being caught after curfew was punishable. He clearly remembers refusing to, but each morning in the mess hall she would be waiting to grab him once more. Eventually, he gave up, announcing he would only help her for one hour per week and that was all he was willing to do. He can still remember the way her eyes lit up, because even to this day, they still do – especially when the praise is falling from his lips.  

There was something about her that Levi couldn’t quite shake. Somehow, she had managed to make him give in back then, perhaps the only person to actually score a win against him, and that wasn’t the only time he’s been compelled to say yes. When she joined Hange’s ranks, he would see her most days around headquarters, and each time she would smile, stopping to ask how he was. And each time her eyes shone the same way they did all those years ago. He found himself getting a little lost in the shine of them, removing his gaze from her almost immediately. Y/N had been in his life so long, that he had become accustomed to her company, often choosing to sit by her during meal times and accepting her offer of tea when she came to see how he was in his office.  

It was always “How are you, captain? Do you need anything?”

Her visits were never to ask him for something, they were never for her own benefit, it was always just to check on him. At the beginning it had annoyed him, because for crying out loud, he’s a soldier not a child, but eventually it became routine. She would knock on the door, and the tea was already in her hands by the time he had opened it. He began inviting her in, listening to her talk about everything and nothing, and those times of peace became a ritual to Levi. It almost felt wrong when her knock didn’t echo throughout his office at the same time each week.  

But it wasn’t just tea and company, it was comfort when she could see through his brave face. Somehow, she could read his giveaways, and then the knock on his office door was much softer on those days. The night after his squad had died, the knock penetrated the silence of the room just after dark, and immediately he knew who it was. Anyone else and he would’ve told them to leave him be.  

“Captain,” she had whispered, tears rimming her pretty eyes as they looked into his solemn ones, “I just wanted to see you, I can leave if you wish to be alone.”

But he pulled up a chair beside him.

He told her how he felt.

How the guilt he felt for their death was almost unbearable since it was him who had chosen them. How, once again, his trusted comrades had left him, and now he was alone. Just as before.

It just poured out of him like water, and not a single word left her mouth. In fact, she barely made a move until he had been quiet for some time, and then he felt a steady hand on his shaking one.  

“I know it may not be much conciliation for you,” she said softly, so gentle, like the kiss of a feather against his skin, “but I will always be around to listen to you, captain.”  

But it was more than she could have ever imagined.  

And now she was sitting just behind him, sipping on tea and yet again not speaking because she knew that he didn’t wish to talk right now. No words had told her so, but she just understood him without having to ask, and that was something Levi treasured deeply. He had no idea how to spark a decent conversation. He turned slightly, seeing her from the corner of his eye as he placed the China cup between his lips. She hummed in satisfaction at the taste, and Levi, yet again, found himself looking for far too long.

“Good?” he questions quietly, and she nods.  

“Yes,” she answers sweetly, “is it okay for you, captain? If not, I can-”

“It’s perfect,” he cuts her off gently, taking another appreciative sip, “thank you.”

She smiles to herself, a little triumphantly. He finds the corner of his mouth twitching into something similar. Her eyes then meet his, and the smile only grows wider. His chest feels a little lighter when he can see her whole face, like everything going on outside the window is just a bad dream. Levi rises from his chair, but not before she rushes to her feet to help him. He offers a dismissive hand.

“Stay put,” he says softly, “I’m fine, honestly.”

He joins her at the table, just across from where she was sitting. She pushes forward a small plate of plain biscuits.

“You should eat something, captain,” she then says, “you need to build your strength back up. Not that I particularly think you’ve lost any.”

She laughs lightly. Levi has always found pleasure in the sound of her happiness, although it was a fact that he was willing to push down due to his nature. He simply didn’t have time to feel for someone. Caring that deeply for someone would only make his job harder; so, for the last many years, he has convinced himself that this woman was nothing special.  

He knows, really, how foolish that was.  

Because she was special, and sitting here, after losing so much in such a short time, he had been thinking long and hard through the glass pane of that window. He was wasting precious time with her, time that could be limited due to their jobs. He watches as she takes another sip, her painted fingernails, silky lips and soft, y/c/h hair. He wonders how she finds the time to look so elegant, but then again, he’s never known her to not look so. Even out in the field, he thinks she’s a stunning creature, and for the first time, he allows himself to believe it. He breaks the comfortable silence, pulling her from her own thoughts.

“We’ve known each other for quite some time, haven't we?”

When she looks up his eyes are pointed towards the teacup before him. She smiles yet again, a soft chuckle falling from her lips, and his gaze is drawn to her face.

“I’d say so,” she says, “but, in all honesty, sir, I wouldn’t be sitting before you if it wasn’t for your time and patience back then. I don’t think I’ve thanked you for a long while.”

“No need to,” he responds quickly, “I made the choice to help you, and now I’m glad I did. Made a fine soldier out of that little thing you once were, didn’t I?”

Her cheeks tint a subtle shade of pink, and her eyes are averted from his calm stare. She seems to have gone inside herself from that comment, and the little spark he suppresses in his chest seems to burn hotter upon the sight of it.  

“I owe you a lot, sir,” she then speaks quieter, still refusing to meet his eyes, “after losing so many people I often wonder if I should still be here-”

“Don’t,” he says firmly, and her head shoots up, eyes wide like a deer in headlights. It wasn’t as if she wasn’t used to his stern tone, but it never makes it any easier to hear, “you are here because you have earned to be. What I taught you back then wouldn’t save you now. You have learnt the hardships of battle on your own back. No one can teach you like sheer adrenaline in the face of death.”

The soft eyes he has come to know turn into glittering determination. The same look that made him give in all those years ago, and upon seeing her true will to keep fighting, he couldn't help but train such a promising young woman. The world needed a soul as strong as hers, not only for battle, but for the unlimited compassion she was able to give.  

“Thank you, sir.”

“And what's with the formalities all these years, hm?” he raises an eyebrow, “doesn't seem that long ago when you used to call me by my name.”

“Well, it just doesn’t feel right now, sir,” she goes on to say, fiddling with the handle of her teacup, “since you are my superior, we are no longer on equal footing. It would be wrong for me to address you so casually.”

“Equal footing, huh?” he repeats quietly, taking a sip of the tea that was now growing cold, “not sure how I feel about that sentiment.”

“But, sir-”

“Is it not you who has remained a constant in my life?” he interrupts, an air of utter seriousness about him, and she doesn’t dare to even move a muscle, “is it not you who graduated by my side in the cadets? Or you who has managed to, somehow, find a way into my personal space without repercussion?”

Still, she doesn’t move, but her eyes are full and staring at him, shining behind a glossing layer of tears. He takes a deep breath.

“What I'm trying to say is,” he then lowers his tone and leans slightly on the table to get closer to her. His eyes meet hers, and she sees the man she has always looked up to and, over the years, grown to love unconditionally, “this world has truly gone to shit, and a lot of people I care about are dead,” he cuts to the point, and ever so quietly, he hears a tiny whimper from her lips, “but you, you’re still here, bringing me tea like someone asked you to, listening to my whining, never turning away even though I’m a closed off bastard,” a light puff of air escapes her nose and the ghost of a smile curls at her soft looking lips, “and I’m grateful, eternally and wholeheartedly grateful.”

“Captain-”

“No,” he cuts her off, “not anymore. Say my name. Like you used to.”

Maybe it was selfish of him to ask that of her, but he was dying to hear it. A lot of time had gone and passed since she addressed him that way, and memories of her whinging and moaning when her muscles ached and the dragged-out Levi that would tumble from her mouth started flooding back.  

“Levi,” she then whispers, and the small spark that was gradually getting hotter and brighter in his chest erupts, sending a wave of warmth over his entire body.

“Y/N,” he then returns, and its soft, delicate, full of adoration. She smiles a watery smile, and then reaches out, but not before she awaits his consent. He finishes the job for her, taking her hand like it was made of glass and placing her palm against his cheek. He feels her thumb brush his face, and for a moment he lets go. He breathes out in content, closes his eyes and relishes in the touch of the woman he has come to cherish.  

And although it may never leave his mouth, he loved her.  

He loved her like he reads about in books, how the world seems happier, brighter, more vibrant and fruitful when the person you love is standing in it. How the bad times are just times that are bad, and they will pass, and left behind will be the one person who holds you up when your legs are too tired, when the world is cruel and the tunnel seems to drag on forever.

But he sees now. At the end of that tunnel, is her.

At the end of the treacherousness will be her.  

“Levi,” she sounds again, and he hums in response, almost like he’s falling asleep against her hand, “we should head back to the wagon soon.”

“Nah,” he whispers, “if they want me, they can come and get me.”

He doesn’t open his eyes, and he hears the most delightful giggle from her chest. He then feels her other hand touch his face, cupping it like he’s never done any wrong in the world. And, when he opens his eyes into hers, the look she gives him is the same. She looks at him like he’s never raised a blade, never stolen, hurt or deceived other people. Like he’s new again, and he realizes, she has always seen him that way. Right from the very beginning.  

All she has ever seen is a person.  

“Alright, then,” she says softly, “I’ll go and get more tea, and something more substantial for you to eat. I’ll be right back.”

She goes to move, but his hands take her wrists gently. If he lets go, will she return? Just like she has all these years. From the look on his face, she can tell he has begun to overthink, so quickly quells his anguish with a swift, precious kiss to his knuckles.

"Just a few moments,” she tells him, and then she’s gone, through the door with a soft click. He watches the doorway she left through, and for the first time in his entire life, his heart feels full and the weight he bares on his shoulders isn't so heavy.

Because she’s willing to carry half of it.

And as he turns to look back through the window to the outside world, it doesn’t seem so sullen anymore. The sun was shining down and casting shadows across the buildings, birds were chirping, the sound of a laughing soldier echos up through the glass panes, and he thinks to himself, as long as she remains the constant in his life, it doesn’t matter what's waiting over the brow of the hill, because wherever they are, near or apart, they will always find their way back to each other.

Like destined souls, fate keeps them together, and as he hears the door click back open, he prays that every time she leaves, he will hear her turn the handle in return.  

[willowbird]

for the fic prompt any trans Andrew thoughts? Or trans Neil or trans andreil lol dealers choice

DID SOMEONE SAY TRANSDREIL!?

But I would like to raise you... trans!Kevin. Because it has been STUCK in my HEAD for MONTHS now.

---

The knock on the door was heavy but sluggish - more of a crash or a thump than a knock at all. At first, David thought that it was some dumb kid being a jackass (even 5 star hotels had shitty guests), but then it came again. And again. And again.

Then, as David sighed and begrudgingly rolled off his bed to go to the door, he heard a thin, rough voice call through it: "Please... I don't know where else to go..."

David picked up his pace. He did not know what he expected when he jerked the door open, but the teenager standing there was not it - especially not in the state that they were in.

"What the actual fuck, Kaitlyn?

Kaitlyn Day, daughter of world-famous violinist Kayleigh Day and then adopted by Kayleigh's close friend Tetsuji Moriyama in the wake of her mother's death. David had known her for most of her life, albeit from a distance. He had been close with Kayleigh when they'd been younger, and although they'd had something of a falling out shortly before she became pregnant with Kaitlyn they had stayed in touch enough for him to have developed at relationship of sorts with her daughter.

Kaitlyn flinched away from him, actually stumbling backwards quickly enough that her shoulders hit the opposite wall.

"Shit," David cursed, stopping himself from rushing forward. Instead he lifted his hands in a steady, placating gesture and lowered his voice. "Fuck. I'm sorry kid. Don't worry I'm louder than I am mean, you know that. Come on." He stepped back into the room and held the door open for her, doing his best not to stare at the shadows under her eyes or the blood at the corner of her mouth, the bruises starting to form. David Wymack had seen his fair share bruised and battered kids, though, so maybe that was why it was almost more off-putting that, in addition to the physical trauma clearly on display, from the way she held herself to the blood and the bruises, her hair had been chopped off. It hung in uneven chunks around her face, and as she passed by him into the room David saw that there were some patches that had been so close to her scalp the blades had nicked the skin.

Swallowing his questions for the moment, David glanced quickly down the hall -- one way and then the other -- before shutting and locking the door. When he turned back around, Kaitlyn was standing clear on the opposite side of the room, hugging herself and chewing her thumbnail down to the quick.

David gave himself another twenty seconds to get his shit together, then he took a deep breath and stepped forward.

"Kaitlyn, what the fuck happened?"

Even though his voice was calmer now, steady, she still flinched. David grit his teeth against the bubbling of anger that churned in the center of his body -- a vat of blistering, protective rage that was getting closer and closer to boiling over every time she shirked away from him. Perhaps he did not know Kaitlyn as well as he might have if he and Kayleigh had been better to each other, if they hadn't fallen out in the way that they had, but he didn't have to be in the girl's inner circle to know that this... this timid thing before him was not her.

Kaitlyn Day was a fucking thunderstorm in human form. As captivating as she was terrifying, she was a musical prodigy that had been performing in huge, prestigious venues since she was three years old, first on the piano, then on violin, then flute, before stunning the world yet again when she opened her mouth and started to sing. International cross-genre acclaim was achieved when she was only fifteen, after she and her adoptive brother Riko diverted from classical music in a bold move to form a pop band.

She was an idol, with adoring fans on every continent.

She was also, David was remembering very suddenly and with a sharpness that hurt, an eighteen year old kid. She was a wildfire, but she was not invulnerable, and someone had hurt her.

"Kaitlyn," he said again, and he lowered his voice even further. He made himself as small as he could, sinking down to sit on the coffee table that filled out the small sitting area of the hotel suite.

Again, Kaitlyn's shoulders hitched up and her face turned, her brown condensing into a sharp v of discontent. When David opened his mouth to speak again, though, to plea with her to tell him what the fuck was going on and to demand she point him in the direction of the sorry fuck who touched her, her eyes snapped up to his and he finally saw that it wasn't only fear, it wasn't only pain. Burning right beside whatever trauma she was wrestling with was a bright, effervescent rage.

He snapped his mouth shut.

"No," Kaitlyn said. Her voice was rough, raspy. She cleared her throat and held his gaze as she said more clearly, putting in visible effort to keep herself steady to lift up her chin when her instincts were still begging her to duck it.

"No," she said again. "Not... Not Kaitlyn."

David frowned, confused. "What?"

Then she said, "Kevin."

Still not understanding, David shook his head. "Kaitlyn, what? Who is Kevin?" A thought struck him and he had to curl his hands into fists on top of his thighs to keep from standing. "Is he who did this? Point me in his direction, Kaitlyn, and I swear I--"

"No!" This time, her voice cracked, and there was a desperation in her tone that had David pulling back. Her eyes were wide, every muscle in her body taut. She swallowed thickly around the words he could see her trying to say. Her mouth opened and shut a few times, then she grit her teeth and growled, "No. Me. I'm not Kaitlyn. I am Kevin. Kevin."

Tears, a phenomenon that David had never before witnessed with Kaitlyn and had only ever seen once from her mother, welled suddenly in the girls eyes. Her face was flushed, tinged pink around the hurts. With her hair a chopped mess and her eye visibly beginning to well, the tears added a raw sort of wildness that was so far apart from the rigid control Kaitlyn usually adhered to with zealous enthusiasm that he fleetingly wondered if he was instead talking to a different girl entirely. A long-lost twin.

He shook his head, or at least he went to -- but he aborted the gesture mid-motion as the inkling of understanding tugged at him. He studied her, letting her words turn the lights on one at a time until the pieces finished falling into place.

Then he said, "Kevin." A question, a confirmation.

Jade fire eyes held his own and there was so much weight in that single stare.

After a long, tense moment where David didn't think either of them so much as breathed, the bearer of those eyes gave a single slow nod.

David took in a slow breath and nodded as well. "Alright. Okay. That's... good. Kevin." Slowly, so Kevin didn't think David's motive was violence, David pushed himself to his feet and approached. He lifted one hand and reached out. When the kid didn't flinch away, David rested it on his shoulder.

"Kevin," David said again, and because he was still holding the boy's gaze he saw the moment when Kevin's resolve shattered. The tears he had been battling back broke the dam. His shoulders slumped. His knees trembled. When he stumbled, David was there to catch him and he pulled him easily into his arms. He didn't pretend not to hear the sobs that came next, absorbed by his chest the same way the tears made their new home in the fabric of his shirt.

No, instead he wrapped his arms around him, around Kevin. He rested one hand on the back of his neck and squeezed gently and he said, "Hey, it's alright. I've got you, son. It's alright. I've got you. I'm here."

[alovelyburn]

The last Twitter Stuff Post (probably)

I’m gonna be honest, I find reading about Miura kind of depressing and reading about his plans for the series quite depressing as well, so I decided to go through the whole twitter (well as much as the site will permit), grab the rest of everything of note to me and put it all in this post.

So yes, More Stuff Miura Said

1. The Lost Chapter - did you know it’s usually posted with the pages out of order? True story. [ link ]

1a. Clarification on the canonicity of the lost chapter - he just revealed too much too soon. He thought something that big should wait until the end. [ link ]

2. People like to say Miura said the ending of Berserk would be happy, but I’ve never found a source for that. The closest I’ve seen is this (I’ve seen it before now but you know the link is here so), which is basically just “I’m trying not to make it a tragedy, idk if it’ll be happy but I want to leave at least some sense of hope.” [ link ]

2a. He also had another quote that was basically the same, where he said he didn’t think such a long story should have a grim ending like Guts suddenly dying. Which like,. lmao, there’s that Go Nagai jumping out again except he pushed it back in the box.

3. If the kojion (the twitter user) ever posted this in the original japanese I missed it, which is a shame because i can’t quite parse the final part, but it seems to be saying that the time when everyone is traveling together is about to end. ...I really really miss Miura. [ link ]

4. The faces that line the world during the Eclipse represent the common will of humanity? [ link ]

5. Oh yeah, here’s the famous (to me anyway lmao) line where he talks about the androgynous characters and says usually (but not always) a beautiful androgynous protagonist’s femininity comes out and they fall in love with men. And that he felt he should provide a character like that with both male and female love interests. He’s talking about the protagonist to Duranki btw, but it’s interesting considering the way he drew Sheephead. [ link ]

6. Here’s some information on extent of Mori’s involvement in Berserk - I’ve seen a lot of people fear that Mori was working on 20 year old memories from the first time Miura sat down and plotted the rest of the series out, but their conversations were ongoing. [ link ]

7. Someone asked Miura if Guts and Griffith will fight in the end and he just kind of launched into a discussion of Berserk’s cosmology and what it would take to hurt an astral body. [ link ]

8. About Casca, it’s well known that he said he designed her physically to match his taste at the time, but less discussed that her personality was designed as a compilation of his own complexes and weaknesses. That’s pretty interesting to me because I always thought she was meant to be a strong badass but he was just bad at writing women back then. But it appears she was perhaps just not intended to be as strong and badass as I’d assumed.. [ link ]

9. This is just kind of funny to me - Miura complaining about all the Huge Swords that came after the Dragonslayer but without the kind of consideration as to what kind of body or stance it would take to actually wield something like that. [ link ]

10. Explanation of the nature of behelits - they are souls that fall from the astral plane, and their messed up face represents their fragmentation. ...but he made that up to explain it after he’d already designed them, which he did on a whim. [ link ]

11. kojion kept talking about a second golden age-esque arc that covered the Skull Knight’s history, and when asked where that came from, they explained that it was mentioned in the video interview that showed at the Berserk exhibition. [ link ]

12. This is pretty fascinating - he said that looking at the Eclipse made him want to hit his younger self in the face and ask what was wrong with him, and that he couldn’t do it now because he isn’t depressed anymore. You know, that’s interesting because there’s been a lot of discussion (mostly elsewhere) about the question of whether Miura ended up regretting some of the extremes in the Eclipse, and most particularly Casca’s rape. Because it.... gets played down a LOT and had absolutely no effect on Griffith’s presentation. And I do think part of that is Cultural Differences, because the West is a lot more angry about rape in fiction than Japan tends to be. But it does kind of sound like maybe he wouldn’t have done it again, if he had it to do over. [ link ]

13. I wish I could find it, but there’s a tweet in there somewhere about how he wouldn’t have women in the manga at all if he just did whatever he wanted, but that would be bad for the story. This is kind of tied into something he talked about a lot that I didn’t link to because I’m not trying to catalogue Miura’s life - he just didn’t know any women aside from relatives and his best friend’s wife, because he didn’t date at all or have many friends due to his being a shut-in who worked on manga 24/7. Anyway, I’ll look for the link again later and add it if I can find it.

14. According to Miura, all the relationships and such in the Golden Age really happened to him and his friends (in a not-fantastical way, of course). Which I think explains some of the tonal difference between the GA and the rest of the series. [ link ]

15. I believe this is his speech from when he won the Tezuka Osamu Award. [ link ]

[gallows-into-oblivion]

okay hoh on

stoned az dragon age thoughts

side note,

[Image Description: A screenshot of a Discord message that reads, "I can't tell you how deep of a chuckle I got when I looked at my phone screen at the wall of Dragon Age lore with just "the edible might be hitting under it." Actually killed me. So on brand." End image description.]

that wall of lore was ALSO about Amelia Stannard

like i'm sorry she's actually my favourite character in the series

but. so. if you've been here long enough you know that Amelia was Meredith's (as in Knight-Commander of Kirkwall) (my autocomplete calls me out every time) older sister. i am perhaps a sucker for older & younger sister dynamics. Amelia's death—specifically the fact that she abominated and killed 70 people—was the start of Meredith's decades-long villain era. it shaped her entire relationship with magic. (side note i have an AU where Amelia survives and goes to the Circle)

a slightly niche fan theory (i think, can't remember any canon on this) posits that Meredith views herself as being similar to Andraste. visually, Meredith looks basically the same as all depictions of Andraste that we see.

AND ANDRASTE. HAD A SISTER. WHO DIED. okay a half sister but STILL

i think Meredith might have known that, too, and might have speculated that Halliserre's mysterious, violent death was because of magic (ironic to those of us who subscribe to the "Andraste was a mage" theory)

and maybe Meredith even headcanoned that Halliserre was the older sister, like Amelia

i'm picturing this ten-year-old girl sitting in the barracks in the Gallows and telling herself a story about how strong she'll become, how much she resembles the Maker's chosen prophet, in an attempt to dull the pain of her family's death

i am ON MY BULLSHIT TONIGHT LADLES because if you succumb to my All That Re-Pain-s agenda and bring Hawke's sibling without Anders to the Deep Roads, by the time Hawke and Meredith meet, they're each the only ones left of their families—and now i'm considering making a Hawke who looks similar to Meredith, similar to Andraste, and is a mage. that would fuck with Meredith so much

/clenches fists/ Meredith Stannard is someone who is so shippable—

her sister not so much, apparently. Amelia wouldn't let me ship her with Orsino or Viscount Gamlen or even the Knight-Commander in the AU. maybe it's that she's a lesbian? thought: gender-swap Orsino? oh my god i'm doing a fucking Shakespeare with Dragon Age. being high is one of the experiences of all time. i love my brain

ok to summariz/se (most cursed way to avoid having to make a decision on spelling): Meredith thinks she's Andraste, but with new context. this makes Hawkedith potentially even more angst. Amelia wlw: explore.

[belit0]

i think run by onerepublic suits shisui

YES, AND IT ACTUALLY SENT ME DOWN THE AKATSUKI! SHISUI ROAD 🛐💕

"When I was a young boy living in the village, all I did was run, run, run, run, run. Staring at the lights, they look so pretty," Shisui comments as he looks out over the landscape, unbuttoning his long black tunic just enough to reveal the mesh T-shirt he wears underneath. Red clouds drawn on the fabric shimmer in the sun, giving away a much more adorable image than what it really is, "My momma eventually said: son, you're gonna grow up, you're gonna get old, and all that glitter don't turn to gold, yet until then, just have your fun, boy, run."

Itachi listens attentively, knowing his best friend's whole life story but still letting him talk as if he had never heard the tale. Under his conical hat he takes shelter from the sun, glancing sideways at his cousin's face, appreciating the eye he wears covered.

If there's one thing Shisui enjoys, it's lecturing him as if they're not only 3 years apart, and Itachi won't prick his bubble. He loves to see his charismatic smile, and the dimples it forms on his cheeks.

"When I was a young kid living in the village, all I did was figth. And every single dime that good Lord gave me, I could make it last three, four, five days." In normal times, the Uchiha was always known as a money fighter, coming from the poor side of the family, and Itachi remembers as if it were yesterday how his father would give the poor boy a plate of hot food.

Only when the village recognized his worth did people begin to see him.

"Living it up but living down low, chasing that luck before I get old, and looking back, oh, we had some fun" The younger Uchiha would destroy all those who took advantage of Shisui's kindness, the filthy old village leaders who decided to use him for their own benefit, and listening to him talk about his misfortunes always brings bitter feelings to his throat.

Emotions he knows how to conceal very well.

"What did my father use to tell you back then?" he asks as if he doesn't know the answer, drowning in his own memories, always carrying with him the same anxiety he felt when he found Shisui about to jump into the river.

He had almost arrived too late.

"They would tell you that the sky might fall, they'll say that you might lose it all," The older Uchiha laughs aloud, throwing his head back and holding his stomach. Losing his eye had marked him with permanent instability, a condition only Itachi understands. The village took it upon itself to drain him of all his goodness, leaving a killer of questionable sanity in its wake "so, I run until I hit that wall! Yeah, I learned my lesson, count my blessings, look to the rising sun and run, run, run, run".

Itachi looks at him intently, and can't help but catch his laughter. If you look at him carelessly, Shisui seems to have forgotten everything that happened, perhaps even forgiven, but it's a facade he keeps up only for those who don't really know him. The rest of the Akatsuki don't need to learn his true feelings or intentions.

Shisui joined them for the sole purpose of wiping out the village completely.

"Didn't get everything that I wanted, you already know that, but I got what I need, yeah. Now I see that light in the morning, shining down on me, so, Tachi, take me up high, take me down low, where it all ends nobody knows!" The older Uchiha smiles as if he were twelve years old again and an innocent child knee-deep into issues that don't concern him, being used by the village left and right.

Itachi promised to help him achieve his goal after finishing off the whole family together, receiving Obito's support to flee and plan a concise strategy against Konoha. "Until then let's have some fun, yeah?" he asks tenderly, staring at him and appreciating the man's beauty in the sunlight.

Both of them, together, would avenge that Shisui who almost fell down the river's precipice, avenge the poor boy who was unjustly used because of his talent for nefarious purposes, evil and death.

"Yeah... In the end, I learned my lesson, count my blessings, look to the rising sun, and run." Shisui whispers to himself, his one available eye lost in the horizon and apprehending the sunset. Despite his carefree manner and cheerful personality, Itachi knows what he truly longs for.

They would both destroy all those who tried to harm him.

[tomorrowxtogether]

TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s Yeonjun Is Perfecting the Art of Cool

“Imagining how MOA will be enjoying our performances? That’s the driving force," he shares

There’s a part of TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s ongoing world tour, titled “ACT: SWEET MIRAGE” (snag tickets here!), where the spotlight hits on Yeonjun as he staggers down the catwalk that runs through the center of the arena. The solo is preceded by choreography featuring his bandmates, Soobin, Beomgyu, Taehyun, and Hueningkai; in the moment that follows, though, all eyes are on Yeonjun — and he sells every second of it.Flashback to the morning before the concert, Yeonjun sits for a conversation about this particularly extraordinary time for TOMORROW X TOGETHER. “My everyday life is about practice and preparing for performances,” he says, his voice still low and gravelly from sleep. “Imagining how MOA will be enjoying our performances? That’s the driving force.”

While MOA are undoubtedly the focus these days, Yeonjun has always had a certain fire to him. Always pushing himself to the best he can be, he developed a reputation during his time spent training at the former Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE). In a recent interview with SUGA of BTS, Yeonjun and Taehyun revisited the nickname the former earned in the years he spent perfecting the vocal, dance, and performance skills required to debut: “Big Hit’s Legendary Trainee.”

The instructional period young people undergo in the hopes of becoming K-pop idols is notoriously rigorous, and Yeonjun spent a longer stretch in that world than any of his TXT bandmates. If he were to pass a message to the Yeonjun working so hard to debut, he’d tell his younger self to keep going, because brighter days are coming: “You’re doing a good job. Just hold on a little longer.”

None of the members of TXT have hard-set “roles” within the group, besides Soobin’s responsibilities as the leader. (Often, K-pop groups will designate members rigidly as vocalists, dancers, or visuals, but TXT are fluid on that front). Like his bandmates, Yeonjun has become known as an “all-rounder,” a performer who can sing, rap, and captivate as a performer.

“There are a lot of times where I’ve had to dance by myself, representing the team, which served as a pressure,” he recalls. “But I think those pressures actually helped me grow into who I am right now, so I’m trying to think of it in a very positive way.”

The members of the band have existed in the public eye for over four years now. In that span, Yeonjun’s personal Instagram account has amassed a following of 13.7 million users. The idea of being perceived by this many people is dizzying, and it’s easy to wonder how Yeonjun himself would prefer to be seen by others.

“I think it’s very important to try and be a good person,” he offers. “I also like when people describe me as a cool person — or someone to be proud of.”

Yeonjun, whether chatting casually like this in a hotel room or charming an arena of thousands, does feel like the very definition of cool. In conversation, he’s confident and content with who he is. He loves movies, vlogs, and photography, and mentions that he’s interested in purchasing a film camera.

“I think what sets TOMORROW X TOGETHER apart from other groups is their willingness to challenge the stereotypes and standards that people often associate with the K-pop industry,” HYBE producer Slow Rabbit says of the members. “Whether it’s through genderless outfits or groundbreaking concepts, TOMORROW X TOGETHER fearlessly break down barriers and open up new possibilities for what a K-pop group can be.”

Yeonjun made his New York Fashion Week debut in 2021 walking for Concept Korea’s FW21, a collaboration between three South Korean designers. He has a particular affinity for the world of fashion and, out of the group, is perhaps most known for those genderless outfits Slow Rabbit mentions; when Yeonjun throws on a skirt or cropped shirt, it doesn’t feel performative.

TXT are bringing their distinct energy back to Lollapalooza this summer, and when Yeonjun received the news that TOMORROW X TOGETHER would be headlining, he called his family, friends, and even people he trained with prior to debuting in the group. “I think I actually have a lot of friends that I can share things with,” he says. “It’s such a relief and such a nice, nice thing that I have so many good people around me. I can really open up to them.” He describes his ideal day off as a time spent in the sunshine with his trustworthy inner circle.

At the end of the day, though, it does feel like TXT’s loyal fans are always top of mind for Yeonjun. “I’ve said this so many times, so it’s nothing really special, but we receive so much love from so many MOA,” he says earnestly. “I’m just so thankful, and I want to keep working to provide good music and good performances to a lot of people.”

Yeonjun, for as sharp and professional as he is onstage, is equally present and authentic offstage, too — and at the end of the day, what could be cooler than that?

[jadedrrose]

𝐀 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐧'𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐩𝐞

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐱: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨𝐮𝐭

art/other info is available on my masterlist.

Although he hadn’t known her for very long, Sooga should’ve recognized the signs of Rose’s exhaustion far earlier. She’d seemed so fatigued after the fight against the lizalfos, and he’d felt the way she trembled terribly when he’d held her during their transport. Yet it wasn’t until she was stumbling away from him, beginning to fall to the ground that he’d realized what was happening.

Luckily, he had moved quickly enough to catch her as she fainted. Now, she hung limply in his arms, though she was still breathing. Resting on one knee, Sooga’s eyes darted over Rose’s features, hoping she’d awaken sooner than later. But considering that she’d collapsed from exhaustion combined with draining her energy, Sooga began to doubt that she’d be waking up anytime soon. Hesitantly, he pulled his right hand away from where he was holding her abdomen, moving it towards her face, brushing the shorter face-framing pieces of her hair away from her closed eyes and forehead. 

If he hadn’t been so concerned over her well-being, perhaps he would have taken a moment to study her features. But that wasn’t a priority, nor something he’d consider doing to her when she was in such a vulnerable state. Holding her tightly in both hands again, Sooga pondered over if he should bring her straight to the hideout or not. He could easily carry Rose to her bed, but he didn’t feel comfortable intruding into her home like that. Not to mention, how long would it be before she woke up? It didn’t exactly make sense for him to stand around in the brunette’s small cottage, watching her until she woke up. Deciding it was best to take her to the hideout, Sooga made sure his grip on Rose’s slumbering body was firm, before standing up straight, focusing all of his energy on transporting them to the hideout. It was hard to do so when he was so worried, though.

Reappearing in one of the common rooms, Sooga cursed inwardly. He’d meant to transport them directly to Master Kohga, but apparently his concern over Rose made him lose some focus. 

Multiple footsoldiers and blademasters all jumped in surprise, their heads turned towards the two figures before them. Great, he sighed. Now he had an audience to deal with.

“L-Lord Sooga!? Is that…?” One of the blademasters began to ask.

“It’s- her!” A much higher-pitched voice yelled, presumably a footsoldier, “the warrior!”

“Who?” Another voice came.

“The Great Fairies’ warrior!” 

“Why is he holding her like that?!” A more hushed voice then questioned.

Silently groaning, Sooga could only roll his eyes. Deciding to just say nothing for now, he marched out of the room, heading straight for the napping spot Master Kohga was usually in at this hour- the private dining hall. 

With some more stares and gossip-filled whispers from other clan members the whole way, Sooga finally reached his destination. The footsoldier stationed outside of the door let Sooga inside without hesitation. 

To the younger man’s surprise, Kohga was actually awake for once. 

“Sooga! You’re back!” His master shouted, leaping up from his seat. “You’ve been gone all day! Where have you- ohh, I see what’s going on- WAIT! Why is she unconscious?!”

Disregarding the whiplash Kohga just seemed to go through, Sooga looked between the sleeping woman in his arms and the older man. “I was helping her with bounty work. It seems she’s fainted from exhaustion,” he explained.

“Well that’s not good,” Kohga frowned, “especially since you sound so… worried?”

“How can I not be,” Sooga muttered.

“Well if she only fainted from exhaustion, she’ll be fine! As long as she didn’t hit her head, right?”

“No, I.. caught her.”

“Aw,” Kohga chuckled, “saving her life already. You're such a gentleman, Sooga.”

Suddenly thankful for his mask, Sooga could feel his face burning up. Trying to ignore the comment, he focused on Rose’s wellbeing. “What should I do, though? We don't know how much longer she’ll be asleep for.”

“Hmm,” Kohga crossed his arms, “well… I can try to quickly get a room prepared for her. But if that isn’t fast enough, there’s always your room-“

“A room for her would be good,” Sooga interjected. “She… will be moving here regardless.”

“She wha- you mean…?”

“Rose decided that she would like to join us,” Sooga clarified, looking back at his master, who stared dumbfounded.

“Are… you serious? What did you do?! How’d you finally convince her?” Kohga then erupted, almost shaking with excitement.

“She decided to join on her own terms. I do not know her reasoning behind it, but I don’t believe it is for exploitive reasons. She seemed genuine,” Sooga clarified, gaze moving back down to the woman sleeping in his arms. How odd it was that he could feel his facial expression softening with every look her way.

“Well, if you say so. But I’d still like to know her reasons,” Kohga scratched at his chin, “I’ll let you get to the bottom of that, though. Since you two are buddies now, yeah?”

“I do not believe Rose thinks of me that way. We are more so… allies.”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” Kohga faked a yawn. “You two will warm up to each other eventually…”

With that, Master Kohga got up from his seat, heading out of the dining room to fetch a footsoldier. He hollered over at the first one he saw, demanding that they quickly prepare a private room for Rose. Sooga quietly followed, debating whether or not he should stay with her until she woke up.

When the room was finally ready, Sooga was a bit relieved to find it was only across the hallway from his own quarters. Dipping inside the dimly-lit room, he took a few steps over to the bed and gently laid Rose in it, ensuring she was in a comfortable position. As he took a few steps back, Sooga felt himself letting out a heavy sigh. Despite her not being heavy, he hadn’t noticed the ache in his arms until now. It wasn’t too terrible, though; he’d carried Kohga over his shoulder many times and, compared to that, holding Rose was far more comfortable. It was slightly more difficult when the person was unconscious, he supposed.

Deciding that he’d have more peace of mind if he kept an eye on Rose, Sooga chose to stay with her. He took a seat in the chair at the wooden desk, figuring he’d call for Master Kohga as soon as the brunette awoke. Although… he didn’t want to alarm her. But even then, she’d more than likely be surprised upon waking up somewhere other than her own bed. Shaking his head, Sooga willed himself to quit worrying and simply relax. 

But after an hour or so had passed, and Rose still had not woken up, Sooga found that he was growing more tired by the minute. He’d hardly slept the previous night, and was back by Riverside Stable fairly early in the morning. Resting his chin on his knuckles, Sooga began nodding off, before thinking that he may as well rest if Rose wouldn’t be waking up anytime soon. And with that thought, he fell into a light slumber.

With a slight headache, Rose stirred from her sleep. She kept her eyes tightly shut, hoping the vague pounding in her head would go away. With a couple minutes of her not moving, eyes still shut, it slowly faded off, but nonetheless, her head still hurt. Figuring that it probably wouldn’t get any better, she finally opened her eyes, confused by the darkness she was now surrounded by. Sitting up, she gazed around the room, finding that it was definitely not her cottage, or anywhere she’d ever been before. Spotting a flickering candle that seemed on the verge of going out, she then realized that she was not alone in the room. 

With the dim light of the candle, she was able to make out the figure of Sooga slumped over in a chair about seven feet away from her. Confused, Rose tried to recall what the last thing she could remember was. Sooga was taking her home after they’d finished things up at Riverside Stable. She could recall being terribly exhausted, but… not much else.

Hoarsely, she called out to him. “…Sooga?”

Though her voice was relatively quiet, she’d still managed to wake him. His head moved a bit, before he sat up, his mask raising to meet her eyes. 

“Rose? You- you’ve awoken,” he grumbled, sounding tired. 

“Where am I?” She asked, looking at him with a hint of worry. 

Sooga let out a nearly inaudible yawn, before standing up, suddenly seeming so much bigger. It was slightly off-putting, but Rose had a feeling he wouldn’t harm her. 

“You’re at the hideout. You fainted when we got to your cottage and I… decided to bring you here.”

“Oh,” she sighed, squinting from the lighting change as Sooga relit the oil lanterns in the room. When her eyes adjusted and she was able to fully see him, she watched as he approached the side of the bed she sat on. “You could’ve just put me in my own bed,” she tried joking.

“I didn’t want to intrude on your home,” he replied, before changing the subject. “I will take you to Master Kohga, if you’re feeling well enough.”

“Um,” Rose thought about it. Her headache was dissipating by the moment, and other than some stiffness in her arms, she felt fine. Although now she’d be meeting the Master Kohga? That thought gave her a slight pause. “…yeah, I think I’m alright.” 

“Very well,” Sooga nodded, holding a hand out to her.

Hesitantly, Rose placed her hand in his palm. Studying their touching hands for a moment, she was a bit in awe at how much larger his was compared to her own. How tall was this man, anyway? Thinking back, she realized she only reached about the height of his lower to mid chest area. Shuddering at the thought of how easily he could still strike her down if he so wished, Rose allowed Sooga to help her up. 

But when her eyes met his mask as she now stood next to him, his other hand gently holding her upper arm as she stabilized herself, any thought of him possibly harming her vanished. Somehow, deep down, Rose knew he wouldn’t do anything to hurt her. If anything, she felt much safer with him around. Deciding that she fully trusted him from now on, she smiled, giving him a nod.

Sooga hung back for a second, probably making sure she wouldn’t collapse again. He let go of her, leading her over to the door and slid it open. Rose followed him outside, into a much more well lit, though still relatively dim, hallway.

“To tell you the truth, I have no idea what time it is,” Sooga mumbled. “We will check Master Kohga’s quarters first. If he isn’t there, then he’s most likely in the dining hall.”

Nodding, Rose followed slightly behind Sooga. Thankfully, nobody had been around when they’d emerged from the room. If there had been anyone… she feared what they may have thought. The last thing she wanted was to be the center of gossip and not taken seriously when all she wanted more than ever was to prove herself to the clan. 

The hallway that they began to walk through was fairly long, yet there were few doors within it. Only two, to be exact. Rose began to wander, how was the hideout laid out, anyway?

“Sooga, can I ask, um… is this hallway specifically for anything?”

He gave her a nod, “this hallway consists of quarters designated for only elite soldiers. Which, at the moment, only includes myself and now you.”

“M-me?” Rose stuttered out, thinking she’d somehow misheard him. There was absolutely no way she was already an ‘elite soldier’ when she’d barely even joined the clan. She hadn’t even met Kohga yet! 

“Indeed,” Sooga confirmed. “You’ve managed to take down multiple of the blademasters that I personally trained. It matters not that you’re new to the clan. Rose, you…” he turned to look at her, walking a bit slower than before. “You are an exceptional warrior.” 

She could feel a heat rising to her face, not used to all this praise. Tearing her eyes away from Sooga’s gaze, Rose looked at her boots now. “That’s… um, thank you,” she mumbled. 

“I also, err,” Sooga cleared his throat, “I did not feel comfortable assigning you to a random room that you’d be sharing with multiple other clan members.”

Curious, Rose raised an eyebrow and looked back to Sooga. “Oh? Why’s that?”

“Half of the footsoldiers are petrified of you, and the others…”

From what Rose had seen, Sooga wasn’t usually one to not finish his sentences. What was making him hesitate? 

“What of them?” She pressed.

“They… look at you differently.”

��Because I’m not Yiga?”

“No,” Sooga shook his head, deep voice growing quieter. “I’ll put it this way; most of our footsoldiers are young men. I believe you could imagine how most young men feel about pretty women they encounter.”

Blue eyes going wide, Rose felt her face burning more intensely than it had a couple seconds ago. “O-oh,” she reeled. Perhaps she was just embarrassed that the clansmen apparently thought of her that way, but, another thing clouded her mind.

Was… Sooga implying that he thinks I’m pretty? 

Shaking her head, a bit too furiously perhaps, Rose pleaded with herself to not take that thought any further. She hated receiving those types of comments from men, yet somehow she wasn’t angry when it came from him. Still, she urged herself to forget the thought.

“Forgive me,” Sooga then apologized, his head hanging a bit lower now, “I did not mean to frighten you.”

“N-no,” she blurted out, “I just… wasn’t expecting that.”

It seemed Sooga didn’t know how to respond. A silence fell over the two, and the tall man began to quicken his pace, now walking slightly ahead of Rose rather than next to her. 

After a few terribly awkward and quiet moments of them walking, they finally reached some sort of corridor. At the end of it were wooden sliding doors with the inverted eye crest painted on in red. And standing to the side was a footsoldier, who seemed about ready to collapse and sleep on the dirt floor. 

They stumbled awake as Rose and Sooga approached, giving a wobbly bow to their superior. 

“Lord Sooga…?” They yawned, “what are you doing here at such an hour… and-“

The soldier froze up at the sight of Rose.

“Why is… she here?”

“Rose has joined the clan,” Sooga explained. “What hour is it, soldier?”

“Hmm,” they grumbled, “definitely past midnight. If I had to guess, probably… around three?”

Pursuing her lips and widening her eyes in surprise, Rose turned to look at Sooga, her mouth then opening, “I didn’t realize it was so late, I shouldn’t have woken you. I’m so sorry-“

“Do not apologize,” Sooga turned to her, gently placing a hand on her shoulder. “I should not have fallen asleep. We’ll talk to Master Kohga in the morning.”

Rose nodded, shuddering from the warm feeling that spread on her shoulder. Her body had been so cold from being within the hideout, that the warmth of Sooga’s touch had surprised her. Yet she… welcomed it, wanting to lean into it. Being in the chilly caves of the Gerudo Highlands might be too much for her, after all. 

The footsoldier then coughed awkwardly, and she remembered that they’d been there, too. Looking down to her feet again, Rose felt she couldn’t meet anyone’s eyes- or rather, mask, from embarrassment. 

Letting go of Rose, Sooga looked down at the soldier. “It may be in your interest to take an energy elixir, soldier. Now… we will be going.”

The footsoldier bowed again, giving a weak salute to Sooga. “Yeah… I think I’ll do that,” they yawned, again.

As Sooga began to lead Rose away, she followed without hesitation. Although… where were they going, if Master Kohga wasn’t awake and therefore they couldn’t meet? 

“Sooga? Where are we headed now?”

“Since we’re both awake, I’ve decided I’ll go ahead and give you a tour of the hideout,” he replied. 

“Oh,” she hummed, a slight smile breaking out on her lips. “Where will we be starting?”

“At the main entrance. It isn’t too far from here, actually.”

—

Stepping out from behind a heavy cloth of some sort and into a round room, Rose gazed around, spotting what, she assumed, was the entrance. It had giant statues around the sides, resembling people holding swords. 

“The hideout was built by the Gerudo many ages ago,” Sooga began explaining. “It was modified to be our home. And this room specifically is the entrance, where anybody who breaks in will be stalled.”

Rose looked up and down the large banners that covered parts of the walls between the statues. “How does that work?” She wondered, not quite understanding.

“There are only three doorways within this room. One of which we just came from,” he then gestured over to two specific banners, “one is a more direct route to the living quarters, and the last one,” he continued, “leads to supply rooms.”

Rose followed along where his hand guided her eyes, taking note of every word he said. One could get so easily lost in this place, and she didn’t want to embarrass herself by doing so.

“They are behind the banners, as you saw when we came here.”

Nodding, the brunette looked over to the second banner Sooga had pointed at. “So that’s the living quarters one?”

“It is,” he confirmed, beginning to walk over to it. “We’ll continue through it.”

“Wait,” Rose’s brows furrowed in confusion, “where’s the entrance, like, the main one?”

“Ah,” Sooga turned around, pointing to a suspiciously blank wall. “It is through there. The only way to open it is by using the ancient arts.”

Rose hummed, figuring she’d learn to do that sooner or later. 

They continued over to the doorway behind the banner, and walked through a short hallway, then up some stairs.

As Sooga walked ahead of her, he slowed his walking pace, and began carefully stepping, almost like he was aiming to set his feet in very specific spots. Looking down at the ground beneath them, Rose’s eyes went wide as she noticed they were walking over holes, which, upon further inspection, had spikes inside of them. The realization tripped her up, and she began rushing to get over them, afraid they may spring up at her at any second.

Closing her eyes as she frantically stepped over the spikes, Rose’s footing tripped up, and to her horror, she began stumbling forward. Luckily for her, Sooga took quick notice and caught her. 

Face burning in embarrassment, Rose took in a deep breath as Sooga’s hands held onto her sides firmly. “The traps are disabled, Rose. There’s no need to rush,” he then said, his tone… different. It was like he was scolding her, but in a friendly way? How odd.

“Of course they are,” she grumbled, regaining her balance. 

“Forgive me,” Sooga then bowed his head, “I should have informed you.”

“No, it’s…” she awkwardly paused, “it makes sense that they’re deactivated. I think I’m just… nervous.”

Sooga stared down at her, inquisitively. 

“You know, from being in a new place…”

“I understand,” he then said. “Though given that this is your new home, you’ll get used to things quickly.”

“You’re right,” she agreed. “Let’s… keep moving.”

After showing Rose around the entire hideout, Sooga brought them back to the hallway where their quarters were. He wondered how close to dawn it was now, given that they’d been walking around for what felt like a couple of hours. 

Standing in front of her door, Rose looked up to him and smiled. “Thank you for showing me around,” she gave a slight bow. “I really appreciate it, Sooga.”

Feeling a shudder go through his spine at the sound of his name, Sooga smiled beneath his mask. “Of course. If you ever need anything, please let me know.”

“Oh,” she hummed. “Um, when could we get my things? I… have no other clothes or…”

Wanting to run his palm over his face, Sooga cursed inwardly. He’d completely forgotten. “We could go now, if you aren’t too tired.”

Rose shrugged, “I mean, I slept like what, twelve hours?”

“I assume that means you have enough energy to go,” he asked.

Rose seemed to find his response funny, as she let out a giggle. “Yeah. Can you… um, transport us?”

Sooga nodded, approaching her to have her hold onto him. “Again, may I?”

Rose looked up to his mask, making eye contact unbeknownst to her. Her eyes seemed to flicker with hesitation, her lips parting slightly. “Y-yeah.” 

Wrapping one arm around her smaller frame, Sooga ensured she was held tightly against him. Contrary to last time, Rose slowly brought her hand up to hold onto one of the belts that ran across his chest. She’d mentioned being nervous due to being in a new environment, but was that really it? Her actions seemed to show that there was more to it. 

Dismissing the thought, Sooga formed the correct sign with his hand and in an instant, they were outside of her cottage once again, with the moon still high in the sky. There were probably at least two more hours until sunrise, then.

Letting go of Rose, he watched as she still stumbled away. 

“Do not faint this time,” he warned, his tone indicating that he was joking. Or so he hoped.

Rose laughed, to his relief. “Can’t make any promises!” She then unlocked the door to her cottage and stepped inside.

Walking up to the door but not following her in, Sooga chose to wait. Again, he didn’t want to intrude.

“You can come in, you know,” she called from inside.

Giving a nod, he dipped beneath the door’s frame, stepping into Rose’s cottage. It could only be described as… humble. It wasn’t very big at all. There was a small kitchen with many fruits and vegetables in woven baskets, a tiny circular table with one chair, and beside that, was a door. Presumably a bathroom. Around the corner from there was her bed and dresser, where she stood, gathering items into a bag. 

“Is there anything you’d like me to do?” Sooga then asked.

“Oh, umm,” Rose looked around. “Could you take everything off of my bed and fold it all together?” 

“Of course,” he stepped around her, though a bit awkwardly, as his tall frame barely fit within the cottage. The ceiling was probably only a foot taller than he was. 

Overlooking the bedding, he found that all of it had been dyed pink. Removing his gloves so as to not dirty any of it, Sooga began to pull everything off and fold it all. “You favor the color pink, then?” He asked, voice quiet.

Rose smiled, turning to look at him. “Yeah. I mean, I thought it was obvious by my outfit and weapons, but…”

Sooga chuckled. “I had assumed you were simply keeping things matching.”

He finished up his task, before stacking all of the folded bedding together and lifting it up. Meanwhile Rose finished putting her belongings into her regular leather bag as well as some packs, and then let Sooga know they were done. 

“This will be slightly more difficult,” he said, holding onto her while balancing all of the items in his left hand. “But I’ll manage.”

Without using the hand sign, he’d have to really focus his energy in order to transport both of them. Though with his trained mind, it wasn’t very hard at all. 

Reappearing at the hideout, they now found themselves in the hallway that contained their quarters. A much better result than when he’d brought them to the occupied area earlier.

After putting everything in her room and getting Rose herself settled in, Sooga finally bid her farewell, returning to his own room for the remainder of the night.

Awakening in her new bedroom, Rose hoped that her little nap had only been exactly that- a nap. Sleeping all day again would ruin her sleep schedule for sure, and she couldn’t allow that to happen when she was now an “elite soldier”, as Sooga had implied. 

Rising from the bed that was a bit larger than the one in her cottage, Rose decided that a bath was needed. She lit the lanterns within her room and removed her nightgown and undergarments, leaving them folded on her bed. 

Stepping into the bathroom that she had yet to use, Rose found that it was pretty nice. Along with the bath was what seemed to be like the showers they had in the nicer Hylian towns. Based on how it looked, Rose was able to determine that it was a natural waterfall that had been incorporated into a shower. Deciding to bathe that way instead, she ran her hand underneath the water, glad to find that it was warm. With that, she stepped in. Letting out a heavy sigh of relief, she couldn’t help the small smile that formed on her lips. The warm, fresh water running over her body was relaxing, yet incredibly refreshing. It was much better compared to the simple baths she took back at her cottage. 

After cleaning her hair and scrubbing herself with a floral-scented soap, Rose closed her eyes, allowing herself to peacefully exist. She could hear nothing but the sound of the water flowing, and felt nothing but it. Finally, she’d gotten into a meditative state for the first time in days.

Though it didn’t last long. With the chaos that had been the last three days now over, she finally had time to really just think. 

So her original plan wasn’t needed after all. Which, honestly, she was glad for. It could’ve taken much longer, especially considering she would have had to find a Yiga soldier scared of her enough to take her to the hideout without fighting back. And breaking in…? Even if she’d been able to come out victorious in past battles against the clan members, who’s to say she would’ve had the same success when invading their home, where all of them lived? It was very unlikely. 

And Sooga… he was so trusting of her, despite the fact that she’d resisted against him before. She didn’t know him well enough yet, but it seemed as though he had good judgment in people. Perhaps he was simply good at seeing through others’ energies. 

And after all… she trusted him. Rose always wanted to see the good in others, but the Hylian soldiers had given her an incredibly jaded view on other Hyruleans. So if she felt safe with Sooga, she was absolutely certain that he was a good man. 

Then, another thought came to mind. Today was the day she’d be formally meeting Master Kohga. Eyes widening, Rose realized that this was a serious ordeal. She’d probably need to wear her complete armor set, in order to look as nice as possible. And what would he be like? The fearsome leader of a clan of assassins was sure to be somebody intimidating. Sighing, she hoped that Sooga could give some guidance on how to act around their leader.

Finishing up morning training with a group of blademasters, Sooga watched as the five men left the training room they’d been in, having been working on ancient arts techniques. They were new blademasters, having just completed the schooling on it, much like he had years ago. So naturally, they still needed plenty of training. 

With that out of the way, though, he figured now was as good of a time as ever to finally take Rose to meet Master Kohga. 

Sooga left the training room and began his walk over to the section of the hideout where his and Rose’s rooms were. As he passed Master Kohga’s quarters, though, he figured it would be a good idea to let his leader know what was going on. 

The footsoldier stationed outside, but not the one from the previous night, let him inside without question. And with a glance through the door, Sooga was relieved to find his master awake, though unsurprised to see him snacking on bananas.

“Sooga!” The older man called, tossing away a banana peel. “Come for a snack?”

“I have not,” he replied. “I’ve come to inform you that Rose will be meeting with you. I’m on my way to bring her here now.”

“Finally!” Kohga shouted, fists shaking in the air. “I can’t tell you how eager I am to see her; see what those magical fairy powers are really like close up!”

“…yes,” Sooga then cleared his throat. “Master Kohga, I must ask that you… stay calm.”

“Huh? Why would I do that when I’m meant to be greeting my newest-best-lackey?”

Sooga sighed. “I don’t want her to be frightened. She admitted to being nervous last night, and I-“

“Last night?” Kohga echoed, scratching his chin with a smirk. “I thought you put her up in that room and left her alone. Wanna share what you were really doing afterwards, eh?”

The comment should’ve had Sooga rolling his eyes, but instead, he found his face heating up. “I gave her a tour of the hideout and then helped her retrieve her items. Nothing more.”

“Ah, I see,” Kohga shrugged, “not like I’d expect anything like that coming from you anyway.”

“What is that meant to imply?” Sooga questioned. 

“Well I just think you’re more of the courting type.”

“C-courting?” Sooga said under his breath, confused for a second. But then it clicked. “-Never mind. I’m leaving to escort Rose.”

“Escort her, eh?!” Kohga hollered. “Come on, you walked right into that one!”

But Sooga didn’t want to hear another word of it. Turning on his heel, he left the room with haste. 

After walking down a few hallways, Sooga was finally at his destination. Facing the door opposite his own, he calmly knocked his fist against it. “Rose,” he called, waiting for her to answer.

But there wasn’t a reply. Odd.

Knocking again, Sooga repeated her name, slightly louder this time, and waited again. Still, there was silence on Rose’s end. 

She hadn’t left, had she? That or, perhaps she was sleeping again? Feeling rather shameful, Sooga slowly slid the door open, dipping only his head into the room. 

All of the lanterns had been lit, indicating that she was indeed awake. She’d also completely redecorated. Stepping into the room, looking around at all the new decorations, Sooga called out to her again. “Rose? We must meet with-“ 

His eyes then landed on her bed, which was now very cozy-looking and covered with shades of blush. And at the foot of her bed was a pink nightgown and a pair of…

Sooga felt his whole body burn with more shame. Stepping into her room uninvited was one thing, but looking at her under clothes? Disgraceful.

And to his complete horror, just as he was about to turn and flee, the door to the bathroom slid open. Peeking her upper half out, Rose’s blue eyes widened. “O-oh. I… thought I heard my name,” she stuttered, her grip on the towel wrapped around her visibly tightening as she retreated, so that only her head showed now. “U-um,” she awkwardly paused, averting her eyes. “What did you need, Sooga?”

“Forgive me,” he gave a slight bow, completely moving to face away from her. “I wanted to inform you that Master Kohga was awaiting your presence, but did not realize you were bathing.”

“He’s waiting?!” She then shouted, fully pushing the bathroom door open, making Sooga wish he could just disappear. And to think he had to fight the urge to look her way. Unforgivable.

“What do I wear!? Like, something nice, or…?”

“Just… wear the kimono you wear in combat. I’ll… I will be waiting outside.” He muttered, quickly leaving the room and sliding the door closed behind himself. 

Letting out a shaky sigh, Sooga’s head hung low as he felt terrible about the whole encounter. Rose, aside from her panic over what to wear, had seemed completely unfazed after he’d mentioned the plan to meet with Kohga. At the very least, she hadn’t thrown her towel off as she rushed. But even if nothing that bad had occurred, he didn’t think he’d be able to look her in the eye for a bit. But what he did know for certain was that if Master Kohga found out about the incident, he’d never hear the end of it. 

And while he tried to forget the more… intimate features that had nearly been on display, something stuck out in his mind. Those tattoos she had… they’d wrapped all the way around her right arm and left leg. Pondering over it, he then realized… They weren’t tattoos, but markings.

Interesting.

Tying the dark pink ribbon around her obi, securing it in place, Rose let out a huff. Not only was she embarrassed, but Sooga seemed completely mortified over the situation. He clearly was trying to be respectful, but she’d stupidly gotten so lost in her own mind that she somehow didn’t hear him calling for her. Sliding the armor pieces in place over her forearms, Rose then sat on the foot of her bed to pull her boots on. Resting one hand beside her as she reached down for her shoes, she then realized what she’d left sitting out for Sooga to see. Cursing audibly, Rose yanked her boots on with the armor that went over them, and stood up.

Finally, she was ready. Sliding the wooden door open, Rose found Sooga facing away from her, one arm folded across his chest while the other rested on it, his hand on his upper mask. He must feel really bad. Damnit.

“I’m, uh… I’m ready,” she timidly said, folding her hands in front of herself. 

Sooga’s arms relaxed, resting by his sides. “Very well.”

He led the way, out of their hallway and down the same path they had taken the previous evening. Glancing around, Rose ensured nobody was nearby to overhear anything.

“Sooga?”

He made a low hum noise to acknowledge that he’d heard her.

“I… I’m really sorry, um… I didn’t mean to… embarrass or, uh, shock you,” she apologized, feeling a shameful burn creep up her neck and face.

Sooga took a second to reply, but to her relief, he finally did. “Do not worry yourself over it, Rose. I shouldn’t have intruded.”

“No, uh, it’s a good thing you did, actually,” she replied, “I was really lost in thought and probably would’ve lost track of time.”

“I see,” he nodded. “Just… don’t mention it around Master Kohga.”

“Oh? Why?” Rose was curious now. After all, she really knew nothing about her new leader.

“Master Kohga, despite his greatness,” Sooga began to say, before pausing. “He… will take any chance to joke about anything.”

“Oh,” Rose hummed. “Does he tease you a lot?”

“Tease me?” the blademaster choked.

Rose giggled. “Sorry. But I mean, does he? I wanna know what he’s like.”

“You will simply have to find out for yourself, I’m afraid,” Sooga sighed.

—

Finally at the door to Master Kohga’s quarters, Rose and Sooga were allowed in this time. She should’ve been honored, really, as Sooga had mentioned that most new recruits didn’t even meet Master Kohga “officially”. And yet she felt so afraid.

Although, perhaps her nervousness wasn’t over meeting the leader of the clan. Instead, she knew her apprehension was due to the fact that it was here she’d be revealing her secret. 

She just hoped neither of the men would judge her.

“You’re finally back! I’ve been waiting forever, Sooga- well well well,” a rather obnoxious voice said, and as they fully stepped into the room, Rose was greeted by someone who could be none other than Master Kohga.

“So we finally meet, Rose,” he said, and by his tone, she somehow knew that he was smirking underneath his mask. Not only that, but she found it odd that he’d nearly switched up his whole voice upon seeing her.

She didn’t know what to do or say. Her lips parted to speak, but nothing came out. So, Rose just opted to bow. 

“Look! She’s even got great manners,” the man chuckled, looking over to Sooga. “You two will be a perfect pair. So alike and whatnot,” he then crossed his arms.

“Well. In case it wasn’t obvious enough, I am the one and only; Master Kohga!” He struck a pose for a split second, before returning to the previous one. 

Rose glanced at Sooga, looking for some sort of guidance. But he did nothing. “Um… hello, Master Kohga, I’m Rose, but I suppose you already knew that,” she introduced herself, bowing again.

“Yep! The mysterious Rose, blessed with the magic of the Great Fairies. Speaking of which, how does that even work?”

Taken slightly aback, Rose’s eyes widened. “Oh, um… they just… gave it to me?”

“Well duh. So what’d they do? Make you pay a million rupees and then you woke up with weird powers?”

“N-no, nothing like that,” she shook her head, laughing a little. “The four sisters combined their powers and a ball of light was just… sent into me? I know it sounds… strange, but that’s what happened,” she clarified.

“Huh. And you didn’t have to pay?” Kohga questioned.

“Not necessarily,” Rose answered. “I bring them rupees as gifts occasionally, but it’s never anything close to a million. And it’s- it’s actually a way to repay them for raising and sheltering me.”

The older man then shrugged. “I just heard they loved money or whatever. Welp! Moving on. What made you want to join the clan?”

The question made Rose feel as if time around her had stopped, and all she could hear was the sound of her own, uneven breaths and pounding heartbeat. 

“Well… um,” she struggled to put together a sentence. “My… my parents were killed by Hylian soldiers when I was a child,” she managed to say, voice much more mellow. 

Sooga seemed to be interested in what she was saying, as he tensed up and looked her way, intently. Right. I never told him. Kohga, on the other hand, leaned forward, awaiting the rest of her story.

“They were going to kill me, too,” she bit her lip, afraid of crying. “But I escaped. Then I… found out they killed my aunt, too, and I…” 

“You do not need to continue if it’s too difficult, Rose,” Sooga then interjected. “I understand.”

“No,” she shook her head, blinking away the tears, feeling that hatred she’d felt many times before bubbling back up. Not necessarily towards Sooga, but toward her enemies: the royals and their pathetic army. “It’s fine, I can… I can finish.

“They slaughtered my family just for existing. And I will do anything in my power to take down those damned soldiers and the royal family. I have to avenge them.”

“So… mutual enemy, then?” Kohga crossed his arms again. “Well, it doesn't matter to me, as long as you’re on our side.”

“I am,” She then replied. “I’ll do whatever it takes to prove it, too.”

Kohga didn’t move, but Rose got the feeling he was looking her up and down, making humming noises as he was thinking. “Say… you got tattoos,” he observed. “Whaddya say to getting the inverted eye tattooed as a sign of your allegiance, huh?”

Glancing over her right arm, Rose stammered, “those aren’t- fine. I… I can do that.” 

Master Kohga nodded, giving her a look of approval through the mask. “Excellent! I’ll set you up with, well, the only person who does tattoos around here…”

Sooga then took a step forward, his arms crossed. “I have a request as well, Rose. If you want to prove your loyalty, I must ask that you finally reveal this secret of yours.”

Shakily sighing, Rose nodded. It was only fair, after all. Taking in a deep breath, she forced up the courage to finally say:

“I… I’m Sheikah.”

[missingnoge]

Meet the new characters of Pain 'n Dave!

It is time.

Alright, so I know that there is a lot going on in this picture with all of these characters but today we'll only be focusing on those new lot at the bottom since all of the characters before them will have a character showcase in the future, being pre-existing characters.

Okay, got all that? Let's meet some of these new characters!!

[Fun note for any of you newcomers: About 80% of these characters that you see in the portraits above you don't actually need to know about. This is all just fun worldbuilding that I like to do]

The Disciples of the Labyrinth Lord (Wontas, Rey'avh, Horoev)

The Maze of Madness, or the Labyrinth Lord's Realm, was a realm once known to the demons. However, relations fell through and now the realm sits quietly, scheming its revenge against the demons who had betrayed them. The Disciples of the Labyrinth Lord carry out these machinations.

Wontas is the most magically-attuned but also the most frail. He's the only one of the trio who can speak, having learned to from listening to the screams of their prisoners. He sounds like a synthesizer being thrown down a flight of stairs.

Rey'avh is the most intelligent of the three, perhaps even the entire universe. He has concocted the most if not all of their operations such as the subjugation of the Vernak Peninsula.

Horoev is nothing more than a beast. The others wondered how he even got to their position, believing it to be a joke from their Lord. However, everything about Horoev is genuine. He is a monster; a ravenous animal who is motivated by nothing but food. Rey'avh has since found use for him by using him as... motivation for their prisoners.

Fun Fact: This is the first time I've ever colored the Disciples. For the longest time, they were just sketches since I didn't really know what color I wanted them to be and also they were kind of low priority since they won't really appear in any comics - they were made for a game in the first place. I also just sketched them out on a whiteboard first before they ever showed up digitally while I was on campus since I was bored.

The Maggots

A lot happens down in the Under-Cities of the Maggots. If only things were perfect for such a tide of worms...

Akstrom Big-Hat is a Bishop with a big hat and big ideas. She has been known to be a thorn on the other Bishops' sides, constantly challenging their ideas simply by having a big hat. It's the only reason she has and the only one she ever needs. The Arch Bishop would really like to strangle her some day but she has a big hat.

Irontooth is a chef who resides in the food-filled Under-City, Ma'fu. He's known throughout the tunnels for being one of the best chefs despite his attitude but he's also known for his remarkable lifespan, with some saying he has been blessed by their god, Yersinias. Irontooth is actually quite tired of this whole "theocracy" crap happening though. He lost his tail in a fight.

Big Head was once a regular Maggot. He was digging out a cave for his Under-City when a big rock hit him in the head. His head hurt but the other Maggots thought he suddenly became smarter. Now word spreads of a Maggot of grand intellect and others visit Big Head for his wisdom. The Arch Bishop, Kro'Gax, has also become wary of such rumors and wishes to stamp out this heretic creating a new group. Big Head has no idea what is happening.

Fun Fact: Irontooth was originally just a generic Maggot cook I drew for a sketch and then decided to turn into a regular character. Not unlike what happened with Beth Harbinger!

More of Pain's Family

The Marauder Kin may be smaller in numbers than they were back in the day, but they're still alive and kicking. They enjoy more favor from the more-dominant Bog Demons (who were once their prey) but it's better than fighting a losing war against the Vundar Demons

Murmur is Pain's aunt. She spent a lot of time with Pain when he was younger and essentially acted as a mentor if not an additional parent figure to him. Pain basically got his sense of humor from her! Pain respects her dearly and always enjoys when she does reappear in his life. These days, Murmur just roams around Molagar looking for new and interesting things but will always come back to her family.

Bosch is one of Pain's cousins. He is an avid filmmaker, having made about twenty films and is currently working on his twenty-first one. He's still currently writing it. I think he wants to dabble in detective fiction now. Anyways, Bosch can be quite particular about his methods which can border on perfectionism at times. He loves his camera and is constantly seen maintaining whenever he can. For good reason too, the amount of times film has come back from it completely black is enough to drive any demon crazy. He still loves it regardless

Pieter is Bosch's older brother. He's not really big into filmmaking as his brother - he really only likes to watch movies occasionally (His favorite are action films, which Bosch doesn't really like). Despite that, Pieter tries to help his little brother as much as he can, finding Bosch's passion for filmmaking to be infectious. He acts as a stagehand for many of Bosch's films, holding equipment like microphones or lights. He also has to mediate tension between Bosch and his actors when Bosch gets frustrated during filming.

Fun Fact: Murmur's name comes from the 54th demon listed in the "Lesser Key of Solomon," Count/Duke Murmur. Also, Bosch and Pieter were inspired by "Home Movies". Bosch and Pieter are also Murmur's sons.

Rise of the Rackoleps

Deep in the Northeast of Hell, a forest of mushrooms called the Largos Frontier grows. The fungi has been called many things, such as "Devil's Bane" or "Magic Eater" but it is most known as the Rackoleps. The dangerous properties of the Rackoleps has moved the Citadel to take action against the rapidly-spreading fungus, establishing a perimeter around the forest wherein Inhibitor units spray various poisons, flames, magic, and other would-be fungal killers. At first, it worked, but the Citadel noted an ever-increasing resistance to their efforts as the Rackoleps becomes more and more resistant towards their attempts.

However, unbeknownst to the general public, the Rackoleps has finally reached a critical point of its evolution: sentience. After having assimilated enough outside life, the mushroom can finally walk; talk. Think.

Mycelia, the Spore Queen is the firstborn of these so-called Rackoleps Demons. She towers over all life so that She may watch over Her kin; Her children. Her ultimate wish is to unify the Chaos Realm under the mushroom cap of the Rackoleps.

Cybin was one of the first Rackoleps people to have been created by the Queen. However, he would be the first to step outside of their fungal forest, for his purpose is to understand the world beyond. As he went on his observations, the voices of his family back home became quieter until he had traveled so far that all he heard was silence. Cybin still continues his mission however it is a lonely one. He wanders Molagar alone, depressed. Dying. He wonders how his family is doing back home.

Fun Fact: The Spore Queen was probably the hardest I thought when it came to coming up with a character design; a lot of intention was put into Her design with the idea of making Her look beautiful yet alien. Gentle yet intimidating.

Alright, I think that's pretty much everything when it comes to the "new characters". I put it in quotes because, for me, they're not actually that new. Relatively with the others? Yes, certainly, and they're definitely new to you, the reader since I didn't really have a chance, or will get the chance to, introduce them to you through the comics any time soon.

Hope you enjoyed this massive lore dump. That's the thing I like about this site. I can write about just whatever I damn please! Thanks, tumblr!! I'll see you all next time with the next character introduction of the Harbinger sisters! Now those are characters you should actually know about!

[kimothyroll]

Day 2

Day Total: +3 theoretical & -1 Practical

-1 on crafting exam outcome

Nine of Cups

As I wake up on my second day I spend some time lying in bed contemplating before getting up. It's still quiet, I don't do well with quiet, my brain always tends to go off on all sorts of spirals, though, to be fair, not all of these are negative. I know that we're supposed to be doing a lot more combat over the next few days, so today I was considering previous duels. Tranmere is a pretty small community but I had/have a small group of friends who get my quirks and accept them- I'm really lucky. I laugh to myself as I remember the summers me and my friends spend having "gang wars" with the kids from the next village over. We thought we were so tough. Really though it was all just a bit of fun with a bunch of bored kids making their own entertainment. I wonder whether those experience led to my overwhelm yesterday. We all seemed to something we were good at but there were never any arguments of who's skills were more superior. It was strange to be with a group of people so set in their opinion. I guess my younger days of work with my friends to "beat" the rival gang taught me the value in recognising your own strengths and weaknesses and working as a team to utilise these.

+1 Practical

Queen of Swords

Going into the first lesson of the day, we start to build on the discussion around combat and begin to explore the philosophy. We are asked to consider our own beliefs and how we feel about using magic for battle.

For me, it's what I've always known, I never really considered a duel without magic, but then the purpose of my duels have never been to harm, they've only been for fun. Given that I grew up with magic as an integral part of duels, my inclination is towards viewing them as a platform to showcase skills and finesse, and experience the thrill of a newly mastered spell hitting it's mark.  I suppose I need to start considering what a "serious" duel would need, and what the destructive potential of my magic could be.

+2 Theoretical

Ten of Pentacles

Today we had our first crafting lesson. I've never been very good at this. I got overly ambitious, and this coupled with my tendency to be distracted by anything and everything, means I often lose track of time. Not so great in a lesson with a time limit. As expected, we get to the end of the lesson and my project is only half-finished.

-1 on crafting exam outcome

Page of Wands

After the disaster of the crafting lesson we move on to something more familiar to me- spells. Today we are examining spells. Curiosity doesn't always kill the cat (the Dwynda). This time my curiosity lead to me discovering a hidden aspect of a well known incantation. The hidden facet involves an alternate casting method that, when employed, enhances the spells potency by adding in elements from Aetherial Chronomancy. I suppose, given that we are seemingly preparing for some unknown enemy, having a stronger spell is no bad thing.

+1 Theoretical

Nine of wands

Obviously there is a difference between understanding the hidden aspect and actually being able to cast it. My face is still burning from the embarrassment of my failure. In an attempt to incorporate the newly discovered alternate casting method for my spell, I discover that I can't actually read my own writing, misinterpret a crucial part of the incantation and manage to trigger a temporal distortion. The space around me momentarily shimmers and small, fleeting portals open connecting my current location to various points in it's history. Objects and echoes from different timelines briefly materialise, creating a surreal and disorienting scene. At least my class mates found it funny! Perhaps I'll type things up next time!

-2 Practical

[beardedhandstoadshark]

How would the new brothers act? Luigi and Bowser being the best of buddies is also like A tier in that au.

Oof that’s a good question. I didn’t really plan anything out and just kinda wrote that as is came. No clue about character stuff, but trying works right! …I can’t tell if this version of Bowser is too kind or too mean compared to his regular one though ^^;

Btw if you’ve got thoughts ABSOLUTELY free to put them in!! It’d be very cool to hear!!!

Ok, so, Luigi actually went on evil escapades as Mr. L in Super Paper Mario, where he was very cocky and showoff-y, always hyping himself up. Given how Luigi is normally, I always interpreted the way Mr. L acts as compensating for a hidden inferiority complex in Luigi. (At least in the older games, nowadays my man’s gained some confidence)

But anyways, combine that with Bowser‘s arrogant selfishness (and being Kamek‘s obvious favorite kid of the two), I imagine AUigi‘s complex gets cranked up by 10. I think he would’ve looked up to him as a kid and still kinda does. Dude secretly just wants his Turtle Bro‘s approval, man. (But like…in a "haha of COURSE I did I‘m great! >:3“ and not an "Omg you think so? :D“way, if that makes sense? The latter only when they were kids maybe). Meanwhile Bowser just gives peak "older mean brother antagonizing the younger“ vibes. Where Mario sees and treats his green brother as an equal, Bowser doesn’t.

However, since Bowser has a very well known caring side towards folks on his own team, that with his now Big-Broness means that if anything happens to Auigi, Bowser will personally come fuck you up. There is only ONE person who can be mean to Auigi and it’s HIM, ya hear. Bowser canonically has Proud Dad energy, you can’t tell me he wouldn’t have Big Bro energy too.

Idk, I think Bowser would treat him like he does his underlings most of the time, but it also often more towards how he acts with the Mario Bros whenever the three are teaming up, but nicer. Never downright adoring like Bowser is with his kid, more like "hey you weren’t doing half bad there Green Guy!“. Perhaps in certain situations even so far as to go along the lines of "of course the Great King of Koopas has a capable bro too (not as great as him tho but you can’t beat perfection)“. Those vibes.

Also since Mr L’s shown to be a mechanic building mechs for himself, I think Bowser‘d want him to build stuff for him too. Bowser does the designs (which are very him-centric) while Auigi does the building and puts Luigi-ness into the design. Maybe they argue on how it should look. In any case it’d be very extra >v< maybe even more so than Bowser‘s stuff looks normally, because they try one-upping each other’s designs.

They’d also definitely trade insults as banter all the time lol

Meanwhile Mario would be pretty curious about the one random human who’s apparently brothers with a giant turtle somehow?? …Neither mAUrio or AUigi would have enough brain cells to recognize the other looks like them tho. Absolutely that they look familiar, but not that they are, too. Auigi would downright be offended of anyone suggesting he had anything in common with this dude living in the woods with Yoshis. They’d probably be annoyed at each other but after the whole "Kamek is not his dad“ thing I think Aurio‘d still comfort him. Like, it’s the end of another boss battle where Auigi got defeated and he starts venting about all of this and Aurio‘s going "there there“ patting him on the shoulder or smth. Auigi ends up hyping himself up again and goes "yea maybe you’re pretty decent after all“,declares him worthy of being his rival, and dips to come back to help in the final battle. However he’d stop Mario from landing the final hit on Bowser because while they might be brothers, Bowser is still his bro.

Maybe he leaves of his own accord, maybe Bowser banishes him from Koopa Castle for going against him, but in any case, AUigi doesn’t stay there and goes off to chill either at Toadstool castle or with Aurio. He’d be a very annoying roommate in both cases lol

…after Auigi leaves Koopa Castle I think Bowser would start to miss him but be super defensive about it if pointed out, and the sequel becomes Bowser kidnapping Auigi as "revenge for betraying him" :)

[skyward-floored]

(@silvercaptain24)

Link stares at Impa in silence, his eyes huge and face pale. Impa almost says the words again, just so she can be sure he actually heard her.

“You’re... you’re my mother?” he says finally, voice barely more than a whisper.

“I am,” she confirms.

“You and Volga... you...”

“Yes.”

She hears Link’s breath catch.

“But... how are— how?” Link splutters, his voice hitching up a notch. A hand reaches up to clutch at his hair, fingers shaking. “You didn’t tell— why did you never tell me? I’ve seen you in passing so many times, I would have— why—”

He breathes in shakily, still clutching at his hair.

“Why did you give me up?” he whispers.

The brokenness in his voice is the same that’s in Impa’s chest, and she reaches out, uncertainly setting her hand over Link’s. He twitches like he wants to pull away, but doesn’t in the end.

“I had to,” she explains softly, closing her eyes. “You must understand, Link. Me and Volga’s union was not well known. If it had been discovered, I... I truly do not know what would have happened. I may well have been kicked out of my tribe. And if I had posed as an unwed mother instead... while I would have been treated with much more compassion, I would not have been allowed to hold the position of leadership I currently do.”

“So you gave me up for your job,” he says softly, voice ringing with hurt.

“I gave you up for my duty,” Impa corrects, and looks him in the eyes, willing him to understand. “And there is more to the story, Link. Please let me finish.”

Link looks down at her hand over his, and silently nods.

“What happened with you and Volga?” he asks in a quiet voice.

Impa sighs.

“...we had a falling-out,” she admits quietly. “I was at his home for a long-period assignment, and we fell in love. But when I had to leave, he asked me to stay, and I refused. My duty was to the royal family. I was convinced our love could continue from a distance, but Volga disagreed, and we fought. I left, and it wasn’t until I was home and started on my next assignment that I realized I was going to have you.”

Impa looks at her desk with another sigh.

“If anyone found out who your parents were, especially your father, it could have been deadly for us both. It was too dangerous for me to keep you, so Zelda’s mother helped me hide my pregnancy, and find a safe family for you to be raised by once you were born.”

“Sir Ulysses,” Link says quietly, and Impa nods.

“Yes. He was a good man. His wife... less so, but she did her best.”

“Did he know?” Link asks softly.

“Not the whole story, no. It’s possible he suspected, though he never said anything. I think perhaps he realized the danger of your identity, and kept it quiet,” Impa says. Link nods, and goes silent for a few minutes, obviously digesting the information he just received.

“The Queen knew?” he asks eventually, and Impa can’t help her smile.

“Yes. We were good friends when we were younger. She was the only other person I’ve ever told this story to.”

Link nods, and thinks again for a moment.

“If you and Volga... were together... why did he try to kill us?” Link asks next, his voice serious. “On that first day, when we discovered I’m the hero.”

A small, sharp pang of emotion hits Impa.

“There is a darkness about Volga now, one that wasn’t present before,” she says gravely. “I do not know if he even recognized me that first day, and I would be shocked if he acknowledged you beyond being the Hero. As far as I know, he is unaware a child existed. He has no reason to suspect you.”

“Unless Cia tells him,” Link says bitterly.

Impa sighs. “Unless Cia tells him. I doubt she would though. It would be of little advantage to her, and would only distract Volga from her goals.”

The secret is safe.

The tent falls truly silent then, Impa’s tale finished, Link’s questions exhausted for the moment. Impa usually prides herself on her ability to read others’ expressions, but Link’s face is impossible to decipher, his eyes curiously stormy.

“I need to think,” he says finally, voice quiet. “General.”

He stands up and makes to leave, pulling his hand out from under hers.

“Captain.”

Link pauses at the doorway at the word, and Impa looks at him, wishing she knew what to say. She can only imagine what must be going through his head right now, what he must think of her and the situation her actions landed him in.

“...Link. I have... not been much of a mother to you. I have had to watch you from a distance all of your life, and I cannot claim to truly know you as others do,” she says in a soft voice. “But I want you to know I could not be prouder of the young man you have turned out to be.”

Link swallows, something odd shining in his eyes.

Then he gives a small bob of his head, and leaves her tent, the tail end of his scarf the last thing she sees of him.

Impa leans back in her chair, and closes her eyes, paperwork forgotten.

“General?”

Impa looks up from her papers at the question, seeing Link standing uneasily in the entrance to her tent. She knew he’d come here sooner rather than later, and inwardly steels herself, levelly meeting his gaze.

“Captain,” she acknowledges, and he enters her tent at the unspoken permission, looking oddly nervous as he stands a respectful distance away. It’s quiet between them for a moment, and Impa waits for him to speak first.

She already knows what he’s going to say.

“General, I... did... did you know my mother?” he asks quietly.

Impa blinks, slightly taken aback. Not the exact question she was expecting. “Why do you ask?”

Link shifts, looking uncomfortable.

“I heard some of what Volga said when you fought. It seemed like you might...” He trails off, and looks at his boots. “...You know that Cia said he’s my father. But I know nothing about my mother, and... I’d like to know more. If you know.”

Impa sets her papers aside, and turns, gesturing for Link to sit down with a sigh.

“I’ll tell you what I can,” she says carefully, watching as he sits. “I apologize you had to find out about Volga from Cia. She had no right to be the one to tell you that.”

Impa swallows, and folds her arms.

“I should have told you sooner.”

Her words take a moment to sink in, but once they do, Link snaps his gaze up and stares at her in shock.

“You knew?”

“Yes. Since before you were born.”

“Well wh— why didn’t you tell me? Why keep it a secret?” he asks in a hurt voice, then catches himself and steadies his tone. “...General.”

Impa lets out a long, careful breath. She bows her head and gathers herself, finding the sense of calm she learned how to harness in her training all those years ago. Words she’d considered speaking for years now grow heavy on her tongue, and a sudden lump wedges in her throat, full of old hurt. But she swallows it down and looks up at Link, meeting his eyes that are just as bright as his father’s used to be.

She studies his features, then sighs, and closes her eyes.

“Because I am your mother,” she whispers.

Link doesn’t move.

“What?” he croaks after a minute, his face pale as chalk.

“I am your mother,” Impa repeats, refusing to let her voice crack. It does a little anyway.

“And Volga is your father.”