#personally I leaned into romance ideas when writing the song

[clovermusic]

22. Ship/Hangout

a song about adeleine and ribbon! interpret as ship if you'd like :)

written for a hypothetical scenario in which ado tries her best to paint a portrait of ribbon and feels her stomach in knots

[archived-daydreams]

— First love, late spring.

Summary: what does it feel like, to fall in love with them?

Characters: Jing Yuan, Dan Heng, Gepard, Kafka, Bronya, Serval, Asta x gender neutral reader.

Word count: 1.2 k.

Tags: fluff.

Author’s note: my debut writing for Honkai Star Rail ! I know Jing Yuan hasn’t been released yet, so his part is just personal interpretation; all in all, these are just some sort of little headcanons I wanted to try imagining and writing down, I hope you enjoy <3

Reblog to support your favorite authors ! It helps more than likes.

JING YUAN

Falling in love with the Cloud Knight general feels like returning to a home you still hadn’t realized how much you’d longed for.

His calm presence draws you in, a melodious and crackling hearth beckoning you forward in shades of gold and skies at sundown. To stand beside him could be compared to entering a secret forest, where the moon rises as she kisses the dipping sun on the cheek as they meet at dusk. Birds chirp happily, as if revealing the songs your heart likes to play when you are with Jing Yuan, the heat in your cheeks, a manifestation of the firework embers lighting up the starry twilight. The general puts his arm around your shoulders, bringing your form closer to his, fluffy argent hair tickling the side of your neck.

You lean into him, the sunset looks a little brighter when your lover’s lips graze your temple.

And when his big calloused hand intertwines its fingers with yours, you know with him, anywhere is paradise.

DAN HENG

Scarlet maple forests feel more magical underneath the stars.

In the same way, pieces of every story and memory that constitute the wielder of Cloud-Piercer take form before your eyes as you make your way starwards.

Not one for many words or idle conversation, Dan Heng shows you the emotions he conceals to the public in small actions, starlit fragments only the one who dares to rummage between the layers of crimson leaves will uncover. Shielding you from unexpected enemies, helping you up and down the platform of the express, throwing a blanket over your shoulders when you inevitably pass out on the couch after running around with March… And when, still halfway into your realm of dreams, you call his name, a keen eye may spot on the express gurad’s cheeks some of the carmine usually adrift in the breeze in the autumn months.

Then again, if could be just your sleepy imagination…

Perhaps. is the lingering “what if” echoing on your mind.

GEPARD

The steady rock amidst a tumultuous ocean, relentless waves colliding against its silvery surface, time and time again.

Yet the rock does not yield.

Much in the same way the captain of the Silvermane Guards is your white-hot anchor in the blizzard.

No matter how hurt you are, Gepard stays.

No matter how drained and wasted your last breakup left you, his strong arms embrace you, the biting gales futile against his hold.

And maybe, taking notice of your own (and his) feelings might take you a while.

But Gepard Landau’s heart only knows loyalty.

So he waits.

For you to realize, for the sun to finally shine, and mark the path from you to him.

Because argent tends to reflect the skies, and only when the morning star deigns to shine, can the cobblestones tying you together gleam.

You take a step, and you know Gepard Landau is your only destination.

KAFKA

Exhilarating and with “danger” spelled in boldened capitals, that is how romance with the Stellaron’s Hunter feels.

The rational part of you warned you this was a bad idea, yet, as they say, sometimes, the heart wants what it wants.

Freedom prevailed that night, and your lips met the Interastral Peace Corporation’s most wanted’s.

It could have been the drinks you had, against your better judgment, the sweet intoxication of the alcohol in your system and of the temptation of her, a ticking bomb combination.

But caution is thrown to the wind the moment Kafka wraps her priced coat around your shoulders, her lips sensually whispering in your ear, promises of a million idyllic tomorrows together already tangling in the messy yarn ball of your mind.

But who are you to refuse? Or how could anyone, for that matter? When her painted lips envelop yours under the infinity of the firmament?

BRONYA

Dignified, smart, and the picture perfect image of what a heir should be like.

However, what is hidden beyond that icy facade of flawless poise?

Your sweet lover, a girl who enjoys the sound of tranquil nights and hurried steps by morning, someone who lets herself daydream to the faint music coming from Golden Theater.

A beautiful and enchanting contradiction, a storm of opposites you can’t help but get lost in, from the pretty curls of her lucent hair, to her determined gunmetal gaze.

Who would have thought, you think with a tender smile, as your hands run through her steel moonlit tresses, that you’d get to win the heart of the Heir to the Supreme Guardian of Belebog?

Leaving a soft kiss to the crown of her head, you lay down beside her in bed. With a last look out the window at the slate sky, you close your eyes.

The lyrics to a ballad swirl in your mind, probably coming from Golden Theater.

In the dim light, you find your girlfriend’s hand.

That night, Bronya Rand would be the actress in your oneiric plane, her heart, yours alone.

SERVAL

Electrifying and magnetizing, akin to a violet horizon right before a storm. The thunder in the distance makes your every hair stand on end, yet you can’t help longing for something more.

Afternoons helping Serval out at Neverwinter Workshop always end with you sitting before her, wide smile aglow on your features as she picks up her electric guitar. You always loved the way her sapphire eyes sparkled when she talked about this or that new song she was composing, but actually getting to see her perform for you alone… that’s enough to get you giddy.

Her painted nails strum the cords with ease, each of them bending at the workshop owner’s will, as lightning seems to take command of your heart, its thundering pace and the melody she plays seamlessly dancing to the beat of a fervent tango.

As the sky throws its indigo shawl over the lovers, the blonde gazes at you, a pretty (and unusual) rosy tone on her cheeks, a silent inquire for your thoughts about her new piece.

After all, you’re always the first one to hear every new song she comes up with.

ASTA

The girl who used to dream of naming stars after herself finally found a star that will always orbit around the fiery sun she is.

Her crystalline eyes look up from the papers she was sorting out until moments ago, her lips curving up in a crescent not unlike the one she used to observe, when she spots you.

Two cups of coffee in hand, you sit beside her, your head leaning on her shoulder. Your hand catches hers over the table, prompting her to stop the frantic scribbling of her pen.

And the instant her opalescent gaze meets yours, she is breathless, a nebula the color of her hair spreading through her cheeks. Her pen falls out of her grasp, the words she never seems at a loss for, failing her.

As they do every time when it comes to you.

But who could blame her? When she’d trade every galaxy and celestial body in this universe and the next for a millisecond next to you?

The lead researcher of Herta Space Station closes her notepad.

For now, work can wait.

[volturiprincess]

To love You in an Old Way

Jasper Hale x human mate reader

Summary: Reader is a fan of old school love Warnings: None, just pure fluff A/N: This one-shot was inspired by this song I been listening on repeat lately, its called "Amarte a la Antigua" or "To Love You in an Old Way" by Eslabon Armado. I added lyrics from the song onto this (Spanish is my first language so translating was easy) From just that song theres another song I listen from this group and another one shot idea came to idea. There will be another A/N in the end. Enjoy :)

(You can never forget your first love for a Vampire)

“Today we no longer write letters to fall in love

Today the flowers are no longer seen”

I have never been serenaded by gifts or even experienced all those old school love gestures. I always said I had no interest in being serenaded but secretly I wished that everything you see in the movies could happen to me. The endless romance books I have drowned myself in so that I could try to picture myself in those romantic scenes leaves me with an unsaid desire. But it is an unrequired thing, guys at school just don't work like that anymore 

“Where has that romance gone?

There are no longer poems to conquer each other

Now only emails are sent”

That is until a certain cowboy came into my life, Jasper Hale. I always admired him from a distance and didn't really approach him in any way until he awkwardly but oh so adorable came up to me one day and said “Hello y/n would you like to go out with me to a bookstore in Port Angeles”. The way he had a hint of anxiety in his eyes and how he flexed his arms behind his back left me curious as to why he was so nervous to talk to me. From that moment 2 years ago today, we have been together ever since, and yes I do know about him and his family being vampires and his past even. There are days where he has to be away from me to control his thirst but I never feel disappointed or hurt. I do always praise him for how far he has come to being able to be around me without the feeling of wanting to drain my blood in a second. 

But the thing I absolutely love about Jasper is he is an old school lover, makes sense since he is old but he does everything you would see in the movies. At first it started with just short poem phrases left inside my locker or in the books I would read, 

“Loving you the old way, stealing your smiles

Hold your hand, open the door for you, write you poems

love like before”

And from that he started to write full on poems, one of them being called “To love you in old way”, which just hits my heart in every way. He then started to give me little gifts, nothing fancy yet unless you count chocolates but he would give me little drawings he's done throughout the day or once he gave me a bracelet he made that had a small heart and rose charm. I still wear that bracelet to this day. 

“Fill you with roses, sing you songs, paint you caresses”

When he writes me poems, he leaves them in my bedroom with a bouquet of my favorite flowers each time. The way he loves me is something I never knew could exist, he's so suave with his southern charm  and the way he can sit for hours listening to me talk just makes my heart swell. Many would assume just because he's the reserve type he lacks being a romantic type, but when me and him are alone he says some of the most dazzling and mesmerizing things that can put any poet to shame

Like just a minute ago he said this line 

“In you, I have found the love that fills my soul”

And with his Texan accent, it made it more personal.

“Was that an Edgar Allan Poe quote?”

“It was, I figured you would like it for the reason being you love his works”

“Oh you know me so well cowboy”

He smirked slightly and pulled me into his embrace so my back was against his chest while he was leaning against a tree. 

“I like how you learned quotes from his works to woe me, even if he focuses more on the dark and terror of life”

“Well one thing I have grown to know about you is books are a key to your heart”

“Yes true, and food, don't forget food”

The way he laughs makes me melt into him more, his laugh is quiet like the sounds of small bells ringing, so angelic yet at the same time so bewitching.

“I could never forget that about you darlin”

I thought about our first date, I was internally panicking and was overthinking constantly of what to say to him, I was debating to just be myself or my quiet self. What made me loosen up with him was he gave me this aura of calm, at the time I didn't understand how but with that feeling I relaxed and was able to finally be myself. Since our first date was at a bookstore, he held all the books I wanted and he didn't protest or anything, actually he would recommend books or I would catch him sneaking books into my growing pile. After that date, we just knew we fit like a puzzle, it was then confirmed later that Jasper and I are mates which confused me since I am human. 

We would spend hours either in his room or mine reading and then talking about it afterwards. He really is my missing piece to my soul. My parents even approved of Jasper and would be happy to have him over or even letting him stay the night or vice versa. They knew Jasper was the perfect gentleman and wouldn't do anything to hurt me, which is true in every way, even if he does have his days where he struggles with his thirst control.

“Penny for thoughts?”

At hearing his voice through my mist of memories I answered “I was just thinking about our first date”

“What about it?”

“Just thinking how we fit like two puzzle pieces”

He kissed the top of my head and mumbled quietly

“You have no idea how true that is”

I grabbed his hand and traced his visible veins. I would often do that to make him relax more and in a way it comforted me. As for him I noticed he would bury his face into my hair, he says my hair smells like flowers and I could feel him melt everytime he did that. 

“Can I ask you something”

His sudden voice in our quiet bliss startled me

“Yea? What's up?”

“Well I have a supplication for you”

I raised an eyebrow at that word but pulled away from him so I could face him.

“Supplication? You never fail to amuse me with your formal words but continue with your supplication”

His radiantly affectionate smirk spread onto his face. He reached into his pocket and pulled a small box out, seeing that box my eyes widened slightly, is it what i think it is? With opening the box I can already see the twinkling diamond shining through 

“Darlin’ the moment I meet you I felt I could finally breathe again, I felt somewhat human once again and my dark past did not cloud my mind as much, I don't know what I would do if I were to ever lose you or let you do, that might sound selfish but damn dang it I love you doll, Will you do me the honor and marry me?”

My tears were already building up when he barely said his first words. The man of my dreams is asking for my hand in marriage and the way the sunlight was hitting him made him look so surreal, it felt like we were in a dream at that moment.

“YES Jas, YES!!”

His smile widened and he placed the ring on my finger in an instant and pulled me into a deep kiss. This kiss didn't feel like any other kiss we had in the past, it felt like all our past deception vanished and it was just me and him in this whole world. And to think this all started with me craving for that old antique love gestures. 

“Love you the old way, love you like before”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: I love Jasper, as I said in one of my past post, he was my first Vampire love until well I discovered Felix but I still love him never less. I have another idea for a one shot with another song but this time it will be about Caius, hence to why I have one of his quotes in my bio.

[razzdazzledoo]

How do you feel about people roleplaying as MX?

Alright everyone, sit down. I've been waiting for this moment.

Welcome to

RAZZDAZZLEDOO'S QUICK GUIDE TO WRITING MX!!

For those who wanna be in-line with the character while still having the freedom of not being canon.

So first things first, let's get the ground basis with MX.

MX does what he does for the reactions it brings, that kinda stuff is his entertainment. So he plans ahead, hoping to find the best snowball effect for the strongest look of terror on people's faces.

Though he doesn't plan THAT much, he gets a ground base and then improvises the rest of it so it's hard to plan ahead against him.

He's also not meant to be intimidating all the time either, his playmates will get bored if it's the same song and dance so he plays into other personalities to throw them off.

When their guard's down? He strikes while the iron's hot. And that makes them terrified even more.

Second, how he interacts with other people.

It ultimately depends on what the other person's like. Are they exactly like him? Do they have the potential to be? Or are they like Lucas where they clearly fear him?

Those kinda aspects will play into the chemistry MX can have with a person. He's best friends with Executable M and Mr. Virtual for a reason, they're just like him in the sense of 'tormenting for their own entertainment' along with whatever goals they have.

If they show fear, he'll play into it. He'll show them reasons to fear him, and then the next moment deceive them into believing there's some good in his heart. Only to then tear down those chances, and watch them crumble.

"What if I wanna ship my MX roleplay with someone?"

You have the freedom to do that, don't let me restrict you from having fun. I'll provide how he would, in-character, respond to romance. But I wanna get some rules down first.

Do not be sexual with him. That kinda shit makes me incredibly uncomfortable, not to mention I don't see him ever showing interest to the thought.

Do not ship him in problematic scenarios. This can include: People in the victim role, like MX took their soul and put them in a vessel; Characters who are directly stated to be minors; And characters that use Luigi's likeness. I outright forbid this and will not hesitate to block you if I see it.

Build up to it. MX obviously isn't going to know what the hell a "relationship" is, he's never entertained the idea and so it's going to take some time for him to learn. He's gonna have to figure out why he feels the way he does around that specific person, whether with their guidance or not.

He knows that humans can feel love, and how they respond to it, since he's been around since the universe's creation; but he personally doesn't know much on the subject.

When he realizes he's actually capable of love, he's not gonna know how to respond to it. He might even outright avoid the person he feels those emotions to since he has not an iota of knowledge with relationships.

If your interpretation of MX has an actual friendship with other muses, and he gets along greatly, he might go to them about it as a show of trust and they can help him figure it out.

Otherwise, he'd try and leave "gifts" for his special someone. Like a cat bringing you a dead bird, for comparison. Most of his gifts are eldritch abominations though, like a smaller version of one of his clouds in his world as an example.

On the other hand, if his special someone went to him first about pursuing a relationship and he does feel love towards them as well; He'd go along with it, essentially being a big giant teddy bear for them if he thinks it'd be funny enough.

If someone tries to pursue a relationship with him and he feels no attraction, he just kinda messes with them about it. Poking fun that they'd fall in love with a monster like him, who'd never love them back.

There's no canon MX ship, I just personally lean more towards Powerforest since it's a comfort ship of mine.

"What are some other tips?"

If your interpretation of MX can frown, make it have impact. That brute smiles all the time, regardless of the situation; So if he frowns, that's gonna have to mean something.

Canonically if MX frowns, he's locked in. He's not gonna waste time playing around, he wants you DEAD.

Don't be afraid to be silly sometimes.

It'd get awful boring real quick if MX was one-dimensional in a roleplay scenario, having something like that can give him way more depth and I encourage it.

You don't need to follow this guide exactly, but please still be respectful of the boundaries I expressed in here.

This is not meant to be a rulebook on how to write MX, you still have the freedom to write him how you feel most comfortable with writing him. This is just how I go about writing the character in my own spaces.

[cherryflavoured7777]

okay i’m thinking a fic where you’re spending your first christmas with Hazel 🥹 and making a gingerbread house while drinking hot cocoa and watching movies… like TONS of fluff im in love with her.

PS i love u and ur writing so much 🩷

THANK U SM ANGEL <3 ily.

(THIS IS PURE FLUFF. BORDERLINE TOO SWEET BUT I AM A very cheesy hoe IM SORRY, you have been warned)

You and Hazel spend your first Christmas Eve together. <3.

word count: 2k

⭐️🎄⭐️🎄⭐️🎄⭐️

December 24th, Christmas Eve, found you spending the entire day at your girlfriend Hazel's house. The two of you totally immersing yourselves in a festive atmosphere, indulging in baking sessions, adding last minute decorations to the space, and listening to a blend of both classic Christmas tunes and your personal favourite songs.

You stood at the kitchen island, putting the finishing touches on a round of baking.

"Smells amazing, baby," Hazel sighed as she wrapped her arms around you from behind, observing you intently as you worked on mixing your second batch of cookies.

"Yeah?" you hummed.

"Mhmm, can't wait to try them." You felt the comforting weight of her chin resting on your shoulder, a warmth spreading through your body.

In the oven, your initial batch of Christmas cookies baked, ready to accompany the gingerbread house you were about to create.

Hazel snakes her arm in-front of you, dipping her finger into the cookie batter you're mixing.

"Hey! no tasting the batter yet." you protest.

"It's not for me, I already snuck a taste when you weren't looking. Open your mouth. You gotta try it."

Hazel’s hands met your waist again, and she gently spun you around.

She drew you a bit closer, fingers gently encircling your waist as she slid her batter-covered finger into your mouth, inviting you to taste. Her eyes grew slightly darker as she watched you slowly suck the batter off her finger, pupils fixated on your mouth. With raised eyebrows, she watched you expectantly.

"See?" She removes her finger from your mouth and licks the excess batter off her finger. "My girl can bake."

It all feels incredibly domestic, and merely being in her presence evokes a flutter in your stomach, a sensation that persists despite the fact that you see her almost every day. Love with Hazel unfolds in unexpectedly simple moments, and you can't help but feel fortunate, a sentiment she shares. The idea of experiencing such a pure connection once seemed unlikely to her, until she met you.

Your eyes stay fixated on hers before for a moment before she speaks.

"I love having you here,” she blurted out.

“I love being here,” you replied.

"No," she seemed a bit frustrated, as if you didn't fully grasp how deeply she meant it.

"Seeing you here gets me excited. Excited about what the future holds for us, you know? I know it sounds insane, or maybe like I’m thinking too far down the line, but I can't wait to come home to you existing in our place one day. Our kitchen, with the stuff we picked out together." Though confident and intentional, you could tell Hazel’s words were laced with vulnerability and a tad of insecurity.

Hazel’s words didn’t freak you out, though, they actually did the opposite. You never imagined you could feel so deeply enamored with another person. Truthfully, you would give her whatever she wanted.

"I know, Haze. Me too. I think about it so much, more than you know," you reassure her.

Hands still on your waist, she lifts you onto the countertop, adjusting slightly to stand between your legs.

Your hand instinctively reaches up to hold her face. You were both so young, and perhaps naive, but you never let that stop you from having these thoughts. You felt you owed yourself a completely lovesick, teenage romance, not tainted by fears of the future, not yet at least.

Your hands brush a strand of brown hair from her face, and you lean down to kiss her.

Whenever you kissed Hazel, you understood why people wanted to kiss, why they chased this feeling.

Growing up, you never quite understood it as much. But here in this moment, and every other one like it, you finally did. The warmth of her lips against yours, the subtle taste of cookie batter lingering between you—it's a simple joy that seems to encapsulate everything sweet and pure in your shared world.

You pull away, leaving her chasing you for more “Alright we gotta get these out of the oven, get out of my way,” you playfully command.

Walking over to put on your oven mitts, you take the tray out, carefully placing it on the stove. The sugary sweet aroma of the cookies envelops the kitchen with a rich warmth.

“I think we make a pretty good team,” Hazel says, smiling at you and admiring your baking.

“What are you talking about? I did all the work,” you tease, giggling as you await her response, turning back around to face her.

“Hey! That’s not true, I-” You cut off her protest with another kiss, choosing to indulge her instead of teasing her further. She smiles into the kiss, grabbing your waist before before her fingers start to trail along your spine, igniting a electricity against your skin. Letting the heated exchange linger, the playful banter transforms into a more intense moment as she slowly walks you backward and pushes you against the counter again.

The kitchen's warmth now feels more noticeable as ever as Hazel's lips leave yours and find their way to the sensitive curve of your neck. Soft, breathy sighs escape your lips, and you feel the air thicken around you. Hazel's hands move with purpose, exploring the contours of your body, leaving a trail of fire in their wake.

The magnetic pull between you intensifies, making it momentarily hard to focus on anything but the rising wanting in your chest. Yet, amidst the heat of the moment, Hazel manages to steer the energy back to your task, her lips lingering near your ear.

“Okay, ready to tackle this beast?” she asks, motioning to the unopened gingerbread house. The mischievous glint in her eyes tells you that she knew exactly what she was doing.

“Absolutley.” you smile, trying to seem unphased and ignore the growing heat between your thighs.

The next half-hour is spent constructing the gingerbread house with Hazel around her kitchen table. She eventually pulls you onto her lap on her chair, her arms encircling you as she reaches behind with the frosting, guiding your hands to steady them as you outline the bodies of the gingerbread men. Laughter reverberates through the room as you and Hazel engage in a frosting fight, adorning the gingerbread with colorful candies and sprinkles, not really paying too much attention to where you're putting them.

“This looks like shit,” you say, staring at your handiwork. Hastily, you reach to save the drooping roof thats caving in.

You can feel Hazel’s breath against your ear behind you as she lets out a laugh, her arms wrapping around you to help salvage the falling structure. The shared moment becomes a sweet memory, even if the gingerbread house didn't turn out as planned.

"I think it's perfect," Hazel declares, placing a gentle kiss on your cheek.

You glance around the room, the glow of Christmas lights casting a warm ambiance. The sound of holiday music playing softly in the background adds to the sweetness of the moment.

“Come on, I’m getting sleepy, let's go watch a movie,” she says, lifting you off her lap, interlacing your hand with hers as she pulls you up the stairs to her room.

You make your way up to Hazel's room, quickly discarding your T-shirt in exchange for one of her oversized sweatshirts, carrying her comforting scent.

Entering the bathroom, you find Hazel already brushing her teeth. You grab your toothbrush from the cup beside her sink, one that you kept there all the time because she insisted.

Staring at each other in the mirror, you both giggle as you brush your teeth in tandem, finding joy in the simplicity of shared routines. When Hazel finishes, she comes up behind you, grabbing a hair tie to keep your hair away from your face as you wash it. She mindlessly held your hips as you bent over to splash water on your face.

You and Hazel were both extremely clingy, but you couldn’t help it, always wanting to be close.

After both of you finish your skincare, you make your way over to her bed, clicking on the remote to her TV as you get comfortable under the covers.

“Okay, you have two choices, Home Alone or The Holiday?” you say as she climbs into bed beside you. She smells like soap and cookie batter.

“Why only those two?” She shifts under the covers, positioning herself beside you.

“Because those are my favourites,” you reply.

“I’ll watch whatever you want, babe,” Hazel says, a yawn escaping her mouth as she wraps her arm around you.

“If you fall asleep, I’m gonna be sad,” you warn. “I want to stay up with you until at least midnight. It's our first Christmas together, and I have to go home in the morning.” You pout.

Hazel’s eyes reflect a certain sadness in them, like she didn’t know how much you wanted her to stay awake. All of a sudden, it's as if her tiredness is gone as she sits up and walks across the room. She opens her closet and pulls something out, a large, flat, wrapped gift.

"Okay, I have something for you," Hazel grinned, excitement dancing in her eyes.

“But, my gifts for you are at home, I thought we were waiting until tomorrow.” You say, a pang of guilt hitting you.

“Shh- it’s fine. I want you to open it now, it’s just a small thing, I have more for tomorrow.” she says.

Her hands trembling slightly with anticipation, Hazel handed over the gift, a hint of nervousness in her smile. Your eyes light up as you accept the package, curiosity mingling with joy.

"Oh wow, Hazel, it's so beautifully wrapped," you say, carefully unwrapping the present.

As the paper fell away, revealing a sleek and elegant box, Hazel couldn't help but hold her breath. You opened the box to find a delicate frame containing a customized star map. The night sky on the night you first met, immortalized in a celestial display.

"Oh, Hazel," you gasped, your eyes welling up with emotion. You recongized the date immediately "Is this…?"

Hazel nodded, her heart swelling with affection. "It's the night we first met. The stars above us that night," she explained, her voice tender.

You and Hazel constantly argue about your first official time meeting. The truth is, she’d watched you from afar for months, never thinking she’d actually have a chance with you. You didn’t officially talk until the first night of senior year, at the annual senior campout. You’d spent basically that entire night with Hazel, following her in awe as she pointed out different constellations to you, her infatuation with astronomy becoming quickly apparent.

You traced your fingers over the constellations, a smile playing on your lips. "This is incredible. I can't believe you did this."

Hazel leaned in, placing a gentle kiss on your cheek. "I wanted us to have a piece of that moment forever. Something to remind us of where it all began."

The room seemed to shimmer with warmth as you pulled Hazel into a tight embrace, the framed star map cradled between you two.

“Thank you, Haze. I love it.” You whisper into her hair.

“Your welcome, baby. I’m glad you like it” she whispers back.

You spend the next two hours tangled up together watching The Holiday. Completely content in eachothers presence. As the credits roll, Hazel’s hands find yours, lightly toying with your fingers. “Hey, pass me your phone.” She whispers.

You reach for it beside you and hand it to her. She turns it on, the clock showing 12:13am, December 25th. She turns to look at you, beaming.

“We made it,” she says smiling, pressing a quick kiss to the corner of your mouth.

“Merry Christmas, baby.” She buried her head in the crook of your neck, peppering warm kisses all over.

“Merry Christmas, my love.” You whisper, hands finding her hair.

She coaxes you onto your side, pulling you into her, gently stroking your hair. The movie soundtrack faded into the background, replaced by the quiet cadence of your shared breaths. Hazel's fingers traced soothing patterns on your back, and as the clock ticked away the minutes, you succumbed to the gentle pull of sleep.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

NAHHH CAUSE I NEED A GF THIS CHRISTMAS NOW. WILL I EVER FIND LOVE??

[darcydarlingdabbles]

Hotel Field Trip Drabble

Thoughts based on this post [Link] about Charlie and Alastor taking a field trip to a human hotel for "business experience" lol

// Adorable. I just wanted to write some scene ideas. And it went Charlastor shippy immediately...though I didn't add pets. Human Alastor based on this post [Link] //

Charlie looks almost like herself with slightly less pale like death vibe, but she looks like herself.

No one is prepared for how Alastor looks as a human. Like, stunned silence silence in the hotel lobby when he joins Charlie. He is a gorgeous biracial man with oval glasses, perfectly swooshed dark hair, and a smile that is charming when it doesn't stretch demonically across his face. Tall and lean and impeccably dressed.

Alastor is not prepared for how people see him as a human.

He was a half-creole man in the Jim Crow era south. The same people who loved his radio show were probably vile to him in person. (h/c that this is why he hates being photographed and says this face is made for radio) But a hundred years later culture has shifted and he's suddenly not only acceptable but desirable.

When they get to the human hotel in New Orleans--guess what, there's only one bed. (Surprised Pikachu)

There's a roaring 20s convention in town, maybe also some true crime TikTokers too. Ultimate Alastor chagrin. People parading around like they're from his day--but the dresses, the fashion, everything is just all wrong. Don't get him started on Jazz covers of pop songs.

He asks Charlie to kill him again because he'd rather be in hell.

Guess what, only room they have is the honeymoon suite.

Elevator is so crowded Alastor does the wall lean over Charlie to keep them both from being crushed. No, sir, you cannot murder a whole elevator for being in your personal space but you can be in hers.

Debating if there's a "ghost tour" where some of Alastor's victims are said to be haunting the place. Ends with him destroying a tiktoker's phone.

Yes serial killer Alastor had his own "moral code" but he makes it emphatically clear to Charlie that he was still a monster that enjoyed killing. And hell is the perfect place for him, because everyone there failed to be moral—other than the hellborn, like Charlie.

One night Alastor tries avoiding Charlie by going to the bar, maybe while she's enjoying dancing nearby. He's had a few drinks when an older woman starts aggressively hitting on him.

literally cannot compute. Cannot shake her because he's a mamma's boy with manners and the lady won't take no for an answer. Charlie said not to kill anyone.

Alastor using Charlie as a human shield—against flirtations.

Alastor and Charlie getting to dance to music from his time. He has a moment to think...Charlie is exactly the girl his mother would have liked him to bring home. And the girl he would never deserve.

Annnnd some how I turn that angst into a happy ending because

I write romances not tragedies, dammit!!

Update: I started the fic!! link

[keyotos]

so it goes...

summary − what taylor swift album & song do the hsr men and their love resemble?

includes — dan heng, gepard, blade, sampo, & jing yuan!

tana’s words — self indulgent swiftie attempts to do song analysis and write romance! if u have any other ideas for hcs/fics/etc lmk in my ask box!!

dan heng

definitely belongs on the evermore album

i'm seeing long story short or tis the damn season

⎯ but most importantly: WILLOW

when she says “head on the pillow i can feel you sneaking in as if you were a mythical thing.” LIKE IS THAT NOT DAN HENG.

or i could be extremely self indulgent idk

⎯ i believe dan heng is a big YEARNER

the thing about the evermore album is that it just feels like a long and yearned reunion. it’s like coming full circle.

you and dan heng’s relationship would be similar to that. after all the long and exhausting days you two would always find yourselves circling back to each other. like, you two are both there when you two need each other.

your relationship is calm and based on pining (long story short). you would think it’s one-sided, but little did you know that it was mutual.

⎯ WHEN SHE SAYS “you know that my train can take you home. anywhere else is hollow.”

due to the both of you probably traveling on the astral express, so the both of you don’t actually have a “home.”

“you know that my train can take you home,” relates to your relationship w/ dan heng because simply your presence is his home. and it also relates to the astral express too BUT YOUR PRESENCE = HIS PEACE.

⎯ it’s literally such a small and simple thing, but it means a lot to dan heng. just having you around is like bliss to him, and it’s the little things that matter.

— the themes of coming back to a person in evermore is SO dan heng. if anything happens, you are the first person he’d check on. you are the first thought in his mind when he wakes up. wherever his mind (or body) goes, it’s always back to you. he’s completely bewitched with you. like YOU ARE THE FIRST THING ON HIS MIND.

gepard

omg he is most definitely fearless.

⎯ he’s either fearless or red but i’m definitely leaning towards fearless

⎯ if his love was to be defined in a song it would either be jump then fall or untouchable. those are the top 2.

⎯ maybe fearless…

⎯ gepard is def a fearless boy bc like THAT WHOLE ALBUM IS JUST SO SWEET. like your relationship with him would be the sweetest thing in the world.

TELL ME NONE OF THESE LYRICS RESONATE

“untouchable, burning brighter than the sun. and when you’re close i feel like coming undone.” OR “in the middle of the night waking from this dream, i wanna feel you by my side standing next to me.” - untouchable

“every time you smile, i smile. and every time you shine, i’ll shine for you. don’t be afraid to jump then fall into me.” - jump then fall

LIKE…

love w/ gepard is pure and untouchable (yes). there is nothing but love between your relationship.

he definitely admires you. he is 100% the type of person to take candid photos of you just to look at them if he’s at work. he wants to be his best for you, and he just enjoys everything about you.

the thrill of a new relationship is still alive in your relationship with gepard. it doesn’t matter if you guys have been dating for like 2 years. gepard will still get so red if you kiss him. the same exciting feeling he got every time he kissed you is still there

— every time he kisses you (which is surprisingly often; not in public tho) he gets so red. but the same warmth and giddy feeling from your first kiss is still there.

the thing abt fearless is that it’s such an innocent and cute album. it’s similar to your relationship w/ gepard in a way that your relationship captures that feeling of everlasting and innocent love.

blade

reputation. maybe midnights ngl.

⎯ reputation is one of taylor’s most romantic albums and honestly blade lowk gives me romantic energy.

⎯ i can see midnights but i think i’m leaning more towards rep here.

⎯ so many good songs on rep that could describe blade but i think i’m going to go with delicate or dress. so it goes is also a close third.

most ppl usually associate rep w feelings of revenge. but most people overlook the super sweet love songs on the album.

rep is similar to blade’s love in that way. most people overlook it, thinking that nothing more than a fling or it’s disingenuous.

however, they couldn’t be nothing but wrong. blade loves you. he cherishes you more than anyone (even you) knows.

also like REP’S LYRICS?? SO ROMANTIC LIKE

“my one and only my lifeline.” (dress).

“everyone thinks they know us.” (dress).

“even in my worst lies, you saw the truth in me.” (dress).

— does that not describe you and blade. like, he would literally do anything you say. he’d listen to you for hours and hours because nothing matters more to him then you.

— you two don’t pay attention to the rumors (that are terrible and cruel) or what anyone else says, because to blade, you being by his side is more important.

— and i think hurt and comfort would work well too. like, there could be terrible things happening rn and shit is going down. but throughout it all, you are the one constant that holds him down. through all the hazards, you still love him and he appreciates your love greatly.

sampo

— lover. i thought he’d be 1989 at first but he is definitely lover.

— i am seeing false god, i think he knows, or miss americana and the heartbreak prince.

your love would be fun and happy, much like the album lover (minus soon you’ll get better). it’s fulfilling and it always finds a way to surprise you.

— though some find parts of lover annoying (me!), they don’t really spend a lot of time to look into the lyrics of the album.

much like your love w/ sampo: people dislike him and wonder how he managed to get a girl like you to fall in love with him.

what they don’t know is that he’s (shockingly) kind?? and he cares about you?? and he remembers all the small things you like??? and he’ll always be right there when anything happens to you??

lover itself is such a cheerful and sweet album and i think it really describes his love: loud and sweet. he’ll do embarrassing things and he will probably get on your nerves, but throughout all of that he’s still caring and loving.

— “they say the road gets hard when you’re lead by blind faith. but we might just get away with it.”

— ITS SUCH A ROMANTIC AND UNDERRATED LINE THAT COMPLETELY DEFINES UR RELATIONSHIP

even though people think your relationship is set up to fail, you two are both determined to prove them wrong bc that’s how strong your love for each other is. he is never letting you go and you will do the same.

jing yuan

— midnights! no doubt abt it.

— sweet nothing, labyrinth, and MAYBE snow on the beach

— sweet nothing is HIS SONG. like THAT IS HIM.

his live is so packed and there’s so much going on. he’s juggling yanqing and generaling and it can be too much sometimes.

— “i find myself running into your sweet nothing.”

— “all that you ever wanted from me was sweet nothing.”

— “and the voices that implore, ‘you should be doing more.’ to you i can admit that i’m just too soft for all of it.”

LIKEEEE. HES JUST TO SOFT FOR ALL OF IT. that’s why you’re his safe space. you never required anything from him and you just love him AND THATS ENOUGH.

he doesn’t need to be a mighty general or a strict master; he can just BE HIMSELF around you. he lets all his walls down and he’s fully vulnerable and YOU LOVE HIM LIKE THAT.

— this isn’t just a one way street btw. he loves you just as much as you love him.

there are no expectations between the two of you. you guys are such a HEALTHY couple. with all the worries in the world your love still prevails and i just think that is very sweet.

[kenobers]

What kind of music do you think the other Batboys listen to? (If you're interested in them ofc)

okay, first of all this is my first ask!! hello!! and it's about music, so extra bonus points to you!! 🌟

second of all, of course i'm interested in the other batboys! i'm working on their spotify wrappeds right now. for anyone’s who interested, here is my spotify!!

these are what i personally think each of them lean towards music wise based on canon and my own headcanons, please don’t stomp on me if you disagree :-)

Dick listens to clown music i really only found one panel of Dick listening to music and it was mostly Original Pilipino Music and mostly ballads, which i love. it also lends itself to Dick being a fan of indie and soft rock, as well very much being a child of the 90s. The Cure and Billy Joel are artists i see him enjoying. i know a lot of people envision him as a pop fan and i think he specifically listens to early rock-pop music from the 70s; think ABBA, the Carpenters, Donna Summer, artists who would mix well with his affection for balladeers. My self indulgent headcanon is that he's a huge Fleetwood Mac and Mavis Staples fan. i think it's a legal obligation to have an appreciation for grunge to be part of the batfam, but i think he sticks with the basics.

Jason canonically likes Slipknot, Lacuna Coil and Poison Idea (which i forgot to include on his spotify wrapped, oops). however, given his background, his continued interest in being connected to the streets of a large east coast city and the fact that we know he loves good writing, he's definitely a 90s east coast hip-hop guy. i really envision him being a huge Wu-Tang Clan fan (as we should all be) and DMX wrote his theme song Where The Hood At. both the metal/punk and hip-hop genres have heavily political roots and the flaws of political systems are a common theme, which is something he’d appreciate. however, i think Jason's criteria for adding a song to his spotify is if it's good. he's not a snob, he just likes his music to be loud and have good lyricism. he likes to be able to relate to it, whereas Dick would be more about the vibe. i love the idea that he's into Jack Johnson when he wants a softer sound. he also gives me major Artic Monkeys vibes.

Tim canonically likes The Clash, Green Day (i think this is another one they all have in common) and i believe Oasis. so one could comfortably deduce that he's into punk rock, early alternative and brit pop (which makes sense, these all tend to go hand-in-hand). i think he would be fond of alternative and indie, like i think he would dig Steve Lacy and Frank Ocean (he's also a bisexual man in his late teens/early twenties who's heavily online, so i feel like it's also a fairly safe bet that he listens to Frank and probably Tyler too). i think he goes through strong phases of certain artists/genres. i think, like Jason, he likes to be able to relate to his music, but he’s also a bit of a music snob.

Steph's most streamed artist is Mucous Membrane. i get strong punk rock, punk pop vibes from her. she likes anything she can scream along to. My Chemical Romance, Paramore, Avril Lavigne, Pierce The Veil, Hollywood Undead. she definitely had a very strong Panic! At The Disco era. she's got a soft spot for Megadeath too. but i think she’s also more than capable (and willing) to scream along to some bubbly pop music too.

Duke has been seen singing The Man on The Flying Trapeze by Spike Jones. granted, this is a fairly well known song and it had a specific context, but i also kind of love the idea that Duke listens to jazz, like also has a lot of Chet Baker and Billie Holiday saved. that’s his time-to-lock-in music. then i could also see him digging a genre that samples a lot of these artists, like r&b and hip-hop. i see Kendrick Lamar pop up on a lot of Duke playlists and i’m inclined to agree. i’d also add Jay-Z to the mix. a good chunk of his spotify wrapped is stuff he plays to get hyped up, which can vary quite a bit. there’s some Fall Out Boy, Chase Atlantic, Rihanna and some classic rock. i think he also daydreams to Holding Out for A Hero quite a bit as well.

honestly, i feel like Cass pulls the most from everyone else’s playlists. i would say that she’s family spotify stalker, but frankly i feel like she uses youtube music. anyways, her personal tastes would lean more towards the sad girl side; Halsey, Mitski, Phoebe Bridgers, Mazzy Star. maybe Penelope Scott and Grimes - i could see her vibing with the combination of the sad girl feel and a unique sort of sound. thanks to Jason, she also digs System of A Down. for Cass especially music is an emotional outlet, so i think she’d be drawn to more emotional stuff. that said, she’s definitely an ABBA girl.

i see people try to argue that Jason would listen to musicals, but if anyone is the secret theater kid, it’s for sure Damian. he likes the drama and the flair of a megamusical and as such, a couple of songs from The Phantom of The Opera make their way onto his playlist (he secretly relates to certain aspects of the storyline but he won’t say that part out loud). he’s a musician himself so it’s not hard to imagine him enjoying someone as genius as Sondheim, although i imagine he’s very picky about which cast albums/recordings he spins. he listens to a lot of classic music, with a special appreciation for Bach as he’s more or less the violin king. but Beethoven’s got a little more flair. i think he also has a playlist of songs he picked up from his siblings and Superboy

i think they all share an appreciation for Nirvana, The Pixies, The Spice Girls and A Tribe Called Quest.

and i do think The Spice Girls comes strongly from Dick’s influence.

what do y’all think they listen to?

[aldryrththerainbowheart]

Through the fire and brimstone

Fandom: Berserk

Tags: Guts x reader, hurt/comfort, sprinkle of soft smut, dash of romance

Note: As I was writing SFW alphabet for Guts an idea came up to me while filling in one letter. It got so long that it deserved its own fic. I'm honestly surprised by the quality. This is the last thing I'll write for Berserk because I have dozens of other writing projects, as well as life outside of Tumblr. Consider this Aldryth's swan song to Guts.

By the way, I listened to this while writing this, if anyone's into that.

The last rays of the sun fell over Midland as the Black Swordsman settles for another sleepless night. With a handful of loyal companions in tow, including their healer. Said medic was rather displeased with the swordsman, for the man had thrown himself carelessly towards death yet again. Proof of that was countless new wounds marring his body. When he could walk no more, the group settled at the place he collapsed for the night.

One of the apostles was dead. You watched Guts skillet them with your own eyes. He stood over their corpse as he breathed raggedly, trying to modulate the aftereffects of his berserker armor. You knew he was badly injured, even with the armor in the way of your sight. You didn’t need it, your years of experience taught you many secrets of the human body, healthy or injured. However, you didn’t press for answers, knowing that the swordsman would only push you away. It truly got on your nerves sometimes and made you wonder why you traveled with him if he’s gonna push you away all the time. Especially since it was he who insisted you’ll join them in the first place.

Only when he could not stand on his feet anymore, you were allowed to work on him in relative peace. Propped up against a tree hidden from others a few feet away, half-conscious, half-awake, Guts resembled an autopsy examination rather than a person. Under your skilled hands, gashes closed, tendons joined back together and cells regenerated at rapid speed. Truth be told, your abilities could not be as successful were you not dabbled in magicks.

As you tend to him in silence, you noticed that his hands, laying limply over his thighs, were shaking. You looked up to search his face, desperately trying to mask the fear that settled over your heart. When he noticed you staring Guts croaked “I…I can’t stop them.” At that point, the knot in your stomach was tighter than a clenched fist. You knew his usual reaction to acts of sympathy…and yet. You took his trembling hands in yours and firmly hold them in place, as you pressed your forehead to his and gently prompted him to follow your breaths. Once he stopped shaking, you leaned away only for Guts to cage you in his arms, squeezing you painfully. You choked on your breath, trying to let enough air into your lungs but not to startle him into letting you go. You didn’t know what to do, whether to hug him back and whisper some words of encouragement or simply remain in his arms without moving. Understanding Guts was…difficult. He didn’t react to intimacy and kinship the way other people did, and the last thing you wanted was to startle him. He was like a cornered animal at times. Still, you need to do something. You squeezed him back with all your strength, letting a few more strings of healing magick seep into his skin if nothing more than to just comfort him. As you propped your chin on his shoulder, you whispered reverently in his ear.

“I’ll follow you through fire and brimstone. Whatever it is, we’re gonna get through this together.”

And you would. Together, you’ll stop this madness, no matter what it takes. You followed Guts for this reason, that and a secret part of you wanted to stay close to him, even if it would just so he lives another day.

There was a beat of silence after you said that. The next thing you know is a feeling of impossibly soft plush lips pressing desperately against yours. The hands that were tightly wrapped around you roamed your body, clutching feverishly as if to assure themselves all of your body parts stayed in place. For a moment you were so startled by the kiss, the warmth, and the softness. You allowed yourself thoughtlessly to go limp in his embrace and delve into the kiss. Tongue tentatively peeking out to touch his. Guts groaned helplessly as he pressed you on the moss-covered forest floor. Your hands ran over the expanse of corded muscle until they settled on his stomach, where you felt something warm and sticky against your fingertips.

His wounds have opened.

The moment it dawns on you, you tear your mouth away from his and try to push him away. Guts, displeased by the interruption, only lifts himself on his arms, unwilling to go any further. With guilt laced voice, you urge him to stop, else he gets more injured. He looks down at the reddening bandages and lets out a silent curse as you heal them once more.

He moved his face towards you once more, aiming for a kiss. You stopped him with a finger on his lips. “No strenuous exercise, or you’ll get even more hurt. I you know I-Ah...” Guts stopped your chiding with a light nip on your fingertip. Peering at you with dark glint in his eyes.

“I want you.” He whispered with a deep timbre in his voice, tugging at the neckline of your top and bending to kiss your neck. “Here. Now. I need you.”

I love you.

The thought moved through his mind, and Guts fought the instinct to drive it away. He didn’t say it alound, but he didn’t chase it down and squashed it, either.

“Guts, I…” Despite your nagging tone, you let your head roll to the side, giving him more room to nibble at your earlobe.

He was pushed away from your warmth once more. “I’m responsible for this party’s health Guts, I threaten your health for romp in the woods.”

Heet his head fall back against the tree bark.

“So…” Your fingers ran over his bandaged chest until they reached his breastbone and your eyes met his, “…we’ll have to be very careful.”

He can be gentle, he can be very gentle. Just let him hold you, hide inside your body for a while. Guts reached for you.

You held that hand against his solar and pushed him, gently but firmly, back against the bed of moss. “I'm the one who's going to be careful.”

“You dinna have to.” Guts protested as you crawled over him and settled on his lap, with your thighs caging him.

You pinned him down with your arms, “I'm going to do everything. And you must lie there and take it.”

There was nothing in the world that came less naturally to Guts than reclining on a cloud-soft moss bed and allowing someone else to do everything. Much less someone he'd come to treasure and protect.

But part of him liked the idea.

Liked it very, very much.

[lunarwritesthings]

Tears Are Natural

Paring: Husband!Gerard x Gn!Reader

Fandom: My Chemical Romance

Request: Yes, by anon

Summary: Gerard has an extremely rough day but the reader is there to comfort him.

Prompts: #34 "You look like you could use a hug.", #31 "Just breathe.", #35 "Let it all out...I'm here for you.", #32 "I'm okay, you're okay, we're okay."(they are used in that order.)

Note: Husband Gee because I feel like he's an amazing, adorable husband. also, I hope Gerard anon likes this :)

Life. Everyone has experienced it, but for some, it was easy. For others, it was quite the opposite. Having a lot of ups and downs. For one Gerard Way, life had a lot of ups and downs.

A few of the ups were well-known. Those being his brother and two best friends, the band, and the fans. A lesser known up, due to mutual agreement was you. You were one of if not the best up in Gerard's life. Now that doesn't mean his life didn't have downs.

That leads to the current day. It was a day that was not at all going well for Gerard. Gerard was well aware that the day was not going to be a good one. How? He simply knew by the way he woke up with no real energy to do much.

Now, of course, Gerard tried to push it aside and tried to be productive. He had comics and songs he needed to work on, but he was not in the best mood to write. Mental health is a very normal thing and something Gee has openly talked about struggling with. That doesn't mean he'll always talk when it's affecting him and his day.

You always made sure Gee need you were there for him regardless of what he might need. You never minded calming his worries and comforting him. It was just hard to do this when at times Gee could be stubborn and put himself into his work. Now he never really liked the work he did on a bad day and would end up redoing another day anyway.

You had a feeling something was off with Gee. Yes, he was a quiet person but he'd still say good morning and see if you had any plans. Simply but it was Gee's way of showing he cared about your morning and day even if he wasn't always awake enough to process what you were saying.

Another and probably the biggest sign was him going to his office and locking himself in there. Gee only did that when he was having an off day and "didn't want to make you deal with it" as he would say, you would always tell him you had no problem being there even if it was just as a shoulder to cry on.

As the day when on Gerard was getting more stressed, anxious, and overworked. Gerard was trying to put more energy than he had into his work but it wasn't going well which only adds to his day. Gee had no idea how much time had passed nor knew how long he'd been sitting in his office staring at a half-drawn comic page.

Another thing Gerard didn't realize was the panic attack that was slowly coming. He didn't realize what had been going on until he heard the office door open. Standing there leaning against the door was you. Gee was definitely not prepared for what you were about to say.

"You look like you could use a hug." It was said with a knowing look. Gee sighed and nodded he could deny his feelings any longer. Gee didn't even realize that he was starting to panic until you had said "Just breathe." Normally Gerard would unknowingly say everything when this happened how he had tried to pretend that he was okay longer than normal so trying to talk and think about everything made him more stressed.

Everything Gerard was feeling hit him in one big wave, and all he could do was break down and all you could do is hug him. It comforted Gerard to hear you being accepting of it. "Let it all out...I'm here for you." A simple sentence that brought a lot of comfort to Gerard.

Once Gerard had calmed down quite a bit you pulled him away from the hug slightly and took any worry left in his mind away by telling him "I'm okay, you're okay, we're okay." It was something that he truly needed to hear.

You had managed to get him out of his office and back to the bedroom where you told him to get comfortable while you grabbed his favorite food and drinks. When you got back to the bedroom the first thing you saw was Gee cuddling into the blanket, clearly waiting for you.

After setting when you had brought to the room on the bedside table you laid down next to Gerard who immediately cuddled into your side. It was obvious that Gee was tired, so you played with his hair knowing it would make him fall asleep and it did. At the end of the day, all that truly matted was tomorrow was a new and fresh start.

[vemaro]

under these circumstances

[PART 1]

Link to PART 2!

Summary : Astarion got roped in by the tieflings to come and see their former leader. And by roped in, Karlach literally dragged him up from the Underdark. Against his will. It’s not that he doesn’t want to see Tav. Of course he wants to see her. He wishes she never left his sight. Astarion just has absolutely no desire to see the woman he’s madly in love with living a lavish life with someone else.

Pairing: Astarion x Tav (female Tav) // also minor Karlach x Dammon

Word Count: ~ 1120

Notes: I was going to write out a whole spiel to give context, but I’m suddenly feeling lazy. Fair warning, this is a super elaborate, highly specific AU I came up with a week ago. It’s been a brainworm (hah) in my head ever since. It’s canon-divergent, at least when it pertains to the romance with Astarion. But also Karlach’s heart. They pull a deus ex machina and she doesn’t have to stay in Avernus because reasons. Tav needs their Mama K.

My Tav’s name is Robyn, but I switched it to Tav when posting. I don’t go too much into detail about appearance so feel free to imagine your own character in her place. Though, I mention she a druid a few times, and she has heterochromia. Apologies if this is makes absolutely no sense. I haven’t written anything in a long time. And this is my first time posting here. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I’m dying to talk to someone about this.

Also, I do have a second part I plan to post in the next couple of days.

Enjoy (:

…

Tav starts backing out of the room. “Wait right here. I’ll fetch Callum. He’ll be thrilled to see you.”

As soon as her back is turned, she sighs. Thank the gods that Terrick has gone on another of his business trips. While her husband and old travel companions are civil (mostly), there is a stifling tension in the air whenever a friend pops in and Terrick is home. On one hand, Tav’s the same person she’s always been; the optimistic, fun loving druid who became the defacto leader of their merry band of misfits. Now though, she’s part of the highly respected Solariz clan, a noble family who holds a large influence within Baldur’s Gate. And a Solariz must act as such. She must mind her manners, dress in a way that befits her status, and worst of all, not go gallivanting up and down the Sword Coast looking for adventure. At least whenever Terrick isn’t around, she can let loose a little. Thankfully, her husband isn’t around too often.

Instead of walking straight through her son’s open bedroom door, Tav stops just outside and leans on the wall. She’s fighting back laughter because her day’s been made, but her son's month is about to get better. Tav loudly clears her throat and holds her hand up to project. “Oh, Callum,” she says in a sing-song voice. “Guess who’s here to see you.”

There’s a gasp from inside the room, followed by a thump, then followed by the sound of socked feet racing towards the door. The little boy spots his mother hiding behind the wall immediately and starts hopping up and down. “Who, Mama? Who’s here?”

She uses her mismatched eyes to point down the hallway. “Go look in the kitchen. They’re waiting for you.”

“Okay!” And he’s off.

Tav lets out a soft laugh. She loves that boy more than she’s loved anyone before, blood relations be damned. Finding him was the single greatest adventure of her life and she’s never, not once regretted taking him in, especially with moments like this, when he’s so happy. When they’re both so happy. Tav had no idea a part of her found family was missing until coming across Callum.

Speaking of found family …

“Karlach!”

When Tav reenters the kitchen, her red tiefling companion is kneeling down with her arms thrown out, sporting the biggest grin from pointy ear to pointy ear. “There’s my favorite little soldier!” Callum races towards her, throwing open his own arms as he jumps. Karlach pretends to almost fall over when she catches him. “Oh my gods, kiddo. Have you gotten bigger since I last saw you?”

Callum buries his face in her neck, soaking up as much of the barbarian's warmth as he can. “I missed you!” he exclaims into her shirt collar.

Karlach swings side to side, squeezing him tighter (but not too tight). “I missed you too, Callum. Been taking care of your mum, yeah?”

He pulls away and nods vehemently, making his blue curls bounce with the movement. “Yeah! I protect Mama from the scary monsters!”

Karlach ruffles his hair. “Good job, Callum.”

The second visitor slides in behind his partner. “On the subject of protection, I’ve got a little something for you.”

“Hi, Dammon! I missed you!”

Dammon, too, ruffles Callum’s blue locks. “Missed you too, kid.” The blacksmith reaches into his satchel and pulls out something wrapped in a cloth. Callum automatically leans forward out of curiosity, letting go of Karlach altogether. “Maybe you could use this to fend off those scary monsters.”

“What is it?” he asks.

Dammon removes the the cloth and crouches down to the Callum’s level. “Why, a sword, of course.” Karlach and Tav give a chorus of oohs and ahs. “The perfect weapon for a warrior of your esteemed caliber.”

Callum flaps his hands, jumping up and down, excitement radiating off him in waves. “A real sword?” he shouts. “For me?”

“If your mum will allow it.”

Callum whirls around, clasping his hands close to his cheek and brown eyes wide, a lethal combination meant to weaken the heart of their target. “Mama! Can I? Can I have the sword? Please?”

It doesn’t take a trained eye to know the weapon is fake. It’s made of wood and the blade is painted silver. The hilt’s adorned with dyed twine and a few faux gems for embellishment. To a small child, this is as real as it gets. Tav walks over and cards her fingers through his already messy hair, a scrutinizing pout adorning her face. “I don’t know,” she sighs. “Swords are very dangerous.”

Four year olds are not above begging. “Please, Mama! Puh-lease! ”

It’s fake, of course she’s planning to let him keep the gift. Tav still acts as if she’s thinking it over. “I suppose,” she says, dragging out the words. “As long as you say thank you to Dammon for making it.”

Callum whoops. “Yay!” Then he faces the tieflings again. “Thank you, Dammon!”

Dammon looks up to Tav and winks. She winks back. The hyperactive child quickly recaptures their attention by bouncing yet again. “Alright then.” Dammon then gets down on one knee and bows his head while holding out the wooden sword. “It was my deepest honor and pleasure, Sir Callum.”

Oh, Callum is eating this up. The newly minted knight looks back at his mother one more time, making sure he still has permission. A quick, encouraging nod from Tav lets him know he’s good to go. Callum gingerly reaches for the sword and takes it into his hands. “Wow …” he whispers.

“What do you think of the sword, soldier?” Karlach asks.

Words cannot properly express what Callum is thinking. He’s barely four years old after all. So Callum takes the sword by the hilt and holds it high above his head, shouting, “I have a sword!”

“Yes, you do,” Dammon agrees.

Karlach jumps back into her feet. “Hey! Let’s say you and I have a spar in the courtyard later, yeah?”

“Yeah!” With that, Callum starts showing off his swordsman skills, slashing and jabbing in a way only a child could. He even provides the sound effects. Tab, Karlach, and Dammon laugh along at his antics.

A scoff from the third and final visitor has everyone looking in his direction. “Wyll had better watch out,” croons a familiar voice. Tav digs her finger nails into her palms. “Our little bird here may be coming for his title as the Blade of Frontiers.”

If they thought the boy was excited at the previous company, they are immediately proven wrong. Callum’s smile shines so big and so bright, the sun may turn green with envy. It’s almost too bright for the pale elf. “Asty!” he cries.

“Hello, dear.”

Thanks for reading!!!

[secret-smut-sideblog]

The Lamb

Lavellan × Blackwall

PG-13 - mutual longing, crossed signals, tenderness, battle, explicit violence, drug use (sort of), self-sacrifice

The rift set to be closed once and for all, Vella hopes to spend one last night in his arms. The world set to crash down around them, she must finally sleep...

Masterlist, Prev Chapter

-

"I have to ask... what was I like in that dark future you saw?"

I watched you die.

Vella focused her breath even. Going forward like that... it was her personal hell. Her foresight made manifest around her. The whole world burning. Watching him fall. The crack of his head against the stone floor, the light gone from his eyes.

I saw everything. I couldn't stop it. It was everywhere.

When they returned, she kept her poise just long enough. Doubled over into the snow of Haven's forest, rocking on hands and knees, wailing into her palm.

"You fought till your last breath. You gave everything. Your men would have been proud."

Blackwall paused, seeming to consider her praise.

"Then I was worth something in the end. Thank you."

"You're worth something now, Blackwall." She nudged his calf with her foot. The shingles under her thighs shifting slightly.

"Am I?" He hushed, looking out over the low sun settling on Haven. The bells of the chantry hung witness behind them.

"I think so." She smiled. Looping her pinky over his. "My perspective must count for something."

"You're... it means everything." He turned to her. Eyes heavy with adoration. But trepidation still hung noose from his words.

She knocked her shoulder into his playfully.

"I'm something, that's for sure. Bad news, usually."

She smiled sadly, retreating her pinky from his. She ached for him, but he had set up his boundary, and she would honor it. If nothing else, she could give him that.

"You were smart to get out when you did. I have nothing to offer you, old man. My future is... well, it's not something you write in romance novels."

"But I'm happy to be here now." She sighed, looking out over their small world. Letting her feet swim slowly. "This is good."

Something was coming.

She could avoid filling her connection to her god. Keep herself awake until dawn. Walk endless circles. But she could still feel it.

Something was coming.

"You should get some rest. I'll come down soon, okay?" She stood, then paused. Leaning down, she kissed his brow. Silently transmitting her thoughts to him.

All I want is you. Maybe in the next life.

"Don't wait up." She whispered, his wide eyes a siren song.

Taking the ledge of the roof in her fingers, she dropped down before he could stop her. She didn't know if she could let go if he stopped her. But she couldn't imagine him being so cruel.

They were from too different of worlds. He could see that. Even without knowing the madness set to hang her from the family tree, she was Dalish. What future could he want with her?

She shook her head. Better to leave him to someone more suited. Maybe Josephine, she seemed to glance at him with the same furtive blush. Yes, Josephine would be lovely.

Like all things, she had to let him go. The ache she carried would not bury her.

Something was coming, and she had to prepare.

-

Blackwall sat with his head in his hands. Pressing the heels of his palms into the ridge of his eyes.

The ache for her was eating him alive.

That she, somehow, thought she wasn't enough for him made him nauseous with guilt. How could she be anything less than his whole world?

Maker, she's an angel. Anyone could see. How could she not see?

He willed the threatening tears to retreat.

How had he been fool enough to let her go?

The door to the stables hushed open.

They had been sleeping side by side, comforted in each other's presence. Though she usually didn't sneak in until the moon was high above. It endeared him how she would tiptoe around him, no idea how light of a sleeper battle worn years had made him.

He startled, quickly composing with a grunt.

"Vella? I didn't expect you this early."

She rushed inside, falling into his arms with a shaken breath.

He froze, only for a moment, then wrapped deep into her. Falling back into the blanket, pressing his face into the curve of her shoulder.

Maker, she was so warm.

"Thank you..." She breathed, then went slack in his arms. Breathing soft and slow.

She was asleep.

He blinked.

He had always taken the pacing as insomnia. Happy to accompany her in the sweet quiet as she walked. Silence with her felt full, like the quiet he enjoyed on his own.

But now he saw it was something more.

He pulled her over him, taking up her perfect weight. Her leg naturally curled up his hip, head turned on his chest. Slow breath a tide on his throat as she turned up into him. Eyes fluttering with movement under her lids.

He pressed his lips to the crown of her head. Hand gently caressing up and down her back. A peace he had rarely tasted settled heavy over him. Melting so sweet on his tongue.

"I've waited so long for you." He hushed. "Thank you."

She was deep in rest. Only small movements of her head gave any sense of dreaming.

"Where are you, my light?" He whispered, smiling at her.

Her movements quieted. Seeking his hand on his chest, twining it into hers.

"Oh..." He sighed. Heart full and so terribly heavy at once. Focusing to this moment. He could carry this forever. But he was drifting.

Please, just a moment more.

But her tide was too strong. Pulling him out to sea.

-

"Do you remember this, Ghilana?" She smiled at her stag, pressing her clay painted palm to his flank. Adding a dark raven in soot. "Mm, I can't call my clan. Well..."

She painted an eye on his other flank, under Blackwall's shield. "I have that."

Her body went rigid, hissing a breath through clenched teeth.

The sight hadn't been so strong since she was a child. Her mind was five steps ahead already, events playing out behind her eyes that hadn't yet arrived. Too fast to parse, overwhelming her senses.

Ghilana nipped at her thigh.

She went slack again, breath ragged.

"Sorry for this." She sighed, tying bundles of elfroot to his antlers. "I hope the smoke doesn't get in your eyes. But I can't go mad on the battlefield."

She kneeled next to the small fire, breathing in deep from the elfroot there. The tempest quieting just enough.

You're out of time, girl.

She gathered the red clay, pulling under her eyes. Feeling all she needed to feel. Soot over her eyes. It was all here. Clay slicked over her arms. It always was with her.

This was her people. This was all of time. She had been here before.

Hurry. Her father's voice whispered in her ear. They're here.

She took a deep exhale, then pulled her eyes to the mountains.

Taking her mount in one leap, she took off like a shot. Hooves thunder under her. Lighting the elfroot in cupped hands. Coming down from the forest in a burning curtain.

Ghilana leapt over the wall of Haven. She zeroed in on the gate.

There.

The blonde boy entered, Cassandra pulling him inside. Her party gathered, staring up at the approaching army with panicked eyes.

Cole. Templars. Old God.

She leaned down on Ghilana's side, scooping him under his arms. Spinning him behind her. The gallop of her mount an easily pull of momentum. His leg hitched up over and held on tight.

"Get everyone to the chantry! Soldiers, defend the trebuchet line at all costs!"

She took off again, Cole wrapped around her waist.

"How many?" She shouted back to him.

"Too many! You can't defend this place!"

"And their leader?"

"An Elder One! You took his mages!"

"So I did." She sighed, rounding up to the chantry. "Go. We'll hold them off."

Cole dropped off of Ghilana.

Secrets. Help. Rogue.

He stared up at her.

"Your eyes..." He breathed.

She didn't have a looking glass, but she knew the silver glow radiated regardless.

"Don't tell the others. Go, Cole."

He nodded, hurrying inside with the crowd.

She pulled her bow from her back, staring down at the soldiers fighting their way to the trebuchet.

Leaning her head back, she took a deep pull of the smoke.

Show me.

It all appeared to her as she rode. Ghilana's antlers low, ripping men to the ground. She fired down, again and again. Her aim true. It had already happened. She was always here.

Count, girl. You will lose yourself. Take count.

"Three." She hissed under her breath, a man crumpled as an arrow entered his ear.

"Four." An arrow cut across a throat.

She searched the battlefield. Her body all instinct behind her. Where was he?

"Five."

At the Singing Maiden, Blackwall charged forward, slamming his shield into a throng of men. Cutting through them with great swings of his sword.

She smiled. Closing the distance, she fired an arrow straight into the eye of a man trying to rush him. Dropping him in a heap.

Blackwall looked up, his eyes wide.

"Focus, soldier!" She barked, a wide smile on her face.

He smiled back, charging forward again. A war cry ripping from him.

She leapt Ghilana over burning rubble, the trebuchet pulling closer. The hiss of her count all she could hear.

"Thirteen. Fourteen."

Cullen was braced against his shield, sword flung from his hand. Defending the trebuchet with all his might.

Ghilana trampled through the hoarde, antlers cutting them down in great swings. Vella grabbed the last of the burning elfroot, leaping off of his back. The way clear for now.

"Take Ghilana! Go!" She shouted to Cullen.

He snatched his sword and climbed on, Ghilana kneeling for him. Looking at her like the mad thing she was.

"Reinforcements are coming!" He shouted.

"I know! Get the others to the chantry!" She gathered the elfroot into her teeth. The smoke curling into her nose as she fired along the ridge below.

Cullen took off, and she rushed to the wheel.

Steady, focus.

She turned it, seeing the time she had between waves. Feeling how little elfroot she had left on the burn of her lips.

There would be enough time. There would.

A flash of dark.

Blackwall's shield filled behind her, and her panic was gone. She turned back to the wheel.

Almost. Almost.

There.

The trebuchet lifted, swinging out to the mountain. The impact shook the earth as a distant boom filled the air, and the snow began its killing wave. Careening down the side of the mountain, torch light devoured in its hunger.

The cheers of her people filled her ears. The elfroot was spat out as its flame met the wet of her teeth. She closed her eyes. Blackwall gathered her in his arms, burying his face in her hair. She leaned into him, then seized.

Her head was ripped upwards, breath leaving her. Eyes wide on where it was about to be. Gripping his forearm.

"Dragon! Dragon!" She shouted, but it was too late.

A wall of flame took the trebuchet, knocking them back.

He pulled her to her feet, eyes wide. She clenched her eyes shut tightly, another wave of sight forcing her body rigid.

"Chantry! Tunnel!" She shuddered through clenched teeth. Eyes rolled up under fluttered lids.

"The townspeople!" Blackwall urged, lifting her onto his shoulders, taking off in a run.

"Cullen! Cullen has them!"

Her body one tight muscle on his back, she fought the madness eating her. Too much. Too much.

"What's happening?" Cullen shouted, urging people running into the doors.

"I don't know! She's hurt!"

He lowered her against a wall. Her eyes still lost in a flutter. The fever began. There was something in her, and her body wanted it out. She pulled at her armor in delirious yanks.

Blackwall grabbed her arms, his eyes bright with panic.

Solas appeared next to her. Falling to a kneel.

"Breathe." He held a bundle of smoke to her.

She pulled deep into the elfroot, gasping out. Her mind untangling. The blood trickling from her nose an aftershock.

"Breathe, breathe." He soothed, rubbing her back. "You did well, somniari."

Dreamer.

She wanted to laugh.

Her sense returned, lowering her eyes from their call upwards. Breathing in deep steady pulls.

The gathered party licked their wounds around her. Many bodies slumped like hers.

"There's a tunnel behind the wall." She pointed. "It leads out. Take everyone through."

The Chancellor's eyes roved over weakly from his seat against a beam. Smiling in a knowing way.

"He says he's sorry." Cole lowered his eyelids as he went still.

"I know." She sighed, Blackwall lifting her to her feet.

"You must take them. You will get through." She commanded to Cullen. "Take supplies."

"What is that out there?" He urged.

"Ugh!" She seized over, another wave.

Herald. Burn. Bury.

"Cole said it wants only me. It will take this place."

"So our only choice is how spitefully we end this..." He laughed coldly.

She nodded, raising her eyes again. Cupping a wound on her side she didn't even feel. Grateful for the cover.

They can't know.

"Alright, then! With me!" Cullen called.

-

Blackwall turned to her. His angel of death. Bleeding and shaken. A terrifying force to be reckoned, riding into battle on a burning stag. Descending from heaven in the fury of all of her people. Painted in red and black.

Every part of their battle had been her. Cutting through and urging at just the right moments. Ballads would be written and books would be bound.

"Vella, I..." He drew forward.

Her eyes fluttered up into lids again, and he moved forward to catch her. Eyeing the blood pooled between the fingers cupping her side.

But her head fell back as her eyes fully closed, a small sigh pushed through her lips. Smiling as her eyes lowered back to his.

She cupped his cheek in her hand, that relaxed smile sending a crawl of dread up his back.

She stared deep into him. Speaking a soft sentence in Elvish.

"Lathbora viran... ma ghilana mir din'an."

Then she was gone.

He felt her hand pull away and grabbed blindly for it.

"No!" He gasped, grasping at air. She was invisible. She was gone.

Cullen gripped his shoulder.

"We must go!"

"No!" He shouted, panic cutting his throat raw. "No, she's-"

"Blackwall!"

Her stag came to him, already laden with supplies.

"No! Please I-"

But he was pulled along, Cassandra urging forward on his back.

"She gave us a chance, honor that." She urged. "We need you. We need your help."

An all-consuming grief he couldn't hold yet sat swollen behind his chest. She was right. He steeled his will with everything he had and mounted Ghilana. Taking up the front in a tap on his side. Frozen forward in a numb haze.

-

Vella woke in a slump. Rising her eyes as her hand burned. Rolling on her side into a kneel.

The caves stretched out far before her. She focused, but her sight had drained. She was on her own.

Shuffling to feet, she moved through the cold tunnel. Her side ached, but had stopped bleeding. She downed the last health potion she had and felt some vigor return to her.

Two wraiths descended on her in a cistern. She held up her hand reflexively, and a great blast emitted from the mark. Obliterating them entirely.

"That's new." She sighed weakly.

The biting wind came through a tunnel ahead and she followed obediently. The world opened to her vast and white. A swirling static of nothing.

So she had been right.

"I died." She sighed, closing her eyes. "It's over."

Not quite.

The kind voice, from so long ago, filled her head.

She looked out over her purgatory.

"Of course." She laughed.

You know what comes next.

She did.

She began to walk.

~

Next Chapter

[deardiary1899]

ok new ramble (about newsies ocs) today so sit tight inside roosevelt's carriage and enjoy the ride

FIRST, I very much adore the world of newsies and the cast, and I so often think how interesting the story would play out with different roles or new characters--

SECOND, Sue me, but I like x readers, i LOVE x readers, i WRITE x readers and i love ocs and self inserts and If whoever reading this has rummaged through the newsies x reader tag, they'd see that quite often, the reader or oc is a newsie, or, a girlsie for whatever reasons, and, while that's pretty fun, I think that we could all totally have some fun with other types of dynamics and professions!!

I believe that Miss Medda and her theatre deserved to have a bit more lore and connection with the story OUTSIDE of Miss Medda herself. Do the newsies frequent the theatre? Are they friends with any of the singers, dancers, whatnot? Have THEY performed there once? Who's to think that the newsies haven't collaborated with Miss Medda to use her creative resources for activism during the strike (that would be very cool)?

Oh, and nothing gets me giggling, kicking my feet and feeling all giddy than a theatre romance-- Your OC/Reader performing the hell out of the show when they see a certain newsie in the audience? Writing a poem/song based off them, or, hell, for platonic feelings sake, dedicating a play to their strike?

And, hey, what about journalism? What about being Katherine's best friend? If you'd still like your oc/reader to be a newsie, what about for intentions different than "because I had to"/"I felt different"/ or the like? Maybe your oc is a journalist undercover as a newsie to get the latest details? Or, working under Pulitzer to spy on the newsies during their strike (Could lead to many different kinds of conflict, imo)

Maybe some of my examples could be leaning dangerously on the edge of historical inaccuracy, but, truthfully, I honestly don't care much? Might be a bad thing to say, but, so long as it isn't ENTIRELY inaccurate, I, personally, am not too nitpicky about any details!

This is not to say "Stop making your ocs newsies!", but, if you're writing with the idea to diversify or bring something new to the table, deviating from the common stuff is pretty cool. But if you're not, that's cool too, so long as it's not hurting anyone or everyone's having fun :-)

[tender-emotional-music]

Hi, I love your blog!!! It's so tubular to talk to fellow Stranger Things and Byler enthusiasts and you really get the characters. I wanted to ask, when do you think Mike and Will started liking each other, when do you think they realised it, and how oblivious are they to each other's feelings? Also any opinions you have on Mike's sexuality and his feelings for El? I'm aro-spec ace and way too fixated on analysing the platonic/romantic nuances of relationships, and it would be so cool if you could break those down in Mlvn and Byler. Make the answer as long as you like, I could talk about Byler for hours! This blog is totally sweet!!! Oh, any Byler headcanons you have too, sorry for such a long ask, lmao.

Sorry, i haven’t been checking my inbox and completely missed this ask 😭

I think Will has had a crush on Mike pretty much since he can remember, but it’s around s3 that he starts to realise it, with everyone growing up and having to see Mike in a relationship. He represses it throughout the summer, and it’s in s4 that he’s consciously aware and accepts it. Will is still dealing with his own internalised homophobia though, and fully believes that Mike will never reciprocate, hence him giving away his feelings in the painting scene and essentially resigning himself to helping fix Mike and El’s relationship, since he wants them to be happy and thinks this is how that can be accomplished.

Mike is more complicated, but I do believe that he realised he was in love with Will/gay/bi/however you interpret it in the s3 finale. Just the flashing between his and Will’s faces as the van drives off, focusing on him looking back at the Byers house and hugging Karen, and also him looking like he’s having a *realisation* when El says she loves him (while kissing him in front of an open closet with “The First I love you” playing - the song which also plays when Robin comes out to Steve in the episode prior). He’s aware of it then, but I think he seriously represses it and also doesn’t think Will is gay. It’s cool to see him leaning back into his more nerdy interests and being influenced by Eddie to be more carefree in s4 though, since we see him start to shed the idea of being “normal” and conforming (which is a big theme for Karen and Nancy too. That damn Wheeler family 😭)

I’m still torn as to whether I see Mike as bi or gay. Pre-s4 i was firmly in the gay Mike Truther camp, but I can see them going either way and I think there is evidence to support either reading. S1-3 he comes off as possibly being bi, but s4 it seems like he’s been written as gay. Either way, i hope they do it justice, as it will recontextualise his actions and his relationship with El differently depending on what his sexuality actually is.

Regarding El, I do think that he and El have work to do if they want to have a proper friendship after they break up. I don’t think they’re immediately going to fall into being besties, since they don’t share a lot of interests, and we don’t actually see much of their dynamic as friends, since the romance overshadows it. Regardless, they care deeply for each other and I’d like to see them start to make up for lost time and form a friendship.

And finally for headcanons, we know Will gives art to Mike, so I imagine Mike also gives Will little stories and stuff he writes. After the stuff with Vecna is over, i love to think of them starting a comic series together, maybe taking inspiration from their own experiences with the UD and their friends. They’d probably go to the same college too, and would move to a city, but still live a relatively quiet life and maybe adopt a dog. I think Mike would also start to listen to some of Will’s music. We know he calls Should I Stay or Should I Go “that weird song” in s1 and if we take his playlist as canon he seems to personally prefer synth music to rock, but I think he’d probably listen to some of Will’s faves to feel closer to him. They’d both also love 90’s music, and we see that there’s a guitar in Mike’s room in s4 (probs Eddie’s influence) so maybe he’d try to play something for Will.

That’s all I can think of for now, but I hope this is fun to read and I answered everything well enough! Sorry for leaving it so late lol

[anonyhex]

Just a trick of the light?

Okay so this is a fun one--it started with me becoming obsessed with Amalee's English cover of "Idol", the theme song for an anime called Oshi no Ko. (flashing warning, but the video for it is here!)

In the context of the original anime, it's from the viewpoint of a key character that's a teenaged girl in the "pop idol" industry of Japan. Due to her background as a kid that grew up in the foster system because of an uncaring mother, she doesn't have a good understanding of what an actual caring relationship of any sort looks like--so she throws herself into lying about "loving" her fans in the way that idol culture tends to create unhealthy parasocial relationships. She ends up secretly becoming a teen mom, but through her relationship with her kids she slowly begins to understand what it feels like to ACTUALLY love someone. (and then PLOT happens from there but it's a pretty big spoiler, so...yeah.)

...So what does this have to do with BG3?

Well, uh, as I was looping this song over and over again in 2023 (starting before I even knew much about the anime the song is from), I started to pick up on lines that reminded me of Astarion having to fake attraction or affection for people to find prey for Cazador (and later on protection during the game events), and then stumbling into actually loving the person he's in a romance with.

And then I also was reminded of Wyll pretending to be this grand hero despite the much darker things going on privately in his life.

And next thing you know I have essentially an entire animatic to the song plotted out in my head of Astarion seducing Wyll, only to realize how much they're both performing a role and then realizing he has genuine feelings for Wyll.

The PROBLEM is that I've never learned how to draw, but I DO know how to write, so...! I started writing a fic on the idea, and titled it after a line from the song. The basic idea was brief scenes of Astarion and Wyll having to play a role in their previous lives, building up to their eventual meeting and slowly recognizing the people behind the masks they wear. Here's a couple snippets from the first scenes for Astarion and Wyll:

He [Astarion] takes a seat at the bar, leaning back onto an arm to try to emphasize graceful lines, his long legs crossed just so. He orders himself a drink–the cheapest he thinks he can get away with while still seeming like he has good taste–and looks back at the pub, his smile perfectly performed. When a tipsy woman is the first to take the bait, he pretends to not see her at first, and then lets his eyebrows raise and shapes his eyes to look pleasantly surprised. “Oh? And how did I catch the attention of such a beauty?”

[...]

He [Wyll] accepts every request to dance that comes his way and leads his partners along the floor with carefully practiced grace, his touch around their waist gentle and chaste but just enough to maybe endear them to him, if just for the night. By the time he’s dancing with a half-elf partner his feet are starting to hurt, but he disguises it with an easy smile at the end, placing a kiss on their hand that lights up the half-elf’s blue eyes. Well, at least he could make them happy, just for a moment.

so the problem is, uh...I got up to the classic Tiefling Party Scene and...I...don't know how to take it to a conclusion from there. So it's just been sitting here for months, oops. I haven't completely abandoned it but it's sitting on the backburner while I work on stuff I have a stronger idea about!

[fitzrove]

🖤or 💜 or 💛!

(Sorry for taking a bit of time to reply!! I wanted to answer all of them hehehe)

🖤 Black: Do you think about your story when you're not physically writing it? Does it help with plotting scenes, character arcs, etc.?

Yes, always... Most of my stories begin with rotating ideas in my head, so concepts and ideas, even dialogue, will usually have to exist as a starting point before I actually write anything down. And for actual plotting - I really like using outlines and outline almost everything I write, so really it is a thing where I will be thinking about a fic and then a random moment will turn into an outlining moment if I go to write new ideas down :D

💜 Purple: Name one song you're listening to while writing your next/current fanfic. How or why does it help the writing process?

Ahh... I wasn't really listening to anything while writing my most recent fic xD Actually, listening to songs with lyrics while writing can be tricky for me, I prefer to listen to music while doing the aforementioned rotating ideas in my head thing 😁 One EXTREMELY fitting todolf song though is Poison by Alice Cooper... everyone listen right now... don't want to touch you but you're under my skin (deep in) etc

💛 Yellow: Do you ever alter, highlight, or de-emphasize certain canonical traits in a character? If so, why and describe how.

Ahh, this is such an interesting thing to think about!!!!

For something like Tod/Death, every writer has to kind of come up with their own interpretation. We never get insight into what he's thinking (kkog doesn't count that's not canon...), we don't have a clear view of his motivations because of the layers and layers of lies by Lucheni (up to the viewer how many layers there are), all we know is that he's There and there is some sort of deep connection to Elisabeth and, to a lesser extent, Rudolf.

However, the more fic I write, the more I write Tod as somewhat of an extension of Rudolf's personality. The idea really is that he's whatever you want him to be, he taps into all your weaknesses and insecurities and approaches them in a way that will be the most effective on you for the purposes of You Know What. Mirrors etc,,,,, Unfortunately for the kind of Rudolf I usually write, this mostly means that tod is pretty b*sm about it AJSJDJJF. So I guess for Tod I tend to emphasize the sexuality aspect which is a side effect of the kinds of fics I write LOL.

Rudolf, on the other hand... I keep saying his canon personality is "sad, queer and rebellious", he is literally on stage for like 10 minutes and most of it is being gay s*x depressed ajsjdjdj. There's a lot of portrayals to pick from... I think one of the main things I do is try to add historical facts into the mix while keeping the canon meow meow personality. Fic Rudolf usually has noble goals but despairs his life away because the environment makes it impossible to fully pursue or reach them - IRL Rudolf was similar but also fanatically obsessed with hunting I'm told (by stephanie xD) and a raging misogynist. I guess, though, that the way I write him is influenced by the fact that when the fics take place (because of what todolf is...) we're seeing him at his most private and emotionally vulnerable.

Ooh the question also asked "why"... For Tod the "why" is that I just don't really care about the paranormal entity interpretation, I mean I tried my hand at it with my todesengel fic but even with that I tried to make it fit together with the force of nature interpretation and not "god" or "demon" or idk "Satan" etc. I don't like the god or paranormal interpretations, or stuff that leans too heavily into Tod as a "creature", because 1) it would shift the genre of what I'm trying to write - idk I try to go more for toxic historical fiction metaphysical romance or whatever and not for dark fantasy or paranormal romance, 2) it's hostile to religious beliefs, like, it precludes the existence/validity of other god-like entities in this universe and more "atheistic" belief systems like Buddhism. I don't want to base my fics on a take where, for example, the Christian tradition is in a worldbuilding sense "more true" than another religious system. I think that's lazy and lets author bias show through too much - though perhaps I have a different kind of author bias, as someone raised culturally as a member of a pretty hands-off organised religion, but with a cynical attitude towards its impacts on society XD Anyway um yeah to me Tod is usually more like gravity or temperature and not like an actual Dark Angel King Of The Underworld...

As for Rudolf - I just write him according to personal preference and the theme of whatever fic I'm working on at the moment. Part of it is my reading of historical events (heavy emphasis on the "troubled hero, huge loss of potential" line of thinking) and part of it is just what sorts of performances I like best and want to incorporate into my belief system ajajsjdj.