#please the way you got me so invested so quickly my god

[hwanghyunjinenthusiast]

This is the first time I hit the tag limit I think.

ミღ the cake in the back — c. seungcheol x reader

description. cheol is a regular at your bakery, and it's all because his son loves the banana bread you make—at least that's what he tells himself. it also doesn't hurt that you're cute. and polite. and totally someone he'd like to fuck.

genre. smut, fluff tags. rich dilf cheol, bakery owner reader, or4l (f receiving), car s3x, kitchen s3x, pet names (angel), cr3ampi3, aprons ... hehe w/c. 3.8k+ a/n. IGNORE THE TITLE OKAY I THOUGHT IT WAS FUNNY. look i know it's corny and i literally am writing this on a whim but happy father's day

"soobin's not with you today?" your voice is cheery and gentle when you greet your regular.

mr. choi smiles and shakes his head. "shocking, i know," he laughs in that deep and velvety tone that has you bouncing up and down on the balls of your feet out of pure giddiness.

"a pleasant surprise," you reply, putting on some gloves as mr. choi approaches the counter. it's near closing, and it's around that time of day where people usually don't come in as much, so you've been alone and just cleaning up the space yourself. "what can i get you, mr. choi?"

the handsome man chuckles, flicking his wrist as he pushes some hair back, the reflective surface of his wrist watch (that you definitely don't want to know the price of because it might just make you pass out) glinting under your bakery's warm lights. "thought i told you to stop calling me that. seungcheol is much better considering ..." he searches for the words for a moment. "... we see each other so regularly," he concludes.

"i've got to maintain some level of professionalism, don't you agree, mr. choi?" you tease. "the regular, i'm assuming? two banana breads?"

"you already know it."

grinning, you nod and pull up a box. "how's soobin? i haven't seen him or you in a while. i'm starting to miss my favorite customer."

"i'm sure soobin would be flattered to hear that. he's doing well, i couldn't bring him today since he's got a swimming class this evening," seungcheol explains, pulling out his wallet that's donned in some brand name that looks so expensive you don't even know how to pronounce it. you move down the counter grab some of the bread which is on your far left, and he walks down on the other side to match you, keeping up the conversation.

"ah yes. he seems to be around that age to start learning. better now than never, honestly. my younger brother didn't learn until he was older and it did not seem easy," you say with a giggle, bringing out the tongs to grab two small loaves.

seungcheol nods in agreement. "that, and i'm planning on taking the two of us on a vacation spot in a few months ... not sure where yet, but soobin's been wanting to go to a beach location for ages," he tells you, and your heart swells.

the image of soobin and seungcheol, goofing around on a beach send a warm feeling through your body. it's also maybe an added plus that there's a flicker in your mind of what seungcheol would look like in nothing but swim trunks, skin shining from the water under the beaming sun, dark hair splayed across his forehead.

you wonder what he's hiding beneath that plain, beige t-shirt of his. his arms are somewhat exposed, and from just the little bit of muscle that peeks out and flexes when he moves around, you think you can safely assume he's got much more going on in the places where your eyes can't reach.

realizing he's still right in front of you, you blink down hard as an attempt to pull yourself back into reality, eyes flickering up at the handsome man in front of you.

"s-sounds fun," you say honestly, packing the bread and handing it to him over the counter. in this moment, seungcheol catches sight of the apron you've got on. it's light pink and hugs your figure so nicely, he can't help but comment on it.

"new apron, huh?"

shyly, you look down and nod. you hadn't expected him to notice. "uh, yeah. my employees got it for me as a birthday gift, actually."

seungcheol furrows his brows as he hands you his card so you can charge him. "it's cute. was your birthday, um, recent?"

you nod casually, tapping at your machine for a second before handing back his card, trying to ignore the way his comment first comment has your stomach flipping and flopping around. "yeah, it was a few days ago."

"i'm sorry, i didn't know," he says sincerely, causing you to frown.

"hey, don't worry about it. it's not something i expect my customers to know and—"

"let me treat you to something," seungcheol says abruptly, cutting you off mid-sentence. he realizes after that it's a bit rude, but something about the way you brush him off as just a customer makes him feel the need to prove you wrong.

"i—i'm sorry?" you ask, and for a moment seungcheol almost mistakes your confusion for apprehension, but then he drinks in the way you look up at him curiously, lips slightly parted, and he relaxes.

"you're closing soon, right? let me ... treat you to something," he repeats. "a coffee or something, if you don't mind."

"oh, i can't possibly impose like that, especially when you've got to pick up soobin and—"

"i wouldn't be offering if you were imposing. he's getting picked up by my friend anyways—his son and soobin are going to have a play date and stuff and—" he's rambling, seungcheol knows that, but he can't seem to care. "basically what i'm saying is you don't have to worry about that. seriously. wait—not that i'm forcing you. you can totally say no, i just ..." he sighs, "don't want you to say no because you think you'll be imposing. 'cause you won't be."

when you smile brightly up at him, eyes glittering and laugh cheery, a wave of relief washes over seungcheol. "i—thank you for the reassurance. i'd love to get coffee, but i do have around twenty more minutes before closing and i still have some stuff i need to clean up and i'm not sure if you—"

"i'll wait." he pauses, then adds, "and help."

you're a bit apprehensive at first—a customer helping you out with closing? but you're quick to learn that once cheol has his mind set on something, it isn't the easiest to pull him away from it—and right now cheol is determined to treat you, as he put it.

the next forty-five minutes is spent with you directing seungcheol around your bakery. he's a surprisingly fast learner and before you know it, all the pastries are loaded in the back, the dishes are cleaned, your floors are swept, and suddenly you find yourself outside of your shop with the doors locked, standing next to seungcheol who watches with you a clouded expression.

"thank you so much for the help," you say bashfully. "you're already taking me—" is it too soon to say he's taking you out? oh well, what's done is done. "—taking me out. isn't this a little too much?" you joke, wiggling your brows.

seungcheol chuckles and shakes his head, pulling his eyes out of his pocket and twirling around the chain around his fingers. fuck, he has really nice fingers—

seungcheol's voice interrupts your thoughts "do you have a car or—"

"i usually take the bus home," you explain, rocking back and forth on your feet. cheol frowns, but doesn't say anything. maybe he can fix that, but that's an thought for another time as he points at his suv, all black from top to bottom, with tinted windows and full black wheels.

there's a silence that envelopes the two of you when you slip into the passenger seat, placing your work bag on the floor. seungcheol is already in the driver's seat, key stuck in but not turning on the engine just yet.

you glance between the sight of your bakery out the window, and back at seungcheol who already has his gaze on you.

"you're going to have to be transparent with me for a second," seungcheol says seriously, locking eyes with you as you shift your body to face him. "and i want to make sure we're on the same page about ..." about whatever is going to go down.

you bite down on your lip, and even though cheol knows you're doing it absentmindedly, he can't help but feel his pants grow tighter at the way it puffs up when your teeth release it.

"i ... i think you know we're on the same page," you reply shyly, shifting a little in your seat to try and make up for the silence.

"you want this?" cheol clarifies, one eyebrow cocked up.

a feeling of pride swelters in his chest when you reply without hesitation, "i do." and then a bit more quietly, you add, "i, uh, have for a while."

now cheol usually likes to tread lightly; he doesn't want to mess around and is great at keeping his dick in his pants but there's just something about the way you look at him so cutely.

you look at him like you know all the nasty things he wants to do to you, and you bat your eyelashes like you don't care—like you'd let him. like you'd take every damn thing he gives you without a single word of complaint, and it's driving him crazy.

again, cheol is great at keeping his foot on the brake, but then you swipe your tongue over your bottom lip and suddenly he's slamming his feet on the accelerator.

wrapping one hand around your neck, he pulls you to smash his lips onto yours. it's a gentle kiss—tentative, as if you're both testing the waters. pressing against each other as your faces tilt, your hands find purchase in his hair when cheol laps at your bottom lip. that's where it all takes off.

the kiss turns from innocent and sweet to sloppy and fast within a matter of moments and suddenly you're grappling at his arms, his hands are searching for your tits, gripping at the flesh and before you know it, you're being thrown to the back.

seungcheol nearly slams your back down onto the seats, your loose shirt riding up your stomach in the process to reveal the lower half of your bra. "fuck," he mutters, low and under his breath in that raspy sort of way that has your clothes feeling too hot and your cunt too empty.

"seungcheol," you moan, unbuttoning your work pants and shoving them off your legs, along with your panties in one go, leaving your wet cunt open and bare. he doesn't take a moment to shuffle back and bring his face down to be level with your core, eyes looking up at you with some kind of mischievous glint that has your stomach churning.

with a bit of hesitance, he places a soft kiss over your clit, watching you carefully to see how you react. when you whine and arch your back against the leather seats, he figures that that reaction is good enough, and this time lets his tongue out, swiping it against the throbbing bad.

"sweet," he murmurs, lips moving down against your folds. the movement and vibrations send sparks through your core and up your spine, and you shudder at the feeling as one hand flies down to grip at his dark hair. "so fuckin' sweet," he repeats before diving his tongue back, swiping it up and down between your folds.

"ah-h-h, seungcheol—fuck," you whimper when he presses the wet muscle flat against your drooling hole, continue to circle around and tease you. fervently, cheol—to put it bluntly—makes out with your cunt. digging his face in between your legs, his nose brushes against your clit when he adjusts his neck to lap and suck against unexplored areas, leaving you mewling into your arm as you try and sit still for him.

there isn't much room in the back, and to be frank, your limbs are in an uncomfy position, and you can only imagine the strain cheol is feeling, bent over and legs in an awkward position when he holds your hips and pulls you closer so he can smother himself in your pussy. he doesn't seem to mind though, lifting his head every few moments to grin up at you with hazy eyes, glossy lips, and a drenched chin, off-handedly commenting something dirty about how nice you taste, how he could live between your legs, how you're driving him fucking insane.

it's the meticulous flicks of his tongue, the deep and guttural words that escape his honeyed lips, and the girth of his fingers when he finally plunges them into your warm cunt that bring you to your edge. it only takes a few rubs and curls against your aching walls before your shaking, crying out his name as you thrust upwards, holding his face down so you can grind against him.

and he whispers the words, "cum angel," so sweetly—a complete contrast to the way his tongue is scooping up all your arousal—and so you cum like you never have before.

fuck my life, you think to yourself as the waves of your orgasm finally hit you. cheol rides you through the high, and he does it good. so good, you're left breathless when he pulls away from your cunt with a dopey smile and feather light kisses all up your thigh and stomach, and then finally your lips.

"my place?" he asks, stroking your cheek gingerly as you blink up at him. and when you nod hazily, he pats you lightly, helping you back to the passenger seat before helping you slip on your panties and pants back on. this time, when cheol gets back into the driver's seat, he places one hand on the steering wheel, the other secure over your still quivering thigh. "relax angel," he murmurs, and you can't help but burn at the gentle words. this can't be the same man who ate you out like you were damn piece of cake just moments earlier.

the drive is quiet, but not uncomfortable. if anything, you're fucking enthralled. when he stops at a red light, cheol looks over at you and when your eyes meet you can't help but giggle together until you're cheeky, grinning mess by the time you pull up to his house.

parking in the lavish drive way, cheol tells you to hold on for a second, getting out of the car and making his way to your side, to open the door for you.

"i didn't know that this what you meant by coffee," you giggle, stumbling out next to him and letting him wrap an arm around your waist to help you up the steps to his house. it's a beautiful estate, really, but you aren't too focused on admiring the luxury right now—you're much more interested in what's to come between you and cheol.

and you're about to find out soon enough because as soon as he opens the door, lets you in, and closes it behind you, cheol's hands are all over you. with your eyes closed as you two engage in a hot mess of tongue and teeth and lips, your rocking back and forth in his arms, his legs leading to you to some place you're not really aware of until you feel something hard and cool press against your lower back.

"wear the apron," cheol tells you firmly when he pulls away, pressing you against his cold stone counter. you knit your eyebrows together in confusion, but let your bag that's still on your shoulder drop onto the counter, taking out your apron without hesitation.

it's now that you realize you're in his kitchen. if you weren't in such a ... intimate setting, you would have admired the design, the appliances—all of it. perhaps you'd even wonder what it's like to bake in here, cooking up soobin's favorite banana bread with cheol by your side and—you save those thoughts for another time.

"w-why?" you murmur in response to cheol's request, as you pull the apron out, pulling the pink strap over your head, tying it behind your back as the ache between your legs begins to creep up on you again. cheol's big hands find purchase on your hips again, holding down you down with a firm grip as he turns you around and pushes your back down.

"'cause," he grunts out, and you nearly moan when you hear the sound of his belt unbuckling and fabric rustling as he shoves his pants and boxers down. it hardly takes a second before his hands are at the hem of your own pants, yanking them down and giving you a moment so you can step out of them.

you wiggle your ass around for a second, turning to look back at cheol with pleading eyes and ask him to just fuck you already, but then he locks a hand under your jaw, cupping the underside of your face and pulling it up so your back arches into his touch. you can feel the angry, hard head of his cock prodding against the plush of your ass and the feeling of him brush against you has you whining.

"patience, angel," he coos, pressing his face next to the shell of your ear and placing a soft kiss on the crown of your head before easing his way through your folds. you can't even see him but you just know he's big—fat length rubbing up and down your folds as he coats himself in your arousal as you whisper incoherent pleas for more.

"cheolie ..." the nickname slips from your lips with out as much as a brainless thought but it has cheol's head rewiring.

"fuck, say that again," he demands, snaking the hand that's not holding your face down your back until it's gripping the cute little bow of your apron.

you hum as you feel him tugging at the fabric, jerking your body backwards and pushing your cunt harder against him, the fat tip brushing against your sensitive clit. "cheolie!" you mewl again, and you're really not expecting the way he jams his cock into you in one go. not that you're complaining of course.

'cause how could you complain when he's stretching you out so nicely? when his cock is so long it's already hitting kissing your cervix and hitting spots inside of you that you didn't even think were possible to reach? when he's so deep that his balls are pressed against your burning core and his pelvis is flush against your ass?

"you feel so good," cheol moans, and you squeeze around him even tighter when you hear the low, gruff words escape his lips. "this pussy was made for me, huh?" he breathes out with a chuckle, as he pulls out halfway before pulling the strings of the apron so your core meets him halfway, slamming his cock back into you.

"oh god," you moan loudly, eyes rolling to the back of your head as you try and swivel your hips against his for some added stimulation.

"gonna think abt this every time you wear this, won't you?" cheol grunts, twisting his fingers around the bow in the back so he hold onto it tighter.

the thought runs through your fucked out mind for a moment; you're gonna have to walk into work tomorrow, and if you're wearing the apron, you'll have to sit through the day knowing that you had cheol's cock buried inside of you under this same fabric—if you aren't wearing it, you'll have to come up with an excuse for your lovely employees as to why you're not wearing their precious gift.

which option you're going to go with, though, is swept from your mind when cheol sticks a finger into your mouth and presses down on your tongue as he fucks into you harder.

what a moment, you think. getting railed on the counter of a man who you always thought was out of reach. your insides feel like jelly as his fat cock runs against your walls, veins and curves pressing and dragging through you as heat envelopes you.

and as his thrusts increase in force, you start to realize that cheol is nothing if he is not relentless. just when you think you've whimpered his name so much you think you might lose your voice, he's ramming into you harder, punching the air right out of your lungs as broken moans and squeaks that have him losing his damn mind.

"what a fuckin' angel, creaming me cock so well," he praises, yanking you back and forth at an unforgiving pace to match his calculated thrusts. you feel like you're being thrown around in the best way possible, body throttling every time his hips crash against your ass and cause you to lurch forward and arch your back even more.

and as he goes on, the rub of his cock against you, the press of his balls against your clit, his hand in your mouth and pressing against your jaw—it's all so much and so fast and so good until you're shaking and thrashing in his hold.

"mmf—cheolie, wan' cum," you choke out when you feel his cock twitch inside of you.

"yeah? my pretty angel's gon' cum on my cock?"

"yeah-huh," you answer dazedly, body jerking back and forth as his hips snap more haphazardly now, but still hitting that one sweet spot that has your vision going bleary. "can i cum, cheolie?"

and you ask him so fucking sweetly, he can't hold it in anymore, dazedly grunting out something along the lines of, "yeah, angel, cum f'me," before he spills his hot seed inside of you. the sensation of his cum painting your walls white is the final thing you need before joining cheol with your own orgasm, clenching around him so tightly that it has him gripping down on your hips in a way that you know you'll have bruises tomorrow. not that you mind.

how could you, when you just had the most mind blowing orgasm of your life with the hottest guy you've ever met. as you twitch against him, cheol finally pulls himself out and you whimper lowly at the feeling of being empty even though you know you'd probably pass out if you had his dick in you any longer.

gently, cheol strokes your back and caresses the taught muscles, untying the apron that quite literally had you in a chokehold, letting it fall from your figure. "'m sorry," he murmurs into your neck, placing a soft kiss on your shoulder, "was i too rough?"

"n-no," you say, face burning when you realize just how croaky and fucked your voice has become. cheol only laughs at you as you dig your face into your hands as you mumble bashfully, "it was ... great." you're slightly embarrassed, yes, but when you catch the look of endearment on cheol's face, you start to think twice.

as you both attempt to even out your breaths, cheol looks down at you panting against the counter, cum spilling out of your fluttering folds. vaguely, he wonders what you'll look like in a bikini in the bahamas. huh, he thinks, maybe he'll have to ask soobin if it's okay to bring an extra certain someone with them on their vacation this summer.

a/n. how i managed to get this out in one day i don't know. the cheol effect i guess. anyways, hope u enjoyed!

tags. @xcynthiaaa @synthetickitsune @leejihoonownsmyheart @dahliatopia @gyuswhore @hoeforcheol @5xiang @hajimelvr @miriamxsworld @blinkjunhui @lixiel0ver @josefines-things @mimisxs @kawennote09 @bbyjjunie @rubyreduji @marzmeltdown @todorokiskitten (strikethrough could not be tagged)

[physalian]

“Likable” vs “Compelling” Protagonists

Protagonist does not mean “good guy” it means “the person the story is about”.

Antagonist does not mean “bad guy” it means “person in opposition to the protagonist”.

We know this, yes?

So when I’m talking about “likable” protagonists I do not mean that your MC has to be witty, funny, charming, etc—they have to be compelling.

I didn’t much care for Death Note, I thought Light got away with way too much without consequences for his actions, but he was very much the villain and the protagonist. He was an arrogant narcissist with a god complex and you watched the show not to see him win, but to see how badly he would eventually lose.

This was because, despite my dislike of his story, Light was a compelling character. You don’t necessarily agree with his motivations, but you do understand why he does what he does and why he believes what he does about himself and his world.

In contrast, one of my favorite anime is Code Geass. Lelouch (who is often compared to Light) is *constantly* getting kicked in the ass by his own hubris. He's arrogant as well, but he makes mistakes everywhere and suffers if not immediate comeuppance, then drastic consequences later down the line. Which, to me, made a far more compelling character than someone like Light playing with cheat codes.

Most of the time, “likable” and “compelling” go hand in hand, because your protagonist is the “good guy” that we’re supposed to root for.

So one of the worst mistakes I think you can make is writing a hero who just doesn’t want to be here.

—

I recently read a story where MC needed to win a competition, baseline unsponsored underdog story, and everyone loves an underdog. The problem was the MC’s attitude. Nothing pleased them and in their internal monologue, nothing was good enough and everyone else was the problem. They actually hate competitions and can’t wait for this to be over…even though no one forced them into it with a gun to their head. They hate all their competitors for behavior they themself exhibit. They hate their lone sponsor for being a sleezeball, and yet, chose to enter a voluntary competition, knowing this sponsor’s behavior, and still blaming the sponsor for their problems.

The entire time I was reading all I kept thinking was, “Then go home, bitch!”

This was not a high-stakes competition, and the MC didn’t have dire enough circumstances for the reader to believe this was a "life-or-death, even if it sucks, MC has to win," type situation. Not like Hunger Games. This was all completely voluntary.

So I started wondering if the author meant the MC to be the villain with all these personality flaws, but they’re still the underdog with no wins under their belt to support their level of entitled arrogance and no notable skills that make them inherently better than the competition.

So I was rooting for the MC to lose, and I don’t think I was supposed to. Even if I was, the mixup between “underdog hero” and “catty bitchy villain” was too confusing for too much of the story. MC didn't have to be here, didn't want to be here, so... why was MC here?

—

Some suggestions for compelling motivations for your protagonist boils down to this:

Define as quickly as you can these three things for your protagonist of any walk:

What the protagonist wants

How the protagonist plans to get it

And what’s in their way

Specify the stakes, if not physical, then personal. It doesn’t have to be life-or-death, but if they’re entering a risky situation, whatever it is has to be extremely important to them. Luca doesn’t have as high stakes as, say, Toy Story 3 but the moped race is important to the heroes, thus a compelling motivation.

Make this a journey they actually want to be on. Even if it’s grimdark or horror, if your hero is complaining the entire time and wanting to go home, yet plowing forward anyway because the plot’s dragging them on a leash, your audience will be as invested in the story as that character. If they don’t actually have the commitment to see their quest through, why should the audience care?

Alternatively, make this a journey they cannot afford to walk away from. Whether that be pressure from without or within. Frodo didn’t have to take the One Ring to Mordor. He chose to, because it was, in his mind, the right thing to do. He suffered his entire journey with the Ring and got homesick and depressed and discouraged, but he never called his own journey stupid and dumb. He could have put the Ring down and walked away or given it to somebody else, but he chose to carry on, because that’s who he is.

Even reluctant chosen ones have an ulterior reason for remaining in the story. Your long-lost princess might not want the throne being thrust upon her, but she’s chasing something else that accepting the throne and going along with the plot will give her. Maybe it’s power, respect, vengeance, money, protection, connections. So she’ll tolerate the nonsense so long as it still gets her what she wants and her struggle might be trying to not let herself get corrupted by the allure of politics and “the game”. Or, she's playing along merely to stay alive and actively trying to escape and return to her simpler life.

Popular example: Percy Jackson is a reluctant chosen one throughout his entire story in every book, even Last Olympian where he insists that he's the unknown prophecy child. In The Lightning Thief he doesn’t give a damn about the quest for the Master Bolt, he’s there to get his mom back, and cooperating with the quest will give him the means to achieve his goal, and along the way, finds that he doesn’t quite hate it as much as he thought he would.

—

So. Yeah. In no way, shape, or form does your protagonist have to be “likable”. If someone tells you they aren’t, they probably mean that your protagonist is contradictory, or lacks compelling motivation and drive, and lacks a clear goal or aspiration that will define their story. Or, they lack drive to even participate in the story at all.

Or they simply mean that your charcater, who you intend to be likeable, has a nasty flaw that would turn readers off, but a beta should be able to tell you that one easily. If they can't come up with a solid reason why your charcater is unlikable, it's probably a motivation issue.

The earliest draft of a WIP that shall never see the light of day had my protagonist sent on a glorified space field trip by her parents, and wasn’t happy to be there. This not only made her unlikable, but also uncompelling. She didn’t want to participate in the plot and only did it to hold up her end of the deal, she wasn’t excited about the actual trip nor making friends, and eventually grew into it far too late in the story.

I then changed it to have the trip be her idea, and she ran away from home to chase this dream she had. Doing so gave her much more agency as an MC and gave her an immediate motive and goal so you wanted to see her succeed right from the get go.

Even villain protagonists have a goal, and generally they very much enthusiastically want to be in this story. You don’t have to like them, but you do have to want to root for them, if not for their success, then their eventual downfall in a blaze of glory.

—

Interested in a fantasy novel without a "chosen one" protagonist? Eternal Night of the Northern Sky is up for preorder in ebook, paperback on sale 8/25/24. Subscribe for updates if you'd like~

[megantheebaddest]

Can you do a smut imagine where basically jack and his gf and their freinds are having a movie night at his house but you start getting horny and text him to meet you in the bathroom

a/n: Thanks for the request baby🥰

18+ MDNI

Needy Girl

Everyone was cuddled up in the living room of Jack’s place, fully invested in Superbad. Snacks and cans of beer scattered across the coffee table. You could not focus on this movie even if you tried. Sipping your wine cooler you observe the room when your eyes land on your boyfriend. Jack was sitting across the room from you with his hood up, manspreading, laid back in his seat totally invested in the movie letting a few giggles escape his lips. Your eyes flickered around the room once more before landing back on Jack. You watched as his lips pressed together into the cutest grin ever, him and Urban can quote the whole thing. Which they did. Slapping each other laughing at every thing.

You started to feel the heat between your legs. Still sipping your drink you kept your focus on Jack. ‘I need him.. right now’ you thought in your mind. You bit the inside of your cheek, flickering back and forth between Jack and the movie. An idea came to mind. You quickly pulled out your phone and opened the text thread between you and Jack. You looked back over to him and he had his head laid back on couch now but still the same position. His eyes looked to be getting heavy.

“Hey” you texted eyes immediately looking back at him. He didn’t move though.

“Jackman” you texted once more.

This time his hand crept into his pocket sliding his phone out, eyes still on the movie. With squinted eyes from the brightness of his phone he read your messages. He looked up at you with a smile.

“Watch the movie y/n” he responded. Putting his phone back in his pocket and continued watching. He was now manspreading and had his hands in his sweat pants pockets. My god he looked so good.

“i can’t.”

“you look really good, i can’t focus”

Feeling his phone vibrate twice he kept his head laid back on the couch rolling it to look at you. He gave you an annoyed look. Most likely for interrupting our movie night. As he looked at you, you looked away back towards the movie. Out of the corner of your eye you see him get his phone back out. You look back at him to see his thumbs texting back.

“Drink some water you seem thirsty ma” he responded.

He looked over at you reading his response. Your eyes shot up towards him with your mouth hanging open with a shocked expression. You immediately pout at him. He shoved his hands back in his pockets, head laid back, smile from ear to ear on his face, and now he was squeezing his legs open and shut. You know when he does that he’s trying not to get hard.

“Come to the bathroom with me” you texted back.

You got up from your seat and quietly walked out without any of the other guys seeing you. Jack however watched your every move. He opened your text and looked around to see if anyone was paying attention, luckily no one was. He quickly got up and made his way to the bathroom. He was right behind you, you had no idea you didn’t hear him. You made it to the bathroom and when you entered it you turned around to shut the door but before that you were met with Jacks lips crashing into you. You inhaled a sharp breath from being startled. He shoved his tongue in your mouth moving it all around. Your hands creeped up and grabbed the back of his hair.

“You needy girl. Just couldn’t wait till later huh?” He asked grinding his hard on into your sensitive area. You immediately pushed forward and grind back into him.

“mm” was the only thing to escape your lips.

“What do you want?.. Tell me what you want baby” He said.

You only started lifting his shirt up sucking on his neck, losing your patience.

“Answer me.” Jack said sternly.

“Fuck me. Ruin me. Do anything you want, please.” You say almost screaming. You started ripping your clothes off.

“What’s got you so worked up? Huh baby?” Jack says as he too removes his clothes.

“You. Just please hurry it up will ya?”

“Relax alright? I’ll take care of all your needs. Just be patient y/n” He slowly starts kissing down your neck

“literally i can’t. I’m literally on the verge of cumming already.” you say trembling

“But i didn’t even touch you yet? Must not need me then?”

“Stop, please just fuck me already”

Jack effortlessly picked you up slamming you on the bathroom counter. A little squeal escaped your lips. He slowly entered you, your head falling back.

“Eyes on me.”

You looked right at him with your mouth in a ‘O’ shape. Without warning he quickens his pace.

“You’re so tight y/n, my god.. FUCK “

His big hand wrapped around your throat lightly squeezing, he stuck his thumb in your mouth. You couldn’t control your moans. Your legs were trying to squeeze shut as they were trembling.

“Relax baby girl. I’m almost there too. Hang on for me, just a little longer.”

You couldn’t even think clearly. Anytime he talked you through it you were a complete mess. Before he gave you the okay you came all around his dick.

“Fuck! You’re such a little fucking brat. Ya know that?” Jack moaned out as he pounded into you harder and faster.

“Let me get another one out of you just for that.”

You were squealing and trembling, completely over stimulated. He kept pounding into you relentlessly.

“Jack i can’t hold it any longer!”

“Yes you can” He grunted

You came again. All over him.

“Y/n!!! Last chance” He growled.

He continued his thrusts as he pulled at your nipple with his mouth. He was a moaning mess.

“I’m close baby are you almost ready?” He asked

“Yes.. Yesss. YES!” you moaned

“Cum with me. Now!” Jack hissed.

You both came, moaning loudly. He had his head buried in the crook of your neck. He slowly thrusted in and all the way out, riding out your highs.

“You wouldn’t be so worked up if you would have just listened to me.” He said out of breath.

[burntb4bydoll]

Pookie bear my love my stars (very respectfully)…. Are you willing to write the crazy ass sex after Tom beats the asshole up 🤭🤭 You got my curiosity now I am so invested in this; my oh my ~

YES I AM WILLING TO WRITE THAT MY LOVELY SWEETIE PIE

@meryldian

Tom Kaulitz x fem!reader

Warnings: mirror sex, choking, praising, hair pulling, possessive Tom😇

“Tom,” you giggled “Slow down!” Tom pulls you quickly into the house, eager to get you all to himself. He turned around to send you a smirk, making you roll your eyes playfully.

“You’re not gonna want me to slow down when I fuck you.” You gasped, another fit of giggles escaping your lips.

“Jesus Tom! You’re so dumb.” Tom leads you up to his room, immediately pressing his body up against your and pulls you into a heated make out session. Both of your hands wander over each others body, tugging off your clothing while continuing your messy kissing.

“Im gonna try something new, baby. Turn around.” You do as you were told and turn around, seeing yourself in the mirror that was across from you on the opposite side of the bed. (Im so fucking dumb idk if that makes any sense) “Im gonna fuck you right in front of this so that you can see who you belong to. You’re gonna see who fucks you better than anyone else can.” Tom pushes you so that you were laying with your stomach pressed against the mattress. He comes up behind you and pulls your hips up so that they are pressed against him. Your eyes meet his in the mirror before trailing over to look at his almost completely naked body. He looked ethereal in the dimly lit lighting, watching you with hunger in his eyes.

“You look so good Tom,” you groan “no one could ever compare to you.” You compliment, pushing your ass into him to gain some friction. The room was growing hotter as his hands held onto your hips, slowly grinding himself on you.

“Yeah? You’re such a sweet girl. Im gonna make you feel so good, baby.” His boxers were quickly discarded before he moved to remove your own underwear. Tom rubs his hand over your ass before giving it a gentle squeeze while he rubs his tip through your wetness. After a few seconds of teasing, he finally pushes himself into you. He gives you a second to adjust before pulling out halfway and slamming himself back in. Hearing the way you werw moaning for him made him smirk, speeding up his thrusts.

“Fuck Tom! You’re so deep. Feels so fucking good~” Panting, you lay your head down onto the mattress. But Tom decides that he doesn’t like that. His hand grabs a fistful of your hair, pulling you head up to face the mirror again.

“No, baby. You don’t get to look away. Watch yourself while I fuck your pretty cunt.” His groans start to grow louder as he watches your eyes gloss over while you make eye contact with him. He lets go of your hair and leans down to kiss the back of your neck. “Good girl~ you listen so well.” The sounds of his hips meeting your ass make you impossibility more turned on. Usually when Tom gets jealous he is more degrading and harsh, but this time he wants nothing more than to show you how well he can treat you. Tom knows that he’s the only person who can make you feel this good, and he wants to prove that to you.

“Tom- Tommy… can you choke me? Please? Ill be so good!” You prop yourself up with your elbows, giving him a pleading look through your reflection. His hand comes up to wrap his fingers around your throat, squeezing it just enough to make you whine. “Thank you! I love you, Tommy.” His thrust start to get sloppy after hearing your sweet voice, and he feel’s himself growing closer to cumming.

“God, you are so fucking hot. You like when I choke you like this? You like watching me fuck you?” His desperate voice pulls you closer to your own orgasm, feeling your stomach start to tighten.

“Mhm! Love it s’much…oh fuck..” your eyes start to roll back when his free hand starts toying with your clit, rubbing quickly against you. “Shit! Im gonna cum, Tom! Make me cum. Please make me cum!” You begged, watching his hips pound against your body. He bit his lip, trying to hold of on cumming until you do.

“Come on, pretty girl. Be a good girl and show me how good I make you feel.” His hand squeezes your throat harder, sending you over the edge. Tom watches as your body starts trembling as he can feel himself slipping into his orgasm.

“Cum inside me Tom, please! I want you to cum for me~!” You were still riding out your orgasm, your pleasure almost turning into overstimulation. Tom immediately cums after hearing your whiny begging, moaning loudly at the intense feeling.

After he pulls out, he flips you over to kiss you softly. Your eyes flutter shut, trying to savor the warmth of his lips. When he pulls away, his hand gently caresses your hair. “You did so good. I’m so proud of you, sweetheart.”

[fungateshortcakes]

Sub!Logan headcanons pt.2

The world is in need of submissive Logan headcanons and fanfiction, so i will take matters into my own hands and supply the hungry people with what they want and deserve.

You can find part 1 of this here

English isn't my first languange please don't bully me😔

Nsfw under the cut!

I like to think that Logan was never really big on sex toys before he met you

Knowing that they exist, but never coming around to try them. And that didn't really bother him

He didn't think that a small little bullet vibrator would take him apart like this when you first introduced it to him

He was unimpressed before you started, to say the least. But that tiny thing was strong

When he came rope after rope after rope as you pressed the vibrator to the underside of his tip, he felt embarrassed and pathetic for cumming so quick. And so hard

Tell him you love it when he cums that quickly

From that day on forward, he wasn't the same

He found himself using your wand vibrator on his weeping cock when you weren't there and he'd always cum so fast no matter how hard he tried to control himself

And it always felt so good

He didn't want to get caught by you when he needily bucked his dick against the vibrating wand, but that didn't go well for long

When you found out just how much he actually iked vibrators, you bought him a vibrating cockring for christmas

Logan doesn't only like to use these toys on him, but on you, too

If you've got a clit, he'll press it against that senstive bundle of nerves while eating you out, completely immersed in the taste of your pussy that he doesn't notice how many times you came and that he was overstimulating you to no end

What can i say, Logan gets pussy drunk easily and goes in for seconds and thirds (and fourths, fifths...)

His favourite positions when you fuck him (either with a strap or your own cock) must be anything from behind, wether it's on the bed or he is pressed against a wall and holding himself up weakly while his legs shake with every thrust

He just wants to feel you in the deepest parts of him and replace that empty feeling

Please, if you can cum inside him, for the love of god please do it

Have fun pulling out beforehand because Logan won't let you

He will beg and plead until you give in, there is no way you leave him without filling him up first

Not that you would want, anyways

His face contorts so prettily when he feels the warmth of your seed pooling in his belly and stuff him up

The sound is obscene when you pull out and all your cum spurts out of his hole

When you can’t cum in him yourself, a squirting dildo with fake cum would be a very good investion

Logan also loves to watch your cock or dildo dissapear inside of him over and over again, his abdomen slightly bulging outwards when being buried to the hilt inside of him

Press down on his stomach like that and he is done for

There is a reason why there are so many mirrors in your room...

His favourite position when he fucks you is anything where he can see your face

Cowgirl, missionary, mating press, you name it

He wants to see your face when you cum on his cock so he knows if he is being good for you, if he is fucking you right

He needs to see and hear that he is doing a good job, so please encourage him!

Logan also especially loves these positions because, when he cums, he can bury his head in your neck and bite there instead of a pillow, leaving a mark on you

___________________________________

@xenith-eats-stars thought i might tag you for this😌

Guys let me know how you liked this and if you want more🙏🏻

[reysdriver]

Silly Face | E.M.

carving pumpkins with the family — dad!eddie x mom!reader fluff

warnings: a knife (used for carving the pumpkin), so much fluff

words: 1.2k

You sat your baby son up on the plastic-covered kitchen table so he would have a view of his dad and his sister as they prepared your Halloween decorations. 

“Are you excited to carve your first pumpkin, honey?” You asked your daughter. 

“Yeah!” Willow responded excitedly. “They’re gonna look so good!”

“I bet they are!” You said, entertaining both kids at once by tickling Ash while talking. “Is Daddy done with all the prep?”

Eddie smiled at you. “Yup. Got the pumpkin guts right here!” He made a fake vomiting noise as he waved the bowl of pulp and seeds in front of you. 

“I’ll take that, thank you.” You laughed, taking the bowl and putting it between you and your son. “My baby boy can play with that while you two do all the fun carving stuff.”

And even quicker than you thought, the little boy dove for the bowl beside him and stuck both hands into the gooey mess, squealing while he felt the pulp squish between his little fingers. 

 While you watched Ash enjoy his silly sensory experience, Eddie handed a marker over to your daughter and told her to draw the outline that she wanted to carve out of the gourd. 

“What are you gonna make, baby?” You asked her.

“A happy face!” 

Eddie kissed your daughter on the cheek after she handed the marker back. “You’re not gonna make him scary, honey?”

“No!” She said, like it was obvious. “Scary is too scary. He’s gonna be silly!”

“What? ‘Scary is too scary’? I’m wounded, my little girl.” Edde held his hand to his heart like he was so offended by what Willow said that he was going to have some kind of a medical emergency. He fell back into his chair and put on an exaggerated face, which elicited a giggle fit from your daughter. 

You couldn’t help but laugh as well. “Don’t listen to him, honey. I think your silly pumpkin looks perfect.”

“Thank you, Mommy.” She said bashfully. “Did you see his eyes? They’re different shapes!”

“Of course I saw it, sweetheart. I love it.” You told her. “Now, do you want to wake your dad from the dead so he can help you cut the shapes?”

Your daughter shuffled around to face Eddie and shake him ‘awake’. Eddie’s eyes shot open and he inhaled dramatically, which just made Willow laugh even more than before. 

“Oh my god, honey.” Eddie turned to you, a hand still clutching his chest. “Did you see how our daughter just saved me from the dead? I think we should start investing in medical school like, yesterday.”

“I think a magic school where she could practice necromancy is better for that. And probably cheaper.” 

“Well, either way, we agree she’s gonna do great things in life.”

You reached out to tickle Willow’s side. “I have no doubt about that, starting with helping Daddy carve this silly pumpkin!”

Eddie picked up the knife and held it away from your daughter, keeping it tight in his grip but still leaving enough room on the handle for her little hand to hold it with him. 

She reached up to grab it, then they both guided the knife to the first eye she had drawn. With some extra force, they pierced into the thick skin of the gourd and sawed out the shape. Once the eye was able to be popped out, Willow grabbed it from the rest of the jack-o’-lantern and held it out to show you. 

“Look, mommy! We’re taking out the face!”

Eddie made eye contact with you as you both tried not to laugh at the way she described pumpkin carving, but you quickly returned your eyes to your little girl. 

“I’m looking, honey. It looks good so far.” You told her with a smile. 

She seemed pleased with your response, so she turned back to Eddie and went to help hold the knife again. You watched them bringing the utensil to the pumpkin once more, but your youngest child took your attention for himself when he deemed he was done playing with the pumpkin guts. 

He turned towards you and babbled some incoherent syllables that you were proud of him for attempting. He stuck one of his hands in his mouth, then promptly took it out and made a face at the taste of raw pumpkin. You scooped Ash up into your arms, then wiped off his hands with a clean dish towel that was next to Willow. 

“All better, baby.” You told him softly, then began bouncing him on your leg to earn some more happy squeals from him. 

Still bouncing your son lightly, you looked back up to your daughter and your husband as they carved out the other eye shape, which your daughter was just as excited to pop out and show you as the last one. You made the same happy face you did last time, then watched the whole time while they finished the jack-o’-lantern. 

After it was all done, Eddie pivoted the pumpkin to show it off to you and Ash. 

“Well, how did we do?” He asked, getting up to put the knife in the sink. 

You knew he was mostly asking so Willow could be praised by you, so you directed your answer at her. You soundlessly clapped your little boy’s chubby hands and gave her a big smile. “You did so well! It’s the best jack-o’-lantern I’ve ever seen!”

Willow looked overjoyed with your compliment for her pumpkin, and she got off her chair to hug your waist. “Thank you, mommy!” 

“No need to thank me, honey. I just appreciate good Halloween decor and I’m not ashamed of it.” You told her, standing up and moving Ash to your chest. “Do you want to take the silly pumpkin outside now?”

She immediately turned and reached up onto the table to try and grab the pumpkin, but you brought a hand to her shoulder and told her to slow down. “Let’s get Daddy to grab it, honey. It’s pretty heavy and we don’t want to drop it and ruin your masterpiece, right?”

She understood and moved away from the pumpkin, instead walking towards the front door. Eddie picked up the pumpkin and walked to the door as well, then you and your son followed closely behind. 

Willow opened the door for you all, then pointed to where she thought her creation should go. Eddie obliged and turned the pumpkin to the angle of your daughter’s liking.

Eddie stood up to his full height and put his hands on his hips, looking down at the jack-o’-lantern. 

“You know, my love, our daughter’s a visionary, she’s an artist, she’s a holiday decorator; what can’t she do?” Eddie asked you, putting a bashful smile on your daughter’s face. 

“That’s a good point, Eds. Maybe she’ll even be a teacher and help her little brother carve pumpkins when he’s old enough.”

Willow rushed to hug your leg tightly at your suggestion. You knew the day in question wouldn’t come for at least a few years, but you were already as excited as her.

[bubblyhearts87-14]

How to Fall in Love in 5 Snacks

notes: so i super love theater and i came up with this idea while I was at one. My main account has other asks so I thought it would be fun to post here instead. Don't expect future fics to be this long, they normally aren't lol. Also I may or may not write a fic about Mikey and his person in this fic 🤷 who knows 🙈 This was written by Hearts (you can tell my the notes being green and the divider being green!)

Popcorn and one water

Leo saw her almost as soon as he entered the theater. She was at the counter, across the busy lobby, wearing a name tag. Leo suddenly wished he had supervision so he could out her name from all the way over here.

“I'm gonna go get a snack.” Leo informed Donnie who likely gave a snarky reply but Leo was far too invested in getting closer to her. He was surprised that he hadn't seen her around before, since she looked like she was in his grade.

 She had a sour expression on her face, looking dull and monotonous. Not fully a frown but definitely not a smile, her eyes darting away before they could meet anyone else's. It made Leo nervous that she was uncomfortable.

Either way, he was determined to swallow his anxiety and get a snack (or rather use getting a snack as a guise to learn her name.) 

Leo patiently waited in line, tapping his fingers against the fabric of his jeans. His heart beat erratically in his chest, sweat collecting in his hands. He tried to wipe it away just as it was his turn to get concessions. 

“Hi, what can I get you?” She said, her voice surprisingly friendly for such an….unpleasant expression. 

“Can I get a……” Leo faltered, realizing he hadn't thought of what to get yet. He glanced at the menu trying to figure out what to get before he frustrates you or the people in line. 

Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck. 

“Can I get popcorn and a bottle of water?” Leo finally said, hoping you wouldn't think his choice was dumb. Was it dumb? Should he have gotten a candy bar? Or maybe he should have gotten a soda instead? 

“Alright, coming right up.” She said cheerfully, turning around to grab a water bottle from the fridge. She leaned over the counter, standing on her tip-toes (Leo couldn't help but find that adorable) to hand the water to him. Leo shivered when your fingers brushed against his, his green skin gaining a pinkish tint. 

Leo finally glanced at her nametag, the sound of her name repeating over and over again in his head. It sounded so nice, so pretty, so lovely. He wanted to keep it locked up in his brain, place it on a shelf and make sure your name never gets forgotten and left to the dust. 

Finally he got his popcorn, yet again his heart fluttered when your hand touched his. Was it normal to have heart palpitations over minor touch? 

“Enjoy the show!” She said, giving Leo a small smile. He felt like the luckiest turtle in the world.

“You too, [Name]!” Leo said, taking a moment to process. Then he proceeded to die of cringes. She wasn't even watching the show since she was working! 

Leo quickly walked away before he could see your reaction to his absolute idiocy. 

How was he already so far gone?

2. Two hershey bars and one bag of gummies

“Leeeeoooooooo, can you please get me a snack?” Mikey whined, not even five seconds after Leo had returned with his own snacks. Not that he was complaining, since his brain was still on the counter where you handed him his popcorn and water.

Leo's hands still tingled, like all the atoms inside his body were doing a little dance right where your skin has brushed up against his. God, he felt ridiculous. (Donnie would most certainly label him a simp if he could hear Leo's thoughts.) 

“Alright fine, I'll get your snack.” Leo conceded, acting as if he wasn't ecstatic to see you again. Even with his last moment with you making Leo crumple up with cringe, he still likes you. 

[Name.] 

He wondered if you could tell how much you already make his heart pound and make his head feel like it's underwater. Like he's drowning quick and fast but Leo found he doesn't mind if this is his death. He liked the way you made him feel.

Leo put his own stuff down in his chair, using his ninja skills to avoid getting trapped in the crowd. Normally this sort of event wasn't for Leo, it's crowded and busy and Leo doesn't know this musical. But Mikey begged for them all to go so they could support his friend.  

He had never been happier to do something Mikey wants. 

Leo weaved his way through the hoard of people, making sure to avoid getting stuck in the monstrously long bathroom line. Finally, he made it out into the lobby eyes darting around until they spotted you.

She seemed to notice Leo too, as time slowed down. Her lips quirked into a smile, eyes crinkling like just made an inside joke with him. 

The blue clad turtle got into line, trying not to seem impatient even though he really really wanted to shove everyone out of line. That would be rude of him. 

He couldn't help wanting to see her! But he could control his…aggressive urges. (Maybe Raph was rubbing off on Leo a little bit.) 

After what felt like an eternity but was only a few seconds, it was finally Leo's turn. He approached the counter trying to suppress the dorky grin on his face.

"Hello again." She said, her eyes watching his face carefully. His skin itched like her sight was physically touching him.

"Hi, again. My brother wanted some snacks so I'm back." Leo explained, although almost immediately regretting it. Was it too much information? Was he rambling? Did she think he is a weirdo?

"If my sister was here she would make me get her snacks too." She replied, gifting Leo the chance to hear her delightful laugh. It was soft and quiet, repeating itself in his brain like a record that never stops turning.

He wanted to keep talking to you, maybe bond over having siblings, but there were people behind hin who were growing impatient. Leo only hopes to see you after the show.

"Can I have two hershey bars and some gummies?" Leo asked, feeling light and airy. Although disappointed he has to go as soon as you give him the food. She handed it to him, her gentle fingers wrapped around the packages as they brushed against his calloused skin.

"Enjoy the snacks." She said, with a small smile. Leo returned the smile, not saying anything yet in fear of saying something cringe again. He can't control the things he says around you.

As he turned around he could have sworn he heard you mutter, "See you soon, cutie."

Leo really hoped his brothers wanted more snacks soon.

3. One pack of cookies and a Sprite

The musical was a lot better than Leo had anticipated. The story was interesting and the songs weren't obnoxious. Plus Leo could see how much Mikey was enjoying seeing his friend up stage.

"Ughh, I need some soda. Dude go get me some and a snack too." Raph said, shoving some money in Leo's hands just as the lights started coming back on. It was intermission, or rather the little break in between acts so the actors can have a break. At least that's how Mikey explained it to Leo.

Leo was grateful for the intermission since it meant he had another chance to see [Name]. It seemed things were going very well with her! Even if he's only know her for about an hour. And most of that hour has been watching high schoolers kill other high schoolers. Very fascinating stuff.

"You're lucky I'm a good big brother." Leo replied in a snippy tone as though to mask his excitement Which doesn't seem to work because Donnie glances away from Mikey and gives Leo a suspicious look.

"Uh huh and you aren't excited to see Miss.....[Last Name]?" Donnie added, glancing at his phone. Leo blushed, more embarrassed by the teasing than the fact Donnie probably just got all of [Name]'s personal information.

"W-whatever!" Leo squeaked, face burning even more as his brothers laughed at him. How would Donnie even know Leo already had a major minor crush on [Name]? How obvious was he about it?

Leo doesn't have much time to think about it because he quickly had to weave himself through the lines forming to the bathrooms and concession stands. Yet again he was feeling grateful for Splinter teaching him the skills he needed to not get trapped between the parents of the actors and the other kids forced to come. A...unique crowd.

How many times was he going to be stuck in this line, waiting to see the face that had been plaguing his thoughts for the first half of the show? It was frustrating certainly but he had to remain patient and hope [Name] won't be sick of seeing him.

"Hi, what can I...oh it's you again!" She said, her smile brightening instead of falling thankfully. Leo laughed, although it sounded slightly awkward.

"Yeah, my brothers always seem to want me to get them something." Leo rolled his eyes, pretending as though he wasn't insanely excited to come back to the concession stand and see her.

She snorted and muttered a, "Real." as she gave Leo a wry smile. "And what do your brothers want this time?"

"A pack of cookies and a Sprite, please."

[Name] grabbed the stuff, her skirt flowing around her. She was dressed so elegantly, making Leo feel slightly under dressed. But she was utterly stunning, so much so it made Leo's tongue feel like an iron weight on top.

"Here you go, Blue." She said with a grin, making Leo startle slightly. Oh, oh. He hasn't even told her his name yet! How stupid can he be?

"My name's Leo." He explained, a slight influx in his pitch making him blush yet again. (Why must every bone in his body be cursed with awkwardness?!)

"Well, it's nice to meet you. I hope to see you soon, Leo." She said, waving Leo off. He smiled a little dopey as he walked away, almost under a trance.

He was unable to be saved from the thing called love.

4. Two granola bars

"Donnie, you are such a weirdo! Granola bars?" Mikey complained, leaning back in his chair as he watched Donnie hand Leo his money.

"Yes! I'm not wanting sugary treats right now. Granola bars are a perfectly acceptable snack." Donnie huffed, handing his blue masked brother a five dollar bill.

"Yeah, yeah. Just hand me the money so I can buy it before intermission hands." Leo complained, exaggerating his annoyance so he doesn't seem terribly down bad for [Name]. He's known her for barely any time at all and he's already dying to see her again, taking any chance really.

"Shut up, Nardo. You aren't fooling anyone. Now hurry up and get my food." Donnie replied, pulling out his phone to watch the newest episode of whatever anime he is currently obsessed with. Leo scoffed but walked away, heart flurrying with excitment.

Would [Name] think he is pathetic for his thoughts? Or would she call him a romantic? Oh god, if only he knew whether she liked him even a fraction of the same way.

"Bye-bye birdie~" Mikey sang, giggling after. Leo rolled his eyes, finding the musical reference not very funny at all. His brothers were such dorks.

Leo walked into line yet again, although grateful to see it isn't as long as before. She seemed to be working fast, waltzing from behind the counter to give everyone the things they bought.

"Here you go, sir! I hope you're enjoying the show!" She said to the man in front of Leo, finally making it his turn. How Leo so nervous? Gah, he's scared the money will be damp from how much he is nervous sweating!

"Wow, I feel like I haven't seen you in centuries." She said with a dry smile, Leo awkwardly laughing. Damn, she's so cool! And he's so....not!

"Hehe yeah. My other brother decided to get two granola bars." Leo explained, her eyes lighting up with amusement. His stomach clenched at that look. She was so effortlessly beautiful.

"Ooh, interesting choice." She hummed grabbing said items. Leo nodded, still feeling his nerves like a tightly pressed spring waiting to be unleashed.

They exchanged the money and granola bars, luckily with her seeming to notice the copious amounts of sweat on Leo's palms. Why must he be so embarrassing?

"Better get going." She said, jutting her chin towards the door, "Show is about to start."

Leo sighed, his heart fracturing dramatically at what seemed like rejection. Maybe she hasn't been flirting with him and Leo is too delusional to read the signs. Of course she doesn't like him! He's a cringy, dorky mutant who can barely speak without saying something so awkward.

"Yeah, that's true." Leo replied, wishing he could suck the disheartened tone out of his words. His very existence is embarrassing! She frowned a little, like she was surprised to see Leo disappointed.

Either way, Leo turned away and headed back to the audience with a heavy heart. He shouldn't be surprised she doesn't like him the way he liked her.

Who would like a freak like him?

5. ?????

Leo was....impressed by how much he enjoyed the show. He had never been one for musicals or any of that stuff but he can appreciate it. Especially since Mikey was head over heels for the lead in the show. (Although Mikey keeps saying they are "just friends")

He grabbed his trash and threw it out, waiting for his brothers to finish talking to the cast in the lobby so they can head home. He was exhausted.

Leo couldn't help but feel heartbroken over [Name] even if they did nothing more than be friendly while working. He sighed and leaned against the wall, watching Donnie bond with another audience member who liked anime. All of his brothers had a chance with someone except for him! Maybe it was less to do with him being a mutant and more of the fact he was so awkward and annoying and stupid and emb-

"Hey, Leo."

He stiffened at the sound of her voice, his heart yet again being sent into overdrive. He tried to stay calm as he turned around to see [Name]'s curious but tired expression. She was pretty enough to frustrate him.

She gave him a smile that put Leo slightly to ease, even if he was wary. And for little reason since she did nothing but her job! Leo was a pathetic lovesick fool.

"You forgot your last snack." She said, a slight glint in her eyes. Leo's curiosity was intrigued. She held out her arms and showed Leo what she was holding....a box of dates.

"Umm, what?" Leo asked confused, trying to figure out whatever the hell she meant by that. Dates? What teenager in their right mind eats those? And does their school even sell them?

She flustered (how cute Leo thought it was) and looked away, still holding the box of dates in her hands. Leo wasn't sure what was going on.

"It was a stupid pun. Like a date for a date? And multiple because I want to go on multiple dates with you?" She explained, an embarrassed laugh coming from her, "Sorry, I must have misunderstood some signals. I thought you were cute and I wanted to ask you out but I chickened out earlier."

Leo could have sworn his face was going to explode from how much blood rushed to it quickly. She thought he was cute? And she was dorky enough to ask him out using a pun? Leo must have died and gone to heaven because someone this perfect can't exist and like him.

"You don't need to say anything. Sorry fir bothering you, Leo." She shyly stammered, attempting to walk away but Leo grabbed her wrist before he could second guess himself.

"I'd love to go on a date with you. And I would make a pun but nothing can top yours." Leo replied, shoving the words out of his throat before he can be too shy. She brightened immediately, her smile widening.

"Really?" She asked, turning to face him. Leo nodded and smiled, finding her happiness contagious.

She leaned in and so did Leo, the rest of the world fading to black. He was about to get his first kiss! With an awesome girl too! Maybe they should wait for their first date? Or do people normally kiss this soon? Maybe Leo should have watched more romance movies when he had the chance.

"Bleh, can you stop giving each other the lovey dovey eyes?" Donnie complained, all three of Leo's brothers appearing at the most inopportune time. Leo pulled away the same time she did, both looking like guilty kids.

"Time to go?" Leo asked, cringing at the way his voice squeaked. All of his brothers snorted and [Name] gave Leo a sympathetic smile.

"Yeah, lets go!" Mikey said, still looking far too hyper for it to be 10 pm. Raph rested his arm on Mikey's head, almost like it was his way to wrangle the younger boy.

Before they left, Leo and [Name] swapped phone numbers so they can plan a date and talk. Leo waved goodbye to her, smile spreading across his lips like invisible hands were forcing the joy on his face.

"You're such a dork, Nardo." Raph snorted, bit Leo was far too happy to even care about rebutting him. He may be a dork but he did get the girl.

[bbangi]

Comfort Food

Hailee Steinfeld × Actress!Fem!Reader

Summery: You had a really rough day and didn't expect your girlfriend to make your comfort dish at home.

" Lee? I am home!! " You said like if you were in a sitcom, even though you were tired, you would never let Hailee know it.

" Oh, Hi Babe! " Hailee excitedly said, appearing in the kitchen's door frame. You quickly noticed that her hands were covered by gloves that looked sticky.

" What are you doing there? Must I worry about you and the fire's relationship? " You said chuckling as Hailee's expression went from excitedly to playfully offended.

" You must not! I am not using fire, " She said and quickly got back to the kitchen.

You made your way to the kitchen to try and soy on Hailee, but she was quicker than you using her well-known Spider 6th sense.

" Don't come in here now! Go take a shower, then you can come back and eat. "

" Ok ok spider girl, imma take a shower," you said, giving up and starting your way totally he bathroom " Don't burn the kitchen down!! " You screamed at her.

" I will not chef! " She screamed back.

Hailee was too invested in doing whatever she was cooking for, noticing you getting back into the kitchen after a relaxing shower and going right behind her.

" Whatcha doin' baby monster? " You ask, scaring her while scanning the table. Spam, two bowls of white rice with a brown sauce in it and two fried eggs.

" Hey! What are you doing here??? You're not supposed to enter until I say so! " She says, putting her hands on your eyes. " Go to the table, I'm almost finished "

Y/N waited for about 10 minutes. That was when Hailee came to the table with two bowls of spam poke and chopsticks. You could not lie. You were really surprised, Hailee it's not someone you can trust in the kitchen but this... this looks amazing and tasty.

" Florence told me about your day, Love," Hailee said in the sweetest voice you've ever heard coming from her. " So I am here to help you this night, please enjoy your favorite meal! "

" O-oh my god, thank you so much Lee. I love you " You said in shock and gave her a quick peck on the lips before you dived on the food.

" My Gosh Hailee! This is incredible! " You said with your mouth full.

" Really!? " And now you busted her ego " I think I have the talent for the kitchen you know? " She said with a sly smirk on her face.

" I think you should stay in front of the cameras my love "

" I agree, never doing this again. Unless is for you. I love you "

" I love you too, thank you so much Babe "

[topguncortez]

My Side of the Couch | Dragon & Rooster

Dragon & Rooster Masterlist | Over the Rainbow Masterlist

synopsis: Dragon Bradshaw-Trace has never been the type to cry over spilled milk. . . well that was until Bradley ended up sitting on her side of the couch

word count: 1.4k

warnings: pregnancy, a dash of smut, crying, mood swings, mentions of IVF.

Dragon had just reached the 12th-week mark of her pregnancy, and things had been going well so far. Her nausea had started to lift a bit, making it bearable to get through most of her workday. The fatigue was the worst though, settling in right around lunch. They were still keeping the pregnancy from the Dagger Squad, which was getting harder and harder every day, especially now that Dragon was experiencing mood swings. 

She tried her hardest to keep her feelings at bay. She usually didn’t mind the normal ribbing and jokes that the dagger squad shared amongst themselves, but these days, the jokes weren’t hitting as they should. Bradley had somewhat noticed the change in his wife, seeing that her laughter was forced, or her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes. He never questioned it, knowing that she wasn’t going to tell him if anything was wrong. 

It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The Bradshaws had spent most of the morning cuddled and loved up in bed. Bradley had become so cuddly and clingy since finding out that Dragon was with child again. He could hardly keep his hands off of her, taking her several times in a row, before she inevitably had to call for a break. Bradley had found his way down to the living room couch, just in time to watch the Phillies game, while Dragon decided to get some work done in the office. At some point in the game, Dragon decided to come downstairs. Bradley was deeply invested in the television as Dragon got herself a snack and came to join him. 

However, there was just one issue. 

“Move, you're on my side of the couch,” Dragon said, holding a bowl of strawberries in her hand, and standing right in front of Bradley’s view of the Phillies game. 

“Baby, it's a couch, there’s room over there,” Bradley pointed to the other side, peering around his wife, but she moved quickly to block his view, “Honey, the game is tied in the bottom of the ninth, please, just sit on the other side.” 

“No!” Dragon stomped her foot and set the bowl down on the coffee table, “That’s my side of the couch! Move your ass, Bradshaw.” 

Bradley groaned and looked around her again at the television, which Dragon moved yet again to block him, “Grace, please! Just let me finish the game and I’ll-” 

The words fell silent on Bradley’s lips as he looked up at his wife in total shock. In all the years he’s known Dragon, he has only seen her cry a couple of times. She wasn’t the type to cry over spilled milk. She had told him once that tears were only meant to be spilled for things that mattered. Which was why Bradley was in total shock as Dragon started sobbing in front of him. 

“Oh my god, are you crying? Don’t cry!” Bradley said, standing up and reaching for her. She shook her head and swatted his hands away. 

“You are being mean to me!” Dragon cried. 

“Baby, it’s a spot on the-” 

“I am crying because of you!” 

“Honey, I am sor-” Bradley was cut off by Dragon turning her back to him and hiding her face in her hands. His mouth felt dry as he attempted to reach out to his wife again, placing a hand on her shoulder, just for her to shake it off, “Grace. . .” He sighed, trying to get a bone, anything, that would help him help her with whatever was going on. 

“Can you please just go outside?” Dragon said, meekly. Bradley didn’t say anything but nodded his head and turned towards the backdoor, not quite understanding what just transpired in a matter of seconds. 

He let out a sigh as he sat down in one of the patio chairs and looked out towards the ocean that was a mere feet from his house. The scene from the living room replayed over and over in his head as he tried to figure out where he had gone wrong. It wasn’t for another couple of seconds that it finally dawned on Bradley what had happened. 

Bradley stood up quickly from his spot and walked into the house, straight for the living room, finding it surprisingly empty. His brown eyes looked around until he heard soft footsteps from upstairs. Carefully, he jogged up the stairs and towards the bedroom he shared with his wife. He didn’t dare to just barge in like normal. Instead, he knocked softly and waited for her to make the move. 

And some move did she make. 

Dragon opened the door, standing in front of him in what was probably his favorite piece of lingerie she owned. His eyes went wide as he looked her up and down, trying to remember what it was he came up here for. 

“My eyes are up here, Bradshaw,” Dragon snapped her fingers. Bradley looked up from her breasts (which had grown in the past couple of weeks) to her face, smiling sheepishly at her. 

“I came to apologize,” Bradley said, “I didn’t mean to upset you by not moving, I should’ve moved.” 

“Shut up,” Dragon rolled her eyes and grabbed his collar, pulling him in for a kiss. Bradley reciprocated it, settling his hands on her bare hips, his thumbs rubbing over her soft skin. She wasn’t supporting a bump yet, but Bradley knew it was any moment before she would. He gently walked her back towards the bed, both of them falling into a heap of limbs on the mattress. 

Dragon’s fingers tangled in his curls as Bradley placed kisses up and down her body. She moaned as one of his hands moved to her chest, gently squeezing her tender breast. Bradley had always been so attentive to her body, kissing every scar and blemish on her skin, but since she got pregnant, he spent more time kissing and nuzzling against her tummy. Tears once again filled her eyes as Bradley placed a delicate kiss right above her navel. Dragon cursed herself as she tried to hold the tears back, but couldn’t help the small sniffle that left her nose. 

Bradley lifted his head up instantly, his eyes filling with worry and then softening at the sight of tears, “Honey, what’s wrong-” 

“Nothing! Jesus Christ, Bradshaw! Will you just fuck me?!” Dragon exclaimed, but it was quickly followed by soft sobs. Bradley cooed and laid down next to her, pulling her into his chest, and covering her half-naked body with a blanket, “You got me pregnant.” 

“Well, if we are being honest, Doctor Miller got you pregnant,” Bradley chuckled, “I just jizzed in a cup.” Dragon lifted her head, and Bradley’s eyes widened in horror as a loud cry left her lips and she pushed away from him and into the bathroom, “Sweetheart!” The door slammed shut and he heard the lock click, “I’m sorry!” He yelled and a few seconds later he heard the lock click again. 

Bradley walked to the bathroom, using every ounce of caution the Navy had ever taught him. He knocked on the door, hearing the sound of rushing water from the bathtub faucet, before opening it. Dragon leaned over the side of the bathtub, testing the running water until it was at the right temperature to plug the drain. Bradley walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her waist as she stood up. She melted against his touch, her lips in a pout as she watched the bath begin to fill. 

“Can you tell me what’s going on?” He asked quietly, placing a kiss on her temple. 

Dragon sighed and Rooster was worried for a second that more tears were about to follow. But she softly said, “My emotions are outta whack. I’m mad one moment, horny the next, and sad right after. I don’t know what’s going on. I would take the brain fog over this shit.” 

“It’ll be okay,” Rooster assured her, gently running his hand over her tummy, “I’m sorry for upsetting you.” 

“You didn’t, I’m just being emotional,” Dragon looked over her shoulder at him, “I guess that just means this is working. Bean is gonna be okay.” 

Bradley smiled and pecked her lips, “Go wait in bed. I’ll come get you when this is ready,” Dragon nodded and kissed her husband again before walking back into their room. Bradley smiled as he reached under the sink for her favorite bath soaps and candles. Dragon’s words rattled around in his head as he got her bath ready for her.

taglist: @damrlova @shanimallina87 @mygyn @cherrycola27  @yanna-banana @seitmai @topgun-imagines @bradleybeachbabe @startrekfangirl2233 @xoxabs88xox @atarmychick007 @Munsonswhore86 @happypopcornprincess @sophiaslastbraincell @bradswolfe  @fandom-princess-forevermore @angelbabyange @genius2050 @lovelywiseprincess @eternallyvenus @dakotakazansky

[melishade]

Sorry about that. Named are not my strong suit. Especially if the names aren't English or Spanish. The only foreign show I've watched where I can remember all the names is One Piece.

Anyways, if Elita's been trapped that long, between Zeke talking to the Emporer and Mikasa's visit, that means she missed the fight.

There's no way she's not gonna notice the new scar on Optimus' shoulder. Levi and/or Wheeljack would definitely take the opportunity to get Megatron in trouble twice in one day.

Elita-1: So, what did I miss?

Optimus: Oh, nothing much. Just bit of trouble with the Marleys, Wheeljack and Arcee dropping by, and Azumabito Clan wanting to see our strength by having Megatron and I-

Megatron: *Covers Optimus' mouth* Atatatatatatatarah!

Elita-1: *Glares at Megatron* What happened?

Megatron: Nothing of importance! Mind your own business!

Levi, Wheeljack, and every other person who hates Megatron or likes drama:

@excelciorst Part 8: Elita getting out of Hizuru

Pacifist husband/bloodthirsty wife. That's hilarious.

Elita would ultimately ask about the scar, but Optimus quickly tells her that they'll discuss it later because they have guests and he doesn't want them seeing any more violence than they already have. And the royal family and Kiyomi already got a peak of the Elita v Megatron and the aftermath.

Kiyomi whispering to Taisho: Maybe it was a good investment after all.

Kenshin: Please tell me that you did not refer to the titan that just kicked the Flying Titan's ass as a 'good investment.'

Cause they've heard the reports on the Flying Titan from Marley. And Kiyomi has seen Optimus and Megatron fight. That is honest to god terrifying, seeing one of these titans fight with an intent to kill.

Hanji: Hello, your majesties! My name is Hanji Zoe: Commander of the Survey Corps! While we let Buckethead wallow in a pain of his own creation, how exactly was it that you've managed to find Elita?

Elita and Wheeljack stay outside on the Jackhammer and listen in on the conversation in the building while Optimus and Arcee are inside with their holoforms. Taisho explains that he had bought Elita because he was simply trying to buy one of the newer model cars that came on the market. Kiyomi then explains that Kenshin had learned about Elita's actual identity and were trying to find the exact same model car she copied before anyone found out.

Levi: Buckethead blew her cover by just being himself.

Kiyomi and Kenshin: Yes.

Optimus hates the fact that his conjunx is being considered property but keeps that to himself.

Then there's also the fact that Taisho brings up the deal he and Elita made: 5% increase in energon and protection from coups in exchange for free passage to the island and government secrets. This is a controversial deal, mainly because Elita isn't known and could be at risk of being discovered. Not to mention she's going to be in service to a country that they don't know they can completely trust yet. Katsuko has remained quiet in all this, but does notice the way that Optimus reacts to something that would jeopardize Elita's safety. Something as simple as a flinch or a flex of the finger. Her husband is as stoic as he appears to be, but...this was familiar.

Now somewhere along in that conversation, Taisho does refer to Elita as machinery and/or property, and oh fuck no one has ever seen Optimus look that pissed without saying a word. Arcee is genuinely afraid (because she doesn't know Optimus and Elita are a thing. No one expect Ratchet really knows among the Autobots.) And the Survey Corps immediately take a step back. And Optimus warns Taisho of not referring to any of the Autobots as machinery or property. And then it finally clicks for Katsuko what the hell is going on and quickly requests an intermission before pushing Taisho out the room before he gets himself killed!

Elita is a little embarrassed but also a little smitten. She knows that Optimus was pissed from audio. However, Wheeljack is confused why Optimus reacted that way, and Elita, seeing that the war is finally over, decides to tell him.

Wheeljack:

Finding out that your leader is alive, Megatron is alive, Elita is alive, and that Optimus and Elita are in a relationship really breaks some brains. But the fact that Wheeljack has been on this world for at least 24 hours and this is what he found out, really makes him love the place.

Meanwhile Katsuko has to quietly explain to Taisho away from everyone else that Optimus and Elita are lovers you dense idiot! Taisho already got the idea that Megatron was considered and enemy, and is no doubt considered hostile, but he never expected lovers in any of this.

Katsuko: Darling, lover, my precious hare...you're so dense sometimes and I hate that about you.

Taisho blushing in embarrassment: You married me when I asked, so what does that make you?

Katsuko: You are sleeping on the couch when we get back home.

After that debacle, they work out the deal and come to an agreement before the royal family head back home. Kenshin gives Mikasa her gift of origini and sakura mochi before hugging her (causing Eren to nearly snap at him) before heading off. Elita is finally able to calm down...until she notices the claw marks patched up on Optimus' shoulder.

Elita: Optimus, what happened?

Optimus grows rigid at that question: I fear if I answer, you may kill him.

Elita inhales deeply before turning to Levi: What-!

Levi with the biggest smirk: Optimus and Megatron fought each other to show their battle prowess and Megatron injured Optimus.

Elita's optic starts twitching.

Levi: Drawing energon.

Elita draws her sword. Optimus gets in her way.

Optimus: Let it go.

Elita: Optimus-!

Optimus, more commanding: I am ordering you to let. it. go. I am fine.

Elita puts her sword away: Stop making excuses for him.

Optimus: It has been a long day. I do not want any more conflict.

Levi laments being robbed of his fun. Meanwhile, Hanji is surprised at how much Levi is actually smiling because of Megatron getting pain.

Optimus and Elita definitely spend some time catching up with each other in private. Elita goes after Megatron again once he feels better. Wheeljack tells Arcee about Optimus and Elita being in a relationship, and she goes:

This world is going to break her brain.

And true to Katsuko's word, Taisho sleeps on the couch, and she locks his office so he can stew in what he did wrong.

[stuffingprize]

Why ship Agon & Yoichi? Welcome to the 2nd portion of my long AgoHiru meta post!! I ended up having to break it into 3 parts because of the sheer amount of images. If you missed Part 1, please go HERE.

~~Part 2~~

TWO YEARS LATER - Agon doesn’t care about football.. except when he does

Agon is considered such a high-value player that scouts from University teams & Sports writers come see him play. Unfortunately for them, Agon doesn't actually enjoy football enough nor deems his participation important enough to play full time or train. And yet, when it comes to Yoichi’s new High School team, Agon makes exceptions.

During Sena’s first Deimon vs Ojo match, Agon makes surprising appearance. And he's not only keeping tabs on Yoichi, but also on any interesting newcomers to the team:

Checking out Mamori, downplaying Sena, insulting Yoichi.. tsk tsk

Remember how Agon insults Sena along with Ryokan during Riko’s interview? From the moment Yoichi’s football team begins to boast a new star, Sena becomes Agon’s new target of ire. Sena who, like Ryokan, lacks in areas Agon can excel. Sena who is currently Yoichi’s trump card.. the position that should be Agon’s.

Sena has no power, but his speed gives Deimon a chance at the Christmas Bowl, & Agon can’t stand that. Because at the end of it all, I think his issue isn’t the fact that Yoichi plays football, it’s the fact that he continues to choose his less talented friends to accomplish his goal instead of the "once in a century genius athlete" that is Agon.

For all his talk about playing football to crush those without talent, nothing personally motivates Agon more than playing for the sole purpose of ruining the dream Yoichi Hiruma has with his friends..

An answer that evokes an image too similar to the one Agon saw the day he decided to join Shinryuji.. Even Riko can tell this topic spells a land mine, oof

Yoichi influences Agon: +20 points! (Agon hates Yoichi’s friends, specifically Ryokan & Sena.)

~

DEIMON VS SHINRYUJI - Dethroning the Gods

When the chance to play against Deimon finally arrives, Agon, of course, decides to play the game in full, much to the surprise of his teammates. And he quickly escalates to participating in ALL ASPECTS due to Yoichi's continued provocations, because it is of course Yoichi’s opinions that he cares about:

When he finally faces off against Yoichi himself, Agon chops him down the same way he does everyone. But once Yoichi gets a hold of his leg, Agon smashes him to the ground so hard, the demon bleeds!

Such strong aggression.. like some seriously pent up UST

And five minutes after contact, Agon still can’t stop thinking about it because he’s so affected by it!

As the match goes on, Agon reluctantly begins to accept Sena as a formidable player, but nonetheless he continues to keep an eye on Yoichi, often bringing up his history with him to assess the potential of Deimon’s plays.

Despite not speaking to each other for two years & the fact that they mostly only hung out for blackmail, Agon sure knows quite a lot about Yoichi’s stats & play style. I think this shows he’s clearly very invested in him.

Deimon's match against Shinryuji is SUPER DELIGHTFUL to me for several reasons, especially because:

We got a story of origins: how the Maou trio ended up in Deimon

The Shinryuji Nagas have been set up since vol 6 as the Best Team in all of Kanto, with 9 consecutive championships won

Agon is presented as a personal villain to the our protagonists, which makes winning against his team all the more sweeter

Yukimisu debuts!

Because Agon is a man who can play any position, this is the only game where every touchdown by Deimon was done by a different character

Agon, the once-in-a-century genius had such malicious intent in proving to Yoichi that his team was made up of losers. But he instead ends up getting owned by a variety of Deimon's players, even those who had never before touched the ball in an official match!

By the end of the game, guess what Agon thinks about?

His conversation with Yoichi, and the two players he bashed the most. The end result of this match crushes him so badly that he decides to do the previously unimaginable: to TRAIN.

Yoichi influences Agon: +30 points! (Agon plays a full match. Agon tastes defeat. Agon decides to train!)

And so.. after being bested by Deimon, Agon begins to take the sport seriously, fully intent in seeking another rematch. Another chance to once again prove he’s the best player & that Yoichi should've chosen him.

Oops.. Except that Deimon’s third years don’t get to participate in sports.

See, training soon proves to not be enough for Agon. Not only does Agon keep a close watch on Deimon's next matches, he even goes so far as to try out for Teikoku High after Deimon secures their ticket to their long-coveted Christmals Bowl. Because Agon doesn’t want to wait a whole year for a rematch. 

Maybe it's just drama to up the stakes, but taking his history with Yoichi & his tremendous grudge against Yoichi's friends into account, I posit he did it because he knew Deimon’s third years don’t get to play sports. Defeating Deimon without facing Yoichi would feel pretty pointless, after all, it is Yoichi whom he wants to brag to.

A year ago, Agon turned down Teikoku because of how committed he was to staying at Shinryuji specifically. Yet that goes out the window the moment it wasn’t enough to ruin the dreams Yoichi build with his friends

In any case, Agon goes to watch Deimon vs Ojo in person once again, as well as the Christmas Bowl. As for the Hakushuu match, he only watches it through TV (maybe he couldn't watch Yoichi get crushed in person).

Yoichi influences Agon: +20 points! (Agon tries to get into Teikoku. Agon gets increasingly more invested in football)

→Continue to Part 3→

What’s it like when they finally play on the same team? Where do they go from there? And other bonus topics!

[gyuspeach]

4:57pm

"Too loud, Honey." Gamer!Beomgyu's eyebrows raise, revealing his big doe eyes, peeling off one side of his headset to hear you.

"What was that, love?" he said in a hushed whisper. Quickly glancing back and forth from you and the violently illuminated screen in front of him.

"You're. Too. Loud," you enunciate, "I'm trying to study, remember." You force out a smile to hide you're annoyance; walking back to the place on his bed, sheets of homework and a book sprawl across it.

"Sorry, baby," he slides his headset back on.

You see. You didn't actually plan on studying here. You were in your dorm room when Beomgyu called you to hang out cause he missed you. You ofcourse protested as you had an exam coming up later in the week.

"Please, Baby," his whines ring out of the speaker on your phone as you try and scribble down the function of the amygdala. "I haven't seen you in three days, and I go home this weekend. I can't live that long without seeing you."

You can practically see the pout on his face, trying to appeal his case. You, on the other hand, are too invested in your notes that you didn't respond.

"Baby?"

"Hm?" You started, "sorry, I really need to study, Gyu."

"You can study at my place. I just need to be atleast with you," he pleads once again, "I miss you, pretty."

You sigh, giving in, "Alright, I'll be there in ten."

Beomgyu didn't plan on gaming tonight. But he hopped on when "the boys needed him". So now you're on his bed, jamming cognitive functions in your memory as Beomgyu screams to Heeseung to "GO TO THE RIGHT AND COVER ME- NOOOOOOO!"

That was your last straw. You're neck deep in homework from all your classes and have a midterm coming up, you walked ten minutes in the burning heat all the way to Beomgyu's apartment after he begged you to spend time with him. And now he's yelling at his screen for the past 15 minutes, and you doubt that the game will stop. All because he missed you.

"'Missed me' my ass," you sigh loudly and get up, gathering all your books and papers into your bookbag.

"Oh my God, guys. Did you see that?" He glances at you to find you packing your stuff. "Uh guys, hold on," he slides off his headset and gets up. "What are you doing, love?"

"Gyu, I'm stressed and I need to study," you sling your bad over your shoulder.

"Woah woah woah why do you have to leave?" He pouts, " just study here."

"You've been yelling for the past 15 minutes," you deadpan. "The only time your looked at me was when I got up to tell you to quiet down."

"I'm so sorry baby, I got-"

"I don't need your excuses, I just need to study," you interrupt and start your way toward the door, "I'll be at the campus library when you really do miss me." And slam the door behind you.

"Fuck," Beomgyu grabs his keys and puts on some decent pants. "Guys I gotta go," he speaks into the headset to hear protests on the other end before shutting down his PC. Grabbing his phone before running out the door to catch up to you.

A/N: idk how do this shit lmfao. My first thing I wrote 🙈. I got this idea after yelling at my brother to shut tf up when he plays his games in the fucking living room 😁. I hope yall like it 👉👈

[gh0stsp1d3r]

Tangerines and deers- Part 3

Series masterlist

Tangerine looked around, and didn’t see the two people running behind him.

“Fuck, fuck fuck fuck fuckity fuck.” You said quietly, taking a look back at tangerine as you ran.

“He’s got a nice ass.” You mumbled.

“Oh for fucks sake, Could you please stay on task?” Ladybug said, grabbing your arm and running.

“You know that’s impossible.”

“Yup.”

✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰

Tangerine slapped lemon when he saw him sleeping. Lemon grunted and woke up and slapped him back.

“Fuck me!” Tangerine said, holding his mouth.

“There he is.”

“He got by me.”

“Yeah. Yeah, me too. I guess our best option now is, uh, bring the white death the man who killed his son.”

“But Glasses and Deer didn’t do it.”

“I could give a ra- Deer?” He asked.

“Yeah, it’s the girls name. Or her nickname at least.”

“She don’t act like a deer. More like a goddamn cheetah. But I could give a rats ass.”

“No, I’m telling you, I read him, both of them, they’re not the type, mate.”

“I’ll tell you what, do you like your arms?”

“You know I like my arms.”

“Well, then, someone’s got to take the blame, don’t they?” Someone’s phone buzzed as tangerine talked.

“That’s you or me?” “You or me?” They asked at the same time, and they both checked their phones.

“Shit, that asshole stole my phone.” Lemon said and checked for his gun. “And my gun, Lucille.”

“Oh, come on.”

“That’s my favorite gun. Son of a bitch.”

“Fuck about.”

“Right, what?” Tangerine answered his phone.

“Step off the train at the next stop with the briefcase and the son.”

“Hang on a minute, didn’t we say Kyoto?”

“You will still depart at Kyoto. The white death wants to make sure you are being honest about situation.”

“Well, this is a complete waste of our t-“

“All right, all right, we just have to prove we have a briefcase that we don’t have, and a live son instead of a dead one.”

“What are you thinking?”

“The ol’ Punch and Judy?” Tangerine asked at the same time as Lemon said “The ol’ Punch and Judy.”

After Tangerine got back on the train, he quickly sat down.

“We need to find that glasses twat, like, right to the fuck now. And the girl.” He groaned “I’m gonna go up, you go down, double back when you’re done. If you see any of them, fucking deal with them, yeah?”

“Yeah.”

“Up is…?” Tangerine asked after a little.

“That way. Towards Tokyo. Departing trains are always moving down.”

“And look, be careful. Something else is going on here. And that girl.. she just seems way too calm. Something’s up with her.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah, I still feel like there’s a diesel lurking about.”

“I swear to god, what did I say? What did I say? I said I’ll fucking-“

“Shoot me in the face. Yeah.”

✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰

“There’s fucking piss on the floor, and you’re just sitting on it? That’s disgusting, man!” You told ladybug as he sat on the bathroom floor.

“Are you guys- hiding in the bathroom?” Maria asked, a little confused.

“Yeah. Have you tried these these smart toilets? They’re a pleasure to the senses.” He said, Messing with some buttons.

“If I had one in the chamber I would rock this bad boy right now.”

“Boundaries.” Maria sighed “We need boundaries.”

As he messed with the buttons, water came out of the bidet and someone started knocking on the door.

“Occupied.” Ladybug said, and you groaned in disgust as the water sprayed on your face.

The woman outside was grossed out and shocked. He turned off the water.

“You remember that mob surgeon that died mid heart operation?” Maria asked.

“Yeah, he had a stroke, right?”

“No, that was the official cover. He was poisoned. The assassin goes by the name of the hornet.”

“Huh. Fitting. Y’Know since hornets are among the most dangerous of stinging invests because they can sting multiple times without dying. And since-“

“We get it.” Ladybug said, annoyed.

“What I’m saying is that they can be poisonous.” You continued.

“Anyways.. he used boomslang snake venom.”

“that’s the same snake on the train, is it not?” Ladybug asked.

“So you actually remembered what I told you?” You said, sounding excited.

“Yeah, yeah.” He said, messing with the buttons again and this time some wind came out.

“It congeals the blood, making you bleed out of every orifice, it’s extremely dangerous. If the antidote isn’t administered within 30 seconds, you’re dead. Fun fact: the same poison that was used on—“

“El sagardo.”

“It’s El Saguaro.” Maria corrected again.

“And it’s the same one that killed the white deaths kid!” You said.

“What is the hornet doing on this train?”

“Well, whatever deal was made, it wasn’t done through the normal channels. There’s something else going on here.”

“Told you.”

The woman outside asked how long he was gonna be.

“It’s still occupied, lady.” She backed up and went back to her seat, not bothering anymore.

“The wolf must have figured out who the hornet is, came here for revenge for his wife, his boss, came here to whack the hornet.”

“Oh, my god, did you just say whack?”

“I did, I’m bringing it back.”

“No, it needs to stay where it was.”

“I agree with Maria. God you’re so old.”

“If I can figure out who the hornet is, I can give him to lemon and tangerine so they don’t whack us.”

“Really?” Maria said.

“You see what I did there?”

“You’re really proud of yourself, aren’t you?”

Someone knocked on the door again.

“Jeez, they’re usually so polite here.”

You sighed and got up, opening the door.

“Lady, can you pl-“

You were met with tangerine.

“Well, how are you on this amazing day?” You said, leaning on the door frame and twirling your hair.

He showed you his phone.

“Oh. That’s cool.” You said, checking your phone. He grabbed you, and you shut the door on him.

He opened up the door and you tried to kick him.

“Come here, you dirty fucking scum!” He kicked you in your legs multiple times.

You pinned him to wall, he punched you, and ladybug caught you when you fell back.

“Thanks.” You said breathlessly, moving your hair out of your face.

You moved out of the way, and He pushed ladybug instead of you.

They were in the kitchen, and you came up behind tangerine, kicking him in the back. He tried to get up, but you got on top of him.

“This is a lovely position. I like it. We should stay like this.” You said.

“I’d hate to ruin such a pretty face.” He mumbled.

“Ditto.” You said, but he punched you in the face anyways, you groaned and held your nose.

“What happened to hating ruining pretty faces?!” You said.

Ladybug slammed a drawer in his face, and now it was tangerine holding his nose.

Tangerine punched ladybug in the face, he stumbled over slightly but got back up. You waited for the right timing.

As soon as ladybug stumbled over slightly, you looked at him and gave him a look. He nodded and stepped back. Tangerine was going to throw a punch, but he missed.

You were too fast, you put your thighs around his head, he tried to grab at them, but you moved your legs and kicked him right in the face. He fell back and groaned loudly. He spit out some blood, and he swore one of his teeth became loose.

(If anyone knows what movie that move is from ily)

“Nice job! You’ve gotten really good at that.” Ladybug said, and you guys high fived.

“We know who killed the kid.” You said, standing above him, with your leg on his chest.

“How the- what the- I couldn’t give a rats ass. Where’s my fucking case?” He got up, pushing your leg off him and knocking you back a bit. You quickly recovered though as you guys went back into the kitchen.

He was surprised. He’s never seen anyone fight like you do. It was interesting.

He tried to punch Ladybug again, but was unsuccessful as ladybug kicked him instead.

Ladybug grabbed a coffee maker, but set it down as soon as he heard the door open.

They cleaned up everything.

The girl grabbed some things.

“Oh, I’m so sorry. Excuse me.” Ladybug said, moving out of the way.

”お父さんとボーイフレンドを許してください。 彼らは最も賢くない .” You said with a smile. She laughed.

(please forgive my dad and my boyfriend. They aren’t the smartest.)

They both looked at you, offended. They understood the language, but just didn’t speak it.

“Boyfriend?” Tangerine asked, you just winked at him.

“いいえ、いいえ、大丈夫です。” she giggled.

(No, no, it’s okay.)

“ちなみに、あなたはとてもゴージャスです.” You said.

(By the way, you are so gorgeous.)

“ありがとうございます！” she smiled widely at you.

“Thank you.”

She asked them if they wanted anything.

“Oh, no, thank you. We’re okay.” Tangerine said.

“Oh, I would love a bottle of water.”

“You know what? Do you have anything sparkling? With bubbles?”

“You and your damn bubbles.” You muttered. The lady handed him a bottle.

“That’s the one. Thank you.” He thanked her. He only learned how to speak a little bit of it.

“Yeah. Oh yeah.” He said, opening the bottle. “Bro, I just remembered I gave all my money to that guy to wear my hat and glasses. Could you?” He pointed to her.

Tangerine looked at you.

“Sorry, love, nothing on me.” You winked he gave you an annoyed look and took out his wallet.

“How much for the water?” She told him how much, he took it out his wallet.

She thanked him.

“A thousand yen. Thats ten quid for that bottle of water, mate.”

“Mm..”

The lady walked away, they thanked him and said bye.

He downed his water, and held up a finger.

“So.. you never denied the boyfriend thing. Maybe we could Y’Know... get to know each other.”

“Not a chance, love.”

“But you just called me love and you called me pretty earlier.” You sung. He just rolled his eyes.

“You sure you don’t wanna talk this out?” Ladybug asked.

“Not particularly, no.”

He sighed and put the cap back on. “Okay.” He threw the bottle at his head, he fell back and got back up again. He attacked Ladybug.

“You fucking bastard! Fucker! Come here, you little fuck!” Tangerine pinned him up against glass, and then it broke. He hit him against the wall repeatedly.

[ana-chronista]

Jance: 16, 18, 28, 34, 45 please?

Thank you for the asks!

16. Who loses their temper fastest? Jan, at least on the surface. I don’t think either of them are particularly quick to anger, but Nace strikes me as having a bit more of a handle on his temper and being a bit more able to walk away from a situation. 18. Who would hold onto a grudge longer? Again, Jan. Working through an issue and his feelings about it would probably take him a bit longer than it takes Nace. Having that coupled with a quick temper isn’t great, but Nace would be understanding most of the time and give him space when he needs it (until it’s time to give him a bit more of a push to get over it). 28. What's a conversation they'd get overly invested in that nobody else would care about? This has got to be the irl conversation(s) they had about what you call garlic in English. Not the cloves, but the whole head/bulb (or, as I’ve always called it, just garlic). I could see them driving the others mad over several days from across the flat, probably from different floors. “Hey, Nace! NACE! I just found something that says it’s a bulb, but it looks like that’s when you plant it – ” “Oh my god, you guys, you’ve been at this for three days! Does it matter?!” “Listen, I’m already dealing with weak salt in this ridiculous country, I’m not dealing with unclear garlic as well.” 34. What's something that makes them proud of each other? I think there’d be a whole range of things from big events (like Jan completing his thesis) to smaller, everyday achievements (like Nace completing his Pokedex). They seem to be each other’s number one fans, so I’m not sure there would be anything that wouldn’t make them proud and all heart eyes about each other. Again, I think the others would end up facepalming about it A LOT. “Did you see how quickly he picked up that new song?” “Yes, Jan, we were literally there.” “He’s just a genius, there’s no two ways about it.” “Jan, we’re all in the same band together. WE KNOW.” 45. If one of them was in trouble, what would the other do? Come to their aid, of course! Obviously there’s some things that they can’t help with in the moment – think a broken instrument on stage, where you have a crew to handle it and you need to keep up with your own part of the performance, but you can offer emotional support/consolation about it later. But they’d be there for each other however they could, no matter what (up to and including a prison break 🤭).

[descendantofthesparrow]

Days in the sun - Walter Deville x Reader - P4

=

The rest of that afternoon was spent with Evie and (y/n), I had to hide my smile behind my hand as I chatted with Evie, (y/n) was practically ignoring us for the book I had given her. Her eyes were completely glued to the pages, almost forgetting there was food in front of her as Evie and I talked about her stay so far and how exactly she had been found by Oliver.

“Seriously you put a book in front of her and she goes into her own dimension,” Eive chuckled, waving her hand in front of (y/n)’s face, (y/n) not even glancing up, flipping another page of the princess bride. I couldn't help my grin, laughing quietly as (y/n) finally looked up, only to grab a strawberry and then go back to the book.

“Are we boring or something?” I asked Evie, scrunching my nose as she shrugged, sticking a fork into her salad. “Compared to the book-probably” Evie mumbled, reaching out and tapping the top of the book down, (y/n) pouting at Evie once her face was revealed. “Do you mind? I'm invested.” (y/n) grumbled, making Evie and I laugh as she went back to the book.

I snorted softly, licking my lips as I pushed my finished plate aside, one of my servants quickly taking it away and to the kitchens. “So, how exactly did you and (y/n) meet?” I asked, (y/n) had given me some insight into their friendship, but I don’t recall if she had told me the details. Evie hummed, giving me a knowing look as she rested her elbows on the table.

“Well, we met about four years ago, we were both working at a gig, and we got along pretty well. I heard her talking to herself about using that night's tips to get herself a hotel room that night, and well-I offered her a place to stay for a little bit-at least till she got back on her feet.” Evie explained, (y/n) glancing up to smile at her and joining in on the conversation “I told her she didn’t have to, I was a practical stranger, but she insisted-and four years later-here we are~” (y/n) sang, I couldn’t help but laugh, gods I had missed her so much.

“Here we are,” Evie hummed, stealing a strawberry from (y/n) as she went to reach for one, giving her a smirk of victory as (y/n) glared/pouted at Evie. “There is an entire bowl of strawberries right in front of you, and you go for the ones on my plate? For shame Eve” (y/n) hissed playfully, stealing a crouton off Evie’s plate and making a loud crunch noise as she ate it. I laughed as Evie gasped like (y/n) had insulted her mother, her hand on her chest while her mouth gaped open.

“Please, no cat fights at lunch.” I joked, taking my ‘strawberry’ lemonade and taking a long sip, shaking my head as (y/n) rolled her eyes and gave a dramatic flair of her hand as she spoke-Evie almost cackling as she did. “As the lord commands~”

Fuck I had missed her so much. And I really loved this developed sarcastic/funny side to her, she had been sarcastic before, and never failed to make me laugh-but the way she spoke now just sent butterflies through my stomach.

(y/n) went back to the book as Evie and I continued to talk, she eventually asked about the non-existent Cecile Deville, correctly assuming I would be related to her-but unfortunately, she didn’t exist. I did my best to create a sudden lie about my ‘niece’-not really expecting Evie to ask about the false Deville. I could feel (y/n)’s eyes on me, and I could tell she knew I was lying, but she didn’t say anything; just going back to her book.

Soon enough my attention was called away, and I had to hold back a sigh; wanting to spend more time around (y/n). “Well, have a good afternoon ladies, I’ll see you later.” I chanced a glance at (y/n), smiling as I saw her already looking at me, a small smile on her lips. ‘see you’ she mouthed, going back to her book as Evie turned to her, chatting away as I walked back into the manor, Mr. Fields stepping closer to me.

“Good afternoon sir, the dresses you ordered for Lady Alexander have been delivered” I hummed with a nod, taking the small stack of papers he handed to me and heading towards my study. “Good, have the cocktail dress delivered to her room, and the other two to my room for now, ” I muttered, pausing for a moment as I remembered (y/n)s plight. “oh, I have one more to order for tomorrow night, once it’s here, deliver it to lady Godkin’s room.” I muttered, continuing on as Mr. Field paused, wondering who lady Godkin was.

“Godkin, sir?” I froze, oh shit-I hadn’t realized, licking my lips slightly as I turned back to my butler, just glad I hadn’t called her by her married name. “Yes, (y/n) Godkin.” he actually looked surprised to hear her name connected to the last. “Make sure her dress is delivered to her room upon arrival.” He just slowly nodded, hiding his frown as I turned away and went into my study, sitting at my desk and getting back to work.

While I did that, I made sure to call one of my younger servants, the one who had helped me order Evie’s dresses(since I wasn’t exactly tech savvy) and ordered (y/n)’s cocktail dress, my mouth watering as I imagined her in that sleek black gown, her leg peeking out from the fabric.

Fuck I needed to calm down…and a cold shower. I let out a long breath, forcing the image from my mind and getting back to work, soon perking up as someone knocked on my door. “Come in,” I said aloud, just in case it wasn’t one of my wives-but I could smell Lucy’s perfume from here.

She stepped inside, her bright blonde hair pulled back in a small ponytail, two locks of hair framing her face. “Ah, Lucy.” I stood, making my way around the desk and leaning against the front, nodding at my youngest wife. “Is something wrong?” she shook her head, glancing back at the door before smiling at me. “I was just wondering, who Evelyn’s friend is? I know this morning Viktoria asked about her, and you were….iffy about it, but I was hoping you might give me better insight without her around.” I just hummed, crossing my arms, wondering how to explain (y/n) to Lucy.

I couldn’t tell her the truth exactly, while I did trust her, I didn’t trust her enough to not accidentally spill to Viktoria-who wouldn’t hesitate on destroying (y/n), even if it meant her death. I settled on a half-truth, “She is connected to my family, a Godkin actually-the original heirs to the Deville fortune,” Lucy looked genuinely surprised to hear that, and I held up my hands to prevent any gossip from her. “Do not mention this to anyone, including (y/n), she has no recollection of her past, she has severe memory loss and I fear any mention of-well, anything-without immense care, could hurt her.” Lucy slowly nodded, not expecting my explanation but looking satisfied all the same.

Then she perked up, another question coming to mind. “Another thing, what is our story to Evelyn?” I corrected her mindlessly. “Evie,” Lucy easily corrected herself. “Evie, just so none of us cross stories and such.” I let out a low hum, crossing my arms, telling her of Cecile Deville and Marvin Alexander, and their wedding on Sunday, they would be arriving on Saturday night, for the rehearsal dinner.

“Try to steer clear of that story however, so there are less lies for us to untangle” I muttered, rubbing my jaw as Lucy nodded. She peeked behind her shoulder and I knew Viktoria was listening in. “Enjoy the rest of your day Lucy, there should be a new shipment of blueberries coming later today as well” Lucy beamed at the mention of her favorite fruit and nodded, squeezing my arm before she left the room, her short ponytail bobbing as she skipped out; closing the door behind her.

I hummed to myself, remembering I had made an order of shrimp along with that, a smirk coming to my lips. Evie had dinner with her family tonight and while I was sure (y/n) was invited to eat with them being Evie’s +1, I hoped she would accept my invitation for her to dine with me tonight, cooking was something I had always liked doing for her, even when I barely had any ingredients to cook.

I snorted at the thought of my cooking bringing back a memory, and got back to work, a smile on my face at the thought of my (y/n).

-

Several hours later, I was finally done; I had several last-minute meetings with a few people from the one, one being something about needing approval to edit their terrain for better water tunnels. Another about their livestock being attacked and needing funds to hire animal control and new fencing. I approved both, knowing their farms were a direct source for me, the one needing the terrain being my fruit distributor.

By the time I finished, it was starting to get dark, the sun slowly drawing its curtains as cooks bustled down in the kitchens, getting food ready for the Alexander family dinner. I sniffed, ruffling my hair as I stood from my desk and made my way to my room, needing to change out of my clothes after being in pinching shoes all day.

I grabbed a dark teal Henley shirt, pulling it over my head and rolling up the sleeves slightly, changing into some dark trousers and some comfy shoes. I perked up as I hear my butler begin to hiss at someone, freezing as I heard my beloved almost squeak back in fear.

Oh no he fucking didn’t. not on my watch. I threw my door open, storming down the hall to make the short path towards my personal kitchen, where I saw Mr. Field with his back to me, glaring down at my (y/n) with a vile tone to his voice. “No one is to enter his personal kitchens. Especially not someone like you,”

I didn’t hold my fangs back, my eyes flashing dangerously as I snarled out my butler's name, a fierce protectiveness in my chest as I saw him whirl around to look at me; his eyes wide with sudden fear. “What are you doing!?” I quickly stepped between (y/n) and Fields, glaring down at my butler, who had quickly and unfortunately signed his pink slip. “I told you not to treat my guests so harshly!” I had mentioned this twice now, to be nice to Evie and (y/n), especially (y/n). You’d think calling her by her last would turn some cogs in his brain but apparently not.

“I was told your personal rooms were not to be intruded on!” Mr. Fields tried to defend himself, he was right, I had told him my rooms were for only me unless someone had permission, and I had permitted both Evie and (y/n) the night before. I just shook my finger in his face, as if he was a toddler throwing a tantrum. “And I gave them, Evie and (y/n), access to my kitchen, personally! If I hear you talk to them, especially (y/n), this way again; I will have you forcibly removed from this manor! I don’t care how many years you’ve served this family.” I hissed you, grabbing (y/n)’s hand and pulling her into the room, forcing myself to calm down as I slammed the door shut, running my hands through my hair and forcing my fangs to retreat.

I took several deep breaths, covering my face as (y/n) stood a few feet away from me, thankfully not scared of me and my sudden anger. I had to control myself, I had to keep myself from ripping Fields limb from limb. I would not tolerate the way he treated my (y/n), it was a sin to even think such a way of her. I took one more deep breath, turning to look at (y/n), my anger dissipating as I looked into her eyes. “I’m so sorry (y/n),” I said with a wince, rubbing the back of my head as she tilted her head at me, clutching the book to her chest. Heh-she was still reading it after I gave it to her this morning. “I told him to treat you and Evie with respect, yet as soon as I turn my back he does,” I flung my hand in his general direction, anger burning in my teeth. “that.”

(y/n) just hummed, tipping her head up at me with that sweet smile of hers. “Thank you, for not letting him continue.” She muttered, tilting her head slightly as I huffed, glaring off in my butler's general direction-I would have an intense talk with him later, if he pulled that bullshit again he was out of this household. I really didn’t give a fuck how loyal he had been to me, no one talked to my (y/n) that way. “He shouldn’t have started in the first place,” I muttered back, ruffling my hair until my bangs were in my eyes, turning back to (y/n) as my shoulders relaxed.

Then it hit me, why was she going to my kitchen in the first place? Weren’t the Alexanders having dinner right about now? I asked her as such, making my point to say she was Evie’s friend, but she just curled in on herself, and I was going to fucking strangle Oliver and Alfred. “They uh-“ she coughed into her first, looking uncomfortable. “-they didn’t have space for me.”

I let out a low grown, almost a demonic growl but I held that part of me back, I didn’t want to scare her. I pinched my nose, muttering curses under my breath as (y/n) looked up at me with an unsure frown. I covered my eyes for a moment, feeling them flash with anger then dropping my hand, licking my teeth. “I’mmmmmm” Going to fucking kill them. “fucking hell.”

Instead of going off to murder the Alexanders, I clapped my hands, rolling up my sleeves as I got to work making the dinner I had planned to make for (y/n) in the first place; but that had been when I didn’t know Oliver was going to be a bitch. “so, I’m gonna guess you’re hungry?” I asked (y/n), who nodded, clutching the book to her chest as she watched me walk around and get things ready, walking back and forth between the stove and fridge.

“Are, are you going to make something for me?” (y/n) asked, completely surprised I was cooking for her, she hadn’t known I had made breakfast that day. I just nodded, getting out a large skillet and a large pot, filling the pot with water, and starting to boil it. “And why not?” I chuckled, turning back to (y/n) with a soft grin. “I haven't eaten yet either, so might as well.” I really didn’t need to eat, but anything to make her feel welcome with me. “besides, it was unfair to you for them to leave you out, so now you get premium service, food made personally by the lord of the manor~.”

I gave her a small mock bow, grinning as she smiled and continued to watch me cook. I got out a pack of frozen shrimp from the freezer and set it in a small running bowl of cold water, letting them thaw out as I got to work making the two sides. (y/n) soon set down the book and washed her hands, I let out a soft chuckle as I heard her. I set the pack of vegetables away from the stovetop and got the pasta out, turning as (y/n) asked me what she could do.

I just rose my brow, smirking down at her as I leaned on the counter. “You can go stand over there,” I nodded back towards her book “and look pretty, which I assure you will take no effort from you. I’m taking care of you tonight.” I enjoyed the rush of blood I heard go to her cheeks, but she just pouted up at me, and if I knew my (y/n)-she wouldn’t step down if it meant helping me, so I chuckled and nodded over to the bowl of now thawed shrimp. “Okay okay, could you please peel the shrimp?”

(y/n) nodded and did as asked, getting right to work and we soon fell into a rhythm, dancing around each other with ease and I felt like nothing had changed, being with my (y/n) and cooking with her, unable to keep the smile off my face. (y/n) began to hum her mother’s song, and I couldn’t help but hum along.

Soon enough everything was done, along the way I had invited (y/n) to taste the sauce I made for the main dish, grinning as her eyes sparkled at the taste. “That’s wonderful” she muttered, holding her hand just under the chin as she licked her lips, clearly wanting more. I just went back to stirring it, making sure the vegetables were seasoned properly and cooked through before beginning to serve up our plates.

“Wine?” I asked, holding up two bottles, one red and one white-both easily paring with our dinner. She pointed at the one in my right hand and I nodded, she had always preferred that one over the other, and set to pouring two glasses, handing one to her and joining her at the counter, where our dinner had been set. “Bon appetit~” I purred, feeling a smile at my eyes as (y/n) happily dove in, nearly moaning as she took her first bite.

"Oh, my gods, this is the best thing I’ve ever had” she muttered, almost rushing to eat as I watched her with fond eyes, good to know my skills hadn't faltered in the last 900 years. She muttered something else under her breath, but I was practically hypnotized by her as she happily ate her food. I averted my eyes as she looked up at me, chuckling as she glanced down at my plate-which I hadn't touched yet. “Good to know my cooking is still good, I haven't done this in a long time.” I took a bite of the pasta and shrimp, nodding to myself. Yep, still got it.

“For a British dude, you sure know your spices” I nearly choked at that, holding a laugh as I looked to (y/n), who seemed to be holding back a laugh of her own as she stared at me with those wonderful eyes of hers-filled with delightful teasing. She let out a giggle as I rolled my eyes and gently pushed her shoulder. “ha-ha, laugh it up,” I chuckled, then paused, a smirk growing on my face. “because it’s true.” she burst into loud laughter, leaning over a bit as I continued to joke about. “We raided the world for their spices only to not use any of them.”

I smiled as (y/n) cackled, setting down her plate as she took a step back from the counter and held her stomach. I could still make her laugh, her wonderful laugh that would finally bless my ears again. Oh gods how I have missed her, and I had no plans of ever letting her drift away again.

When we finished I took her plate and mine-beginning to wash the dishes as (y/n) put the left-overs away, stealing an extra piece of shrimp as she did. She glanced away as I smirked at her from over my shoulder, chuckling as she tipped her head up and away like a puppy caught trying to steal food.

I peeked into the fridge, glancing back at (y/n) as she dried her hands and picked up her book. I took out a can of croissant dough and two chocolate bars; turning to (y/n) with a shy grin on my face, hoping she was in the mood for dessert. I just wanted to spend more time with her. “Dessert?” I asked, my shoulders relaxing as she beamed and nodded, reaching for the croissant dough and popping open the can while I busied myself with the chocolate.

We talked quietly as we waited for the dough to bake, sitting on the counter with our thighs touching. I loved listening to her talk, every word out of her lips was like music from the heavens, she had no regard for what she rambled about, just enjoying her time with me. I wondered if anything from the last hour had brought back any memories for her? I hoped so-I really wanted to kiss her-I wanted her to kiss me till I was breathless.

My eyes drifted to her lips, swallowing as she laughed quietly about some-post- she saw online or whatever. Fuck I really wanted to kiss her.

We were both jumped out of the conversation when the oven screamed at us and I quickly hopped off and put on some oven mitts-taking out the hot tray and letting the croissant cool for a few moments. (y/n) practically stared down the chocolate croissants like they were the only food in the world, her eyes practically sparkling. I laughed, picking one up and handing it to her as I sat on the counter, the tray now between us as (y/n) happily dug into the dessert. “fuck I love chocolate croissants,” She muttered and I couldn’t help but laugh again, grabbing one for myself and letting the chocolate melt on my tongue.

Fuck I forgot how good chocolate was.

We continued to talk; my eyes unable to leave her as she chattered away. Gods I really had missed her so much, we both perked up as Evie stepped into the room, her nose in the air as she took in the smell of chocolate croissants. “Evie~” (y/n) cheered, reaching out for her friend who quickly grabbed her hand and then a croissant. “how was dinner?”

“Boring” Evie groaned and I couldn’t help but laugh, “dinner itself was good but they are painfully white and rich.” She took a bite of the croissant as I hit my chest, nearly choking on my croissant as I laughed. She wasn’t wrong, nearly every one of the three families was boring as shit-it had been the main reason I chose Lucy all those years ago-she was interesting, bubbly and sweet. “god that’s good,” Evie muttered, talking about the croissant. “but yeah-nothing to talk about but marriage, money, n other boring shit like that.”

(y/n) just hummed, happy she hadn’t been a part of any those conversations, thanks to the pettiness of the alexander family-and I would be having a word with them about purposefully excluding Evie’s friend. “Sounds so exciting,” I said sarcastically, smiling down at (y/n) as she pushed my shoulder. Evie glanced between the two of us, and I had to stop myself from holding her stare-she knew there was more to the story, but (y/n) would be the one to discover it- it would be far too much for Evie to handle.

“So what have you two been doing for the last two hours?” Evie teased, giggling as (y/n) kicked her thigh, pouting at her friend as Evie continued to laugh. “I made her dinner” I started, chuckling at the look of surprise on Evie’s face, as if she didn’t think I could cook. Which-I could, and I was a damn good cook. “and then we both made these” I gestured to the croissants, then shrugged-there wasn’t much more to the story. “just…hanging out I suppose.”

“suppose,” (y/n) giggled to Evie, who laughed at my ‘eloquent’ words, I rolled my eyes with a fond smile, taking another croissant from the tray and taking a bite, hopping from the counter and started to pack up the leftover croissants. “Well, I have some things to attend to,” I handed the bag to (y/n), who happily took it and tilted her head at me. Gods I just wanted to take her face and kiss her. “enjoy your evening ladies.” I said instead, bowing out and biting my lip as I heard Evie tease (y/n) with their friend over the phone.

I saw Ms. Swift exit (y/n)’s room as I made my way into mine, nodding as she informed me (y/n)’s cocktail dress had been delivered. “thank you, Ms. Swift,” I muttered, closing my door behind me and sighing, rolling my shoulders back as I went back to my paperwork.

Later, I heard a small muffled scream come from (y/n)’s room, and as I went to check on her-I heard her mutter some frustrations to herself, talking about how she shouldn’t be thinking about me that way-I was her dead lover's brother after all. I smiled sadly. “oh darling,” I whispered, reaching up to clutch her ring that still hung around my neck. “I cannot wait for the moment I can hold you again.”

-

Viktoria curled her lip as she watched Walter and commoner chat away in Walter’s personal kitchen, deep burning hatred in her chest as she watched and heard how Walter so easily laughed and conversed with the woman. Who the hell was she? And how had she captured the master's attention so easily? How could she make him laugh like this when he had hardly spared her a glance within the last 500 years?

She glared you down as you slept through the night, wondering how much trouble you were worth as she thought about ripping your throat out.

-end of p4-

Oh wowie-it’s been a while huh? Sorry for the long wait after p3~ but I just got super fixated on other shit lol. But yeah-more Walter~~~

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Would love to read your thoughts on mankind divided/jensard scenes in system rift dlc.

Anon, my apologies for leaving this message unanswered in my inbox for so long! I've had draft versions of this sitting around unfinished for months now (seriously, you just try and stop me sharing my thoughts on this series), was always going to have thoughts to share on DX:MD, but being me, they have gotten long. So consider this post 1.

Anyhow, without further ado:

I have too many thoughts about Deus Ex: Mankind Divided (1/2)

It probably sounds a little odd to tell you that I put off playing Deus Ex: Mankind Divided for a lot longer than I might have if I hadn’t enjoyed its predecessor, Human Revolution, so much. For all its inarguable flaws, I still adored that game for its characters and the gameplay. And keen as I should have been for a sequel, Mankind Divided has a general reputation as a bit of a disappointment (and to summarise the whole rest of this review right here: it was).

Worse still, once I’d finished playing it, that was going to be it. No more Deus Ex sequels that might be better, no more playing as Adam Jensen. And given that the latest news on the DX series involves the cancelation of a game no-one even knew was in the works until they admitted they’d just scrapped it (WTF, people?), that looks final for the foreseeable future.

You know you’re invested in a property when you’re having that kind of reaction to it.

And having finally played it… yeah, Mankind Divided may be a much prettier game, and I definitely did have some fun playing it. But it’s a disappointment on every front I cared about. There are some genuinely good new gameplay elements, but it offers substantially less challenge than its predecessor, it’s buggy as hell, the characters are ill-used and bland, the worldbuilding has not improved, and the plot feels like an extended filler episode. Every really interesting plot beat alluded to here either had its resolution left for future installments, or has already happened off-screen.

So oh boy do I have thoughts on this one. We’ll start with worldbuilding and gameplay, because my thoughts on just those are long enough as it is.

Gameplay

Well, let’s start with the good. I genuinely enjoyed some of Jensen’s new augments. Being able to remote hack cameras, robots and other devices quickly became my preferred way of dealing with them. Letting you extend platforms and ladders via that mechanism was a great way of adding extra ways to get around too. Seriously, I’m a little amazed a toy that’s this much of a game-changer wasn’t introduced with a little more fanfare: many players probably never try it out at all.

I also dug the Tesla (multi-target non-lethal takedowns? Yes please!) and the new Icarus Dash aug, though I didn’t find nearly as many uses for them. Some of Jensen’s new augs even started to feel like you’ve got systems working together in genuinely creative ways! Smart vision + remote hacking will let you hack devices you can only see through walls, and the Tesla auto-targeting seems to work based on Jensen’s optics too. It’s not much, and god knows if it was even intentional, but I’m finally starting to feel like there’s real benefit to wiring all this shit into Jensen’s neurons, rather than being left wondering what all these augs even do that a bag full of gadgets couldn’t, and that ain’t nothing. (It’d be nice if Jensen’s super-secret-probably-doesn’t-even-exist new shielding aug wasn’t somehow in use by every other augmented enemy in this game, but hell, what can you expect at this point?)

Also in positives: no more scrapping robots and mech suits completely with a single EMP blast! EMP now only shuts them down temporarily so you can get some real hits in (takedown moves included). Flying drones make a solid addition to the enemy roster too. Also, using passwords to open doors now nets you EXP (so I feel a little less obligated to hack literally everything even if I’ve got the code), and your Ghost bonus is worth less, so I feel less bad when I miss out on it. There are a lot of little improvements like these.

Finally, though DXMD famously contains only a single proper boss battle, it was way better constructed than most of DXHR’s – engineered from the get-go to allow players to beat it with stealth tactics or by going in guns-blazing. (Technically, there’s also a second boss battle in an optional side-mission, but YMMV as to whether that counts.)

But many hours into the game, it was beginning to dawn on me that I’d had to actually use that new robot-disabling process all of once. I was well into my first trip out of Prague before I ran afoul of my first mine too, and even that was hidden in a very-optional area. There were still deadly areas full of gas or electrified, but upgrading for immunity seemed pointless, because there was always a convenient valve or off-switch close enough to reach just by taking the damage, even on the hardest difficulty. And where were the Boxguards? Drones and dudes in mech suits are all very well, but none of them have the wow-factor of a giant spider robot that can unfold out of a huge crate. DXHR had me navigating through fields of mines and infiltrating a huge military facility before I’d finished my very first stint in my home city, but 95% of DXMD was just regular human enemies. What gives?

Your milage may vary on how good HR’s boss battles were, but what it did have were some truly memorable set pieces. My original review made plenty out of the events where Jensen is trapped in a penthouse suite with an incoming SWAT team, or where he and his pilot Malik find themselves under assault from a large military force (PLUS boxguard!) forcing the player to make the call on whether to stay and defend her or just run. Figuring out how to make it through those sequences was an engaging challenge – even more so when you’re trying for non-lethal. Even after finishing the game, I found myself replaying both all over again just to try out different solutions.

But where HR gives you a 10-man SWAT team programmed to back each other up like pros, for its own analogous ‘set piece’ moment, DXMD locks Jensen in a room with… three drones. Which will never actually find you if you stay in the room you start in, and go down with a couple of shotgun hits each with regular ammo (and did I mention I was playing on the highest difficulty?) Another nominally-big "they’re coming for you"-moment sees Jensen’s apartment invaded by about three regular human enemies, no augs or mech suits, nothing. Is this a sequel aimed squarely at people who thought the last game was too hard?

The closest moment to the big Malik-rescue is an early event when a fellow agent comes under fire, and you have to try and get him out alive. But this fails to deliver for a couple of big reasons: one, the guy is a complete stranger to the player, so who cares if he lives or dies, and two, it happens so early in the game that I was still barely getting the hang of the controls again. Saving the dude’s life does mean that your coworkers will be less annoyed at you, and you can have a brief conversation with him back at home base that contributes nothing to the plot, but that’s it. It feels like something added as an afterthought.

There is one lovely set-piece moment later in DXMD which I enjoyed very much, in which you’re tasked with disabling ten security guards who might be carrying an important keycard at a public function without raising the alarm. That kind of stealth mission is exactly the kind of bullshit I play these things for. It’s followed by a section where you have to reach a well-guarded destination under a strict time limit (also good, though you won't have to go far to reach it). But the unwillingness of this game to ever turn the octane up past maybe a 4 made for a very monotone experience. Jensen can unlock so many crazy new powers in this game, but with this level of challenge, what are they even for?

None of this is helped by how damn buggy this game can be. Using a password not only gives you EXP, it will sometimes (but not always) give you that EXP multiple times over. More than one quest location just doesn’t appear with markers on the map at all – I had to resort to google to figure out where to go. The ghost bonus is given out so inconsistently that no-one on the internet seems sure what the requirements even are. And if I had a dollar for every crazy physics accident or enemy body that got stuck halfway through a wall and refused to let me pick it up and hide it somewhere… I mean, I wouldn’t be a millionaire, but I’d be able to afford a decent lunch at least. Jensen is much better at dragging enemies around corners out of sight during takedown moves than he used to be, but he’d better be, because that might be all the moving-the-body you get to do.

And plenty of the new ‘additions’ to this game are truly frustrating. There’s a crafting system now, because every game apparently needs crafting, but there’s only one kind of crafting material, and everything you can craft with it is available from the get-go. A player never need be stuck at a locked door anymore, because you can always craft yourself a magic device that will unlock anything at any time (unless it requires a special-unhackable-keycard, which is not really better). Out of crafting material? No worries, you can also install an aug that lets you disassemble unwanted crap into more! Out of energy? Same solution – just craft yourself more!

And if you thought you weren’t wasting enough inventory space on ammo back in HR, well, now all guns take three different types of ammo: standard, EMP, and armour-piercing. Out of EMP grenades? No problem, you can now disable any robot just as easily with a regular handgun with EMP ammo! Or using your Tesla, or your stun gun, or EMP-generating throwable machines, or your remote hacking power… I mean what are EMP grenades even for anymore? Oh, but not every gun actually takes all kinds of ammo – your regular shotgun only takes standard and EMP, and you’ll need a special shotgun to use armour-piercing ammo – at which point the question becomes, so why are we calling them all shotgun ammo? Realising too late I’m carrying the wrong-calibre ammo is not the kind of realism gaming needs, and this is no trivial problem: all those ammo types still look the same, and you may not even know which you’re picking up until it’s in your inventory.

You don’t even really need armour-piercing ammo – as covered above, a couple of regular shotgun blasts will take down a drone just fine. But by god, can you end up with an inventory full of ‘shotgun ammo’ that doesn’t actually go in the shotgun you’re carrying. Yay!

The game also boasts multiple different collectibles that do something if you link your Squeenix account or whatever – and god, the amount of shit in this game that was clearly included by mandate of some marketing committee makes me very sad. I will never know what it could’ve been without all this bullshit tacked on overhead, but I’m betting it was a much better experience.

The one big criticism of DX:HR that the team behind MD have clearly tried to address is the complaint that it’s ""not enough like the original Deus Ex,"" but the most obvious new callbacks are like the punchline to a joke. The most obvious ‘authentic’ new feature is that many ‘merchants’ are now not proper shops at all, but just some dude who will offer you up to three different items you can buy from a dialogue prompt, which was a laughably outdated way of implementing a ‘shop’ even when the original Deus Ex did it. Worse, map icons don’t distinguish between these bozos and real shops, so if you’re looking for somewhere to offload valuable items that are clogging up your inventory space for cash (and you will be, because praxis kits are expensive), you might go through several non-shops where you can’t actually sell things before finding a real one. Surely this is exactly the Deus Ex experience everyone was missing!

Oh, and you can throw pot plants now. Whoop-de-do.

So here we are. Mines aren’t a problem because there aren’t any. Environmental hazards aren’t a problem because you can always switch them off. Hacking isn’t a problem because you can make your own keys. Maintaining your Ghost Bonus for not being detected is hardly worth the trouble, because you probably won’t get it anyway. Drones do pose some new hazards in that you can be seen from more places, but robots still mostly aren’t a problem because there are a million ways to deal with them. Good set-ups for double-takedowns are so much fewer and further between, and you still can’t use them if one guy is sitting down. And this game’s idea of a high-octane ‘challenge’ is three drones in an area with plenty of hiding places.

Human Revolution was the game that got me into FPS gameplay and made me to adore stealth mechanics. I went into it as such a complete newb that I almost gave up a single mission in, and came out such a total convert that I’ve gone on to fall in love with whole other FPS franchises (RE7 and 8 mostly – I still can’t really do lethal gun violence against human enemies). So to come to MD, seasoned and keen for more, only to find they’ve filed off every edge the thing had is insulting. The challenge was never a bug, it was a feature.

Worldbuilding & Environment Design

When it came out, Human Revolution (rightly) took a lot of criticism for its ham-handed attempts to build a plot around the moral quandaries of human augmentation. Here, with the sequel, we can clearly see that the writing team have understood none of that criticism whatsoever.

In the wake of the uninspiringly-named ‘Aug Incident’ at the preceding game’s climax, augmented people are now an oppressed minority – treated like second-class citizens, hassled by police at checkpoints, and expected to ride in a separate car on the train.

I do have to give the game some credit in that putting the player through all that is pretty effective at making you feel Jensen’s own frustrations. But the attempt to turn literal cyborgs into an oppressed minority works about as well that time David Cage tried to do it with robots, or that time Netflix tried to do it with Orcs, or god knows how many other examples of ill-considered fantasy racism that really do not hit the mark. The ‘victims’ here are people who’ve bought into a questionable new technology and been burned when it went horribly wrong, and MD is trying to portray that through a world where they’re all being made to sit on the back of the bus? Ai-yai-yai.

It does not help that this new struggle for augmented rights is now the whole damn story. Yet again, a single issue defines the whole universe, and yet its handling is one big mess.

It's staggering just how blind the writing is to the impact that capitalism ought to be having on y’know, their cyberpunk universe – let alone the fact that augmentation does give people, y’know, superpowers. A technology as game-changing as this doesn’t just disappear overnight because public perception has shifted, there’s far too much money in it. Where are the shady companies starting huge factories in augmented gettos, taking advantage of all those workers with handy superstrength and no other job prospects? The new augmentation manufacturers insisting their augs are the only safe ones? MD would have us believe that public opinion has shifted against the augmented so definitively that there are no longer even any augmented soldiers working in military or security firms. But surely whoever finds the best way to sneak secretly-augmented soldiers into their ranks ought to have an insane advantage – especially with so many augmented soldiers suddenly out of work and willing to do almost anything to make a buck?

In their rush to reduce the augmented to just another oppressed racial minority, everything that ought to set them apart gets ignored. This is a group of people a) with superpowers, b) that may be completely invisible to the casual observer, and c) a history of going suddenly apeshit and attacking people – so where’s the fear and paranoia? Anti-aug prejudice means you’ll be hassled by cops and showered with slurs out in public, because everyone knows you’re an aug at 20 paces, and isn’t scared of you. But no-one’s giving you a wide berth because you might have a fucking gun welded into your arm. Cops aren’t calling for all the backup in the fucking district before hassling you about taking the wrong train carriage. No-one’s getting beaten up after being incorrectly mistaken for augmented when they’re just a regular guy with a weird scar. Is this really the best we can do? Prejudice against different groups takes different forms, even in the real world where no-one gets superpowers out of the deal!

There are a handful of breadcrumbs scattered through the game to reflect that fact that being augmented has some original consequences. That neuropozine now has a lively black-market street trade makes plenty of sense. You do meet one poor guy still dealing with the trauma of having killed his own grandson in a psychotic haze during the Aug Incident (seriously, his story broke my heart in the best possible way), another still suffering neurological damage after having his own neural augs removed, and have to figure out whether a messed-up former Belltower soldier might be responsible for the death of his ex. The guy building the next big ghetto is definitely trying to profit off the situation, and seems to be hiring augmented folks to do the building, but the notion that being augmented might make them better workers goes unacknowledged. You don’t even get to meet anyone suffering from neuropozine withdrawal, even when you do visit the ghetto. The world isn’t suddenly full of amputees who’ve had their augs removed, there’s no underground black market for human limb transplants – it’s absurd how little thought’s gone into this.

But as so often with fantasy racism, maybe the biggest problem is that, in a world where we’ve firmly established that augmentation leaves you vulnerable to being driven haywire at the push of a button, too much of that public distrustis justified. Even without the mind-control element, many augmentations make people dangerous in ways the public shouldn’t have to be okay with. Nor is it a major source of conflict that dovetails well with whatever the Illuminati is actually supposed to be up to in this game. Kidnapping a bunch of scientists as in Human Revolution may be a huge cliché, but at least it’s a goal that adds up.

Setting-wise, most of the game is set in Prague this time, which is at least different – you won’t find many big-budget games set in any Eastern European city. But though there are plenty of Czech natives in the main cast of characters, I could not tell you why Prague was chosen. It’s a reasonably logical place to put a major Interpol office, but, just for example, how does this new anti-aug movement compare to past racial tensions of the region? I don’t know enough about Prague to tell you, and if an answer is buried somewhere in the many in-game documents I skim-read in playing MD, I did not notice it.

Maybe Prague natives will have got as much of a kick out of seeing their city in this game as I did seeing an Aussie running an Interpol division, or maybe they’re all up in arms about misrepresentation. But to say the setting feels under-utilised is pretty much par for the course of everything else in this game. I don’t even know how Jensen feels about living there, if he’s got any opinion on it at all.

The highlight of your away-missions is a trip to the new aug ghetto, aka the Útulek Complex, aka Golem City. The whole structure is an intimidating maze of prefab cube-houses, and it’s the one place that feels like we’re finally committing to cyberpunk dystopian vibe. It’s not pretty or nice to navigate, but it shouldn’t be: it’s a great location that feels refreshingly unique. Solid work, no notes.

Other locations mostly don’t deliver you much beyond the same generic office or para-military environments you’ve seen a thousand times. There’s a mission to Switzerland, so the outside is full of snow and mountains, and a mission to London, so the outside is a helipad and you won’t leave the building. And there’s an intro mission to Dubai, where you have to fight some terrorists, because some fuckwit decided to open this game by trying to convince everyone we’re playing a generic military shooter for some fucking reason. Oh, and the outdoors is sandy, of course, but you’ll pretty much just see the one building anyway. Otherwise, hope you like Prague, because Prague is pretty well it.

MD has dutifully stepped up to the expectation of giving us multiple different ways into every location, but most left me feeling that less can definitely be more. There are so many different ways into some buildings that I kept getting lost in them: this isn’t simply giving the player choice, it’s building redundancy on top of redundancy. I like exploring new environments, but losing track of what I’m even trying to do isn’t a plus.

It's hard to feel like the team behind DX really get cyberpunk, and not just because capitalism confuses them. A minor plot point involves a cult who worship a machine god (another weak callback to the original DX). One of their members has been busy trying to develop a way for their members to upload themselves – only to be found in a mysterious coma. So obviously, he’s succeeded in digitising his own brain, right? Or at least mind-wiped himself in the attempt? But no, whatever happened to him is never commented on whatsoever. Not even when a group of his fellow cult members attempt to upload themselves using his work. It’s like the payoff has been lost in translation somewhere.

Though to at least end this segment on a more positive note, when Mankind Divided does, inevitably, send us to the Obligatory Brothel Set, we do find male sex workers among their employees, who will flirt with Jensen (you know, in addition to the many more female ones). So the franchise that promotes itself with so many filthy shirtless!Jensen pics has at least acknowledged, in universe, that there are people willing to pay for hot male cyborg eye candy. You can always enjoy the little things.

There’s another level to the worldbuilding, of course – the question of how well it serves the plot. But to get into the plot, I’m going to need a whole new post.