#plus them ending up in the final three?? uh yes??

[noahtally-famous]

simply wild that I’m lowkey entertaining the idea of making a bridgette/courtney/gwen wt au fic (legit forgot what their ship name is rip) bc I fell into a bridgney hole, and then I started thinking abt gwidgette, and then I started thinking abt gwourtney, and then—

[benispunk]

Lucky Number

logan howlett x reader

Logan wants to know why 12 is Y/N's lucky number. He might be falling in love all over again.

TW: language

Masterlist

\I/

Y/n’s favorite time of the day was the evening. Not because she could finally relax, have some time for herself, enjoy the silence of her room without, most of the time, anyone in the mansion interrupting it… Well, maybe yes, it was that. But that’s not the point. 

Y/n’s favorite time of the day was the evening because she could finally spend time with Logan outside of the school’s routine, out of everyone's eye sights, just the two of them against the world.

And this evening wasn’t any different. She absolutely adored those moments with him as he looked and sounded so relaxed, and she felt as if she was falling more and more in love with him every single time.

She had bought a bottle wine and some appetizers that she had hidden in the kitchen all day, just for their special night, and Logan would do the same. Even though their relationship was official to everyone in the mansion, they always felt the need to sneak into each other’s rooms like teenagers in love.

One time, Logan was discreetly walking towards her door with two glasses in hand and his bottle of whiskey under his arm when he heard someone cough at the end of the corridor. He turned around, startled. Scott had been standing there, probably waiting to catch one of the two lovers and embarrass them. Logan stood there, saying nothing before flipping him off and entering Y/N’s room. 

She sat curled up on her bed, a glass of red wine in hand, as she lazily picked at a plate of cheese and crackers between sips. Logan sat next to her, leaning against the headboard, holding his own glass of whiskey, his eyes glinting with amusement. He could stay there for days, listening to her talk, laugh, watching her smile. Anything that had to do with her, he needed to be there. 

They had been playing a ridiculous card game for the last 20 minutes where you had to pick a number between one and twenty and then pick two cards, the closest to their number wins.

They were laughing again when Logan leaned forward with another challenge, his grin cocky. “Alright, one more time.”

Y/N smiled wide and quickly answered, “Twelve!”

Logan narrowed his eyes at her this time, his smirk softening into something more curious. “Again with twelve?” he asked, amused. “That’s the third time tonight you’ve picked twelve.”

Y/N blinked. “No, it’s not,” she said, a little too defensively, taking a bigger sip of wine. Maybe she should slow down with the drinking part.

Logan chuckled, the sound deep and warm. “Yeah, it is. You even won with that number.” He gave her a knowing look. “And now this. You pickin' twelve on purpose or somethin’? Are you cheating?”

She gasped at the accusation, « How dare you accuse me of such a crime? A girl can’t have a lucky number anymore. » She sipped some more wine dramatically, which made Logan laugh. How much she loved that sound.

Logan’s grin widened as he leaned in a bit closer, his curiosity getting the better of him. "Lucky number, huh? What makes twelve so special?" he asked, raising an eyebrow and swirling the whiskey in his glass.

Y/N felt her breath catch slightly, the warmth from the wine making her feel just a bit too relaxed. She hadn’t even realized she'd been picking twelve that much. It just... came out. It was her lucky number indeed. And now, Logan was asking about it. Oh no.

She gave a casual shrug, trying to play it off. "Oh, you know… twelve’s just... a good number. Balanced. You know, 1 plus 2 equals 3, and… uh, three’s cool."

Logan tilted his head, staring at her with an amused expression that said he wasn’t buying a word of it. « Then why not pick three? »

She could feel the heat rising to her face even more. He was too perceptive. She tried to shrug again, but it came off awkward. « I—I don’t know! Twelve just feels… lucky, I guess."

But Logan wasn’t letting it go. Of coure, he wasn’t. He leaned in even closer, his voice a low tease. "You’re hiding something." His tone was playful, but his eyes held a tenderness that made her feel even more flustered. "Why twelve, darlin’?"

Y/N's heart raced as she realized there was no escaping the truth. She hadn’t even thought about it consciously until now, but of course, twelve was special. It was his birthday— October 12. And the more she thought about it, the more it embarrassed her. It felt too sweet, too sentimental to admit out loud, but Logan's gaze was gentle, and she knew he wouldn't let up until she told him.

She cleared her throat and bit her lip, looking anywhere but at him. "It's... It’s your birthday. » she finally mumbled, barely above a whisper, still trying to avoid his eyes. "October 12. That’s why it’s... my lucky number."

There was a pause— a silence that stretched just long enough for her to regret saying it, but when she glance up at Logan, she saw something different in his expression. His face softened, his eyes widening just a bit before something warm and quiet settled in them. For a second, he seemed speechless, which rarely happened with Logan.

« My birthday?" he asked, his voice softer than before, as if he couldn’t quite believe it.

Y/N nodded, feeling vulnerable and a little embarrassed. « Yes. I’m sorry this is so embarrass— » 

“Put your glass down,” he said firmly, cutting her off mid-sentence.

“What?” she asked, confusion clouding her expression.

Without missing a beat, Logan took her glass from her hand and placed it gently on the nightstand beside his own. Just as she opened her mouth to protest, he closed the distance between them, capturing her lips in a tender kiss.

Time seemed to pause as they melted into each other, the warmth of the moment enveloping them. Every worry, every ounce of embarrassment faded away as Y/N felt herself sink deeper into the kiss, the intoxicating taste of whiskey on his lips mixing with the sweetness of the wine on hers.

Her lucky number was his birthday. How fucking wonderful. What did he even do to deserve that? To deserve her. His grip on her tightened slightly, pulling her closer as if he wanted to fuse their bodies together, to ensure that nothing could ever come between them. How lucky he was.

When they finally broke away, he held her gaze with a softness that made her heart race. 

“I love you so much,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

The moment hung between them. Y/N could see the sincerity in his gaze, the way he was allowing himself to be vulnerable. Her heart ached with love. But he wasn’t done.

His hand cradled her face, his thumb brushing lightly against her cheek. “You keep doin’ this—showin’ me how much I mean to you… » He paused, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, « I’m falling for you all over again,” he confessed, his voice low and raw. 

Y/N felt her cheeks heat up, a smile breaking through her earlier embarrassment. « See why twelve’s my lucky number? »

Logan laughed softly, a glint of mischief in his eyes, before he suddenly lunged forward, pinning her down onto the bed. Y/N squealed in surprise, laughter bubbling up as he captured her lips in a quick kiss. The warmth of his body over hers ignited sparks of electricity that left her breathless.

As they broke apart, he held her gaze, his eyes gleaming with adoration. The warmth between them crackled with unspoken affection, and Y/N felt her heart swell. If he was her lucky charm, she was his too.

With a gentle tug, he pulled her closer, their foreheads touching as they breathed each other in. Logan leaned in for another kiss, this one deeper and more lingering, their lips brushing together softly. The moment was pure magic. 

Y/N felt happiness enveloping her, knowing that luck wasn’t just about numbers; it was about sharing her life with him.

XXX

[xetlynn]

Twilight- Youngest Shadow: Chapter Four, Field Trips

(Alice X Reader X Jasper)

[three] [four] [five]

Bella and I stood next to each other, we had just gotten to our science field trip. I observed Bella’s eyes that went to the Cullens as usual. I then hear foot steps behind and before I can warn Bella, Mike pretends to be Dr. Frankenstein.

“Look! You’re moving. You’re alive!” He shouts, both Bella and I cringe. “Yeah false alarm.”

“Actually, I’m glad you’re not dead cause- well, that would suck, plus I wanted to ask you even though it’s like a month away…” He continued to talk, not even paying attention to the fact that she wasn’t facing his direction.

I watch Edward look up and over at our direction. Bella finally snaps out of it and looks over at Mike. It was a little late.

“So, what do you think?” He notices her blank expression. “You want to go? To prom. With me.”

I cover my mouth, looking away after seeing her horrified look. I try my best to refrain from laughing.

“Prom, as in dance. I uh- have to go somewhere. To Jacksonville. Yeah.” She sprouts out her lie.

“You can’t go another weekend?”

“Non-refundable ticket. Maybe you should ask Jessica.” We all glance over to across the lawn where Jessica stood. Mike then looks at me and my eyes widen.

“Don’t think about it. You’re not my type.” I sternly tell him.

He presses his lips together, sighing then going over to Jessica.

Both Bella and I make eye contact, laughing from that horrible ordeal.

Throughout the day I kept seeing two specific Cullens looking my way. And as that happened, each time I would look behind me as if there was something more interesting there.

Of course I would sneak some looks at them too but I’m hoping they didn’t notice or I wasn’t as obvious as they were.

We were now walking through the greenhouse and I saw Bella try to go up to Edward so instead of staying in between that I decide to walk ahead. Moving passed Edward and accidentally bumping into non other than Alice who seemed to have gripped tighter to Jasper.

Her grip loosened after seeing me. “I’m so sorry.” I bowed my head down a tiny bit to not look them in the eyes. She smiled motioning with her hand. “It’s quite alright.” Her voice was angelic, my face warmed up a bit and I start to feel embarrassed at how I was acting.

“I won’t be a bother, sorry again.” I stammered, going to walk away but she gently takes my hand for a second. I gasp at how cold she was.

“You can hang with us if you’d like.” My eyes wander over to Jasper who does a small nod, agreeing with his partner.

I shrug as a why not, finally straightening my posture and looking them in the eyes for only seconds at a time before looking somewhere else.

“Did those hurt?” She points to my piercings, since I flinch for a moment she instantly takes her hand back. “Oh, not really. I guess my tongue did but only the healing part.” I stick my tongue out, showing her. She stares at it.

I smile, closing my mouth, her nose scrunches in response. “I couldn’t imagine the feeling of metal in my mouth all the time.” She mumbles, almost inaudible.

“It doesn’t bother you after awhile. It kinda becomes you.” I say, purposefully adding a little dramatics at the end. I notice Jasper watching me intently. I smile and him and I didn’t even know his eyes could get wider but they did.

“Here, walk in between us.” Alice takes my sleeved arm, nod even between the fabric it still feels cold. I wonder if it bothers her.

I do as suggested, Jasper doesn’t seem so tense anymore either.

“You play Volleyball, I heard?” She asks, I grin just by the fact that she knew. “Yes! Our last game is coming up.”

“Really?” Alice looks up at me, I nod about to say something but Jasper beats me.

“We should go to it.”

My eyes light up but quickly I shot it down going back to a neutral expression.

“Yeah that would be awesome.” I agree.

For the rest of the trip I stood next to the two, it felt different but fresh as it wasn’t the same people I’ve been talking to for so long.

Someone other than Bella, Charlie, Jacob and Angela that enjoyed talking to me without using me to talk to my sister.

The buses arrived and we made our way over there, I saw Bella and Edward talking and it seemed to be upsetting my sister. I begin to walk over, picking up the pace and Alice joins.

“Hi, will you be riding with us?” She asks Bella but before my sister can say anything Edward interrupts. “No our bus is full.” He turns to go on the bus.

“Here’s my number, we should be-“

“Alice, come on.” Edward grabs her, stopping her from giving me the tiny paper. Jasper joins them, he gives me a sympathetic look and I give a small smile in return.

What just happened..?

“Your mother called, again.” Charlie calls after Bella who just stormed into the house trying to go upstairs to her room.

“Your fault for telling her about the accident.” Bella shrugs.

“She always did know how to worry.” His voice sounded sad. “But she’s changed, too. She seems happy. Phil sounds all right.”

“He is.” Bella goes up the stairs, I watch her spit the wedding photo Charlie still hasn’t seemed to take down.

The next day at lunch I stared at the Cullen table, unaware that I was doing it as I was thinking. Looking right at Alice and Jasper, infatuated with their relationship. Wondering what it was like behind closed doors. What kind of people they truly were. Why were they so nice to me at the field trip.

“La Push, baby. You in?” Eric and both my sister and I.

“Should I know what that means?” Bella raises an eyebrow.

“La Push beach, down on the Quileute rez. We’re all going after school. Big waves coming in.” Mike further explains. I already knew as Jacob had told me about the waves.

“And I don’t just surf the internet.” Eric makes a horrible joke.

“Eric, you stood up once. On a foam board.” Jessica called him out and even though I’m not fond of her. That was pretty funny.

“There’s whale watching too. You both should come with.” Angela chimes in and I smile at her.

“I’ll only go if you are.” I nudge her since she was right next to me. Her eyes widen at first but then she grins back.

“La Push baby.”

“I’ll go you stop saying that.” Bella says.

I knew Jake would be there with the others.

So of course I’m going to go. Plus, Angela is pretty cool. I love hanging out with her.

As Bella gets up to get food from the salad bar, I stand up as well but to go to the bathroom. “Where you going? Lunch isn’t over.” Eric questions me, they all look at me and I roll my eyes before turning to look at them. “I can’t piss anymore?”

Only reason I truly sit with them is for Bella and now Angela.

“Gosh you can’t ask questions anymore.” Jessica mutters, thinking I wouldn’t have heard. I raise my eyebrows, giving her a look. She presses her lips together and I head to the bathroom like I was going to do.

I enter the restroom, I actually wasn’t going to use it but to take a minute to myself before classes and everything. I normally am not overwhelmed so easily but something came over me like whiplash.

I heard the door open. “Sorry.” I whisper, going to get out of the persons way. “Hey, you alright?” The voice was small, gentle and I knew exactly who it was

“Oh, hey Alice. Yeah, I’m fine.” I force a smile, she stares at my face for a few seconds as if she was noticing me for the first time. Her expression was blank. Now it looks like she is staring off into space. I wave my hand for a minute, wondering if she’s okay.

Suddenly a smile appears upon her face. “If you say so, sweetheart.” She acts as if nothing happened. Going towards the mirror to fix her hair even though it laid perfectly. I watched every movement.

“So, you ready for that big game tomorrow?” She asks, I let out a shaky breath, laughing a bit at myself for being so nervous.

“Big time. Everyone will be there. We’ll make the paper if we win.” I tell her and she turns to face me once again.

“Really? That’s huge!” She squeals like it was actually important to her. “Yeah um, and I was thinking there’s this thing today. You should come, bring Jasper too.” I start,

Her head turns to the side. “We’re going to the beach if you’re interested.”

“Which one?”

I perk up to her answer, not expecting her to actually be interested.

“La Push.” I watch her expression falter the tiniest bit.

“Oh, how many people?”

“Uh, quite a bit.” I frown.

“I would love to. Really but Jasper has pretty bad social anxiety.” She sadly tells.

“I totally get it. Don’t worry. I’ll see you both at my game tomorrow though, right?” She seemed relieved by my response.

“Of course.”

“I keep thinking Eric’s going to ask me to prom, then he just doesn’t.” Angela tells Bella and I as we walk by the driftwood of the beach.

“You should ask him.” I tell her, Bella nods agreeing. “Take control. You’re a strong independent woman.” Bella exclaims like a motivational speaker.

“I am?”

“Totally.”

“Bella!? [Name]!” We three look up to see Jacob, Sam and Embry.

“Yes, you are.” I tell Angela before we acknowledge Jacob and end this conversation with her thinking to herself.

“Guys, this is Jacob.” I say.

“Are you stalking us?” Bella jokes.

“You’re on my rez remember?” He reminds her, “also you surfing? [Name] I’m surprised you’re not suited up too.” I just flip him off. “Definitely not.” Bella says.

“Keep her company, her date bailed.” Jessica teases and this is where I’m glad I’m not close with these people and they didn’t join me to the bathroom and heard my conversation.

Also I don’t think they would be cool with the idea of girls finding other girls attractive… sexually.

“What date?” Eric butts in.

“She invited Edward.”

“To be polite.” Bella argues, obviously embarrassed. “I think it’s nice she invited him. No one ever does.” Angela inquires, I think she is so sweet.

“Because Cullens a freak.” Mike sharply tells. “You got that right.” Sam speaks up and i grimace, not expecting that from him.

“You know them?” Bella questions.

“The Cullens don’t come here.”

I notice Jacob give Sam a look.

Everyone kind of stands there awkwardly and Bella ends up pulling Jacob aside, and she seems different. Like she’s trying to be flirtatious with him. And Jacob still having that puppy love crush is absolutely falling for it. I shake my head, sighing hoping he doesn’t get hurt. But I have a feeling Bella’s going to accidentally do so.

I go over to Sam and Embry as Angela decides to hand around Eric. “You got a little hot-headed out there.” I poke Sam who huffs in response. “Cullens are that bad?” I turn to Embry who looks down.

“You’ve heard the story before at the campfire, [Name]” Sam says, basically telling me I should remember one of these stories that I was told years ago. I press my lips together, shrugging my shoulders. “The Cullens were supposedly descended from an enemy clan. Does that ring a bell?”

I shake my head, “not really.”

“They claimed to be different than the normal enemy. So we made a treaty with them. If they promised to stay off Quileute lands we wouldn’t expose what they really were to humans.” Sam explains further, cutting it short than what Billy would have said.

“What are they-“

A scream emits from further down near the water, it was Angela being chased by Eric who holds a dead crustacean.

I end up not repeating my question as it seems to upset Sam. Going to join Jake and my sister who sat together.

Chapter four😨

Edited

[silverwhittlingknife]

hi Silver! o/ because that fanart made me wonder - would you happen to know when/where Dick's stuffed elephant plush Zitka turns up in the comics?

GREETINGS CAM <3333 THAT ART WAS SO CUTE

Yeah, I think your instincts are right - it's a truly adorable bit of transformative fandom, but I'm 95% percent sure it's not comics canon. Barbara has canon plushies, but I don't think anyone else does.

I got kinda invested in the investigation (it's hard to prove a negative!) and I ended up typing out an entire History of Elinore/Zitka, so, uh, if you're curious, meet me below the cut for:

Where does Elinore / Zitka - the animal - appear in comics?

Did Dick ever have a stuffed elephant toy in comics?

Where does Elinore / Zitka appear in comics?

We're gonna go in chronological order!

Dick's circus elephant friend was first created for practical reasons: in Batman 436, Marv Wolfman does a big expanded flashback to Dick's circus backstory as a way to subtly show us Tim before officially introducing him (so that we can have a technically-solvable mystery-of-Tim's-identity in LPoD). In this comic, there's an elephant named Elinore who loves Dick:

Aww. Such a cute elephant!

Batman 436 comes out in August 1989. New Titans 60 comes out a few months later, in November, and guess what? When Dick visits the circus, he is suddenly surprised by an unexpected blast from the past! It turns out that even though it's been years, Elinore still remembers him!

Here's the part where Elinore remembers Dick:

SUCH a cute elephant. I love her.

(Guess who else still remembers Dick even though it was so long ago. Guess which other character is about to be an unexpected blast from the past. Guess which character Elinore is directly paralleling guess guess guess sorry everything is about Dick and Tim in my mind but I can focus I swear)

Four years later, in 1993, Batman: The Animated Series retells Dick's origin story. They like and keep Wolfman's elephant, but they change her name to Zitka:

Wolfman doesn't return to the elephant beyond those two appearances, and a few years down the line, New Titans gets cancelled and Wolfman's not writing Dick anymore anyway. So the animal gets abandoned for a while, until Devin Grayson, a fan of both Wolfman and B:tAS, revives the Wolfman-era Titans team in JLA/Titans and then the ongoing series Titans 1999.

Grayson then brings back the elephant in a flashback to Dick's past in Titans 16 (Jun 2000), where she imports the B:tAS name. Sometimes I'm skeptical of TV-to-comics imports, but honestly, I endorse this one. You lose the alliteration, which is a shame, but IMO Zitka is a better elephant name than Elinore.

Here's Dick with the newly-christened Zitka in Titans 16:

Grayson also briefly references the elephant in Gotham Knights 20 and - in a final angsty callback - in Nightwing 88 (Feb 2004), where Zitka tries futilely to comfort Dick in the midst of his trauma conga line:

... And... honestly, I think that's it for comic appearances? The two Wolfman comics plus the three Grayson comics.

Both Wolfman and Grayson are writing multiple titles - Batman, New Titans, Titans, Gotham Knights, and Nightwing between the two of them, spanning a big chunk of Dick's post-Crisis canon - and both writers use the elephant for heartwarming moments of nostalgia, which means if you're doing a post-Crisis readthrough for Dick, Elinore/Zitka feels memorable. But I don't think she actually shows up that much.

For post-2011, I am not as well-informed - throwing this out to the dash? anyone know? - but I feel like Zitka the heartwarming symbol of Dick's heartwarming circus past is, uh, thematically very at odds with the Court of Owls evil!circus vibes, so my instinct is that this story element was almost certainly dropped in the reboot.

Did Dick ever have a stuffed elephant toy in comics?

In WFA, yes; in main comics continuity, no. Technically, I have not read every comic ever published, so I could be wrong!! But I don't think so.

Below, find my rambling reasoning on the tonal vibes of pre-Crisis, post-Crisis, and post-2011, and why this particular story element doesn't seem right to me for the first two.

Pre-Crisis (...okay, mostly the Silver Age): stuffed animal, yes or no?

tl;dr no, requires too much background knowledge on the part of the reader, plus the elephant wasn't a thing until later

Elinore doesn't get created until post-Crisis, but also just generally, pre-Crisis callbacks are more along the lines of this reference in Batman 129 (published in 1960), where, wow, Batman and Robin are hunting jewel thieves - and it turns out Robin recognized this strongman! BUT HOW?!

The comic goes on to recap Dick's entire origin story in flashback, on the assumption that you may not know it.

(BTW, if you'd like to know more about Haly's Circus throughout the years, nightwingology has a great post here summarizing a lot of fun plotlines and characters!)

Basically: Silver Age comics are very self-consciously episodic and kid-friendly; they're not generally gonna do overly-elaborate callbacks because they don't know what comics their kid readers may have randomly picked up or remember.

By the time of post-Crisis, comic books were being written for an adult audience buying from the direct market, i.e. readers who are collecting whole runs & don't need or want Dick's origin story to be recapped to us in full every time it's referenced. That's why in post-Crisis, we get stuff like "hey, neat, this particular soda brand is getting mentioned in several different books!!" or "in order to understand this story arc, buy SIXTEEN DIFFERENT COMICS in FIVE DIFFERENT RUNS and read them ALL ACCORDING TO A NUMBERED ORDER and also you better be following the individual plotlines and recognize these five minor characters who we don't bother to introduce!! Good luck!!" But the elaborate post-Crisis plotlines - and subtler worldbuilding like a stuffed animal callback to Dick's backstory - don't make a lot of story sense UNLESS you're imagining your readers as completionist adult fans.

So IMO a stuffed animal wouldn't be a pre-Crisis thing unless it was The Episodic Story Of the Week, and I don't think a stuffed animal is action-adventure-y enough for the fast-paced storytelling of the Silver Age. (Unless it, like, came to life and tried to eat you or something.)

Post-Crisis: stuffed animals, yes or no?

tl;dr: no, Dick's a manly tough guy, he's not gonna have a stuffed animal, that'd be lame, like something Tim might do

Part of the edgy grimdark adult vibes in 80s/90s comics is that some characters who used to be kinda silly & goofy & lighthearted - like Batman and Robin - get reimagined as Serious and Angsty and Edgy in a Tough Cool Manly Brooding Way. This massively affects characterization for Bruce, Dick, and Bruce and Dick's relationship.

(I obviously love this change & love the tense Bruce-and-Dick interactions, but plenty of fans of the earlier fluffy comics really disliked the edgy retcons of Miller / Wolfman / Starlin / et al.)

The upshot is that post-Crisis is a period when you could have a recurring reference like a stuffed elephant, but you wouldn't have a stuffed elephant, not for Dick. I think a toy like that would be too cutesy / childish / effeminate to give a male character in post-Crisis, unless you were poking fun at him.

Now, you could probably let Tim have a stuffed animal, because Tim is sometimes cool but also sometimes a tryhard loser who is faking being cool and not entirely pulling it off (see e.g. the Robin comic where he practices tough-guy faces in the mirror, or the Teen Titans comic where Conner discovers his cringy Enya CD, or when he's fanboying over Connor and it's awkward, etc etc.). A stuffed animal would be deeply embarrassing, and you'd have to be careful to compensate by having Tim do something cool afterward - but Tim's character concept allows for "he's kind of a loser sometimes."

But Dick isn't!! In post-Crisis, Dick's a tough / impressive / "cool guy" character, the kind of guy anyone would want to be, even in the flashbacks where he's Robin, and even in the stories where he's more lighthearted than angsty. It'd be kinda lame for Dick to have a stuffed elephant, so he wouldn't. I feel like Dick would be more likely to poke fun at it if someone had one, like when he's making fun of Wally for liking the Hardy Boys. Dick could have a Batman action figure, at most, and if he had one he would have it ironically.

Basically: in post-Crisis, a male character hugging a stuffed elephant feels more likely to be a punchline to me, not something poignant. (Even with Tim, Tim could have an embarrassing stuffed animal, but he couldn't hug it when sad - that's too far. Maybe Booster Gold might do this. Probably he wouldn't, but spiritually, he would. Sorry Booster ilu! <3)

Instead, Dick instinctively deals with his inner turmoil like the TORTURED ACTION HERO he is: by punching things and brooding and yelling and joining the mob and sleeping on rooftops and going on obsessive secret missions and acquiring Angsty Stubble!! Just like Batman!

(Technically I don't know if Bruce ever joined the mob but you know he would.)

Anyway as you know this is my favorite continuity and I am poking fun affectionately, but uh, yeah sdfsfdsfs. No stuffed animals.

Post-2011 / Infinite Frontier / Wayne Family Adventures: stuffed animals, yes or no?

tl;dr it's in WFA! Probably not anywhere else, but it could be.

Post-2011 stuff tends to be cutesier overall, most of all in the current Infinite Frontier era. So I don't feel like this would be tonally out-of-line with IF comics. Taylor tends to go for more meme-y references rather than fanfic references, though.

So the obvious best fit is WFA, which is aiming for a rough approximation of Silver Age family-friendly vibes - wholesome, episodic plots, Teaching Good Moral Lessons For The Youth, etc. - plus lots of Easter eggs for fanfic readers and some comic references.

And look, here we are:

Aww.

Whew - that's everything I could find!

Anyway as you can probably tell, I LOVE the elephant, so this was a very entertaining rabbit hole to go down, thank you <3

[shivsdownstairsneighbour]

Chérie - End of the Line

Pairing: Stewy Hosseini x Fem. Reader

Description: A puzzling email and a new shoot gets you closer to Stewy once more. Maybe it's time to see how far things can go only for a night.

Rating: Teen/Mature

Word Count: 4k. Part one of the fic, though each can also be stand alones.

AN: Dearest reader, this author has to complete her yearly research report so, of course, it was compulsory to succumb to fic brainrot before typing the report. The dress comes from the Schiaparelli 2020 couture runway. While it lacks a specific name, if you search for the runway lookbook, you'll spot it from the embroidery details (all magnificent and superb). I wanted the closest thing to a SATC naked dress moment while keeping the going to a gala vibes.

Your phone ringing and vibrating right beside you at your desk did wonders in waking you up after a long night editing and postproduction of campaign materials for NYC fashion week. The glam is for the runway, the sleepless night is for the creatives behind the whole operation.

"Good morning?" You responded, not entirely sure if it was morning or afternoon.

"Greetings Miss, we're calling from Mr. Hosseini's office to confirm your presence this afternoon for the media materials." The ever so polite voice of Mrs. Margaret’s, Stewy's assistant, was surely a new way of waking up.

"Uh, yes, I've already confirmed a week ago and sent the tech brief of what I need in the room." You answered, standing up to get the coffee machine running before jumping to the shower.

"Of course, and you'll find it all according to your specifications. We're only missing your measurements, for which you haven't responded to the request sent via email three days ago."

"I beg your pardon, my measurements?" You froze in front of the cabinets, afraid to drop the mug out of shock.

"Yes, madame. Please send them via email at your earliest convenience."

"What does that have to do with me popping in for some pics?” Your voice tone conveyed beyond disbelief and your hand held even stronger to the mug.

"It's a personal request, I have no additional information about the matter. Please do send them and hope you have a pleasant day."

You were left beyond baffled. You actually thought it was a joke to have someone ask for your measurements and, since it came from an email address you didn't recognize, you figured it must be a prank. Why on earth would your measurements matter for a two-hour shoot? The request for measurements was baffling, making you feel the urge to text him to figure who came up with such a ridiculous request. However, truth to be told, beyond a text here and there or the occasional coincidences at a public event, Stewy and you wouldn't talk much, if ever. There was very little beyond a quick flirt and a drink. Plus, this was work, and when your professional name was called for, you liked to keep things strictly business.

Before you could do anything to contact him about that matter, the brand representative from last night's runway called to ask for the contact sheets and the final 6 pic run to use for press statements. You mindlessly typed your measurements though made a mental note to demand some answers from Stewy. The three coffees you had downed by them were starting to make their magic on you and, by the time you were done with your things, you looked a little haggard from the late nights, but with a bit of effort, you looked pulled together and ready to tackle the shoot.

Since they promised to stick to your tech brief as requested, you travelled light with only your camera bag and two lenses for what you envisioned a relatively easy shoot. Considering the hotel already had great lighting in the room, it was only a matter of setting the camera adequately to get the best out of the space. In hindsight, that could also use your own pent-up questions to raise some reactions from him that would make for a good picture. Mrs. Margaret was waiting for you at the hotel entrance and guided you immediately to the room. She didn't mention anything beyond the schedule and handed you the comms pack that would come out of them. The idea was to make it a sort of approachable, yet exclusive profile meant to be part of a joint social media-press strategy derived from the increased interest in his profile, both personal and business.

"Well someone looks as if they didn't have their beauty sleep. Or any sleep at all." He says as soon as he spots you walking into the room. He was wearing a bathrobe and sitting on the recliner by the bed.

"It's the post fashion week eye bags. Tres chic." You glared at him, not impressed by the lack of a greeting. What happened to normal courtesy like a good afternoon?

"Your working station must be somewhere over there. Make yourself at home." He pointed towards the mahogany desk that had the equipment placed and the already mounted studio flash beside it.

"Sure, because home is definitely overlooking the park." You responded, clearly caught by the wonderful views the room offered.

"Snarky. That's new." He turned towards the walk-in wardrobe, and you let a long sight before getting to the setup. It wouldn’t be long but the lack of sleep might start creeping in if you let it.

You set up the camera and start plugging in everything to the set up before starting the shoot. You have a shooting remote active for moments where you with the camera would be too intrusive or if you wanted to have a more upfront conversation without the camera meddling between him and you. They've just started with skincare and the press girl is pulling some questions while you shoot, and the social media guy is getting some backstage content. Curiosity is getting the best of you but you don't know when to ask about the whole measurements thing, especially when surrounded by so many people, some being fellow colleagues from adjacent fields, like Sylvie, the stylist.

By the time they're done with skincare and hair, the press people take a break before he's fully dressed, and you're left with the hairdresser, the make-up artist and the stylist. You might be buzzed by the rush of getting someone not only camera ready, as red carpet ready was a must, to feel the wear and tear from the week. However, you're also sleep deprived and terribly irrational, so you just blurt it out when the hairdresser asks you to take a seat at her station while he comes out of the wardrobe having had the final fitting of his trousers hems.

"Why does your team need my measurements?" Not only did everyone turn to him, but you could feel it, more than ever, his eyes burning through you.

"Everyone, out. Take five, get a coffee, smoke, whatever you need." Everyone left the room, no questions asked, leaving you two standing in the middle of it. "You're impossible to surprise, aren't you?"

"No, I like surprises, but asking through your assistant something of the sort isn't pleasant."

"Well, here's the surprise." He took your hand and guided you to the rack, where four black dust bags were hanging, each with a color-coded ribbon.

"The red one's my choice, I've seen you around and think it'll suit you. The blue is PR, would be lovely to see you on that one for the sake of this operation. The green's the stylist choice, and the pink is a wild card from her too. We could've gotten you more choices if you would've been punctual with your measurements." He said, with such naturality, you felt as the last person in the room to be on the deal.

"I think you've skipped over at least 10 steps previous to this conversation."

"You're my date and I can't have you walking around the red carpet or the gala looking like that." He said while pointing out to your smart trousers and shirt outfit. It was meant to be functional, not glam worthy.

"You know it would've been way easier to just ask upfront?"

"But where's the surprise in it?" He responded, with an almost mocking smirk on his face you wished to at least challenge a little.

"Your date? To the couturier's gala?" Both disbelief and a raised brow conveying the ridiculousness of his move.

"I know you're not booked or on assignment tonight."

"Great choice of words. This is making me feel like an expensive stand-in." His naturality on the subject was making you go from anger to uneasiness. A heads-up would’ve been a way better option.

"Booked or not, choose one, let them pamper you and have a night off."

"I still have to deliver these for your team."

"They're not due tomorrow, are they?" That bit was true, having until next Sunday magazines and society sections to publish them. Feeling accomplished, he turned to face you without dropping the hand he held.

You didn't realize, or rather chose to willingly ignore, the fact that he knew you held the remote in your hand. You were probably still within the camera's field of view, and in a swift move he took it from you and snapped a pic from the moment. The studio flash snapped you out of the moment and, just as quickly as everyone had been dismissed, the crew returned to the room. Stewy could've easily saved at least half an hour from prep time if he would've been clear from the start with his intentions. Nevertheless, you trusted everyone knew how to pull off a look while in a time constraint. You also had to admit it felt good to be receiving the VIP level of pampering that you've documented dozens of times but never had the pleasure of enjoying.

While all dresses were beyond beautiful, it was the pink wildcard that worked best, having it be a must wear if ever given the chance. The stylist helped you get into it, and you looked dazzling. It was day and night from how you left home, and you were really feeling it while wearing it. You didn't notice Stewy had been already fully prepared and looking from the sitting area how you were getting styled and fitted. He looked so smug having a glass of whiskey, as if taking you out fully glammed up was his accomplishment. In truth, you were never certain if you would've responded positively to an actual invitation for an event of the sort. Maybe the smug victory said more about you than him. But you wouldn't be opposed to a second outing if the night fared well.

Once you were ready, you asked for a couple of portraits of him sitting on the sofa and looking relaxed. He was pulling off each shot with enough success to not have to be any more demanding than necessary for good material. Maybe he'd gotten better at it due to increased attention. Or, rather more credibly, he was giving you content after asking you out in the weirdest way possible. Once the shots were done, it was time to leave and you started to feel the weight of the evening on your shoulders. It would be impossible to deny that the atmosphere was awkward in the elevator. Maybe you should've been the one to have a sip or two of that whiskey. What would you even talk about?

"If you ever wish to surprise me again, you do know you have my number." You said, almost as a whisper, wishing to fill up the silence between you two.

"Once again, where's the surprise in it? And I've seen how controlling you are. You would've said no to at least two racks of those dresses. And me." You could be wrong, but was he admitting to being scared of your rejection? That would be impossible.

"Now how would you know about that?"

"You moved the flower vase at least seven times since you started setting the camera." The nonchalance of the phrase revealed a little more than what he strictly said. He was apparently catching your every move in the room.

"That's not being controlling."

"Perfectionist then."

"I'm a professional, Mr. Hosseini." He looked at you with the same eyes as he did during the last picture from the first session. You knew he didn’t like that kind of solemnity in casual settings.

"I'm also a professional. And this will be good business for both of us." The elevator’s opening door not only wrapped the conversation, but also made it official that, whatever you had agreed to, was now set in stone.

You started to wonder if being snarky was a result of being sleep deprived, being nervous, or just in the presence of him after pulling the stunt. You have had good conversations in the very few opportunities you'd meet. Never deep, though always entertaining and fun. The car ride didn't ease the pressure, as being now in front of the camera became a reality. You understood perfectly what was going on from a technical perspective, and being in front of other colleagues was a massive change. You were increasingly too aware of your angles, of how to make the dress stand out, and how you'd be expected to stand by Stewy's side. He, on the other hand, was chill and chatting along with someone on the phone, and one of his hands found its way to the leg embroidery, carefully touching each bead. You would be lying if you'd deny it made you feel a mix of comfort and arousal.

The car stopped and you had to get out. You knew that the rule would be for him to help you out, and, as if coordinated from dozens of times of making it together, once your door opened, his hand was offered. The flashing lights dazed you up for a couple of seconds, making you trust his hand in guiding you towards the carpet and the entryway. It was his confident pressure on it that made you go from apprehension to trust and, as time passed, to enjoying the walk.

The first couple of pictures were admittedly awkward, with the two of you only holding hands and standing a little too rigid for anyone's taste and with enough space for the entire Holy Family to fit between both of you. You wanted to show the dress without straying too far from him, being that you had not much of a public profile to use as leverage to stand alone. By the middle of it, you decided to just lean into all the shenanigans of the moment, accepting his hand on the small of your back, crossing yours behind him too and fully leaning towards him on some shots. You'll figure out tomorrow how good they came out looking but, for now, it was about just letting go.

The gala was beautiful, beyond anything you'd experienced. Without the pressure of documenting it on assignment, you could appreciate all that came with it. The food was great, the acts just as beautiful, and you got to interact with people who you see seldom in person, as they're part of the designers’ in-house staff. Stewy never strayed too far from you and turned out to be an engaging presence no matter the group in front of him.

It became a little clearer than before why the unexpected request with cryptic message and request could've worked best with you. You would've easily said no to a situation that put you right on the center of attention. And, when the first meeting took place, it was you who suggested Rhomboid while being in your court and under your direction. So, it must've been adequate to put you in his court for the next move. However, there were many other ways to ask you out without sounding like a creep or an ass.

"I told you you'd like it. And I'm never going to complain of how much eye fucking I've gotten from you in that little number." He said to you as you two walked together to the bar for a refill.

"Even if it was a wild card?" You looked at him bewildered, clearly caught off guard by the last remark.

"Mostly because it was the wild card. It's like getting a preview of you." His free hand made its way to the embroidered ribs, holding you tight by his side.

"You're so flirty and reveling the moment, aren't you?" You blurted you mindlessly, probably as an effect of the couple of drinks you've enjoyed so far.

"And so are you." His hand departed your ribs and made its way to the small of your back before landing on your butt. Before you could rationalize it, he pulled his move. "There's a suite with my name and your camera waiting, and I'd hate to leave all that hanging any longer."

"We're not playing with my camera. That's work equipment."

"That remote button is very tempting, and you should see what I did there." He concluded with a smirk and a soft squeeze coming from the hand on your butt.

"You took some pics of me?" His smirk quickly changed to a laugh, probably due to your own reaction to whatever he had proposed.

"Only fair if you got mine in there."

He looked towards the hall's entrance and you two started to make your way out by finishing your drinks and bidding goodbyes to any acquaintances you encountered on your path. Since there would be no cameras outside as the gala was approaching the end, it felt natural to hold his hand, share some laughter, and head towards the car without feeling observed by any prying eyes. While the proposal was intriguing as is, it was more intriguing why he didn't pull any move during the car ride beyond touching and playing with the embroidered ribs and femurs.

It was in the room that everything started to become clear. Standing near the station, he asked you to turn on the setting you had been working with. You only needed the camera and the computer, so nothing else was turned on from the afternoon shoot. After some scrolling, the screen showed the shots of you getting the dress on and looking at the mirror. You were awed by the naturality with which you seemed to have navigated an unusual circumstance as that.

"I believe the photographer did a great job setting it up. Do you know her by any chance?" Standing side by side, his hand returned to its now usual spot on the back, and it was certainly more appealing to see him without the suit jacket.

"These are quite good."

"You didn't take it personally that I didn't choose yours?"

"I didn't even know this one was a possibility. You looked almost naked, walking around the gala as if you run the place." While your eyes were still focused on the screen, his eyes were looking intently at you, a sight that had been your companion for most of the evening.

"And you got unprecedented eye fucking opportunities." You turned to face him, locking sight and reaching your hand towards the one he wasn’t using to support himself on the table.

"A rightful compliment to my invitation." He stood straight and took the remote from beside the mouse.

"You know that that’s not a toy."

"Before we begin, let me tell you how much I want to ruin this lip color." He said, giving you a kiss while holding you tight to him with one hand and the remote with the other. It wasn’t a deep kiss but you sensed it'll go beyond that if given enough time.

"Would you stand here miss?" He said pretending to not have heard you and guiding you back to where you were getting ready before.

"Now, I want to see the whole of you. Gloves, please?" He whispered on your ear before moving to kiss your neck.

"Not a chance if I don't get to do some perusing before." You manage to say before he stood half a step back to look at you as if you’d defied him.

Without removing the gloves, you took your time untying the bowtie, and opening the first three buttons of the shirt. He held you steadfastly to him and, as he asked you to do more, you never changed the pace with which you were going, carefully unbuttoning each one knowing the tease you were being by going so slowly.

After his shirt was undone, he let go of you and turned you around to plant some kisses along your neck and shoulders before his hand reached your side and undid the zipper. It was slow, calculated, and definitely doing more than a thing or two to your brain. As the dress fell to the floor due to the weight of the embroidery, his free hand explored your back, and you turned around, stepping out of the dress to undo the belt buckle and the trousers. He was still dressed, and it was unfair of him for you to be standing on your underwear while he had trousers and an undershirt on.

The continued teasing touches left you two standing fully naked, craving each other desperately, and leaving the gloves as the final barrier between teasing and fucking. He slowly helped you take one glove off, never letting go from the remote, before helping you to the other. Once both of you were standing fully naked, his hand found his way once more to the small of your back and with strength and self-assuredness, started kissing you with more passion than ever. You were certainly no fool either, letting him go for it and voicing it to his ear how good he was doing as he kissed your breasts and tended to you.

From that point on, the night became a blur. He immediately left the remote after the first kiss and guided you to the bed where things got going. You could feel his fingers and lips exploring you just as you were getting acquainted with his body. You liked the feeling of his hairy chest on you and, as you asked for more, he certainly wasn't going to leave you hanging. Excited beyond measure, you kept it going until you couldn't do any longer without feeling him inside. You took him in and reveled in the sensation of feeling full, using your legs to hold him tightly in you. Neither of you was fully sure of how many orgasms came from the nightly adventure, but as you two lied side by side, you took the pleasure of feeling exhausted for more than one reason aside from sleep deprivation. After a quick shower, the week of poor sleep caught with you, and you dozed off almost immediately after getting into the covers. You could feel Stewy's hand running along your side, similar to how he touched the rib embroidery on the dress. You're not sure if he placed one last peck on your back or not because you were already gone.

The next morning, you woke up early to see, in private, whatever Stewy managed to capture from the night. One picture immediately caught your eye where he was pressing your back against him and laying a kiss on your neck. Both seem to have forgotten the camera was there, looking absolutely locked into the moment. Another picture, him looking mesmerized as you undo his belt, getting extra light touches from the way the glove embroidery reflected light as you moved. Certainly, these pictures and the others you were selecting would enter your private collection. A thing to be only enjoyed by you.

You felt a warm hand on your shoulder, and you turned to see him awake and only wearing his boxers. He crouched to your eye level and pointed to the screen saying, "I'll want these prints first thing" before a quick peck on the cheek.

"Should I trust you to keep them private?"

"No one should ever see you like that, except me." His smugness oozed off from him and the look he gave you emphasized the nature of his request and his word. As he said to some other person at the gala, his word was his bond, and he might see to it with the seriousness with which he pulled business deals.

In the meantime, he got a notepad from the desk drawer and wrote his address.

"I want them delivered here with a special request for you to be the courier."

"Should I wear the gloves too?" You mentioned keeping a playful tone to what seemed to be a confirmation of an upcoming date.

"As much as they're yours now, I want to see them again doing precisely that." He responded by pointing at the picture where you removed his belt.

A knock on the door pulled you two out of it and breakfast was served. Who knew if and when you'd do this gala date all over again. But for now, you had a package to deliver and some joint morning aftercare to ease you back to your routine. 

[smuttyfang]

Garrus Vakarian, Trying To Ask You Out

"Hello! Hope you're doing well! If you're still doing requests, can you make a scenario of Garrus trying to ask the reader out whom they've known since they've been part of the Normandy crew since day one and who also joined him to Omega? And maybe show his realization of him falling for them? Totally fine if not! Thanks though! Stay safe!😁💜"

Words: 624

"Ah, shit.. my back.." You tried to stand up from your bar stool, but somehow ended up feeling a catch in your back, forcing you to stop moving for a moment to get it to relax. You sighed in frustration. Garrus chuckled at you from his seat that was next to yours.

"I tried to get you to stay for a few more drinks. Listen to what your body is telling you. Come on, one or two more." He smugly took another shot, patting the stool you had been sitting on.

"Yeah yeah yeah.." You rubbed your lower back before sitting back down. "I'm just getting too old Garrus."

"Old? Please." He asked for another one of your favorite drinks, and slid it to you. "I'm much older than you are."

"Sure, but humans don't age very gracefully. Or very slowly." You took the drink in your hand, swirling it around in the glass. "Plus, we have been through a lot together. It all takes a toll after a while, you know?" You felt the pain in your back subside for the most part.

"Sure does." He cleared his throat. "But I never could have asked for a better partner through it all." You nodded and held your glass up to his. They clinked together. It didn't take long for the memories to start flooding back. Of the Normandy, of Omega.. It was a lot to process once you actually started to replay it all in your head.

"We have been through a lot together. Some of those things I'll never forget." You said, only half smiling.

"Good or bad?"

"Both." You took another sip.

"Hmm.. I like to remember the good." He clicked his tongue. "Remember the time I shot through three men with one bullet? Damn, good times."

"Yeah, and then you soon after took a rocket to the face. I won't forget that, unfortunately." You smiled.

"Well, I have noticed I've gotten more stares from women since then. It can't be all bad, can it?" He leaned in close to you, and you could hear his voice purring. "You like it too, don't you?" You could tell he was trying to act all cool and be suave in front of you, but you wanted to take him down a peg for once. You leaned close to him, definitely letting your shirt fall a little lower to show more skin.

"Oh, yes Garrus.." You said, in the most seductive voice that you could possibly muster. He was immediately taken aback, pulling away and becoming awkward in an instant.

"I, uh.. haha, okay. You got me that time." Both of you stayed quiet for a little while, just listening to the soft music and quiet muttering of everyone close by. Ocassionally one of you would take a drink, or barely make eye contact. Finally, he decided to speak up. Clearing his throat, he turned back toward you to speak. "Listen.. like you said, we have been through a lot together. I would fight against anyone or anything with confidence if I knew I had you at my side.." He trailed off for a moment before continuing. "I've thought about this since our Normandy days, but I want to just see if it's worth a shot." He took a sip of liquid courage. "Would you like to go out sometime? On a date, I mean. A real one, not just hanging out at the bar. I know a nice sushi place.."

"Of course, Garrus. I thought you would never ask." His eyes lit up and he nodded his head.

"Pick a time and a day, I'll be there to pick you up. And try to sweep you off your feet while I'm at it."

AO3

[frau-wilhelm-klink]

A list of unexpected bingo card events I didn't expect to happen in 2024, but occurred anyway.

(Yes, it's a bit sappy and no, I don't care.)

Befriending two new fellow Menaces™️ who not only put up with my nonsense, but are 99% on my wavelength. (Y'all know who you are.) That 1% is the things we don't necessarily agree upon/share the same interest in...but 99% is still good! Now I have a total of three, and I think that's great🥰

Several highly entertaining Discord video calls that went on for hours! Seriously, only reason we had to end them was because they had to go to bed🤣 I am, however, a certified Yapper™️ just like my bestie, so that's no surprise. It's difficult to shut me up once I really get going.

Having another Discord video call, where one of my talented artist friends sacrificed a bit of his time to play interpreter so our moms could talk. (Which is a good thing, since neither of them speak the other one's language.) Trying to arrange that one with the massive time zone difference between us was interesting, but we pulled it off...and I managed not to mangle his language too badly in the process😅 I count that as a win.

Finding new people (aside from said Menaces) on Discord to share my crackhead energy with! Sometimes, I legit have no idea what the hell is even going on when I pop in there, but I just go with it.

Discovering my new favorite crackship of StettiHo. Don't get me wrong, Klogan is and always will be my OTP for the HH fandom. That's never gonna change; my colonels are too perfect together. But this crackship, man...I can't even explain it. Major Hochstetter - aka Stetti bc he's an angry lil' smol bean - literally just stomped in unannounced and announced he's decided he wants Hogan😂 (Which I can completely understand, 'cause that man is a walking thirst trap.) I was just over here like, "Oh, so you finally decided you want Hogan in more ways than one? Good to know." So that's now a thing, I guess. Pretty sure this fic by a lovely fellow Klogan writer of ✨️Quality Literature✨️ had a lot to do with forming my newest obsession. Of course, @fireinthefireproofvault didn't help either! *affectionately shakes fist*

Beginning the process of planning several IRL visits with all three of my fellow Menaces. Now, will they happen in 2025? Short of receiving an unexpected windfall of money, no. I was the sole carrier of Christmas for my family in 2024, so it's gonna take me at least a year to pay all that off. Plus, my house is still under construction anyways. But I'm keeping my fingers crossed for them to happen in 2026!

Somehow managing to be a hot mess for the entire month of December. Considering I live in a very cold, arctic climate, that should've been physically impossible😅 Pretty sure it was due to the madness and stress of the holidays. It's all good, tho - things are slowly getting back on track.

Coming up with the term 'Idea Maker™️' as a euphemism for dicks. Why? Well, because every time one of the aforementioned Menaces gets some, she comes up with great plots for fics🤣 I don't know if that's just a coincidence or what, but it is what it is.

Corrupting...uh, I mean, inspiring my fellow Menaces (including @whatisthismandoinghere) to begin writing down their own little s/i stories they have. I'm oddly touched about this one, tbh. I've never really thought of myself as an inspiration to anybody, so having that happen really gets me a little choked up. And they've been doing me the honor of sharing said stories with me! That's just...I...🥺 (Look, I know this is a stupid thing to get a little emotional about, but I am. Don't judge me.) I really enjoy reading them, watching their worlds come to life. Can't wait to dive back into a certain one that's apparently at 135 pages now once I get a chance. I'm just over here thinking to myself, "Is that supposed to deter me or hype me up? Because it's doing the second one."😂 I'm an avid reader; telling me something is long ain't the way to scare me off!

Being pleasantly surprised to discover I'm not the only one of my friends who has Horny Brain™️ pop up out of nowhere at the worst possible time. I may be a smut writer for the most part, but it's very frustrating to have that happen when I'm legitimately trying to write a different genre of fic.

Learning some of my friends also have an internal musical jukebox that just randomly kicks on whenever it wants. What's it playing? Hell if I know🤣 That fucker is stuck on shuffle, and I've got no way to change it. From what I understand, they're in the same boat as I am with that.

Finding one new ✨️Quality Literature✨️ Klogan writer who's on same freak-quency as in most aspects (deviants unite🤝🏻) and another one who may or may not be. They haven't written enough smut yet for me to really tell. Now I have three: @did-you-expect-this, @anna-pineappel & @someguywriting.

This fic! It's such a nice blend of goofy, silly, a tiny bit angsty and hot. Also this fic and this one. I absolutely love the dynamic, banter - and of course, smut - in all of these.

The existence of this series and this series, both of which have me going feral in the best way.

Having one of my stories be an inspiration for somebody else's work💜 Let me tell you, the scream I scrumpt when I saw that notification was unlike any sound I've ever made before.

I could go on, but I think that's enough for one post. Ily all so much, fellow Menaces! You bring me lots of joy and laughter. (I hope I do the same for you at times too; otherwise, I've failed😂) Looking forward to 2025, which hopefully will bring even more good things.

[whoslaurapalmer]

post canon extended baudelaire family - how much does baby bea know about her namesake? what stories have she been told about her? from whom does she learned specific details, etc.

(also hope your doctor visit go well!! )

GASP............oh what a question. oh boy oh boy

well. i think babybea knows A Lot about beatrice. she's read asoue, she knows what lemony said about her as Beatrice, as the baudelaire's mother, she knows that she was incredible and a Presence and a real person, and fancy and sophisticated and a mother who could sing and dance and cook and do all kinds of things!! and that. uh. she committed murder. but let's not pretend babybea has an average view of morality here. she has access to a great deal of information that other people haven't, and has been IN vfd, and has also had a great deal of time alone to consider what makes people do things. she knows violet and klaus and sunny contemplated murder, too. so i don't think she's bothered by that.

(would babybea have committed murder? if she had stayed in vfd, yes. i think so. bc if she stayed in vfd -- if lemony hadn't finally decided to meet her -- then babybea would not have broken the cycle. and that's one of the points of babybea's character, that she can do that. but if she hadn't been able to walk out of vfd herself, on purpose, she wouldn't have been able to break the cycle.)

related: i think, despite sharing her name, babybea is 100% successfully her own person -- i think she's had a few moments of like, feeling the weight of the idea of beatrice (when she was in vfd, when she meets lemony for the first time and he has to explain why he didn't meet her sooner, just introducing herself as beatrice baudelaire), but also, that's all she ever really knows, that Idea of beatrice. she never gets to meet beatrice. she's just babybea, trying to exist with her own problems. so i don't think she feels a sense of competition, or like people overwhelmingly compare her to beatrice. (i think i worry about it more than she might!! bc of like, the stress on baticeer in the beatrice letters, which is only to keep the mystery of who it is until the end, and the end of the end. i think she doesn't actually care for bats. they are Average to her. which speaks to more distancing herself from vfd trauma re: dealing with them in my fic, than distancing herself from beatrice.)

i think she loves hearing about her, though!! in the way you love hearing stories about your family, about people in your family, especially learning more about the family members telling you the stories.but when she hears about beatrice is, difficult. when she first meets lemony, i think he's more involved with the sbts crew than the remains of the sugar bowl gen at that point, so she doesn't get brought up a great deal, and lemony's still going through a lot. when they reunite with the baudelaires, it's not that violet and klaus and sunny don't want to talk about their parents, or have an aversion to it, but it's the sense of, sometimes talking about someone you miss is just kind of loaded. in the actual act of saying the words out loud, for yourself to hear, for other people to hear. it might make you upset, it might make other people upset, and you don't know what's going to happen until you say it, because grief is weird like that, even after all that time, sometimes especially when the loss isn't so fresh anymore. so i think the three of them are just. going through complicated emotions.

so i think, not just babybea, but also violet and klaus and sunny, start to not only hear more about beatrice, but talk more about beatrice, when they (plus lemony) meet up with the denouements. there's definitely things about beatrice that frank and ernest and lemony know, that violet and klaus and sunny would not know. (and some unmentionable things. for, private, reasons.......) god i wish i could come up with like. a series of fun memories for them to talk about but regretfully all i have managed to offer is this one minor one, that i still think is cute --

-frank, despite having seen beatrice do this, many times, brings up the near impossibility of whistling with crackers in your mouth. lemony brings up a number of outings where beatrice did just that, and whistled more than just mozart. sunny makes a series of crackers and all of them try whistling while eating the crackers. klaus is moderately successful, beatrice almost spits out her crackers on accident bc, horror of horrors, her mother could not whistle.

violet: mother made it look very easy. lemony: your mother made a great many things look very easy. 

but i also want to bring up!! i feel like babybea knows so much about beatrice -- and rightfully so -- but, in comparison, she honestly knows so little about her own mother, about her own parents. violet, klaus, and sunny knew kit and dewey for a very brief period of time, so her information about them is very limited. so i think a lot of beatrice stories are also stories that involve kit. babybea is very starry-eyed during these. she sees a lot of boundless determination in stories about kit that she also sees in herself.

[lividria]

Funny Story: The Thousand-Year Door (Part 2)

Yea, remember the time I made a post about how everyone associates me with this game's Vivian because that's also my name, I'm also trans and my OC persona character looks similar? I have now beaten TTYD and I already wasn't opposed because I liked the character but I used Vivian for literally as much time as possible once I got her so uh

Here's some of the highlights of my playthrough, spoilers obviously

In the chapter 8 Shadow Sirens rematch (I know they're the Three Shadows now but I'm used to the old name, fight me), I had Goombella out to get tattles, tried to switch over to Vivian, and the FUCKING GAME CRASHED? Which I interpreted as Beldam getting so pissed it broke the space-time continuum, thankfully I saved right before and Vivian later dealt the final blow to Beldam to win the fight when I tried again

Shadow Queen kicked my FUCKING ASS HOLY SHIT, it took me 3 tries, I feel like if I were to rematch Prince Mush they would be so much easier than SQ it wouldn't even be funny AND THEY'RE A SUPERBOSS, I WIPED THE FLOOR WITH JUST ABOUT EVERY PRE-CHAPTER 8 BOSS BUT THEN THE FINAL BOSS WRECKED MY ASS LIKE SHE WAS TACO BELL

One of my friends hyped up Bonetail as being even harder when I immediately went to do the Pit after the credits, I JUST beat them without using any items (Though I did eat a couple in the earlier levels of the Pit) and it was so much less intense than what I expected, especially because I got really lucky with bingos and Pretty Lucky (badge) so I was never in any danger

Yes I know about Whacka, yes I know what I have to do to fight them, yes I'm gonna try them, but that's for tomorrow

I was actually trying to get 100% tattles this playthrough but only realized far too late I didn't get the tattles for the scripted Shwwonk Fortress encounters (Not the Golden Fuzzy, though, I got them & their Fuzzy horde) and I don't know if those guys respawn or are anywhere else so uh fucking whoops

I laughed my ass off when the Atomic Boo had it's own battle theme, that was the most unnecessary thing ever

Chapter 3 made me absolutely lose my shit because all I did was do all the Trouble Center side quests before that and I was somehow hilariously overpowered (I actually got a Power Plus from was their name Dazzle or Sparkle? So that's probably why) I destroyed everything and everyone, I knew about the poisoned cake but I didn't know leaving it killed that poor Koopa, I was completely floored by Bowser not having his boss theme (It's used in the Chapter 8 fight don't worry), and laughed for like a half hour straight at Grubba actually just dying at the end of the chapter after confessing to murder, can you actually find him anywhere after that because I never saw him ever again and Jolene said he was out of the picture so I choose to interpret that as Mario just straight up killing the guy

I fucking hate Rawk Hawk, I rematched him a couple times, all of them unintentionally besides for one time I was like 2 points off a level up, he goes down so fast it's so cathartic, I got an e-mail at some point from him that looked like he was saying he's a better fighter now, I'm gonna go beat his ass right now to prove he ain't

I somehow got Vivian into that bucket in the hidden part of Rogueport Harbor, she teleported out before I could screenshot it, I open Tumblr and first thing I see is that one post that's art of bucket Vivian, reality is taunting me I swear

For the several years on Discord I've always made it a thing to exaggerate some personality traits whenever it'd lead to funny jokes, so I have this entire gag persona I'll put on sometimes where I'll act like a narcissistic asshole out of nowhere (which is pretty easy because I'm incredibly easy to anger and thus act like a jerk more than I should), and it's some of the same people I do that with that compare me to TTYD Vivian sometimes, so imagine my reaction when I see the dialogue implying Vivian has a crush on Mario when I always switch out the player character with myself in my head, Vivian has a crush on essentially herself

I never used Zess T. once throughout my entire playthrough so imagine my horror when I check the requirements for 100%ing the game and seeing the recipes are there in the Journal menu, yea fuck no lol, I don't even know if I'll get all the Star Pieces & Shine Sprites but I am definitely not catching up

So uh yeah really good game

[bubblegump-1-nk]

As She Walks By pt. 2

summary: Theodore and you are just best friends (or not), but when he finally hooks up with the Hufflepuff girl who’s had a crush on him for years, things may start to change

- based off of the song Heather by Conan Gray (a little bit), set in three perspectives: yours, Theos, and the Hufflepuff girl (an OC I called Althenea Circ). I made you a Gryffindor but if you want to change your house just imagine whatever house I want. You’re also kind of a home-wrecker (respect people’s relationships please lol) in this so..

- warnings: insecurity, angst, not really cheating but idk, typos probably, cussing, toxic relationships, time skips (?) - (these warnings apply to the upcoming parts as well, so you might not see some of them in some of the parts, if that makes sense) I think that’s all but tell me if you find anything else pls!

-your POV-

My mouth dried up, and suddenly I felt like I was trapped in a little box.

“Y/n?” Cho asked. She had just told you about the interaction she had overheard. Althenea Circ had asked Theo to Hogsmeade and he said yes. What was wrong with me? Why do I care? Why should I care? I snogged Dean Thomas yesterday, god why am I such a hypocrite.

“Y/n? Are you ok?” Cho asked again, interrupting my thoughts.

“Er, uh, yeah, sorry Cho.”

“It’s ok. I just thought I should tell you because, you know, Theo’s your friend.” She said, emphasizing the word ‘friend’ in a weird way. Somehow insinuating we weren’t just friends.

“Yeah, thank you. I’m going to go finish my potions essay now, but, er, I’ll see you later.” I said, quickly getting up from the library table.

“Oh, um, ok? Why not just stay in the library.” She said, giggling at my silly antics.

“Oh, I just have to grab some supplies is all.” I said, stacking my papers crudely just so I could get out quickly.

We said our goodbyes and I was quickly walking down the corridor, hoping to find an empty bathroom. I turned the corridor quickly and entered the girls lavatory and quickly locked myself in the stall.

What was wrong with me? Why did I care? Shouldn’t I be happy for Theo, and Althenea who’s practically been in love with him since forever. Why was I suddenly so possessive. None of his other flings have made me feel this way. I was being unfair. I snog whoever I want, he can do the same, right?

-Althenea’s POV-

I was getting ready in my dorm, my best friend Wesley was helping me get ready for my date with Theodore Nott. THE Theodore Nott. I seriously could not believe it.

“And his arms were around my waist, and god- he is such a good kisser.” I gushed to my friend, who was curling my hair.

“I know. I seriously could not believe it when he came up to you. I mean I’d always thought him and y/n were going to end up together.”

A sour taste entered my mouth and I fell silent - y/n. Oh Merlin how I hated her.

“Yeah,” I said with a fake laugh. “She’s nice.” I said, because she really was. One time in fourth year she helped me with my Charms Essay. But oh god how I hated her.

“Her and Theo are always together. Honestly you’d think they were soulmates!” Said Wesley.

“Ok, I get it. You think they belong together. Whatever.” I said, frustrated with my friend.

“Oh Merlin- I’m sorry A, I didn’t even realize what I was saying.” She said, suddenly realizing what she was really saying and who she was really saying it to.

“Don’t worry, I get it. I mean she is perfect” I said quietly, looking down.

“Oh come on Althenea. You know I didn’t mean it like that. Plus, you’re the one going out with him.” She said, squeezing my shoulder lightly.

“Exactly!” I said, happily.

-Theo’s POV-

I was sitting in my comfy bed, reading my good book, in my comfy sweater when Blaise interrupted me.

“Oi mate you’re still here? I thought you were supposed to go out with that, uh, Athena girl?” He said, forgetting her name.

“Holy shit!” I yelled, practically jumping out from under the covers.

“I totally forgot about that.” I said, rushing to the mirror to check how I looked.

I was wearing my quidditch sweater and some black sweatpants - that should be good for the date right? Well whatever, it’s not like I cared anyway.

“Thanks for reminding me, I guess.” I said, adding the last part as I ran out the door.

I rushed to the Hufflepuff common room, that’s what house she was in right? As I was running I bumped harshly into someone, causing them to fall backwards. I looked down and saw her, Althenea. Looking rather… mediocre.

“Oh god, I’m so sorry.” I said, helping her up.

“Oh don’t worry about it really. It’s sort of funny!” She said.

“Er, yeah, I guess so.” I said, scratching the back of my neck.

“Well, are you ready? I was thinking the Three Broomsticks, of course, but if you don’t like that than we could of course-“

I cut off her rambling, her stupid rambling, by saying “Three Broomsticks is fine.”

-At the pub-

“…and then I said that we should have trolls in the bathroom!” Althenea said, telling me a story I was trying so hard to be focused on.

I let out a dry chuckle before saying, “Do you want anything else?” Nodding my head down to her empty plate of food.

“Oh, no thank you! It was really nice of you to pay, you know.” She said, beaming.

“Er, yeah, it was no problem.”

We were silent for a minute or two before I said, “well, it’s getting sort of late and I have to finish up some homework.”

“Oh, yeah of course! Me too. I cant keep putting off those essays!” She said, giggling. She didn’t even think it was weird that I had said it ‘was late’ at 3 in the afternoon.

We finished up at the table and started to walk back, Althenea walking a little too close to me.

“So… what homework do you have to work on?” She asked, trying to fill the void of silence.

“Er, potions and transfigurations.” I said, saying the first two subjects I could think of.

“Me too! Maybe we could work on them together?” She asked, overly exited.

“Oh, well, um, I usually do my homework alone, sorry.” I responded, looking down at her.

“Oh, yeah, how stupid of me!” She said, lightly slapping her forehead.

Before I knew it we were back at the castle and we parted ways, not before she kissed me on the cheek. She skipped away after her lips left my side, and I just stood there dumbstruck. You know, maybe this wouldn’t be so bad. I could finally get my mind off of you, someone I could never have, and Althenea wasn’t all that bad really.

-your POV-

“I’m done with him. Really.” I told Hermione, adding the last part after she gave me a strange look.

“We’re just friends. This jealousy is just forming out of something possessive, nothing else. It’s not fair of me to do that to him. Plus, she seems like a nice girl.” I continued, ranting to Hermione.

“I’m glad. The quicker you get over this the easier your life will get.” She responded.

“Exactly! I don’t want anything weird going on in our friendship and this new relationship will not be the end of Theo and I’s lifelong friendship.” I said.

-At Dinner-

“I still can’t believe it. Theodore Nott with that Hufflepuff, it just doesn’t fit.” Said Ron, loading his already overflowing plate with more food.

Theodore Nott and Althenea Circ’s date had been the talk of the night, already having been spread around all of Hogwarts.

“Did he say anything to you y/n?” Harry asked, pouring me more pumpkin juice after he noticed that I had finished my cup.

“Thank you, and, er, no. We didn’t really talk about it. You know, now that I think of it, we haven’t talked since the party.” I said, remembering my last conversation with Teddy.

“Interesting.” Said Ron, taking a bite out of his Shepard’s pie.

“It really isn’t. Nothings going on, we’ve just been busy.” I responded, aggravated by his comment.

“I’m sure you’re right, y/n. There’s nothing wrong.” Hermione said, reassuring me.

“Thanks ‘minoe.” I said, sending her a smile.

“Why don’t you go talk to him bow. Go over there and tell them all about what we heard Snape talking about.” Said Harry, trying to help me out.

“Good idea! I’ll go do it now, just to make sure there’s no tension or anything.” I said, getting up from the Gryffindor table to go tell the Slytherins about Snape saying he had always thought Sirius Black was cute.

As I began walking over to the Slytherin table, I noticed a pair of eyes on me. I turned and saw Althenea glaring at me from her table. Suddenly, she got up, and walked very quickly over to the Slytherin’s table, and sat down right next to Theo.

I stood their shocked, surely she didn’t think of me as competition right? The Slytherin friend group looked uncomfortable, but no one looked more uncomfortable than Theo. He looked around, wondering what made Circ think she could come sit with them. I saw his eyes go to the Gryffindor table, to look for me. When he didn’t find them, he looked away, but he quickly locked eyes with mine after another quick scan of the room. He sent me a smile, and a small ‘help’.

I smiled back, and began walking towards their table after my delay. I wasn’t going to let some insecure bitch ruin my friendships.

“Y/n! Thank god.” Said Mattheo, eyes darting to the Hufflepuff quickly.

“Hey guys. You won’t believe what I heard.” I said.

Theo subtly pushed Althenea away, making room for me next to him. But I wasn’t going to be that girl. So, instead I sat next to Draco. Theo looked at me confused, and I whispered just loud enough for him to hear “the Hufflepuff.” He nodded his understanding but looked sad anyway.

“Ok well tell us!” Said Pansy, reaching over the table to play with my rings.

“Well, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and I were walking down the corridor when we heard Snape talking to Mcgonagall. So, obviously we eavesdropped on their conversation and Snape said ‘you know, Sirius Black was always cute. I think that’s why I hated him.’”

The group burst out laughing, all except for Althenea.

“Sirius Black? Like the murderer?” She asked, confused as to why we were all amused.

The group all knew Sirius was innocent, but I couldn’t spill information like that to Althenea, not without Harry’s permission.

“Er, yeah. But they went to school together before he was a murderer.” I explained, causing her to lightly smile to try to fit into the group.

“Ok well, I’ll be going now.” I said getting up, sending Pansy a face that she laughed at before I got up.

“Wait,” Theo said, grabbing my forearm. “Meet me in the astronomy tower later?” He asked, eyes filled with want.

“9:00, don’t be late, Nott.” I said, which he smiled at, before I walked away.

-Theo’s POV-

I stood on the tower at 8:57 PM. I leaned down on the railing, staring out onto the beautiful night sky. The wind ruffled my hair, and I noticed a strong scent of firewood. Suddenly I heard your footsteps, and your sweet perfume filled my nose.

“Hello stranger.” You said, walking up behind me.

I turned around and took a good look at your face. The moon light made you look even more ethereal than I had ever seen you, and I had no idea that was even possible.

“Stop looking at me like that.” You said, turning away from me as you leaned your arms against the railing and looked out at the view.

“Like what?” I asked.

“You know how, Teddy.”

The nickname made my heart swell up, and I didn’t have it in me to fake hating it. I was locked in your trance before you spoke again.

“Plus, I don’t think your girlfriend would be too happy about it.”

“She’s not my girlfriend!” I said, it came out angrier than I expected.

You let out a small laugh before saying, “I like her. She’s good to you.”

She’s not as good as you, is what I wanted to say, but I couldn’t.

“Yeah, I guess she is.” Is what I ended up saying instead.

We were both now leaning on the railing, looking out at Hogwarts’ vast territory, our shoulders leaning against each other.

“She’s really pretty too, and she’s sweet.” You said, your sweet voice ringing in my ears.

“Sounds like someone’s jealous.” I said, chuckling.

“What?” You said, turning to be swiftly, your eyes wide.

“Oh, uh, I only meant that you seem jealous that I’m with her. Because you talk so nicely of her. Like you want her to yourself.” I said, struggling to find an explanation.

“Oh,” you said, you’re demeanor becoming calm again. “You got me there Nott. I’m head over heels for your girl.” You said, giggling, which only made me laugh.

We stood there, laughing like some idiots as we stared out at the beautiful world.

The laughing stopped and you spoke again, “look what I brought.” You said, pulling something out of your pocket.

“Cauldron Cakes! You’re the best, you know that?” I said, grabbing the one you handed me.

We sat down with our backs leaning against the wall, eating our cauldron cakes and talking about everything and nothing. That’s the thing about you, no matter if we were talking about the recent quidditch match or ancient runes for fucks sake, it was never boring, not with you.

The wind was blowing, and I felt you shiver from under my arm.

“Here, have my sweater.” I said, lifting my arm up off your shoulder to take my quidditch sweater off.

“Oh thank you, Theo.” You said, grabbing my sweater and putting it on.

You looked so cute engulfed in my large sweater, with my last name sprawled on the back of it.

“I’ll give it back to you someday.” You said, and I hoped you never gave it back so that everyone would know you were mine. Except your not.

-Altheneas POV (a week later)-

Theo and I have been… dating(?) for a week now. I didn’t know what to call it. He hadn’t asked me out yet, but we’ve been going out on dates, and I’ve spent two nights under him already. He was starting to let me hold his hand more, but he kept saying public affection wasn’t really his thing. Except that, it always had been. Theodore Nott was known for being a softie when it came to his girlfriends, especially when it came to his girl-friend y/n. But people change, right?

Wesley has been reassuring me, but my other friend Quincy keeps telling me to get away from him. I don’t care though, Theo is mine now. For the most part.

“Hey, can you pass me your notes?” Whispered Quincy, taking me out of my thoughts.

“Oh, yeah, sure.” I said, sliding them over, trying to focus on the lesson.

“You’re the best.” She whispered back, sending me a smile.

…

Class ended after what felt like hours and it was finally time for lunch. Quincy and I met up with Wesley before we began walking to the Dining Hall.

“Yeah, and I heard that Avanore and Seamus hooked up.” Said Wesley.

“Avanore Dorian? Isn’t she dating Hermes?” I asked, shocked at the news.

“You bet she is. And if it’s true Seamus is in for one hell of a beating.” She responded.

Suddenly, Quincy stopped, holding both of their arms out to stop Wes and I.

“What?” I said, exasperated.

“Um..” She said.

Wesley and I looked around, trying to find the reason for Quincy’s abruptness. Wesley found it first.

“Oh my.. Are you still with Theo, A?” She asked, mouth agape.

I suddenly became very nervous, “yeah.” I said, worried.

“Look. At. That.” Wesley said, pointing to someone.

I followed her finger and when I found the object of her pointing my mouth fell open.

It was you, y/n l/n, wearing my boy’s quidditch sweater. His name sprawled out boldly on the back. How could you be walking to lunch, chatting and laughing with your friend so calmly knowing that you’re wearing another girl’s boyfriend’s sweater.

“Move please.” Said a voice, belonging to Pansy Parkinson, as she pushed past my stopped figure.

“Y/n, Hermione, wait up!” She said, causing you two to stop and wait for her.

“I like the sweater.” She said, sending you a wink.

“I know right!” Responded Hermione, giving you a playful nudge on the shoulder.

“Guys, it’s just friendly! Plus he’s with that other girl.” You said.

I couldn’t believe it. ‘That other girl’?? Seriously?? You couldn’t even say my name. I seriously couldn’t believe it. My eyes began to well up with tears.

“I’m not so hungry anymore.” Said Quincy.

“Me neither.” Said Wesley.

-your POV (later that night)-

I walked into the library, looking for Althenea.

I felt bad for what happened today, I didn’t realize it would be such a big deal. I mean, everyone knew Theo and I were best friends, and it wasn’t uncommon for me to wear his clothes. But after Hannah Abbot told me that I had made you sob, I felt terrible. And I was on a mission to find you.

I spotted you sitting in the back, with your friends Quincy and Wesley.

I walked over to your table, and cleared my throat. The girls looked up at me: Quincy was sending me a death stare, Wesley had a pathetic attempt at a glare, and you couldn’t even look me in the eye.

“Is this seat open?” I asked, pointing to the empty seat at the table.

Quincy began to say no, covering the seat with her hand but you spoke up, “yeah. It is.”

The two other girls were shocked, sending her looks of ‘are you sure??’ Which she nodded to.

“Thanks.” I said, sitting down.

We sat in silence for a few beats before I finally said, “look I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for you to feel insecure or anything. I’m not trying to take Teddy from you, definitely not. He’s all yours. We’re just best friends, and we have been since forever, but it’s not like that. I was only wearing his sweater because he gave it to me at the astronomy tower a week ago and it was the first thing I grabbed since I was late for class today. And trust me, you have nothing to worry about. You’re beautiful, and smart, everything Theo likes. So, really, I am sorry. But believe me when I say it was a misunderstanding. So… here.” I said, taking the sweater off and handing it to you. The three girls looked at me surprised, but I quickly got up before they could say anything.

“Thank you!” You called out as I was leaving the library, and I sent you a thumbs up as I walked out the door.

I hate being this part but it’s getting soo long so part 3 (hopefully I can write it quickly :))

[tj-dragonblade]

Fanfic Tag Game

Tagged by @softest-punk and @landwriter, thank you both!

1. How many fics do you have on AO3? 133

2. What’s your total AO3 word count? I will break 400K with the next thing I post (unless it is somehow less than 401 words lol) Also, this would require actually focusing on something to finish it

3. What fandoms do you write for? Currently? Sandman (technically, Dreamling). Previously? MCU, Naruto, Saiyuki, and Gundam Wing

4. What are your top five fics by kudos? Overall (these are from my Naruto days and more than ten years old): Delayed (or, Why Kakashi Is Never On Time) (GaiKaka) at 3963 Past the Limits (KakaNaru) at 1272 Affirmation (KakaNaru) at 1022 Worth It (KakaIru) at 1005 Vigil (GaaNaru) at 843 (It kills me that I am Just Not That Into Kakashi and yet he's fucked his way into four of my top five, lol)Current fandom tops, just for fun (all of which are at most a year-plus-change in age) Use Your Words at 443 Insatiable at 398 Fluffbruary Fills (2023) at 375 In the Morning Light at 318 Built For You at 308

5. Do you respond to comments? Yes, generally! I am still catching up on Fluffbruary comments, much to my chagrin

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending? Going aaaallllll the way back to Gundam Wing, I did a songfic where I implied a breakup until the final-line reveal that the character had gasp actually died. There may be a couple other angst-based pieces in my catalog, but that I think is the Most(tm).

7. What is the fic you wrote with the happiest ending? Most everything I write is a happy ending, when there's any semblance of plot involved. Uh. The Umbrella Boys AU had a wedding; maybe that counts? Either that or the Thessaly breakup fic with all the hurt-comfort pining that finally resolves into requited realization.

8. Do you get hate on fics? Never have, would like to keep it that way.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind? The good kind *eyebrow waggle*

10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written? I have…three, that could be counted as crossovers, and one that's a proper fusion. None of them are particularly crazy. Duo and Wufei did Naruto roleplay in the bedroom. Kakashi and Naruto took on Princess Bride's fire swamp. Gojyo and Hakkai acquired Jiipu from Count D and his pet shop with a complete disregard for the fourth wall. Maybe that one, then, though it's more crack than crazy-crossover. Hob wearing the Wavemother's Robe is not enough of anything to count as a crossover.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen? Not that I'm aware of, no

12. Have you ever had a fic translated? Yes! I don't recall which ones but I've had requests to translate to Chinese, to Russian, and I think Spanish as well? Possibly French also. My memory is shit. Je suis désolé.

13. Have you ever co-written a fic? Yeah, a friend and I co-wrote a couple back in GW and it was…fun? At the time? It started as me helping her with the smut portion of a thing she was doing and turned into a cowrite with a sequel. Not the sort of thing I'd have written on my own, and definitely not now twenty years later with my current kink preferences

14. What’s your all time favourite ship? …yeah, that's not a thing I can answer. Whichever I'm fixated on is inevitably my favorite at the time but once the fixation fades, I still have so much love for each of them.

15. What’s a fic you’d like to finish but don’t think you ever will? Oh my god there are so many. But there are two-three unfinished drafts for ThorBruce fic that I really—see, my MCU fandom experience soured so fast I did not have my usual three-year run of productive ficwriting and the ideas I was working on probably could have been finished were that not the case. I would still love to finish them but the motivation (let alone the time) is just not there.

16. What are your writing strengths? I take great pride in my smut, and I like to think I'm good at it. Painting pictures with my words? Maybe character voice, in certain cases.

17. What are your writing weaknesses? Plot. Stories with plot and progression and chapters and such. Follow-through to finish pieces that don't get done in the initial burst of focus.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in a fic? If I had a need for it at some point, I would want to consult a native speaker to ensure correct translation and I would include the translation in footnotes etc. But it would have to be some really specific reason that the foreign language was needed/integral to some story device to not just indicate via some other means (e.g., '"xyz," he said, in perfect French', use of italics, etc) that a different language is in use.

19. First fandom you wrote for? Gundam Wing. If we don't count the 'DS9 novel idea' that I recall making notes on in my journal back in high school, or any of the Mary Sue DS9 thoughts I would also journal about. None of that was ever 'actual writing' nor did I have anywhere I would have shared it in '96.

20. Favourite fic you’ve written? Again. How'm I supposed to pick? Ugh. Let's see, fandom by fandom. Gundam Wing…no, nothing there is a favorite. Saiyuki…When the Chips Are Down. Comedy gen-fic based on a tidbit of fandom lore is not something I manage terribly often but I am quite pleased with this one; Jiipu's pov always delights me and I'm proud of all the voice work here also. Naruto…maybe Seized? Sai POV is one of my strengths and I think it came through really well in that one. MCU…Carpe Diem, I'm very pleased with character voices in that one. Sandman…I remain very fond of the Drunken Confessions Fluffbruary 2023 fic and the Car and Cutoffs one might be my favorite smutfic. So far.

If you'd like to do this, please take my passive tag this has been sitting in my drafts for weeks.

[teddy-tastic-the-toon]

Disadventure Camp Rant 🚧(spoilers for EP 8 below)🚧

Ok, SO- I had already expected Ellie to get the boot this episode, pretty much since the last episode. And, honestly? I'm glad she’s gone- but not because I dislike her!

First off, HUGE Ellie defender and lover of her character here- she's actually part of my top three and man do I love her design and motivation! She’s so real and desperate in a way I think many people can relate to nowadays. She’s obviously portrayed to be kind and caring person to all those who’ve met her outside of the game, even mentioned by Kai in one of his greetings! It’s also obvious how much she adores Gabby and I thoroughly believe that she would ultimately choose her if it came down to it.

Still- I can’t deny that her cut-throat competitive nature would have gotten the better of her at some point. She was becoming really harsh and Tess has a really good point, one I 100% agree with. The game was NOT good for her, and she honestly would have permanently burned so many more bridges if she’d have continued. Plus, it would be silly for her to win as she’s displayed her competative nature again and again, so it was she’d likely have been soon to go anyways. If she, by the slimmest chance, made it to the merge? She’d have been either an early vote if most of yellow didn’t make it, or an easy Villain boot if they did make it. The only one of the four remaining that would possibly want to keep her in would be Alec, but after last season’s finale? It’s be a long shot. The point is that there’s literally no way she would have won, so better now than later.

To get back on topic though- the biggest reason I’m glad she’s gone though? (hoping for) More Gabby character development/screen time! She was a pretty early boot during the first season and her character has been mostly revolving around Ellie thus far in All Stars. I'd simply love to see some more of her interacting with the other contestants and even just her on her own! She’s obviously got something up her sleeve, and highly potential allies to back her up! Villain Gabby arc? Uh- YES PLEASE-

All in all, a bittersweet ending for my girl Ellie- really hoping Gabby gets far! (Gabby for the win lol) Going to cross my fingers for a Gabby vs Grett ending, though that's 100% wishful thinking. Also though- SO psyched about the confirmation that they use pet names! I wasn't sure how cringy-cutesy I could get away with being when writing them but I'm glad it's cannon lol. They're so adorable- can't wait to see Ellie again in the finale! (kinda sad we didn't get her reading off the patrons, though hoping that it means there's a chance she’ll be back?? MAYBE???)

[kme-sims]

Moving In! + Barn tour || Kiwi's Vlogs - 21/1/2024

🔴 📹 …. Recording …

Hey guys! Welcome to today's vlog, I'm Marquis, better known as Ki or Kiwi and this ones an exciting one. I mentioned there was some big changes coming this year and I've been keeping *hush hush* about it but I can finally reveal the big news: I've bought my own stables! and I'm moving the horses in today!

For the longest time I've kept my horses and English Yew and for the last couple of years have been renting out a little three-stall stable block and field to keep my two and whatever project I had on hand at the time, and I had been intentionally holding off on getting another project horse *because* of this behind-this-scenes project. Now this move doesn't mean I'm abandoning English Yew, I still work there and will be continuing business as usual, the new place is like ten minutes from there so don't worry- that's not changing. But, I've been wanting somewhere a bit quieter as English Yew continues to grow and get busier, and I've managed to get my hands on just that.

Wait till the end to see the tour, mind you it's not anything super fancy, it's rather quaint- but I want to let the ponies settle in and squared away before I show you around. Alright, enough chit chat lets get on with it!

Felix was very generous to come out today and help me move the two goobers. They loaded up fine and like I mentioned earlier- it was like a ten minute drive so it wasn't a huge trip at all, just loaded them up, drove down the street, fenagled my truck and trailer into the very tiny drive way, and got thing one and thing two off.

Rob was first off because he can get a little *explosive* if left standing in the trailer for too long and he was VERY looky, as expected. But overall, for Robin standards, he did a great job. He just had quite the speedwalk going for him, but I expect nothing less from him.

Dandy was next and I could tell she was a little on-edge, but she unloaded like the unbothered queen she is and Felix and her followed Robin and I straight into the field without any complaints.

We decided it would be easiest to let the two run loose in the biggest of the three fields so they can stretch their legs out and get all the excitement out with plenty of room before showing them around the rest of the property. Yes I turned them out in their halters, but it was in case the excitement was a little too much and they didn't want to be caught and they were only going to be in there for a bit before I moved them to their actual field. That and I can pretty much see them from anywhere on the property which is a huge plus.

Once they were out in the paddock and we were out of their way, Dandy went right to trotting around and exploring the new scenery and Robin… uh Robin didn't really know how to handle himself. He kinda just froze for a little and stopped functioning.

Felix: "Robin.exe has stopped responding…"

Ki: "That's for sure."

"Eventually the gears started turning in his head again and he exploded back into consciousness and immediately went to galloping around the field to express his strong emotions on the situation. Naturally Dandy joined in and they had lots of zoomies to get out.

Fast forward to the next morning: I decided to leave Rob and Dandy out last night, I'm a strong advocate for the longer turnout time the merrier so they were given lots of time to explore their new surroundings. So they're out and I'm about to head down to give them their breakfast and looking out my bedroom windows - ugh I'm so excited about that - they're both in one piece and look pretty relaxed out there! I'm gonna put the camera down and take care of the ponies, so you guys are gonna right to the tour!

QUE THE MONTAGE

Overview

Okay! Here it is, the new home. Right now you're looking at some drone shots of the entire property, like I mentioned- it's not huge, but it is plenty of space for me and my horses. The property has two fully fenced paddocks that I've separated into three with some line and conveniently has three run in sheds so no matter where the horses are turned out they've got shelter. You can see the nice big arena that’ll you see closer up soon, the very tiny driveway I mentioned earlier, and if you’re curious the house is three-bedroom, three-bath, but I won’t be doing a house tour just yet. But overall, beautiful little farm property, super excited to call it mine.

Moving on to the stables!

Stables + Tackroom

The stables has four functional stalls, a wash bay, and an extra stall that has been converted into a feed/tack room that you can see I've already got myself situated in. The tack/feed room has a door which leads right into my kitchen which is convenient but there's also a hose right outside which is also very convenient. The stalls themselves all have autowaterers, two water buckets each, a nice little feed bin and I've fit them with new hooks for hay nets. I don't stall my horses a whole bunch, but when I do bring them in and I want them to be as comfortable as possible. Overall, I'm really liking the set up I've got going on with the stable block, everything is close together and cozy and very convenient in my opinion. I'm really looking forward to getting to work my horses here.

Right, last but not least, the arena!

Riding Arena

I'm really excited about this part. When I was starting my hunt about six months ago I was really unsure whether or not I'd find somewhere with a decent ring that was in my price range. It was not looking good at first, but this place came up on the market around... late November? if I remember correctly, when I had just about given up on getting the arena I wanted, and it was like the perfect property was conveniently placed right in my lap. I cannot for the life of me remember the dimensions of this ring but it is plenty big for what I was looking for. It's got rubber mulch for the footing and it actually has a little concrete boarder to keep everything in which is unique! but, I think that should work just fine. You'll notice it's connected to the garage as well, which is convenient for jump storage. Even though I now have to share jump storage with my miata- I'll live I guess. But very very excited, cannot wait to ride in this ring!

Right, that will about wrap up today's vlog! I hope you all enjoyed, I'm really excited for this new chapter and I hope you all are too. I've got to get back to unpacking things in the house, I will see you all next week, thanks for watching! Cheers!

[vael-fire]

Who is Rook? Pt 4 - Kalle Aldwir

Using this questionnaire I made, feel free to grab it yourself. SO MANY SPOILERS BELOW and in that link.

Part 1 (Before The Veilguard)

Part 2 (During The Veilguard // Act 1: Signs and Portents)

Part 3 (During the Veilguard // Act 2: The Price of the Past)

During The Veilguard cont.

Act 3: The Wrath of Ages

Did I mention he's done? Someone hold him, plz.

Were all Rook’s allied factions at maximum strength when they launched their attack on Elgar’nan? Which ones weren’t, and why? Did Rook favor any of them? Their own? Someone else’s?

All except the Shadow Dragons, who were at medium strength… because Minrathous was tanked. Kalle tried to treat them all fairly, though the Veil Jumpers are obviously his home, and parsed out resources and time as best he could between them. 

Each of them ended up meaning something to him in the end, partly because he worked with them all so much and partly because they meant so much to the people he loved.

And, uh, the Crow’s First Talon had his heart, by the end. So there’s that.

Who did Rook choose to support the Veil Jumpers in the final battle dealing with magical wards or protecting others?

Neve had the natural facility and flair with wards, and her ice magic was clutch in protecting bystanders--and yes, Rook too, many times. He sent her to help his Veil Jumpers.

Who did Rook choose to support the Crows and the Lords of Fortune in the final battle fighting mages or attacking by surprise?

Lucanis. It hurt not to have eyes on him on Tearstone, but it was what it was, and Lucanis was the one for the job. Plus, you know, let the First Talon handle the Crows, right?

Who did Rook choose to support the Wardens and the Mourn Watch in the final battle fighting massive enemies and constructs?

Emmrich. Not only were they his people, but after Hezenkoss’s massive construct, Kalle felt sure Emmrich could handle what they threw at him.

Who did Rook choose to take with them for the final battle against Elgar’nan and why?

Somewhere along the line, Taash and Harding became Kalle’s go-to for fighting dragons. The three of them worked so well together there, and then against Ghilin’nain, he kept it going.

Did Rook plan to trick Solas with the fake dagger or did they think they better not risk it?

He absolutely planned to try and trick Solas--assuming they couldn’t talk him down first. As much as he wanted to punch the guy in the face by then, he’d seen what happened when someone got too close to one of these unhinged fake gods. His personal satisfaction had to give way to getting the job done and, you know. Saving the world.

Did Morrigan give you Felassen’s Rune? How did Rook use it?

She did! Rook used it to beat the living fuck out of Elgar’nan, best believe. Super helpful, that!

Did Rook have a lover to talk with before the final battle? How did they feel in that moment?

Hoo boy, he sure did. Kalle was wrecked after he got out of the fade--he didn’t even realize how long he’d been in there. He was super headfucked about Varric, spitting mad about Solas, and generally just felt so much of everything that he was pretty goddamn numb. He checked on his team and then went back to the meditation room to pass out. But couldn’t. He just kept thinking he’d open his eyes and be back in Solas’s prison. He kept wanting to go next door and talk to Varric. He wanted to claw the gods to pieces with his fingernails and he wanted to stay here, in this room, quietly, and ignore the rest of the world forever.

Lucanis found him like that. For the first time, Kalle admitted how overwhelmed and lost he was to someone other than Varric or Solas--because it was Lucanis who was asking. And then he showed that, just as Kalle had learned what went on in Lucanis’s mind at the worst of times, Lucanis had been paying attention to Kalle’s too. When he needed to feel something good, to feel someone good, Lucanis went above and beyond for both of them. And frankly, so did Spite.

The next day, as they headed out to confront Elgar’nan, they made their promises to each other. Kalle that he’d be there for Lucanis any way he could, Lucanis that he’d kill any god if it meant he ended up in Kalle’s arms. For Lucanis to say “I love you” was beyond unexpected--not because Kalle didn’t know it or feel the same, but because Lucanis expressing himself verbally was very, very new. But it sure as fuck was something to fight for. 

After defeating Elgar’nan, how did Rook deal with Solas and the veil? Was it different than they had planned? If so, why and how?

Kalle was absolutely ready to try the bait and switch with the knife, and then to die beating the fuck out of Solas if that failed. 

But then the Inquisitor showed up, and Morrigan brought Mythal to the party, and Solas, to everyone’s surprise, crumbled. He sobbed like a baby as they talked him down, and in spite of everything he’d done to all of them, to the elven people, to the dwarves, to the world, and to Kalle personally… he actually felt for him.

But was so, so goddamn relieved to have him go peacefully and for good.

Hopefully. He’s gone for good, right? Yeah. Totally. 

What did Rook do on the day after saving the world?

He briefly got together with Antoine and Evka to arrange the memorial for Davrin and Assan. Lucanis went with him. Bellara wanted to, but Neve convinced her to rest, considering what she’d gone through the day before was even worse than the rest of them. Everyone else convinced Kalle to rest, and at that point and he couldn't argue.

In the guest house, he and Lucanis opened that bottle of ancient port that Lucanis had been saving to celebrate with Davrin. One by one, the team found them, and they all spent a few hours and a few more bottles of wine telling stories, laughing, crying, reflecting, and celebrating.

Then they went to bed, and Kalle buried his face in Lucanis’s chest. They talked about where they’d go to look for wyverns as soon as they could get away. Then Kalle slept for 20 hours straight. When Lucanis slept, Spite held him just as tight.

Lightning Round - AFTERMATH VERSION

Favorite scent:

Coffee and Spite

Favorite food:

Rivaini Banana Bread, still.

Favorite animal:

Griffons. [Sobbing]

Favorite book or story:

He became a fan of The Randy Dowager Quarterly while in the Lighthouse. Choosing a favorite would be hard, but he and Bellara had a really good chat about “Two Telling Tails”. After his encounters with bears, this one struck Kalle as especially fun.

Favorite drink:

Antivan Port. Sometimes you just need something strong and sweet to balance out all that dark complexity in life.

Favorite item of clothing:

Gloves, sourced from Viago’s impeccable glove-maker, gifted by Lucanis.

Favorite keepsake:

Varric’s shaving mirror. [Sobbing]

Favorite place:

Still the quieter ruins of Arlathan. Always.

Favorite person:

Lucanis. And Spite. They finally got to meet his other favorite person, Henthorn.

Favorite little treat:

That thing Lucanis does with his… well, that’s another fic for another time. Someone else had clearly been reading The Randy Dowager, too.

[misc-obeyme]

HOLD UP, hold up, Ciaran has an older sister?! I didn't even know! ;-; And she's like a Bakery owner? Well, that's cool. I'm sure Beel would get along with her just fine, lol.

Speaking of Ciaran, does Ciaran have any romantic feelings towards the Obey me Cast? Do you ship them with anyone? I don't think you talked about that yet, unless i somehow missed it?

Btw, did you come up with a name for Ciaran's mom? xD

Also, don't stress yourself with writing Arrie's story. Don't push yourself with opening requests if you know it’s going to slow down or stress you out. Don't forget to drink water 🥛

Love your content 🫶🏼

Why yes, Ciaran does have an older sister! There's a little more detail about her in Ciaran's profile post, but her name is Fiadh (another Irish name lol it's pronounced fee uh). Actually, at one point Ciaran had four siblings. But I decided that was too many and cut out three of them. So now it's just Fiadh. She and Ciaran lived together until Ciaran was taken to the Devildom. She has a whole part in the beginning of Ciaran's story where she's trying to figure out what happened to them. She eventually gets to the Devildom with the help of a sorcerer and a witch, where she finally finds Ciaran. But yes, in the human world she owns a bakery!

Ah, I've mentioned it briefly a few times, but mostly all I've said is that I'm indecisive about who Ciaran could end up with. The thing is, I could write Ciaran's story however I want, so in the end it would be possible for me to have them fall in love with any character.

That being said, I think about them most often with Barbatos, Solomon, and Mammon. Everybody else generally stays platonic in my mind. Initially, I was always planning on having Ciaran fall for Mammon. I wrote some scenes where this starts to happen... but then of course Barb is my fave, so I wrote some scenes with him and Ciaran and... they work so well together. And then the same thing happened with Solomon lol.

Ciaran's story varies depending on who their love interest is. But those are my top three choices for them. I could also see them with Simeon or Satan, though.

But there are reasons that Ciaran specifically would be more likely to fall for Mammon, Barbatos, and Solomon. Like I swear it isn't just because I love those three lol. I think it was more like... I love writing about those three? So I wanted to create an MC that'd fit with them so I could write about all my faves.

ANYWAYYY I could write about Ciaran and their relationships all day lol.

And YES I actually DID come up with a name for their mom!! I'm still so surprised someone asked if she was single sadlkfjdlkfj. I decided that unlike her kids, she uses the anglicized version of her name because that's what her parents named her. So her name is Kathleen O'Mara and while she generally goes by Mrs. O'Mara or Mom/Ma, she went by Kate when she was younger and some family members still call her that.

And thank you so much, anon! It means a lot to me that you're concerned about my well being, honestly, because I sometimes don't prioritize it myself lol. But I am feeling really good about Arrie's story right now, so that's a plus! I'll definitely try to drink some water tonight, I forget to do that a lot...

[fountainpenguin]

“We're gonna party; make this moment last forever!”

---

New 130 Reasons Why I’m Fairy Trash update today!

Fairly OddParents || One-Shot - “Swim”

Read on FFN || Read on AO3

---

Well, it's that time of year again... the time when all the unwished wishes of Unwish Island need to be tallied and accounted for. Also an evil genius clone has moved in, so that's gonna be extra paperwork.

Anyway, just leave it to Binky! He and Jorgen are on the case!

(First 1,000 words under the cut)

54. Swim (Three weeks before "Anti-Poof")

Wednesday May 21st, "2008"

Year of Breath; Spring of the Frozen Planet

---

"This is nice!" Binky chirped, breaking his chocolate-drizzled croissant in half. Still warm… It smelled sort of like pudding in his hands. Crisp. Fresh. Wasn't that nice? You know, microwaves were underrated; he needed to get one for his house. All in all, eating at an outdoor café table had been a fantastic idea. Even in a city like this one, Earth always smelled so fresh and green. The fairy leaned back in his chair, bringing the croissant to his tongue. "You know, it really is too bad we never hang out anymore… Let's do brunch again sometime!"

He received no response from the two fairies sitting across from him. In fact, neither of his companions - one with curly purple hair, the other with waves seafoam green - had spoken the entire lunch. Oh, they'd both tried… They'd also both tried to eat, though were shaking apart with coffee cups in hand right about now. Chrysalis kept one hand on his bowtie, practicing breathing exercises that were meant to help him maintain his human form. Minty had already replaced her earrings twice because she jittered so much, they kept falling out. Neither had touched their own croissants. Binky gazed back at his friends in silence, chewing on his treat. Then he tilted back his head. Ah. Right… Wednesday. You know, when you spent every hour of your work day under Jorgen von Strangle's shadow, sometimes you really could forget the man was always there. He loomed behind Binky with a hoagie in one hand, his "walking stick" in the other. Jorgen still looked beefy in his human disguise, with nothing much about him changing besides his crown. Binky reached for a napkin and dabbed at the crumbs along his lips.

"How is your godkid?" he asked the two fairies. "Your current one's named Annie, right?"

"Y-y-yeah," Chrysalis squeaked, fighting not to spill his drink. "She's… she's, uh…"

"She's taking care of the class rabbit this weekend," Minty put in. "Mr. Cuddles is such a, um… sweetie."

Binky nodded and glanced at his watch. According to his friends, their godchild was taking a final exam and would be busy for another 40 minutes. Funny… They certainly looked like they had somewhere else they wanted to be. Errands? Yeah, maybe. They likely didn't get enough time for themselves, what with the new godkid. Maybe he should wrap this up. It seemed a little mean to keep them in their seats. They clearly had to go.

"How's your brother?" he asked Minty anyway. Just one or two more questions. Just to be polite. He didn't want to cut their brunch too short, just in case they found that rude. "Is he a doctor yet?"

"Y-y-y-yes," she stuttered back. In the sunlight, the tips of her hair were starting to turn white. She did not elaborate. Binky ate his chocolate croissant in silence.

Brunch ended shortly after. Binky tossed away his napkin, hugged them both, and bid his friends farewell. Chrysalis and Minty didn't stick around any longer than they had to. As soon as they were in the clear to poof, they raised their wands and disappeared. Binky set his hands to his hips and gave a long sigh.

"I never see those two anymore since their new godkid. I do hope things are all right at home."

Behind him, Jorgen let out a husky laugh and Binky glanced up again. Jorgen was a purebred fairy, his thick muscles bulging with a hundred plus generations of magical strength. He dwarfed most fairies by a long shot, but here on Earth, he'd needed to do very little to blend in among humans. Binky had lengthened his own legs and slightly squared his shoulders (not to mention swapped his purple tunic out for a neatly pressed shirt). Jorgen? He stood over Binky in his usual sweat-stained tank and camouflage army pants. In one hand, he gripped the giant star-tipped staff he always kept around as the Keeper of Da Rules. Around the humans, he'd disguised it as a rather plain walking stick. "Ha," he snorted. "Their cowering in fear is because of me."

"Yeah. I guess you're right." Binky brushed crumbs off his slacks and glanced about the road. No one in the nearby shops had reacted to Chrysalis or Minty poofing off in a cloud of dust. Were they good to leave? Or should they wait here a few minutes before making a move?

Jorgen patted his shoulder in mild sympathy. His clapping touch nearly buckled Binky's knees. "Well, now we have work to do… Are you ready for our next appointment, old friend?"

They'd spent all week combing through Timmy Turner's locker at the Fairy World Giant Unwished Storage facility. Actually, two weeks… though Binky had been out sick for two of those days, so it barely even counted. He liked Timmy well enough on the few occasions they'd crossed paths. Sweet kid. He had a gooey heart… but he did leave behind such a mess of discarded wishes in his wake. Honestly, it's like Cosmo and Wanda didn't know how to say "No" to him!

Most godkids didn't keep their fairies anywhere near as long as Timmy had, and even then, most of their wishes were, well… Pretty standard stuff. New toys. Tickets to amusement parks. The desire for parents to spend a little more time with them. Timmy's the only one who went so overboard, he was wishing up new, creative things every day. Binky always volunteered to help Jorgen when it came to cleaning stinky magic out of Timmy's locker before it could fester. You never knew what you might find in there, and every year, Binky felt a lot better when the work was done. No living creatures fearfully squeaking in need of food, or crushed by heavy books and bikes… No moldy food… It's just so much nicer to float inside a workplace that's been thoroughly scrubbed clean, right?

"If we must," Binky sighed. He picked a crumb from under his ring finger nail and tried to look at least a bit aloof. But, well… Cleaning Timmy's locker did come with certain benefits if you knew how to play your cards right. The trick was to get your supervisor to grant consent for you to check in on all of Timmy's discarded wishes. That way, once the indoor work was done, one lucky sucker could win a week of guaranteed fun on sunny Unwish Island, where the overflow had been relocated. Maybe even too. All counted as paid working hours, of course. Binky leaned back on his heels. "But I do want to poof out and grab milkshakes when we get the chance."

[Cnt'd on FFN / AO3 - Links at top]