#raindrops and flower petals event

[k-hotchoisan]

the scentist

<san x fem!reader>

Your neighbour—Choi San—is such a gentleman on top of being a complete hunk and smelling so fuckin good. Especially so when he offers his hoodie when he sees you being drenched. Well, nothing could come out of such a simple gesture of kindness, right?

Genres/Warnings: perverted & obsessed scentist!San, Olfactophilia (sexual arousal from scent), masturbation on clothing, oral (F receiving), unprotected sex, cumming untouched, armlock (light) breeding, pussy drunk San💙

💙 @san-network 💜

Taglist: @bro-atz @diamond-3 @mcarebearsstuff @choisansplushie @voicesinmyhead-rc @pre1ttyies @hwallazia @songmingisthighs @yeosangiess @interweab @mylovelymito @softwsan @yourlocaljonghoe @itza-meee @ywtf @jeon-ify

A/N: WE BEEN KNEW THAT I’D LEAVE MY FAVOURITE MAN FOR THE LAST!! 😮‍💨 don’t be sad that this event is ending ok,, we got more to cum come 🥰 thank u for giving my fics so much love as always!!

🩷back to staying perverted

Lavender. Sweet pea. Azalea. Gardenia. 

The scents of the florals fill his lab, something he’s so used to already. As the concoction bubbles, he walks over to the other flowers potted along the shelf, pressing the petals against his nose, taking in their smell before he pulls away. He pulls off his goggles, walking over to his desk, staring at the standing whiteboard, filled to the corners with flower names, chemical compounds, and other miscellaneous details. Even though he’s doing fine, he feels that something is missing. Choi San feels stale and stuck. 

The rain is pattering down heavily against the pavement, he stares at the raindrops hitting the leaves of his plants. San often gets compliments on how beautiful his plants are, and how natural he is at gardening. San would don his signature smile and he would thank them for the compliment. Sometimes, his neighbours would come by to ask for gardening advice and San would gladly entertain them. This evening was no different. Another one of his neigbours who was growing greens had wanted to express appreciation by buying San his favorite fertilizers. Stacking them neatly in his cabinet, San then decides to head down to the reception to receive his parcel. 

Fuck. The downpour was so sudden. It totally caught you off guard, and you were drenched before you realised it. You make it to the entrance of your apartment complex, shivering slightly from the air conditioning. You shake off the excess water off your arms, and when you look up, your heartbeat quickens—your apartment complex crush is standing at his letterbox, filtering through his mail while he holds a parcel in his arms. He’s in a grey hoodie, and for some reason, it makes him look big, and it’s driving you insane. Shit, shit, shit. You pray that he doesn’t turn around and see you.

“Hey. Good evening y/n”, San greets cheerily. You force a smile, “Good evening San.”

San has his eyes on you, and you swear he’s eyeing you down—probably judging you for being drenched and shit. 

“Looks like you reached back just in time”, he teases, and you pout. 

“I feel like a drenched dog. Is this how dogs feel after a shower?” You reply, brushing your hands through your wet locks, all in an attempt to stop yourself from staring at San laugh—his voice is hypnotic enough to make you melt into a puddle already. The cold air from the air conditioning hits you once more, and this time you’re beginning to shiver uncontrollably on top of struggling to open your damn letterbox and not looking like a circus in front of your crush. 

You focus on fidgeting with your letterbox keys, your fingers reaching out to snatch the letters. When you close the latch, San has his hoodie unzipped, and he’s removing said outerwear. 

“San, what are you-“

He’s about to hand you the hoodie, but he instead opts to put his parcels in your hands, and he fucking fits the hoodie around your shoulders, and when he does, his smell floods your senses. He smells like a mix of floral—with hints of spice and citrus, and although for a brief moment, you have it locked in some part of your brain. His fingers brush against yours as he takes his parcels and letters from you, and it doesn’t help that he’s in a black shirt that hugs his biceps, shoulders, and chest a little too well. You barely muster the strength to peel your eyes away, feeling your heart flutter when his fingers brush against yours as he retrieves his packages back from you.

You look up, hoping that the fluorescent lights don’t highlight the heat that’s rushing to your cheeks. You’re still shivering, but suddenly you don’t feel as cold as before. 

“Thank you, San”, you smile. “I’ll wash it and return it to you ASAP.” San smiles in response and the both of you walk to the lift together, light conversations and laughter filling the spaces as your body and your heart gradually warm up.

San is exhausted—he’s been at the lab back to back, drafting report after report, and it’s been taking chunks out of him. Palm against his neck, he tilts his head, shutting his eyes as he stretches his neck, and then he sighs. His superiors finally approved his reports and now he has the god-given chance of going home and catching up on his sleep for the night.

The muffled sounds of his doorbell stir him up from his sleep. He doesn’t shift for a couple of seconds. Then his hands shift across the bedsheets to feel for his phone. The doorbell sounds a couple more times and San grunts in his groggy state, his fingers hitting against the edge of his phone, which he pulls closer to him to check the time.

It’s 2 pm. He crashed for 14 hours last night. 

He slowly sits up, letting his sight adjust to the afternoon sun filtering through his windows before he walks over to the front door. He’s slightly grouchy from the amount of sleep he clocked in, but as he swings the door open, the remainder of his sleep dissipates when he sees that it’s you standing before him.

“I’m sorry, did I wake you up?” You ask, rubbing your neck. “I wanted to return you this..”, you bring up a paper bag to San’s view. San is still registering this.

“But you weren’t home for the past couple of days, and I don’t have your phone number..” 

San blinks. Then his hands reach out to take the paper bag, and his eyes glance downwards. 

Ah, it’s his hoodie. 

He looks up back to you. “Thank you. Don’t tell me you’ve been coming here every day to try to pass me this?” 

“Yes and no..?” you answer with a smile. It spreads to San, who suddenly feels a shot of guilt for making you come to his unit when he wasn’t even there half of the time. 

“I’ll treat you to dinner for the trouble I’ve put you through”, he says hastily. He thinks the way your eyes widen and how pink is flushing at the tip of your ears is so adorable, and then he cuts you off before you attempt to decline his offer, “Pass me your phone.”

The phone in your hand is in his now and he types in his phone number before he hands it back to you. 

He leans in slightly closer, and there is a particular scent that slowly starts to make its way to his brain. Is it coming from you? For some reason, he hasn’t been able to get it out of his head since the day he lent you his hoodie. And there it was again, faint, but it was definitely there.

“Is there anything else I can help you with, y/n?”

He’s almost disappointed when he sees you shake your head, but at the same time, he has lab work to do, so he shuts the door after he sends you off with a smile, not knowing that you omitted that you wore his hoodie a couple more times after washing (mostly due to the cold weather).

He drops off the paper bag on his bedroom floor before he heads off to his home lab.

Unfortunately, the extra 14 hours of sleep still doesn’t spark inspiration for his chemistry, and he ends up spending barely an hour in his lab, mostly tending to his flowers, before he decides to call it a day. 

San is back in his bedroom, and he decides to unpack his hoodie from the paper bag. His hands reach into the bag and retrieve the hoodie, and when he unfolds the hoodie, his mind immediately hazes at the scent coming off the garment. Fuck. It’s even more prominent. It’s the scent that he can’t get out of his fucking head, and now it’s pretty much in his hands. 

You smell like fucking heaven, San thinks, placing the outerwear under his nostrils once more, inhaling, the smell completely entering the crevices of his mind. He groans and curses at the way his erection is pushing against his pants just from your fucking smell. It’s more than just the detergent you use—it’s so much more intimate and intoxicating than that, and it’s undoubtedly driving San fucking crazy. He’s so sure that this is the scent that he’s been chasing after.

San walks over to his bed, comfortable on the mattress while he pushes his pants past his thick thighs, his cockhead pushing against his underwear, forming a dark and wet spot. He inhales shakily, teasing himself, the precum thickening and staining more of his underwear. It doesn’t take him long to kick off his sweats and underwear completely, letting his cock spring out with a relieved sigh, before he slowly starts fucking his hand while his other hand has his head filled with your pheromones. 

The thought of you on that rainy evening, the way the rain had drenched your white shirt through, your bra showing, cupping your tits so fucking teasingly. San wonders if you did it on purpose because he would have just ripped your shirt open right then and there. His repressed fantasies begin to bubble up—the thought of him inviting you to his unit instead, letting his hands feel you up, making sure your goosebumps are from his touches rather than the cold because he swears he can warm you up quickly. He would press himself against you, taking in your scent, before he’d slip his hands underneath your pathetic white shirt, cupping your tits, then sliding your pants off—he knows he can’t even wait till the both of you reach his bedroom—the furthest the both of you would go? The fucking couch.

Your smell floats, and it’s dragging him deeper and deeper. San bucks his hips against his hand, soft moans pouring out his lips, whining your name against the fragrant garment, his precum turning thicker by the minute. He’s liked you ever since he met you when you first moved in, and now you’re filling up every part of his olfactory senses. He’s desperate to fill you up with him, make sure you’re holding your shirt up with your teeth, your eyes filling up with tears as he slams his cock into your warm pussy, over and over, forcing yourself to stay quiet so the neighbours don’t hear.  

Fucking hell. San’s thighs shake slightly at the thought of it. He takes another inhale, and it’s like a dopamine reset once more, perfect at the moment when he’s bringing himself to the edge. Your voice echoes in his head, the pretty sounds you’d make, the expressions that he would indulge in for himself.

Thick streams of cum bubble from his silt, and he almost suffocates himself from the sick pleasure of burying his face in his hoodie drenched in your scent, he catches his breath as the scent slowly fades when he pulls the hoodie from his face, panting from an orgasm that he knows will never be enough one time. 

As San washes off his high in the warm showers, he decides to attempt to recreate your scent, wanting to keep it all for himself. And he knows just a hoodie isn’t gonna be enough.

You’ve been flipping your apartment upside down, looking for your panties. At first, you didn’t notice that one pair went missing—chalking it off as you misplacing your laundry. But when the second one you swore you dropped off in the fresh laundry hamper disappears, along with a third, you realise something was amiss. You retrace your steps—you did have a couple of people over recently, but the majority of them were your girl friends, if you minus off how you and San have been going over to each other’s places for meals ever since the both of you exchanged phone numbers. Undoubtedly, your feelings for him have grown exponentially, especially when the both of you spent time with each other in (almost) close proximity. San had always been polite and helped around with cleaning up the dishes, and he had a very endearing habit of leaning in closer to you—whether to just tease you or to hear you better—it would never fail to make you act flustered around him before you would roll your eyes and push him away. 

Needless to say, the relationship had blossomed since that rainy evening. You just didn’t expect to grow so close with your apartment complex crush, and while there were nights where San’s face, San’s voice, San’s body would bubble up to the surface when your orgasms washed over you, leaving you squirming and shy once the post nut clarity hit, you thought to yourself that the relationship between the both of you was good enough for now.

You scratch your head, racking your brains as to where your panties might have magically disappeared to. You’re lost in thought until the ping from your phone brings you out of it. You go over to check, and it’s from San—reminding you of dinner at his place. Right, the panties can wait for now. 

“I hope I’m not late”, you smile as San opens the door for you to let you in. San returns it, “No, I just placed the order. It’s gonna take awhile.” 

You take a seat on his couch. No matter how many times you’ve been to his place recently, you always feel that it’s still so spacious. 

Then he breaks your train of thought. 

“Is there something you’d like to do while waiting?” You let your eyes wander around his apartment again, and they land on the potted plants on his window sill. 

Your eyes dart away from how San is staring down—his body is facing towards you, giving you his fullest, and it’s making you slightly self-conscious. 

“I’m wondering what you’re always so busy with.”, you say. You’re ready to be rejected when San doesn’t answer right away. Right, it’s probably something personal to him too. But you can’t help but overthink when he doesn’t reply immediately sometimes. It makes you feel so childlike. 

He stands up, gesturing you to follow him. “It’s a little embarrassing”, San replies as he guides you to the tightly shut door. He presses his fingertip onto the keypad—it lights up green and San pushes the door knob down, and the door pushes open. 

It is as if it is another world. The lights are dim and the air is a lot cooler, albeit slightly more humid thanks to the myriad amount of plants littered around the room. He has so many species—differentcolours and different flowers. The scents hit you next, the floral scent floating around your nostrils at different intensities. 

“A whole nursery?” You exclaim, walking near to some of the flowers. 

“Yes and no. It’s more of a lab”, San corrects you, walking over to the heavy desk just full of lab equipment. “Sorry, it’s kinda messy.”

You shake your head, still taking in the sight of his botanically busy room, amazed. 

As you near more of the equipment, the scents grow stronger. The whole lab smells so fragrant, and you’re surprised that it’s not overpowering, to say the least. 

“So, what do you do here exactly?” You ask, taking another whiff of the fragrance while staring at the rows of test tubes before you. 

“I make scents. It’s just a side hobby of mine on top of my research”, San explains. He picks up a test tube and gestures you to take a whiff, and so you do, pleasantly surprised at how much the scent smells just like him. 

“Then what’s your little project now?” 

San pauses. He doesn’t look you in the eye for that split second. As he parts his mouth to answer, the doorbell rings, and it jumps him out of his thoughts. The food is here. 

Seated across San, as you always do, San is plating the takeout while you prepare the utensils. The topic of his lab comes up again, but you completely forget about asking about his projects.

Midway through the conversation, the rice cake that you were trying to eat somehow slips off the utensil and drops onto your clothes, causing you to jump in surprise, somehow toppling your plate with the leftover sauce, on top of staining on your clothes, much to your dismay. 

“Shit”, you curse, casting an irritated glance at the splatter on your clothes. The plate clatters on the floor. You stand there, slightly dumbfounded at the situation. You’re wondering if you should just head home to change out, considering that your unit isn’t too far from his. But before you have the chance to bring up that suggestion, San cuts you off.

“You can drop your clothes into the washing machine. In the meantime, you can borrow my hoodie. It should be on the clean laundry hamper.”

“San-“

He turns to you with a comforting smile. “It’s fine. Rice cake sauce isn’t the easiest to clean off when you leave it for too long. I’ll clean up the floor.”

You realise arguing with him isn’t work out in your favour, nor will it get the rice cake sauce off your clothes any quicker, so you decide to heed his words and head to his room.

Undressing yourself once you shut the door, you drop your soiled clothes into the washing machine. It was then you realise that you are pretty much naked, in Choi San’s fucking bedroom. Struggling to keep your head out of the gutter, you decide to focus on finding that damn grey hoodie. Your eyes scan his room, trying to search for the grey hoodie. And your eyes land on a thick-looking piece of garment on one of the laundry hampers. You walk over to pick it up.

You put his hoodie over, and there it is again—the spicy citrus smell. Choi San’s smell. Your thighs push against each other a little tighter this time. Then something in your peripherals catch your attention—a lace garment. You inch closer, and your heart drops. 

It’s a pair of lace underwear. 

Fuck. Is he seeing someone and he didn’t tell you? A thick lump forms in your throat. 

And then it goes away when you start picking up another two more panties from the hamper, and the realisation hits you like a fucking truck—these are your fucking panties. 

Things are not adding up in your brain, that’s for fucking sure. 

At that moment, San bursts into the bedroom, and a panicked expression scribbled across his face. His eyes are blown wide open when they land on the three pairs of panties in your hands. 

You stare back at him, almost mirroring his expression, the only difference being confusion for you instead. 

The corner of San’s lips pull into a half smile. “Oops.”

“San, what’s the meaning of this?” You ask, feeling your face flush rapidly. 

“Well”, San pauses. “you asked what scent I’m making next right? It’s yours.” 

“My scent?” You echo back in question to him. San sighs, his shoulders relaxing as he inches closer to you, trapping you underneath him when you finally hit his bed. 

“Yes, darling. Your scent”, his voice almost turning into a whisper, dropping octaves lower. “You’re so cruel—keeping something so intoxicating to yourself.” 

You swallow hard. San’s eyes still reflect his usual gentle demeanor, but now it’s slowly being tinted with something else. Something more ominous. Despite that, it only draws you in, like a prey being slowly hypnotized by her predator. You should be shocked, terrified even, but the only thing streaming through the nerves of your brain is the internal begging for San to just eat you up right now. 

You suddenly realise that the hoodie isn’t zipped up, the outerwear slipping down your arms. You remain still, your heartbeat slamming against your ribcage. 

“You can run out of my apartment now. I’m giving you five seconds”, San tells you, and your mind is spinning at the thought of him even giving you a chance to leave. 

Five seconds pass. You’re still staring up at the male above you, whose lips are curling into a satisfied smirk. 

His fingers cup your jaw, and he tells you, “Open up.” Sparks splatter across your eyelids the moment his lips collide with yours. You pull him closer on instinct, the feeling of his thick erection behind the two layers of fabric sending you into an orbit on top of his tongue teasing yours. He pulls back, licking off the strings of saliva between the both of you. His gaze is locked onto yours.

“Please? Let me taste you. I promise I’ll make you feel so fucking good”, his request sounding more like a beg. Your mind is hazy. Choi San? In between your fucking legs? You swallow hard, and then you nod. 

San lowers himself to your clothed cunt, his eyes shut in bliss when he presses himself against your pussy. 

“Heaven”, is all he mutters, his eyes casting you a glazed expression that was definitely about to drive you fucking insane, before his fingers pull against the waistband of your panties, slipping them off you. 

The moment you feel his tongue press against your pussy, your mind threatens to shut off. San is breathing heavily against your soaking pussy, taking in the sight, taste, and smell of what you’re finally giving to him. Every time your thighs jerk to shut at the sensation of his tongue licking you up, his hands push you open for him forcing you to take his tongue in your cunt, and it’s wiping out any remaining rational thoughts you didn’t even know you had. 

Your fingers tug against his scalp, pushing your hips deeper onto his tongue, your back arched from how fucking good he feels. His tongue is lapping you up, teasing your clit over and over again once he hits the sweet spot, his fingers leaving imprints on your thighs when he hears you whine and moan his name. 

All San can think about is how fucking amazing you taste—he knew it would be another fucking level than pressing his nose against the fabric of your panties and fucking into his hand for the past few weeks, but actually letting you fuck his face? He’s on fucking cloud nine. 

His glazed-out eyes shift to look up at you, watching the way you’re squirming under him, the sounds of his wet tongue fucking you, tasting you, echoing around his room. Your cream and pussy are the only things he can register, and he wants to keep it for himself, forever.

“S-San-“, you cry out, your mind just threatening to blank out at every flick of his tongue. He’s building your orgasm at such a dangerous pace, and tears are pooling at the corners of your eyes when you feel something funny bubbling at the pit of your stomach. “I think I’m gonna fuck-“

“That’s it. Let it go for me. That’s a good fucking girl”, San encourages, before his tongue presses against your clit, giving you another lick before white washes over you, your cunt pulsing violently against his tongue from the sheer pleasure, then clear fluids splattering onto San’s pretty face—who seemed unfazed, considering he’s still lapping your cunt up, while you’re almost thrashing above him as the overstimulation starts to sink in. Your moans sound like cries when you beg him to stop. San doesn’t relent, and he only stops when he suddenly whimpers, switching over to kiss your thighs, decorating your plump flesh with love bites. He pushes a finger in, letting you stain and coat his fingers, enjoying your whines before he pulls out and towers over you. 

“Fuck, if I’d known you’d taste this good, I would have stolen your panties sooner”, he mutters, cleaning his fingers with his tongue, desperate to taste you again.

You’re catching your breath from going through the most mind-blowing orgasm, watching San pulling his shirt over his head, and then slipping out of his sweats, your breath caught in your throat when his fat cock comes into view, thick and heavy, and covered in thick cum. 

San’s fingers curl around your neck, and he lowers himself to litter kisses across your neck and jaw, it’s giving you goosebumps, your arms automatically wrapping around his neck to pull him closer. 

He pauses right at the shell of your ear. 

“I want to wear you over and over again. I want to lock you up in me—bottle you up so I can keep you for myself.”

“Then do it. I’m here for you to dip into your pretty little fantasies in, San.”

You swear you see something snap in the poor male, especially from the way he takes a deep inhale—shakily— before he parts your lips with his, leaving you breathless when your little steamy make-out session ends. 

“You don’t know what you do to me, darling”, San cautions when he pulls back. His hair is tousled but fuck, he still looks so fucking good. “And I’m not stopping even if you’re screaming.”

Fuck. 

He fucks his hand, soft sighs leaving his lips, as his cum dribbles down his length, before he lines up to your hole and pushes in easily. 

You hear him groan above you, your eyes are fixated on the way he’s losing himself in your pussy, and your mind is finally growing blank the more his cock fills you up. He’s stretching you open so fucking good, filling you up to the hilt. 

“You’re squeezing me so much, darling. Fuck. Are you fucking kidding me?” His eyebrows are scrunched, his hands holding your legs up while he lets you adjust to his cock. 

But he doesn’t warn you before he starts moving, his impatience completely overriding any ounce of rationale he has left in him. 

“So good. San, you feel so fucking good”, your moans sounding like cries whenever his hips snap against yours, the obscene sounds only adding to the tension. 

“You take me so fucking well, darling”, San’s voice is ringing in your ears. “Look at your fucking pussy just swallowing me up like that.” 

You don’t even reply to that, your eyes are rolled to the back of your head, and your head is somewhere in fucking heaven where San is definitely fucking you into. 

Just when you feel that you were about fucking fall apart on his cock, he pulls out, and you barely manage to catch your breath when San instructs you to turn over. You do, your ass up for him, and he enters your cunt once more, before fucking into you from the back. You don’t fucking know how, but you swear that his cock feels even thicker from the back.

His hands press against your hips, fucking you deep before he lets his hands slide down your body and he stops at your neck, gesturing you to look up at him as he leans down to press his lips against yours—all while rearranging your guts from the back. 

He lets you pull back when you feel your neck is growing sore, and then he puts his body weight onto you, his arm tucking underneath your neck. 

“Such a good fucking girl for me. You feel so fucking amazing”, San whispers, tickling every crevice of your brain as he presses his nose against the curve between your neck and shoulder, his thrusts turning more like ruts. The arm lock around your neck isn’t cutting off oxygen thankfully, but the thought of him choking you out only drags you closer to your high. 

“Cumming, I’m cumming San-“, you whimper, tears trickling from your eyes from how much his cock is constantly hitting in such deep fucking spots of your pussy. 

“Me too, babe. Gonna fill you up so nice and good, that’s what you’d like, right?” San teases, his cock twitching in you before he groans, his warm cum filling you up so good right at the same time your orgasm hits you once more, making you squeeze even more cum from San, perfectly milking him dry in your pussy. 

“So fucking perfect”, you hear San mutter, and you can’t help but flush, even though he just fucked every ounce of sanity out of you. His lips trail down the nape of your neck, his eyes are locked onto you, hazy and tinted with a hint of a growing obsession you could never tell. 

He’s not letting go of you. 

[lephamquynhnhu]

Panacea

Chapter 1: Pretty ripples on water

Dan Feng x Fem!Reader

WARNINGS/ TAGS: The reader has a default name, OOC. (This is a work of fanfiction, events are not aligned or relevant to the original work)

Word count: ~1,1k

Summary: He met you on a drizzling day when hydrangea fully bloomed on its field. Amidst the sea of mild pastel petals, Dan Feng never thought the flowery domain that intertwined your fate was the precise thing withered with you. They said he was a dragon, a hero, a sinner, but never a person with love, hatred, sorrow, or joy like everyone else in this world. However, it was a demi-truth. He committed the cardinal sin because of you.

Note: Do you like...pain?

The soothing melody of raindrops falling through the thick foliage barely touches his hair as Dan Feng strides on the worn path underneath. The Ten-Lords commissioned him to investigate the supernatural phenomena in the Faery Forest, which inhabitants rumor it recently haunted. The golden sun conceals itself behind the aloft gloomy clouds draping an eerily grey ambiance, and the voidness of birds singing wafts a scary serenity.

There are plenty of stories and myths about the woods, but the infamous one was a wise Nymph who guarded the forest as the Alliance established. When the first Denizen of Abundance occurred, to preserve her homeland from the crossfire of the war, the Nymph divided herself into divine fragments asunder to enhance the endurance of the woods. Thanks to the Nymph's might, her forest remained intact after devastating battles. However, she could not regain her strength to unite divinity, so the wise Nymph gradually faded, her name eventually fell into oblivion, and the story is no more than a mythopedia. It is said that her Authorities dissolved in the forest to protect her beloved homeland forever. The native Loufu named the woods based on that story, and whatever the stories are, this forest has sustained through many sanguinary warfare and become one of the most venerated destinations.

The report says that citizens who live near the haunted place or some passing by currently hear a bizarre resonance in the Faery forest at dawn, and they even claim to witness jack-o'-lantern at twilight. To verify the statement, Dan Feng's presence from the blush of morn strolling around an hour and finds nothing akin to the rumor. The drizzle is getting heavier as raindrops start seeping through his attire. Looking at the overcast sky through a dense web of leaves, he forecasts it will soon be a downpour. When Dan Feng considers postponing the commission, a weak sound threads through ancient arbors, which beat like a song - a nursery rhyme. Simultaneously, a chilly breeze permeates with moisture rises as though pushing him toward the siren as soon as the resonance appears. The glint of surprise quickly quenches when Imbibitor Lunae decides to follow the sound's origin.

He keeps running with all senses on guards under the last remnants of light dimly lit his way until a field of flowers welcomes him when exiting the forest. Dan Feng never thought there would be people living beyond the woods and isolating themselves from society. Reflecting in those cyan irises is a girl standing amidst the hydrangea fully bloomed on its field, who raises her voice while one hand holds a cart of multi-colored flowers and the other curls around the axis of her umbrella. Suddenly, when detecting a foreigner's existence, you stop singing and tilt your head toward his position. To your right, an emotionless man with a prominent horned crown atop his forehead whom you know precisely. The drizzle turns into rain as water continuously trails down the High Elder's porcelain face.

"Your Majesty, it may become torrential rain. Would you like to shelter at my house?" - You kindheartedly open an invitation while sauntering to Dan Feng and sharing your umbrella. A weary inquiry escapes Imbibitor Lunae's lips as he notices you use the title in greeting, but Dan Feng only receives a mysterious smile.

Outside the limited space, raindrops seem progressively heavier when they drum on the umbrella panel, and the surroundings are covered in a misty veil. The calm demeanor in the Long Scion's eyes never wavers, and you can tell he sights right through your soul, searching for something. A familiar feeling creeps up his mind, yet somehow different. "Yes, please lead the way." - Dan Feng eventually accepts your invitation after a brief moment as he gently takes the shalt from your gloved hand.

After avoiding the rain at your house, all suspicions were clear, and he assumed to close the case because the enigmatic echo was your singing voice, and the fen-fire originated from your paper lantern. When Dan Feng mentioned those phenomena, an astonishment tinged your face yet soon morphed into grinning. "My sincere apologies, Your Majesty. But, you may conclude your commission now." - You breathlessly said while trying to regain your formal posture.

The crispy sound of embers crackling mingles with thunderbolts from afar, which craft an inexplicably refreshing atmosphere. Compared to the natural noise outside, Dan Feng thinks your voice seems to dissolve into the ether. Although those emerald orbs never leave the white wall made from endless heavy raindrops, his attention still focuses on your conversation. Besides, the High Elder learned you are a florist who has settled here about three years. "I succeeded in my grandmother's business after looking after her ailment.'' - Your tone is monotonous, but a distant feeling boiling up while leisurely replenishing his teacup. Dan Feng keeps practicing a good listener's role and slowly sips the tea. The smoky steam flowing at the brim that carries a floral scent of Wildrose thread through his nostrils reduces mind stress.

Unknowingly, your one-way dialogue at the wooden terrace goes smoothly under the chilly downpour of early summer. When the homemade delicacy marries with the beverage is out of stock, and the tea is drying up in the pot, the shower stops falling, which renders a landscape as spectacular as pictured. At first, Dan Feng thought your lifestyle was a little too austere as if the only living being at a monastery and sealing away the community. Nevertheless, he comprehends the reason as the sunlight shines brightly again. The previous rain aqua absolutes all reveal a Shangri-La with a boundless field of vivid flowers. Boasting butterflies start levitating around the garden while a rainbow faintly appears on the horizon.

Imbibitor Lunae intended to carry his commission, but now, this Elysium might cast a spell to change his mind, to return once again. Furthermore, the treat you offered also brings up his appetite, so Dan Feng wants to taste them once again.

"Do you wish to grow any plant's breed?" - The High Elder says as he stands up from the wooden chair, fetching his cloak with eyes still fixed on the flowery domain unfold. You tilt your head quizzically because it is uncommon for him to open the conversation, unable to respond immediately. "I want to compensate you for your kindhearted hospitality." - He quickly clarifies your inquiry as if possessing mind-reading arts. This time, Dan Feng initiates eye contact with you; a gentle wind blows through, causing dispersed petals to swirl around. His lashes lightly move in approval when he hears your answer. Empirical Peony sure will gorgeously bloom under your care. Before leaving, Dan Feng abruptly halts his foot as he realizes he has forgotten something essential.

"What is your name?" You look at his tall back while snickering behind your palm to suppress the giggles. A cozy orange hue from the blazing flame that nestles in your fireplace shimmers on your face as you answer "Yi Ting. Yi in ripples on water, Ting in pretty."

[sky-the-confused]

Hello! Congratulations on the 100 followers! 🥰 I would like to kindly request Petrichor for Zoro hehe tysm! ❤

Oh yes of course!

Perfect for a tsundere.

Also sorry for the late reply @roronoatrash ! Had to deal with some technical difficulties, but now we're back up and running again! Hope you like it!

when they're gone (raindrops and flower petals event)

Roronoa Zoro x gn!reader

Warnings: a lil angst. Just a sprinkle.

Summary: zoro misses you when you're gone.

A/N: this is the perfect combination. It's really just *chef's kiss*

Pacing. Why was he pacing? Back and forth on the wooden deck of the Sunny, the heat blazing against his back, a hand on his swords, though he wasn't sure why. His green hair was disheveled, probably from all of the times he ran his fingers through it.

It must've been the island causing this behavior.

Or maybe it was because you were gone.

The Sunny had only been docked for a little while. Just enough to fill the Log Pose and move on. You were going to get some things, you said. You'd be back soon, you said.

You told him to stay put because you didn't want him to get lost.

He shook his head, looking out to the island's scenery.

It'd been two hours. Where were you?

He wouldn't admit it. No, of course not. He wasn't worried about you. He wasn't searching the horizon for your figure. Waiting for something to go wrong so he could come to your rescue. He wasn't ignoring the way that Luffy called his name, the way Nami and Robin's eyes regarded him with knowing looks.

The hot sun beat on his back, sweat beading on his forehead. He pushed back his green hair with one hand, still keeping his eyes to the horizon at all times.

He blinked. Once. Twice.

Then, there was your silhouette, stark against the lush greenery of the island. He felt his heart skip a beat in his chest, a weight leaving his shoulders. His lips curled into a grin. When you got close enough, he ran to the side of the Sunny, waving to you from above. "Oi, y/n! Took you long enough!"

You simply laughed, finding yourself aboard the ship within moments. Without thinking, Roronoa Zoro took you into his arms, his hard torso tight against your chest.

"Miss me?" You asked teasingly in his ear.

"No." He buried his nose in your hair, but you could still see the way his ears turned red as he held you tighter.

[thethreebroomsticksficfest]

Sands of Time

With the end of our soirée in sight, it is only fitting that we attend one last social event together. Today, @starlingflightt is taking us to a Slug Club party alongside Lily Evans and James Potter! Read it below or on AO3:

Username: StarlingFlight

Prompts: Sand & Chocolate Frog Card 

Summary: She just wants a relaxed evening of dull but essential networking, but a lot can happen at a Slug Club party and when has Lily Evans ever gotten what she wants?

Professor Slughorn’s office had been transformed. Flowers bloomed over every imaginable surface; peonies stood in bunches upon the windowsills, catching the final glows of orange sun on their blushing pink petals. Climbing vines of sweet peas wound around the supporting wooden columns which dotted the space, filling it with a sweet fragrance that would not have been out of place in a meadow. The centre of the room had been cleared of all furniture; from the ceiling overhead, bright petals fell like raindrops onto the heads of hundreds of happy, smiling, party-goers, before magically disappearing into nothing. Lily had never felt more alone. 

The party wasn’t proving to be the distraction she hoped and Petunia’s letter - now shredded into a thousand tiny pieces and scattered across the Hogwarts grounds - was still burning a hole in her mind. Sighing, she watched as Slughorn's guests mingled with ease. Their quiet conversation and easy laughter all merged together in a low hum which grew until she could barely hear the delicate sounds of the string quartet positioned on a raised platform - carpeted with wildflowers - beside the doors. 

Her gaze swept the sea of unfamiliar faces, considering each one in turn in search of a potential connection. Her attention settled on a middle-aged wizard with a salt-and-pepper goatee, he smiled and Lily thought the expression a friendly one. She took a step forward, preparing to make her move, but someone beat her to it. 

Lily paused. Prosper Snyde, a seventh-year Slytherin and, in her opinion, deeply unpleasant human being, strode up to the wizard with a smug smile. The wizard exclaimed in recognition before clapping Snyde jovially on the back.

Her stomach churned and she took a decisive step backwards. Her judgement was clearly off. The desire to leave - an urge Lily had been valiantly fighting all evening, filled her once more. She spun on her heel as she took another step away from the crowd, intent on making her way to the door but  her back collided with something large and slightly squashy. A hand gripped her shoulder. 

Lily whirled around, one hand already heading for her wand.

“Lily,” A familiar voice boomed.Her hand stopped in mid-air as she recognised Slughorn’s warm smile and walrus moustache. “Just who I was looking for - come with me!” 

She was given no chance to protest, not that doing so was an option for her. The only reason she had attended this stifling party, when Lily could think of few places she’d rather be, was to appease Slughorn - possibly the only person likely to get her any sort of respectable work when she finished Hogwarts next year. 

Plastering a smile across her face, Lily followed Slughorn. He was so sure of himself, in this room full of the magical elite, that his wide form cut an easy path through the crowd and she was able to follow easily to the opposite side of the room. They passed a tower of champagne flutes, an enormous bottle was suspended in mid-air above it, pouring golden liquid down like a fountain. 

Skirting around a small sitting area, where a group of elderly wizards, and one cunning-looking witch, were engrossed in a card game Lily did not recognise, Slughorn paused as they reached an alcove built into the wall, which Lily knew usually housed his desk in front of an ornately carved marble fireplace. 

The desk, it seemed, had been removed. Leaving a small space which still contained the fireplace, and a tall man with a finely lined face and jet black hair that matched his dress-robes, leaning up against it. He inclined his head politely towards Slughorn in greeting before picking up a glass of champagne which had been resting on the mantelpiece beside him, and taking a long drink from it. 

“Admiring my hourglass, I see, Monty!” Slughorn gestured towards an elaborate glass vessel atop the fireplace; pure, white sand flowed steadily from the top half into the bottom, carefully worked silver snakes had been wrought onto the sides of the hourglass, emeralds had been set deeply in place of eyes. 

“I’m not sure I’d say admiring…” The man -Monty, apparently - said cagily. His expression looked oddly familiar but Lily could think of no reason she would know anyone at this party. “It’s certainly not to my taste.” 

Slughorn did not seem in the least affronted by Monty’s lack of enthusiasm towards his decor. On the contrary, he laughed loudly and clapped Monty - who looked rather too frail for such vigorous behaviour - good-naturedly on the back. 

“It was a gift, of course. From Artemius Elwick.” Slughorn’s tone made it clear both Monty and Lily should know who Artemius Elwick was. Monty nodded knowingly and Lily followed suit, hoping desperately that her face didn’t look as blank as her mind currently felt. 

“A rather curious object -” Slughorn continued, evidently satisfied that he had suitably impressed his audience. Lily breathed a sigh of relief. “The sand flows in accordance with the quality of conversation. Should you find yourself stuck with a dullard, the sand will speed up, but, if you’re fortunate enough to enter a conversation you wish would never end, time, rather helpfully, stands still.” 

Intrigued, Lily turned to examine the hourglass once more. Sure enough, now that her attention had been captivated by such an extraordinary piece of magic, the sand had begun to slow, trickling, grain by grain, into the bottom glass chamber. 

“I knew you’d like that,” Slughorn said. Lily could hear the fond smile on his face, though her attention remained fixated on the hourglass. 

“Lily is one of my best and brightest students,” she heard Slughorn say and forced her focus back to the conversation at hand. “Just this afternoon she brewed me a flawless Draught of Living Death.” 

“Draught of Living Death, that would make you a sixth-year?” Monty asked with what she could only assume was feigned interest. Lily nodded in confirmation. “And a dab hand at potions?” 

“I’m alright,” Lily said modestly as her cheeks began to burn. 

“Alight?” Slughorn repeatedly incredulously. “She’s much better than alright. Outstanding on her OWL and very-likely to be Head Girl next year.” 

Lily fought the urge to fan her face with her hand, sure it must be redder than her quaffle. She held her gaze steady, determined not to show any hint of self-doubt. There were plenty of people who would doubt her based on nothing but the status of her birth, Lily would not join them. 

 “It sounds like you have a very promising future ahead of you,” Monty said kindly. 

Lily nodded noncommittally. How promising the future could be for someone in her position remained to be seen. 

Perhaps sensing a lull in the conversation, Slughorn turned to Lily, “Monty invented Sleekeazy’s, you know? The hair potion. He owns significant shares in Witchbottle Workshop, he’s always on the lookout for new talent.” 

Monty released a splutter of amused laughter. “My shares are purely financial. Mostly, I’m on the lookout for a good spot to nap, these days.” he said wryly. 

“Nonsense,” Slughorn said, waving a hand in front of his face as though attempting to swat away Monty’s words. “I know you wouldn’t -” 

Whatever it was Slughorn was confident Monty wouldn’t do, Lily never found out. His words were drowned out by a loud cry of “DAD!” 

Her head whipped around immediately at the sound of that voice. Sure enough two boys were making their way excitedly through the crowd towards Lily and her companions. Monty’s face transformed into a grin and Lily wondered how she hadn’t seen it before, hadn’t immediately placed the vague familiarity she’d sensed. 

“James, my boy!” Monty cried happily as James Potter fought his way out of the throng of party-goers and barrelled into him, knocking his glasses askew. Sirius Black trotted a few steps behind. They were both dressed in fine, yet understated dress robes. Black’s hair fell effortlessly into his face, while Potter looked like he’d made no attempt to tame his, as usual. 

“Sirius,” Monty said fondly, releasing James and pulling Black into a firm hug. Monty let go of Black and took a step back to examine both boys. “You both look well. Your mother has it in her head that you’re too focussed on Quidditch to look after yourself.”

James rolled his eyes. Sirius grinned delightedly as he threw an arm around James’ shoulder. “Tell Effie I’m taking good care of him,” he said solemnly. 

“Like she’ll believe that!” James said through a snicker. 

Lily took a small step backwards, intent on escape. James Potter’s perfectly blissful domestic life was more than she could handle tonight. The small movement, however, seemed to have the opposite of her desired effect as James turned to face her before she could take another step. 

“Alright, Evans?” he said, his voice tinged with mild surprise. 

“Oh, hello,” She said faintly, as though she had only just noticed James standing there. “Sirius,” She inclined her head in Black’s direction. 

“Professor Slughorn was just telling me all about Lily’s skill at potion brewing,” Monty said. 

James grinned and Lily’s stomach seemed to tie itself in knots. She shook herself internally, there was no reason to feel nervous. Last year, perhaps, James would have taken this opportunity to have a laugh at her expense, but she had seen a change in him recently. Now that Lily thought about it, she could not remember the last time he’d said something that made her reach for her wand, intent upon jinxing him. 

“I wouldn’t know,” James said with a shrug. “She refuses to sit with me in class.” 

"I don't refuse to do anything!" Lily burst out, without consciously deciding to speak. 'It's impossible to get anywhere near you, with John, George and Ringo following you around everywhere." 

She gestured vaguely towards Sirius, who silently mouthed ‘Who’s Ringo?’ at James and received a confused shrug in response. Lily’s mouth snapped shut as her brain caught up with her. What was she doing? She was supposed to be making a good impression, not being baited into insulting Potter in front of his apparently influential father. 

“I should probably be going,” she said, taking a step away from the little group and silently praying she looked like she had somewhere important to be. Not, as was the truth, like she was going to scurry up to Gryffindor Tower and hide in the solitude of the hangings of her four-poster for the rest of her miserable life. 

“No, you don’t have to leave,” James said quickly. 

“I’m sure you want to catch up with your father,” Lily said politely, inclining her head towards Monty.

“Nonsense,” said Monty, giving James a doting smile. “I was about to head out, myself. I’m not as young as I used to be.” 

“I’ll walk you out,” James offered. 

Monty shook his head. “I daresay I can find my way to the front doors perfectly well. I’ll see you both -” he looked between James and Sirius. “- at Platform Nine and Three Quarters tomorrow.” 

James began to protest, intent on seeing his father to the exit but Monty waved away his arguments with one hand. “I’m sure I raised you not to leave a young lady unaccompanied.” He threw a meaningful look in Lily’s direction. 

“I can walk your father out,” Sirius offered, shoving James in Lily’s direction before turning back towards Monty. “I need to speak to you anyway - I need some investment advice.” 

James’ eyebrows shot up past the frames of his glasses. ‘Investments?’ he mouthed as though the concept was brand new to him. Sirius merely winked and fell into step beside Monty who had shook Slughorn’s hand, kissed the top a bewildered looking James’ head and was already making his way towards the door.

“Have fun,” he called over his shoulder. The last thing Lily saw before he disappeared into the crowd was a distinct twinkle in his hazel eyes and then she and James were left alone with Slughorn. 

“I really ought to be going too,” Lily tried again. “I wanted to get some last minute -” 

“Leave?” Slughorn looked aghast at the suggestion. “Of course you can’t leave! It’s still early!” 

James grinned at her and the knots in her stomach tightened inexplicably once more. “You wouldn’t leave a gentleman all alone, would you, Evans?” 

“I’ll let you know if I see one.” 

Far from looking offended, James’ smile widened until it was almost too dazzling to look at. Lily felt the corners of her lips twitch, the first genuine smile she could remember since Petunia’s letter had arrived two days ago. 

Slughorn did not seem to have heard Lily and James’ exchange, busy as he was scanning the crowd above their heads. “Look,” he said, his eyes lighting up as though he had just spotted a fat pot of gold. “There’s the Evanders. Caius has a seat on the Wizengamot and Fulvia is a big name in Hippogriff breeding, she sends me the finest quills from her herd- Come! I’ll introduce you.” 

Lily found herself swept into the tide of Slughorn’s movement, James Potter propelled along beside her. They made their way out of the alcove and back into the flowery nightmare of the party, shortly, they arrived beside the wizard with the salt-and-pepper beard Lily had almost approached earlier. 

He had been joined by a severe-looking witch with hair as pale as the ghosts who roamed the castle. Prosper Snyde, unfortunately, looking just as comfortable as he had earlier beside them. 

“Caius, Fulvia!” Slughorn said, shaking Mr Evanders hand vigorously and kissing Mrs Evander on the cheek. “Might I introduce two of my most accomplished students.” 

Lily only half-listened as Slughorn launched into an explanation of her and James’ deeds of note - a long list for Lily, which included prefect, head of the potions club and Gobstones Champion and a rather shorter list for James once you discounted everything that had earned him a detention. James’ list, of course, included a surname the Evanders had inevitably heard before. Something Lily could never hope to possess. 

Lily tried to force herself to pay attention as Mr Evander regaled them all with a story about the goings-on at the Quidditch club he evidently owned.She smiled and laughed when the moment seemed to call for it, but inside her heart was sinking into her stomach as she wasted another minute listening to pointless nonsense from a man who had no interest in her capabilities and would never be able to give her what she wanted. 

Beside her, she was surprised to see, Potter did not look any more interested in Evander’s Quidditch trivia than Lily did. His eyes had glazed over and he was taking increasingly frequent sips from the glass of firewhiskey he had somehow managed to procure during their walk from the fireplace. 

Professor Slughorn’s hand came to rest lightly on Lily’s shoulder, pulling her attention away from Potter and back to the conversation at hand.. “...Over there. I’ll leave you all to become better acquainted.” Before she could comprehend what she had missed, Slughorn withdrew, clearly intent on catching up with another one of his neverending list of connections. 

His absence left a silence that Mrs Evander was clearly desperate to fill. She turned to Lily, “Evans was it? Any relation to -” 

“She’s not a relation to anyone,” Snyde cut in, a sneer on his face. 

Lily’s chest tightened painfully. She wondered if Snyde had any idea how close he was to the truth. The very choice to stand in a room such as this has required to leave her family behind, in ways she hadn’t truly been able to comprehend until recently. 

“She wasn’t asking you, Snyde,” James snapped, a hard look on his face. His hand tightened on his now-empty glass until his knuckles turned a stark white. 

“My parents are Muggles,” Lily said, willing her voice not to shake. 

“Oh,” Mr Evander mumbled. His nose wrinkled momentarily before his expression became perfectly blank. “How… interesting.” 

Lily was overcome by the sudden urge to run but  remained rooted to the spot. She jutted her chin out, holding her head high and ignoring the searing mixture of shame and fury burning within her. 

“It is interesting, isn’t it?” James said, his voice tinged with steel. “Professor Newell was telling me about a little machine they carry around in their pockets that does all their adding up for them. Sounds like a dream to me.” 

“A calculator,” Lily mumbled, cheering slightly at the obvious awe in James’ voice.

“Fascinating,” Mrs Evander said dryly. 

“It rather proves what we all suspected, doesn’t it?” Snyde said, his pompous smile robbing Lily of any good feeling James had caused in an instant. “That the Muggles are too stupid to do anything for themselves.” 

Mrs Evander laughed nervously. Mr Evander took a long sip of his drink. Lily’s hands began to shake, blood rushed loudly through her ears. She should have known, no one was going to defend -

“I don’t know,” said James. His voice was perfectly placid, though his eyes sparked with a fire Lily had never seen in them before. “I don’t see any Muggles trapped in a conversation with you, Snyde, obviously they’re smart enough to avoid anything that unpleasant.” 

Snyde’s smug smile fell from his face. His eyes narrowed to dangerous slits as they darted between Lily and James. “Everyone knows your family’s odd, Potter, but I didn’t think you’d lower yourself to a Mudblood.” 

Lily had no time to register the sting Snyde’s comment caused her, or the uncomfortable look shared between Mr and Mrs Evander in the split second before James withdrew his wand and pointed it directly at Snyde’s face. 

“Now really,” Mrs Evander said. Evidently, the thought of James cursing Snyde and causing a scene was more distasteful to her than the treatment Lily had endured from Snyde and she had finally been compelled to speak. 

James ignored her. His arm was impeccably steady and his wand remained inches from the tip of Snyde’s nose. “Apologise,” he hissed. 

Lily’s skin began to crawl. Without turning to look she knew the eyes of those nearest them were turning to stare. A scene might be an embarrassment Mrs Evander wished to avoid, but for Lily it would be a costly mistake that she simply could not suffer. 

She moved swiftly, grabbing James' wrist without wasting a moment. He was strong but he yielded to her touch, lowering his wand in an instant. His piercing glare, however, was still fixed on Snyde. 

“Well, meeting you was exactly as pleasant as I'd expected. We must be going,” Lily said, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she looked over her shoulder and gave the Evanders a tight smile. 

She could feel her composure beginning to crack. The weight of everything seemed to settle on her shoulders. Without thinking she began to hurry away from the crowd of party-goers, her feet carrying her back towards the alcove and the fireplace with her hand still clutched around James Potter’s wrist. 

He hurried to keep up with Lily, allowing her to drag him away. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” she said through gritted teeth, feeling not fine at all. 

“Do you want to get out of here?” James offered. “I could walk you back to Gryffindor Tower?” 

“I can’t leave now.” 

“Why not? You wanted to leave five minutes ago?” 

“That was before,” Lily said as they reached the fireplace. She let go of James’ wrist and leant against the wall of the alcove, hoping Snyde couldn’t see her as she closed her eyes and took five deep, steady breaths.  

She opened her eyes to find James leaning against the unlit fireplace, studying her intently. Behind him, the white sand in Slughorn’s hourglass glittered as it poured downwards in a steady stream. Lily felt an odd sense of longing, a desperate desire to truly be capable of manipulating time. 

“Are you sure you don’t want to go?” James asked again. 

“No,” Lily said firmly. “I can’t.” 

“I’ll walk you out,” James offered, apparently deciding Lily’s refusal was based on fear. “Snyde’s a git but I could definitely take him in a duel-” 

“No,” Lily repeated. “If I go now, he’ll think he’s got to me.” 

James studied her face again. “Hasn’t he?” 

“No. Yes. A bit,” Lily admitted grudgingly. 

A house-elf bearing a heavy, silver tray passed by them and James plucked two glasses off it. He handed Lily one and she took a long drink, savouring the cleansing, burning sensation of firewhiskey in her throat. 

“Are you feeling okay, Evans?” James asked as she lowered her half-empty glass. “You’ve been seeming a bit off all week.”

“Have I?” 

“Yeah, you didn’t come to dinner last night. Or the night before.” 

Lily adopted a sardonic smile. “Watching me, were you?” 

Her attempts at deflection failed immediately, James did not rise to her bait. “I’ve not seen you hanging around with Snivellus recently either -” 

“It’s nothing to do with him.” Lily snapped, her voice dripping with acid even as she knew she was lying. 

“It is something then?” James asked, looking not the least perturbed by Lily’s tone. If anything, he looked rather pleased with himself; a small smile crept at the corners of his lips and one finger ran lazily around the rim of his firewhiskey glass. 

She didn’t know what made her speak. Perhaps it was the mention of Sev, who she hadn’t said a word to in months. Maybe, it was Snyde calling her a Mudblood and confirming that even showing up at this ridiculous party had been a foolish waste of time. Or quite possibly, it was simply that Lily had had no one to properly talk to since she’d received Petunia’s letter and James just happened to be the unlucky person for whom the floodgates were opening. 

“My sister asked me not to come home for the holidays.” 

James’ triumphant smile vanished in an instant. “She what? Why?” 

“She wrote to me a few days ago. Apparently, everyone at home is getting on just fine without me and it’d be better if I didn’t disrupt them with my ‘abnormality.” 

James seemed lost for words. His eyes roved Lily’s face as though searching for an abnormality he had been previously unaware of. 

“Well, stay here then,” he said finally. Clearly satisfied he had just solved all of Lily’s problems with a single sentence. 

Lily laughed but there was no humour in it. She felt a sting behind her eyes and blinked furiously before any tears could fall. She waved vaguely at the petal-covered crowd behind her and the unpleasant truth that had been plaguing her every thought for the past two days tumbled from her lips, “no one wants me here either.” 

“Of course they do!” James argued without hesitation. 

Lily simply shook her head, unable to get any words past the tightness that had begun to build in her throat. She knew the truth and there was nothing James Potter could say to change it. Petunia and Severus, the two people who knew Lily better than anyone in the world, thought she was worthless. There was only one choice remaining to her; would she rather be the Mudblood or the freak? 

“Your sister is the girl who comes to Kings Cross with you at the start of term?” James asked. “The one who always looks like someone’s set a dung bomb off right under her nose?” 

Lily nodded, unable to find any motivation to defend Petunia at the current moment.  

“So your uptight sister and a dick like Snyde don’t like you?” James shrugged. “Seems like you’re doing something right to me.” 

“Maybe,” Lily said, determined not to allow James to cheer her up when she was perfectly content to wallow in self-pity. 

James brightened suddenly, his expression the same one he usually got in Transfiguration when he finally mastered a new spell. She watched as he withdrew something from the inside pocket of his dress robes and turned towards the mantelpiece to snatch an ostentatious hippogriff feather quill from its inkpot. 

“This is my address,” he said, using the wall to lean on as he scribbled something on a bright purple piece of parchment. “Sounds like you’re in for a miserable Easter and I always get bored at home.” 

He thrust the piece of parchment towards her and Lily realised it was in actual fact a chocolate frog card upon which James had managed to squeeze an address in Godric’s Hollow between the edge of and the text.

“I don’t know if you have an owl, but I’m sure the Muggle postman will find us.” 

"You want me to write to you?" Lily asked, confused. 

"Er, yeah," James replied, as though it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Over Easter. And I'll write back, I can't leave you wallowing all alone, can I?" 

"You don't have to do that," she forced herself to say, hating how thin and pathetic her voice sounded. 

"I want to," James said, his voice dripping with sincerity. "You'll be doing me a favour, if anything. I need something to do other than gorging myself on chocolate. Last year, I was in serious danger of my broom not being able to lift me after Easter." 

Lily smiled despite her commitment not to. "Well, I can't let you risk our chances at the Quidditch Cup." 

"I'm sorry to have to burden you with such a responsibility," James sighed. "But as a Prefect it's your duty to keep me on the straight and narrow." 

Lily nodded seriously. For once, she ignored the urge to point out that no one had ever been successful at keeping James in line. “It’s a cross I’m willing to bear.” 

James looked at her, his eyes seemed to penetrate the walls she had built around herself. Lily looked down, suddenly unable to stand the intensity of his gaze. 

"Do you always carry this with you?" She asked quickly, studying the chocolate frog card. Godric Gryffindor's noble expression stared back at her. It seemed an odd thing to have in the pocket of one's dress robes. 

"Yeah," James said, reaching up and ruffling his hair so that it stood up at odd angles. "My dad gave it to me just before I got on the train in first year - not that I was scared," he added quickly. Lily suspected he could think of no worse insult. 

"And you've kept it with you all this time?"

James fiddled with his hair again. "I suppose it's like a good luck charm." Lily noticed a hint of a blush creep across his cheeks. 

"You can't give it to me," she said, attempting to hand it back to him. 

James refused the gesture. "I didn't have anything else to write on. Just send it back with your first letter.” 

Lily hesitated. She looked at the card again and was surprised to find the little image of Gryffindor oddly comforting. Carefully, she tucked it into her pocket. 

James grinned at her. "Now can we get out of here?" He asked. "I only popped in to see my dad, I hate these things." 

Somewhat surprised, Lily looked out at the crowd past the alcove. She had forgotten there was anyone else there. 

"I'll transfigure Snyde's ears into turnips on the way past," James said cajolingly. 

Lily made a noise halfway between a laugh and an exasperated sigh. James attempted to hide his smile by turning to replace the quill back into its inkwell.   

Lily's eyes were drawn to a faint glimmer just to the left of the quill on the fireplace, where Slughorn's hourglass stood. The sand no longer flowed between the two halves, but remained perfectly still, suspended in mid-air. 

[knchins]

Can you plz do prompt #29 (fluff) and prompt #20 with gojo and fem reader with fluffy ending?

of course! I got a little carried away because I love writing for Gojo so much lol. I hope you enjoy it!

Pairing: Gojo x Reader

TW: None

Reader Type: Female

It had been months now since he had left. Your best friend in the entire world had abandoned the teachings of jujutsu sorcery and decided to become a curse user. You had known Geto Suguru since you were a young girl and while your relationship had always been platonic it still hurt so much to see him turn his back on all his beliefs.

You sighed, staring out the window to watch the rainfall on the foliage outside. Gojo had been distant as well, though the two of you often butted heads over trivial things. His personality was sometimes too big for the room you were in and it could be suffocating. Even so, he was obviously hurting too. He couldn’t stop his best friend either.

There was a knock on your dorm room door and you got up to open it. Outside Gojo was standing, drenched from the storm outside. In one hand was a beaten-up bouquet of your favorite flowers. The petals drooped from the heavy raindrops that had fallen onto them. His other hand was holding a simple box of chocolates from a local chocolatier. While he didn’t think they were anything incredibly special, to you it was obvious that he had put in some effort to pick out something you’d like.

“Are those for me?” You asked softly as you let him step inside. He kicked off his shoes and you grabbed him a towel. He flashed you a sad smile, wishing that he had been able to at least save the flowers. Instead of answering he just nodded.

“But why?” You ask, feeling your heart starting to beat loudly in your chest. No one had ever gotten you flowers before except for Geto on your birthday.

“I just want to see you happy.” He said, sounding a bit out of character. It wasn’t like him to be serious and soft, though you had witnessed it a few times. “You’ve been so sad since…” He didn’t have to finish his sentence. You knew exactly what he meant.

“I don’t understand…” You mumbled, taking the flowers from him and smelling them despite their rugged appearance. They still brought a small smile to your face as you took in the fresh scent.

“Because I love you.” He said, dropping the bomb that he’d held close to his heart since you started school together. He always knew your dating would complicate your relationship with Geto. If things went bad then he’d be stuck in the middle. With him not being around, there seemed to be no reason to hold back anymore. “I’ve always loved you.”

You accidentally dropped the flowers in shock, happy tears springing to your eyes. You had always had a crush on Gojo, but what girl didn’t? Never in a million years did you think he’d feel the same.

He looked caught off guard by your reaction, embarrassment making you fidget. “I love you too.” You murmured and a second later you felt his lips on yours.

Check out my Death to my Youth Event where Tokyo Rev and JJK requests are open until Dec. 24th! Link is on my pinned navigation post!

[imaginativeamateur]

Hi! Congrats on 500 followers! I absolutely love your blog, and I'm so happy to see it grow and achieve new milestones!

I would love to make a visit to Ramen Ichiraku :)

Table 1, 1 bowl of Shoyu ramen with Chashu and Wonton, with some Green Tea, please!

Arigatou gozaimasu!

[Kakashi Hatake X Reader] Let the Rain Kiss You

|500 Followers Event|

Order: Table 1: Shoyu Ramen with Chashu and Wonton, Green tea

Pairing: Kakashi Hatake x fem!Reader

Note: Hey!! Thanks for placing an order! This one is a bit different from the style that I've been writing in, I wanted to try something different :D So definitely let me know what you think! Without further ado, please enjoy your ramen!

Mid-summer rains were for flowers to bathe their shying petals in serenity.

Mid-summer rains were for memories to drop by and once again relive…

You were having an uneventful day at the bookstore where you were landing a part-time job at. It was summer and dewy raindrops pounded at the front steps melodically. Your bookstore was located in the outskirts of the village, quite far from where the downtown hustle was, making it even more solemn on days like this. The sky started to pour at four and it was six by then with customers so few that you could recall which sections they stopped by without hesitation.

One more hour until closing time and you found yourself bending languidly across the desk, eyes gazing over the green grass just outside the glass window. The ticking of the clock and dulcet songs playing in the background brought reminiscence to you as you watched the clear droplets hitting the leaves then gliding smoothly against the flourishing surface. You remembered the first time you came here and immediately fell in love with the tranquility the place possessed, from the wooden shelves packed with paperbacks to the windows that would glow misty every time it rained—it was relict yet refreshing in a mesmerizing way.

Your thoughts were disconnected when faint footsteps approached the entrance. A silver-haired man calmly shrugged off his drenched flak jacket and got inside the store. The droplets of water fell from the tip of his hair and trailed the outline of his sharp jaw. One of his eyes was covered with a forehead protector—the Konohagakure symbol shining brighter with a layer of water atop. Though you were unfamiliar with Konoha’s Shinobi and never went outside of your village for the entirety of your lifetime, you were able to detect a powerful aura emanating from the man.

You stood up from your seat abruptly to welcome the newly arrived customer with a bright smile, “Hello, how may I help you?”

He scanned the whole storey and put his hands into his pant pockets, seeming dejected. “I don’t think what I need to find is here.”

“May I know what books you're looking for?”

He thought for a moment and looked around once again before clearing his throat, “… Some poetry would be fine.”

You were puzzled. Your store was full of poetic compositions, from hundred-year-old ones to the most recently published ones, but he just said what he was finding was not here. Albeit confused, you made your way around the desk and walked closer to him. Only then did you realize that he was dripping wet.

You wearily offered, “I think it’s best if you can come in and dry yourself a little.”

He nodded and smiled humbly, “That’s very kind of you.”

-----

In fact, Kakashi was on a journey for his mission when it rained and he could not find a roof to seek asylum—none besides a lone storey that stood out at the border of the forest, not too far from the center, but distant enough to preserve its own peace and quiet. When he came closer, his hope faltered when the place turned out to be a bookstore, not an inn. But the girl was benign enough to offer him some hospitality. Though he noticed that she was cautious of him, she still guided him through the hall and into a larger room, surrounded by old bookcases with a mystic scent of forgotten beauty.

“Please wait here if you don’t mind,” she whispered, “I’ll go get you a towel.”

Kakashi settled himself on a bench, resting his head against the side of one of the shelves when she stepped out of the room. He could see the last weakling rays of the day shining through the glass windows, casting a warming yellow tone on the ancient volumes neatly placed on the bookcases, pleasant to the eyes. His thoughts slipped at the slight cracks of her footsteps approaching and the gust of wind that billowed into the room once she opened the door.

She carefully handed him a plain white towel, her gaze never left the floor in the process. The space was accommodated with comfortable silence and the rhythmic raindrops being the only sounds making their way through the little creak of the partially agape glass panes. Kakashi dried his damped hair with the towel, inhaling the subtly sweetness from the soft fabric, the furrow of his brows unconsciously loosened themselves.

The last exquisite glimmers finally dimmed, leaving the warm lamplight draping the room with pleasant hues of amber. She had long disappeared behind the shelves, swiftly strolling along rows of different compositions, looking for what he—an unexpected, special customer—asked for. Kakashi did not notice the moment his visible eye started trailing her petite figure across the room, following her lithe steps as she turned side to side in her search. He could not help but wonder the peculiar thoughts that quickly entrenched his mind—Kakashi suddenly felt oddly sedate.

-----

You came back with five books of different thicknesses and covers in your arms, sweats glimmering on your forehead from the quite strenuous expedition. You placed the books down one by one while explaining with faint pride, “I didn’t know what you like specifically, so I picked out five different styles for you to choose.”

You looked up with glinting orbs but your face immediately flushed a deep shade of pink when you saw his still slightly wet top glued to his defined frame, outlining the muscles underneath the thin layer of black fabric. Your eyes drifted outside the large window, pretending to admire the night rain, clearing your throat in embarrassment. He seemed to have noticed your flustered state, a low chuckle vibrated in his chest as he leaned forward to draw in one of your picks. The sudden closure of the distance between your body and his made you flinch, instantaneously stepping back, and missing your footing carelessly.

His hand flung out of instinct, grasping tightly around your wrist, pulling you back from landing on the hard wooden floor. Yet, with the strong force that he was used to exerting in his training, your dainty figure was forced into his bosom in a mere second, too fast for you to register everything. When you finally realized that your palms flattened themselves against his broad chest to cushion the impact and the beating of his heart was right under them, you gasped in surprise.

-----

Kakashi peered down at her with his only visible eye, sophisticated gaze scanning her body for any injuries. Seeing that she was still staring at him in shock, her hands right on his chest, he felt another surge of warmth flowing through his heart, leaving his mind in a daze. Kakashi gave her an assuring grin, and she snapped back into reality, hastily standing up from his lap, looking at him timidly as she scooted farther away. He felt empty when she escaped from his embrace. The cold air surrounded Kakashi almost instantly after she got up made him a tad unsatisfied.

He reached forward again for the leather-cover book, flipping through the first few pages with elegance. She stood there and watched silently, not daring to make a single noise. Though his eye was fixed on the pages, his focus was on the figure standing at the other side of the table that was rubbing her hands together out of nervousness.

“I like this one,” he blurted, trying to assuage the invisible tension.

Her eyes lit up and the familiar smile returned to her lips, making Kakashi smile too.

“This one is an old publication,” she explained as she led him back, “I remember seeing this one around when I was four or five.”

He took the paperback with one hand, the other grabbing the green flak jacket hanging from the hook, “It’s probably a great one for sure.”

Kakashi left when the rain stopped, with poetry in his hand and her smile in his heart. When he was finally able to find an inn and settled in for the night, he held the book once again in his hands, smoothing the cover with adoration. The title graced in silvery read, “Let the Rain Kiss You.”

-----------------

Taglist: @dai-tsukki-desu @thenightfallingstar @animepickle7 @simping-master-69 @tirzamisu @rinnegankakashi @the-tiniest-one @greenshirtimagines @theacevampire

[gryffindors-weasley]

Where We Belong

Draco Malfoy x Reader

Summary: Amongst all the lavish luxuries at his parents estate, there’s one place Draco feels he truly belongs.

Word Count: 2.1k

Warnings: mentions of the war, brief mentions of alcohol, slight angst, fluff, kissing

The ballroom was decorated floor to ceiling in only the most expensive of luxuries, down to the very goblet in Draco’s hand, encrusted with crystals amongst pure gold. Malfoy events were never modest in the slightest, anything borderline simple would never suffice. A pianist sat in the far corner, though the instrument’s melody had traveled across the entirety of the grand room. He should know, he’s spent years dancing his fingers over the sleek ivory keys when his father wasn’t around to scold him for it. 

Dozens of conversations mingled in the space, ones he could only assume didn’t hold any true meaning. They were his parents acquaintances after all, they never had much more to talk about other than their estates and business dealings. He felt rather grateful he hadn’t been subjected to talk about such things, for he’d gone a different way with his life. One that was better suited for him. He doesn’t feel as though they’d be interested in the subject of healing sick and injured people with magic; if his father frowned upon his career choice surely they would too. But that wasn’t of importance to him now, not really, he had better things to concern himself with.

Perhaps the most enamoring part of this evening was you. Well, it was most definitely you. Granted, he’d wished that you weren’t as much of a socialite for just this evening, because he’d much rather be with you than stand along the same gray wall sipping his wine. He’d been doing that all night but still he settled for admiring you nonetheless, he could never tire of that.

You were singlehandedly the best thing to happen to him and he’d say that with absolute certainty. You knew him when he was a boy who made all the wrong choices, and you know him now as a man trying to make better of them as best he can. He felt he had many flaws for you to overlook, all of which you did in fact set aside because you couldn’t hold him to his mistakes forever. You’ve shown him love when he had none, and for that he was forever grateful.

You had been weaving in and out of clusters of forest green dresses and pristine black suits, attempting to hold a conversation as best you could. It was proving to be rather difficult because you didn’t revel in overly expensive mansions and finely manicured gardens; you reveled in your cozy cottage with imperfectly perfect flowerbeds and old wooden shelves crammed with worn books. So, you felt it best to keep it moving throughout the room in hopes someone would say something of interest. With the war having been concluded, there was no looming threat over your head to hide your relationship with the Malfoy heir, but a small part of you had still wanted be on good standing with everyone. However, it seemed as though your efforts may have been futile the more you spoke.

Narcissa adored you, and that was good enough for you.

Your eyes eventually landed on Draco’s in your periodic scan around the large room, a soft smile tugging at your lips as you sigh. You were tired of being social, you had done more than your fair share for the evening. He’d been eying you ever since you left his arms just short of an hour ago, it wasn’t hard to notice after all. After being discreet in his admiring all these years, he no longer cared about being obvious.

“Here I thought you’d abandoned me, love,” Draco says, feigning hurt as you take the goblet from his hand and set it down on a nearby table.

“Now why would I do that?” 

A smile was quick to grace his lips as he looked down at you, a chunk of his icy hair dipping into his eyes at the action. His mother had scolded him for ignoring her wishes on cutting his hair for this event, even just a trim or to simply slick it back, but he couldn’t bring himself to care. You liked it like that anyways.

“You look beautiful, you know,” he murmurs in your ear, dropping a sweet kiss just below it. A familiar heat began to burn in your cheeks as his lips ghost over your skin.

“I believe you’ve told me that quite a few times,” you smile, a laugh leaving your lips when he nipped the lobe of your ear in a playful response to your teasing. You quieted when it drew a few stares that were just as quickly averted.

“I mean it,” he sighs, his hands squeezing yours.

A deeper blush stains your cheeks and you will yourself to look away from him momentarily, the bout of jovial laughter ringing through the room giving the perfect excuse to do just that. Draco was growing tired of the bustling atmosphere, though he supposes he had been even since the two of you had arrived at the Manor. Elegant parties were no longer something he particularly enjoyed, only tolerable in small doses. He was tired of sharing your attention; he’d wanted you all to himself and didn’t find it in him to care if he was being selfish.

You turned back to him, the fondness of his gaze still very much there and you can’t help but lean on your toes and kiss him softly. The tender action seemed to have solidified his ideas, ones he’d pondered the entirety of the night and he found himself nodding towards the double doors without second thought. A smile tugs at the corners of your mouth in a wordless agreement, and his hand is quick to envelop yours fully as he gives the room one final glance before tugging you along.

The halls were nearly vacant as you hurried through them with a practiced ease, his hand never leaving yours. Smiles were fought to be contained as you passed by a few staggered guests, sharing an adoring gaze as he tightened his grip on your hand. The only sounds to be heard were the giddy laughter leaving your lips, mingled with the fading commotion of the crowded ballroom and of course the clicking of your heels. The two of you disappeared around a corner, apparating to the only place you’d wanted to be that night, home.

—

The change of scenery was much needed, and very contrasting at that, your home far warmer and welcoming than the Manor could ever be. The scent of cinnamon and sugar was immediate upon walking through the door, a warm glow of miscellaneous lamps illuminating every room. Every shadow seemed far less mysterious and cold, the feeling of prying eyes within them no longer present. It was refreshingly quiet save for the pattering of the rain outside and the ticking of a few clocks, it was serene and it was home. No bad memories were housed here, and hostility was not welcome if you could help it. There had been enough sorrow and guilt in Draco’s not-so-distant past to last a lifetime or two, and he didn’t want it to tarnish your home. It was peaceful and it was shared with the love of your life.

“Are you ready, darling?” Draco calls out from the bottom of the stairs.

You appear at the very top with a smile on your face, Draco’s soon to follow as you made your way down the creaky wooden steps to him. It was tradition; after ever ball, every party, every fancy dinner at his parents estate—you would always come home to enjoy a night alone, away from elegant luxury, and away from the need to be proper. For an event like this in particular, it was always customary to share a dance.

Draco’s pristine black suit was discarded in favor of his plaid pajama pants, his hair a ruffled mess of platinum from apparating in the rain. Your silky gray dress had since been abandoned in a crumpled pile on the bedroom floor, his old quidditch sweater hanging comfortably from your shoulders in heaps of tattered deep green yarn. He hadn’t worn the thing since sixth year, but you had always taken a liking to it so he couldn’t bring himself to get rid of it.

“I’d argue that you look even more handsome right now,” you state.

“And here I thought you liked my signature suit,” he scoffs in faux offense as you join him at the bottom of the stairs, a bright smile on your lips.

It was true, he was always dashing in his rather monochromatic suit, it was impossible for him not to be. But his current attire was much more preferred, he looked much more comfortable. Not so rough around the edges and intimidating, not that you ever considered him to be. He was rather soft under all those layers of defense and angered sorrow even if he didn’t want to admit it.

He offers you his hand in a playfully mocking attempt to be proper, leading you to the living room. It was lit with just about every single candle he could find, the varying scents not necessary mingling very well with one another but the effort was enough to outshine it. The fireplace melted away the nagging chill of the rainy evening, and a single flower was held in your direction. It’s ruffled pink petals dripped with raindrops when you take it, and you laugh softly at the sweetness of the gesture.

“Have you always been so romantic?” You jest, his eyes narrowing at you in a lighthearted glare as you smell the lingering floral smell.

“Only for you, my love,” he says with a soft smile, tugging you close. “Not a word of it to anyone else.”

You laugh at the words quietly spoken against your lips, though you’re quickly cut short when his own meld with yours, his hand settling on your flushed cheek tenderly. His soft sigh tickles against your skin and you couldn’t help the giggle it had elicited, the flower in your hand now fluttering to the floor as you wrap your arms around his neck. He continued his affections across your cheek and over your jaw, your smile never faltering. 

“Is something funny, darling?” 

Amusement laces his tone as his words muffle against your skin, the feeling sending a shiver up your spine and an eruption of butterflies in your stomach. Your breath hitched in your throat at the single kiss pressed there. He knew that very fact quite well, taking great joy in the effect of such a simple action.

“Yes, actually, there is,” you state matter-of-factly, attempting to stave off how flustered you were becoming.

He looks up to meet your gaze, his brow raising as the corner of his mouth quirks up. “Do enlighten me.”

“I believe the tradition is to dance with me, Draco, not kiss me,” you laugh softly.

His hand drops from your cheek and joins his other around your waist, pulling you impossibly closer.

“This is the first moment I’ve got you all to myself, pardon me if I want to kiss you all night,” he quips, his smile fond as he looks at you. “Besides, traditions don’t always have to be set in stone, do they?”

You smile and he kisses you before you can argue his reasoning, though you don’t think you can find a plausible counter for it with the way his breath mingles with yours in the close proximity. He breaks from you too soon with another quick kiss, and you take the opportunity to rest your head on his shoulder. 

No music was needed as you swayed about the cozy living room, the candlelight flickering against the sage-colored walls. No music was ever needed when you found yourselves in your own little world as you so often do. A moment alone to dance with you in the privacy of your own home, in the comfort of your pajamas at that, was far better than some elaborate ballroom in ridiculously expensive clothing. It will always be better, for your company would always be enough for Draco no matter the circumstance.

A smile graces his lips as his cheek rests atop your head, and the platinum hair that poked in his eyes and tickled his nose was only a minor inconvenience not worthy of interrupting moment like this. He still wonders how he’d gotten so lucky as to steal your affections, and not a single day goes by where he doesn’t feel fortunate for it. You were wonderful, you were warm, you were radiant, and you were his.

He’d dance a thousand dances with you in this very living room, because this was where the two of you belong.

—

Tags: @theweasleysredhair @lunalovecroft @amourtentiaa @hahee154hq

[shxyo-sho]

pretty petals, pretty pictures

Pairing: kiyoko shimizu x gn!reader

Genre: fluff, mutual pining

Warnings | wc: none, 590+

Summary: If you could describe your best friend, Kiyoko, in one word; what would it be? I would pick the word, flawless.

A/n: @missmorosis this is my submission to your 400 follower event<33 I chose a dialogue prompt and just ran with it LMAO- I hope you all enjoy!!

|| hq m.list ||

Kiyoko was perfect in every way possible, dare you say; flawless.

It didn’t surprise you when people flirted with her, gawked at her from afar, or even confessed their undying love for the girl. Could you blame them?

She’s the most gorgeous person you’ve ever laid your eyes upon, and her personality only made her that much more attractive. You had feelings for her, there was no point in denying it anymore and being her best friend made it horribly difficult to hide.

You and Kiyoko sat on a park bench in silence. A cherry blossom tree stood tall beside the both you, branches hanging over your heads. The occasional flower falling from its stem and floating aimlessly in the wind, landing beside your feet.

Small chirps could be heard from above as a flock of birds flew by. The girl next to you had a small smile adorning her face as she watched the kids run around. Childrens laughter filled the quiet park and echoed through the empty streets. It was serene and peaceful.

You silently hoped you could stay like this forever, in the company of the girl of your dreams.

Sneaking a glance her way you saw her in all her glory. Beautiful blue locks swaying in the light breeze, face relaxed and covered in golden hues from the sunset. Glasses shining in the sunlight making her eyes look brighter than usual. Glossed lips turned upward in a genuine smile.

Oh god, she was beautiful.

Kiyoko turned her head toward you, eyes meeting for a second before you turned away, embarrassed.

“Are you alright? You seem to be sweating.”

Your eyes widened. Of course, she caught you flustered. “I’m fine Shimizu. Don’t worry about me.”

She hummed in understanding. A small sigh left your lips, relieved she didn’t push the issue any further.

Another couple of minutes passed in a comfortable silence before it was interrupted. A strong gust of wind blew through the park and shook every tree in sight. Branches swayed violently with the harsh breeze, flower petals now falling down like raindrops.

The pretty flowers dropped to the ground; everything was suddenly covered in a shade of light pink foliage. You felt the small plants hit the top of your head and watched as they fell into your lap.

Turning your head, you were met with beautifully blue eyes. Now it was her turn to look away, embarrassed that she was caught staring at you.

How could she not?

You looked ethereal, flowers getting caught in your clothes, sunlight shining off of your face, lips forming a toothy grin.

Oh god, you were lovely.

Seeing Kiyoko being engulfed by fallen flowers gave you an idea. Standing up you reached for your phone, quickly opening it.

Kiyoko raised an eyebrow at you, “Are we leaving already?” She asks while also standing up, lose petals falling off of her lap and onto the floor.

“Wait. Stand right there, I want to take a picture of you.” You said putting a hand out to stop her movements.

“Only if it’s alright with you of course,” you say making sure she was okay with having her photo taken.

“Um- Yeah it’s fine with me.”

Nodding your head, you pointed the camera at her. Hair blowing in wind, smile blinding, eyes shining, face glowing, she looked gorgeous.

Per usual.

Snapping a series of photos, you can’t help but smile thinking about your ever-growing feelings for the beauty standing in front of you.

She really is flawless, isn’t she?

shxyo-sho © 2021 | all content and its rights belong to me. please do not modify or repost on any other websites.

[enchanted-lightning-aes]

The Clear Reappearance

A/N: hmm, a tale about spring and how it brings happiness to those around it. I apologize to those, who have allergies during this season. Descriptive prose of nature at spring. I liked writing this.^^

Word Count: 550

TW: None

***

With a different day beginning after a rain, remnants of raindrops scattered through a garden. A pale patch of light cascaded on a grassy field, where snow melted from a change in weather. Leaves of trees grow, attaching to thin branches.

The sun got up with a renewed energy, it's golden gleam muted from a far distance. Clouds gathered across the clear blue sky, crystalizing into view. It replaced a frigid chill of winter, turning wind to be mellow.

Waterfall flowed down to a creek, trickling over an edge of bedrocks. It rushed down, droplets pattering and rippling on a stream of water. Trees and plants change to be greener, going back to their true colors. Sunlight thickened their roots, stems, branches, and leaves. Even those florescence trees, flowers appeared between fruits and leaves.

Some fell out, getting drifted along in wind.

It gradually caused signs of winter to fade.

A brisk breeze swept by trees, rustling leaves. A damp scent left by rain awakened creatures. Some emerged from their homes, stumbling into nature. A grove of trees surrounded different paths, enclosing them like they were hidden. The scent wafted into the air, filling the garden with a fresh state.

A dewy drop of water landed over a large leaf, crashing onto a puddle. A fox ran over it, carrying itself with boundless energy.

Light of sun showers soaked trees, illuminating each plant filling it. The pliant soil dried, turning into a solid form. Plants remain steady to the ground, beginning to sprout with larger leaves.

Squirrels chattered upon gathering nuts, their movements creaking branches. They still while grasping their food carefully.

Birds were singing while soaring above the sky, their tunes bright. They flutter their wings, exploring their surroundings. Beside a lake, some of them splashed water to creature puddles on the grass.

A rabbit peak from a small burrow, stepping out to warmth. It sniffs around, finding a daffodil. It hopped on the grass, bouncing with a sense of spark.

Beneath an oak tree's shade, a dear sat down as it sought for shelter. It rested it's chin on it's hind arms, slowly closes it's eyes. It fell into slumber in a cozy place to rest.

Each critter frolicked with rapture, having more chances of adventures. They could search for food and places to stay in, meeting with fellow friends.

On secluded flowerbeds, a floral fragrance drifted in the air. It awakened a line of flowers up after a long rest.

Little drizzles of water seeped on their roots.

Flowers fell into deep blossom once more, giving a lovely scent with a dainty intensity. They filled up a part of the garden, sprawling over the grass. Dwelling on shrubs and bushes. Petals of roses, sunflowers, daffodils, and violets fluttered with a calm breeze drifting by them. They grew with a radiance resting on them.

Most plants began following a warmth bestowed by light. They swayed, rejoicing for finding comfort in a warm brilliance. With nourishment provided by rain, they could proceed to grow.

When spring approached, there would be a riveting revival of nature. Creatures in the garden celebrated the event in their own ways. For it brought clearer skies, brighter days, and starry nights.

With flowers in bloom and nature fallen into spring's presence, the garden thrived.

***

[lephamquynhnhu]

Panacea

Chapter 2: Storm before the Blushing Morn

Dan Feng x Fem!Reader

WARNINGS/ TAGS: The reader has a default name, OOC, mentioned of blood. (This is a work of fanfiction, events are not aligned or relevant to the original work)

Word count: ~2k

Summary: He met you on a drizzling day when hydrangea fully bloomed on its field. Amidst the sea of mild pastel petals, Dan Feng never thought the flowery domain that intertwined your fate was the precise thing withered with you. They said he was a dragon, a hero, a sinner, but never a person with love, hatred, sorrow, or joy like everyone else in this world. However, it was a demi-truth. He committed the cardinal sin because of you.

Note: Do you like...pain?

He revisited on a sprinkle day, his signature ambergris aroma mixed with the freshness of humid forest note. You did not know why, but the High Elder seemed to be into rainy days because every time he came, water definitely showered outside. It has been weeks since you met him for the first time, and thanks to the frequency of his visits, you learn that the nonchalant Imbibitor Lunae gradually displays the other side. Although Dan Feng never clearly shows his emotion, you can tell his mood through the draconic tail. When he feels happy, his tail swings side to side and stands still as its owner is interested in or concentrates on whatever your information. In addition to your surprise, he sometimes even punchlines on your venting stories.  

Under the Mulan's foliage, you slowly gaze at the kaleidoscope sky after rain. A mid-summer breeze that carries the scent of white flowers softly blows through, driving the ripples to gleam on the water's surface. 

Immersing in your haze, you forget what was going to do until the Long Scion gives out his curiousness about the bush of Datura Metel in a corner garden. 

"I have studied an organic pesticide which extracts from their active agents." - The elegant smell of lotus still glistens in the morning dew perfumes in your lungs when nudging into them. Suddenly, you shove the flower cart into his arms and tell him to wait for you at a nearby wooden bench. Dan Feng thinks eternal Spring never leaves this sunlit Shangri-La as he wipes the Mulan's petals out of the seat because the flora seems to blossom in four seasons. 

While idly watching Koi fish under silky leafages, the High Elder does not notice you snicker behind. A forgotten raindrop stagnates on the lotus leaf trail like a lost pearl, arousing the quiet pond like his emerald orbs rising in astonishment. Amid the multi-colored palette, Dan Feng finds your smile is the most gorgeous flower when you abruptly pop up with a posy of Emperical Peony. The beam you flashed him still lingering in his mind as Dan Feng reluctantly takes the gift. Your hands lightly brush together via the exchange, reminding him of the existence of those black gloves since he has not seen you take them off once. Nevertheless, he lets it pass and dances his slender finger around the ombre corolla instead.  

"Thank you, Yi Ting." - Imbibitor Lunae softly mutters under his breath, and as the lost ray shines through frost winter, a faint smile stretches on his usually glacial face. 

On that day in the summer season, Dan Feng realizes that he does not return to your place because of its spectacular. He wants to revisit the Shangri-La because he likes spending time with you.

On an Autumn afternoon painted in a burnt orange hue and wafting with a ripe persimmon scent, you are leisurely proceeding to the Dan Feng's residence while absentmindedly grazing a bunch of white chrysanthemums in hand. Looking at the High Elder Statue at the Dragonvista Rain Hall, your mind winds up reminiscing about the previous conversation.

"Yes?" - Transfering your focus toward his position, you represented the confusion as if hearing him wrong. The quiet Long Scion might befriend you and be your custom guest, but it was an extraordinary phenomenon since Dan Feng has not asked you to deliver flowers to his estate before. He patiently repeated the order while reading his scroll in one hand, and the other halfway was lifting the teacup with expressionless features. Looking at his relaxing manner, you unknowingly realize this house became Imbibitor Lunae's office. 

When immersing thought in the past, you are suddenly pulled back to the present by a low thud of a light collision with a follow-up painful cry. Tears are bubbling in the Vidyadhara child's doe eyes as she feels the pain. You swiftly support her to stand up and inspect the body while trying to comfort the child, which results in two news in this situation. A good one is a scratch, and the bad is her cry getting louder even though you used up all your tricks. 

"Pain, Pain goes away!" - You singsong to conjure an apple lollipop appearing in hand, and tears stop falling as she eyes your apologetic smile with compensation. When you clean the last drop of trail wet on her chubby cheekbones and apologize with head patting, other Vidyadhara children circle you to admire the little show. A defeated sigh escapes your breath as you look at their twinkle glims and secretly count the remaining candy's quantity. Unfortunately, in addition to your trouble, with an invitation from a brunette-haired boy, the group of children tugs your sleeves to play blind man's buff with their puppy eyes. 

"Alright, but I won't be lenient." - You confidently state when settling the bouquet on a stone bench. And you keep your line.

Once darkness invades the vision, you start to track down the children. By listening to their footsteps and sensing the airflow, you catch all of them except Ma Tian, the boy with sheen eyes who cleverly outclasses your skill. Finally, thanks to your florist's exceptional technique, you discreetly declare the endgame while detecting his fabric detergent in the wind's stream. 

"Catch ya, little brat!" - You happily exclaim your victory when circling your arms around Ma Tian's figure. However, you immediately realize something is wrong as a familiar ambergris cologne lingers on your nose, and you are hugging a lean body. Hurriedly removing the blindfold, you see Dan Feng mimic your shocked expression while Ma Tian lolls out his head behind the Long Scion. 

"How long do you intend to embrace me?" - The High Elder clears his throat with a light reprimand nuance laces in but does not seem annoyed. If there is anything you would admire about Imbibitor Lunae besides his glorious feats, the quick recovery from an embarrassing situation is one of them. As soon as you two detach, Dan Feng grabs the bouquet and leads you out of the Scalegorge Waterscape, leaving the cheerful goodbyes of those children behind. You do not understand why Dan Feng is rushing in his strides until you see a pink tint on his tip ears. 

When the sunset light turns golden on the greenery beneath, which gets everything basked in the look of burnished copper, you two arrive at the military memorial area where illustrious warriors rest in peace. Passing through hundreds of black marble graves glides their name, Dan Feng unravels your holding hands as he crunches down to place the chrysanthemum bouquet in front of a stone-carved Bai Heng. 

You know that name. She was once a High-Cloud quintet member and a gifted pilot who sacrificed in the third Denizen of Abundance. People say Imbibitor Lunae is never a person with love, hatred, sorrow, or joy like everyone else in this world, but now you can shout out they are all wrong because of the unfathomable somber besieges in his orbs.

"Life is so short when it comes to mortal organisms'' - He mouths in a calm and unwavering tone after a long silence - "No matter what you do, they definitely die." With his back turned to you, it is challenging to figure out its meaning, yet you can degust a longing taste entangled in that clause. Forgotten fragments of sunlight slowly die on your heels while trekking to the way out, and the crescent vaguely takes place in the saturated navy sky. Although the High Elder rarely shared his thoughts with someone else, you hardly agree with this viewpoint.

 "Even if it is short-lived, even if fate sometimes turns tragic, limited longevity creates the beauty of lives and valuableness because we learn to cherish life, and not all farewells are regretful. Sometimes, death is also an extrication, and I believe we will rendezvous on another horizon." 

Dan Feng follows your graze to the glitter crepuscule, causing the mellow ray to cradle his features. - "Someday, you also turn into ashes?" - A sliver of bitterness in the question soon morphed into those cyan irises as you confirmed with your bright smile. When the two of you pass through the gate, Imbibitor Lunae abruptly informs you of his next arrival with special requests that combine with osmanthus cake and jasmine tea. It is the first time he proactively reserves in advance because Dan Feng neither notices his attendance nor does he appear on sunny days.  

"Do I have to wait for the rain to meet you?" - Only one sentence, it has changed your relationship ever since. You guess that might be the way he expresses his feelings. 

In a dream, I see myself in my childhood state with a bouquet of blue hydrangeas. Strolling by the seashore, the shells confound in golden sand rustles underneath my bare feet as I search for someone. End then, an abnormal bloodred butterfly hovers around to lead me toward that person; we have passed zillions of landscapes and territories, from glacial rivers where white snow permanently coats mounts to the vast rug crafted by countless vivid blossoms. From the nameless barren deserts with magnificent starry nights crown aloft to the rich prairie possesses coast breezes. I keep going, going.

"Hydrangeas is the soulmate of rains." A distant voice echoes from those feeble wings in the entire journey. It feels like Amber Periods have flown until we reach a field with full-bloom hydrangeas that unfold our presence. Suddenly, my companion disappears into thin air, and I notice a nostalgic glimpse waving his hand from afar as if he has been waiting for me for an astronomical long time. 

"You got my wish fulfilled... Thank you, my comrade." - The boy says in a gentle demeanor. His blue eyes shine brighter than any stars I have ever known, and he also disappears like the bloodred butterfly. His silhouette dissipates into thousands of flower petals as he flashes a warm smile toward me. 

"Wait, H...H..." - A tsunami of impuissant waves brews into my heart when I try to call his name, but none of the syllables come out, and tears continuously cascade from my eyes while I witness the lost world fading.

You wake up from a soothing noise of hot steam oozing out of your old kettle and forget the dream cleanly. "You had a fever." - A low tone voice diagnoses as soon as Dan Feng senses your consciousness. Slightly lifting the heavy eyelids, you see him situating beside your headboard with a botanical book in hand. The glorious sun is far high hanging in the sky to pour its honeyed light through your window, which informs you to oversleep impliedly. You do not notice tears rolling down until the Long Scion points out in skimming your complexion and uses his thumb to caress the trail wetness. Sensing no engagement in conversation, Dan Feng shifts his hand to cover your eyesight and tenderly leans forward.

You only feel a pillowy touch on your forehead afterward. 

"Please do not leave the bed today, and take the medicine on time because this is a prescription from the High Elder." - He faux-orders when rendering your vision. Astoundedly grazing the lingering sensation, you did not know that Imbibitor Lunae has a bizarre way of assessing the temperature. 

Winter at Shangri-La never experiences snow, yet it takes some seasonal features such as the gloomy weather all day with northeast wind seething through every direction. Inspecting the murky clouded skyward, you tug the scarf closer when your breaths dimly turn into silver smoke. As soon as you attempt to lift the white lily cart, a hot stream of fluid smelling like rusty iron runs down your chin, which the soil absorbs its falling drops. When you bring your hand to clean the water, it takes a moment to process it is blood. Your irises squeeze as you dumbfoundedly stare at the ivory gloves tainted with the crimson hue. Just as you intend to step forward, the surrounding spins around as though Earth and Heaven are twitching position, and you kneel only to cough out blood that permeates the fabric. The pollen sparkles in the ether after the collapse, and the shivering lily's petals in chilly winds are the last things in your blurring vision.

[ffangirlingsince2001]

The Witcher and the Princess: Flicker

*not my gif*

Geralt x Reader

Geralt of Rivia is not a babysitter, he is not a bodyguard, and he has no interest in transporting princesses across the continent. Until gold is offered and for the next 90 days he’s saddled with a chirpy, bubbly, princess, who is betrothed to the prince of Narok and has a desire to see everything before she’s trapped behind another set of walls.

Warnings: FLUFFFFF, Smut, (yall deserve something warm and soft)

The sun was covered by thick rain clouds when Geralt opened his eyes the next morning. He didn’t know that of course. The thick curtains were done up over the large windows, keeping the room as dark as it had been the night before, but he could feel the threat of rain in his bones.

He groaned in satisfaction, stretching the sleep from his limps, slightly surprised to find the princess plastered on top of him. Her naked legs were still wrapped around his waist, tight against his hips. Her chest was pressed to his stomach, breathing in as he breathed out. Her head was resting on his chest, hair spilling over his shoulders as she deeply slumbered. The heavy wool blanket that was once laid beneath them was now draped across damp skin.

It was strange to imagine that the prior night’s events had not been another one of his many dreams. She was really hear, smelling like him and sugar roses. It was strange to lay with someone soft, someone who would not disappear into the crowds of the market the moment they were awake. Someone who had not disappeared the moment he fell asleep with the jingle of coins following them out the door.

Now that he had had her, it pained him to know how he had treated her.

How had even dared to bruise her skin?

And the words he had growled in her ear while she whimpered were nothing short of a barbarian. They should never have been spoken to someone so tender, especially when she had never experienced anything like it. He had allowed his fantasies to overtake reality and now a layer of guilt coated his skin like sweat.

She had not complained of course, she had loved every minute of it, but that did not change the fact that he knew he would have to do better the next time.

She was a princess, and princesses were made to be worshipped, not forced onto their knees.

He shook the thoughts from his head and turned his attention to the present, to the quiet comfort that was the now. He would have been content to lie like that for hours, with only the sound of her breathing to keep him company, but it was not in the cards for that particular morning. Thunder grumbled across the sky and she stirred. He cursed the sky as she lifted her head from his chest and looked around, sending him a sleepy smile. Her eyes were still laden with exhaustion but they were warm.

“Mornin’,” she whispered, pulling their skin apart with a grand effort. While she stretched, she dragged her fingers across his skin, lingering at the nape of his neck,, thumbs running over his cheeks. She sat up, raising her arms high into the air and blushed when she noticed his eyes were watching her bare chest with apt fascination. Lightning flashed behind the curtains, snapping her attention away from his hunger and towards the window. Quick as a flash she had left him, wrapping the blanket around herself and gliding towards the window with more grace than a queen in her cape ever could. Even with the cool air rushing over his skin he was warm, content with the ability to watch her as she threw open the curtains, lighting casting a sharp halo around her silhouette. The blanket slipped down her shoulders, scooping beneath her shoulder blades. The skin glowed softly in the light that was managing to filter through the clouds, the strands of her hair catching in the light as she pressed her forehead against the glass, staring down at the people rushing to finish their chores before the torrential downpour swept away all their hard work.

“Come back to bed,” he muttered after a few moments. She glanced over her shoulder, but did not move, focusing instead on the rain that had begun to fall. He sighed and swung his legs over the edge of the bed and padded towards her. She leaned back into him when she felt his arms wrap her waist and sighed. “Come back to bed,” he repeated, and she laughed, kissing his jaw.

“Don’t we have places to be?” He tightened his arms around her waist, reveling in the feeling of her voice vibrating in her stomach.

“Yes, my bed,” he growled softly, swooping her into his arms.

“Put me down!” she squealed, but he only laughed before dropping her back onto the mattress and climbing on top of her. She squirmed beneath him, wrapping her arms around her chest with a blush, the blanket no longer there to create an essence of modesty. He leaned down, pressing a kiss to her neck as he pulled her arms away, marking a pathway between her breasts with soft, languid kisses.

“You’re so fucking beautiful,” he breathed into her skin and she flushed, the skin he had spoken to growing hot. She giggled when he bit her shoulder softly and slid out from beneath him, dragging the blanket with her. He caught it, expecting her to return to him without the comfort of wool but she continued. His mouth watered at the sight of her, legs, ass, and back all exposed to him like some water nymph who had wandered from her stream. She turned to face him, pressing her skin against the cool window and the sight was all the more tantalizing. “Why do you insist on evading me?”

“To see if you’ll chase me?”

“Why when you already know the answer?”

“Reassurance.” He smirked, watching as goosebumps began to creep down her stomach. Her eyes didn’t dare to meet his as she leaned against the window, nervousness clearly displayed in her eyes.  “I’m taking a bath,” she declared before pulling the cover off the bath, letting off a wave of steam into the room.

Slowly, she lowered herself into the water before settling against the wooden edge. He watched her a few moments, recalling one of the first nights she had been in his care. She had been forbidden then, untouchable in every way, but now he knew every part of her physical being, and in this light, it felt like he knew her soul too.

“You could join me… if you would like,” she proclaimed, eyes still closed as she lounged against the edge. He smirked and climbed out of the bed, deciding that this was an excellent compromise to his demand that she return to the bed.

He entered a leg at a time before lowering himself into the warm water. Water slipped over the edge and created little streams across the knotted floor. For a moment he wondered how the water had stayed warm, but the moment she opened her eyes, curiosity vanished and the only thing he bothered to contemplated was how to get her closer.

“It could be warmer,” she declared, and he raised an eyebrow. “But after last night I’m not sure anything will ever warm enough.”

He swallowed hard at her proclamation, at the implication of it all.

“You could always join me on the side of the tub,” he offered, and she smiled before pushing through the water and climbing into his lap. Her back pressed against his chest while she shifted, trying to find comfort while progressively making him more uncomfortable. He felt the member between his legs tighten and he could tell she was grinning.

They remained like that for quite some time, silently enjoying the sound of the water lapping against skin and the fast raindrops tapping against their window. Suddenly, she turned around, pressing her lips to his. He wrapped his arms around her torso and she wrapped her legs around his waist.

He was determined it would be soft this time, that he wouldn’t harm her. He didn’t pull her hair but ran his hands through it and instead of bruising her skin he traced intricate designs over every curve. Her hand slipped beneath the surface and lined him up with her entrance before sinking onto him.

He groaned while she sighed, burying her face into his neck, nails digging into his back and shivers running up his spine. She didn’t move at first, and he didn’t make her. They sat in perfect stillness until the water no longer rippled around them.

“Can you hear that?” she whispered, staring at him eyes big and full of wonder. He shook his head and she smiled.

“It’s like a symphony out there, the wind, the thunder, the rain. I can hear it singing.” He laughed and she leaned into him, resting her lips against his ear. “Shall we join them? I have a few noises that would make a perfect melody.” He choked on his laughter and she rocked against him a few times before his hands took her hips and they began to move in perfect synchronization.

Waves of bath water rocked between them, splashing outside of the tub, their ocean of solitude spilling onto the floor.

She was right of course, about the noises she made harmonizing with the storm outside. It seemed that she gasped with very strike of lightning and moaned with every rumble of thunder. Her body shook like a flower petal being tormented by the rain and her breath ran across his wet skin like a cool breeze. Before he knew it, goosebumps of his own had run their course over his skin.

When the day finally came that he was to die, this is how he wanted it to be done. Soft light and soft skin clouding his senses and a girl he thought he might love wrapped around him like a cocoon ushering him to the next life.

The movement between the two of them became more frantic as they neared the end. More than half of the water had been evacuated from the tub, but she was still going. Her lips tasted sweet and warm against his, like wildflowers that only grew in the summer.

He knew she was close before she whispered it and he groaned, allowing his own rush of pleasure as her core tightening around him, the heartbeat in her core sending sparks of lust through the blood that was rushing to his brain. When she had finished, she didn’t pull away but laid her head on his chest and allowed silence to envelope them once more. He closed his eyes, smiling to himself as he ran his fingers through her hair. She returned the favor, delicate fingers curling themselves around the small hair that grew around his ears. He wanted to speak, to ask her so many questions but the rain kept him silent and eventually drove exhaustion back into his body.

Carefully, he stood, carrying her in his arms, and made his way over to the bed. The wool blanket found itself around them once more and he fell asleep listening to the sounds of the rain and her soft breathing tickling his ear.

@mallorydoesstuff @facelessfiction @aphadriel-fanfic @raspberrydreamclouds @thegreattodd @saint-hardy @ravenclawsstolemybunies @queenofmankind @britty443 @lonewolf471 @utterlyhopeful-fics @persephonehemingway @fuck-me-gently-with-a-slurpee @josis-teacup

[of-muppets-and-men]

A Rose and Her Thorns

A piece I finally found the time to finish.

Spring.

Arguably Raven’s least favourite season. Summer was always warm and inviting; never sullied by the rain. Autumn was cool, its winds delicate and gentle; not to mention the breathtaking beauty of the forest. Winter, while bitter and unforgiving, at least gave her a reason to hunker down in her tent; warmed by fresh tea and heavy blankets. But Spring?

Spring was what it always was: Groggy and Wet.

The near constant rain seeped into everything it could; her clothes, her tent, and more annoyingly, the earth. The ground became a thick field of mud, making setting up camp a pain. Trees and foliage damp to the touch, making campfires all the more difficult to light. Raven had been through this time and time again, and with every passing year, she hated it even more.

And so, Raven sat quietly, trying to enjoy a cup of jasmine tea. A steady beat of raindrops pelted the roof of her tent, causing the bandit queen to seethe. With a deep sigh, she took a slow sip from her porcelain cup. The tea brought warmth to her numb fingers as she relished in her favorite tea. But her bliss was rudely interrupted when she heard the loud stomping of boots headed towards her tent.

The Bandit Queen nearly dropped her cup as Vernal and two of her scouts came fumbling in, trodding mud with every step. Raven was surprised to see her scouts so badly beaten. They may not have been her, but they definitely knew how to handle themselves. One of them was basically being carried by Vernal while the other stumbled inside, clutching his ribcage. Raven half-heartedly walked over to inspect the damage of her comrades; Vernal dressed the injuries best she could.

“Who did this to you?” Raven asked abrasively “C’mon. Speak up.”

“No idea.” Her scout spoke “This chick just ambushed us out of nowhere. Didn’t even have time to fight bac-”

The well built man winced in pain as Vernal bandaged his broken ribs. His partner was nursing her concussion with a bag of ice. Raven scoffed in disappointment, but led onto the more pressing question.

“This woman… Was she a huntress?”

“Maybe.” The other scout piped up.

“What did she look like?” Raven questioned again.

“Short. Couldn’t see her face under her cloak though.” The scout explained.

“Cloak?” Raven spat, eyebrow cocked.

“Yeah… big white and red cloak surrounded by flower petals.”

The Bandit Queen’s eyes grew wide in realisation. She stood back up, fists clenched and body tense. A deep sigh followed as her subordinates looked on in bewilderment. Raven had long dreaded this would happen. The day she left her family, her team; she knew one day they’d come looking for her.

“You okay, Boss?” Her scouts asked in unison.

“Vernal. Get these two patched up in the medical tent. I’ll tend to this myself.” Raven declared.

Her lieutenant attempted to protest “Raven, Are you sur-”

“Yes, I am. Now go.”

A tone of voice Vernal knew well and she knew it wasn’t wise to stick around. The lieutenant ushered the scouts of the tent, hoping not to exacerbate their injuries. Raven ambled toward Omen, clutching her weapon’s scabbard intently. She fastened it to her hip, unsheathing the crimson blade. The red glint comforted her in its own strange way, a poignant reminder of her own strength. The Leader of the Branwen tribe resheathed her blade, donned her mask, and set out in search of the trespasser.

In a moment’s notice, she flew above the treeline.  As much disdain as she held for Ozpin, this was far and away the best thing he’d ever done for her. Raven glided through the air, relishing in the freedom of flight. There she gazed upon the earth for a sign, any sign of human life.

And sure enough, a plume of smoke protruded from the canopy; an obvious signal to lure her in. The smoke was too thick to be just logs. No, someone had intentionally let it billow. A clever ploy at the very least. Raven dived back into the forest to better trace the source, noticing hints of flame through the damp thicket.

With a surge of magic, Raven returned to her human form and hid within the treeline. A move she’d learned as a child and perfected as a huntress; She laid an eye onto the clearing. And the lack of… anything, worried her. Other than the fire, there was nothing; no bedroll, no provisions, nobody. Every bit of this reeked of a trap. Raven gripped Omen tight; the mechanism swirled and locked in a blade. Hesitant to expose herself, the bandit queen waited for the perpetrator to act…

*Swish*

Three dust bolts flew past her head, embedding themselves into an adjacent tree six inches above her. Her cover blown, Raven blitzed out of the treeline. Her gaze zeroed in on the direction the bolts came from; a large oak tree. The closer she got, the silhouette of woman became more apparent within the branches. Another volley wisped past the brush. Raven sidestepped them before lunging at the trespasser. But before Omen could connect, the mystery woman exploded into flower petals. Raven’s eye widened in disbelief, only to sharpen once more as she turned around.

The edge of Omen’s blade nearly an inch from the woman’s throat; countered by the fact a blade hovered over Raven’s heart. A smirk formed on the Bandit Queen’s face as she breathed the woman’s name.

“Summer. Long time no see.”

“Likewise Raven. Do you… want to continue?” Summer inquired.

The old friends chuckled before resheathing their weapons. Their eyes remained locked on one another; hostility not entirely off the table. Raven could see her former leader’s eye glimmering in the shade; a sight that made her nervous.

“Let’s talk over there.” The smaller woman said, gesturing over to the clearing.

Raven nodded and followed Summer back into the dim light of the afternoon. With a couple cleaves, Raven had made a tree into something relatively comfortable to sit on. They awkwardly sat at opposite ends, facing away from each other to avoid eye contact. Silence enveloped them as they both pondered on what to say. After all, in the grand scheme, Raven had only departed one and a half years ago. Such a long time and yet equally not. But ever abrasive, the bandit queen started her inquiry.

“What the hell are you doing here, Summer?”

“A girl can’t catch up with an old friend?” the smaller woman answered coyly.

“You could… But I highly doubt you roughed up my men just for a chat.”

“Hmph… I missed your skepticism.”

Summer let out a deep sigh, her hands trembling as she did so. A thing Raven found odd to say the least. Summer, as far as she knew, was the most cheerful beacon of hope she’d ever had the displeasure of meeting. So seeing her former leader downtrodden was alarming to say the least.

“I really am here to talk, Rae. I have a thing I need to vent about. I can’t tell Tai and I sure as hell can’t tell Qrow, so if you could bear with it without bitching at me; That’d be great.”

It took a moment for Summer to realize she had begun to cry. She half-heartedly wiped the tears away with her sleeves, only for more to take their place.

A sight profoundly alien to Raven. In the many years she’d known her, she’d never seen Summer with anything less than a grin. And now to see her former leader falling apart at the seams, it… scared her. In ways she hadn’t felt for a long time.

Raven shuffled closer to her old friend, rubbing her back to calm her down.

“Summer. What’s wrong?”

A still teary Summer looked up at her old friend and managed to whimper out an answer: “I’m pregnant, Rae.”

Her answer lingered in the air for a spell; Raven’s shock telegraphed by her eyes. She didn’t know how to feel about it. Should she be happy? After all, despite her current position, this was still a momentous occasion. Or should she be angry? Considering Summer and Tai had been living together. A fact she knew as a result of her snooping. The latter would have to do…

“That’s… incredible, Summer.” A stale attempt at enthusiasm.

The soon-to-be mother didn’t respond. She only continued to lazily wipe away her tears.

“It’s no wonder you haven’t told Tai. The blond idiot couldn’t stop celebrating when I told him. Couldn’t imagine it happening all over again.” Again, Summer remained silent.

“Y’know Sum? I’m almost proud. Snatching up Tai as soon as I was out of the picture. Didn’t think you had it in you if i’m being honest…”

“Raven, stop…”

“No, I’m serious Sum. I didn’t think you had an assertive bone in your body, yet here you are carrying my ex’s ba-”

“IT’S NOT TAI’S!!!!” Summer snapped, standing now with her fists clenched.

Once more, Raven sat dumbfounded, “Not Tai’s? Then who’s?”

With her hood pulled over her head, Summer spoke: “Qrow’s”

Silver eyes shone through the shadow of her hood, fear and uncertainty shrouding their beauty. The mirror-like gaze matched by deep scarlet. Raven was at a loss for words. Today was turning out to be far more eventful than she had thought. She hadn’t seen anyone from STRQ in well over a year. Now, in a matter of a few fleeting minutes, her former best friend drops back into her life and tells her she's going to be an aunt.

But Qrow? Qrow?

Her pissant little brother was going to be a father. The cursed brat of the Branwen tribe. She could barely believe her ears. Raven stood in stunned silence while Summer gave that annoying look of hers.

“See my problem, now?”

It took a moment for Raven to find the words. Where should she start? Her entire perception of life as a student was just uprooted. Summer and Qrow. The thought of them together made her stomach churn. But how long had they been this way? And how did she never pick up on it? Too deep in thought, Summer piped up to give the answers she required.

“Second year.” Summer voiced.

“What?”

“We’ve been together since second year.” the little woman clarified.

“You’ve been keeping this secret for 3 years?” Raven fumed, nearly impressed by the resolve. “Does Tai know?”

“No. And It wasn’t our intention for it to be this way. We were going to tell you two when we graduated, but then you left… Tai was in a bad place and I chose to help him. We both decided it wasn’t the time or the place, which is why I’m here now.”

The Bandit Queen scoffed, her fists clenched with frustration, “So that’s why he stayed...”

Raven shot up from her makeshift seat, Summer puzzled at her sudden change in temperament. The Bandit that was once her friend started to make her way back to the tribe she’d left them for. The smaller woman followed close behind, intent to change her mind. Their boots sloshed in the mud as Summer grabbed her wrist.

“Where are you going?” Summer badgered.

“Home. I’m done with our little talk.” Raven snarled in response.

“Then you’re going the wrong way.”

Scarlet eyes whipped back, clearly laced with insult. Summer looked back defiantly, unfazed by Raven’s temper.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“You have a home, but it’s not here. It’s back on Patch where your husband, daughter, brother, myself and now your niece are waiting for you.” Summer lectured, clutching her abdomen. “Your FAMILY.”

Raven said nothing in return. Only rolling her eyes as she pulled her wrist from Summer’s grasp. Family? What a joke. The wilds were the only place for her now, as much as Summer begged to differ. It was Qrow’s too, but he was a fool, just like Oz and the rest. Raven would have no part in it. She stormed away, back through the thicket and loose earth.

It stung. Watching her friend choose a group of lowlifes over the family they made. A low scoff wisped passed her lips.

“You were a lot of things, Rae. Strong, Stubborn, Proud. But I never took you for a coward.”

Coward. The word struck Raven like a punch. In a flash of rage, she lunged at her former best friend. Omen’s blade sliced through the air, narrowly missing Summer’s head. The Tiny Huntress flowed around the weapon’s edge, sidestepping it entirely. With a solemn look, Summer then kicked Raven clean in the jaw, sending her tumbling into the mud. In her anguish, she’d forgotten to engage her aura.

Raven rubbed her aching chin, looking up at the woman who beat her. Summer gazed back, her expression dripping with disappointment. And with a shake of her head, she left, dissipating into a shroud of flower petals, leaving Raven alone. The bandit picked herself up and made the walk back to camp.

Vernal stood waiting for her, pacing by the gate. As soon as her leader appeared from the treeline, she rushed over to assess what had transpired.

“Raven? Gods, what happened out there?” The lieutenant questioned.

“NOTHING.” Raven barked as she trotted back to her tent.

Vernal watched her leader vanish behind the vestibule. Raven tossed Omen aside in a pile of cloth. She angrily poured herself more tea, recounting the day she’d had. Gods above, she hated spring, but summer was becoming a close second.

[sky-the-confused]

100 Follower Special!!

First of all, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of your support! To celebrate all of you and this amazing milestone, I present:

Raindrops and Flower Petals Event!

You, my dear readers, can choose between the flowers listed below and their meanings, and/or a rain prompt! Up to 2 Requests are allowed per person, and any character is fair game. NSFW is allowed, you will just have to let me know the gender of the reader!!

Anyway, without further ado:

Raindrop Prompts:

Raindrop: A confession

Sprinkling: A first date

Drizzle: Cuddles/Holding eachother

Lightning: A first kiss

Thunderstorm: A dream

Distant Thunder: Pining

Petrichor: When they're gone

Flower Petal Prompts:

Rose: True Love; Meant to Be.

Lily: An Apology; Remorse

Chrysanthemum: Happiness; Friendship

Tulip: Perfect; A Deep Love

Lavender: Healing; The Unknown

Daffodil: Hope; New Beginnings

Aster: Innocence; A Puppy Love

Iris: Trust

Hyacinth: Sorrow; Forgiveness

Carnation: Eternal Grief OR Infatuation

Asphodel: A Death; Love Beyond the Grave

Ask box is now officially open for the event! Anonymous asks are allowed, though I will ask to please limit requests to 2 per person! The event will be in action from August 8-16!

P.S. Requests will be written as soon as possible, but are not promised to be done right away. :) Have fun!! Love you all!! ♡♡

[flowerssalers123-blog]

The most effective method to Think Like a Florist When Choosing and Caring for Fresh Flowers at Home

As an occasion flower vendor, keeping blossoms alive and looking great is a quite essential piece of my employment at Winston and Main. I frequently joke that with or without plan and creativity, I'm extremely to a greater degree a triage nurture for my botanical companions. I survey their condition and get them stable, so they can leave my attentive gaze and make their wonderful route on the planet.

I'm constantly excited by my customers' enthusiastic reaction to my work, and doubly glad to hear that my blossoms went on for a truly significant time-frame. Obviously, a few blossoms simply aren't far from passing on once they're cut, or there's a warmth wave, or they were harmed in travel. Notwithstanding these conditions that are out of your control, here are a couple of tips and deceives for ensuring your blossoms look great and keep going as far as might be feasible once you get them home.

 At the point when You're Shopping

 On the off chance that you have the alternative to purchase new, nearby blossoms, start there. Blossom ranches, ranchers markets, and your city's bloom advertise (in case you're in a major city like LA, or SF) are for the most part great choices. Try not to be hesitant to ask where your blossoms originated from or to what extent your vender has had them. Here are a couple of additionally shopping tips you can apply regardless of where you're shopping (your neighborhood supermarket) or where you're blossoms originated from (regularly South America):

Bloom stems ought to be firm and strong. Wonderful dahlias, ranunculus, and numerous different blossoms aren't far from passing on once their stems go delicate.

Roses ought to be for the most part quit for the day on the off chance that you press them (delicately) they should feel firm, not soft. Soft roses = old roses.

While "raindrops on roses" may be somebody's preferred thing it, it unquestionably isn't mine. Water decays roses, and a lot of different blossoms, so in the event that you see water impractically shimmering on those blossoms, soft earthy colored petals most likely aren't a long ways behind (or more regrettable, they're as of now there, stowing away on the roses/blossoms within the pack) Steer clear.

 Purchase blossoms before they are completely open. When they're at their greatest, most excellent best (peony my companion, I'm taking a gander at you), they are really toward a mind-blowing finish cycle, and it's not some time before they start dropping petals or potentially hanging.

 ·         Post Image

·         Spare

·         PIN IT

·         Enter Prism

·         SEE MORE IMAGES

Molding When You Get Home

 When you get your blossoms home, it's an ideal opportunity to condition them. Blossoms have regularly voyage significant distances and need to rehydrate and rest before you can organize them. Plan ahead and purchase somewhat early, so you aren't enticed to jump right to the orchestrating.

 ·         This is what I do when I return from the blossom bazaar:

·         I blend blossom food with cold water in clean pails.

·         I evacuate any leaves that will be beneath the water line in my cans

 I utilize botanical shears to cut my stems, at that point I immediately put my blossoms in water—you have around 10 seconds before stems close up. Botanical shears or a sharp blade are fundamental since you would prefer not to crunch the stem and harm the blossoms capacity to drink.

I put my blossom cans in a dull, cool room and leave them to rest, regularly overnight.

At the point when it's an ideal opportunity to mastermind my blossoms, I re-clip each stem as I place it in its last container or vessel. https://jardinfleurs.com

 Keeping up Your Beautiful Buds

Your work doesn't end once the blossoms make it into the jar. There is a ton you can do to keep up the vibe of your sprouts and keep them searching better for more.

Messy water is loaded with bloom eliminating microbes, so consistently or two change the water. Clean the container, include new water and blossom food, and re-cut the stems as you place them back in the jar.

Keep your blossoms out of direct daylight, and away from the radiator/climate control system/fan.

Get your blossoms far from new organic product. Numerous natural products discharge ethylene gas and numerous blossoms are delicate to it, so it will abbreviate their jar life.

 What's more, since you know the "rules" you can break them:

 Recollect what I said up there about water spoiling your blossoms? Peonies and hydrangea are two special cases. Don't hesitate to dunk tragic hydrangea in water, sprout first, to help rehydrate them, or on the off chance that you have a difficult peony that won't open (or on the off chance that you, ahem, need it open for an occasion) you can lower it in water, head first, and trust that the enchantment will occur.

Cheerful blossom masterminding! Inform me as to whether you have any blossom explicit inquiries.

[kwritersworld]

Spring Fic Exchange - Masterlist

Here you can find all the stories written by our lovely members that participated in our Spring Fic Exchange ‘19. Enjoy reading!

Your Kwritersworld Team

Sheer | written by @daelicious-jongbulge

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff,Romance, HS!AU | Wordcount: 582 | gifted to: @i-live-so-i-love ➵ Yoongi, your resident emo!tm kid would have never believed it if you told him he would fall in love with resident sunshine, Hoseok

Cafuné | written by @99liners

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: fluff/comedy/nsfw | Wordcount: 3.336 | gifted to: @vanaera ➵ Cafuné (v.) running your hand through your lover’s hair.

Sweet Histamine | written by @writingsofmyimagination

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Smut | Wordcount: 2.663 | gifted to: @njssi ➵ Who would have thought forgetting to take your hay-fever tablets could end so sweetly.

Spring Rain | written by @today-we-will-survive

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff, Romance | Wordcount: 861 | gifted to: @writingsofmyimagination ➵ “So much for a romantic first day of Spring picnic,” you utter clutching the basket tightly in your white knuckled fists. From where the two of you lean in the doorway of your apartment building, you have a front row seat to the torrential downpour coming down on the city. [...]

Witchy Weddings | written by @itsthechickwiththehair

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff, Romance | Wordcount: 1.000 | gifted to: @today-we-will-survive➵ “What do you think the clouds look like today?” It was a question he asked you almost every day there were clouds in the sky. [...] The clouds looked like clouds, big pieces of fluff that drifted across the sky and occasionally spilled their tears to the earth below. You had asked him, on a day that he seemed to be feeling blue, why he liked asking you the same question every time. He smiled in response, looking up at the sky. “Because clouds are a lot like people.” [...]     

Let me inspire you | written by @today-we-will-survive

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff, Romance, Angst | Wordcount: 1.375 | gifted to: @minstrivia ➵ It’s a short walk to Yoongi’s apartment, but one you always enjoy. The trees lining the streets of the city are in full bloom, coating the sidewalks with white and pink petals. The air smells fresh like grass and last night’s rain. You’ve always loved the spring the most. It’s a time for new things to come into fruition. And it’s when you met Yoongi.

Dancing in the rain | written by @itsthechickwiththehair

➵ Band: Got7 | Genre: Fluff,Romance | Wordcount: 1.200 | gifted to: @restlessmaknae ➵ You packed up your things and started to head out, saying goodbye to your coworkers as you passed by their desks. Most of them looked like their souls had been ripped out of their bodies, although some of them looked a bit more awake with the amount of caffeine they had flowing through their system. You were halfway there yourself, but most of your motivation to get the project done as fast as you did was the thought of your loving boyfriend.

Spring is here (and it’s trying to kill you) | written by @today-we-will-survive

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff | Wordcount: 1.500 | gifted to: @njssi ➵ It’s supposed to be a fun, relaxing day with your best friends, celebrating the end of the cold months and hanging out before they go back on tour but you can’t help the uneasy feeling that’s growing in the pit of your stomach as you look around the field at the tiny specks floating on the breeze. Those evil little balls of fluff and pollen are your worst enemies, and here you are completely unarmed.

Querencia | written by @softjeon

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff, a little bit of angst | Wordcount: 3.500  | gifted to: @seokoloqy ➵  In reality there was no beauty in heartbreak. Nothing that made it easy. Only pain. The cold and yourself - stripped down to your bare feelings. It embraced you, welcoming you like an old friend, leaving you wondering if you’d ever feel warm again. | querencia (Spanish, n.) - a place from which one’s strength is drawn, where one feels at home; the place where you are your most authentic self

I’m just a foreigner | written by @jinniesbby

➵ Band: NCT | Genre: High School!AU | Wordcount: 728 | gifted to: @bangtantannie ➵  You take a step towards the pain in the ass that calls himself Lucas and narrow your gaze.“Okay. Listen up buddy and listen well. I will never in a million years go out on a date with you.” You state firmly, poking his well-toned, chiseled chest. Wait. What? Has he always been like that?

I saw him standing there | written by @jinniesbby

➵ Band: NCT | Genre: Angst, Romance | Wordcount: 771 | gifted to: @99liners ➵ The neighbor who doesn’t know about your swift infatuation with him. The neighbor who only makes you fall deeper and deeper in the black hole that you call a crush. The neighbor who so happens to like another girl that it honestly causes your heart to ache whenever you think about it.

Lil something called love | written by @daelicious-jongbulge

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff, Romance | Wordcount: 825 | gifted to: @itsthechickwiththehair ➵ all life contains water and all life can be bent to your whim. 

Blood in the water | written by @seokoloqy

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Smut, Angst, Avatar!AU | Wordcount: 6.800 | gifted to: @sopewriters ➵ It’s just- you know- sitting here and seeing you surrounded by all these beautiful flowers like the perfect angel you are, makes me realize just how in love I am with you” or in which Yoongi sneaks you out to a flower field the night before your wedding

The melody remedy | written by @daelicious-jongbulge

➵ Band: Day6 | Genre: Fluff, Romance | Wordcount: 543 | gifted to: @restlessmaknae ➵ In which he softy lulls you to sleep in the midst of a springtime storm.

Sleep Morning | written by @i-live-so-i-love

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Smut | Wordcount: 2122 | gifted to: @softjeon ➵ Sleepy morning cuddles turn into more.

Euphoria| written by @kimlinebiased

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Smut | Wordcount: 4500 | gifted to: @softjeon ➵ Jungkook has had a crush on the leader of BTS since forever. Now that Namjoon is helping write his solo for the upcoming album, this could be his perfect chance.

Tears & Raindrops mingle | written by @restlessmaknae

➵ Band: Ikon | Genre: Fluff, light Angst | Wordcount: 4100 | gifted to: @flora-jimin ➵ In which you bump into the CEO of a nearby bar when you are just as heart-broken as him and it doesn’t seem to go well at first.

Balter | written by @99liners

➵ Band: MonstaX | Genre: Fluff | Wordcount: 2064 | gifted to: @flora-jimin ➵ balter (v.) to become tangled.

A window to your heart | written by @vanaera 

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff, slight angst | Wordcount: 3725 | gifted to: @today-we-will-survive ➵ When you–Jimin’s hellbound boss who initiates ridiculous post-it wars, unnecessary height challenges, whilst giving him loads of paperwork he finds too much for an intern–do not show up at work one Thursday, Jimin is definitely over the moon. However, his supposed miracle day takes a different turn when he later finds himself in a bus stop, awkwardly comforting you after finding you drenched under the rain.

Way down in bed stuy | written by @minstrivia

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Smut, slight angst | Wordcount: 5000 | gifted to: @taendrils ➵ as a final farewell you fuck your sister’s unbelievably attractive knave boyfriend that you definitely do not have feelings for…again.

La Vie en rose | written by @sopewriters

➵ Band: EXO | Genre: Fluff, Angst, Humor | Wordcount: 5500 | gifted to: @roseyjongdae ➵ It was a chaotic morning, and you were running late, and everything that could possibly have gone wrong did go wrong, and then… you found him. If only you hadn’t lost him just as quick.

No Place He’d rather be | written by @flora-jimin

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff | Wordcount: 5300 | gifted to: @apotatomashedbybts ➵ Yoongi gets called to help out at Jin’s daycare and the following is a small, fluffy oneshot of him realizing Hoseok’s wonderful at childcare and that he’s fallen head over heels for the man.

Fallen for you | written by @njssi

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff | Wordcount: 4400 | gifted to: @jinniesbby ➵ Your best friend returns to your life after half a year of almost no communication while he dealt with an ending relationship. However, you could have never guessed what he really had to tell you when you agreed to meet.

A Valentines Date | written by @sopewriters

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff | Wordcount: 2000 | gifted to: @jinniesbby​ ➵ So, you and your fake boyfriend decide to spend a Valentine’s evening together doing a lot less than what most actual couples normally do. Yet, this is the most fun you’ve had in the longest time and gosh, since when did looking at Jungkook’s stupid smile get your heart to flutter like this?

Under the cherry blossoms | written by @apotatomashedbybts

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff | Wordcount: 5800 | gifted to: @kimlinebiased ➵ Namjoon and Seokjin, high school best friends and college sweethearts, are deeply in love with each other. Just when they were about to take everything next level, a terrible accident pushes them apart, well for a while. But when the love is true, you always stick by. And for them no way is difficult enough if they are together.

But you do... | written by @apotatomashedbybts

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Fluff | Wordcount: 5800 | gifted to: @njssi ➵ Lee, an ordinary girl, with an ordinary wish to have a loving family. But not always all wishes come true, not even the simplest ones. She still has to know that family doesn’t always mean the same, it could be a single person too.]

Breaking the rose | written by @bangtantannie

➵ Band: BTS | Genre: Romance, Angst | Wordcount: 6000 | gifted to: @minstrivia ➵ Lost in a world of rose and pink, what does one do when the one that abandoned them finally returns.

Thank you to everyone who made our first event so beautiful! You all wrote amazing stories and we can’t wait to hold more Network activities in the future!

- Your Kwritersworld Team

[whereisvanderwood]

Interleave

At last, this is my full contribution for @saeranzine I had the honor in taking part in this year. The project had equal parts challenges and achievements, and the fun shared with every other writer, artist and mod during this time is an experience I’ll never forget as my first zine being part of. Thank you everyone who supported us!

Please enjoy the piece :) Happy holidays, everyone!

☆☆☆☆☆

You’d gotten the good ending, the normal one, too. All that was left was to break his heart five times for that one-hundred percent completion of his love story. It was a bittersweet feeling upon realizing that your journey was on the home-stretch. The more you thought about it, however, you couldn’t bring yourself to break his heart like that after all the brokenness he’d been subjected to before. Especially since you knew what the bad endings for the RFA members were -- Ray’s could only be tenfold more devastating. You wouldn’t do it. You couldn’t do it.

The familiar ping of the messenger popped your bubble of thought and enticed you to pick up your phone as it sat on the marble-finish coffee table. It was the 10:23am chatroom of Day Six. You knew what it meant for you if you opened it -- the kinds of answers you would have to choose to get a new outcome. You refused to play along, tapping onto Ray’s contact to give him a call instead.

One ring… Two rings… Three rings… No answer.

You rose from the table and carried yourself to the lancet windows. The morning was young and the garden flickered with quartz-like raindrops under the dawning of the day’s first light. You knew he wouldn’t pick up at this time on the sixth day, but your thumb wouldn’t desist in tapping his name again and again as though you were in a stupor.

A shrill of static noise ripped through the air, causing you to block your ears and drop your phone. As you frantically inspected the device for cracks, you noticed the screen displaying that you were in a phone call. You held the phone to your ear and timidly spoke.

“Ray...?”

“MC! Did something happen? I got worried something happened to you.”

“Oh, uh… no, I’m okay. Were you, um, working?”

“Saviour said I can’t speak with you until I finish improvements. I’m sorry I didn’t pick up the first time… Are you mad?”

“N-No, of course not! I just… I was wondering if you wanted to maybe… go out?”

“Go out? As in... leave?”

“Yeah! I mean, not like that, but with you!”

“I… I can’t, MC. Saviour would be upset if I did. There’s so much to be done.”

“We’ll come back by the end of the day -- just for a few hours. It’ll be good for you, too!”

He exhaled, the sound of his breath dragging past his lips. “MC, you don’t have to do this for me. I don’t deserve it. I’m weak, and an airhead--”

“You’re not to me. I want to spend time with you.”

“But what if something bad happens to you because of me? I… I wouldn’t be able to live with myself.”

“Ray, I swear nothing will happen to you, or me. I just want to… see you smile.”

He sighed a second time. “Meet me in the garden. Hide next to the geraniums where security won’t see you. I’ll be there in a few minutes... Please, don’t go anywhere.”

Once the call ended, you sat on the bed with a hand on your chest, your heart pounding with adrenaline every passing second. He’d answered the call when you could’ve sworn he wasn’t meant to, and that wasn’t an ordinary conversation. It was too ordinary to be ‘normal’ by the route’s standards.

You snuck out from your suite to meet him, going with the flow of the unexpected turn.

…

You gazed silently outside the moving car’s window as distance grew between you and Mint Eye. Maple leaves dusted the asphalt with their fiery hues of red and orange, adding colour to the seemingly grey road. Nothing could beat the beauty of mother nature and her sky-scraping pine trees high up in the mountains.

“We’re almost there…” Ray spoke quietly as he gripped the steering wheel.

“Thank you for lending me a Believer’s uniform.”

“I didn’t want you to get cold.. A-and I had to make sure we wouldn’t be seen leaving. I want to make sure you’re safe.”

“I know… I think it’s really brave of you to come out with me like this.”

It wasn’t long before the familiar bustling of people came into view around the last corner.  Ray parked the car a good distance away to avoid being spotted by the security cameras. It seemed much more vast than you’d last remembered. For a place that you could only enjoy in the prologue for a scarce moment, you wished you were granted more time for exploration.

Together, you walked along the brick road of the metropolis, the splashes of colours from cafes and clothing boutiques catching your eye wherever you looked. Finally free from your beautified prison after a number of repeated weeks, you couldn’t help but feel giddy.

Before long, you found yourself standing in front of the same cafe you were first picked up from. You felt your stomach grumble.

“I heard they have really good ice-cream here… Should we get some?”

“I-If you’d like,” Ray smiled.

Many people had queued in line to enjoy the mouth-watering delight on the cloudless morning. How long had it been since he’d taken gladness from this secret pleasure of his? It must’ve been an awful number of months.

“My treat,” you insisted as you pulled out a coin purse from the cloak’s pocket.

“Oh no, MC, I really don’t think--”

“You deserve it, Ray. I won’t let you think otherwise.” Without another word, you approached the counter, Ray following you closely behind.

With icy scoops of the sweet dessert in hand, you both ambled down the promenade and admired the sights of the gaily store fronts. Distant echoes of buskers danced to your ears and you found yourself swaying with the melodies in your steps. A few times you looked over to Ray, who looked like a kid in a candy store with his obvious intrigue.

Scattered flower-beds along the stone pavement caught his attention with their vibrant petals and he felt tantalized enough to brush his finger along the the petals of a white daisy. Mint Eye’s garden succeeded in elegance ten-fold when compared to this place, and yet they seemed much prettier here.

His eyes sparkled with wonder and curiosity the further you strolled, but he only really glowed when beyond all of the outlets was a wide open field, devoid of any other soul. It was just you and him -- the perfect scenario.

Florae of many kinds scattered across the green blades of grass like splashes of paint on a canvas. Entranced by their beauty, you took him by the hand and led him through the field, finding a perfect patch to sit in and bathe in sunlight surrounded by colours of grace. You felt content, the back-burner-nagging of your conscience telling you “you can’t do this” finally silenced. It didn’t matter what was to become of this -- what truly mattered to you was that you were able to do this for Ray outside of the game’s limitations.

After all, you’d probably never get to do this again.

“Hey…” you mumbled, “have you ever made a flower crown?”

“A crown? From flowers? I don’t think I have.”

You sprang at the opportunity as you swiftly picked as many flowers around you as you could. “I’ll show you! They’re really easy, just watch what I do.”

He observed from over your shoulder as you intertwined the delicate stems of each flower into one another. There was a moment of peaceful silence as you both created your flower circlets, until he broke the quiet.

“MC… why did you want to do this for me?”

“Do what?”

“Take me out. Eating ice-cream with me, making crowns from flowers, just doing nice things for me. I haven’t done anything that deserves your praise.”

“Not everything has to be a prize, Ray. Most things should be done for someone out of love, not as a reward for good behaviour.” You saw his weaving slow, knowing your words were reaching him. “You know what I’m talking about… right?”

“If it wasn’t for Saviour, I wouldn’t be who I am today.”

You paused. “I’m sorry if I shouldn’t be saying this, but… is who you are right now really who you want to be?”

He turned his head and gazed deeply into your eyes. The wind swayed your hair across your face, making you appear even more so as an angel sent for him with your words of wisdom and love. His face showed an expression that couldn’t be put so easily into words. You reciprocated as you felt the same way, but made yourself busy again.

“Here, this is for you,” you smiled as you gently placed your finished work onto his head. It was a treasure shaped from orchids and gypsophila, together meaning ‘beauty, strength and undying love’.

Tenderly, he placed his own crown of ‘lily of the valley’ on your head, tucking a stray piece of hair behind your ear. “I shouldn’t be in love with you,” he muttered closely to your ear.

Every hair on your limbs were raised with anticipation as you felt his breath on your neck. He was so close, right there in front of you, alas he felt so far away no matter what you could say. The sweet, earthy perfume of the flowers surrounding you both filled your nostrils, bringing a new calmness to ease both your nerves.

His face hadn’t retreated from yours yet, and your heart was beating harder the more he lingered. Was this true affection? Or had the game somehow reprogrammed his character to act this way to compensate for the new turn of events? You eyed the shrinking space between your lips.

“Is this real?” the whispered words escaped your mouth.

At last, the gap was closed with a gentle kiss. His lips were chapped, but you didn’t mind. His cold hand found the side of your neck, soon cupping your cheek as you both grew passionate. All the uncertainty melted away with intimacy -- this was the realest thing you’d experienced with him, with any of them, and you didn’t want the moment to end.

…

Tip-toeing through the lantern-lit hallways, Ray led the way as he guided you back to your room while attempting to remain unseen. Once the door to your room was finally reached, he hurried you inside when he could hear footsteps approaching from a distance.

“You should go before someone sees you,” you urged him.

“I will… I’ll see you again soon, my Princess.” He smiled before swiftly planting one last kiss on your forehead, then closing the door.

You sighed in bliss, letting yourself twirl a few times before flopping onto your soft mattress. You knew that nothing could top what you had managed to do for Ray today, and the reward of euphoria from both parties was more than enough to satiate your desire to be with him. Having lost track of the time of day, you checked your phone for the first time in a number of hours.

Nothing could’ve made you sick to the stomach faster than what your screen displayed — a seemingly endless list of notifications full of missed texts, calls and chatrooms from the RFA. You quickly opened the app and saw the day had already reached the route’s first bridge. You didn’t need a mirror to know that your face had drained its colour. You covered your mouth.

“Crap… the participation target...”

You tried to be hopeful that the previous day’s progress would be enough to get you over, but you doubted it. You wished you could’ve said goodbye to Ray properly if you’d known this was going to happen. The guilt you’d worked to avoid came rushing back. Your throat closed up and your hands became clammy with anxiety. There was nothing more you could do. The damage was done.

You looked away from the screen as you unlocked the story mode, waiting for what was about to happen. Normally, you would leave your room and meet Mint Eye’s leader outside your door; the plot progressing forward.

So when a Believer entered your room unannounced, demanding your audience with the Saviour, you knew it was over.

☆