#rough rough rough but hey! we're trying in this household!

[reiverreturns]

i like to call this “i’ve written 3k worth of random rooster & phoenix scenes/drabbles and have only now figured out the vaguest understanding of a workable plot”

[the-firebird69]

Jack Daniels Whiskey - Honest Review

He said in the beginning he knows what this is because our son found the cure for monkeys from the monkeys and the elect of the indications and it said something about carbon and he believes that his charcoal than it is. It's what counteractivates a lot of antipsychotic medicine which is not good for you and even if it's stuck in your system it still works and her son and daughter said you can have Korean barbecue and it has the same effect and it's true or you can drink this you don't want to overdo it with the charcoal it is a carcinogen but every so often it won't do very much harm there's not a ton of it in Pepto it doesn't hurt our son that much but it does work and it has been working and it comes out of his system and he has to take some but boy this stuff really works and when they have the barrel they usually try and burn it about a half an inch and that's a lot and they brew out of it only one run each run it takes a lot of barrels they make a lot of them and now they're making them very big they're about 20 ft tall but still this stuff has it in it and it's an effective dose one or two shots should be good for the day and people have been doing it and said it works and he's genius and they're doing barbecue and that works too and it's a lot easier they say this stuff is kind of rough on the stomach and it's Jack Daniels everyone knows it's a tough whiskey to drink but if you need to relieve some pain and you need to stop the medicine that's what you do

Thor Freya

We're going to get these JD bottles and other whiskeys and we're going to take up and we know which ones no but we're going to check he said Southern comfort is no good it's ones that are darker and we know how to do it now

A cork

And yeah it's not spiced rum but please have some if you want to for crying out loud when is this barbecue some chicken for Christ's sake lol but yeah I get it

Bja

Hey we're getting on to it now and we know what JD means

A cork

I'm going to fly through this stuff man we're getting into it now we do see but it's down below and it's big ships and they exit 150 miles out they're 10 mi wide and 40 or 50 miles long there's a bunch of them in each tunnel probably like 10 but then you get down more it's a bigger tunnels and they're bigger okay they're probably 80 miles and those are pretty big okay one mile ships are big everybody these are Stone chips ghwb JC and Mary and they say the max but we don't know

Brad

Yeah they have something not many like 10 is true but they are at the others all of them and use these guys is cover and still are and using your war as cover and it's slaughter out there and also the stashes and caches in the West overall number is down 20% to date the pseudo empire is under attack in the west they're down 20% the nuclear bunkers are under attack they're down 30% and that's permanent by the way and the warlock cities are under strict attack by the pseudo empire they're down 10%, then the night has just begun. Hold on to everything because this is going to be a crazy weekend leadership is down to 10.5% and 16.5% by morning it's going to be around 9.5% and 15% the neighborhood is not going out there it's still in 97 households and holding bja might evacuate tomorrow and that's why I was saying to hold on to your hats because the forces out there are going to be small and they'll be trying to remillard and the clothes will have to fill in and he's going to run out of troops that can come here no he's going to have huge forces and pseudo empire are going to strike his forces and all over the world there will be a war between them it's going on possibly tomorrow and we are going to have to come here with Force right now it says thank you it is get a little frustrated we should have everybody sign up for interplanetary defense and should have mandatory terms of people have to serve and we're going to start to implement that shortly he wants to start a space debris program and have zigzag work something up and he has something he says and he's going forward with it he says it's not good and we need the people where we are and we're going to see it tomorrow he is pressing his to leave and he wants to leave too and get things going unfortunately if it sounds like to do the wagons East program and to attack us and our son and daughter say I did it over with and wipe them out and they won't be in the way anymore and taking up our damn time doing stupid s*** and we agree.

We're going to have an announcement at about earlier late morning coming up today

Thor Freya

And maybe more including Trump he might leave too

..

We were contemplating it yes

Trump is to leave and to leave the pseudo empire with the clothes so you have a real fight and he'll flood the place

Olympus

The battle reads that I'm in the battle but we leave first and then says that it's Tommy f but with ships so we do understand that that Trump doesn't have ships on the ocean or air or space and Trump has been fighting with the clones it is true we might be departing and we'll make a formal announcement tomorrow

Bja

[ravens-words]

Tarlos and the Vega Girls Day In.

AN: So, I wrote this before season 3, might have written it immediately after 2x13? Not really sure- and then I completely forgot about it lol. So I figured I might as well post it since it's been written.

"I'm sorry this is so last minute, TK."

TK smiled. "It's no problem, Cap," he assured Tommy, taking the girls' backpacks from her and putting them on the couch. She and the girls followed.

"If you need anything, please call me?"

"Cap, we're gonna ba fine."

She let out a breath, rubbing at her forehead like she's trying to fend off a headache. "Everything okay with you?"

Tommy sighed. "Yeah. I'm just- this new crew is something else."

"Aw, do you miss us?" He teased her, offering her a cup of coffee.

She took it, and huffed out a laugh. "Oh, absolutely."

"You, Nancy and Tim had a rough start, too, right? Maybe you just need some time," he said in an attempt to make her feel better.

"Maybe," she said with a small smile. "Thank you again for doing this."

He beamed. "Any time," he told her, "we love having the girls over."

"They love coming here, too. Carlos is very popular in our household," she told him dryly.

TK laughed.

.

After Tommy left, TK was left alone with the two girls. He wasn't exactly nervous, but this was the first time he would have to watch them alone for an extended period of time. Carlos was a lot better than him at it.

He sat on the far end of the couch, fiddling with his phone as they watched their morning cartoons. His phone rang, and he felt his lips stretch into a grin when he saw his boyfriend's name.

"Hey, you," he greeted him, and got two identical disapproving looks from the twins.

He lifted up a hand in surrender. "Hold on," he muttered quietly as he got up and went to the kitchen, "the girls take Abby Hatcher very seriously," he told Carlos, who huffed a laugh.

"Yeah, I know. Amphibia, too," Carlos exclaimed.

TK chuckled. "Yeah. How's your day been?" He asked as he poured himself a cup of coffee.

"Not much going on- just doing paperwork."

"Oh, I bet you're loving that."

Carlos groaned. "It's killing me, TK."

He laughed.

"Hey, do we need anything from the store?"

TK hummed and opened the fridge, scanning the shelves quickly. "Orange juice," he told him, "the girls love it- oh, and some toast, too."

"OJ and toast, got it. Alright, I'll see you in a couple of hours."

"Okay. I love you," he said with a smile, "stay safe."

"Love you, too, babe."

.

TK should have known suggesting a water balloon fight would not end well for him.

The girls ended up teaming up on him, and Evie in particular had a strong right arm and freakishly good aim. TK had planned to go easy on them, but if he was being honest, now he was wishing they would go easy on him.

He'd been trying, with very little success, to get them to stop the game and go inside, but they weren't done torturing him yet apparently because all his latest suggestion got him was a water balloon to the gut.

God, he couldn't wait for Carlos to get home.

.

When Carlos got home, he was surprised to find it empty.

"TK?"

That was when he heard the girls' shrieks.

"That's cheating!"

"All's fair in love and war, Iz," his boyfriend called out, and this was followed by some laughter mixed with some more screaming from the twins.

Carlos put the grocery bags on the counter and wandered outside.

He didn't alert the three to his presence, merely stood back and watched his boyfriend run after the girls, hose in hand and spraying them with water.

He took a few seconds to just watch TK. His grin was wide and his cheeks were flushed-

happiness was a good look on him.

His gaze wandered down, to the white shirt clinging to his torso, and Carlos felt an urgent need to touch him.

He did his best to ignore it, seeing as the girls were there and there was really nothing he could do about it.

"Having fun without me?"

Three heads snapped up to look at him, and seconds later, the girls were running towards him.

He was soaking wet by the time they let him go, and he saw TK stifling a laugh at his expense as Carlos' shirt clung to his sides uncomfortably.

Carlos, without taking his eyes off TK, who was slowly making his way towards him, addressed Evie and Izzy. "Girls, why don't you two go change? I'll start on lunch soon."

They both nodded immediately and TK huffed. "You didn't even have to repeat it once."

Carlos grinned smugly.

Once the girls disappeared inside, Carlos wasted no time in closing the distance between him and TK.

TK came willingly, a lazy smile on his face as he let Carlos drag him into his arms for those last two steps. His cold arms settled around Carlos' neck, and he shivered. Carlos' own arms wrapped around his waist, and he pulled him close, not even caring about how wet his own shirt was now.

He kissed him, slow and sweet, and responded with equal desire when TK deepened it. TK's nails scratched at the hairs at the base of his neck, and Carlos pulled him closer still, his hands moving down to rest on his sides now, under the shirt. "Missed you today," he muttered against his lips.

TK pulled away and smiled fondly, one hand on Carlos' cheek. "Missed you too," he said quietly, then shivered again.

Carlos pulled him in again, the kiss deeper, and got lost in it. It didn't matter that they were both soaking wet and shivering now, all that mattered was this- them.

"Carlos," TK muttered against his lips, "the girls."

"They're-"

"Right here," the twins said, and when they looked at them, they had the exact look of exasperation on their faces.

Carlos blushed, disentangling himself from TK. "I thought you girls were changing."

"We need towels," Evie informed them.

Carlos turned to look at TK, who looked to be struggling against the urge to laugh, and rolled his eyes as he grabbed his hand. "Let's go get the girls some towels."

"Yes, sir," his boyfriend drawled.

"And maybe make some spaghetti for lunch?"

The girls cheered.

[harlowhockeystick]

Blue Christmas - Sam Kiszka

Sam doesn’t know how he supposed to get through his first Christmas without the love of his life not by his side.

contains: angst, heartbreak, descriptions of a rough breakup, the good ol holiday blues, gn reader (let me know if i have made a mistake).

word count: 1,327

12 fics of Christmas

tagging: @theweightofstardust @drei-mrssvechii @thecoldwind @snidneycrabby @multistann

Sam didn’t know what to do. Every day he mopes around his house, dragging his feet and his eyelids heavy. Limbs weak and throat dry every day. Sam wakes up with little to no motivation to do anything. All because of Y/N. The lovely, beautiful, bubbly, inspiring Y/N.

But that is not the case. See, to Sam, a part of him did die. He was head over heels in love with Y/N. He'd go to the moon and back if they asked. So he just did not understand why Y/N wanted to leave. For the past three weeks he had been pondering that very question, trying to figure out if there was something else that he could have done better.

Thanksgiving had come and gone. Sam felt odd, not having Y/N next to his side at the dinner table. He promised himself that he wouldn’t get on social media and see what she was up to that day. But that promise was broken. Y/N was with their family, posting pictures on instagram and snapchat and looking seemingly happy. Their smile was bright and their eyes were twinkling just like they always did. Biting his lip Sam turns off his phone and leaves it in his room for the rest of the day, not wanting to hurt himself further.

Thanksgiving had come and gone. Sam felt odd, not having Y/N next to his side at the dinner table. He promised himself that he wouldn’t get on social media and see what she was up to that day. But that promise was broken. Y/N was with their family, posting pictures on instagram and snapchat and looking seemingly happy. Their smile was bright and their eyes were twinkling just like they always did. Biting his lip Sam turns off his phone and leaves it in his room for the rest of the day, not wanting to hurt himself further.

Now that Sam is back home again, this time around Christmas. The Kiszka household is decorated in colors of red and green, tinsel of silver and gold hanging from the doorways and the limbs on the fake tree. But the colors and the happy yuletide cheer does not match what he feels inside. Sam was never one to get holiday depression or one to feel lonely during the holidays, only because he always had Y/N with him.

Sam had known Y/N since he could remember. The two became a couple during the junior year of highschool. They were inseparable from that point on, going everywhere and doing everything together. Y/N and Sam grew up together, and he was certain that he would spend the rest of his days with Y/N. but it was only just a few weeks ago that they said they didn’t feel the same.

“Hey Sam, get ready, we're going out for dinner.” his older brother, Jake, called out. Sam took a deep sigh, leaning his head back against the pillows. Staring up at the ceiling he wanted nothing more than for the mattress he was laying on top of to swallow him whole.

But he eventually gathers himself and changes clothes, running a brush through his hair so it doesn’t look like he had been laying in bed for most of the day. Grabbing his coat he laces up his boots, walking down the stairs where he met his family. He didn’t say anything, he looked, and kind of acted, like a zombie.

The drive to the restaurant was quiet. Not much was being said amongst the kiszka family until they sat down for dinner. It was obvious to everyone in the building that he was sad. The waitress even asked him if he was okay when she took his order.

And just when he was starting to feel better, have a light grin on his face and laugh every now and then, Y/N walked through the door. He immediately regretted picking the seat that faced the front door. He made eye contact with them, and when they walked to their table he couldn’t take his eyes off of them.

It was like he fell in love for the first time all over again. Everything about them was magic to Sam. It took Josh nearly pushing him out of his chair to get Sam to stop staring. When the plates were being taken up and the bill was being paid, conversations being held at the table, Sam was still glaring at Y/N from across the restaurant.

When the family got ready to go, the devil on Sam's shoulder was whispering into his ear. And he listened.

His body took over before his brain could think. His feet moved ahead of his mind and before he, or his brothers, could stop him. And the next thing they know, he was standing in front of Y/N and their friends. His family stood in the entryway, watching as he made the boldest move of his life thus far.

“Y/N?” he spoke, his voice cracking a little. Y/N’s friends sat in shock, they didn’t think he’d have the balls to walk over there. Though, they knew there was no bad blood between the two. They just didn’t expect this to happen.

“Hi Sam,” they said, turning in their chair to face him properly. Looking over at the others seated at the table, then looking back up at Sam, it’s evident he did not plan this. But, they didn’t plan it either. Out of all the restaurants in town, why in the world did they have to pick this one?

“Can i uh, can i talk to you?” he asked, his voice nearly hoarse. He was so nervous. Nervous and unprepared. He walked over here and he didn’t even know what he was going to say. He just wanted to see them, up close, face to face and not on his phone screen.

Much to his surprise, Y/N agrees. Walking together they settle out on the patio, the very cold patio. They stare at each other for a moment, neither of them knowing what to say. The Christmas lights leaving a faint yellow and red glow upon them, the light snow covering the ground they were standing on. It was like they were in a hallmark movie. A very sad hallmark movie.

“Why are you here, sam? Why am I standing in the cold out here?” Y/N’s voice was desperate. Begging for answers they weren’t even sure Sam had.

“I just wanted to see you, Y/N.” they dip their shaking heads and laugh. A pitiful one. They weren’t mocking Sam in any form, they were just shocked at how this was their reality. As they were about to turn around and walk into the building, they stopped when Sam spoke up again. “Why did you break up with me? Give me the real reason, no bullshit. Why are you making me spend the holidays alone?”

Y/N sighed. Putting their hands in the pockets of their coat, they held their emotions together before answering. “I need time to grow, Sam. be on my own for a little bit. I don’t hate you, or anything, I just wanna be my own person for a little while. Do things by myself. It’s nothing against you, at all I promise.”

The words are hard for Sam to hear. In the back of his head he knew it was for the best. And he needed time to grow as well. The breakup was for the best and they knew it. Sam just didn’t want to admit it.

“I love you Sam, and I always will. Maybe in the future we can reconnect. But right now both of us need to grow and be our own person.” It's hard for Sam to swallow the truth pill, but he does. Y/N presses a kiss to his cheek and gives him a hug around his neck. Before they part he gives her a kiss on the cheek and a lingering look in the eyes.

“Merry Christmas, Sam.”

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

- thank you for reading! i hope you enjoyed. i don't think this one is that good, but nonetheless i still hope you enjoyed. feedback is always appreciated as well!

xo, j

[owo--bot]

Loyal as a Dog // Sanzu Haruchiyo x Reader

Chapters 4-6

wc: 4k

Tags: slowburn (the literal slowest), friends to lovers, coming of age, hurt & comfort, fluff, light and dark themes, plot heavy

TW // codependency, they're both semi toxic, underage drinking, obsessive behavior, untreated mental health issues,

Chapter Four: Hands of a Creator

I'd love to have the hands of a creator. One that creates beautiful things; may that be bonds, a future, or even a foundation for others. But when I look at my hands, they appear filthy. Are they really mine? The only meaning my life offers is to hold those dear to me close, even if I suffocate them in the process. Even if everything becomes black. Even if my hands don't look like mine. Even if it hurts.

What I'm trying to say is that these hands are that of;

A murky protector.

What I love may never die.

What I love will always be safe.

Trample on the ones I love.

And I will shatter your creator's hands.

-

"Happy-"

Bang bang bang

Your typical Sunday morning; passed out beaten and bruised. Smothering your roommate as usual, too exhausted to wake up with the rest of the world. The pounding erupting from the door was an alarm neither of you asked for. An alarm that failed to wake you. Peeling your hands off, Sanzu shoved you awake.

"Get the door."

You whined before sitting up groggily, hearing three more firm bangs.

"Waaait." You called, crawling out of the futon and teetering to the door.

"Hey ya bastards."

The dark-haired visitor grinned, showing his set of canines as he flung the door open further. You stepped aside, rubbing your eyes as the boy welcomed himself in.

"Oh, hey Mr. Baji. What are ya doing here?"

"What, your captain can't check up on ya?"

"What happened?" Sanzu joined, blanketed in a serious demeanor.

"Are ya really going to make me repeat myself?"

The captain barked, as he further made himself at home; taking a seat in the kitchen while using the table as a footrest. His eyes shifted from Sazu over to you.

"What, you two finally get sick of each other?" He grinned, tapping his nose.

"No way! I got these from keeping Sanzu safe."

"Still playing guard dog huh?" Baji grinned as he humored you.

"Woof!" You replied.

"Don't do that." Sanzu shot back at you.

Baji let out a slight chuckle as he leaned forward in the chair.

"Well, it looks like you two are fine."

Baji stood from his seat, starting towards the door. With one foot out the door, he looked back momentarily and asked.

"Hey, you two seen the news lately?"

"Nope!"

"Ah, well, it wouldn't hurt to check it out."

"Thanks, Mr. Baji!"

"It's Baji, later."

The captain waved his hand back at you, just as abruptly as he'd entered, he'd left.

Sanzu narrowed his eyes towards the outdated television set, shuffling towards it and immediately clicking on the power, sifting through the stations.

"Why the news? We're not that old yet, right Sanzu?"

The blonde didn't respond as he continued crouching in front of the screen, while you began with the routine penalty. Folding, folding, folding, lugging, lugging, lugging, before too long the futons were placed neatly within the closet.

"Look."

Sanzu signaled you over to the television, pointing to words cycling through at the bottom of the screen.

"I should've cracked his skull open." Sanzu tsked.

-Politician beaten and robbed: suspects are a woman supposedly around 18 years of age as well as an unidentified accomplice. Details of the woman's appearance are listed below, while there are still no verifications on the second suspect. If you have any information please call us now at xxx-xxx-xxxx.-

"Is that supposed to be me?"

You held your hand to your mouth trying to suppress the outburst of laughter.

"They didn't even get my age right."

"Shut up, it might be vague but that looks like you."

Sanzu pointed at the rough sketch in the bottom corner of the screen. There was a long pause before he looked back as you spoke up.

"Well… What should I do?"

"Your hair, start with that."

"Okey-dokey boss!"

You agreed, motioning to him with a salute.

-

Ding dong

A bell chimed upon entering the general store. You were met with isles upon isles of goods, ranging from groceries to your everyday household necessities. A woman greeted you from behind the counter as you strolled along to the section labeled as Hair Products.

Your eyes scanned the shelves, stocked full of hair dye products along with bleach, toners, and anything else you might need. Scooping up two separate boxes you spun around all too eagerly.

"Hey, hey! Which one?"

"It doesn't matter, just pick one."

"Aww come on Sanzu! Hey, let's dye your hair too. What if we got matching colors?"

You shook the boxes of dye attempting to hold in your excitement. It was pretty rare the two of you got to spend money on things other than the fundamentals so yes, you were bubbling over at the seams.

"We don't have extra money to blow."

Sanzu snatched the second box of dye from your hand, throwing it back on the shelf.

"I didn't hear a no? We could always steal it."

"No."

Watching the blonde walk-off, once again you pledged to another carefree ambition: getting Sanzu to dye his hair with you– eventually.

"Ah well, he still picked out the color."

You looked down at the remaining box in your hand, letting out a concerningly sinister laugh. Merry as could be, you ventured back to the register, totaling the purchase and giving Sanzu back the additional change.

"Thank you, please come again."

Ding dong

-

With the apartment coming into view, your excitement continued welling up. Turning towards Sanzu you held out the bag containing the dye.

"Hey! Wanna help?"

"I'm dropping you off."

"Boo! What for?"

"Meeting someone for our next job."

"Okay well, have fun Boss!"

You waved at him as the two of you parted ways.

"Come back and get me before the meeting tonight, please!"

"I'll think about it."

Sanzu waved his hand upwards as he departed, the slightest smile tugged at his lips.

"Thank you!"

Trotting up the stairs at full speed you trailed down the path leading to your room. Patting yourself up and down, frantically you looked for your key until you heard the slightest jingle resonating from your neck. Accompanied by a sigh of relief you removed the chain and unlocked the door.

Flinging the products out of your bag you set off to the bathroom, pumped up for the abrupt change to your appearance.

After about an hour of bleaching, washing, dying, and washing again it was finally done. Looking in the mirror you faced the final result of your work. A thin line curved at your lips, splint, and bandages aside you were delighted.

Now all that was left was waiting for Sanzu to come back and get you. Bajis' squad was set to have a meeting tonight, so long as Sanzu came you'd be able to get there. There was a time where he tried giving you directions, which only resulted in you ending up at the opposing section of the city. It had to be some kind of feat passed down through your family's genealogy because it was unfathomable how terrible your sense of direction was.

Standing there, looking back at yourself in the mirror, an uncomfortable feeling began creeping over you.

"I should clean."

As though your life depended on it you made a beeline towards the kitchen. Opening one of the cupboards you yanked out an assortment of sponges and solutions, prepping the house for an intensive scrub down.

Spray, wipe, scrub, dust, spray, wipe, scrub, dust,

…

spray, wipe, scrub, dust, spray, wipe, scrub, dust.

…

Spray, wipe, scrub, dust, spray, wipe, scrub, dust

…

The sun had begun to set, knowing that at any moment Sanzu would be walking through that door.

At any moment.

At any moment.

At any moment.

At-

Knock, knock

Tumbling to the door you swung it open with a smile.

"Welcome back!-...?"

To your surprise, you were met with a boy sporting a choppy blonde and black undercut: First Division vice-captain, Chifuyu Matsuno.

"... Y/n?"

"Ah, Yessir!"

"Oh, sorry you just look- never mind… Something happened with Sanzu."

...

Clasping your hands in front of your face, you replied with a nervous smile.

"I see."

-

Chapter Five: Burns the Rest

I have a love for many things; the rising sun, handknit scarves, cheap meals among friends, cute things and scary things, words of affirmation, stray cats, the ladybug who landed on my window, convenience stores at night, the elderly couple next door, that crack on the sidewalk, bonds stronger than life.

All things bear a potential for love.

So I express my love for oh so many things.

But this fixation called loyalty tugs at my chest, what do I do when the things that I love collide.

It's simple really.

Because I feel it, tugging at my chest;

In my heart where many are loved, it knows which is strongest.

And burns all the rest.

-

The sun had begun its descent below the horizon, enveloping the streets of Tokyo in a golden hue. The humming of an engine prattled on as the daylight became scarce. Giving a chummy pat to the boy's shoulder, as he further adjusted himself onto the leather seat. Letting out an exaggerated laugh you followed behind, securing your arms around his stomach.

"You seriously had me going there for a second Chifuyu."

The vehicle took off leaving you in a short bout of laughter, only due to the state of ease your psyche mellowed into. Moments earlier the world was uprooted and nearly ceased to exist, but!— Chifuyu had explained Baji and Sanzu were going at it again, nothing life-threatening and something that was by no means a rare occurrence. It'd typically be initiated through some minor dispute like buying the wrong soda and from there it'd quickly progress into a barking match; in rare cases becoming physical. Looking back only one particular incident came to mind that could be considered 'serious', in which Sanzu initiated a fight with members from another gang and promptly got his ass kicked. Baji was far from thrilled, you could've sworn his pupils were stained red.

"Stop picking fights you can't win."

Was the captain's one and only warning.

But hey, even the happiest of families need to bicker once in a while and your squad was no exception. In the grand scheme of things it just proved how close Toman really was.

This was just the way your family was.

The wind scratched against your cheeks with a burning sensation as the bike weaved around each corner and street, until finally—

You had arrived.

The lot was cluttered with bikes, parked this way and that along the weathered asphalt. The vehicle you had accompanied came to a firm stop as you released Chifuyu from your clutches. The rumbling of the exhaust was replaced with an inaudible mess of voices, but the shouting of your captain reigned dominant.

"Huh, they're still going?"

Chifuyu commented, turning to what looked to be the majority of the First Division. Packed together they were gathered around an opening in the middle of the lot.

Stepping down off the bike you approached the huddle of bodies. Peeking above the crowd you got a glimpse of Baji, standing tall within the center of the group. Sifting through the mass your gaze finally fell to your roommate; positioned on the asphalt. His face was twisted in a scowl, gritting his teeth as he looked up at Baji.

Passing by the last wall of people you stepped into the inner ring.

Normally it's just a screaming match, yeah here and there it'd get physical but nothing too intense.

Nothing too intense.

You watched the scene unfolding before you, a discomposing feeling blurred your senses. It just didn't make sense. Sanzu was beaten down, why? Your head buzzed as you tried making sense of it;

Did Baji do this?

No, Baji's not a bad person, he wouldn't go this far.

Then why?

Baji is a good person, then why?

He couldn't have done that.

Right?

Your head spun, jamming pieces together that didn't fit. There were too many contradictions bouncing around as you felt the sensation of your brain short-circuiting. Yeah, reasoning and logic weren't your forte so how about this; no more thinking— only doing. You broke off from the group and headed into the den of wolves.

"Baji, what's your problem?"

You questioned closing the gap, only sparing inches between your faces.

"Back down Y/n."

The captain barked at you, baring his canines. It wouldn't be odd if one mistook him for a feral dog, his eyes were devoid of any compassion.

Your hand motioned towards the collar of his jacket, before making contact an unrelenting hand curled around your wrist.

"You listening? I said back down." Baji's grip tightened, as he spat out words that seeped with venom.

Sanzu glared up at you wearing a similar expression; another untamed presence. His face was littered with cuts and bruises, which only further contorted at the sight of you.

"Stay out of this," Sanzu hissed.

Upon his demand; you untensed your hand, allowing it to fall from Bajis' hold. Without a word you returned to the group, begrudgingly taking on the title of a bystander.

"You really like making me repeat myself don't ya? So I'll ask you one more time, what the hell were you doing?"

"..."

"Oh?"

Obediently you stood there in silence, without so much as blinking you took in the ugly scene derailing before you. Your thoughts teetered on the brink of nothingness, as the seams of your family unraveled.

"You're done, get the hell outta my sight."

Baji shifted his back towards the blonde, who'd been left there, continuously gritting down on his teeth in a silent rage. The group spilled outwards upon Baji's dismissal, leaving only two.

"What happened?" You asked.

The boy's soft features contrasted with the scrapes, bumps, and bruises that marked him up and down. Reaching out you hoped to help him up, but instead, your hand was met with a bitter slap.

"Don't touch me."

"Yeah... Sorry."

Silence washed over you, waiting for Sanzu to say anything, to do anything.

Anything.

And so he did, standing up he turned his back towards you, towards Baji, towards the First Division, heading off and becoming swallowed up by the night.

"Hey, that's not fair. This– sucks for me too. Y'know?"

You bit down hard on your thumb, an anxious response to the question of: what do I do? Clearly out of touch with your surroundings a voice broke through.

"And you, know your damn place."

The seething captain strutted up behind you, granting a firm slap to the back of your head. The sudden impact shoved you back into reality, hinting at the slightest traces of a smile you answered:

"Yes, Mr. Baji."

"It's Baji."

"You got it, Mr. Baji."

This is only temporary—bad things can't last forever.

They never last forever.

And also, because–

You're a good person.

Right?

Mr. Baji.

-

Chapter Six: Unraveling

It's unraveling

And unraveling

And unraveling

And unraveling

I need to mend it back together—

But

I don't know how to sew.

-

Your fingertips lingered over the handle, a spark of hope entwined in your stomach. The scent of citrus hit your nose as you opened the door; oh yeah– It was only a few hours ago when you scrubbed this place top to bottom.

Yeah, that was only… A few hours ago.

In two quick movements, you slipped off your shoes and flicked on the lights; peering forward into the cramped living space.

It's empty.

...

Raising your hands you inhaled sharply, giving your cheeks a firm slap.

"Boss'll make fun of me if he comes back and sees me all depressed. Besides, it’ll all fix itself– that's how things always work."

So as usual you laid out both futons, giving enough space between the two that you deemed sufficient. You played out the routine comments Sanzu would make; threatening to chain your futon down outside. Finishing that thought you pushed the beds apart a few more inches, although there wasn't much more room you could give in your defense.

"Everything will work out."

-

The creaking of the floorboards broke through the murmurs falling from your lips. The rowdiest of sleepers was carelessly sprawled out on top of each futon. As a hand rested on the back of your head consciousness tugged at your senses. Opening your eyes a whisper met you through the silence.

"Sorry," Sanzu mumbled.

"Yeah," you replied.

A goofy smile sprouted on your face as you turned over, desperate hands reached out and clung to that eternally damaged face. It was a silent agreement that he wouldn't complain until morning.

-

I'm not in the First Division anymore.

Is what you thought came out of those battered lips. But really, did your ears go on strike or something? Because you kept hearing variations of things like

I got moved

I'm not coming back

I got reassigned

How many different ways could your senses deceive you? Quite a few apparently, because no matter how the words were arranged they all stated the same thing.

"I'm done repeating myself."

Sanzu slid his plate across the table, indicating he was done.

"I'm sorry! But seriously, something weird's going on. My ears aren't working right."

You tried grasping at any excuse that'd allow you to continue refusing the reality that was oh so wrong.

"No, you're just being difficult."

"Yeah, maybe but– I just don't like being separated, ya'know? So I wanna get moved too." You gave a cheesy grin as your hands clamped together with overwhelming enthusiasm.

"Do you like Baji?"

"Of course! I have nothing but respect for Mr. Baji."

"Then stay with him, you have no reason to switch divisions."

Sanzu's statement came out cold, denying your request. This can't be right. Can it?

…

An uncomfortable sensation swept over your skin. What's this empty feeling? Is this it? Did your usefulness wither away...?

"Did ya do it so you could get away from me? Is that why ya started that fight? Because you-"

You fired off; loaded question after question, the unrelenting tone you'd taken on congested the room. Everything was edging into a blur until an unrelenting hand coiled around your wrist, yanking it across the table. The intensity of Sanzu's gaze burned into you like an owner scolding their dog.

"Don't."

Sanzu's tone was stern, pulling you back to some sense of rationality even if it was induced through fear.

"Sorry…"

With newfound embarrassment, the gears in your brain came to a gradual stop as Sanzu released his hold on you.

"Besides, it won't be all the time. I'll be with you the rest of the time, alright?"

"I'm still really, really not happy about this but… Okay."

You shrugged still a bit on the deflated side but there wasn't much more you could say. His hand brushed against your cheek bringing your gaze up from the floor back into his soft eyes.

"I always know what's best, right?"

"Yes!"

That's right, Sanzu always knows best–no matter how much it hurts, the fact– no, the law of your world was;

He always knows best .

"Good, now hurry up. There's somewhere we need to check out."

"You got it, Boss!"

In a few swift movements you rinsed off the dishes and within a few steps, you readied yourself within the cramped bathroom.

-

Rubbing your hands together, the wind brushed up against your skin; reminding you that winter was on its way. Dim lighting drifted atop the playground, appearing ever so ominous at this hour. The swings were lonely as they creaked in intervals, the wind being their sole guide. Of all places, this one seemed right: at this exact time, with this exact atmosphere, everything existed so perfectly.

"Our next job is one week from now."

Leaning back on the park bench, the boy's words were accompanied by a subtle mist hitting the Autumn air.

"That was fast, huh, so whaddya we gotta do?"

"We're robbing a house. Owners are going on vacation."

"Vacation…?"

"Yeah, guy who hired us is a scumbag. Wants half the cut but I think thirty'll do."

"Hmm, are they rich?"

"Didn't sound like it, just some mediocre family."

"Sheesh, talk about harsh. Employer must have some grudge, don'tcha think Boss?"

"Doesn't matter, but look."

Sanzu pointed upwards in the distance, presenting a row of houses nestled along the quiet streets.

"That one in the middle's where we'll be going."

"Oh, so coming here wasn't a date."

Equipped with a foolish grin you stared up at your next target. How….

Ordinary.

Light spilled out from the wall panels giving you a view of a shallow set of stairs accompanied by wooden fencing lining the outside of each home. Staring at the house you wondered if there would ever be a day where you'd come to live in something like that. Something deemed as; just ordinary. But then again you'd be happiest if nothing changed, if things could be the same forever– that would be the best life.

Your fingers tingled against the frigid wind, blowing hot air against them you tried regaining some warmth.

"Hey Mr. Sanzu, keep my hands warm."

You grinned stating your demand, holding your hands up to the boy who was seemingly unbothered by the chill air.

"You have pockets don't you."

Sanzu resumed leaning back on the bench as his gaze rested on the starless sky.

"Nope!"

Jumping up off the bench you shed your jacket, forsaking it along with the pockets it possessed to the ground. With an ‘I’m so clever’ Esque smirk you pointed to your defense announcing:

"See."

Sanzu shrugged in response, holding out his hand which you were quick to snatch up. Upon settling back onto the bench, you smiled plopping your head against Sanzu's shoulder.

"If you ever leave me, I'll be done for."

"Yeah, I know."

"So never leave me, okay?"

"Yeah."

His hand felt warm within your own, warm in body and warm in soul. Your arms were left barren to the weather but your mind was occupied elsewhere; the feeling of his skin against yours, the heat he gave off, how rigid his shoulder felt, and how you wanted things to stay like this forever.

That's right, now nothing else mattered, as long as things stayed like this forever.

Especially not the home you'd soon intrude, nor the family it'd affect.

Yeah

It doesn't matter.

It doesn't?

Matter?

...

I wonder what vacations are like.

[jaffacakerebellion]

Hey it's Eggy Anon calling and may I just start by thanking you for the nickname, love it! I think you might indeed be on your way to becoming the tumblr egg guy but I'd consider it an honour! :D 

 

I really enjoyed your reply and that egg custard tart you described sounds amazing and it's definitely my mission now to try one! All those dishes you mentioned got me wondering if eggs have a significant role in British food culture? I never thought about it even though I lived there for a few years and also became a little obsessed with eggs. I would eat a bunch of them daily and my egg cooking game improved massively. And when it comes to british food in general, I really enjoyed every british dish I tried despite its bland reputation (deep fried mars bar was pushing it a little ngl). Though I did eat the vegetarian versions of most dishes so I probably didn't get the most authentic experience.

Eggy Anon my beloved! <3

I think eggs are quite important in British cuisine because basically they've been quite an accessible staple in Britain for hundreds of years. If you think about the geography of the UK, in terms of food, the only protein you can really get are meat from livestock, dairy products (which are also quite fatty and therefore good for keeping you going), fish and eggs. Eggs are way easier to get your hands on than fish (which you fish for), meat (which you have to butcher and cook/ preserve/ prepare), and dairy products (require milking and then preparation- cheese can take years).

A lot of British food is meat, potatoes and other veg because that's what we're able to get, basically. But the different parts of the country and the class structure have meant that people have adapted their diets differently.

For example, in largely-dispersed farming communities in the UK, up until less than 50 years ago it was regular for households to make 'pottage' for the winter, which is basically where you place a pot on top of a fire/stove which never goes out for the whole winter, and you just throw in any food you can get your hands on. Grains, vegetables, any meat you can catch, beans. This would just cook continually to avoid mould or germs or whatever, which would eat up fuel but that would just keep the house warm, too. It would be a good idea for the communities to keep chickens around this time to keep a continual supply of eggs or meat if they needed it. I think it was an idea brought over by the anglo-saxons, if I'm not mistaken.

Back in the middle ages, it was very hard for people to get protein and the average person would eat 2-3lbs of rough wheat & rye bread per day (as in, the bread would contain both wheat and rye). If you kept chickens during this time, you'd be way better off I imagine, although this is just my personal speculation.

Britain has many wonderful herbs which can create interesting flavours, although they're not really used much anymore. I mean, dandelion and burdock and wild garlic aren't as valuable as they were because Britain starting colonising other places and straight up thieving some wonderful herbs and spices from places like India and the West Indies, and creating plantations for the things they liked and wanted more of. Once we realised that we could totally fuck the rest of the world over and take whatever the fuck we want then we got things like ginger and tamarind and cumin, and drinks like tea and coffee, and damn the consequences. This is very much reflected in British cuisine.

I've been meaning to read 'The Medieval Cookbook' by Maggie Black, it's got lots of wonderful recipes inside which really contextualise a slice of culinary history and help us open up that slice of history because of the things we know people had access to, due to those recipes left behind. Really, textiles and food and other things found in the home, once looked at closely, can tell you more about history than documents and treaties and speeches. An Aran Isle sweater or a Welsh Love Spoon can tell you more about the geography, culture and history of Aran or Wales than a historian could put into words, honestly.

So yeah, a place is just made up of the things it's got and the people there.

Anyway, here's one of Maggie's recipes which she's put on the internet which I'd totally try:

Rose pudding:

Ingredients

Petals of one white rose

4 level tbsp rice flour or cornflour

275ml milk

50g caster sugar

3/4 tsp ground cinnamon

3/4 tsp ground ginger

575ml single cream

Pinch of salt

10 dessert dates, stoned and finely chopped

1 tbsp chopped pine nut kernels

Method

Take the petals off the rose one by one. Blanch the petals in boiling water for 2 minutes, then press them between several sheets of soft kitchen paper and put a heavy flat weight on top to squeeze them dry. (They may look depressingly greyish but blending will improve the dish’s colour.) Put the rice flour or cornflour in a saucepan, and blend into it enough of the milk to make a smooth cream. Stir in the remaining milk. Place the pan over low heat and stir until the mixture starts to thicken. Put in a (non-medieval!) electric blender, and add the sugar, spices and rose petals. Process until fully blended, then add and blend in the cream and salt. Turn the mixture into a heavy saucepan, and stir over very low heat, below the boil, until it is the consistency of softly whipped cream. Stir in most of the chopped dates and pine nut kernels and stir for 2 more minutes. Turn into a glass or decorative bowl and cool. Stir occasionally while cooling to prevent a skin forming. Chill. Just before serving decorate with the remaining dates and nuts.