#since he will surely ask to search to take me in the scheme

[what-am-i-outside-my-google-tabs]

"so, what's the last anime you watched?"

"ever heard of Boku No Pico?"

[xetlynn]

Until Dawn- By Your Side: Chapter One, Blackwood Pines

(Josh Washington X reader)

[Prologue] [One] [Two]

Ever since that day I’ve rarely looked Jessica in the eyes. I’ll talk to her like normal, she’ll come into my room to bother me but I never initiate anything anymore. I was pretty disgusted by her actions. Same with everyone else’s. I’ve gotten extremely close with Sam because of everything too. Her, Chris and I check in with Josh a lot.

Mainly me, they just text me asking for updates since they don’t see him as often as I do. My parents have even been getting annoyed with my “behavior.” How I’m never home, barely doing my homework and treating Jessica poorly. I’m not meaning to. I really want to look at my sister and not see a bad friend, but looking back on my pictures with Beth and Hannah it’s difficult. Knowing Hannah was devastated from what they did to her, it being a stupid prank or not.

And when Josh told me his plan to have everyone come up for this winter I was skeptical on if it would be a good idea. “Are you sure, we haven’t gone up unless it was for a search party, my love.” I run my fingers through his hair, he smiles softly up at me. He was laying his head on my chest, his arms wrapped around my torso.

“My sisters would want to have fun up there. Like we always have.” He kisses my collarbone. “Are you sure there’s no other reason?” I question him, his nose twitches and I knew I already caught him in his lies. “What other reason would there be?” He decides to ask a question in return. I stare down at him with a straight face, he lifts himself off of me.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” His brows furrow and I crack a smile, grabbing his arm. “I know you better than that, my love.” I pull him down to kiss him on his lips. “What are you scheming?” Kissing him again. “I can’t believe you caught me that quick.” He entraps me in between his arms, his body laying flat on mine. I hear him take a deep breath, I knew he was wondering if he should tell me or not. Knowing him since we were children I’ve gotten to observe every little thing about him. Something he’s done with me too.

“I just maybe want to get it out of them, that they’re guilty for it.” He finally whispers out, I stay silent for a moment. I can hear his heart beat start to quicken and before he panics I speak up. “How can I help?”

I sat on the bus with Sam, she gave me one of her earbuds as we listened to what’s on her device. It’s the radio talking about the Washington twins. I notice her stare out the window. My body stiffens slightly, it’s never easy hearing updates about the twins and it be nothing new. Nothing good. Then she clicks a button switching to a video of my boyfriend. Of Josh. I smile at the sight of his face.

“Well hello friends and fans… alright let’s do that again.” He goes back up to the camera, not really zooming it in, beginning to talk once again with the same intro. “Alright. Well hello friends and fans! It’s beyond awesome to have you guys all back this year. First off, I gotta say I am super excited to welcome all my pals back to the annual Blackwood winter getaway!” He does a little cheer. “So, um… let me just let you know, let’s take a moment to address the elephant in the room for a second…” His mood switches. “I know you’re all probably worried about me and I know it’s gonna be tough on all of us going back after what happened last year, but I just want you all to know, it means… it means so much to me that we’re doing this. And I know it would mean so much to Hannah and Beth that we’re all still here together, y’know thinking of them. I really want to spend some quality time with each and every one of you and share moments we’ll never forget. For the sake of my sisters, you know?” He gives his speech, I lean into Sam further and further as I listen to him. I feel her laugh at me a little bit but I can’t help it. “Okay… so! Let’s party like we’re fucking porn stars, okay?! And make this one trip we’ll never forget, alright? Yes!” He pumps his fists up in the air. I scrunch my nose because of his wording but Sam and I both snicker at it quietly.

When the bus finally stops at Blackwood Pines, Sam and I get out together and begin to walk forward while looking around. We were told to meet here by Chris like we have many times before. “Weird, looks like we’re before him.” I smile, twirling around. She opens the gate for both of us. “Surprising. I feel like we’re the last usually.” She huffs, I hum in agreement. We then hear a noise behind us. “Hello?” Sam calls out. “Someone there?” I ask out, furrowing my eyebrows. Squinting, checking if I could possibly see anything.

After not getting anything in response we continue on. I keep checking behind us though. Thinking maybe someone was there, playing a prank on us.

Once we get to the gate there’s a note taped onto it. “Gate’s busted, climb over. -Chris.” I read out. “So he is here and didn’t meet up like we agreed.” I cross my arms, irritated. “I wonder why.” Sam whispers. We try to open the gate still but nothing budges. I sigh and head over to the rocky wall of the fence. Sam right behind me.

“I’ll boost you.” I tell her, jokingly. The wall had too many things sticking out for a boost to actually work. I squat down a tiny bit as she begins to climb. Staying there for her as support. She does a jump and I make a face but successfully she gets on top of the wall. “Alright, your turn.” She says, taking a second to breathe.

I groan but do the same thing she did. Lifting myself up, very slowly as I don’t think I have the same amount of upper body strength as her. We jump down together. I trip a little bit and she helps me so I don’t fall. Both of us chuckling. Making our way to the area we need to get to.

We pass by the sign about Indigenous people and butterfly prophesies. “Oh, cool!” Sam grins. She skims over it but we continue forward. Finally getting to where we used to meet Josh and the twins… along with Chris.

Speaking of, “Is that Chris’s bag?” I point over to the bench. Sam moves a little closer to me. “Chris?” She calls out, we go closer to the bag. “Your bags here, but where are you?” I roll my eyes.

“Are you here? You’re not in the bag are you?!” Sam asks. I hear buzzing. “His phone.” I mutter, taking it out of the pocket. “Ah ha!” Sam grins, “look who it is.” I smirk. Ashley’s name popping up on the screen.

“Hey noseys.” A voice calls from behind us and we both jump. “Chris.” Sam sighs out. “You scared us.” We both say clinging onto each other. “I’m sorry, but are either of you my secretary?” He points a finger in our faces.

Sam takes the phone from my hand and lifts it up. “It was buzzing.” She defends our choice we made to snoop through his belonging.

“Cool. Well, thanks for letting me know. I can take it from here.” He takes it from her. He checks the message and we stand there awkwardly.

“Oh! So, I found something kinda amazing.” He goes over to his bag. “What?” Sam asks and I just lean against her, tiredly. Still intrigued nonetheless.

“I’m not gonna tell you guys, you gotta see for yourselves. Come on, it’s this way.” He leads the way, I get off of Sam and we begin to walk once again. “Where?”

“Right around here. Gonna blow your minds.” He dramatically says. “Mhm, sure.” I take a breath. “Just see before you give me attitude, [Name].” He tells me.

We get around the building and we see a Wanted poster but it doesn’t show the face of the person, It was ripped off. Only the name showed. “Victor Milgram.” I read out.

“Nice. You think we’ll get a visit from America’s most wanted?” Chris asks and I nudge him for being insensitive. “Looks like someone thought so.” Sam speaks. “oh come on. This place is abandoned most of the year.” He then starts his trail once more. “Nobody comes up here.” I think about how I came here quite a few times with Josh and his parents in the search parties for the twins. Knowing that his statement unfortunately is not true.

Him saying “Ta Dah.” Gets me out of those thoughts for a moment. “Pretty rad right?”

“Yeeeeaaaah.” Sam sarcastically says. I didn’t say anything, I just gave our friend a bored expression. “Come on! Look at these beauties.”

“Beauties is not the word that comes to mind. Why is this even here?” She questions it. “Yeah, I’m not into it.” I agree with her.

“What do you mean?” He looks back to the shooting range. “What the hell is a shooting range doing at the base of a ski lodge?”

“Dude. Have you ever met Josh’s dad? [Name], you out of everyone should know why this is here.” He points to me and I frown, knowing I have to agree with this idiot who thought a gun range would blow our minds.

“Josh’s dad thinks he’s like Grizzly Adam’s or something, for sure.” I whisper to Sam. “Wanna try?” Chris offers the shot gun to both of us. I shake my head. “You go ‘head, Grizzly.” Sam jokes with him after what I just whispered to her. Both of us laughing quietly. “Alright, here goes.” He lifts up the gun, getting it ready. He shoots the first target. He then doesn’t miss a single one and I give him a small applause.

“Wow. Nice shootin’, Tex.” Sam gives him a smile. I do a small cheer for him. “Alright. I’m bad.” Chris starts dancing causing us two to give him dirty expressions. “I’m a badass!”

“I’m gonna go ahead and guess it was a wild case of beginner’s luck.” Sam teases him after his stupid dance. “Nah, I don’t think so girl.” He wags his finger before lifting the gun back up. Shooting another target and getting it. “Well, anybody and their brother could shoot a bottle that big, that close.” She chuckles.

A squirrel shows up and my eyes widen slightly hoping Chris doesn’t go for it. “Don’t do it, Chris.” I mumble but I know he heard me when I saw his gun move to a different area. “Nice shot.”

“Your ass just got saaaacked!”

“Ugh.” I grimace, walking away from them to go back to the front of the building. “You two, our rides coming.” I say, not paying attention to what they’re doing as I head forward. I hear Sam urge Chris to come on. Him whining slightly afterward. I get to the door, trying to open it but it’s locked. I hear Chris say “a year goes fast.” And immediately choose not to ask what they were talking about.

“Hey, the doors locked.” I push on it again, to show them. “Yeaaah, Josh wanted us to keep it locked. Keep people out.” Chris informs me and then I drop my shoulders remembering that conversation we had. “He said that? What people?” Sam furrows her brows.

“He said they found people sleeping in the station one time.” I tell her, vividly seeing the conversation I had with him in my head before packing for this trip. “Creepy.”

Chris shows his key and I get out of the way for him to unlock it. He gets it open and lets us in before him.

“Ah, real gentleman.” Sam goes in, me right behind her. Sam goes to the railing and looks around as I follow Chris. “I thought the car was closer.” She complains. “Guess we gotta wait.” My boyfriend’s best friend responds.

“What a crazy place to set up house. No matter how rich you are.” He stares at a Blackwood Pines poster. “They’re not so rich.” Sam disagrees. “The only bought a mountain.” She sarcastically adds in. I watch Chris walk around the room. Both of our eyes landing on a screen. It looks like cameras surrounding the Washington Cabin. I see a thing of a bedroom and then it clip back to the front of the house. I frown, confused on what we’re looking at.

The cable car sounding closer, we both join Sam back outside. “You coming?” Sam asks Chris as I get in before her. We sit beside one another. “I was gonna catch some z’s but I guess.” He makes a horrible joke. Chris sits on the other side of me.

“Here we go.” I announce as the car moves. “Right, adventure begins.” Chris smiles.

Long awaited chapter :0

Masterlist

Josh M.L.

Taglist: If you want to be added lmk!

@my1fx

[thelov3lybookworm]

Remember Me? (Part 14)

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13

Summary: Under the Mountain, Y/n met the High Lord of the Night Court, Rhysand. She was scared of him, but soon she found out that he wasn't who he pretended to be. Despite her efforts at not falling in love with him, she fails. It's not that bad as he loves her back.

But now he's gone, and she's left alone with nothing.

Except for a very adorable reminder of him.

•○●��●○•

Tw: secret pregnancy, none more that I can think of, so let me know if I need to add anything.

A/n: (￣y▽￣)╭ Ohohoho.....

thats all i got to say

(also, consider this a peace offering after the cliffhanger of the previous part 😏)

enjoy!

•○🌑○•

"What do you mean you can't find Nyx?" Eris questioned, stepping forward to address Feyre properly while Y/n simply stared at her.

"He- he was with me in my room. But then I got up to wash my hands because there was paint on them, and when I returned, he was nowhere to be seen."

"Did you ask his maid?"

"Yes. She has not seen him since after she left him with me." Feyre glanced at Y/n with tears in her eyes, her lower lip wobbling.

Y/n reached out, tugging Feyre into a hug. The moment Feyre's head made contact with Y/n's shoulder, her tears began flowing.

Y/n felt numb, her worries raging in the back of her mind. There was only questions swirling through her head, and the answer to all those question echoing in her head.

What if it is Rhys? What if her somehow broke through the wards? Is he here to take Nyx away for some sick scheme of his?

And as she pondered about the situation, she became all the more confident in her answer.

I will go with him. Offer myself up so he would let Nyx go.

After all, it was her own fault that Feyre and Nyx's life had been ruined. If she had not went to Velaris, everyone would have been living happily.

She could not take Fin with her, but she was sure Eris would take care of him.

"Everything will be fine, Feyre. I will send out as many guards as it takes to search for him. I'm sure he will be found. Maybe he has only gone wandering into a nearby forest."

Feyre sniffled against Y/n, and that brought her back to the present.

Before Y/n could reassure Feyre too, two thuds sounded. And, turning her head to look, she found herself staring at two Illyrians and a female, all staring wide eyed at the scene before them.

Y/n's brows furrowed before she realised that these people were a part of the Night Court.

She swallowed, rubbing Feyre's back.

"Feyre?" The blonde female spoke up, causing Feyre to startle and glance up. Whatever colour was left on her face drained, and she glanced around, probably thinking of a way to escape.

When she found nothing, she turned back to the three people, offering something that looked more like a grimace than a smile.

"Hello." Feyre fiddled with her fingers, doing everything to not meet their eyes.

"Why?" It was the one with red gems adorning his form that spoke up, emotion evident in his voice.

Feyre sighed, opening her mouth to speak, but before she could, the other Illyrian, who had blue gems on his form, advanced menacingly.

He made his way straight towards Eris, and, panicked, Y/n wrapped her hand around Eris's bicep and pulled him closer. She did not know what she was hoping it would do to help, but at least it calmed her down.

And it also made the illyrian slow down a little, even though his eyes looked murderous.

"Why did you bring her here? So you could-"

"Azriel." Feyre called, stopping the male from advancing further. He turned to glance at her.

"I... I came of my own free will."

"But why?" Cried the blonde female.

Feyre rubbed her temples. "I will tell you, but not now. After the meeting. I will tell you all of what happened."

The other Illyrian, the one with the red gems, took a few steps forward to engulf Feyre in a hug. "It's okay. You can tell us whenever you feel comfortable."

"Thank you, Cassian."

The illyrian whose name was Azriel nodded, and the blonde woman looked away, but not before Y/n spied tears in her eyes.

She felt bad for them, as Feyre had been their family and they had been left in the dark for so long.

Feyre pulled back from the hug as if she remembered something. "Please don't tell Rhys where I am."

Everyone nodded, before Cassian grinned.

"So. Where is my nephew?"

A new rush of tears flooded Feyre's eyes.

"He is missing. I was trying to search for him just before you showed up."

The smile dropped from Cassian's face, and he turned to look at Azriel.

And then, a sound that had everyone going rigid and sighing in relief at the same time came from outside the huge doors, and both Fere and Y/n rushed forward.

And there, sat on a golden beast's head, was a giggling Nyx.

•○🌑○•

General Taglist: @bubybubsters @eos-princess @nightless @harrystylesfan2686 @cassie6392

Eris Taglist: @kennedy-brooke @hnyclover @minnieoo @sidrapotter @tele86

Remember me Taglist: @holb32 @awoa1 @cleverzonkwombatsludge @luvmoo @we-were-beautiful @eerievixen @zoe2 @fussel9913 @j-pendragonx @thesnugglingduck @jesssicapaniagua @devilsnightz @esposadomd @littleffawn @mandowhatnow @bubybubsters @eos-princess @nightless @bigcreatorwombatdreamer @princesslolaasworld @asemkta @cat-or-kitten @txzii @bunnyredgirl @theofficialmadman @leeknows-wife @aria-chikage @amygdtjhddzvb @azriels-mate123 @inky-clover @kemillyfreitas @12358 @justdreamstars @cuethedepession @princessvesta @fides25 @nocasdatsgay @acourtofbatboydreams @stained-glass-eyes0708 @glaciuswduo @wallacewillow0773638 @cassie6392 @quackitysdrugdealer @txzii @anuttellaa @coisas-da-dani @hnyclover @sassyslytherinshai @historygeekqueen @why4anne @mybestfriendmademe @going-through-shit @thisblogisaboutabook @thehighlordishere

[kitchenisking]

Day 4

Seires Fic Rec part 14

Queer Your Coffee by alisvolatpropiis - (Queer Your Coffee) - (Rating: Not Rated, Words: 3,084, sterek)

Derek's just over the city line when he sees a sign for an independent drive-thru place, Full Spectrum Brew. There are three cars in line when he turns in, which annoys him but gives him hope. Not that he really trusts the people of Beacon Hills to have much taste when it comes to coffee (god, he is a snob), but the shop’s popularity does seem to bode well. The line of cars moves way more slowly than he’d like, each customer in front of him seeming to take way too long to order, and then lingering when they get their coffee. He’s irritable from lack of sleep and an even more detrimental lack of caffeine, anxious to get out of the car. Finally it’s his turn and he slowly rolls up to the window, turning the radio down.

For a second, he thinks he must have fallen asleep while he was waiting, because what he sees when he looks in the window surely must be a dream.

Stunning brown eyes like glowing honey and sweet little nose, slightly upturned; a shapely pink mouth, bottom-lip pierced by a thin black hoop that he's worrying with the tip of his tongue as he smiles a gorgeous hello.

He's the most beautiful man Derek's ever seen.

And he’s shirtless.

It's a Beautiful Night by khasael - (Hale and Hearty) - (Rating: T, Words: 2,887, sterek)

Just because they're all almost used to fighting against the Creature of the Week and assorted other Bad Guys, doesn't mean it doesn't get Stiles's heart rate going.

Dream a Little Dream by Yoiko - (A Little Dream of Me ) - (Rating: Explicit, Words: 1,101, sterek)

“There’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time. And since this is my dream you’re going to let me do it.”

All things share the same breath - the beast, the tree, the man. by devilscut - (There are nights when the wolves are silent and the moon howls.) - (Rating: Mature, Words: 11,687, sterek)

A shell-shocked Stiles regroups with the pack to find his father who has been kidnapped by the Darach. Their search leads them to the Nematon, where their confrontation with the Darach reveals her plans and that there is more to being a True Alpha than they know. Derek and his family's legacy is at the heart of her schemes and when the Darach has him under her control Stiles begins to realise the extent of how much he really cares for the sourwolf. In true Scooby-doo fashion, the villain has told them of her plans but more shockingly to Stiles she also reveals a very important aspect of his and Derek's relationship.

The virtue of patience by nofeartina - (Patience) - (Rating: Explicit, Words: 11,827, sterek)

Stiles isn't afraid of admitting his feelings to Derek, but that doesn't mean that Derek wants to hear it. 

Or the one where Stiles knows that all good things come to those who wait.

I Feel Like You Can't Feel the Way I Feel by i_might_be_in_over_my_head - ( Einherjar MC ) - (Rating: Explicit, Words: 14,087, sterek)

“Fuckin A, dude! The last time you gave me that look I ended up in the woods in the middle of the night, lost my inhaler, and almost died. Please tell me why you’re always trying to get me killed?” Scott shook his head resigned. He knew Stiles was going in and nothing he could say would change that. “If we wake up dead tomorrow just remember this was your idea.”

Stiles threw his fist in the air enthusiastically, almost punching Scott in the face, and turned to the door. He knew if he didn’t go quick Scott would probably change his mind and he’d have to start all over. “Dude that was sophomore year of high school, let it go! Plus dead body! We had to go. We’ll just have a drink and check it out. It’ll be fun!”

fingertips have memories by thatworldinverted - (let's talk about sex ) - (Rating: Explicit, Words: 1,800, sterek)

Pochemuchka (Russian), noun: a person who asks a lot of questions. 

"I saw the way you watched me, when I was home last month. How long have you been dreaming about getting me on my knees?"

seems to me it's chemistry by HalfFizzbin - (covalent bonds) - (Rating: T, Words: 4,153, sterek)

Awkward Nerd Derek has been crushing on Handsome Jock Stiles since forever—so getting paired with him on a Chemistry project is definitely the best/worst thing that's ever happened to him.

These next two fics go hand in hand. 😇

The One with All the Kids by Itsreallyjustforresearch83 - (Rating: G, Words: 6,527, sterek)

Derek didn't know what he did to deserve to have this again. A house full of people, of family. He's going to be forever grateful to that rouge witch for what she did for him and Stiles, because after all the hurt they went through together, many years later, they're standing in the Pack house, in their house, surrounded by their family.

A New Hale by Itsreallyjustforresearch83 - (Rating: G, Words: 4,543, sterek)

The Pack meets the werewolf cub that Stiles and Derek gets placed with them on Christmas.

[itadores]

note: had this idea awhile ago, but didn't get around to writing it until now

pairing: gojo satoru & gn!reader, nanami kento x gn!reader

tags: gender neutral reader, platonic relationship between gojo and reader, past romantic relationship between nanami and reader, hopeful ending?

satoru is acting strange. most noticeably, he's been more distant as of late. and for someone as bothersome as him, it's unusual that he's not taking every opportunity that presents itself to irritate you. the peace and quiet is pleasant but unsettling. if satoru's not annoying you as he usually does, it must mean he's up to something. and knowing satoru, it's nothing good.

although you will mourn the brief period of tranquility of your life that is satoru-free, you know that he's most likely concocting up some scheme right now. you won't be able to rest easy if you don't get to the bottom of what satoru is planning. you decide to seek out the man yourself to get the answers you're searching for, but satoru is irritatingly good at avoiding situations that he wishes to evades. he's nowhere to be spotted at the bakeries and pastry shops he loves to frequent, but you can sense traces of his energy all over the place as if he was just there. he hasn't been sent off on any long-term or long-distance missions recently, which you confirmed with principal yaga to be true.

it appears that satoru's current mission at hand is to avoid you. it makes your eyes twitch and your teeth grit in irritation. you will not allow him to get away with avoiding you that easily.

like a bloodhound, you track satoru down. although he attempts to side step and evade you, he cannot do so forever. eventually, you manage to corner satoru after a meeting that required both of your attendance. now that he's within your grasp, you don't intend on letting him go until you manage to squeeze all of the answers you desire out of him.

"why are you avoiding me?"

you're blunt, getting straight to the point. there's no need for niceties or to beat around the bush, especially when it concerns satoru. if satoru had it his way, he could talk in circles and circles until you relented and gave up on the conversation.

"i have no idea what you mean-"

"cut the shit, satoru," you cut him off, giving him a dead stare. your eyes narrow at him. "you and i both know i'm not an idiot, so i'm going to ask you one more time. why are you avoiding me? what are you hiding?"

satoru smiles.

a feeling of dread washes over you.

"guess you'll just have to wait and see," he teases before he disappears before your very eyes. your fist closes around nothing but air, and you curse gojo satoru out under your breath.

unease settles in your chest. you regret ever befriending satoru.

for days after your interaction with satoru, you're on edge. more so than usual. you're not sure what to expect since satoru, that bastard, didn't give you any hints, but you're ready for whatever he may throw at you.

but you are proven painfully wrong when on a walk around jujutsu high, you're greeted with the sight of nanami kento. it feels like you've been physically struck when your eyes land on him. the last time you saw nanami kento in the flesh was over four years ago. the outline of his back as he walked out on the world of sorcery, out on you, is seared into your memory. pressed into the back of your eyelids. there every single time you blinked.

perhaps, you've truly gone and lost it. the years spent as a jujutsu sorcerer have driven you to madness. to the point where you're hallucinating the sight of the only boy you've ever loved. but you can feel kento's cursed energy. it's unmistakably and indisputably him. you would be able to recognize it anywhere. no matter how many years have passed.

your breath hitches when your blatant staring and internal spiraling is interrupted by a slight turn of the head. before your brain can comprehend it, nanami kento is looking in your direction. although you cannot see his eyes, which remain hidden behind a pair of glasses you've never seen him wear before, you know that he is looking at you. the corners of nanami's lips curl into a slight smile, and your heartbeat goes unsteady at the sight of it. nanami kento is still as beautiful as the day you lost him.

as you take a step towards the blond, you make a mental note to strangle satoru later for not warning you ahead of time of nanami kento's return.

[theetherealbloom]

AS GOOD A REASON - CH. 7 | OBERYN MARTELL

Chapter Seven: I Vowed I Would Always Be Yours 

Summary: You, who has made it her life's work to get retribution on those who mistreated and harassed you when you were a child. The scars on your body are a physical reminder of the suffering you endured at the hands of abusers, and they also provide the fuel for your years-long quest for retribution.

Paring: Oberyn Martell x Fem!Reader

Warnings: 18+ MDNI DEAD DOVE DO NOT EAT, MINORS GO AWAY, GoT is full of serious and harmful topics, mentions of SA, Rape (not the reader), Murder, Violence, Gore, War, Poison, Scars, Burns, Scratching, Attempted Su!c!de, Idealization of Su!c!de, AU, Age–Gap Romance, Angst, FLUFF, SMUT, Swearing, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Crying, Suggestive content, Flirting, Blood, War, Religion References, Nudity, Domestic Abuse, Incest, Prostitution, Weapons, Fire, Horror, Character Deaths, Rewrite Alternate Universe, Sex, Alcohol, Revenge, Panic Attacks, Anxiety Attack, Insecurities,

Word Count: 7.5k

A/N: Canonically, I know the Sand Snakes are in the Water Gardens, but I decided to go with what @forever-rogue did which is make ‘em stay at Hellholt. So shout out to her for being an incredible writer and one of the people who inspired me to gather my courage to write my own Oberyn fic. GO READ HER STUFF! Anyways, here we are, this is where I am literally in uncharted territories and have no script to go off from lmao. The next chapters of this fic are less conflict-focused and more romance-focused, and from here on out everything is almost canon-divergent hehe. It’s safe to expect that things will spice up from here! Lastly, I made the gif myself lmao. I’m lowkey proud of myself for that heheheh

Side note: I’m dyslexic and English isn’t my first language! So I apologize in advance for the spelling and/or grammatical errors. As always, reblogs, comments, and likes are always appreciated. Thank you and happy reading!

Song: The Great War by Taylor Swift

Previous Chapter → Next Chapter | Series Masterlist | Main Masterlist

A FEW DAYS LATER...  

KING'S LANDING, RED KEEP — NIGHT

The Red Keep’s halls felt different now, the tension from the trial lingering in the air like a suffocating cloud. You had been busy—preparing, strategizing, making sure every piece of the plan to take down Lord Tywin was in place. Yet, in the quiet moments between schemes, your mind drifted to Oberyn. You hadn’t seen him since you left that note by the ocean, but every day, you wondered if he still waited for you.

You step into the cool night air near the docks, the moonlight bathing everything in silver. The wine bottle feels heavy in your hand as you make your way to the familiar spot. And there he is, just as you hoped, standing by the water’s edge, his eyes scanning the horizon as if searching for something—or someone.

“I brought wine.” Your voice breaks the silence, and Oberyn turns. His gaze locks onto you, and in that moment, you see it all—the pain, the confusion, the anger, and the relief. He had been waiting, even though he had every reason to walk away.

“You…” he begins, his voice rough as if words are failing him. “You’re here.” He takes a small step forward, the moonlight catching the tears threatening to fall from his eyes. “How could you? You left me... Do you know how much I’ve—"

You interrupt him gently, your heart in your throat. “I’ve missed you.”

He stops, the burden of your words hanging between you. His voice cracks when he asks, “Then why did you leave me again?”

You take a step closer, the scent of the sea mixing with the faint spice of Dornish air. “Maybe... maybe it was out of love, not revenge.”

Oberyn’s shoulders tense, his jaw clenching as he wipes at the tears staining his cheeks. “Love? You call it love when you disappear, when you leave me with nothing but ghosts to hold onto?”

His words slice through you, but you force yourself to hold his gaze. “I had to go. There’s something more important than just us. Tyrion… he needs me. And so do you. I wasn’t running away—I was preparing. We’re going to take down Lord Tywin.”

Oberyn’s eyes widen slightly, the mention of Tyrion and Tywin pulling him from his anger. “You’ve been planning with him… to destroy Tywin?”

You nod, stepping even closer now. “I’ve been preparing to help. To take down the man who’s done so much harm to both of us.”

He stares at you, the anger fading into something softer, something broken. “I haven’t been well,” he admits, his voice barely above a whisper. “My revenge didn’t go as I planned. Nothing has.”

You take the final step, your bodies almost touching. “Then maybe you need a tutor,” you say softly, brushing your fingers along his cheek. “Would you like me to give you lessons… in revenge?”

Oberyn closes his eyes at your touch, his breath shaky as he leans into your hand. “And what will you teach me?”

You smile faintly, leaning in until your lips are just a breath away from his. “I’ll be your headsman now. I’ll be your missing piece. Tell me… who do you want me to kill first?”

His eyes open, dark and full of something raw, something desperate. And then, without another word, he pulls you to him, capturing your lips in a kiss that’s fierce, hungry, and full of all the emotions he’s been holding back.

The bottle of wine slips from your hand, forgotten, as you lose yourself in him.

KING'S LANDING, RED KEEP — DAY

The Red Keep had become a hollow shell of what it once was. Tyrion was free, but you knew the fight was far from over. Tywin will soon be gone, and the balance of power will shift, but vengeance was still afoot—Tyrion’s sights are set on Cersei and those who had wronged him. A storm was brewing, and you had no place in it.

Standing by the window of your chambers, you looked out over the sprawling city. King’s Landing was a place of betrayal, lies, and the shadows of your past. There was no life for you here, not anymore. You had done what you came to do—the Mountain was dead, and the world was changing, but it wasn’t enough to erase the scars of what had been done to you.

The sun was warm on your face as you began to pack your things, carefully folding your clothes into a simple satchel. The room felt emptier now, as if it knew you wouldn’t be returning. The last few days had been a whirlwind of plans and goodbyes, but one task remained, one ghost that needed to be laid to rest before you left this cursed city.

Reaching into the drawer, your fingers brushed against the coarse fabric of a familiar dress. The one you wore the day Elia Martell was murdered. The day the Mountain had ravaged and destroyed her, leaving you burned and scarred as you tried to escape his cruelty. The sight of it brought a flood of memories that sent a sharp pain through your chest. You lifted the dress carefully, the fabric still stained with blood and soot.

You let out a shaky breath, tears stinging your eyes, the one thing you couldn’t bring yourself to burn. The pain of that day still lingered like a specter. But as you examined the dress, you felt something crinkle inside. Frowning, you reached into a hidden pocket you had never noticed before. Your fingers closed around something small and fragile—a letter.

Confusion filled you. How had you never seen this? The fabric had been untouched for years. Carefully, you unfolded the parchment, your heart pounding as you saw the handwriting. Elia’s.

The ink had faded, but the words were still legible. They hit you like a dagger to the chest.

"My dearest friend,  

If you find this, the worst has come. I beg you, do not stay in King’s Landing. Flee. Run far from Maegor’s Holdfast, away from the fighting, away from the horror that is to come. Go to Dorne, to my brothers, Oberyn and Doran. Tell them I love them, that I wished for a different end. I should have sent you sooner, but now you must go, for my sake. Please… live."

Your fingers trembled as you held the letter, your breath caught in your throat. Eighteen years. Eighteen long years, and all this time, this letter had been here, untouched. Elia had tried to save you, to send you to her brothers, to Dorne. Your chest tightened with grief and regret. If only you had found this sooner, maybe everything would have been different. 

As you sat on the edge of your bed, clutching the letter to your chest, there was a soft knock at the door. You wiped your eyes quickly and stood as Oberyn entered the room.

His eyes immediately went to the letter in your hand. He stepped closer, his expression softening with concern. “What’s that?”

You handed it to him, your voice barely above a whisper. “It’s from Elia.”

Oberyn’s brow furrowed as he took the letter, his gaze scanning the words. His expression hardened, a storm of emotions flashing in his eyes—grief, love, guilt. “She wanted you to go to Dorne,” he murmured. “She tried to protect you.”

Tears welled up in your eyes as you nodded. “I never found it. All these years, it was here, and I… I thought I had been abandoned. But Elia… she never forgot me.”

Oberyn exhaled, his jaw tightening as he folded the letter carefully. His voice was thick with emotion. “My sister loved you. She always spoke of you, even in her final days. If she had known what was coming, she would have done anything to save you.”

You swallowed the lump in your throat, feeling the significance of Elia’s words. “There was a time,” you whispered, “when I thought… ‘What if someone had tried to help me?’ Now I finally realize that there were good grown-ups around me, too. Friends, weather, and divine intervention, too. Now I know… she did.”

Oberyn’s hand found yours, his grip firm but gentle. “Come with me,” he said softly, his eyes meeting yours with quiet intensity. “To Dorne. Come home with me. Meet my brother Doran, my daughters. Elia would’ve wanted you to see Dorne for all its beauty, for all it has to offer.”

Your heart ached at his words. Dorne had always been a place of legend in your mind, a distant dream. But now, with Oberyn standing before you, offering you the chance to finally belong, to heal, it felt like a promise of something new.

You took a deep breath, looking up at him. “Do you really think… Elia would’ve wanted me there?”

Oberyn smiled, a soft, genuine smile that reached his eyes. “I know she would. She always said you belonged in Dorne. She wanted you to be safe, to be loved. Let me show you the home she wanted for you.”

You nodded slowly, your voice barely above a whisper. “Okay. I’ll come with you.”

KING’S LANDING, RED KEEP — LATER

The streets of King’s Landing were buzzing with whispers, like restless birds flocking above the ashes of a great fire. The once-powerful Lannister name now seemed vulnerable, as enemies crept from the shadows, eager to seize their chance.

You walked through the Red Keep for what would be the last time, your footsteps echoing off the cold stone walls. This place had never felt like home. It had always been a battlefield, not only in the physical sense but also in the games of politics and survival. You had played your part, avenging the wrongs that haunted your past. The poison Oberyn had carefully crafted for Lord Tywin will take effect soon. There was nothing left for you here. Still, there were those you needed to say goodbye to.

Your first stop was the docks. The salty breeze off Blackwater Bay tugged at your hair as you approached Serena, your faithful friend. She stood by the ship that would take her to Braavos, her belongings already packed and loaded onto the vessel.

When she saw you, her face softened, and she opened her arms. Without a word, you embraced her, the warmth of her body grounding you for a moment in the chaos of the day.

“I don’t know how to thank you,” you whispered, holding her tightly. “For everything. You’ve been my strength through all of this.”

Serena smiled, pulling back slightly to look at you. Her eyes, filled with wisdom and compassion, glistened under the light of the setting sun. “You don’t owe me anything. You’ve done enough, more than enough. It’s time for you to find your own peace now.”

You swallowed the lump in your throat, knowing that her words were true, but still, the thought of leaving her behind stung. “I’ll never forget what you’ve done for me,” you said softly, your voice breaking just a little.

She placed a gentle hand on your cheek. “And I’ll never forget you, my friend. Now go, before I start crying and embarrass myself.”

You both laughed softly, but the sadness lingered as you stepped back, giving her one last look before you left her there.

Your next farewell came in the shadowy corridors of the Red Keep. It was a place where you'd experienced both the highest stakes and the deepest betrayals, and now you were ready to sever your ties. You passed through the halls, not lingering any longer than necessary, your thoughts already drifting far away from this pit of liars.

First, you came across Tyrion, who was standing with a small, satisfied smile on his face despite everything. His recent freedom hadn’t come without cost, but his fight was far from over. He would carry on, and you respected that.

When he noticed you, his smile faltered, turning thoughtful as he stepped closer. “I owe you my life,” he said with a slight incline of his head. “Not many would have risked what you did.”

You offered him a small, bittersweet smile. “It wasn’t for you, Tyrion. But I’m glad you’re free. You deserve better than this place.”

Tyrion’s eyes softened with understanding. “And you deserve peace, wherever you find it.”

You nodded, knowing you would never forget the strange bond you had formed with him in these dark times. “Goodbye, Tyrion. May your revenge taste sweeter than mine.”

With that, you turned away, leaving behind the one Lannister you could stomach. But there was still one more encounter you couldn’t avoid.

---

Jaime Lannister was waiting, his golden hand resting on the pommel of his sword as he leaned against the stone wall, his gaze distant as he stared out over the courtyard. You approached him, your steps measured, your face set in a cool, unreadable expression.

When he noticed you, Jaime stood straighter, his eyes flicking to yours. There was no warmth between you, only an understanding born from the knowledge of who you both were—survivors of a cruel world, playing your roles as best you could.

“I never liked you,” you said bluntly, not bothering to soften your words. “You aren’t a good man, but you never pretended to be. I can respect that.”

Jaime raised an eyebrow, a flicker of something like amusement passing over his features. “And here I thought we were going to end things on a high note.”

You smirked slightly, but there was no real humor in it. “You care for your family. That much I understand. But don’t mistake that for forgiveness.”

Jaime’s face darkened, but he didn’t argue. Instead, he nodded once, a quiet acceptance of your judgment. “I don’t expect forgiveness,” he said quietly. “Only survival.”

With that, you turned on your heel and left the Red Keep behind, feeling the weight of years of pain and bitterness slowly begin to lift from your shoulders as the doors closed behind you.

DORNE — DAY

The journey to Dorne was unlike anything you had imagined. As the landscape changed from the cold, rigid greys of King’s Landing to the warmth of Dorne, it felt as if the world itself was breathing for the first time. The golden sun bathed the rolling hills, turning the sand into rivers of light. Every breath you took felt lighter, cleaner, as if the air here was different. It smelled of spices and sea salt, a stark contrast to the rot and soot of the capital. The vibrant hues of the desert, the deep oranges and reds, made you feel alive in a way you hadn’t felt in years.

Oberyn rode beside you, silent but ever-present. His gaze lingered on you, watching as you took in the beauty of his homeland. There was an unspoken understanding between you. He had given you the space to process this new world, but you could feel his desire to share it with you. 

When the sun began its descent, casting the sky in fiery shades of red and gold, he finally broke the silence. “This is your home now,” he said softly, his voice carrying a warmth that mirrored the setting sun. “Elia would have wanted this for you—for you to find peace, to live freely.”

His words hit you with a force you hadn’t expected. The weight of everything you’d left behind—the pain, the anger, the scars—began to lift, if only just a little. You looked out at the expanse of land before you, the endless stretch of desert that seemed to go on forever, and felt tears prick your eyes. “It’s… beautiful,” you whispered, your voice trembling with emotion. “I can’t believe I waited so long to come here.”

Oberyn reached over, taking your hand in his, his touch grounding you. “You’re here now,” he murmured, his thumb brushing lightly over your knuckles. “That’s what matters.”

As you reached Hellholt, Ellaria’s ancestral home, the grandeur of the sandstone fortress took your breath away. The open courtyard buzzed with life as her daughters ran about, their laughter filling the air like music. You could see how much they took after their mother, fierce and unyielding, yet full of life.

Ellaria greeted you with a quiet smile, her arms wrapping around you in a hug that felt softer than you expected. The tension between you two still lingered, the unspoken feelings surrounding Oberyn’s love for you hanging heavy in the air, but there was something close to peace in her embrace.

“You’ll look after him, won’t you?” she asked, her voice low and serious as she pulled away, her eyes locking onto yours. “Oberyn means well, but sometimes… he needs someone to steady him.”

You gave her a nod, offering a reassuring smile. “I will. And we’ll visit when we can.”

Ellaria stepped back to her daughters, but not without one last glance at you—an acknowledgment that perhaps, in time, the strangeness between you two might fade. Oberyn, watching from a distance, caught your eye and smiled, pride and affection shining in his gaze.

The next morning, you and Oberyn departed Hellholt, the sound of Ellaria’s daughters’ laughter fading as you rode further into Dorne’s heart. The heat of the day settled into your skin, and as the sun rose higher, Oberyn kept you close, ensuring you were comfortable, taking every opportunity to steal a kiss or brush his fingers along your arm.

DORNE, SUNSPEAR — DAY

When you finally arrived in Sunspear, the capital of Dorne, it was as though you had entered a dream. The towering spires of the palace loomed in the distance, and the city itself was bustling with life—merchants, nobles, and commoners alike filling the streets with vibrant colors and spirited conversations. The air was filled with the scent of oranges and spices, carried on the wind from the sea.

Oberyn stopped his horse and looked at you, his expression softening as he took in the sight of you against the backdrop of his homeland. “We’re home,” he said, his voice full of tenderness.

You turned to him, your heart swelling. There was something about the way he said it that made everything feel right. Home. This place—Dorne—had always been where you were meant to be, even if it had taken years to find your way here.

Oberyn dismounted and came to your side, helping you down. As your feet touched the warm sand, he cupped your face in his hands, his thumb gently brushing your cheek. “Elia would have wanted you to see this,” he whispered. “To be part of this life. She always believed Dorne had a way of healing the soul.”

Tears welled in your eyes as you looked at him, the love in his gaze overwhelming. “I wish she could be here,” you murmured, your voice breaking.

Oberyn smiled, though there was a sadness in it. “She is. In every sunset, in every breeze, Elia is here.”

Oberyn gathered you in his arms, “She loved you,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “And I love you. You belong here—with me.”

The two of you stood there, the sun setting over the sea, casting long shadows over the sand. And for the first time in what felt like an eternity, you knew that you were exactly where you were meant to be.

Home.

WATER GARDENS, DORNE — NOON

The gates of Sunspear opened before you, and the sight that greeted you was nothing short of breathtaking. The Water Gardens, the beloved retreat of House Martell, stretched out in all directions, a vision of tranquility and beauty. Lush greenery surrounded shimmering pools of water, each reflecting the clear blue sky above. The gardens were dotted with fountains, their soft trickling filling the air with a soothing melody. Vibrant flowers, rich in color, bloomed along the pathways, their petals swaying gently in the warm breeze. It was a stark contrast to the harsh, grey stone of King’s Landing, and you couldn’t help but pause, your breath catching in your throat as you took it all in. None of these walls are stained by hatred. How strange this all is.

Life, which had once felt so rigid and colorless, suddenly seemed full of possibility. The villas, painted in shades of orange, red, and gold, stood proudly against the sunlit sky, their terracotta roofs blending with the desert landscape. Everything felt so alive, bursting with color. The black-and-white certainty that had governed your thoughts for so long seemed to dissolve under the warmth of the Dornish sun.

The servants welcomed you and Oberyn with gracious bows and smiles. You felt a bit stiff, your body hesitant and unsure in the face of such warmth. You weren’t used to this—being at the center of attention. The greetings felt too much, the eyes on you too kind, and your fingers twitched nervously at your sides as you forced a small smile. The heat, blistering and unrelenting, pressed against your skin, a far cry from the cooler climate of the North. You tugged at the sleeves of your long gown, grateful for the cover. The thought of your scars made your stomach turn. It wasn’t your discomfort you feared, but their own. You weren’t ready to expose that part of yourself, not yet.

Oberyn seemed to sense your unease. He reached for your hand as he led you through the gardens toward the palace. “Dorne welcomes you,” he said softly, his voice a balm to your nerves. “There is no need for hesitation here. You are among friends.”

Ahead, on a shaded terrace overlooking the Water Gardens, Prince Doran awaited you. He sat in a grand chair, his posture regal despite the illness that clearly weighed on him. Beside him stood Areo Hotah, his loyal captain, ever watchful with his towering figure and unyielding gaze.

Oberyn introduced you, his voice full of pride as he presented you to his elder brother. “This is the one I spoke of,” Oberyn said, his eyes flicking to you with a tender smile. “She has traveled far to be here, and Dorne will be better for her presence.”

You stepped forward, ready to bow in respect, but Oberyn’s hand shot out, gently stopping you. “We don’t bow in Dorne,” he whispered with a chuckle, leaning in close. “Not unless you want to draw more attention to yourself.”

Your face heated up immediately, a wave of embarrassment washing over you. “Oh,” you murmured softly, feeling the eyes of both princes on you.

Prince Doran, however, only smiled warmly. “No need to worry,” he said kindly, his voice gentle despite the weariness in it. “We are not as formal as they are in the North. How was your journey?”

You composed yourself, offering a small, grateful smile. “The journey went well, Your Grace. Thank you for allowing me to come to Dorne… I only hope to be of use. I can work—”

“No,” Doran interrupted softly but firmly, shaking his head. “You have been through more than anyone should. You will not serve us. For the rest of your days, you will be treated with the respect you deserve. You will live here, in the palace, as one of our own.”

Your heart swelled at his words, but there was a heaviness that lingered in your chest. The kindness overwhelmed you. It felt like too much, like you didn’t deserve it. You glanced at Oberyn, who gave you a reassuring nod, his hand brushing against your arm in silent support.

You mustered a sad smile, trying to push away the guilt. “Thank you, Your Grace. Princess Elia… she was always so kind to me. I remember her laughter, her warmth… she made everything brighter, even when the world was falling apart.” The memory of Elia’s voice rang in your ears, and your chest tightened.

Doran’s eyes filled with unshed tears at the mention of his sister, and his voice trembled as he replied, “Thank you for remembering her.” He took a breath, blinking back his sorrow. “It is a gift that you survived.”

The guilt washed over you again, an unwelcome tide. Survived. Sometimes you wondered why you had been spared when so many others had fallen. But there was no room for that thought now—not here.

Doran’s voice, steady once more, broke the silence. “We will provide you with everything you need—clothing, food, whatever it is. I’m sure the Northern attire will be quite stifling in our heat.”

You nodded, uncertain. The thought of changing into Dornish clothing, so light and revealing compared to what you were used to, made you uneasy. You would have to speak to Oberyn about it later, perhaps when you were alone, away from the formalities of the palace.

Just then, a woman approached you, bowing slightly. “I am your lady-in-waiting, my lady,” she said with a smile. “My name is Mirra.”

You nodded in acknowledgment, still adjusting to the sudden rush of new faces and titles. Before you could say anything, Oberyn turned to you, his grin full of mischief. “I have some matters to discuss with my brother,” he said, his hand slipping around your waist, drawing you closer to him. “But do not worry. I will make sure to join you for dinner later.” His eyes gleamed with amusement, and before you could respond, he leaned in and kissed you—right there, in front of Doran and Areo Hotah.

The warmth of his lips, the unexpected display of affection, left you completely caught off guard. Your body heated from head to toe, your thoughts spinning. It wasn’t just the kiss—it was the ease with which he did it, without a care for who was watching. You caught your breath as he pulled back, his eyes twinkling with satisfaction at your stunned reaction.

Doran merely chuckled softly from his chair, while you stood frozen in place, your heart racing. As Oberyn walked away, you realized one thing with absolute certainty: life in Dorne would be unlike anything you had ever known.

Mirra led you through the winding halls of the palace, her steps light and graceful, as if she had walked these paths her entire life. When she stopped before a large wooden door, you couldn’t help but feel a slight flutter in your chest. With a quiet smile, she pushed it open, revealing the grand quarters that would now be yours.

The room was breathtaking. Sunlight filtered through sheer curtains, casting a warm glow over everything. The bedroom was vast, far larger than anything you’d ever had before. A massive bed, draped in fine silks and adorned with pillows, took up the center of the room, its grand frame intricately carved with symbols of the sun and moon. The sheets were a deep, luxurious red, and you could already imagine how soft they would feel against your skin.

The walls were lined with vibrant tapestries, each telling stories of Dorne’s rich history, and the floor was covered in plush rugs that felt like clouds underfoot. A small table stood by the window, and on it, a pitcher of cool water with fresh fruit beside it, waiting for your return from the heat. Everything about this room spoke of comfort, of care, and luxury—things that had once felt so distant to you.

Mirra gestured toward a small chest at the foot of the bed. “They’ll bring your belongings soon, but for now, these were laid out for you.” She approached the chest and opened it, revealing several beautiful dresses, each more exquisite than the last. “Prince Oberyn thought you might like them. They’re light, perfect for our weather here in Dorne.”

You approached the chest cautiously, your fingers brushing over the fabric of the dresses. They were stunning—light, flowing pieces with intricate embroidery. Each was adorned with suns, crafted in gold thread that shimmered in the light. The colors were bold—reds, oranges, deep purples—celebrating the warmth of the Dornish sun. But as you lifted one of the gowns, your heart skipped. They were sleeveless, with daring necklines, designed to expose more skin than you were comfortable with.

You ran your fingers over the delicate fabric, feeling its softness. The dresses were stunning, yet the thought of wearing something so revealing made your chest tighten. It wasn’t the scars—they didn’t bother you, nor did the thought of people looking or asking questions. Those wounds had healed long ago, and their marks no longer held power over you. But here, in this new world of sun and beauty, the weight of something else pressed down on you.

It was the fear of embarrassing Oberyn. Standing beside him, so strong and proud, you couldn’t shake the feeling that, somehow, you might not belong here.

But you didn’t want to seem ungrateful, not after Oberyn had gone out of his way to choose something for you. You swallowed your discomfort, forcing a smile. “They’re beautiful.”

Mirra watched you carefully, her kind eyes noticing your hesitation. “Prince Oberyn mentioned you two would be sharing these quarters,” she said gently, her voice soft. “But he also said that if you’re uncomfortable, he’d be more than khappy to stay in another room.”

Her words hit you like a wave, and for a moment, you froze. Sharing a room with Oberyn? The idea made your mind race. You weren’t sure if you were ready for that level of intimacy, not yet. The thought of sharing such close quarters with him both thrilled and terrified you. But you couldn’t bring yourself to say no, not after everything you’d both been through. Not after all the kindness he’d shown you. 

“It’s… fine,” you finally managed, your voice barely a whisper. “I’ll be fine.”

Mirra nodded with understanding, offering you a small, comforting smile. “I’ll have a bath drawn for you,” she said, moving toward the door. “I imagine the journey was rough. I’ll return shortly to fetch you.”

Left alone, you wandered to the large balcony that overlooked the Water Gardens. The doors were already open, and as you stepped out, the warmth of the afternoon sun kissed your skin. The view before you was nothing short of breathtaking. The sprawling gardens stretched out below, filled with vibrant colors of the season. In the distance, you could see the faint outline of Sunspear’s city walls, the rooftops glistening in the sun.

The sun was slowly setting, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and gold. The colors blended together, washing over the landscape in a way that made everything feel serene, almost otherworldly. For the first time in what felt like years, you allowed yourself to breathe deeply, the tension in your shoulders melting away under the warmth of the sun.

Standing there, feeling the soft breeze caress your skin, you closed your eyes and let the moment envelop you. The weight of your past, the pain, and the fear—it was still there, lurking in the corners of your mind. But here, in this moment, it felt distant. You’re no longer there anymore, you told yourself, the words settling over your heart like a protective shield. No matter how much they’ve tried to break you, you’ve survived. You’re not scared of them anymore.

A sense of peace washed over you as you stood on the balcony, watching the sun dip beneath the horizon. For the first time in years, it felt like time was moving forward. You were no longer bound to the memories that once weighed you down, no longer trapped in the shadows of what had been. Here in Dorne, with Oberyn by your side, things felt different. You felt different. The world was no longer just black and white—it was bursting with color, vibrant and alive, and you were beginning to learn how to embrace it.

The quiet knock at the door pulled you from your thoughts. Mirra stepped in, her soft smile welcoming as she said, "My lady, your bath is ready."

You nodded, following her through the grand room. The air was warm, scented with lavender and the faint salt of the sea, and as you stepped into the adjoining bath chamber, you couldn’t help but admire the elegance of it all. The tub was large, carved from marble, with steam rising gently from the water.

Mirra moved to help you undress, her hands reaching for the ties of your gown. But as her fingers brushed your back, you froze, the sudden contact pulling you from the moment. 

“No,” you said softly, your voice steady but firm. “I can take it from here.”

Mirra hesitated, her brow furrowing slightly. “My lady?”

You offered her a small smile, your hand resting on hers to ease the tension. “Thank you, but I’ll manage.”

Her gaze lingered on you, a hint of concern in her eyes, but after a moment, she nodded, stepping back with a respectful bow. “Very well. I’ll leave you to it.”

Once she was gone, you stood for a moment, the room quiet except for the soft lapping of the water in the tub. Slowly, you undressed yourself, feeling the warmth of the bath beckoning you. When you finally stepped in, the water enveloped you, soothing every ache from the long journey.

You sank deeper into the bath, closing your eyes and letting the warmth relax your body. Here, alone, the weight of the world felt lighter. The tension you had carried for so long began to melt away, and for the first time in what felt like forever, you allowed yourself to simply be.

WATER GARDENS, DORNE — EVENING

The evening air was warm as you stepped onto the terrace of the Water Gardens, the scent of citrus trees and the distant sound of trickling water surrounding you. Lanterns, hung delicately along the stone pillars, cast a soft glow over the long table where a simple yet elegant feast was laid out. The sky above was painted in soft shades of twilight, a backdrop of deep purples and golds that felt as if it had been created just for this moment.

Your dress—a light, flowing piece with intricate suns embroidered along the edges—shifted with the breeze, reminding you of the delicate balance between feeling exposed and free. You hadn’t quite made peace with showing so much skin, but here in Dorne, no one seemed to care about scars or imperfections. And for once, it was your own hesitation, not the eyes of others, that left you feeling vulnerable.

Oberyn was already there, seated at the head of the table, his eyes finding yours the moment you appeared. A soft smile tugged at his lips, warmth radiating from him in a way that set you at ease. He rose to greet you, his presence commanding yet intimate, making the vast expanse of the terrace feel smaller, more personal.

“You look stunning,” he said, his voice carrying that familiar mix of charm and sincerity. He reached for your hand, brushing his lips against your knuckles in a way that sent a shiver down your spine. “Though I’m certain the gardens pale in comparison.”

You chuckled, trying to shake off the nerves that fluttered in your stomach. “I’m not sure I can compete with all this,” you gestured to the beauty surrounding you—the elegant table, the vibrant colors of the Water Gardens, the night sky overhead. “It’s like stepping into a dream.”

Oberyn’s smile widened as he pulled out a chair for you. “Then let’s make sure the dream is one you never want to wake from.”

As you sat, servants moved gracefully around you, pouring wine into delicate goblets and laying out platters of fruit, roasted meats, and bread still warm from the oven. You shifted in your seat, trying to absorb the sudden attention, feeling a little out of place despite Oberyn’s calming presence.

“Are you always treated like this?” you asked, glancing at him as one servant filled your cup.

“Only when I’m fortunate enough to be dining with such company,” Oberyn replied, his tone teasing. “Though I have a feeling you’ll soon grow used to the luxuries of Dorne.”

You smiled but couldn’t shake the underlying tension. “I’m not sure I ever will.”

Oberyn leaned in slightly, his eyes holding yours. “You don’t have to fit into any mold here. You’re not in King’s Landing anymore. You’re in Dorne, where people live as they are—unapologetically.”

There was something in his gaze that felt reassuring, a reminder that here, with him, you were free from the constraints of the past. You exhaled, the weight of the day lifting slightly from your shoulders.

The conversation between you and Oberyn flowed easily as the evening stretched on. The food was rich, the wine sweeter than anything you’d had in King’s Landing, and yet, despite the grandeur of it all, the simplicity of being in Oberyn’s company felt like the real gift. He spoke of Dorne with pride, recounting stories of its history, its people, and the beauty that stretched beyond the Water Gardens to the deserts and mountains.

“Tomorrow,” he said, his hand resting over yours, “I’ll take you to Sunspear. There is more for you to see, more than even the Water Gardens can offer.”

You smiled, feeling your heart swell with anticipation. “I look forward to it.”

As the night grew darker, and the lanterns flickered softly in the breeze, Oberyn leaned closer. “And tonight,” he whispered, “I’m just glad we’re finally here. Together.”

You couldn’t help but feel a warmth bloom inside you at his words. No matter the uncertainty of what lay ahead, tonight felt like the start of something new—something that didn’t need to be rushed or defined, just lived.

WATER GARDENS, DORNE — LATE NIGHT

The walk to your chambers felt surreal, the weight of the evening's intimacy lingering in the air between you and Oberyn. The stars above cast a silver glow on the winding paths of the Water Gardens, the cool breeze a welcome contrast to the warmth of his hand resting lightly on the small of your back. Each step brought you closer to the privacy of your shared quarters, and with it, the quiet flutter of nerves began to stir in your stomach.

You’d been in his presence for hours now, sharing a meal, stories, and laughter, yet the intimacy of entering a room together felt like crossing an invisible threshold. This was the moment where things might shift, where you couldn’t help but wonder if something was expected tonight.

As Oberyn opened the door to your chambers, the room beyond was as grand as you’d imagined—perhaps even more so. A massive bed with heavy, luxurious fabrics dominated the space, framed by stone walls adorned with intricate Dornish tapestries. The soft light of candles flickered across the room, casting warm, golden hues over everything. It was beautiful, intimate, a room meant for lovers.

Your heart raced as you stepped inside, your thoughts swirling as you tried to steady yourself. Oberyn, sensing your hesitation, moved behind you, his presence a steadying force. His fingers brushed your arm gently, grounding you in the moment.

“You’re nervous,” he said softly, his voice low and comforting.

You turned to face him, biting your lip as your gaze met his. “It’s just... I know you’re used to a certain lifestyle. I don’t want to... disappoint you.”

Oberyn’s brows lifted slightly, a flicker of surprise in his eyes before his expression softened. He reached for your hand, his thumb brushing over your knuckles in a soothing rhythm. “Disappoint me?” he repeated, his tone laced with disbelief. “Do you truly believe that?”

You shrugged, feeling a little foolish now, but the thought had gnawed at you since the moment you’d entered the room. “You’ve always been... free. With others. I just—what if I’m not ready tonight? Will you... find your needs somewhere else?”

A small smile curved his lips, and he stepped closer, his hand gently cupping your cheek. “I won’t lie to you,” he began, his voice a murmur, “I’ve lived my life enjoying pleasure wherever it could be found. But you...” His thumb traced the line of your jaw, sending a shiver down your spine. “With you, I am content to wait. Because when it happens, it will be passionate, raw, and it will be worth every second of restraint.”

His words were like a soothing balm to your nerves, each one sinking into you, wrapping around your fears and quieting them. There was no pressure, no expectation—only the promise of something real, something deeper than just the physical.

“I don’t want you to do anything until you’re ready,” he continued, his lips brushing the crown of your head. “Your consent is more important to me than anything. And if tonight is just us, here in this bed, holding each other, that is more than enough.”

You exhaled, a wave of relief washing over you. “I’ve never been with anyone like you,” you confessed quietly, your voice barely above a whisper.

Oberyn chuckled softly, his arms slipping around your waist and pulling you close. “That’s because there is no one like me,” he teased, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. His lips lingered there, warm and soft against your skin, and you leaned into him, feeling the tension leave your body.

He drew back just enough to look at you, his dark eyes searching yours. “But I promise you this—no matter how long it takes, no matter when you’re ready, I will wait for you. And when that moment comes, it will be ours.”

His sincerity left you breathless. Without thinking, you closed the distance between you, your lips brushing his in a tentative kiss. Oberyn responded instantly, his mouth moving against yours with a softness that made your heart flutter. His hand cradled the back of your head, deepening the kiss just enough to remind you of the passion that simmered beneath his calm exterior, but never pushing, never demanding more than what you offered.

You pulled back, breathless, your forehead resting against his as you smiled. “Thank you,” you whispered, your voice barely audible in the quiet room.

He kissed you again, slower this time, savoring the moment. “There is no need to thank me,” he murmured against your lips. “I told you, you’re in Dorne now. We take our time with everything worth savoring.”

A warmth bloomed inside you, a sense of peace and safety in his arms. You leaned into him, resting your head on his chest, feeling the steady rise and fall of his breath beneath your cheek.

“Let’s get some sleep,” Oberyn whispered, guiding you toward the bed. He pulled back the heavy covers, and you slipped beneath them, the cool fabric against your skin a welcome contrast to the heat that still lingered between you. He joined you, wrapping his arms around your waist and pulling you close until your back was pressed to his chest, his body a comforting shield around you.

The last thing you remembered before sleep claimed you was the sound of Oberyn’s steady breathing and the warmth of his lips as he pressed one final kiss to your shoulder.

There's nothing that needs to happen tonight. You were exactly where you were meant to be.

TAGLIST:

@greenwitchfromthewoods @shessweetsour @christinamadsen

[angelwishess]

Hehe... Like I promised. This is meant to be super silly lmao I was laughing so hard writing some scenes. @screamintoad cuz Jane.

Ivrine wasn't one to care what name anyone used for her, much less address her. However her boyfriend really tended to be… creative with his choices. 

When they first got together, it started off sweet with endearing names that cussed her heart to flutter. The issue though was that Marven was inconsistent with his choices. He called her with a different nickname everyday to the point Ivrine lost count of how many variations she had heard. So she relied on his tone to know who he was talking to and eventually Marven pieced it together. 

Knowing that Ivrine payed more attention to his tone, he began using random nicknames to see how far it'd go. 

“Paint mixer 2000”

“What do you want.”

Eventually Ivrine reached her limit of tolerance. 

. 

. 

The halls felt too silent for a booming place like NRC as Ivrine sat alone at the schools library, searching it's racks for an appropriate reference book to use for her exams. 

Eventually the sound of heavy footsteps approaching began becoming more evident. The rhythm with which the feet struck the ground was unmistakably a result of Marven and she was certain he would barge in, in less than a minute or so. 

Sure enough by the time she sat back down at her table with her books sprawled out in front of her, her boyfriend was leaning onto her shoulders, peeking over her head to see what she was reading. 

“Ultra super sonic hot and gold cheese grating wall hammer! Whatcha reading~? ” 

No response. Marven frowned, poking Ivrine's cheeks to get a reaction out of her as she continued to work. 

“Hey. Are you ignoring me??” 

No response again. Marven sighed, leaning his weight of Ivrine with a pout. 

“If you're mad cuz of the names, I'm sorry just don't ignore me cmon I came all the way from my dorm to meet you and you won't even talk, sea rose.” 

Being met with silence once more Marven sat down besides her attempting to see if he could get her to reply. The seconds ticked by and he remained unsuccessful as Ivrine stood up and grabbed her bag leaving for the door. 

“Hey, wait-! ” 

Before Marven could get his sentence out however Ivrine had left as he remained sat at the table, sulking. 

. 

. 

. 

“Could you please pass me the stirrer, Evelio?” 

“Of Course, Ivrine. However, I have a question if you don't mind. ”

“Ask away. ” 

“Marv has been feeling down since yesterday to the point even Binnie’s treat did little in improving his mood. Any idea why?” 

Huh… Ivrine didn't expect him to take it that hard. Come to think of it, she hadn't seen her bf the entire day either and this was the last class…

“Are u listening?”

“Ah,apologies I zoned out but I don't have any clue as to why he is moping about.”

“I see.”

The final bell rang, indicating the end of the day as Ivrine hurried back to her dorm. If Marven really did take it to heart, then she'll need to make up to him. 

The students at heartslabyul seemed to be much more present today. It was rare to see so many stick around and they all seemed to be talking amongst themselves. Did something happen that she missed? 

“OH yea and Marven is such a great guy right? He cares sooooo much for Ivrine” 

Ah. So that's what this is. She should've known. 

Surely enough she figured out the scheme. Multiple students were gossiping amongst themselves “discreetly” about how Marven is. Whether they were threatened or joined in out of free will was unclear and something she'll look into late-

“Uh oh! It seems as if I have accidentally broken one of the Queens saucers.”

What.

Quickly following the voice, she was met with Jane surrounded by broken glass. However before she could say something an arm stretched out infront of her. 

“Heh… Don't worry babe I got this.”

Above all, the scene was painful to watch. Ivrine could appreciate the effort but the execution of the plan was terrible. Seeing Marven “scold” Jane and “Forcing” her to pick up the broken shards and clean up the mess. It was all so stupid… but cute. 

“You're a hopeless lot, you know that.” 

Hearing Ivrine speak to him again, Marven quickly turned around to face her, pleased that his plan had worked only to be yanked down by his tie and kissed. It was over before he could even process it as Ivrine began to make her way to her room but stopped.

“Oh and Jane. You have double hedgehog duty next week. And if you don't follow through, I'll lock you up in the rose maze the entire night. ” 

“WHAT WHY? WHAT DID I DO?” 

“You broke my favorite saucer.” 

ADDIE OH MY GOD THIS IS SO GOOD IT aCTUALLY HAS ME GIGGLINGGG THIS IS SUCH A NICE SURPRISE TO WAKE UP TO LMAOAOAOOI 😭😭

ULTRA SUPER SONIC HOT AND GOLD CHEESE GRATING WALL HAMMERRRR ??????? MARVEN IS SUCH AN ANNOYYING DORK I HATE HIM HELEPP…

HE’D DEF DO THE MOST CLICHE THINGS EVER TO TRY AND GET HER ATTENTION😭😭 my dude thinks this is highschool musical or smth😭

ADDIE ILYSM THIS IS SO PERFECT AUAUAUAUUU

Rip Jane shes totally going to get Marven back for this LMAOO

[rp-partnerfinder]

Searching for partners to write Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon roleplays! I am 18+ and my partner must be 18+ as well. Here is some information about me:

Willing to write via tumblr or discord

Willing to double (any gender, any pairing, any character)

Prefers writing as dominant male characters

Reply schedule varies, but I am communicative about extended absence

Prefers writing in third-person

Stories will include nsfw/smut scene ideally

Fine with Dark themes!

I am looking for someone to play Alicent Hightower for me! I am willing to play anyone you want in return from either show - GoT or HotD and I will certainly give your preferred pairing the same, equal attention.

I would like to pair her with my male OC Targaryen.

Background/Plot Information: I am aware that the type of plot below is probably not very typical of the GoT world. I simply enjoy happy romances and I would love to create a story and an OC who gives Alicent exactly that. Additionally, this plot is very much an AU where some major events are changed, but it is still the HotD world we know and love! I attempted to bold some of the major differences from the roleplay and the show. There will still be plenty of drama and action too, I promise!

Jaenys Targaryen (my OC) is the second child and only son of King Viserys I Targaryen and Queen Aemma Arryn

He is born nearly 2 years after his sister, Rhaenyra

After Rhaenyra's birth, Aemma barely survives. Maesters determine that she is incapable of childbearing again. Despite trying, they have no luck. Thus, Viserys names Rhaenyra as his heir

Almost two years later, Aemma miraculously births Jaenys. She dies during childbirth, but the baby survives

Even though he is the only male descendant, Viserys refuses to go back on his word and insists that Rhaenyra will take the Iron Throne after he passes

This plotline allows a central conflict from the show to still exist in our roleplay: Many in King's Landing disagree with his decision, especially since he now has a male heir

It means our divide becomes Jaenys versus Rhaenyra instead of Aegon versus Rhaenyra as we know in the show

Raised in the Red Keep, he was groomed to inherit Dragonstone. Growing up, he was very close with Rhaenyra, and even when he became old enough to understand the political tensions, her being named heir honestly did not bother him

Along with being close to his sister, he developed an even closer friendship with Alicent Hightower

Their friendship blossomed into a romantic love. This was celebrated by King Viserys, who believed in their genuine affection

Behind the scenes, however, Otto Hightower began to scheme - seeing an opportunity to elevate Jaenys as a rival to Rhaenyra for the Iron Throne. He envisioned Alicent as Queen and Jaenys as the future king. Otto saw no reason why he would be removed as Hand in such a scenario, providing his family with a great deal of power and influence in Westeros. He believes that Jaenys' weak spot for his daughter can be exploited, that he can be malleable

Viserys grants the marriage between his son and Alicent instead of Viserys marrying Alicent. In this version, he remains unmarried (unless you have an idea for his second wife that would work better, then I'm all ears!)

When the King dies, Otto is the one beside him. He decides to lie to the small council and claim that during his dying breath, Viserys expressed regret for not naming his son as the heir, asking that Otto makes sure that Jaenys is coronated after all

Obviously, this is not what happened. However, so many already support the claim Jaenys has to the Throne that nobody questions it, and this serves as a catalyst for us to begin with events of the show!

Note: I am open to your ideas and thoughts on any changes that you might like to see!

Face claim: I love asking for my partner's preferred face claim. As with his Targaryen lineage, his hair would be a silver/blondish color, but the face can be whatever you please! If you're interested, please interact and I will reach out or message me there on Tumblr!

,

[un-unavoidableanxiousball]

✨ Meowpheus ✨

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<- Previous Part Next Part ->

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Masterlist

Prompt used: "What's So Funny?", Don't Make Me Laugh

Rating: Teen and Up

Fandom: The Sandman

Pairing: Dream of The Endless/Hob Gadling

Characters: Hob Gadling, Dream of The Endless, Desire of The Endless, Lucienne, Matthew

Tags: fluff, possible out of character, terrible advice, attempt at humor,

Warnings: none

Word count: 1743

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Dream of The Endless doesn't regret anything, especially if said things were forethought or downright planned. As of right now he's curled up on Hob Gadling's lap who's preparing notes for the next lesson - now and again receiving head scratches he's delighting in. And in that moment Hob's hand comes down to scratch behind his ear. Dream automatically closes his eyes and leans in. Half a minute later he lifts his hand, while chuckling at Dream's protesting meow.

If he literally purrs everytime it happens; Dream will never breathe a single word of.

Where was he? Ah, yes. He'll never go along Desire's schemes ever again. Here he is, in his cat form, unable to change. With that wretched collar around his neck he's rendered incapable of manipulating his form in any way.

Lately Dream has been wondering if this really was such a good idea. While being Hob's cat has been shockingly exceptional experience and at the same time not at all surprising. Having said that Hob's kindness and care put Dream off kilter making him feel as if he takes advantage of Hob. Which in turn is only a small piece of the whole picture considering what made him ask for his sibling's help.

── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──────────────── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Dream makes his way to the library to return a novel "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens to its rightful place. After putting it back, Dream reaches for another, this time "If I Ever Get Out of Here" by Eric Gansworth. He turns to leave only to be met with Lucienne who's expression was curious with a hint of concern. A spark of irritation lit up at being interrupted, Dream quickly puts it out. "Lucienne." He nods.

"Do you require more assistance, my Lord? Recently the number of your visits to the library have greatly increased;" his librarian inquires, "Furthermore seeing the Dreaming's overcast weather, it reveals that you, Lord Morpheus, are at an impasse, caught in indecision. Therefore have been searching for insight."

"I suppose I, indeed, have found myself at a crossroad." Dream muses, "Months have passed in the Waking since I last met with Hob...I find I wish to visit him sooner."

"What stops you my Lord?"

"Seeing how he wasn't cross with me leaving as I did in 1889. I'd like to finally tell him my name. He's long overdue." He glances away. "However I fear, if I share it, the novelty will wear off..." He hesitates, "He'll grow to realise how appalling, rotten and broken I am. He takes me to be a mystifying and outlandish being which granted him immortality. While I might be those to him, with time they would give way to the more jarring ignorant, cruel, malicious abnormality and torment."

"If I may, sir? I don't think Hob would change his opinions of you that greatly, nor do I think him capable of discarding your friendship that quickly and easily. He was the one to offer his friendship and as you pointed out - he has accepted you upon return." Dream loosens his grip on the book, not sure when he started to tighten his hold. "But if one opinion doesn't suffice my Lord, you can always turn to your family for council."

"Thank you Lucienne. I shall consider it." With a nod Dream walks out.

Lucienne sighs and walks back to her desk. Moments later Matthew lands on the lamp's neck and caws. "That went pretty well. Right? For a minute there I thought you'd get struck by lightning!"

"It might have just looked like it Matthew. In fact since his return, Lord Morpheus makes an effort to ask for help and listen to advice. The fact that it didn't take that long to get him to open up about this dilemma clearly proves that."

Matthew fidgets in place. "What dilemma? It's pretty obvious to me that both of them are head over heels in love. And I saw them meeting. From afar. The amount of sexual tension there, was just-" he shudders-"nope, too much for me, definitely. Needed gallons of holy water after THAT." Lucienne's smile widens at Matthew's antics.

"Let's hope a talk with Death will point him in right direction."

『••✎••』

Slightly dreading upcoming conversation, Dream braces himself. Although his sibling's insight might prove to be valuable. Definitely has the capacity for when not busy scheming. "Desire, I stand in my gallery and hold your sigil, I seek your council, may I come through?"

"Go right ahead, Sweet Dream~"

In moments Dream steps into The Threshold. "I've never known you to be able of asking for help. What is it that you desire that you came all the way from The Dreaming to little old me?" They tease with a smirk, flicking their tail lazily.

"It concerns Hob Gadling." He said narrowing his brows.

"Who is he? Should I know him? Sounds boring." Dream grits his teeth in irritation at Desire's fake obliviousness and disinterest. "You know very well who it is I speak of."

Desire dramatically pulls back and puts their hand to their chest. "You wound me Sweet Dream, I know not of who that 'Hob Gadling' is. I have other things to do than torment and plot against you; shocking I know."

"He's the immortal human I've been meeting every century. Seeing as I failed to meet him in 1989 because of you, I plan to visit him more frequently. As he still favours our friendship." Desire considers their brother's statement. " Is that his name? I always wondered. Did you say Friends?" they grin, "Your heart tells me otherwise. What I don't know is what part of this concerns me?"

"I want your scheming hands away from him." At that Desire rolls their eyes. "If that's all you needed, then rest assured I didn't come nowhere near your precious little crush. And he's feelings are his own; I didn't influence him in any way." Dream relaxes, but only a bit. He has yet to go straight to the point of this visit.

"Besides I really don't understand how that poor soul went ahead and fell in love with you. Clearly it wasn't your fashion sense that did it. I suppose I must congratulate you. He sees something in you worth loving." Desire observes Dream, takes in how Dream seems to hold something back, hesitant. "What is it that truly brings you here? Spit it out."

"I came..." If one would put a squished lemon next to Dream's face at this moment, Desire wouldn't see any difference."...for advice. In 1889 I refused Hob's friendship, which he forgave me for. Yet again I've done him a disservice by withholding my name. If I were to aspire for more, I'd have to share it. However I fear in doing so, Hob will realise the mistake he made."

Dream is insecure. Sure given his relationship history it's not even surprising. But to come to them? Hob must be special indeed. They should feel honoured; But ultimately Desire couldn't help themself and bursts out laughing. "Oh Brother! You're making me laugh - please stop." They say trying to catch their breath. "What is it that you find so hilarious, sibling? My misery?"

""What's so funny?" he asks! It's your stupidity." They cackle. "So you won't assist. I shall take my leave." "Don't be like that. But fine I'll help you test the waters. But we're doing it my way."

『••✎••』

"That's your great idea?" Dream scowls.

"Have anything better in mind?" they argue back, "In fact this includes every thing you mentioned. First - you get all the TLC your heart desires." Desire raises their index finger and then their middle one. "Second - you get to see his human everyday life. Third - you can test Hob's boundries, see his reactions when pushed and not get rejected in the process." They tap their raised ring finger in thought. Desire make a dramatic shocked face. "Ah yess!" Their pinky joins the other fingers. "Fourth, my favourite~, you get to appriciate his oh so ever, without a doubt in your mind, attractive assets." Desire purrs with a cheshire-like grin.

Dream ignores them. "I'll have to inform Lucienne of my extended absence from The Dreaming."

"See you in a moment, Sweet Dream.~"

『••✎••』

"Lucienne, I'm planning to spend some time in The Waking for foreseeable future. I wish not to be disturbed unless it requires immediate attention." Dream speaks, and in the process scares Matthew. His raven flails cawing at his sudden appearance.

"Am I to understand the conversation went smoothly, sir?" She questions unstartled.

"Perhaps. I expect to receive weekly updates from Matthew, when I'm not otherwise engaged."

"Hey Boss? Isn't staying in the Waking *caw* dangerous for you or something? *Caw* With you getting captured and all?" Matthew tilts his head.

"While your concern is touching, it is unnecessary. I'll be in capable hands." He reassures the raven and then turns to his librarian. "I'll be leaving in a few moments. I trust you to do well looking after The Dreaming."

Lucienne lowers her head. "I won't disappoint sir."

『••✎••』

"There you are Little Dream." Desire says after noticing a black cat sitting on the floor. The cat's shoots daggers their way. "What? If we're to meet Hob like this, I might as well look the part." Desire gestures at themself, then kneel down in front of Dream. "Besides that includes you too." They reveal a black collar, the bow's ribbon covered in a mockery of a night-sky pattern. Dream didn't get time to brace himself, his sibling taking advantage of his inattention, fastens the collar around his neck. "Now we're set." They pick him up. "Let's go to Hob, shall we?"

── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──────────────── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

A temporary lapse in judgement, Dream vows not to let it happen again. Desire was right about the advantages; however they avoided telling him about the negatives - like guilt. Instead of bravely approaching Hob, he planned. To make matters worse, he went to the one sibling that likes to mess with him. Hob deserves better.

"Come on, Dream. Let's eat then head on upstairs yeah?" Hob rubs his thumb along Dream's head. Dream gives an answering meow, then jumps off Hob's lap to stretch himself.

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<- Previous Part Next Part ->

@fandom-free-bingo I got carried away. TwT I tried to write crack treated seriously..but I got confused along the way. And now idk if I managed that or not. :/

Tell me if rating is incorrect or other tags for that matter.

[cipher04]

House of the Dragon/Game of Thrones Roleplay (willing to double!)

Searching for partners to write Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon roleplays! I am 18+ and my partner must be 18+ as well. Here is some information about me:

Willing to write via tumblr or discord

Willing to double (any gender, any pairing, any character)

Prefers writing as dominant male characters

Reply schedule varies, but I am communicative about extended absence

Prefers writing in third-person

Stories will include nsfw/smut scene ideally

Fine with Dark themes!

I am looking for someone to play Alicent Hightower for me! I am willing to play anyone you want in return from either show - GoT or HotD and I will certainly give your preferred pairing the same, equal attention.

I would like to pair her with my male OC Targaryen.

Background/Plot Information: I am aware that the type of plot below is probably not very typical of the GoT world. I simply enjoy happy romances and I would love to create a story and an OC who gives Alicent exactly that. Additionally, this plot is very much an AU where some major events are changed, but it is still the HotD world we know and love! I attempted to bold some of the major differences from the roleplay and the show. There will still be plenty of drama and action too, I promise!

Jaenys Targaryen (my OC) is the second child and only son of King Viserys I Targaryen and Queen Aemma Arryn

He is born nearly 2 years after his sister, Rhaenyra

After Rhaenyra's birth, Aemma barely survives. Maesters determine that she is incapable of childbearing again. Despite trying, they have no luck. Thus, Viserys names Rhaenyra as his heir

Almost two years later, Aemma miraculously births Jaenys. She dies during childbirth, but the baby survives

Even though he is the only male descendant, Viserys refuses to go back on his word and insists that Rhaenyra will take the Iron Throne after he passes

This plotline allows a central conflict from the show to still exist in our roleplay: Many in King's Landing disagree with his decision, especially since he now has a male heir

It means our divide becomes Jaenys versus Rhaenyra instead of Aegon versus Rhaenyra as we know in the show

Raised in the Red Keep, he was groomed to inherit Dragonstone. Growing up, he was very close with Rhaenyra, and even when he became old enough to understand the political tensions, her being named heir honestly did not bother him

Along with being close to his sister, he developed an even closer friendship with Alicent Hightower

Their friendship blossomed into a romantic love. This was celebrated by King Viserys, who believed in their genuine affection

Behind the scenes, however, Otto Hightower began to scheme - seeing an opportunity to elevate Jaenys as a rival to Rhaenyra for the Iron Throne. He envisioned Alicent as Queen and Jaenys as the future king. Otto saw no reason why he would be removed as Hand in such a scenario, providing his family with a great deal of power and influence in Westeros. He believes that Jaenys' weak spot for his daughter can be exploited, that he can be malleable

Viserys grants the marriage between his son and Alicent instead of Viserys marrying Alicent. In this version, he remains unmarried (unless you have an idea for his second wife that would work better, then I'm all ears!)

When the King dies, Otto is the one beside him. He decides to lie to the small council and claim that during his dying breath, Viserys expressed regret for not naming his son as the heir, asking that Otto makes sure that Jaenys is coronated after all

Obviously, this is not what happened. However, so many already support the claim Jaenys has to the Throne that nobody questions it, and this serves as a catalyst for us to begin with events of the show!

Note: I am open to your ideas and thoughts on any changes that you might like to see!

Face claim: I love asking for my partner's preferred face claim. As with his Targaryen lineage, his hair would be a silver/blondish color, but the face can be whatever you please! If you're interested, please interact and I will reach out, or you can add me on discord at fandomfan0404.

[dancersmirrorball]

Taylor Swift Midnights Sentence Starters

Tracks 1-4

"You don't really read into my melancholia."

"I've been under scrutiny, you handle it beautifully."

"I'm damned if I do give a damn what people say."

"They're bringing up my history, but you weren't even listening."

"Talk your talk and go viral, I just need this love spiral."

"Get it off your chest, get it off my desk."

"We lost track of time again."

"How'd we end up on the floor anyway?"

"I see you every day now."

"The lips I used to call home, so scarlet it was maroon."

"Ain't that the way, shit always ends?"

"I wake with your memory over me, that's a real fucking legacy to leave."

"All of the people, I've ghosted stand there in the room."

"I end up in crisis, tale as old as time."

"I wake up screaming from dreaming."

"I'll stare directly at the sun but never in the mirror."

"One day I'll watch as you're leaving, and life will lose all of it's meaning."

"She's/he's/they're laughing up at us from hell."

"I saw flecks of what could've been lights, but it might just have been you passing by unbeknownst to me."

"Life is emotionally abusive."

"My flight was awful, thanks for asking."

"You wanting me tonight feels impossible."

"It's fine to fake it 'til you make it."

"I can't speak, afraid to jinx it."

Tracks 5-8"

"I play it cool with the best of them."

"It's ok we're the best of friends."

"You're on your own kid, you always have been."

"I gave my blood, sweat and tears for this."

"Everything you lose is a step you take."

"You've got no reason to be afraid."

"My town was a wasteland."

"But for some it was paradise."

"he/she/they wanted it comfortable, I wanted that pain."

"I was making my own name, chasing that fame."

"All of me changed like midnight rain."

"I guess sometimes we all get some kind of haunted."

"Big city, wrong choices."

"You painted all my nights, a color I have searched for since."

"Can I ask you a question?"

"Did you ever have someone kiss you in a crowded room?"

"It was one drink, after another."

"That's nice I'm sure, that's what's suitable and right but tonight."

"Draw the cat eye sharp enough to kill a man."

"You did some bad things, but I'm the worst of them."

"They say looks can kill, and I might try."

"Lately I've been dressing for revenge."

"Picture me thick as thieves with your ex wife/husband/spouse."

"I'm on my vigilante shit again.

Tracks 9-12

"Didn't notice you walking all over my peace of mind, in the shoes I gave you as a present."

"Putting someone first only works, when you're in their top five."

"By the way, I'm going out tonight."

"I can still make the whole place shimmer."

"Sadness became my whole sky."

"A diamond's gotta shine."

"It only hurts this much right now."

"Breathe in, breathe deep, breathe through, breathe out."

"I'll be getting over you, my whole life."

"Oh no, I'm falling in love again."

"Lost in the labyrinth of my mind."

"You would break your back to make me break a smile."

"You're talking shit, for the hell of it."

"You're terrified to look down."

"It's coming back around."

"I keep my side of the street clean, you wouldn't know what I mean."

"Ask me what I've learned from all those years, ask me what I've earned from all those tears."

"Ask me why so many fade, but I'm still here."

"We almost forgot it."

"They said the end is coming, everyone's up to something."

"All that you ever wanted from me was sweet nothing."

"On the way home, I wrote a poem."

"You should be doing more."

"I'm just too soft for all of it."

Tracks 13-17

"You and I ended up in the same room, at the same time."

"Checkmate, I couldn't lose."

"What if I told you none of it was accidental?"

"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail."

"No-one wanted to play with me as a little kid, so I've been scheming like a criminal ever since."

"This is the first time I've felt the need to confess."

"Spineless in my tomb of silence."

"Maybe it was egos swinging, maybe it was her/him/them."

"I vowed not to cry anymore."

"You said I have to trust more freely."

"Maybe it's the past that's talking, screaming from the crypt."

"It turned into something bigger, somewhere in the haze, got a sense I'd been betrayed."

"No words appear before me in the aftermath."

"Every single thing I touch becomes sick with sadness."

"Cause it's all over now, all out to sea."

"You were bigger than the whole sky."

"I've got a lot to live without."

"So I'll say words I don't believe."

"And all the outfits were terrible, 2003 unbearable."

"Did you see the photos?"

"No I didn't, but thanks though."

"I'm so in love that I might stop breathing."

"Like we were somewhere else."

"I wanna brainwash you into loving me forever."

"I didn't know you were keeping count."

"Put on your records and regret me."

"I bent the truth too far tonight."

"Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?"

"Seemed like the right thing at the time."

"There's many different ways that you could kill the one you love, the slowest way is never loving them enough."

Tracks 18-20 + Hits Different & You're Losing Me

"We were supposed to be just friends."

"You don't live in my part of town, but maybe I'll see you out some weekend."

"I think there's been a glitch."

"Nights are so starry, blood moonlit."

"Must be counterfeit."

"I thought we had no chance, and that's romance."

"All I used to do was pray."

"And I damn sure never would have danced with the devil."

"The god's honest truth is that the pain was heaven."

"Memories feel like weapons."

"God rest my soul, I miss who I used to be."

"If clarity's in death then why won't this die?"

"If it feels like a trap, you're already in one."

"If you don't recognize yourself, that means you did it right."

"Never take advice from someone who's falling apart."

"When you aim at the devil, make sure you don't miss."

"So I wander through these nights, I prefer hiding in plain sight."

"You should find another guiding light."

"You made a mess of me."

Each bar plays our song, nothing has ever felt so wrong."

"Oh my, love is a lie; shit my friends say to get me by."

"Moving on was always easy for me to do."

"My sadness is contagious."

"Is it okay? Is it you? Or have they come to take me away?"

"We thought a cure would come through in time, now I fear it won't."

"Now I just sit in the dark and wonder if it's time."

"I'm getting tired even for a phoenix."

"I know my pain is such an imposition."

"I wouldn't marry me either, a pathological people pleaser who only wanted you to see her/him/them."

"I've got nothing to believe, unless you're choosing me."

[sednonamoris]

blood of the covenant

Pairing: John Marston x gn!reader

Summary: Arthur and Abigail make a promise. You and John have a chance to find out what that means for you, if you’re brave enough.

Warnings: Christian religious imagery/blasphemy, strong language, canon-typical substance use and abuse, mild fluff

Word count: 2,432

A/N: Chapter 20, and what a milestone she is!! I hope you all enjoy this one as much as me - it was an absolute joy to write 🥰

Series masterlist • AO3

—

The threat of Pinkertons so close to camp has everyone on edge, especially since the law found you as quickly as it did in Scarlett Meadows. Everyone but Dutch, it seems. You and Arthur both agree that you should’ve moved camp by now, but you haven’t, and life must go on, so the robbing and killing has hardly stopped on that account.

Camp life is business as usual.

Ms. Grimshaw watches over all, holding the girls to a punishing standard. Dutch schemes. Hosea worries. The boys terrorize Valentine’s saloons and homesteads and lonely dirt roads. Pearson takes every opportunity to talk about his Navy days over a daily pot of stew filled with game that Charles brings in. Reverend Swanson oscillates between fits of passion and pain and morphine melancholy. Uncle can be found propped up napping anywhere and everywhere. Sometimes you stick a boot in his ribs as you pass just to make sure he’s still alive.

John, for his part, is consumed entirely by his sheep rustling scheme. He splits his days between Emerald Ranch and Valentine’s stockyards, which is probably for the best because Arthur and Abigail haven’t been shy about playing happy family with Jack. It’s like the tentative truce forged after the train job between brothers is all Arthur needed to open the cracked shell of his heart fully. The way he looks at Abigail - the way she looks at him - tugs at heartstrings you’d thought long-severed. Mrs. Adler watches them from the edge of camp with a wistful look in her burnt-barn eyes, mouth caught between a smile and a snarl. Even Kieran stutters out a comment about how sweet they seem when he’s sure Arthur won’t hear.

Trusting in how peaceful— how happy things have been is hard, but you can’t say you miss the tension and misery from before. It’s… nice. It feels nice.

—

You’re more surprised than you should be when Arthur and Abigail come up to you, eyes bright and cheeks flushed and looking so strikingly young, to tell you they’re getting married. In town. Today.

“We just need a witness,” Arthur says. The asking is implied.

“Can’t you take Mary-Beth? She loves this sort of thing,” you try to deflect, caught between joy and discomfort. “I doubt there’s a church they’d let me in, even.”

It’s not that you aren’t happy for them - you’re thrilled. But to actually go with them and sign documents and make things official in the eyes of the law and the God you’re on such bad terms with? It feels like a lot. It feels a little like a betrayal, still. Your eyes search for some kind of comfort in John’s figure across camp, but it’s in vain. If anything, it reminds you how precarious this joy is. How a selfish part of you wishes to lay claim to more of it.

“We want it to be you,” Abigail smiles.

You shouldn’t.

But her eyes are pleading. You start to wilt under the happiness and hope that shines through them like the sun. “Please, Ghost.”

You’re not sure how anyone’s ever said no to her, the way she blinks up through her lashes and grasps your hand in hers and smiles so sweet. And Arthur is no better. It’s hard to remember a time he’s been so happy. So hopeful. The broadness of his frame has taken on a boyish lightness that wasn’t there even when he was a boy.

Shit.

“Fine,” you finally relent. “I guess I know the Reverend in town.”

The relief and excitement on their faces is almost worth the knot of nerves in your stomach.

—

“My friend!” Reverend Hampton calls out when he spies your approach.

You make to shake his hand but he pulls you in for a hug instead. You return it awkwardly and flash a bashful grin. “Reverend, these are my good friends, Arthur and Abigail. They’d… Well, they’d like to be married today. Can you help us?”

His smile, broad and warm and maybe even a little smug, is all the answer you need.

While he procures the necessary documents the three of you fidget near the altar in an otherwise empty church. Muted rays of midday sun fight their way past cloud cover to reflect greens and reds and golds through stained glass. It paints the French blue of Abigail’s finest dress mosaic, like she’s some kind of Mother Mary that walked right out of a window pane. She alternates between clutching the bouquet of wildflowers that Tilly helped Jack pick to her chest and beaming up at Arthur. He stands stiffly opposite her in a suit that doesn’t quite fit, itching at the collar. His returning smiles are a crooked and genuine show of teeth, like he still can’t believe he made it this far. Like his body has a hard time accommodating happiness this size. He’s spent so long in self-inflicted loneliness.

Maybe you have, too.

All four of you cry and laugh in equal measure when the vows are exchanged. Forever recited back in different shades of blue. Arthur places the ring on Abigail’s finger so delicately it makes your heart ache. He kisses her just as tender, just as careful. You look away and wipe at your tears. The Reverend pronounces them man and wife. Arthur prints his name on the marriage certificate afterwards in careful, elegant script. You both smile encouragingly when Abigail signs her X on the line beside it.

Yours fits just off to the side. You have to stop yourself from signing Ghost.

“You know,” Arthur says to the Reverend as you all turn to leave, “we know a Reverend. He ain’t nothin’ like you.”

Reverend Hampton’s expression manages to be both serene and amused. “Every Shepherd has his flock. I am honored to have been trusted with his today.”

You snort. “Figures you’d say somethin’ like that.”

Arthur and Abigail go on ahead to the wagon hand in hand. It’s impossible to miss, decked out as it is in the tinsel and bells Mary-Beth scrounged up to make it appropriately romantic. You linger a moment longer at the chapel’s threshold with the Reverend.

“Thank you for this,” you say. Your eyes trace the joy on your dear friends’ faces. “Feels like I’m always in your debt.”

“Nonsense, my child. I am in yours. You have brought life and love here - that’s all an old man could wish for. But please,” he says, and turns to squeeze your hands in his, “do not squander this chance at your own happiness.”

You tuck your chin and stare at your boots while embarrassment burns from your chest to your cheeks. “I’ll try.”

He smiles. “That’s all we can ever do in this life. Go in peace.”

—

You drive the wagon home to the sound of hoofbeats and tinkling bells and laughter and love. It starts raining along the way, light and clean. Lances of sunlight beam through the clouds.

—

“Mr. Morgan,” Dutch greets, a shine in his dark eyes. “Mrs. Morgan. We sure are glad to have you back.”

Jack runs up past everyone with shrieking laughter. “You’re so pretty, Momma!”

And she is. A vision in blue, swept up in Arthur’s embrace. He carries her down from the wagon just to hear her laugh.

The girls coo over the ring on her finger while the boys shake Arthur by the shoulder with grins wide enough to swallow him whole. Choruses of that ring is so pretty and you finally grew some balls and I bet the church was nice inside and can’t believe you squeezed into that suit and won’t you spin for us form that familiar symphony of family you’ve come to count on all these years.

John lingers on the periphery of it all, but he makes a point of stepping forward and shaking Arthur’s hand before the dancing starts. He reaches for Abigail’s hands and murmurs something close to congratulations.

“Thank you, John,” Abigail says through shining tears. A little sad. A little overjoyed. A little relieved, even.

Arthur can’t find the right words, but his eyes say it all for him.

“Sure,” John grimaces a smile, “sure. You two… be well. Really.”

They whisk away to the sound of music crackling from Dutch’s gramophone, leaving him beside you with a half-broke heart. John shakes his head at the silent question posed by the tilt of your head, so you settle on the edge of the celebration to watch them whirl in ¾ time. They’re given time enough for a few twirls and dips all their own before the others start to join in.

The rain hasn’t let up. But sometimes it’s good to dance in the rain, and it’s not so damp yet that you can’t light a cigarette. You inhale deep and sigh out smoke before passing it to John without a word. He always ends up bumming off you anyway.

“Was it nice?” he asks through smoke-filled lungs. His gaze never strays from the happy couple.

“Yeah,” you say, then huff half of a laugh. “Made me cry.”

He eyes you without turning away from the dancing. “Really?”

“Really. That goddamn Reverend always gets me… weepy and shit.”

“Easy with the blasphemy, there.” A smile ghosts across his face.

“Or what? I’ll be struck down by lightning?” you scoff. “Be doin’ me a favor. Then I won’t have to listen to you ask about things you don’t wanna know.”

“Shut up,” he says, but he’s smiling now. It’s one of the real ones - one of the rare ones - that goes a little lopsided and softens the sharp flint of his eyes. You’re unreasonably proud of yourself for it.

He turns to face you, now, hesitant. Something about the way he looks at you makes you shift in place. “What?”

“Do you…” he starts awkwardly, clears his throat. Holds out a hand. “Will you dance with me?”

You look at his hand, then at him. It’s hard to hide your smile, so you give up trying. “Long as you don’t step on my feet.”

“Can’t promise that,” he laughs an awkward little laugh as he takes your hand and leads you into the fray.

The song playing now isn’t quite as upbeat, so the tempo is a little easier on his two left feet. You let him lead through the simpler steps and take charge when he falters through the more difficult sequences. It’s a perfect give and take. He even manages not to squash your toes.

“I know this ain’t an easy thing,” you say lowly, so only he can hear you over the music. “Can I ask how you’re feeling now?”

He sighs. “I feel… I don’t know. Fine, I guess. I reckon Abigail was right about—” he cuts himself off there and swallows. His cheeks stain red past the rain. He can’t look you in the eye.

“Right about what?”

“Nothin’. Me and her not bein’ right.”

The song ends, so he spins you out one last time and then you face one another with a bow before melding back into the edge of things. He grabs a beer for each of you from a nearby crate. There’s more there, something you know you’re missing, but you don’t press. Feels like you never do. Instead you clink your bottle to his drink to new beginnings. To things working out the way they’re meant to.

—

The rain clears up just before the sun sets and paints the sky in dewey blues and golds past the few lavender clouds that remain. Silk dresses and wedding bands. Songbird wings and sunshine. Happiness. Hope.

—

Arthur is busy being newly married and tying up loose ends for Strauss, so when the time comes just a few days later John brings you in on his sheep scheme instead. It’s a simple enough thing to scare off the ranchers and take over their wooly charges. You’ve done a bit of farm work here and there, and Moonshine has a real knack for it. Old Boy is less interested in the sheep, but John does a decent job for a man without any real experience.

You run them into Valentine with little trouble.

Trouble comes instead from the foreman at the stockyard who eyes the both of you, scarred and mean, with suspicion. You guess you can’t blame him.

“Fine sheep,” John says. He’s awful proud of himself.

The man shrugs. “They’re alright.”

“You got much better?” you say, but you already know where this is headed.

“I got plenty with less… ambiguity about their provenance.” He makes a point of eyeing your beat up clothes and unconcealed weapons.

“Those are real fancy words, mister. Not sure I take your meaning.”

He doesn’t smile. “I’ll make it simple, then. You give me twenty-five percent kick back and I don’t say nothin’ to nobody.”

“The fuck do you think I look like?” you snarl, stepping up in his face. A scam is a fine idea, but getting scammed yourself? You don’t take kindly to that.

He doesn’t flinch. “I think you look like a low-down criminal, and I know folk swing for rustlin’ ‘round these parts. Twenty-five percent. I won’t say it again.”

You open your mouth to argue but John grabs your shoulder to pull you back and steps forward in your place. “Fifteen.”

“Twenty.”

They haggle back and forth while you stew in your discontent and glare at the other hands until they finally shake on eighteen. You shake as well with a look that could kill, but don’t say another word until you and John make it back to the horses hitched a little ways away.

“Eighteen? Really?”

“Like you could do better. I mean what were you gonna do? Beat him? Kill him? Then what?”

You scoff, but it’s hard to argue his point. “Fine. I guess it’s better than nothin’.”

“You’re damn right it is. This worked out, relax.” He mounts up. “Dutch wanted me to meet him and Arthur at the saloon. I’ll see you at camp?”

“Sure,” you say. “Try not to get so drunk you can’t find your way back. It’s only noon.”

He laughs. “I’ll try. It’s been that kind of week.”

It sure has.

You ride back at an easy lope on a loose rein, enjoying the day and the lightness in your chest that’s been there since the wedding. A bad deal on good sheep feels like nothing at all compared to that. Nothing at all.

By the time the gunfire sounds, you’re too far away to hear it.

[lylahammar]

TW Fatphobia, self worth issues

Hey so I have a question and it's cool if you don't want to answer because I don't want to make you uncomfortable, but how you find someone who's willing to date you while fat? I've been fat ever since I hit puberty and I've never found someone even willing to give me a chance, much less actually appreciate my body, despite being very extroverted and asking out lots of people I've been attracted to. Most of the time people legitimately looked horrified and weren't exactly nice with their rejections of me, while the nicest were very firm that they'd never give me a chance because of my body. I'm 23 and I know that that's super young in the scheme of things and that worth doesn't come from people being attracted to you, but the persistent rejection on the basis of my appearance has done a real number on me and my self worth at this point, especially knowing that I'm a trans guy and autistic on top of it which doesn't help people liking or appreciating me. I kind of doubt that anyone will tolerate my body, much less actually like it at this point, so I was wondering if you had any advice because I really like your fat positivity stuff and you seem to be in a very happy relationship. Thanks for any advice you might have!!

Hello!! This is a little bit of a tough question since there is never one perfect solution to social situations like this, but I'll try my best 😅

I think that a really good idea for fat people trying to date is to engage with fat positive communities. For example, my girlfriend found me through my TMA comics, and she was attracted to the way that I draw Martin (that is to say, fat as he should be). We later became friends, and then eventually started dating. In fandoms for media that has good fat representation, you're far more likely to find people who are into that.

THAT BEING SAID, I think this is important for a lot of people but especially fat folks: keep things platonic for a while to get to know the person and suss out whether you can trust them before romance comes up. In fact, I would say to not even focus on searching for romantic partners. Just look for like-minded people who you can be friends/feel safe with, and then eventually romantic feelings might develop. Chubby chasers can be totally fine and safe, there's nothing wrong with having a preference for fat bodies! But fetishism is unfortunately a problem for fat people. Don't let yourself be objectified, unless you're into that (which is totally okay, but REALLY do some introspection to decide whether you're actually into that rather than just tolerating it for the sake of staying in a relationship). You are worth more than someone's fetish. Just because it's harder for us to find partners doesn't mean you should settle for someone who doesn't treat you right.

If you want to go for dating apps or anything like that, be honest about your body. I know there's a temptation to only add headshots in your pictures if you're feeling insecure, but you're far more likely to get hurt that way if you end up matching with a fatphobe. Also, again, take it slow! The most important thing (in my opinion, I'm not an expert) is to make sure you can trust the person before jumping into a relationship.

Also, yes, 23 is super young. Try to resist the anxiety that makes you feel like dating is a rat race! There isn't a set age to find your people or settle down, even if society tries its best to push that on us. Focus on yourself first! Make friends, develop healthy habits (without worrying about weight loss, just being healthy at any weight), and get really into your interests. You'll find your people naturally over time, and romance comes with community. I know this is really annoying and generic advice, but it's just the truth :P The people who are attracted to you naturally gravitate to you when you show your authentic self to the world.

[scarletsaphire]

Tucker and Danny forgot the money, and now must get creative in order to afford the new shake at the mall.

---

Idiot in Denial x Idiot in Denial for Shiptember!

"So you're telling me that we both completely forgot our wallets." Tucker nodded. Danny sighed. "How are we going to get the new maple syrup cheesecake milkshake now?" he whined scuffing his shoe on the tiled floor of the mall, right outside the ice cream shop.

"I mean, one of us definitely has a way that they could, potentially, find a dollar bill or," Tucker paused to check the price of the milkshake on the sign outside of the door, "...nine, and then we'd both be able to get a milkshake." Danny elbowed him in the side, and Tucker yelped, rubbing at the spot. "What was that for?"

"I'm not just going to steal, Tuck!" Danny hissed.

"I was just joking!" Tucker said.

"No you weren't."

"Ok, I was like, 90% joking." Danny leveled his gaze at Tucker, and Tucker grinned back sheepishly. "75%?"

"I'll accept that," Danny said. "Now, actual ideas on how to get this, because your mom isn't picking us up for another two hours and I think we're both in agreement that we don't want to come all the way back out here again."

Tucker nodded. "You could always just, y'know," Tucker mimed a planes take off with his one hand, "...go home that way, grab the money, and then come back."

Danny considered it for a moment, before shaking his head. "Mom and Dad dropped me off, and I'm pretty sure they said something about taking the opportunity to go ghost hunting. Don't wanna risk running into them and getting into a fire fight, y'know?"

Tucker snorted. "Because they need an excuse to go ghost hunting." 

Danny laughed. "Yea, I know right." He snapped his fingers and turned to look at Tucker, smiling widely. "The arcade!"

Tucker raised his eyebrows in confusion. "The arcade?"

"Yea, the arcade! You remember how we used to go through the coin return slots when we were younger? They always have like, at least a few dollars hiding in there, people forget to grab them all the time! And I'm sure people have lost quarters under the machines. I can get them out, easy peasy!" Danny passed his hand through Tucker's to prove his point. 

Tucker returned Danny's smile. "Dude, you're a genius! What are we waiting for, lets go!" He grabbed a hold of Danny's now tangible hand and took off sprinting through the mall.

Their sprint did not last long, mostly because Tucker still had the stamina of a wet paper towel despite the years of ghost hunting. They still arrived at the arcade after a brisk walk through the remaining stretch of the mall.

The arcade was just as loud, colorful, and bright as Tucker remembered it being from the last time he'd been here. "Ok, so, what's the game plan?" he asked as they approached the entrance hand in hand.

Danny narrowed his eyes, looking over every inch of the arcade. He made the same face when he was being Phantom, when he was planning. It was understandable; this was a serious matter. "I'll take the back half of the store and focus on looking under machines and on the ground. You focus on the return coin slots, and maybe use your techno-wizardry to see if you can win a pay out from any of the games?" Danny said.

Tucker saluted. "Sounds good to me!"

The two split up. The arcade wasn't busy, so maneuvering around the few patrons was fairly easy, especially since most of them were focusing on their games, completely oblivious to the high stakes espionage mission that was taking place mere feet away. Tucker was thorough with his search, making sure to check every single pay off slot for every machine. Any one that offered a cash (or, as was more often, quarter) pay out, he analyzed it for success rates, and how easily he'd be able to work his magic and secure the prize. (Most of them were rigged, and the price to play wasn't worth it in most cases.)

By the time he reunited with Danny back at the front of the arcade, he'd amassed a small jangling collection of quarters, totaling just under two dollars.

"Feast your eyes upon the spoils of my hard work!" Tucker said, holding out the coins. "A whole dollar seventy-five!"

Danny raised his hand for a high five, which Tucker eagerly returned. "Hell yea dude! I got a little bit more, about..." Danny counted the quarters he had stacked in his opposite hand. "Two fifty."

Tucker bit his bottom lip. "We're short twenty five cents if we want to get just one."

"This is a tragedy, honestly," Danny said. 

"Maybe I can use my incredible skills of seduction to convince whoever's working there to knock the rest of it off?" Tucker asked. The two of them started walking back towards the ice cream shop.

"And if the person working is some crochety old man?" Danny asked. "Don't tell me you'll try and flirt with someone who looks like Mr. Lancer just for a milkshake."

"You, good sir, underestimate my determination of getting you a milkshake. I'm prepared to make the sacrifice if need be."

"Getting me a milkshake?" Danny asked. "No, we're getting you a milkshake. You're the one who wanted to try it."

"Yea, but you're the one who dropped everything to come with me to get it. I'm not gonna drag you to the mall and have you watch me drink a milkshake. I'm pretty sure that goes against the bro code somehow."

"Well, if that's against the bro code, there's definitely a part somewhere in there about taking the thing you're bro's excited about," Danny said. 

"Well, then we seem to be at an impasse, because I'm not letting you not have a milkshake!" 

"Well, I'm not letting you not have a milkshake, so there!" 

"I guess we'll just have to split it," Tucker said with a huff.

"I guess we will." Tucker and Danny stared at each other, eyes narrowed. Tucker broke first, the corners of his lips turning up into a smile, and Danny was first behind. It wasn't long before they were laughing together, nearly doubled over and stumbling through the mall. 

It was Tucker who fell into the row of candy dispensers set up next to one of the benches separating the large mall hallway. It would have been a rough collision, one that brought him, the machines, and probably a good 40 dollars worth of gumballs and other hard candies on his head. Luckily, Danny was there to catch him after he'd just barely grazed the side of the machine. The way it wobbled from side to side didn't help their giggles. 

It took another full minute for them to stifle their laughter down to a level much more suitable for public spaces; every time they met each others eyes, they'd be overtaken by another fit of laughter. When Tucker finally caught his breath, wiping the tears from the corners of his eyes, he'd found himself on the bench, Danny sitting next to him with his face pressed into his shoulder, his faint snickers audible only for Tucker. 

"Wait, dude!" Tucker said. "I just realized I literally ran into the solution to our problem!" 

Danny lifted his head from Tucker's shoulder, looking from him to the candy machines. "Oh, you are so right. C'mon, Fenton Luck, give me this one good thing!"

They both hurried off the bench to the candy dispensers, going through them one by one. It was on Tucker's second one that he pulled out a quarter, victorious. He held it high above his head, allowing the bright fluorescents of the mall's light to glint off of the shiny treasure. "We have done it!" Tucker called out. "We have earned ourselves a milkshake!" 

Danny cheered, turning his beaming smile to Tucker. It twisted into a devious one, and before Tucker could figure out why, Danny was off with the exclamation of "Last one to the ice cream shop has to deal with Boxy!" being the only warning Tucker got. 

"Hey, that's not fair!" Tucker called out, but Danny was already too far away, the squeaking of his sneakers on the floor already fading in with the rest of the crowd. Tucker didn't bother running; Danny could just phase through people, and was faster than he was anyway. Since he couldn't win, Tucker decided he would do the exact opposite: he would take as long as possible to get there, and make Danny wait for him. After all, Tucker had half of the money. He couldn't buy anything until Tucker got there.

Tucker arrived at the ice cream shop about ten minutes after Danny's hasty departure, to find Danny sitting at one of the very few in location tables, head down and staring forlornly out the window. When he spotted Tucker, he scrunched up his nose and stuck his tongue out at him. Tucker returned the gesture.

Danny only lifted his head after Tucker entered the ice cream shop. "If I could soup you, I would." The threat didn't wipe Tucker's grin off of his face. "No, no, Tuck, I'm serious. I can't believe you'd abandon me in my time of need, after everything we've been through."

"Excuse me, you're the one who abandoned me," Tucker said. "You're the one who went running through the mall. You should know by now that I only run for emergencies."

"I thought that getting ice cream with me was an emergency," Danny protested.

"Not one that requires running!" 

"Gotcha. On the scale of 'Things Tucker Foley Will Do For A Milkshake,' flirt with a crusty dusty old man is fine, but move briskly is too far."  Tucker through one of his quarters at Danny. Danny caught it. "You should probably just hand them over, we worked hard for these." 

"Oh, you're going to order our milkshake for me? What a gentleman," Tucker said, emptying the quarters out of his pocket and into Danny's hands.

"Well, you know what they say," Danny said, standing up to make his way to the front counter. "Chivalry is dead."

Tucker knew Danny heard his groan by the sound of his laughter. 

"Ok!" Danny said, sitting across from Tucker and putting the milkshake on the table. "One maple syrup cheesecake milkshake for us. Here is your straw," he passed a straw across the table to Tucker, "...and here is mine!" Tucker grabbed his straw, opened it, and promptly took one long sip of the milkshake.

"I don't think that was worth the work, honestly," Tucker said, stirring the milkshake with his straw. Danny hummed, and took his own sip of the milkshake. 

"Yea, the milkshake wasn't worth it," Danny agreed. "But you were."

Tucker felt his face heat up slightly. "Was that flirting? Are you flirting with me right now?"

Tucker could visibly see Danny blue screen. "Am I flirting with you?" He asked after a moment. "Oh my god is this a date? Did you ask me out on a date?"

"I didn't intend to ask you on a date?" Tucker said after a moment, though it sound a lot more like a question than a statement. 

"So, is this a date then?" Danny asked, taking another sip of the milkshake.

"I have no idea. All for putting figuring that out to the last possible moment?" Tucker asked, raising his hand. Danny mirrored him. 

They would work through all of that feelings stuff later. Right now, they had a mediocre milkshake to enjoy.

[astrangergivingthestrangewelcome]

I think that people who adapt Dracula prefer Van Helsing as Dracula's opposer because he's a more dynamic character. Jonathan is passive and compliant from the start. And while he does find the boxes, he's obeying Van Helsing's orders to do so. And after this he follows his lead instead of he himself leading the crew to save his wife. Van Helsing is active and leads throughout since his first appearance and vehemently reveals vampiric weaknesses so to kill Dracula. Naturally, he overshadows Jonathan (and the rest) in being the nemesis of vampirism.

Okay look I am not going to get my panties in a twist about adapting Van Helsing vs. Dracula, in my own fic I invent a lil' vampire hunting past for VH bc I mean it's fun, and it makes more sense than the book's assertation that he figured out it was vampirism as he went. And I get your point about how VH is the leader of the group, not Jonathan, and it's natural to pit leader against nemesis, but also I disagree that this naturally overshadows Jonathan.

First of all I deeply completely totally with my WHOLE ASS soul hate "Jonathan is passive and compliant from the start" bc... he's not. He's not passive he's not passive he's not passive! Not like being passive is a dirty word, Lucy and Arthur are both passive as fuck and I love them to bits- but if Jonathan were actually a passive character he never would have made it out of Dracula's castle. Being an active character doesn't mean you are always the leader, and it doesn't mean you don't listen to others and bow to their judgement from time to time. An active character, takes action within the plot of their own volition, while a more passive character waits for things to happen to them.

Jonathan is a very active character in the castle. He's not sitting around and waiting for death, he is hatching schemes and plots to get himself the fuck out, he's exploring and trying to get a sense of his surroundings, he's writing letters and trying to send them surrupticiously, he's paying attention when the Count speaks to try and see if there are clues there, he's looking for a key, he's climbing the walls to try and get into the Count's chamber, he's hitting the Count with a shovel, he's escaping. It's also important to me to notice that he is active from the beginning. Before the brides scene, when he just thinks that the Count is deeply unnatural and that he is being held prisoner he is already trying to think his way out.

I think the reason people think he's a passive character is because he is obligated to play along with the Count's act and bow to his wishes but that's just the context of his situation. You wouldn't call someone passive for following the instructions of someone holding them at gunpoint. He has to submit to the Count if he wants to live... and every chance he gets he looks for a way out.

Once he leaves the castle, it's actually the passivity that's killing him. Mina is I think more of a leader than Jonathan, but they both despise situtations where they can't take action. Mina was off the walls when she had no way to search for Jonathan, and Jonathan is just wilting and stagnating bc his mind will not allow him to accept his experiences as real, so he can't work through them. It's not passivity, it's trauma. Giving Mina the journal, instead of reading it himself, that's trauma. That's not how he acts most of the novel, its directly after a nervous breakdown.

In this Van Helsing does give him the push he needs, but it's not a "go do this" it's more of just a "you're not crazy." As soon as Jonathan feels confident again he is off doing things. Van Helsing asks him for help of course, but that's as specific as he gets. It's Jonathan who takes all the initiative to go to Whitby, come back with info, look up Thomas Snelling come back with info. I am sure in Jonathan's absence some one of the polycule would have done this task, but it's Jonathan that took the damn initiative. Not to mention the singlemindedness with which he pursues Dracula after he attacks Mina. Jonathan Harker is a team player, and he works with the polycule and takes instruction when he feels he is not the authority, but that doesn't make him passive.

Jonathan Harker is not a great leader of men, or a great man, or even a very memorable one, he is quiet and plain and his life's ambition is to earn a comfortable living and have a family- but that doesn't make him passive. At all points in the novel except for his trauma-coma time he is constantly taking initiative to try and solve his problems, he does not wait to be told what to do. That's why he's an active character.

In the novel itself he's there to take revenge and bring Dracula to justice. His rage is in my opinion more palpable than Van Helsing, who is angry certainly (I can think of a few monologues to that effect), but whose actions I would argue are more constantly rooted in a sense of duty and compassion. Jonathan is 10x more fiery than Van Helsing. All that is in the source material and it's so vivid and yet the directors Do Not See It and I don't get it. I don't get why there is the opinion that Jonathan is passive when I read the novel and he literally never was????

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Christmas 2023 ‘Hark the Herald’ Event Story - Part 1

Prologue

-alleyway-

ran: Wassup, Sotetsu.

sotetsu: It's not often that you call me out, what do you want?

ran: Isn't it obvious when we're meetin' in a place like this? I'd like ya to introduce me to a little friend of yours. One that’ll tell ya anythin’ as long as ya pay up.

sotetsu: You want me to find you a hookup?

ran: No! Naughty ain't ya. Who I want ya to introduce me to is one of ya work partners. Someone who knows their stuff and is nearby would be good.

sotetsu: ...Ohh, I get it now. You want me to introduce you to someone that knows the details behind that bombing incident that happened recently, right?

ran: So ya knew after all. Yep, that's what I'm after. If ya cooperate with me I'll pay up the fee myself too.

sotetsu: Don't talk like we don't know each other. We're coworkers aren't we? I wouldn't want to take money from you.

ran: Ew gross, what are ya scheming?

sotetsu: I can introduce you, sure, but in return what I want is... For you to introduce me to the person that's backing you.

ran: What? 

ran: ....... (serious)

sotetsu: Hey now that reaction wasn't very like you. Come to think of it, is the reason you're out here searching for the culprit yourself because you made a mistake?

ran: ...I was just waitin’ for the right moment to delve into it.

sotetsu: No need to glare at me like that cause I hit the nail on the head. I can tell you're getting anxious about it. A fair amount of time has passed since that incident, so the fact you're still interested in it now and even asking me for help says something. At a stalemate are you?

ran: Tch…

sotetsu: So, what'll it be? An introduction for an introduction, its a pretty even deal is it not?

ran: ....... (serious)

sotetsu: Not accepting or withdrawing huh? In that case, how about we do this. The upcoming Christmas show is planned to be a Team K solo show, so let's make it a versus against Team B instead. If you win then I'll introduce you to my guy at a discount price. But if K win, then you'll accept my previous condition.

ran: Since it's meant to be a K solo doesn't that give ya an advantage?

sotetsu: It can't be helped that a small advantage like that is in play.

ran: Stingy~ Fine whatever, it makes things simpler. I'll bite.

sotetsu: I'll come up with a good excuse for the versus to happen. Make sure you play along with me. 

-sotetsu leaves, street, night-

sotetsu: Looks like things are gonna get interesting.

—end

-

Chapter 1 

-starless office-

saki: Excuse me.

unei: There's no time left, we need to decide the event program that will be held alongside the Christmas performance today!

ginsei: I know... But no ideas are coming to mind. We need to make sure it's something even better than last years...

sotetsu: Why not just crack open some party poppers?

ran: Bleh that's so lazy.

ginsei: Don't interrupt us, Ran. Hmm...

ran: Oh, Nee-chan's here! Welcome!

ginsei: Oh, welcome, Princess. Sorry I didn't notice you come in.

saki: It's fine, don't mind me. You all look like you're in the middle of something.

-kongou walks in-

kongou: Could I have a moment? I just wanted to confirm our stock for the Christmas period... Wait, huh? Where's Kei?

unei: He had something important that he needed to attend to today so he's absent. I'll look at it for you.

sotetsu: .......

kongou: Thanks, I wanted to make sure we stock up on some extra cake ingredients...

sotetsu: ...Say, why don't we make the Christmas event plan something to do with food?

ginsei: Like?

sotetsu: How about a pie fight? It'll be a blast. You're going to be ordering a mountain's worth of cream either way right? It's the perfect opportunity.

ginsei: You're joking right?

kongou: Wait a moment, an event like that... Food should not be treated in such a way.

sotetsu: In other parts of the world they hold things like tomato throwing festivals and cheese rolling festivals. There's even champagne fights, why not bring that sorta energy to the store?

kongou: Bring it here? No way... I refuse to make a pie for the purpose of throwing it at people.

sotetsu: So you're saying you won't cooperate with this store's event?

kongou: I cook food for the guests to enjoy, not to just mess around with.

sotetsu: I see, if you're not going to budge then I have no choice... If that's how it's gonna be, let's make it a versus.

kongou: What?

ran: ....!

sotetsu: The Christmas show will be a versus between Kongou and I. If I win then after the closing show we'll have a pie fight.

ginsei: Hey, Sotetsu! Don't go deciding everything yourself!

sotetsu: Weren't you just stressing over the fact we have no special program? Why not liven the show up with a versus. Oh right, Team B have been all over the place lately, haven't they? Maybe you're too busy sorting out your internal affairs.

ran: What was that? Don't act like ya have anythin' to do with us, back off.

sotetsu: You interfered with our planning first with your own comment earlier.

ran: Bastard... Ya think I can just stay quiet after ya provoke me like that? Bring it on. Kongou, let's accept this fight.

kongou: Ran! Don't just decide that before we've discussed it with our team...

unei: Um, so... The upcoming show will be a versus between Team K and Team B then!?

sotetsu: Yep, that’s how it is. We better get the promotional material ready quickly to make it in time.

unei: I just placed an order for the flyers earlier too! I'll have to make a correction right away!

-unei runs off-

kongou: How did things turn out this way...?

ginsei: What should I do...

ran: Sotetsu, ya bastard.

sotetsu: If you have a problem then tell it to me on the stage.

saki: (Things have gotten out of hand...)

—end

-

Chapter 2

-break room-

kei: Rejected.

ginsei: I thought so.

kei: There is no point even considering an event such as that.

kongou: Agreed, thank goodness.

saki: (Well that was expected...)

unei: U-um about that... Sorry but I've already had the flyers changed. The versus has been announced on our website too, all of the guests already know about it...

kei: ...... (annoyed sigh)

unei: I-I'm sorry! If I didn't place the order right away they wouldn't have gotten here in time, so...!

kei: ...It cannot be helped now. It's sudden, but we shall proceed with the versus performance.

kongou: If you say so then... ok. I'll let Mizuki and the others know.

saki: (So the versus really is going ahead...)

kei: After the closing show, the winning team will present their choice of special menu to the guests. If Team K win, we will have a champagne tower. In the case that Team B win, you must also decide on what you'd like. You got that, Kongou?

kongou: Yeah. I'll talk to my team about it and let you know. I'll be going now then.

-kongou leaves-

kei: We shall also be holding a team meeting henceforth. Gather everyone.

ginsei: Y-yes!

-ginsei leaves-

unei: I'll get back to work as well!

-unei leaves-

kei: (sighs)

saki: Um, I'm sorry Kei-san... I was there during the versus discussion but wasn't able to stop them...

kei: There is nothing in which you need to apologise for. Rather, it is I who must apologise for the fact you had to see such an unsightly mess.

saki: Oh no, it's ok...

kei: Things have taken an unexpected turn, but we shall make the best of it. I vow to you that you'll enjoy this year's Christmas Eve from the bottom of your heart. Please look forward to it.

—end

-

SideA Chapter 1

-rehearsal room-

kei: —Due to these aforementioned circumstances, our performance has been hastily changed to be a versus against Team B.

yakou: I had heard it would be a versus, but that was the last reason I was expecting…

yoshino: No matter how you look at it that was mean of you, Sotetsu.

sotetsu: It's not like I expected things to go this far either though? I didn't know the conversation would end up going that way.

yoshino: You're the one who egged him on though. It's not good to do that.

sotetsu: I only got involved because Ginsei was standing around struggling to come up with any good ideas.

ginsei: I'm sorry... This is all my fault...

gui: It's Ginsei's fault that we're fighting against B?

yoshino: No it's Sotetsu's fault, Gui.

yakou: There's no way we can throw pies around... That's not something you do in front of guests. I agree with Kongou, maybe I should go to their side.

sotetsu: You're all really having a go at me huh. Shouldn't we all be working together as one and aiming for victory? C'mon we're all friends aren't we?

yoshino: (sighs)

kei: Setting aside your sarcastic remarks, the fact this is now a versus obviously means that we shall take victory.

ginsei: Yes. It was originally meant to be our solo performance after all, there's no way we'll lose. I'm relieved that thanks to Kei stepping in we don't have to worry about the pie fight anymore at least.

yakou: If we win we'll be having a champagne tower right?

ginsei: I wouldn't expect any less from Kei, its flashy and fitting of Team K.

yakou: Mm...

yoshino: Is something the matter, Yakou?

yakou: Champagne is pricey so, I'm worried about the budget... Plus there are guests who dislike alcohol, so how will we cater to them?

gui: There are drinks that look similar to champagne and have no alcohol in them.

yoshino: Oh true, if we use that then anyone can drink it. It's a good idea.

yakou: That could work. I'll discuss it with Unei-kun later. Thanks, Gui.

kei: It's time, rehearsal starts now. Work hard to each improve your abilities upon the stage.

—end

-

SideB Chapter 1

-rehearsal room-

hinata: What, you're having a versus performance!? Are you for real! And to think Kongou was the one who started it. Hey did you get into a fight or something?

kongou: Ngh....

lico: Shut up already. As if Kongou would do that. Sigh... Why'd it suddenly become a versus, I had things planned y'know.

kongou: I'm sorry for doing something selfish, Lico. You too, Mizuki, I should have spoken to you first.

mizuki: I don’t care about that. Your fight is our fight.

lico: I heard Ran was present too though.

heath: Ran was?

lico: You fanned the flames, didn't you?

ran: What? Kongou and our team were bein’ made fun of right in front of my face. I couldn't just sit back n’ let us be looked down on, sorry—!

lico: Sigh... Well whatever, it's already been decided.

heath: ......

mizuki: Yeah, course we'd accept that fight! Let's fuck em up, you good to go, Heath?

heath: Yeah... I have an idea for the song. It means we get to perform more too, let's do it.

hinata: Aw, I'm so jelly. Hey hey, versus’ have a winner and a loser right? What do you get if we win?

kongou: After the closing show the winning team will treat the guests to their choice of special menu. If K win they said they'll be doing a champagne tower.

hinata: Champagne tower?? Hahah what the hell that's so funny!

mizuki: What even is that?

-hinata looks up a pic on his phone and shows mizuki-

hinata: It looks like this, you stack a bunch of glasses up and pour champagne over them. They do them at host clubs to celebrate and stuff.

mizuki: Huh.

ran: You've probably seen em before right Lico? I doubt ya were ever asked to do one though!

lico: Excuse me? Of course I've done them before.

kongou: If we win we should do something that's just as flashy...

mizuki: Drinks are boring! We should have meat, a massive hunk of meat!

ran: Meat sounds good! I'm on team meat!

kongou: Got it, then our special menu will be a showy meat dish.

—end

-

SideA Chapter 1 extra

-behind starless, evening-

sotetsu: ...... (smoking)

-kei walks up-

kei: Sotetsu.

sotetsu: Hm? Oh, rare to see you out here. What do you want?

kei: Regarding this versus, what exactly is your aim?

sotetsu: Woah where's this coming from? What do you mean?

kei: Whilst it's true that you enjoy to jest, it’s also a fact you value that which brings you benefit. The reasoning that led to this versus was sloppy, but I don't believe it was merely done on a whim. To go as far as to get the store involved, what is it that you're scheming?

sotetsu: Nothing gets passed you huh. Well since you've got that much figured out already I'll fill you in. It's as you thought, due to some unavoidable circumstances I had to make the show a versus.

kei: And what are these circumstances?

sotetsu: It's a very personal matter. In fact it has nothing to do with the store whatsoever. Or Saki. It doesn't even involve Kongou.

kei: ...... (considering)

sotetsu: How was that? You more relaxed now?

kei: I understand for the most part.

sotetsu: Good good, then—

kei: However, if your conduct interferes with us any more than this then prepare to make a sacrifice of equal worth. If your actions impact the store further then you shall not be pardoned. That is all.

-kei leaves-

sotetsu: Meaning I'm one step away from suffering his wrath huh?

—end

-

SideB Chapter 1 extra

-starless kitchen-

ran: Hey, Kongou. Ya got a moment?

kongou: Oh Ran, you were still here?

ran: I have somethin' I need to say to ya.

kongou: What is it? Is this about our special menu?

ran: No, it's about the versus. I'm sorry! It's all because I said somethin' unnecessary.

kongou: ......

ran: I wanted to at least apologise.

kongou: Ah... No it's ok, it's nothing that you need to apologise for. I was the one who started it after all, so don't worry about it.

ran: No, I wouldn't say ya did...

heath: You started it, didn't you, Ran?

kongou: Heath.

heath: Ran's colour looked obscured.

ran: Ah... So ya did notice then Heath.

kongou: Huh? Did you do something, Ran?

ran: Well some stuff just happened here an' there with Sotetsu! So it's more like you're the one who got mixed up in this, Kongou.

kongou: Oh...

ran: I'm seriously sorry!

kongou: So that's what's going on. I had been wondering why you were acting strangely docile.

ran: I know that I'm bein' selfish, but this is somethin' that I really had to go ahead with.

kongou: Well, if you've got your reasons then I won't pry... However I'd appreciate you giving me a heads up next time.

heath: I've caused you all a lot of trouble up until now as well. So if it's something that you need to do, then I'm on your side.

ran: Thank ya, both of you! Kongou, I'll make sure to repay this debt to you in full. If you ever pick a fight with someone let me know! We can beat the crap outta them together!

kongou: Ah... Sure, but I don’t have any plans like that…

—end

To Part 2