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autisticlancemcclain · 1 year ago
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fic rec friday 31
welcome to the thirty-first fic rec friday! where, on friday, i rec five of my favourite fics.
1. Skirt, Dirt, Worth by @ardett
Lance wants to see Pidge wear skirts and makeup. (But really he doesn’t.)
i know the description doesn’t give much, so you’re going to have to trust me. and i really truly do recommend this one. this one...it’s one of the first vld fics i read, actually, as it was early 2017, and i’ve only had the strength to read it once. it’s not that it’s traumatizing or gory or particularly hard to read except that it’s...heavy, is the word? it made my heart pound and my breathing go fast. i couldn’t...i was feeling absolutely everything lance was feeling and it was scary in the way being vulnerable is scary. it has influenced everything i have ever written. if you’re looking for really early team dynamics and a quietly emotional exploration of gender that will change your perception of it for eternity then i cannot recommend this enough. and i hope i will find the strength to read it again soon
2. putting it into words by @jilliancares [EXPLICIT]
Lance decides to bottom for the first time. (This one's so full of fluff that you MIGHT have the visit the dentist afterward.)
very soft and sweet and emotional! exactly what the description says, you go into this fic expecting something specific and you are satisfied by the end of it. jillian has always been and will always be very talented at exploring young, barely adult klance learning how to be with each other and be themselves.
3. Say Yes To The Mess by @astrolatte
"Keith?"
"Yes, Lance?"
"Is that a dead Altean boar on our front porch?"
"Yes, it is."
"Did you bring the dead Altean boar and leave it on our porch?"
"...do you like it?"
Keith wants to sweep Lance off his feet with his proposal, that is if he doesn't get himself killed first.
one of my fave post-war fics ever tbh. like this made me LAUGH. i love how awkwardly earnest and affectionate keith is, i love how many mean lesbians are included, i love keith & lance’s family, i love long suffering and endeared lance. the whole thing is a sweet and funny masterpiece
4. competitions by @jilliancares [EXPLICIT]
After a certain competition goes wrong, Allura tells Keith and Lance that they're not allowed to compete anymore. Naturally, they bring the competitions to the bedroom.
i love this one bc its so real. like of COURSE these losers would do this. and of course it would work for them. they are rivals first and foremost. rivals to lovers? no. they are rivals AND lovers. they are somehow something more homoerotic than rivals
5. teamwork makes the meme work by muuni 
Allura creates a groupchat for the newfound members of the Gender-Sexuality Alliance club at Voltron University. Everything goes downhill from there.
Keith Why was I never considered
Shiro You know why.
Keith For fuck’s sake You shank a guy once and suddenly you’re “violent” and have “anger issues”
Pidge keith you;re gonna make me piss my pantsnhdjkljdhjh
people like to shit on chatfics all day long ‘oh they’re cringe’ ‘they’re not funny’ ‘they’re overdone’ false. you need to learn how to have fun. chatfics are SO MUCH FUN. dorky dialogue?? memes?? vines bc this fic is old enough for that?? occasional regular scenes to flesh out the story? a sequel? team as family? klance?? MATT/HUNK, WHICH I HAD NEVER SEEN BEFORE AND HAVE NEVER SEEN SINCE?? this fic is amazing and i will hear no slamming of the genre
that’s it for today (and sorry i was late)!! i’ll see y’all back next friday for the next fic rec post!!!  
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kislnd · 3 months ago
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possessive - george clarke~
synopsis: george has to collect a tipsy y/n after a night out with her friends - there he is introduced to one of her old coworkers.
notes: i managed to accidentally post this several times before finishing it lol (pain) 😭 thanks to anon for requesting this plot x
warnings: alcohol & angst (good resolution dw guys)
word count: 2.4k
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"are you almost ready?" george called out to y/n, who was in the bathroom finishing up her makeup. she knew her friends were here to collect her for their night out and george was just making sure she didn't end up keeping them waiting for too long. "yes, just give me a sec!" she replies, throwing a brush in the general direction of her makeup bag haphazardly.
"all done," she smiles, coming out of the bathroom, finishing touches all complete. "you look gorgeous y/n." george beams, wrapping his arms around her middle. "thank you." she returns the hug and gives him a quick kiss on the cheek before turning to walk towards the front door, with george following behind her. "have fun and be safe," he says, "and when you're ready to be picked up just give me a text." y/n nods, she was always grateful that he was willing to do things like that for her no matter what time of the night it was. "see you later then," she grins, a grin that he couldn't help but reciprocate, and steps outside to join her friends.
the pub that y/n's friends had chosen was a local one, but one that she had walked past countless times without ever giving it a second thought. she wasn't sure what to expect upon entering the establishment, but that didn't make her nervous. she had always thought that trying out new things or places was one of the things that kept life exciting.
once over the threshold, her senses were immediately flooded - loud music blaring from what appeared to be karaoke (something she anticipated she would have to pry her drunk friends away from later in the evening), several conversations, most of which were shouted in a desperate attempt to be heard over the music, and a strong smell of alcohol. at least, y/n thought, the people seemed to be enjoying themselves.
"we can either sit next to the speaker and go deaf or nearer to that group," one of her friends gestured to a fairly large group of rowdy guys near the bar, "and also go deaf." they all laugh at this, although their laughter was short-lived - the options really weren't good. "i vote anything but that," y/n scrunches her nose up thinking about the group - if they were already unpleasant from the safe distance at which she was observing them, god knows how insufferable it would be to spend a few hours practically on top of them.
after some deliberation, y/n and her friends settled on a table closer to the music. with everyone situated and ready for the night, a few of the girls made their way to the bar to grab some drinks.
"is that everything?" y/n questioned, scanning the array of drinks that had been poured for them. "seems about right," her friend shrugged, "we'll figure out if we ordered everyone something when we give them out." y/n nods, she was right. thankfully, enough of them had come to the bar to help out that what would have otherwise been a horrendous balancing act, was actually a swift and tidy transportation of drinks. y/n placed the last few glasses down on the table before turning to one of the girls and saying quietly, "i'm just going to pop to the toilet."
"do you want one of us to come with?" she asked, to which y/n shook her head - the bathroom wasn't far from where they were sitting and she wasn't worried about anything else. they had specifically chosen to sit across the room from the disruptive group of guys so she figured they wouldn't bother her.
either way, y/n decided she would move as quickly as possible, sliding past the few people nearby and into the room. she didn't want to spend more time than she needed to in there - pub toilets were unpleasant at the best of times and she also didn't really want to miss out on anything. nevertheless, she took a moment to freshen up - her makeup was still in position and her hair didn't seem to be so different from when she originally styled it so she simply gave her hands a wash and made for the door.
grabbing the cool metal handle, y/n threw the door open and set off with the intention of walking briskly back in the direction of her friends. instead, her stride was broken by a figure colliding with her as she stepped out of the bathroom. "oh!" she jumped back, her body flush with the door, "i'm so sorry." she exclaimed. the person, whom she had now realised was a man who had just come out of the bathroom himself, smiled warmly down at her. "don't worry, i wasn't really looking where i was going." y/n studied his face for a moment, she could've sworn she recognised him but she couldn't quite put her finger on where from. "sorry," she brushed a stray piece of hair out of her face, "do i know you from somewhere?" she paused, wondering if that had been a strange question, "i just feel like you look familiar," she added.
"you're y/n aren't you?" the man cocked his eyebrow, but didn't wait for a response. "we used to work together." realisation hit y/n, she couldn't believe she had managed to briefly forget him, they had spent almost every day for a number of years side by side. she couldn't even blame this one on alcohol. "of course!" she laughed at her own silliness and also in the hopes of relieving some tension - she was praying she hadn't offended him. "we had some good times." she smiled. much to her relief, he smiled back, "absolutely, i can't believe how much time has passed. i'd love to catch up with you." y/n liked the idea - she had to admit that she had wondered what he was up to and this would be the perfect opportunity to check in. however, she also recognised that she was here with her friends and it would be wrong to abandon them, especially when they were the ones that organised the evening.
"i'm kind of with people at the moment," y/n gave him an apologetic look, she had tried to word it kindly, in a way that didn't seem like a harsh refusal of his offer. "no worries, just whenever you have a free moment later on," he smiles, "drinks on me, of course." y/n returns the smile, "see you later then."
//
y/n could feel her head growing fuzzy and she could tell her friends felt the same, so it had been a collective decision to end the night there. with everyone calling taxis or friends to collect them, y/n decided to drop george a text to come and collect her in around half an hour's time. as promised, she found her way to her ex-coworker's table, telling herself that she could only accept one drink out of politeness and as to not hate herself too much the next morning.
"so what'll it be?" he asks grinning, digging into his pocket to find his wallet. "just whatever you're having," y/n slid into a chair and waited for him to return with the drink. soon enough, the drinks arrived and after getting over some initial awkwardness, they were back to chatting like old friends. y/n was so caught up in conversation that she hadn't realised george had texted her numerous times that he had arrived until he entered the pub himself and informed her.
"i've been trying to get you to come outside for a bit now," george says, approaching the table where they were sitting. he wasn't angry, he was aware that y/n would be caught up with her friends and therefore a little slower to check her phone, but he was confused. who was this guy? he'd met y/n's friends on countless occasions, and she often mentioned them, but this stranger hadn't ever seemed to come up in conversation. "i'm sorry," she looked up at him with flushed cheeks, the alcohol had definitely gotten to her. george was about to open his mouth to ask her who the mystery man was but before he could get there, she interjected, "this is my old coworker, from when i worked at the shop."
suddenly it made sense - maybe y/n had mentioned him in passing, he was sure she'd talked about her time at the shop a couple of times previously. "well nice meeting you," george didn't really feel like engaging in any formalities, all he really wanted was to get y/n home and go to bed. "we'd better get home." he smiled somewhat apologetically, and took y/n by the hand in an attempt to coax her to stand up. "honestly, please join us," the man, who george still didn't know the name of (nor did he really care to find out either), said. "we were only just beginning to catch up." george glanced at y/n, although he wasn't so sure if she was in a good position to be passing judgement.
"that would be nice," she smiled softly, "george?" she looked up at him with big eyes, eyes that he often found very hard to resist. george still wasn't sold on the idea. "are you sure? it's getting quite late now." he questioned, in the hopes that she would agree and they could go. he really was not a fan of how eager this guy was to spend time with her, and it was made worse by the fact that he hardly knew the guy. "please?" y/n tightened her grip on his hand, willing him to just take the seat next to her.
at this point, george obliged. it was clear y/n was enjoying herself and this guy didn't make her uncomfortable. it was not worth ruining her night and mood by forcing her to come with him. "alright." he said flatly, admittedly through gritted teeth. y/n raised an eyebrow at his tone but brushed it off, maybe he was just tired and besides, he absolutely could tolerate sitting down and talking for a short while.
//
the more he talked, the more george was sure he couldn't stand the guy. the way he looked at y/n with such blind adoration in his eyes, the way he kept reaching out to touch her on the arm briefly during the conversation and his body language, completely focused towards y/n as if he wasn't there - it was all far too much.
george made a point of blatantly checking the time and announcing it to the table, "right, i think we should call it a night here?" he turned to y/n, who was obviously more tired than she had been when he first arrived, who solemnly agreed. george stood up first, quickly helping y/n up and wrapping his arm around her shoulder protectively. "thank you, that was a lovely evening," her former coworker smiled, "we should do this again y/n." the fact he had purposely left george out of the conversation, without even having the decency to offer an invite to him (or to any of her friends) confirmed every suspicion.
george's body stiffened, his grip on y/n tightening slightly. "i don't think that would be appropriate." he said calmly, masking how truly infuriating it was for him to be witnessing this behaviour. "we're leaving now." he didn't give y/n a chance to wave goodbye or say thank you to her old friend, and instead took off briskly towards the exit and to the car.
"what was that about?" y/n looked puzzled, to her the night had simply been catching up with someone from her past and nothing more. "could you seriously not tell?" george himself was dumbfounded, it was beyond him how she could be so oblivious. "tell what?" y/n snapped back at him, "all i could tell was that you hated him. your face was sour the entire night."
"well forgive me for not taking a liking to the guy who was practically undressing you with his eyes," george began to raise his voice, he didn't like getting angry and wouldn't ever want to upset y/n but it was impossible to contain his rage in the moment. "he was not!" y/n protested, "he is just an ex-colleague, what has gotten into you?"
"to you maybe," george still felt disgusted, "i mean, did you even notice that he was constantly trying to touch you?" y/n shook her head in disbelief, "i think you're being dramatic. even if he was flirting with me, why would it matter?" silence clung to the air. george stared at the ground helplessly, he knew that no matter the number of ways he tried to explain this to y/n she would just be adamant he wasn't making advances on her. "i like you not him." she reached out to touch him on the arm, "george, i'm not angry at you. i think i was just surprised."
y/n stepped closer to him carefully and slotted herself under his chin, wrapping her arms around him in the most reassuring hug she could muster - he did the same. "i'm sorry." he mumbled into her hair where he had buried his face, "it's hard to not get jealous when you have such a beautiful girlfriend." y/n grinned, "you are silly." she paused, contemplating whether or not to share her thoughts. "and for the record, i do think you are extra hot when you're jealous."
"oh?" george raised his eyebrow, "well, as long as you don't keep meeting up with random co-workers that definitely have a crush on you, i can live with that." he chuckled. "don't worry, you definitely scared him away." y/n laughed, "i am not at risk." george mocked offense, "hilarious y/n," he smiled sarcastically, guiding her towards the car and opening the passenger door for her to climb in before getting in himself.
"i do love you, you know," she stared out of the windscreen in thought. "i know you do, and i love you," george patted her knee, "let's just worry about getting you home now."
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sidthedollface2 · 10 months ago
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A Crown fit for a God
Pairing: Azriel x Fem Reader, Eris x Fem Reader
Summary: Azriel sees you tearfully reading and asks Elain for help with a gift.
Warnings: Pining, talks of war, mostly fluff, Elain (it's fine don't worry) hurt/comfort/no comfort.
Word count: 1.6k
A/N: This belongs with a mini series I’m currently working on but it can be read as a stand alone. I’m not a writer so keep that in mind if you find mistakes. Lol.
Azriel watched from afar as you tenderly stroked the soft petals of a daisy. Your eyes closed as you deeply inhaled the floral scent. A soft smile spread across your face, enjoying the fragrance. Azriels heart beat wildly in his chest at the sight.
You sat on a bench next to a shallow pond, small fish and turtles leisurely swimming about. The sun was high in the sky, rays of light breaking through the trees, casting you in a divine glow. From your small satchel you pulled out your beloved book. One of young romance and finding true love, definitely not one of Nestas collection. The novel was about two friends sent to fight a war, similar to the war you fought in. The male had been caught by the enemy, with no way to tell his partner, she assumed he had passed leaving her to fight not only the war alone but live a life without her mate.
Azriel's heart clenched as you softly cried into the book, wiping the tears that rolled down your hot cheeks. He envisioned himself sitting beside you, his arm wrapped around your shoulders, tucked in close to his side. Peppering kisses to your temple, soothing your broken heart kiss by kiss. His daydream was interrupted as Rhys requested him mind to mind.
That afternoon Azriel sat next to Elain in her garden, thinking of you and how all these flowers would be jealous of not only your beauty but of your heart as well. He wished to bring you expensive and thoughtful things, place them at your feet like the God that you were, if only to see that shy smile once again.
He shouldn't have asked, but his mouth moved faster than his brain, “Elain, do you think you can show me how to make a flower crown?” he internally winced. Although he ended things with her the moment he saw you, they still remained acquaintances. He couldn’t bear pursuing you while he was bedding her. It wasn’t fair to drag her along when deep down he knew she wasn't what he truly desired. She was pretty and attractive by fae standards but you were incomparable. An exquisite work of art crafted by the first Gods.
“Azriel, is this for…..” she tried to say your name but it hurt too much. Jealousy ran through her, itching to deny him this simple request.
“Yes, I'm sorry. It was wrong of me –”
“Sit,” she relented, patting the space next to her. “What flowers does she like?”
Azriel took a moment to think, scratching at his chin in concentration.
“Hmm, I’m afraid I don’t know what flower she likes.” He slumped, already feeling useless in his attempt at a sweet gesture.
“That's ok, flowers also have meaning. What do you wish to convey to her?”
“Love.”
Azriel said with a quickness Elaine had never seen before.
“You love her.” Elain stated, smiling at Azriel with pride.
“More than I ever thought possible.” Azriel confirmed with a soft sigh as he cut the stem of a vibrant red rose. “But I don’t want to tell her just yet. Oh, she does enjoy the smell of daisies,” he remembered, picking the white daisies within his reach.
“Then daisies will do.”
Once Azriel gathered enough daisies he proceeded to twist them one by one just as Elain instructed. Holding two daisies, Azriel loops one over the stem of the other making a knot. One by one he loops more daisies to the main stem until it creates a crown large enough to fit on top of your pretty head. Once the main crown is done, he gathers green lace fern and baby's breath intertwining them between the daisies to make the crown appear vibrant and bountiful.
With a friendly hug he thanks Elain for her help and stalks off with a bounce in his step, eager to present his gift to you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Azriel finds you sitting on the wooden bench once again. It had been days since he saw you, Rhys having sent him on a mission before he had a chance to give you the crown. He makes himself known by clearing his throat, “May I join you?” He asks, glancing at the spot next to you, his hands held behind his back.
“Oh! Yes of course.” You glance up at him, noticing he’s not in his usual leathers but a navy collared shirt . It fits him perfectly. Snug around the diameter of his muscular arms and toned pecs. His strong thighs stretch the fabric of his sleek pants, as he takes the seat next to you, gently brushing his thigh against yours.
“I’m sorry to disrupt your reading, but I brought something you might need.”
Azriel then pulled out a blue box with a silver bow from a pocket of shadow, and handed it to you. Surprised at this unexpected gift, you remove the ribbon and within the box folded neatly was a lace handkerchief.
“If it’s real, it will never be over.” Azriel jerked his chin toward your book and your eyes widened.
“You’ve read it?” You beamed, clutching your beloved book to your chest. Holding it near your heart that wanted to desperately find someone. Someone willing to go into battle for the chance to be loved. A chance to find their equal in a world of undeserving immortals.
Azriel smiled and you melted at the sight, he was the light in the dark, a beacon lighting your way and you a moth to the flame.
“Yes, I’ve read it. It gets quite emotional towards the end.”
Azriel looked down with disappointment in his eyes, “I had got you something else, but I’m afraid it wilted before I was able to give it to you.”
You placed your hand on top of his. Azriel didn't flinch but relished in the warmth of your touch. “I’d still like to see it, if that's alright with you?”
Azriel nodded and his shadows carried the fragile crown, gently placing it in your lap. Azriel cheeks flushed, witnessing the cool shadows brushing against the softness of your cheek. For the first time ever he was jealous of them, he wanted to be the one to reach out and touch you, be gentle and tender towards you.
He wasn't known for soft things but for you he’d learn. For you he’d make flower crowns and read romantic books. He’d sit next to you and listen as the wind rustled through the trees, breathing in the citrus scent of your hair and the delicate perfume on your skin.
“I love it.” You gasp, gently thumbing at the browned petals, each touch bringing the flower back to its natural unwithered state. Your touch had the power to bring life to what once was. Flowers, once withered and decayed, are brought back to health. Animals that had been injured or hunted; a single touch healed and brought them back to vitality. Azriel smiled brightly at the display of your magic, “of course you’d be able to fix broken things. Perhaps,” he stalled, looking at his hands, “perhaps you’d be able to fix me too?”
You followed his line of sight, understanding the meaning behind his self-deprecation. Slowly you held his hands in yours, grasping them tightly hoping he’d understand the importance of your words. “Azriel, there's nothing to fix because you're not broken. All your flaws, all your imperfections, it’s what I adore about you.”
Azriels heart could explode, you wound him with your sweet words and gentle touches.
He hopes you’ll want all his flaws, all his imperfections and all his mistakes. He’s had many that's true, regrets that he can't undo, a darkness that can swallow him whole. But despite all his wrongdoings he can only hope you’ll choose him.
With nothing to hold him back slowly he leans forward, a scarred palm cups your soft face and he almost pulls back. Glancing between your supple lips and radiant eyes, he licks his lips closing the distance between–
“ I hope I'm not disrupting.”
Startled, you quickly pull away coming to a stand, cheeks flushed with embarrassment. Azriel clenches his jaw, as he stands towering over the Autumn heir in a show of dominance.
Stepping around the winged illyrian, Eris sideyes the boxed gift and flower crown with a look of annoyance and distaste. Before Eris can snatch it, Azriel carefully picks it up and steps in front of you, placing the crown softly on your head. You're breathtaking. He attentively adjusts the strands of hair that frame your face, rubbing your silky waves between his fingers, so much softer than he imagined. Soon, Azriel thinks. He’ll be able to keep you, If you choose to be his of course.
Reminding you of his presence Eris breaks the tension, “It’s time to go love.”
“Will they find eachother again? Once the war is over?” you ask, pleading that true love can withstand even the most violent of battles.
Please tell me love finds a way.
Before Azriel can answer, Eris swiftly pulls you away, wrapping his arm tightly around your waist, squeezing your hip, where he branded your body in a bargain. He kisses the corner of your mouth, looking over his shoulder with a smirk at a seething Azriel.
Azriels deep sultry voice carries in the wind, “in the middle of the chaos on the battlefield, he finds her. And she finally tells him –”
Your hopeful eyes are the last thing he sees as Eris winnows you away, leaving Azriel with three little words whispered in the air. A confession Azriel will one day be brave enough to purr between heated kisses and embraced bodies.
I love you.
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lvis44 · 2 years ago
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Sweet Escape - Pt. 1 // LH44
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Lewis Hamilton x Y/N
Warnings: Alcohol consumption, swearing, jealousy, flirting while with someone else (kinda cheating but we won't go that far), age difference, insulting/derogatory language, 18+ (no smut thus far but suggestive themes), not edited
Word Count: 5.6k
Summary: Paradise is supposed to be fun and relaxing... a Sweet Escape, but when unspoken feelings and jealousy rise to the surface, everything can be turned upside down in the blink of an eye.
Notes: This is the official Part One of Sweet Escape, you can read the Prologue here, but this can also be your starting point if you don't want the backstory. Do your best to look past any errors in the surfing section, I've never surfed a day in my life lol. It may seem like we get into the drama quick but there's so much more to come, buckle in folks! I am not a professional writer and all of this is a work of fiction and is strictly for fun. Enjoy!
---
As the van pulled up to the massive estate, you couldn’t help but gasp. Charlotte laughed from beside you, taking in the property herself.
“Well, he’s never been one to do things halfway.” She chuckled, rolling her eyes slightly.
The home was the size of a small hotel and the property sprawled on for ages. You were somewhere in the Caribbean on an island you had never even heard of, it had taken three flights just to get there. Lewis claimed it was one of his favorite places on earth, but he's said that about more places than you can count.
“My girls!” Miles' voice came loudly from the doorway as you unloaded yourselves from the van.
You turned just in time to see the large man bounding down the driveway like a child, arms open with a massive smile on his face. He crashed into you while wrapping an arm around you, grabbing for Charlotte with the other. You both laughed at the aggressive affection as he squeezed you both tight. Anyone watching the scene would think it had been months since you’d seen him, not two weeks. He’s a lot like Lewis in the sense that he loves extremely, but he’s by far more open with it.
“Hello!” You laughed, your voice muffled against the tall man's chest.
When he finally let you go, he quickly moved towards the back of the van, collecting your bags.
“Heads up, Talia’s here.” He mumbled to the two of you, an unamused look on his face.
Miles had also not been a fan of Talia when he met her. You’ve never been sure if he noticed how she treated you, or if it was for an entirely different reason, but you knew for a fact he didn’t particularly enjoy her. 
“Oh, we know.” Charlotte said, raising her eyebrows in an equally annoyed expression. 
You couldn’t help but giggle as you all made your way toward the house. You took solace in knowing you weren't alone in your displeasure of the extra guest. Miles showed you each to your rooms and told you to come say hello to everybody once you’d settled in a bit. Before he left your room he pulled you into another tight hug.
“It’ll all be good, we’ll have a blast.” He said quietly into the top of your hair, planting a kiss there before making his way out of your room. 
The bedroom was larger than yours at home, there was an attached bathroom and a large closet. In the middle of the room sat a king size bed that looked like it was made of clouds, it faced a balcony door, looking out over the Caribbean Sea. You had the feeling of not belonging for a split second, being surrounded by more luxury than you could fathom. You quickly had to remind yourself that if you didn't belong, Lewis wouldn't have made sure you were able to come. You really had to thank him again for all that he had done. You made your way into the bathroom to freshen up a little bit, hoping to splash away some of the long plane ride. As you got ready to go downstairs and greet everybody you heard movement in the hallway. You truly hoped it was one of your friends as you stepped out of your room, unfortunately you weren’t that lucky. Talia was walking down the hallway towards you, dressed in a bikini fit for Sports Illustrated. You understood why Lewis had been interested in her, he wasn’t looking for anything more than physical, and how she looked right now made it easy to look past her attitude. 
“Hey.” You did your best to be kind, hoping to avoid any tension.
She said nothing, just looked you up and down and kept walking, making her way out to where you assumed everyone was. You rolled your eyes at her childish behavior and trailed along behind her, hoping to find your friends. As you stepped out the large door you were greeted by the sound of laughter and conversation, the warm sound like music to your ears. There was soft music playing as you looked around at the scene. Your friends were sprawled out on expensive looking patio furniture, facing toward the large infinity pool that showcased the beautiful view of the sea down below. Your eyes searched the group, hoping to find Lewis. You spotted him, over by a bar on the balcony, Talia already attached to his hip. As if he could tell you were looking at him his eyes found yours, a big smile gracing his features as he saw you. He brushed Talia off, much to her annoyance and made his way over to you. 
“I was starting to think you’d fallen asleep up there.” He laughed warmly as he pulled you in for a tight hug.
Hugs from Lewis were always amazing, he would squeeze you so tight you almost couldn't breathe. His big arms completely engulfed you in the most comforting way, he would never let go until you did. 
“Sorry,” You laughed as you pulled away, “just wanted to freshen up a little bit, long flights.”
He smiled in understanding before grabbing your wrist and pulling you along towards everyone. He had a habit of dragging you around when he was excited.
“Look who finally decided to show her face.” He announced loudly.
You were greeted with big hugs from everyone. The second that Lewis wasn’t next to you, you couldn’t help but notice Talias possessive touch had been returned to him. You weren’t sure if you were imagining it, but you almost felt like he looked annoyed. You decided to ignore her and catch up with your friends, some whom you haven't seen in quite some time.
The afternoon carried on uneventfully, everyone drinking and joking around. You had changed into your swimsuit, hoping to catch the last few rays of Caribbean sun. You had felt his eyes on you when you walked out of the house, he had Talia perched on his lap but his attention was fully on you. You wanted to be disgusted by the man but you couldn’t find it in you, instead you added a purposeful sway to your hips and made your way over to one of the lounge chairs. It didn’t take long for him to appear next to you, thankfully alone.
“I feel like I haven’t gotten to see you at all since you got here.” He said, placing his sunglasses on his face as he settled into the chair beside yours.
You couldn’t help but giggle a bit, “I wonder why.” You didn't look at him but you could see the confusion on his face in your peripheral 
“What?” The confusion was evident in his voice.
“Nothing,” You pushed the topic aside before turning your head towards him with a smile, “How have you been? It’s been a while.”
His face lit up, ignoring your previous comment. He filled you in on everything that had happened over the last few months, talking about races, his new training routine. You couldn’t help but laugh as the beautiful man beside you rambled on like a little kid. He noticed your amusement, cutting himself off with a bashful look.
“Sorry, sorry,” He chuckled, seemingly embarrassed by himself, “it’s just easy to get carried away with you.”
He settled back into his chair, his head rolling towards you to keep eye contact.
“Okay, it’s your turn, I wanna hear every single thing that’s been going on in your life.” He then settled even further into his chair, crossing his arms behind his head as if he was getting ready for you to read him a book.
“Well, not much to tell really, life has mostly been work and more work.” You told him, glancing over at him.
“Come on, something must be going on in your life. You're young, fun, attractive, you can’t possibly be just working. You need some fun every once in a while.” He frowned over at you.
You couldn’t help but catch the comment about you being attractive, you knew he was just being kind but it still made your skin heat up ever so slightly.
“I did go on a date…” You trail off, waiting to catch some sort of reaction from him.
“Oh?” His tone is inquisitive yet almost harsh.
“Yeah, he kinda sucked though. He talked about himself most of the time, asked at the end of dinner to split the bill, and then still tried to get me to go back to his place. Needless to say I won’t be seeing him again.” You laugh to yourself, thinking about how much you had hated the night.
“Don’t, he sounds like a proper tool. Dickhead didn’t know what was in front of him.” He says gruffly before letting out a deep sigh, “Y/N, you can do a whole lot better than that. You deserve so much better than that.”
You smile over at him, “I know, that’s why I went home alone and blocked his number.”
He gives you a bright smile, extending his fist to meet yours, “Atta girl!”
You hear her before you see her, a loud scoff coming from behind the two of you. When you look up she’s partially kneeling on Lewis’ chair, clearing her throat obnoxiously.
“I could use a little help here.” She says in an annoyingly sultry tone, waving a bottle of sunblock in the man's face.
Lewis lets out a small huff, so quiet you could have easily missed it before pushing himself up from the chair.
“Yup,” His tone comes out clipped before turning back to you with a gentle smile, “I’ll see ya in a bit, yeah?”
You return his smile, simply nodding before he’s trailing off behind Talia like a lost puppy.
You didn’t end up seeing Lewis at all for the rest of the night, only during dinner with everyone while his attention was directed elsewhere. You only knew he had gone to bed when you heard her calling out for him later in the night.
“Lewis,” her whiny voice carried through the large house, “come to bed! I’m lonely!”
Miles rolled his eyes so aggressively at that, you worried they might get stuck in his head. At least you weren’t the only one who was disgusted.
. . .
The next day was spent down at the beach, the water was so clear you almost couldn’t believe it was real. Lunch and drinks were packed in various coolers as everyone toted their way down the narrow path to the sand.
“Holy shit.” You mumbled to yourself, stopping at the bottom of the trail, causing Lewis to almost run into the back of you.
You only realized you had blocked him rather abruptly when you heard his warm chuckle right behind you, much closer than expected. 
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it.” He said quietly, placing his hand on your back, guiding you forward slightly so you were no longer blocking the path. 
“It’s stunning,” you said, eyes wide as you turned toward him, he was still close to you, standing just by your side, “thank you again, so much. I really never thought I would ever be somewhere like this.”
He shook his head with a soft smile, “No need to thank me Y/N, this trip wouldn’t be the same without you here. Besides it was me being a bit selfish, I missed you.” 
You couldn’t help but blush slightly at his comment, you had missed him too but to hear him admit it made you feel some type of way. You couldn’t quite put your finger on it. You always felt honored to be the recipient of his attention in any way, much less his affection. 
“Come on, it’s even better up close.” He said, grabbing your hand and pulling you along toward where everyone was already setting up blankets and umbrellas.
You could feel Talias eyes on you but you did your best to ignore it. Lewis is an adult and he is allowed to interact with his friends, she doesn’t own him. As far as you're aware they’re not even really together.
You dropped your stuff next to where Charlotte and Miles had put their own. Miles hadn’t wasted a minute, bounding toward the water like a lanky child before throwing himself into a large wave. You and Charlotte exchanged a look before bursting out in a fit of laughter.
“We’re friends with absolute man children.” Charlotte said through her laughter, shaking her head as she went to lay down her blanket.
“Maybe, but you love us.” Lewis piped up, a cheeky smile on his face, teeth on full display.
“Yeah, yeah, yeah, you keep telling yourself that grandpa.” She sends back at him, sticking her tongue out.
“You watch it young lady, I’m only two years older than you. You’re gonna be just as ancient as me soon enough.” His tone is playfully stern and he can only hold his fake scowl for a second before breaking out into a big grin.
Out of the corner of your eye you see him settle down on the blanket next to Talia as he takes off his shirt. They look like they’re ready for a photoshoot, two perfect bodies on the most perfect coastline. You turn your attention back to laying out your own blanket as he turns his attention toward her, talking quietly in her ear. She lets out an annoying giggle, one that seems to be more for show and less a reaction to whatever he just said.
“Alright, y'all are boring, who’s coming in here with me?” Miles shouts out from the water before falling back into another wave.
“Gimme just a sec.” Lewis hollers back, moving to stand up.
Daniel is already making his way down to the water and Charlotte is taking off her cover up, ready to head down herself. You do the same, putting on some sunscreen and tying back your hair.
“Come on, just for a few minutes, the water here is incredible.” You hear Lewis attempting to persuade Talia into the water.
“No, I told you, I don’t swim.” She half scoffs at him.
You almost want to roll your eyes, it would be such a shame to miss out on the beautiful sea. Lewis is shrugging as you turn toward him, obviously not in the mood to try any harder.
“Y/n?” He says, you can tell he meant to say more but stopped short when he saw you. Even through his sunglasses you can tell he’s checking you out much more than he should be, especially with the company sitting just behind him.
You’re not wearing anything particularly fancy, just a black bikini that you’ve had for a few years. It has the most support of any that you own and buckles instead of ties so you figured it would be best for the ocean. You raise a slightly accusing brow at him, urging him to continue.
He shakes his head ever so slightly, breaking himself out of what seemed to be a trance, “You comin’ in?”
“Hell yeah.” You say enthusiastically, jogging toward the water without waiting to see if he’s following. He appears at your side rather quickly, much more adept to running in the sand, or really running at all. You both slow down slightly. Once you're sure you’re far enough away you mumble to him “She’s fun.”
He looks at you with a small smirk but still manages to look like he's reprimanding you, “Leave her alone, it doesn’t matter.”
Once you’re close enough to the water that the tide is lapping at your toes you let out a shriek. Two large arms have wrapped around your torso from behind, picking you up in the air. He’s now running at full tilt into the water.
“Leewiiiisssss.” You scream out through a fit of laughter.
Just as his name comes out of your mouth, he’s throwing the two of you directly into a wave, the water completely engulfing you both. As you come up, sputtering slightly, you’re still in his arms. You free yourself, turning around to slap him in the chest before pushing your now drenched hair out of your face.
“Warn a girl next time.” You curse at him, still blinking the salt water out of your eyes.
You're met by nothing but boyish laughter as he takes in your slightly distraught state, “Aww it’s okay, you won’t melt.” He fakes a pout at you, making you flip him off before turning to swim over to where everyone else is, laughing themselves.
You don’t make it very far before the same arms from before are wrapping around you again, facing you toward the shore as another large wave crashes over the two of you. You managed to prepare yourself for it a little better than the last, this one actually making you laugh.
“Sorry, didn’t have time to warn you for that one.” Lewis says into your ear, his voice quiet and light. You can feel his warm breath against your skin, making you shiver despite the sun and warm water. You detach yourself from him, very aware that everyone can see you.
“My hero, thank you sir.” You tease him with his title as you swim away.
He follows after you, joining the rest of the group. Everyone swims and plays around for a good hour before deciding to head back up to the beach. Lewis and Miles share a look before Miles grabs you, pulling you further down the beach.
“So Y/N, Lewis and I have decided we’re gonna teach you how to surf.” Miles announces proudly
“Oh, hell no.” You start to protest, trying to pull away.
Lewis has already made it up to a part of the beach where you see an array of surfboards and kayaks that you can only assume belong with the house he’s rented. You see him selecting the perfect board, not paying particular attention to your dismay.
“Yup, sorry, it’s ain't up for discussion.” Miles simply shrugs, still pulling you along.
It takes them only a few minutes before you’re caving, they’re both well aware that you rarely say no to them.
“We already worked on your stance while we were in Malibu, now we’re just gonna try that in the water.” Lewis says as if it's the easiest thing in the world.
“Just watch and learn baby, watch and learn.” Miles is yelling out as he's already jogging toward the water, surfboard under his arm.
You watch miles paddle out, trying and failing to catch more than a few waves making you laugh slightly. You can feel your nerves subsiding a little bit but they’re definitely still there. Lewis can tell, he sees the tension in your body.
“C’mere.” He says, his hand outstretched towards you, gesturing for you to come to the board he has laid out in the sand.
You do as he says and let him arrange you on the board in the proper stance, so you can remember what he taught you almost six months ago.
“So you want to bend your knees and lean into it a bit.” His voice is soft and reassuring, he places his hands on your hips, pulling them back slightly to get into the proper position.
His hands are large and warm on your bare skin. As he pulls your hips back you notice how close he’s been standing, your ass just barely grazing over the front of his swim trunks. It's only a moment but you notice it, making you gulp. He must notice it too because he’s immediately stepping back as he clears his throat.
“Looks good, it's all about balance, you’ll be fine.” His tone is shorter now, but still offering the slightest bit of comfort that you need. 
The boys finally get you out into the water after showing you multiple times how to push yourself up on the board. You had thought surfing was supposed to be relaxing, Lewis always explained it as his form of meditation, but the more you run drills with them the more you realize it’s a proper workout. You know you must look like a sweaty mess as you all head into the water. Lewis shows you a few times again how to work with the board in the water before you’re being sent off to try it on your own. They both watch, sitting back on their own boards, as you try and fail multiple times. You’ve wiped out more times than you can count and only managed to actually get up on the board twice.
“It’s not gonna happen guys, I’m not meant for surfing.” You call out to them as you struggle your way up onto your board once more.
“Come on, it’s your first time, it takes some getting used to.” Miles tries to cheer you on.
“Look, there’s a perfect wave coming in right now. We’ll take it with you.” Lewis offers, paddling his way over in that direction.
You’re still not quite sure how you managed to pull it off, but somehow it did end up being the perfect wave. You managed to get yourself up and ride it a short distance, it was maybe fifteen seconds but you were proud.
“She did it, she fucking did it!” Miles is already cheering as you make your way toward the shore.
Lewis quickly scoops you up in a big hug, pressing a big kiss to your cheek. It’s not an uncommon thing for him to do but it still makes you rather flustered. He places you back down giving you a big high five.
“Seeee,” He draws out in a teasing tone, a big smile on his face, “we knew you could do it.”
“Well I barely did it, but that was a ton of fun.” You laugh, overjoyed that you managed to do it at all.
“Barely is better than not at all.” Miles says, clapping you on your back.
“Come on, let's go cool off and then we can head back over to everybody. We’ve accidentally abandoned them.” Lewis says with a laugh.
The three of you make your way back into the water, floating your way over closer to where your friends sit. Miles makes his way back up to the group quicker than you and Lewis, the two of you bobbing around in the beautiful water a few minutes longer.
“See, this is what I mean,” He starts, looking up at the clear sky with a squint in his eye before looking back to you, “today wouldn’t have been nearly as fun if you weren’t here.”
“What a sap.” You tease him, shaking your head.
“Nah, Y/N, I mean it. I’m really glad we met you.” His voice is sincere, his eyes holding so many more emotions than you can even try to decipher.
“Me too.” It’s all you can really say but you truly mean it, you’re so grateful for this little chosen family you’ve become a part of.
You could tell Talia was in a mood as you made your way back from the water. Lewis simply throws a towel at you, making her roll her eyes. You noticed how she moved away from him as he settled down onto the blanket next to her. She seemed jealous. You could hear her whispering to him in a harsh tone but you couldn’t hear what she was saying.
It didn’t take very long for Lewis to stand up and start packing their things, announcing that they were heading back up to the house and they would see everyone later. You heard Daniel make some off handed comment, telling them to use protection. You didn’t hear either of them respond, assuming Lewis had chosen to flip him off instead. The rest of you chose to stay down on the beach for a little while longer, waiting the short while until the sun started to set.
As you made your way into the house you could already hear the yelling, everyone exchanging uneasy glances as you headed toward the kitchen to unpack your coolers.
“If you want to fuck her so bad why the hell am I even here?” Talias shrill voice cut through the house loudly.
“Jesus christ, she’s one of my closest friends. How can you not understand that?” Lewis was harsh in his response.
You glanced at Miles, unsure of what to do. There was nowhere to go to avoid listening to their conversation, if that's what you could even call it. He shrugged back at you, equally unsure of how to navigate the situation.
“You think I’m a fucking idiot? I see how you look at her, she gets all of your attention any time she’s around. You think I don’t notice?” Somehow Talias voice has managed to get even louder, “And what the fuck was that with you two in the water, huh? All giggly and flirty, like she doesn’t know how to swim? Showing her how to surf just so you could touch her?”
“I haven’t seen her in months and I barely got to even speak to her yesterday because you were jealous. Anytime I was even remotely close to her you found a way to pull me away.” Lewis is fully shouting now, something you have never heard from him in nearly two years of friendship. Sure you’ve seen him upset, but never have you heard him yell at anything other than a football game he was a little too invested in. 
You can feel your friends glancing at you sympathetically. It’s not lost on anyone that they’re arguing about you. Everyone is trying to busy themselves, starting on making dinner, but it’s barely working, everyone is interested in the fallout of the fight happening down the hall.
“She’s a fucking gold digging bitch, how can you not see that? She wants to fuck you just as much as you evidently want to fuck her, so why don’t you go right ahead. She’s just as much of a whore as all the other ones you seem to keep in rotation.” Talia spits back at him, scoffing at the end.
You widen your eyes, frozen as you hear the way she's speaking about you. You feel Miles come up next to you, wrapping an arm around your shoulders and pulling you in against him.
“Don’t listen to her, we love you.” Miles mumbles into the top of your head, pressing a kiss there.
“Don’t you dare, ever, speak about her that way again. I fucking mean it. I’d also keep in mind that you're, as you say, part of my rotation.” Lewis’s voice comes out harsh, threatening, “I want you gone.”
“Oh you want me gone? She’s the one that shouldn’t even be here, I paid for my ticket here, we all fucking know she weasled cash out of your pocket for a nice vacation.” She just about screams back at him.
“Gone. Now.” His voice is icy, sending a chill down your spine. That’s not the Lewis you know.
You can feel your eyes start to well up as their bedroom door slams. Lewis appears at the end of the hallway, still in his swim trunks from earlier. He quickly looks around the room as everyone stares wordlessly at him. He doesn’t meet your tear filled eyes, almost grimacing when he sees your face but saying nothing.
“Lewis-” Charlotte tries to speak before getting cut off.
“I’m going on a run.” He says abruptly, already walking away from the kitchen toward the front door.
He’s still barefoot and shirtless as he walks out the front door, slamming it hard behind him. The silence in the house doesn’t last long as you hear more commotion from the bedroom at the end of the hall. She’s swearing to herself and it sounds like she’s dropping things. It doesn’t take long until Daniel see’s her down the hallway.
“What the hell are you doing?” He shouts, already making his way down the hall.
This quickly gets everyone's attention, straining to look where he’s headed. You see her with an arm full of her stuff, making her way toward your room, throwing things into the doorway.
“If she wants him so fucking bad, she can fucking have him.” Talia screams back at him, not stopping for a second as she makes her way into your room.
This quickly catches both yours and Miles’ attention, heading down the hall yourself. When you make it to your door you see her grabbing your things, throwing them into your suitcase. You can’t help but be confused. What the hell is she doing? 
“Hey, chill out. Everyone’s just upset, let’s take a breather.” Miles is trying to reason with her but it evidently isn’t working as she continues throwing your stuff into your bag, still muttering to herself.
With your bag in hand, she pushes past the three of you, tossing your stuff into Lewis’s doorway. When she turns to face you all you finally see her cheeks are covered in tears, snot running down her face. She looks genuinely hurt and you almost feel a little bad but you quickly push it aside, thinking of all the things she just said about you.
“I’m pretty sure I heard Lewis tell you to leave.” Charlotte says from behind you, her voice calm but cold.
“Yeah? Where the hell do you want me to go? It’s almost eight o’clock at night, I’m kinda stuck here. So sorry to be a burden.” Her voice is riddled with sarcasm as she throws her hands up in the air.
She doesn’t wait for a response as she once again pushes past you and into what used to be your room, slamming the door shut and locking it. You stand there, outside the door, absolutely stunned. It’s not until you feel Miles and Daniel guiding you away, back towards the kitchen that you snap out of it, finally getting mad.
“What the hell was that? How am I the bad guy?” You ask no one in particular, heading towards the bar just off the kitchen.
“You’re not the bad guy, she’s apparently just bat shit crazy.” Steph pipes up.
It makes you feel better hearing that from her, you two have never been all that close and only hung out a few times. You always have a good time together but really don’t have much in common. So if even she can see that it's not your fault, that must mean something.
“I mean she’s certainly crazy, we can see that, but Lewis shouldn’t have brought her here if was just gonna flirt with someone else the whole time.” Someone else says.
“He’s not flirting with me, he’s just like that.” You try to defend yourself, and him.
Charlotte looks at you with sympathetic eyes, “Hun, he’s definitely been flirting with you. Yes, he’s flirty with everyone, but it’s different when he’s flirting with intention.”
“What the hell are you talking about?” You feel a little flustered at this point. A little embarrassed that everyone seems to know, confused as to why he would possibly be flirting with you, and almost excited that this crush you’ve had might just be reciprocated.
“Honestly, I’ve seen him flirt with countless women to get in their pants,” Miles starts, giving you an apologetic glance at his wording, “but it’s pretty rare that I see him flirt because he actually likes someone. Char’s right, the way he flirts with you is definitely different. And I love the dude, but it’s not fair to either of you.”
There are nods of agreement from your other friends and you feel your cheeks get hot.
“Okay, okay,” You put your hands up, trying to deflect away from the topic, “where am I supposed to sleep tonight? She just locked herself in my room and put me in a very much occupied room.”
“Well, I mean you could always sleep with Lewis and see where it goes.” Daniel says with a smirk.
It takes all of a second for Charlotte to make her way over to him and slap him on the back of the head, hissing at him, “Not the fucking time.”
“You can sleep with me, I know it’s not perfect but we can be cuddle buddies.” Charlotte says kindly, giving you a gentle smile.
Noone ends up eating dinner, dispersing from the kitchen rather quickly to avoid the awkward air that has set over the house for the night. You, Charlotte, and Miles end up in the living room doing your best to ignore the situation through means of alcohol. By the time eleven o’clock rolls around all three of you are more than tipsy and both Charlotte and Miles get up, ready to head to bed. Lewis still isn’t back and you can't help but be a bit worried. He would usually be in bed by now but he still isn’t even home. You send them both off to bed, telling them you’ll be up just a little longer. You sit in the living room in silence, nursing a drink, for almost an hour as you start to get drowsy. You try your very best to fight it off, hoping to stay away until Lewis is home, but you can only fight your exhaustion for so long.
As you drift off to sleep, the clock nearing twelve thirty, Lewis is still nowhere to be seen.
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katyspersonal · 4 months ago
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I had a fun dream regarding the Elden Ring DLC!!! In fact, it was a DLC for the DLC. Apparently it was my brain's spin on "how it could have gone differently", centered around at least 3 different endings (?) that I got to try! It was hard to say whether I was playing or actually being the main character and experiencing all this (best type of videogame-based dreams!)
The focal point was Divine Gate being destroyed and Miquella being spat back out, in his accursed child body again and the "plot" started when we returned some things/feelings to him to make him active. The amount of dialogue he'd provide depended on the amount of Crosses we visited, and before returning them he was completely limp. In either case he was labeled on the map as 'Heartbroken Miquella' or something. There was one 'default', ending that needed passivity sort of. There were plenty of quests and things to do still that were required for the plot, but provided you didn't do anything "special" it ended up in Miquella basically building a Noah Arc very quickly. Yes, because some unknown force triggered the great flooding that was coming. It would basically destroy the world Greater Will and Fingers created so far, and yet let it be made anew. The good side of it was, that since Death is connected with water in Elden Ring world (souls of those that didn't die properly assume Jellyfish form, Godwyn became a sea creature, Tibia Mariners) a LOT of people were coming back with the water but in pure form. Children of the Stars without their rotten flesh and all. This ending felt bittersweet though; having done so much to 'uproot' the fundamentally wrong things Two Fingers melded into this world, he still could not find the courage to let his friends die yet there was no time to separate their bodies from flesh like Ranni and victims of Astrologers' experiments... Effectively, preserving """filth""" into new world and saving what he could save.
The second ending somehow stopped the flood by effect, granting it protection of his gentle pale yellow light (not to be confused with the oppressive gold of the Erdtree!). Protection from any Outer God and from corruption and rotting from within. That however would result in people like Malenia, Godwyn (Prince of Death), Romina etc getting sealed into yellow crystals for the 'next 1000 years' so they could not corrupt the world but alas they could not be healed still. This ending was centered on Miquella comprehending that no, Radahn wasn't "corrupted by sinful world" into becoming a warmonger compared to younger self but war WAS his nature. And for many people, alas their nature was 'necessary evil' without which the world would be a hollow place. So he accepted he could not "save" some people because that'd not be them anymore. However, he could still let the world rest in Heaven by putting it in preservation for a long time. Not cleaning, just preserving from evil, external or internal. And how this secret ending was achieved? ......by marrying Miquella, which included a large variety of activities in order to distract Leda, avoid Leda, lead him away before Leda appears, sending more friends to talk to Leda, having Dane and Leda shipped (lol okay??) etc hfhygxjjh Because if you messed up this part, she'd not let you close enough to Miquella and you'd be set back to flood ending XD
Third ending had to do with the darkness!! It was a secret one, where you would seek rifts Messmer left along the way where he used Base Serpent powers too much. The rifts were patched out by the earth itself, but you had to reopen them like wounds. Reverse Crosses collecting! Because.. if they all were opened, you could access the Lightless Abyss that Base Serpent came from and force it into the world! It would extinguish any and all light of this world leaving only blue star-affiliated one. A bit like Ranni's ending but EVIL!! Creatures of golden light would get striped from it though (Queelign copes and seethes lol). It ensured a lot of horrors being unleashed though and consuming every "weak" person. Tarnished, Albinaurics and other lightness were remotely safe, but those born of gold and under Ring and relying on it were FUCKED. Especially Marika's family. They'd remain defenseless and be the first to get swallowed, so from now on they'd need protection. And whereas blue stars remained the age would be darkness swallowing all of them until only one remained. I as a "player" knew it'd explode to bring the light again.. but other characters didn't.
.....yet when I wanted to try this unleashed Abyss ending, Miquella himself stopped me by stabbing me with Bewitching Branch (not swinging it, specifically stabbing) and I woke up from very intense feeling of love and yearning for him lol fgfggh The last thing I remember how scared he was that he barely stopped... all that. But I just suddenly found him the most appealing person in the world, as if I never loved anyone else. I can't even describe how it felt. It was like.. every cell of my body suffering and only his touch could cure this torment. I had to lay down about 20 minutes to finally calm down gjfggd I am actually embarrassed by it, especially since intrusive thoughts followed, but also I guess it wasn't my fault? Very weird type of alarm clock though 💔
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genshin-obsessed · 1 year ago
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Hey, are you thinking about making a Vampire! Cyno headcannon at some point? I really want to know how that's gonna go.
「✧」 Well, I didn't have plans but why not now? ^w^ Let's see, I'm just writing as I go so some things may seem not exactly right and it's because I didn't do too much planning beforehand. 「✧」 Btw, this isn't intended to be like... tighnari x reader x cyno, but if you wanna think of it like that, go ahead. Also, this is much longer than I intended it to be? Like I said, no plans, I just wrote and wrote and forgot to stop lol.
Vampire!Cyno
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♢ Before you find out ♢
Of course, Cyno keeps his true nature a secret from everyone. The less people know about it, the less issues he'll have to deal with when it comes to answering dumb questions.
He usually tends to feed late at night when he's not necessarily "on duty". Since people know his face so well, he actually needs to do a good job at hiding it. All of his usual clothes are put away and he settles for more darker clothing, that covers all of him, and a mask to hide his face.
Cyno does his best to feed on packets of blood. He doesn't like cornering random people to drink from them- it's too personal of an act and he's not a fan of it. If it ever comes down to a situation where he does need to feed from a person directly, he tries to go for criminals and he'll ever kill them.
He's never lost control and gone crazy but in the event he does, he has a backup plan set up. He's never had to use it before and he thinks about its efficacy on a daily basis.
Normally, Cyno tries to replenish on blood supplies on a monthly basis. He acquires it without actually talking to anyone and paying large sums of mora. The blood, itself, is acquired ethically, he just keeps it for himself sometimes. There is a specific supply that's emergency only and he doesn't touch it unless he has a serious urge. BUT, in the event he's out of those and has no blood whatsoever... he has two people and only two people he'll ever go to. You or Tighnari.
Both of you have asked questions about his secret before but as far as he's aware, you two are still in the dark. He does his best to keep silent about it and doesn't leave a trace (i.e blood lying around his home, blood on his clothes, drinking any packets outside of his bathroom, etc).
Cyno cares for both of you dearly and the thought of his urges ever causing you harm makes his heart ache. He has nightmares about scenarios like that which often makes him wake up in a cold sweat. Sometimes he wonders... how dangerous is he? As the General Mahamatra, he's under his own command- when it comes to hunting down those who need a slap of justice. But with these urges... they take over. His thirst for blood commands him and he gets violent.
Uh... it's best he doesn't think about that. He's done his best to prepare to avoid that.
♢ After you find out ♢
Well, it was inevitable you and Tighnari would find out. No matter how hard Cyno tried to keep it to himself, you two were simply too close to him.
The event was... so bizarre to him. He had fed the night before and usually only fed twice a week. It was always enough. But that day, he was helping Tighnari collect samples, going as both a company and a sword (or polearm) and you just happened to be there. Everything was fine as Tighnari made his comments and collected samples with your help. Cyno helped by providing all the best jokes.
Then it hit him. Hard. His chest constricted, his throat felt dry, his vision was getting hazy and both you and Tighnari smelled delicious. His glowing red eyes looked over at the two of you as he had the sudden urge to just tackle you to the ground and drain you dry. Your voices became muffled and he could no longer make out what words were escaping from your lips.
Then, you both looked at him. He panicked, immediately backed away feeling that urge to rip you two apart and lick up every drop of blood becoming stronger. He made up an excuse and he ran. He sprinted all the way home and locked himself up, stumbling to his room, where he'd stashed his emergency blood supply. He just barely managed to rip the bag open, taking large gulps to drink down the sweet, thick blood. Some trickled down his lips, sliding down his chin and throat.
He hadn't even realized both you and Tighnari made your way into his home by pretty much breaking down the door. You'd never seen Cyno react this way and it was scary. You two ran to his room, where you heard something clatter and watched as he drank down the blood like a wild animal. It took a moment before he came to his senses. Soon, the look of horror on his face matched both of yours.
Anyway... since that day, you and Tighnari offer to help him with either acquiring the blood or just offering your own. He strictly refuses and says it's best if you two pretend as if you never even saw it. Which is... well, impossible.
But you're both a lot more supportive than he figured you'd be. Yes, you're both his closest friends but this was different. He was a clear danger to you two, especially after that day, but you two never questioned his loyalty. You two often used that same day as a defense, reminding him that even when he wanted to harm you two, he still managed to run off. He still has his reservations though.
Cyno doesn't drink blood in front of you. He still prefers to sit in the bathroom and sip it slowly as he takes the time to think about whatever he needs to. He doesn't really like answering questions, the biggest being why he doesn't turn to ash in the sun, but it doesn't hurt to educate you two. It's a myth. Vampires don't burst into flames in the sun.
You two have asked about drinking blood directly and it actually embarrasses him a little. He explained he usually drinks from packets and avoids biting into a person if he can. Of course, that spurred the "so like does Alhatiham look delicious?" to which he just rolls his eyes and says "hell no".
He might drink your blood though. If you ask nicely enough.
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lokimobius · 3 months ago
Note
🫳 for writing prompt lol
I finally got round to finishing this! Sorry for the wait! This prompt was also sent in by @silentxsymphony!
🫳 Head pats
Also posted to ao3 if people prefer to read there
Ever since freeing Loki from the End of Time, the team had been trying, and failing, to arrange a trip away from the TVA to relax. Finally, their schedules aligned, and much to Loki’s dismay, they unceremoniously voted on going to the beach with a game of rock, paper, scissors.
He’d asked B-15 if they could go during a day that wasn’t so sunny, and she looked him up and down before telling him, quite rudely, if you ask him, that he needed more vitamin D and the sun would be good for him.
And so, that’s how Loki ended up sitting in the godforsaken sand, barking orders to Mobius as he competed in a sandcastle-building competition.
The plan was simple: Mobius would collect the water, and Loki would do the sculpting. After all, they were only building sandcastles, and he was a god; how hard could it be?
The rules: Each team had an hour to create the best sandcastle. After their time was up, they would be judged by B-15, who, Loki might add, was relaxed comfortably under a parasol on a sun lounger, sipping smugly on a cocktail, and not sweating to death under the planet's two suns like he was.
The winning team would win a weekend away on the timeline wherever they wanted, no questions asked. During this, their work would be transferred to the losing team, so they wouldn't have to worry about coming back with excess amounts of files to work through.
Loki needed to win. Everything had been so hectic since he got back that he barely had any alone time with Mobius.
OK, so that was a lie. They spent a lot of time together, especially alone time. He was just too nervous to tell Mobius about his feelings.
He'd had been given his own room upon his return to the TVA, and they spent most ‘evenings’ there together. They didn’t need to suggest hanging out at Loki's anymore; they would simply walk back together after work, and Mobius would make himself at home instantly.
Loki had done many scary things in his life. Most recently, leaving the timelines alone to fend for themselves was one of them. But nothing was as frightening as confronting his feelings and confessing them to Mobius. Loving Mobius was easy. It was expressing that love that he struggled with.
But he planned to use this opportunity to take Mobius somewhere nice, eat delicious food, and pour his heart out to him.
He felt his pulse race in excitement and anxiety. He had to win.
He stole a quick glance at O.B. and Casey, who were casually filling their buckets up with sand and laughing as they patted down what looked like a crumbling wall.
He put the finishing touches on another sandy tower and smirked. Amateurs. They wouldn’t know what hit them.
“Hey, look at you go,” Mobius said, strolling back with another bucket full of water. “It’s amazing! How are you working so fast?”
Mobius’ eyes were wide in astonishment as he placed the bucket down and bent down to admire Loki’s work. He watched as Mobius trailed his fingers across the immaculately sculpted battlements.
“I’m a god, Mobius, and a very smart one at that.”
Mobius hummed, reaching out towards Loki’s head and patting him gently, “Very smart, indeed.”
Even though he was boiling from the sun's rays, he shivered under the weight of Mobius’ hand. There was something about Mobius’ touch that made time feel like it slowed down.
If he weren’t so used to the feeling of time flowing through him, one might think he was using magic in these moments. It was, however, only his mind subconsciously trying to stay in the moment for as long as possible. There was no magic needed when it came to Mobius.
They stayed in that position for longer than was probably acceptable for friends, with Mobius kneeling next to him in the sand, his hand resting on top of his head.
A particularly large wave crashed against the shore, pulling him out of his daze. He realised that he had been staring at Mobius, who was smirking at him, obviously waiting for an answer to a question Loki didn’t hear.
“Um…” He cleared his throat, embarrassed that Mobius had caught him being a love-struck fool. “Did you say something?”
Mobius moved his hand so that he was holding the side of Loki’s face, his thumb brushing against the edge of his lips. His eyes sparkled like that of the sea behind him, though Loki noted that Mobius was significantly more beautiful.
“I said, What do we need to do next, Your Highness?” Mobius patted his cheek and withdrew his hand. Loki tried not to outwardly whine at the loss. He could feel his face burning under Mobius’ attention, and he hoped that he could just blame it on the heat. There were two suns, after all.
“Yes, right!” Loki scrambled to his feet to take a step back, taking in his hard work as he did so. “It’s not historically accurate, but I think this castle needs a moat.”
“I’ll get to diggin’ then.” Mobius beamed.
The last fifteen minutes of the contest passed quickly. Working alongside Mobius was effortless. They’d fallen into a good rhythm of Mobius filling up the moat and Loki focussing his attention on the small details.
Their teamwork was formidable. They were certainly going to win.
---
“You’ve got to be joking, right?” Loki argued, “My– our sandcastle is a replica of Inveraray Castle.”
B-15 shrugged and slurped the last of her cocktail through her straw. “Loki, I don’t even know what that is.”
“You don’t-? Thor and I visited there when we were young and feasted with the Duke of Argyll. Don’t you know the story?”
“Knowing too much about you is more of his thing,” she snorted and pointed towards Mobius, who was standing closely by his side.
“Anyway,” she continued, “O.B. and Casey’s sandcastle had more heart. It was less pompous.”
“Pompous?!” His voice became shrill. “I beg your pardon! O.B. and Casey made a turtle; that’s not even a castle!”
B-15 laughed, “Like I said: more heart.”
He scoffed. This was unbelievable. B-15 hadn’t said anything about being able to build anything other than a castle. If he’d known, he would’ve chosen something far more impressive to make.
He was just about to argue this point when he felt Mobius' hand land on the skin of his shoulder, putting pressure there to ground him. It was a technique that Mobius used often and one that Loki knew all too well.
“Let’s take a walk, shall we?” He said, squeezing his shoulder and then moving his hand down to the small of Loki’s back.
“If we must,” Loki sulked, allowing himself to be guided away from their friends. “I can't believe we have to do O.B.’s work. Good job that I have centuries of experience with quantum engineering.”
“Yes, you do! Thanks, Loki!” O.B. called cheerfully, waving at the pair as they made their way down the promenade.
---
For an island that boasted about its beautiful beaches, there weren’t many people around. In fact, when they reached the nearest café, it was deserted.
The café was small and manned by a single robot who was very excited to see them—they were the first customers of the day. It enthusiastically told them that they were holding a buy one, get one free offer, so Loki’s ice cream was on the house.
After a long time on Mobius’ part deciding what ice cream to have, they made their way to the tables outside to eat.
Two tubs of ice cream sat in front of Loki. On one side of the table, Mobius was digging into his vibrant blue monstrosity of an ice cream. "It's bubblegum flavour," Mobius had told him with a grin. Loki screwed his nose up in disgust.
He had chosen pistachio, which was a much more acceptable green, although he’d hardly eaten any of it, opting instead for ranting and raving about their loss.
“B doesn’t understand,” he complained, waving his spoon in the air. “I chose the perfect castle to be sculpted out of sand.”
Mobius nodded understandingly, spooning a large scoop of bright blue ice cream into his mouth.
“I can’t believe she’d choose their sandcastle over ours—if you can even call it a castle!”
He made eye contact with Mobius just as he slid the spoon out of his mouth slowly, his tongue lapping against the underside to make sure he didn’t miss a drop of ice cream.
“I had great plans for our timeline getaway.” He grumbled, mixing his ice cream so that it became soupy.
“What kinda plans?” Mobius asked, licking his lips.
“Well, I wanted to do something nice for you.” He mused, so caught up in his thoughts that he didn’t notice Mobius leaning towards him over the table. “I planned on cooking my favourite Asgardian dish for the both of us, but that idea has been dashed against the rocks of despair.” He flopped his head down onto his arms dramatically, hiding his face from view.
Everything was ruined. He had tried so hard, but yet again, even his best wasn’t enough.
Mobius laughed loudly—that beautiful melodic laugh that made Loki’s heart sing, and some of his frustration washed away. A hand found its way onto his head again, and it patted him apologetically.
“I’m sorry, Loki. Your castle was amazing, but we can go on a date any time you like, y’know? Doesn’t have to be special.”
His head flung up in shock.
Surely he didn’t hear that correctly?
“Date?!” He repeated. His mouth hung open like a fish.
“That’s what it was, wasn’t it?” Mobius smiled knowingly at Loki.
“You knew?”
Mobius nodded. Of course he knew. He always knew. He was always able to read him better than anyone else.
Loki felt daft. He thought that he was being discreet with his plan, but he should’ve known better than to underestimate the way that Mobius knew him.
“I wanted to tell you myself.” He said after a pause, “I wanted it to be special.”
Mobius’ face softened.
“This is special.” He said, reaching out to grab Loki’s hand. He lifted it towards his lips and kissed the back of it softly. “Everything about you is special; how could it not be?”
Loki’s heart lurched in his chest. He couldn’t believe this was happening. Mobius was holding his hand. Mobius had kissed his hand. He replayed the moment in his mind, thinking of the way his moustache tickled his skin and how soft his lips were.
“But if you insist,” Mobius said, leaning back in his chair, hand still wrapped tightly around his own. “Don’t let me ruin your moment. What were you going to say to me?”
His jaw dropped.
“Go ahead,” Mobius smirked, his sea-blue eyes swimming with mirth.
Loki took a deep breath in. This was it. This was the moment he had been waiting for. He had pictured this moment multiple times as he sat on the throne at the end of time. The setting varied, but what he wanted to tell Mobius remained the same.
He knew exactly what he wanted to say.
“I wanted to thank you,” he began. “You saved me. You allowed me to see that I was able to be more; that I could be anyone I wanted. Because of you, I was able to find purpose.” He gestured with one hand to the surrounding beach. “And what a glorious purpose it is.”
The trees swayed in the wind, the sun shone, the tide pulled the sea out and pushed it back against the shore, the clouds moved across the sky, and their ice cream melted. Time continued. All because Mobius believed in him.
Loki met Mobius’ eyes pointedly. “All of this is because of you. You are my purpose.”
Mobius’ breath caught in his throat.
“I’ve never adored someone in the way that I do you. Someone who sees me for who I was, who I am, and who I could be. And what I’d like to be is with you. If you’ll have me.”
“Damn,” Mobius sniffed, squeezing Loki’s hand tightly. “Anyone ever tell you that you have a way with words?”
“Once or twice,” Loki smiled, eyes watery. “I have been told that I have a silver tongue.”
“Ok, does Prince Silver tongue want to come over here and give me a kiss?” Mobius said softly. He reached up to wipe a tear from his eye.
“More than anything.”
Loki leapt from his chair, bumping into the table with his thigh as he landed on Mobius’ lap.
He wrapped his arms around his neck and leant in.
Mobius’ lips were soft and sweet; it was glorious. The flavour of his ice cream lingered upon them, and Loki savoured the taste. Perhaps bubble gum wasn’t so monstrous after all.
They parted, and Mobius rand a hand through Loki’s hair, playing with the ends gently. He gave Loki a quick kiss and said, “I adore you too, if you weren’t aware.”
“I actually wasn’t aware,” Loki said, leaning in close. “Why don’t you tell me again?”
“I adore you,” He brought their lips back together in a light kiss.
“Again.” Loki said against his lips.
Mobius rolled his eyes fondly. “So demanding.”
They held each other close, arms wrapped tightly around one another as they shared kisses and watched the sea wash against the shore.
This time, instead of being apart as time passed, they were very much together.
---
“I still want that meal you told me about.” Mobius said later that evening. They were laying together on a sun lounger watching O.B. and Casey splash each other in the ocean. B-15 lay nearby reading a book.
“Your favourite Asgardian food!” he exclaimed, wrapping his arm around Loki’s shoulder to pull him into his chest. “Now that’s something I can’t miss out on.”
Loki turned to look at Mobius and grinned shamelessly.
He had one last confession to make.
“I never actually learnt how to cook.”
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moodymelanist · 1 year ago
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I Guess It’s Half Timing (And The Other Half’s Luck) Chapter Five
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Happy @cassianappreciationweek day 2, everyone! I came super down to the wire with this one, but now that I’m done with the bar exam (and hopefully passed) I shouldn’t be so down to the wire for the rest of the fic unless life decides to throw something else my way, lol.
Anyways, hope you all enjoy 🩷
✷✷✷✷✷ Nesta
The rest of the party went well, with everyone more than excited that the baby was a girl. They took plenty of pictures and videos with the various pink props that Feyre and Mor had stashed around the party, Nesta finding herself in the middle of so many photos with Emerie and Gwyn alone that she’d more than lost count by the time she’d done some with Cassian. She’d also consumed so much pink frosting that it was a miracle none of it had stained her mouth, and by the time she’d packed up enough leftovers to feed a small army, she knew it would take weeks before she’d be able to eat another pink food. 
When Nesta finally made it back to her apartment, it was all she could do to shower and throw on some pajamas. It had been nice getting to see everyone and be excited as a collective unit, but it was also exhausting. She wasn’t built for so much social interaction at once, especially where she was the center of attention. Cassian had been a godsend the whole day by diverting some of the attention back onto himself, and every time one of his large hands would steady her at the small of her back, it was like he’d figured out how to take all the tension out of her with just that one small gesture. 
If only he were here now to take away her newly-awakened feelings about the baby. 
Nesta had thought all this time they were having a boy, but she wouldn’t deny how excited she was at the prospect of having a girl. Would her daughter be like she’d been as a little girl, excited to discover the world through books and stories about people in faraway places? Would she sit still long enough for Nesta to make sure her hair was done and her clothes matched all the frilly, adorable accessories Nesta already wanted to buy? She hoped the baby would have Cassian’s curls just so she could use all the adorable clips and barrettes that had never stayed put in her own hair. Maybe Cassian would be good with that, considering all the experience he’d had with his own hair. God, that would be so adorable. 
But despite all the excitement, a not-insignificant part of her was absolutely terrified of having a daughter. She didn’t want to repeat the seemingly endless cycle that the women in her family had perpetuated, from whatever her grandmother had done to her daughter that had inspired the way Nesta had been treated growing up. Eira and Rhea were both long gone, but the things they’d said and done still lingered in Nesta’s bones. What if she somehow fucked up her daughter the same way she’d been fucked up as a kid? What if she didn’t even realize she was doing it? 
No. She wasn’t going to do that. She would never, ever do that. Her family had given her an exact blueprint as to what not to do when it came to raising children, and over her dead body would she put her daughter through the things she’d experienced growing up. Her daughter would grow up never having to question if she was loved. She would know that she was perfectly wonderful the way she was, and she’d be allowed to flourish in whatever direction she wanted. It didn’t matter to Nesta if her daughter wanted to tussle instead of play quietly with dolls, or if she decided to chase other girls around the playground instead of boys — or if she didn’t want to chase anyone at all. 
None of it mattered more than showering her daughter with all the unconditional love and affection she deserved. 
Nesta let her hand float down to her stomach, sliding her hand under her shirt to rest it on her little bump. 
“I love you, baby,” she whispered into the quiet of her room. It was a little strange talking to someone who couldn’t respond yet, but as she slowly drifted off to sleep, she swore there was a fluttering in her stomach like the baby was talking back to her.
Keep reading on AO3 here!
tag list: @perseusannabeth | @bookstantrash | @charming-butt-insane | @oversizedbats | @melphss | @sv0430 | @podemechamardek | @autumnbabylon | @live-the-fangirl-life | @julemmaes | @that-little-red-head | @jmoonjones | @sayosdreams | @thewayshedreamed | @hiimheresworld | @brieq | @pearlfortears | @swankii-art-teacher | @nerdperson524 | @snickerdoodlechittybangbang | @imsointobooks | @nesquik-arccheron | @sweet-pea1 | @champanheandluxxury | @dustjacketmusings | @mrs-shadowsinger04 | @unlikelypersonalknight1 | @goddess-aelin | @arinbelle | @talkfantasytome | @simpingfornestaarcheron | @duskandstarlight | @letstakethedawn | @vidalinav | @c-e-d-dreamer | @dealfea | @katekatpattywack | @burningsnowleopard | @thatsowlmazing
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annestie · 5 months ago
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Outcasted - Chapter 3: Slowly Settling
Summary: At sixteen, Neteyam has completed his iknimaya and is considered an adult. He's a warrior, finally allowed on the battlefield. They're perfectly on the path for them to win once again, something Neteyam is excited to be there for. Until, he's outcasted by his own father.
Neteyam's forced pick up what is left of his life and leave. Never allowed to step foot into his home again, he now has to navigate through learning to live anew, past relationships, and, the hardest, mourning.
Chapter Summary: Neteyam begins learning more.
Pairing: Ao'nung x Neteyam
Word Count So Far: 6300
Notes: This was so fun to write. Thank you for waiting! There were a bunch of things happening but it's here now and I'm so happy with it. I mean 20 days is sooner than 30 right lol? Chapter 1 and such at the bottom.
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It’s evening. A little before the eclipse truly darkens the sky. Where the light of the sun still kind of shines but doesn’t light up as much as earlier in the day. It’s the start of the end of the day. A time where Neteyam finds that most of the noise from earlier is gone though from what Ao’nung has stated, they were all simply at dinner.
Ao’nung comes by Neteyam’s marui around this time. Neteyam has just finished his hair, a lucky coincidence as soon he wouldn’t have any light and he still hadn’t collected any wood for fire.
“You changed your hair,” Ao’nung immediately points out at seeing Neteyam.
“I just took down the braids and beads,” Neteyam explains, instinctually running a hand through his loose hair.  Quickly, he stands and faces Ao’nung, ready to head out.
“It looks good.”
Neteyam smiles. “Thank you,” he says as he walks towards Ao’nung. “Where are we going?”
It almost immediately clicks in Neteyam’s mind where they’re going as they’re walking. This had been the same path he took every evening when he visited Awa’atlu. Every marui and landmark the same.
Finally, the path ends and opens up to a big platform where most of the village seems to be. As soon as Neteyam steps foot onto it, memories of being there flood back into his mind. They used to eat on this exact platform every evening. It really had been a while. Though, dinner was probably the least memorable part of the trip.
Unlike the path, the platform looks a little different. It’s bigger, able to sit more. And there seem to be more of the fire they use to cook. It still looks as crowded as ever though.
Neteyam ears flatten as he looks over the crowd. There’s so many people. The last time he had been in a crowd this large had been in the forest, right before he was made to leave.
Neteyam used to like big crowds. Loved the energy and presence of them. It’s a little haunting now. Knowing how that energy and presence can be used. He doesn’t get to think much further on it as Ao’nung takes hold of his hand.
“My father wishes for you to sit with us,” Ao’nung explains, pulling him through the crowds towards where the Tsahìk and Olo’eyktan are.
The Tsahìk and Olo’eyktan are seated on a higher section of the platform, slightly looking over the crowds of people eating. Surely, a tradition. Probably, something to bring comfort or security.
The first thing Neteyam notices as he’s seated between Tsireya and Ao’nung is that despite almost everyone else having plates, both the Tsahìk and Olo’eyktan have nothing before them yet.
“My mother and father don’t eat until the rest of the clan has been served,” Tsireya quietly whispers to Neteyam after seeing his confusion. “We have enough but it is tradition.”
“Ah, thank you,” Neteyam tells her with a smile. His grandmother and Jake had done something similar. They wouldn’t have many communal meals like this often so rather the two would wait for everyone to get a portion of the hunts before they took some for themselves.
A little before their plates are served, Ao’nung turns to Neteyam. “Tell me, forest boy, have you completed that iknimaya you talked of?” Ao’nung asks curiously. Probably trying to make conversation.
Neteyam scoffs at the name. “I did, actually a few months after my last visit,” he tells with a smile. “It’s how I got here. I flew with Loreyu, my ikran.”
Ao’nung looks pained as he dramatically sighs. “And I thought I finally had something over you,” he complains. “I completed my rite of passage a few months ago. When will I ever beat you?”
Letting out a laugh, Neteyam shakes him head. He misses the weight of his beads on his hair, he remarks to himself, it’s strange not having them. “Never, fish face,” he says, quickly letting that thought fall away from his mind.
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The next week or two go about the same.
Neteyam doesn’t really keep track of the days. After the first few, he finds it easier simply not to. Thinking about the days just make him miss his siblings more.
In the morning Neteyam has lessons; diving, breathing, swimming. He always wakes early, a habit from before when he used to go out as soon as there was any light in the sky. After, he finds something to eat. Then goes to his lessons.
At some point, in all of it, Ao’nung shows Neteyam the hunting grounds. A few that are less deep that Neteyam can either walk or swim to and other’s that he would have to wait to get to with an ilu or tsurak.
Neteyam even learns to use a net. Which he, admittedly, is not the best at though Ao’nung says he’s seen worse. Neteyam finds that a little hard to believe but it does make him feel better.
The biggest adjustment is the fact his body isn’t used to any of this. In the forest, he was fit for it. Perfect for climbing and shooting his bow and all that surrounded living there. Here, Neteyam has little. Useless.  
Neteyam either spends his lunches with the three assigned to teach him or alone. Though, Tsireya and Rotxo do slowly appear less at the lessons. It’s clear after the first that Ao’nung could handle them just fine. Really as useless as Neteyam is, he doesn’t need three teachers.
After all of his lessons are complete for the day, Neteyam has hours to himself. He uses those hours in many ways. Making acquaintances, helping out with anything, simply trying to find a place within the village. That’s the best way he’s found to try and fit in.
It works, mostly. It’s hard. Hard to make himself anew in such a different place. Hard to let go of the past.
The whispers don’t help. Questions of why he isn’t with his family, why he was banished. Though, he finds it mostly in the elders of the clan, probably those who remember hearing of Toruk Makto being Jake.
Dinner’s always at the end of the day. Where Neteyam’s always invited to sit with the Olo’eyktan and Tsahìk. It’s nice, reminds him much of the ceremonial dinners he used to attend.
Despite the difficulties, it becomes routine. So when Ao’nung unexpectantly shows up while Neteyam’s having breakfast, he’s rightfully confused.
“Ao’nung?” Neteyam asks, looking up from his plate. “Is everything alright? What are you doing here?”
“So quick to worry, forest boy,” Ao’nung teases.
“You would be the same way if you lived the way I did,” Neteyam remarks, meaning no harm really. His way of getting back at the names.  
Ao’nung laughs as he walks into the marui, holding in his hands up in fake surrender. “Sorry, sorry,” he says though it does sound genuine. “Today is little different though.”
Neteyam squints his eyes at Ao’nung. “In what way?”
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After explaining and finishing breakfast, Ao’nung leads them here. Here being chest deep water a little ways away from one of the docks in the village.
“Ilu training?” Neteyam asks as he and Ao’nung stand in the water. Neteyam doesn’t exactly have the best past with ilu. If he had to put it into words, his relationship with them is much like Jake’s when he first tried to ride a pa’li.
Ao’nung silently guides Neteyam’s hands to the saddled ilu before them. “You want to learn our ways? Then ride,” he states.
“The last time I tried riding one of these, I nearly drowned,” Neteyam says, gently petting the ilu. The ilus are cute, sweet creatures. Neteyam is the only one unhappy in this.
“Nervous? This is what we have been practicing this past week, breathing, slowing the heart.”
Neteyam takes a deep breath, looking between the ilu and Ao’nung. “Let’s just get this over with.”
As Neteyam quickly hops onto the ilu, Ao’nung explains what he must do once they begin moving. Flow like water is the part that sticks out to Neteyam. The advice that clings to him the most of all of it.
Not wanting to stall, Neteyam quickly makes the bond with the ilu, already preparing himself for the dive. The sooner he learns the better.
In a flash, the ilu swims. She, another thing Neteyam had learned from Ao’nung instructions, quickly dives from which Neteyam is promptly thrown off.
“You ok?” Ao’nung calls from afar, swimming closer to Neteyam.
“Fine!” Neteyam yells back as he surfaces.
“Good because we’re going again.”
And again.
And again.
Neteyam loses track after the fourth or fifth time. It all blends into each other.
Ilu training is hard. Probably one of the first challenges he’s actually encountered. Sure, his swimming skills were practically nonexistent, but this is different. It’s hard in a way that isn’t just because of his skill.
It’s the deep ingrained roots within Neteyam’s mind that make it difficult. The way to ride and tame forest creatures so heavy imprinted on him that he can’t even begin to unravel it.
Why can’t Neteyam just adapt? That’s the question that lingers in his mind as he attempts, over and over again. The longer he is useless, the longer it will take to forget.
-
Neteyam’s out of breath. His chest quickly rising and falling as the ilu beside him waits. He hasn’t felt this way in a while. Not since training in the forest. He doesn’t really need to push his body that much anymore, at least not with everything else so far.
Just as Neteyam’s breathing evens out and he grabs the reigns of the ilu, Ao’nung stops him. “Let’s take a break.”
“Why?”
“It’s already lunch.”
“Right,” Neteyam says, swimming away from the ilu and towards the docks. “I’ll see you later.” He’s tired. He couldn’t even stay on the ilu more than a few minutes. Useless.
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Returning later, Neteyam finds Ao’nung already waiting. He stands by the docks, leaning against one of the supporting poles, out of boredom he fiddles with his necklace, the tooth one that always seems to be hanging from his neck.
“Ao’nung?” Neteyam grabs his attention.
“Hey, I figured we would give her a break,” Ao’nung explains as he walks towards Neteyam.
“Yeah?”
“Come on, there’s more you can learn for now.” Ao’nung’s already walking away at this point, heading in a direction that seems to be away from the village.
Confused, but not questioning it, Neteyam follows. He follows over the bouncy paths that don’t seem so strange now, and the warm sands are feel so soft under his feet, until Ao’nung stops. They’re little ways down the beach from the village, there’s some shade from both the roots and leaves above.
“You remember when I taught you those signs?” Ao’nung asks as he sits himself down on the sand.
“Of course,” Neteyam says. “I remember wondering how your fingers could even do that.” He sits down beside Ao’nung.
“I will teach you more. You must know it, especially if you are going to begin hunting.”
Finger talk had been what Neteyam first took to calling it when he first saw it on one of his trips. A way that they’ve found to talk underwater. Neteyam had learned the basics things of it back then; help, danger, look, Ao’nung’s name. All the simple ones.
“What do you remember?” Ao’nung asks. “From the ones I taught you.”
Neteyam lets out a laugh as his hands form the sign for Ao’nung’s name. “This one.”
It sticks out in his mind, especially the story of how Ao’nung had gotten it. He was trying to explain how they got their names in the signs. They come from appearances or stories or events that connect to the person.
Ao’nung told that his first hunt had been a squid, which had inked him. The ink left him glowing for weeks. The name of the kind of squid becoming his. Before then, his name had been much more normal, but the squid name had just stuck around.
“Really? Why?” Ao’nung questions, laughing as well.
“It’s because of the story you told me.”
“Story…” Ao’nung wonders aloud. “Oh! The story. I can’t believe you remember that.”
“You’re hard to forget.”
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Out of everything, the signing has been one of the most interesting parts of all of his lessons. If only, Neteyam’s fingers actually wanted to listen and do the signs. But he still prefers it to the ilu riding.
“Do it again,” Neteyam says as he continues bending his fingers, trying to get them into the right positions.
“Like this.” Ao’nung repeats the sign for fish.
Neteyam scoffs, throwing his hands up in frustration. “My fingers don’t do that.”
“Yes they do,” Ao’nung tries convincing him. He leans over, carefully taking Neteyam’s hands into his own. “You just need to know the right way.” Slowly, Ao’nung repositions his fingers into the sign, Neteyam watching on in awe. “See? Not bad for a forest boy.”
“How do you make it look so simple?” Neteyam asks in wonder as he repeats the sign again, marveling how easy it now is.
“How do you make weaving look so simple?” Ao’nung asks in return.
“Point taken.” Neteyam looks off back to the beach and ocean. The eclipse is beginning. The little light still in the sky will quickly leave. Dinner is soon as well. “It’s getting late, I didn’t even realize.”
Turning his head, Ao’nung nods. “Yeah, I guess I wasn’t keeping track of the time. Dinner’s already starting. Come on, my parents are probably waiting for us, we can continue there.”
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hellsbeenbettersincehesplit · 8 months ago
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Cross-posting This Gilded Weight! (The og post was being weird when i tried to edit it so this gets its own post lol) It's my drabble collection exploring snapshots of Vaggie's pre-canon development from her fall to the show pilot. This is the last of my already-posted works that I'm cross-posting over here, the rest will be new stuff. Hope y'all enjoy!
This Gilded Weight
This had to be a nightmare.
Nightmares don’t exist in Heaven, so this was a first, but this had to be one. Vaggie is (was?) an exterminator. Exterminators don’t have weaknesses and don’t show sympathy to dangerous, evil sinners.
At least it was unrealistic- she would never really fall. Her? Over a child’s soul? The idea was laughable. So Vaggie wasn’t stranded wingless on a random street in Hell, and she’d just wait this out. That’s how nightmares work, right?
She wiped tears and golden blood from her face.
No need to worry. She’s be fine once she woke up.
Vaggie drifted in and out of sleep. She couldn’t tell which was real and which was a dream.
In one world, she couldn’t stand and her eye wouldn’t work. But a beautiful woman was feeding her soup and saying soothing words. It… wasn’t awful.
In another world, the extermination was ongoing and she had to kill someone she cared for again and again. It’d always end with harsh words and horrible pain.
She didn’t know which half she should hope was real. In the one she was spending more and more time in, at least she hadn’t killed a child.
Vaggie felt the loss of her wings with every step.
Her back muscles were made to accommodate large wings which held a considerable amount of her body mass. Her steps were too light. On her lower back, the remaining muscle complained from lack of use. Even breathing was different on the ground.
Vaggie kept losing her balance. She’d nearly fall and try to flap wings that weren’t there. She hoped Charlie found it endearingly clumsy, not suspicious. And the phantom pain was horrible.
Hell wasn’t as bad as she’d thought, but she wished she’d been able to keep her wings.
It hadn’t occurred to Vaggie that Charlie didn’t instantly know she was an exorcist- she looked like one and was found near her armor, it wasn’t hard to tell. But by now… it was far too late.
Part of it was safety. Charlie was the princess of hell. Demons couldn’t hurt angels, but Vaggie was vulnerable enough that one could find a way. And if Lucifer found out his daughter befriended an exorcist?
She wasn’t ready to die yet.
More importantly… Charlie saw something good in Vaggie. She couldn’t let that disappear.
What Charlie didn’t know wouldn’t hurt her, right?
“Don’t worry,” Charlie kept saying at the next extermination. “They can’t go after us.“
A dark cloud of angels descended upon Hell. Ice filled Vaggie’s veins.
Longing pooled in her chest. She wanted to be with them. More accurately- she wanted things to be like before.
It didn’t matter. They’d never take her back.
She couldn’t look away.
Charlie’s arm settled across her shoulder. Soft hands ran through her hair.
“It’s ok to be scared.”
Vaggie rested her head on Charlie’s shoulder. Tarlike guilt filled her chest. Charlie would disappear if she knew the truth. She accepted the comfort anyway.
“… and we’ll have lessons and team exercises and-”
“Charlie,” Vaggie interrupted. “Sinners can’t be redeemed.”
“I have to do something! It’s not fair to just let them die.”
“It’s not,” Vaggie agreed. “But… everyone is here for a reason. People don’t change here.” 
“They might try if there was hope! Don’t you wish you went to heaven?”
“Heaven wouldn’t take me. Not after what I’ve done.” Not a lie, just… misleading.
“But-“
She squeezed Charlie’s hand. “Besides, I’d have to leave you.” Vaggie already regretted her next words. “But… if anyone could do this, it’s you. I’ve got your back. ”
In her time in hell, she’d only met one other fallen angel. She’d gotten a message on sinstagram asking to meet with her. They’d agreed to meet in an alley for privacy.
The other looked… different. Orange hair, scarlet feathers instead of grey.
She still had her wings.
“It’s so hard to find us,” the other had mentioned. “What type?”
“Exterminator.”
“Same.” Vaggie looked her up and down with suspicion, a familiar ache on her shoulders. “Hell changes you.”
“You got to keep your wings?”
“They took yours?“
Vaggie didn’t reach out again. Why remind herself of all she’d lost?
She missed heaven.
Of course she did. It was the best place in the universe. But on a more personal level… she missed heaven home.
She’d had a dove stuffed animal when she was a baby, named Mary. She kept it for years and lost it when she needed it most.
Where she first scraped her knee, the arena she used to spar in, where she’d met her first crush… just gone.
When she was bedridden, Vaggie had begun teaching herself how to draw. One day, her mental image of Heaven wouldn’t be so clear. She’d need something besides memories.
Friendships are a strange thing in Hell. Trust is scarce. Once you have it, the friendship stays.
“I hear the radio demon’s back,” a friend mentioned over coffee. “After seven years!”
Vaggie looked over her shoulder just in case. “Heard where?”
“Just rumors right now.”
“Let’s hope it stays that way.”
There was a shift in the atmosphere. The look on their face was deadly serious as they forewarned, “If you ever meet him, don’t trust him, don’t give him an inch, and never make a deal.”
In hell, you listen to warnings the first time.
”I won’t,” Vaggie promised.
“Are you fucking serious?”
Angel Dust held up the pig. “Fat nuggets stays, or I go.”
Charlie looking at Vaggie the way that made her resolve disappear. “Look at that little face!”
“We can’t keep a pig in our hotel.”
“He’s well-behaved?”
“Alright, he can stay!” Charlie decided.
This was unsustainable. Vaggie knew how important this was to Charlie, but where was the line? Couldn’t this effort go towards finding residents who would try?
But… Charlie looked so proud as Angel Dust entered his room. This wouldn’t work, but if it made Charlie happy, she’d put everything into it anyway.
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kyouryokusenshi · 1 year ago
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Lol hello, I have another prompt and I thought of you. Could we see a small collection of sweet things people (like Skinner, TLG, Doggett, anyone) tried to do to help Scully while she was pregnant w/ William? I just think it's so adorable thinking of any of these people having to deal with a preganant woman, let alone Scully.
A Symphony of Support
@today-in-fic
The soft glow of morning sunlight filtered through the blinds of Dana Scully's apartment, casting a warm hue over the room. Her thoughts drifted to the past three months as she gingerly rubbed her growing belly. Her first and second trimesters of pregnancy had been undoubtedly difficult, and countless times she thought she’d lose the baby, especially when they found Mulder. 
It was a miracle. Scully had decided early on that she wanted to wait for a surprise, much to her mother’s chagrin. She didn’t understand it because she was sure her mother had to wait until her children were born before they knew the sex. Usually, she detested surprises, but she wanted complete autonomy over this one. Scully felt the baby was a boy, the mother’s intuition and all that, but all she truly cared about was that the baby was a healthy human—nothing more and nothing less.
Despite the difficult past several months, little did she know that a network of unlikely allies was conspiring to make the remainder of this journey as smooth and memorable as possible. 
Assistant Director Walter Skinner, a man of authority and discipline, was not one to easily reveal his softer side. However, when he learned of her pregnancy, his concern for her well-being took precedence. Not only did he have her back countless times to prevent her pregnancy from being used against her, but she’d also learned that he discreetly rearranged her assignments these past few months, keeping her away from high-stress cases. Despite her doctor’s insistence on pulling back from the field, she'd refused desk duty. 
"Your health comes first, Agent Scully," he would assert, his stern expression belying the genuine care in his voice.
Normally, she would have fought back, insisting that her pregnancy was a condition, not a disability, but she knew he was right. After they found Mulder, there was no reason to continue taking unnecessary risks with her and the baby’s health.
Once she started to show, the whispers and questions of water cooler conversation were inevitable; however, she couldn’t help but note the immediate silence that followed them each time AD Skinner made his presence known.
In an unexpected twist of fate, the Lone Gunmen, the eccentric conspiracy theorists, emerged as Scully's unexpected allies. Frohike, Langly, and Byers, fueled by their insatiable curiosity, immersed themselves in research about prenatal care and parenting. They handed her a meticulously compiled information folder with quirky footnotes and personalized advice. "Trust us, Scully; we know more than you'd think about babies," Frohike would chuckle, his enthusiasm infectious.
Scully couldn’t help the tears that betrayed her; damned pregnancy hormones. It sounded like something Mulder would have done.
Initially, she couldn’t stand Agent John Doggett, a large part of said water cooler conversations. However, he quickly proved his steadfast determination. Scully had recently learned of his son, Luke, who had been tragically killed during his days in NYPD. They shared an equal passion for justice. And his pursuit was one that she could appreciate and understand. 
He had formed an unlikely bond with Scully, having her back throughout every twist and turn. 
From carrying heavy files to checking in on her to offering helpful tips and suggestions, he’d remembered from his ex-wife’s pregnancy. "I've got your back, Agent Scully. Always," he would say with a reassuring smile.
With her empathetic nature, Agent Monica Reyes sensed the depth of Scully's emotions. Having faced her share of challenges as an adoptee, Reyes quickly lent a sympathetic ear and shared her insights. They often spent evenings talking, finding solace in each other's company. It was an openness she likened to her late sister, Melissa. She felt a gravitational pull she couldn’t explain after their first encounter, making her reach out to the New Orleans field agent, curious to learn more.
"You're not alone in this, Dana. We're in it together," Reyes would remind her, her eyes reflecting genuine understanding.
As Scully's due date drew closer, the collective efforts of Skinner, the Lone Gunmen, Doggett, and Reyes reached a crescendo. They came together to orchestrate a surprise baby shower, a testament to the camaraderie they had formed. Skinner secured a charming venue, the Lone Gunmen curated an eclectic playlist, Doggett handled the logistics, and Reyes planned heartwarming games.
The day of the baby shower arrived, and Scully walked into the room, her heart swelling with gratitude. The decorations were a blend of quirky conspiracy-themed elements and heartwarming sentiments. Laughter and conversations flowed freely, creating an atmosphere of warmth and unity. As Scully mingled with her friends and colleagues, she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness as she realized once more that Mulder would not be there to share the journey.
Scully couldn't help but feel blessed. Skinner, the Lone Gunmen, Doggett, and Reyes had each played a unique note in this melody of support, and together, they had created a harmonious tune that resonated deep within her heart. Still, there would always be a gaping hole that somebody wouldn’t fill, that would only be filled by one person—her touchtone.
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cow-legs · 9 months ago
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What are some of your favorite videogames? ♡ ♡ ♡
(extremely long post incoming lol turns out i have a lot of things to say on this subject)
usually i have too hard of a time trying to remember anything i like to have answers for questions like these but thankfully for this one i have answers prepared since this is something i try to think about a lot
realistically if i had to pick one single "favorite videogame" above the rest itd probably just, like, ocarina of time & majora's mask (i'm considering them to be one videogame because i said so, it;s a package deal), just on account of how much of an impact they had on me from an early age combined with just how often i Still go back to revisit them in one way or another, but this is just about the most basic boring answer a person can have for this question unfortunately
thankfully you asked for some of my favorites instead of just one so i can unveil my Actual list of favorites instead of the one that only holds the top spot by technicality and not because i actually like it "the most". all of my favorite games have such a range in style and quality it's hard to really compare them in any meaningful way
anyway
crypt worlds, space funeral, and off-peak are all pretty different games made by very different people but i usually group them together when talking about stuff like this since collectively finding them all back in the day at roughly the same time kind of shaped my perception of indie games as a whole which probably gave me a very weird and skewed perception of the media but who gives a shit really it's a perception i hold dear. (they weren't the first indie games i ever saw of course but they were the most personally impactful ones that made me go "holy shit, this is awesome, you can do literally whatever you want")
they've pretty heavily influenced my own games, too. there have been multiple times i've started a project and then days later realized "wait shit this is just space funeral again. i'm just making space funeral again but slightly to the left. fuuuck" which is a pretty good problem to have i think.
anyway,
gadget: invention, travel, and adventure is an old point and click game i found a few years ago that struck me by just how unique feeling its atmosphere is. strange looking people turn to you and say even stranger sounding things, the soundtrack feels like its having a nervous breakdown, the main character is given so few meaningful decisions/actions (read: basically none) by the people around them that it can barely be considered a game at all…it is a very fascinating experience, and one that i think back to a lot
i like Your Turn To Die a lot and am very excited to see how it ends, though i feel like i don't have too much to say on it here. one of those games that has me going "oh man i should draw more fanart for that one of these days" every time i'm reminded of it only to then remember that i Can't Fucking Draw right now lmao
myhouse.wad is something that extremely deserves to go on this list but a large part of my brain is telling me not to just because somewhere along the line i fucked up and became allergic to anything that has ever recently become popular & trendy on youtube because i don't want to look like a poser even though literally no one but me cares about where i hear about these things so i can only bring myself to include it if i also state that i played it BEFORE it was cool &all the streamers started covering it like some kind of shameful hipster. but for real though its awesome, very inspiring stuff. i wish my brain did not force me to want to distance myself from it for literally no good reason. fucking ocarina of time is on this list why is this the thing that makes you afraid of looking like a normie
i have a lot of appreciation for myst in a kind of "i've never played more than 5 minutes of this nor have i even bothered to watch a playthrough of it but i understand what you have done for me and the games i love that came after you" kind of way. i have purchased 3 different copies of it over the years as well as a copy of riven and i don't intend on playing any of them anytime soon. great game, probably. i wouldn't know.
i like a lot of kitty horrorshow's games but i don't really know what my favorite would be. lethargy hill is probably the one i think about most often though.
i like (the steam version of) dwarf fortress a lot and have been trying to play it more often. it is very funny having 80 hours in a game and still not feeling like you understand half the mechanics in it. figuring it out as i go along has been fun though. in a similar vein i also like elden ring a lot and despite being at over 160 hours on that one i still haven't beaten it. i need to get back to it before the dlc comes out but i stopped playing for so long that most of my muscle memory is gone…
for something much more recent than all of the above, absolutely perfect specimen is something really incredible that gave me a lot of stuff to think about, though it can be a little hard to recommend since it's extremely 18+ and has a whole big list of content warnings you definitely need to take heed of. extremely interesting work though, i like it a lot.
i'm running out of things to list off and should probably stop just for the sake of time even if there is more shit that deserves mentioning so i'll just end it off with CLONE ON NET YAROZE BABYYYYYY LET'S FUCKIN GO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 💯💪🙌💥💯💯
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rathayibacter · 4 months ago
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Ask meme: Death, The Tower Reversed, Nine of Swords
[ask game here]
going off the beaten path, nice! ill try and do em justice lol
Death: Talk about an idea you’d love to make that no-one would expect from you.
this ones real tricky cuz i feel like my output is really eclectic. ive got some weird ideas in the books (like a collection of parallel-history card games, or a game-riddle that you can only play twice) but i dont know how many of them would be surprising coming from me, yknow? maybe the zine about how to run a Tarrasque would, given my noted.... disdain for dnd, but that wouldnt even really be about dnd yknow?
The Tower: Talk about about a game you tried to make that crashed and burned. Reversed: Talk about a game you were surprised didn't crash and burn.
ill do both of these! i had a game years back (pretty sure inspired by a Prokopetz post) called Party Planners, where youre a high-level adventuring party who spends more of their time throwing galas and managing your reputation as heroes and adventurers than you do actually saving the world. the idea was you had to meticulously schedule everything with a diegetic calendar, so you could make sure to attend all your rivals' events, set up your own, and fit in some adventuring on the side. new dungeons would pop up periodically and everyone would scramble to explore them first for the best loot and biggest bragging rights, but can you afford to do that when the same weekend youve gotta accept an honorary diploma from the wizard school? sadly the concept never got anywhere past "god thatd be really funny" despite trying to make little prototypes several times. i did wind up using a pared-down version of the calendar mechanic in Unskilled Labor though, so thats neat!
and for the flipside, BXLLET! i think ive told this story before, but i had BXLLET 95% done on my hard drive for three months before i finished and released it, because for some reason i was really struggling to get it to a place i was happy with and didnt wanna look at it. if it werent for my friends' passion about it, i dont know that i would have released it at all! which is such a weird thought now that its undeniably my most successful game, lmao. just goes to show, perfectionism's the enemy! reject its vile promises and put yourself out there, flawed and vulnerable, and let the chips fall where they may!
and hmm. nine of swords is usually associated with doubts and anxiety, which i kinda covered in the tower reversed, so lets take a slightly different spin on it
Nine of Swords: What's something you don't think you'll ever master, or that you struggle with every time?
working on large, long-term projects is definitely a struggle for me. ive been getting better at it, im happy with how KATABASIS is coming along even if i wish i could put out releases faster, but i definitely long to be one of those folks who can disappear for a few months and come back with 300 pages yknow? as it is i tend to juggle a couple projects at once, and then switch between them as the mood strikes or as i get blocked on something, and that helps me get things done but doesnt really lend itself to working on A Magnum Opus yknow
on a much more minor note, i wanna get better at worldbuilding around food. i cook! a lot! im pretty good at it! and yet for some reason whenever i sit down to write about food it doesnt come out right lmao
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midnightshard06 · 10 months ago
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The Bound By Fate au brain rot continues. I bring you something written this time. An expanded version of one of my flufftober prompts from the au. This one in particular, so that whole fic is within this one just some things mildly changed with the new context. There's still plenty of new stuff here though lol. I will likely eventually put this up on ao3 but it's just gonna be here for now.
Summary: Sonic meets Tails for the first time after the fox saves his life. Upon Sonic's return after their initial meeting to where Tails lives he realizes that the town has been taken over by a group of thugs and decides to do something about it.
Warnings: Mild blood and injury (not described in detail)
Word Count: 4747 words
Sonic moved as slowly and quietly through the maze like canyons as he could. He knew there were people on his trail and any wrong move could give away his location. It was dark, so at the very least he’d be able to see any lights approaching. His ears perked up as he heard the crunching of rock from not too far away. Pausing he scanned the area; entire body tensing in preparation to run. Honestly he really should have been more careful, something like this hadn't happened in a long time. Though he should have known that when he saw that group of hunters during the day that he should have just skipped town. Tired or not.
Once he was satisfied that there was nothing immediately near him he kept moving. If he was lucky they’d lose interest. Though he’d also just take keeping away from them all night at this point. Even if he’d be exhausted come morning he’d still be able to get away. Though keeping away from them was easier said than done. This was a decently large group and well organized he’d give it that. Their leader, an overzealous jackal who called himself Infinite, had proven to be pretty skilled. Sonic had managed to convince the jackal to spar with him during the day so he could get a feel for Infinite’s skill level. It had been closer than Sonic was expecting, but he hadn’t been in danger of losing. The massive downside to that fight though had been Infinite trying to recruit him all day until he’d left to prepare for a hunt with the rest of his group.
What was a group like that doing in a more populated place like this anyway? As far as he’d learned those that believed in “monsters” and actively seeked them out tended to stick to small towns. They always thought they’d have a better chance at finding something that way. Not that Sonic even really knew what these people were going after in the first place. They’d been established long before he was born and he’d never seen anything else like him.
Another nearby sound had him freezing. His ears swiveled around to try and figure out the source of the noise. It was hard to tell because of how the sound bounced off the canyon walls. As he concentrated though he realized that there was sound coming from multiple directions. His heart sank. They’d caught up. 
“You’re quite slippery, but we won’t let you get away that easily.” Infinite emerged from the darkness. He was hard to see due to his black fur, but the glint of a metal sword by his side was unmistakable. “Now you stand no chance of escape and we’ll finally be able to prove to the world our worth.” Sonic’s eyes darted around as the other jackals that made up the group made themselves known. He was surrounded. It was starting to look like his only way out of this would be to fight them. While he didn’t really want to hurt them he also wasn’t just going to lay down and die. “Now!” Infinite shouted before the whole group jumped forward to attack Sonic.
At first he did his best to avoid their strikes and keep an eye out for an opening to escape, but it quickly became clear that the strategy wasn’t going to cut it. By the time he first struck one of the jackals away from him, doing his best to avoid digging his claws into them, he already had a collection of cuts across his body. From there instincts kicked in and everything became a blur. For those moments, however long they were, his world became fight or be killed. By the time all but their leader were knocked out on the ground Sonic was panting heavily. Blood sluggishly dripped from the many cuts and gashes the hunter group had managed to inflict on him. As he stared down Infinite he could barely keep himself from toppling over. Although it was hard to tell in the darkness he’d be willing to bet he’d lost a lot of blood.
Infinite narrowed mismatched eyes at him. “You’ll pay for doing this to them.” He bared his teeth. Sonic couldn’t help but mentally quip back that the jackal had started this but he felt far too tired to say anything out loud. All he could do as the jackal charged him was raise his arms in a lackluster defense. Though much to his surprise Infinite suddenly stopped, pain twisting his face before he collapsed right in front of Sonic. Sonic blinked slowly in confusion before trying to look in the direction Infinite had been coming from. He could only make out a vague silhouette of what he thought was a fox before he felt himself collapsing.
Sonic slowly peeled his eyes open. He felt tired and sort of sore. Where was he? He carefully pushed the blanket that had been draped over him aside. Clearly it was daytime due to him currently not being a werehog. Now his biggest question was, where was he? The room he was in didn't look lived in really. There wasn't much in the way of personal items but he could tell that someone did in fact live here. The scent of someone else was all the proof he needed for that. There were some bandages wrapped around most of his body so he’d be willing to bet that whoever did live here didn’t want him dead. Why waste the time to patch someone up if you were just going to kill them? Of course he felt like he was already mostly healed up, but he’d leave the bandages on for now. Might be weird if he didn’t. Deciding he wasn’t going to figure out anything by staying in the room he opened the door and poked his head out. His ears swiveled around trying to pick up any noise but he couldn’t hear anything. He frowned. Was whoever lived here out? That seemed irresponsable. He decided to slowly walk through the house. Maybe they were just somewhere he couldn’t hear them. He paused. Wait, why was he even here? He couldn’t really remember much from last night but surely something must have happened. Did whoever this was see him in his werehog form? Shaking his head he decided to worry about that later. If this was going to become a problem he could easily run off. They probably wouldn’t be expecting him to be able to move around so soon. It was a nice little house he had to admit, and pretty neat too. If he had some permanent place he stayed he doubted it would stay this clean. Suddenly he heard a noise and he spun around to where it came from. A young looking fox stared back at him, clearly surprised to see him. “You’re up already?” The fox asked. “Uuuuh yeah?” Sonic answered. The two stared at each other in awkward silence for a bit. Sonic knew if he started talking it would just be a flood of questions. “Do you… need anything? Water maybe?” The fox nervously messed with his gloves. Sonic just nodded and gave the kid a shaky smile. Where were his parents? Why would anyone leave their kid alone, especially with a stranger? “Sooo I have to ask, where am I?” Sonic asked after the fox came back with a glass of water. “My house. I brought you back here after I knocked out that guy who was after you last night.” The fox looked down.
Sonic briefly choked on the water he was sipping. “U-uh last night? Like actually at night?” He gripped the cup tightly and had to mentally make sure to not use enough pressure to break it.
“Yeah?” The fox seemed confused for a moment before understanding passed over his face. “Oh! I uh did see your other form, but don’t worry!” He waved his hands in front of him. “I don’t mind, and I’m not going to tell anyone!”
Sonic supposed that was probably the truth. If he was scared of Sonic he wouldn’t be here right now. He relaxed his grip and nodded. “Right, ok. Cool.” He sighed and tried to remember what had happened. It started to come back slowly. Being chased by that monster hunting group that had shown up not long after he’d transformed. Getting cornered in the unfamiliar landscape. Not wanting to hurt them even as they attacked him. Then the same fox that was standing in front of him now somehow knocking out Infinite before he could finish Sonic off. “Thank you.” Sonic supposed that was the bare minimum he owed the fox for saving him. He held out a hand. “Name’s Sonic by the way. How did you even know I was in trouble?”
The fox took the offered hand. “Miles Prower, and I may have been following you.” Miles rubbed the back of his head guiltily.
“So you… saw me transform?” Sonic wasn’t really mad he found, just curious.
“I did.” Miles nodded. “I saw you earlier when you came into town and you seemed so nice and cool. I don’t know…” He kicked the ground. “I just wanted to know what you were doing I guess.”
“Fair enough.” Sonic shrugged. “I feel like if I was in your shoes I’d do the same.”
“You’re not mad?” Miles looked up in surprise.
“Why would I be? You saved me dude! How could I be mad at the guy who saved me?” Sonic grinned. Shyly, Miles returned the grin. Before Sonic could ask something else he noticed something about Miles he hadn’t before. The fox had an extra tail. “Oh you have an extra tail?” Admittedly it was pretty hard to tell because of the way Miles was trying to curl the two tails together.
Sonic did not expect Miles to jump and suddenly look very, very afraid. He stood there dumbfounded for a moment, even looking behind him to see if someone or something else was there. There was nothing. He turned back to look at Miles. The fox’s eyes were still blown wide and he’d started shaking, his two tails were curled up even tighter around one another. Sonic frowned and suddenly it clicked. He immediately felt awful. Ok this was fine. He could fix this.
Slowly he put a hand on Miles’ shoulder. Predictably the fox flinched. “Hey it’s ok. I think it’s cool. The extra tail. Makes you unique.” Sonic gave what he hoped was a reassuring smile.
Miles looked down and grabbed both his tails. “It makes me a target…”
Sonic hummed. “Well whoever’s been messing with you are just a bunch of jerks who don’t know what they’re talking about.”
Miles looked at him in shock. “B-but I’m different a freak I-” He paused as it sunk in who he was talking to.
“I know a thing or two about that Miles.” Sonic tapped him on the nose. “Take it from an expert, you're no freak. Those jerks have no idea what they’re talking about.”
Suddenly he had an armful of fox and he happily returned the sudden hug. It was an odd feeling, to not be slightly on edge around someone. It was a feeling he’d happily embrace though. No one before Miles knew about his werehog form, and the kid was fine with it. Maybe others could be too… He quickly shook that thought from his mind. He’d been gone after far too many times to entertain that for very long. “Thank you…” It was muffled but Sonic could still hear it.
“You’re welcome. I’m sorry that you don’t hear enough people say that.” Sonic rubbed Miles’ back. Eventually Miles let go and gave Sonic a shaky smile. “Hey how bout this. What if I give you a nickname?” Sonic gave Miles a wide grin.
“A nickname?” Miles tilted his head.
“Yeah! I have a feeling I’ll be sticking around a lot and while Miles iiiis a pretty cool name I have an idea for something I think would fit you.” Sonic winked. Miles nodded excitedly. “How about I call you Tails? Cause of how cool yours are.”
Tails gave him a big smile. “I love it.” “So…” Tails glanced over at Sonic who was carefully undoing the unneeded bandages. He’d stuck around for about a day, dealing with a restless night inside to avoid Infinite and his group, but he was eager to get away from here even if he was hesitant to leave Tails alone. Sure he’d just met the kid but Sonic hadn’t met anyone else who he felt completely at ease with before. It wasn’t something he was keen to give up too quick. “How long are you going to be here for?”
Sonic hummed. “Not too sure. I should probably stick around at least one more day to make sure everything’s healed up ok.” He inspected his arm after successfully removing the bloody bandages. He tried to not think about just how close things had been as he ran his other hand along the fur of his arm. Good news was his arm seemed more or less fine. Not even scars to indicate where one of the jackals’ swords had sliced him.
“O-oh right.” Tails grabbed his arm and looked away. “Guess it makes sense that you want to get out of here as soon as you can.”
Sonic put his arm down and frowned as he took in the sad look on the fox’s face. “Hey, buddy. Look at me.” Sonic said gently. Hesitantly Tails looked over at him, hunching in on himself. Sonic’s heart twisted painfully at the sight of the distressed fox. There was no way he could leave the kid feeling like this. He knew all too well what it was like to be alone. How could he in good conscience leave Tails feeling the same way? He opened his arms in silent invitation and it was quickly accepted. It was odd that even after only really knowing the fox for a day he felt protective of him. It felt like they’d known each other much longer. “I’ll come back ok? I promise.” Here he was breaking one of his personal rules for the fox. Never come back to somewhere that people had seen the werehog.
“Really?” Tails’ voice was muffled and soft, but Sonic managed to barely hear it.
“Yeah.” Sonic ruffled the fur on the top of Tails’ head. Tails laughed weakly and pulled himself away from Sonic. 
Tails seemed to search his face for a moment before nodding. “Alright. I believe you.” He wrung his hands. “Don’t be gone too long ok?”
Sonic gave him a soft smile. “I’ll be back before you know it buddy.” Sonic grinned as he caught sight of Tails’ town in the distance. It had been a couple months since he’d first met the fox and in that time he’d finally managed to shake off the apprehension he felt coming back here. It would be good to see him again; see what the fox had been up to. As he sped towards the town he did subconsciously avoid the canyon he’d been caught in before. He also happened to notice something was wrong. As he slowed down and started to walk into town he noticed that everyone seemed to be off the streets. The town looked practically abandoned. He would have thought that too if he couldn’t pick up the occasional noise of someone moving in one of the buildings. 
Suddenly a pang of panic shot through him. Was Tails ok? With no more hesitation he made his way towards the fox’s house. As he expected, the door was locked. Thankfully Tails had been insistent on giving him a key before he left the first time. Sonic felt that the move was maybe a bit irresponsible on the fox’s part, him and Sonic had only known each other for a few days after all, but it would come in handy now. After fishing the key out of one of the bags around his belt he quickly unlocked the door and opened it. Before he could turn around to close and relock it he heard the sound of some sort of mechanism releasing and felt something wrap tightly around his legs. Unable to keep his balance he fell to the floor in a daze.
“Take that you…” Tails popped out from behind some sort of barrier Sonic hadn’t noticed before. His slightly defiant expression faded as soon as he realized it was Sonic. “Sonic!” He scrambled over the makeshift barrier before hastily untying Sonic’s legs. Tails glanced around before closing the door and relocking it. “What are you doing here?” Tails asked as he helped Sonic up. “Not that I'm not happy to see you!” Tails hastily added. “I uh, sort of thought you weren’t going to come back… but you’re here now!” He grinned.
“I was coming back to visit you. Like I promised.” Sonic shook himself out. He’d file away the information that Tails didn’t think he was coming back to address later. For now he needed to figure out what was going on. “What happened here?”
“A couple of skunks came here a few days ago and started acting like they owned the place. They started taking anything they wanted and were forcing people to do things for them.” Tails gently guided Sonic around to the back of his barrier. “Most of us just blocked ourselves in to hopefully avoid them though sometimes them or some of the others they brought with them have been breaking into people’s houses.”
Sonic hummed. “No one here to stop them? Not even… Infinite and his group?” He cringed as he suggested the very group that had hunted him down and nearly killed him the last time he was here. Surely though they’d have been able to handle some rouge group of petty thieves that had rolled into town. Something told Sonic that Infinite wouldn’t like some other group encroaching on his turf, even if they weren’t another hunter group.
“They’ve been gone for a while now, looking for you I think.” Tails frowned. 
Well that was… not great news. He’d have to be extra careful to avoid the group when he came back to visit Tails. “Alright.” Sonic nodded as he started to quickly stretch. “Guess I’ll just have to take care of them myself.”
Tails’ eyes widened in panic. “You can’t fight them on your own! There’s way too many of them.”
Sonic shot him what he hoped was a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry about me. This isn’t the first time I’ve had to deal with guys like them. Probably won’t be the last either. Just point me in the right direction and this’ll all be over in no time.”
Tails frowned and looked down. Sonic thought for a moment that maybe the fox wasn’t going to tell him before Tails sighed and gave him a determined look. “I’m going with you.” There wasn’t any room for argument in his tone.
Well it could be helpful to have someone watching his back… even if he didn’t love the idea of putting the fox in harm’s way. Though he was pretty sure there was no way he could convince Tails to stay here. Instead he grinned and nodded. “Alright. Just do your best to keep up.” “Is this all you’ve got?” Sonic smirked triumphantly as he quickly spin dashed into the last of what he was calling the lower level thugs. “Geez you guys are really all talk huh?” He crossed his arms.
Tails crawled out from behind the crate he’d been hiding behind and looked around in awe. “That was amazing!” He looked at Sonic with pure admiration and he almost couldn’t handle a look like that being aimed at him. It was so different to what he was used to.
Instead of letting the fox pick up on that though Sonic just chuckled. “Well of course. I just so happen to be the coolest guy around. Now then. Let’s go have a chat with the people on top shall we?” Sonic cracked his knuckles as he turned to the door.
Tails hummed as he looked at the door. “I have an idea actually.” He pulled the backpack he’d grabbed before they left off his back and started looking through it. “If you can lead those two out here… then the fight should be over before it can really start.” Tails pulled… something out of his bag that Sonic had no idea what it was. He trusted his friend though.
“You got it. How long do you need to do whatever you’re doing?” Sonic gave him a thumbs up and decided not to comment on the way Tails relaxed as he agreed.
The fox glanced around the room they were in, picking up a nearby piece of rope. “Five minutes.” He said after a moment.
“Heh. Easy.” Sonic nodded before kicking down the door that led to the two that started all this. The two skunks that were in the room looked surprised for a moment before both looking annoyed.
“Just who the heck do you think you are!?” The smaller one yelled.
“Who me?” Sonic rose a brow and put a hand on his chest. “Oh you know just someone who’s passing through.
“Then you can keep passin through right back out that door before we make you.” The larger skunk threatened.
Sonic gave the duo an assessing look. They looked capable enough but he was pretty confident that even if Tails didn’t have a plan he could take down these two. Plus they were making it real easy to stall for those five minutes Tails needed. “No, I don’t think I’ll be the one going anywhere.” Sonic grinned and crossed his arms. “I’ll give you two one chance to pack up and leave on your own though.”
“Alright that’s it.” The smaller skunk growled. “Get ready for a beatdown.”
“You better be humble.” The other chimed in.
“There’s no way you’re gonna beat-” The first chimed in again. What was happening?
“Rough and Tumble!” The two finished together.
The two struck a pose and Sonic stared in stunned silence for a moment. Then he couldn’t hold back his laughter at the whole scene. As he held up a hand while he tried to get himself under control the two looked offended. “Sorry sorry.” Sonic chuckled as his laughter died down. “I have to know. How often do you two do that?”
Instead of answering him the two rushed at him. Well if Sonic had been keeping track of time well enough then Tails should be good to go. As the two recklessly charged at him he quickly sidestepped out of the way and watched as the two crashed into the other room. The moment they were in there multiple ropes and nets shot from various parts of the room and practically cocooned the duo of skunks. Sonic poked his head in to make sure everything was good and smiled as Tails emerged and gave him a thumbs up. “Got them.”
“Sure did buddy.” Sonic walked over to Tails and held his hand out for a fist bump. Tails happily returned the gesture. “Great work.” He looked over at Rough and Tumble. The two were trying in vain to escape. “Now we just have to deal with these two…” Tails stuck close to his side as local law enforcement led the defeated thugs away. Sonic knew that the two of them were attracting a lot of attention from the townsfolk who had slowly been wandering out of their houses to see what was going on. He really didn’t like the looks some of them were giving Tails, and the fact that the bit of confidence that the fox had been showing while helping was completely gone had Sonic about ready to snap. 
“I would like to sincerely thank you for your help sir.” One of the officers, a cat, came over and gave Sonic a thankful nod. His eyes lingered on Tails far too long for Sonic’s liking.
He frowned as he placed a gentle hand on Tails’ head. “Miles here helped too. I couldn’t have done it without him or his inventions.” He could feel Tails’ head turn to look up at him, probably in disbelief.
The cat blinked in surprise. “You don’t need to lie-”
Sonic held up his free hand, frown deepening. “I’m not. His help was invaluable and I want to make sure everyone here knows he’s just as responsible for saving the town as I am.” There were a lot of murmurs as the townsfolk all started to talk to each other in hushed voices. What things Sonic could make out he didn’t like.
The cat tried to regain his composure. “I’m sure you would have been fine without the mons-”
Sonic swiftly laid a hand on the officer’s shoulder. It was light, but he knew his look was intimidating regardless. He didn’t get mad often, but people had described it as pretty scary when he did. “Don’t you dare finish that.” Sonic narrowed his eyes and bared his teeth. The officer shakily nodded before Sonic let him go. He turned to scan the crowd that had formed; careful to keep his angry gaze off of Tails. “I need all of you to understand something really basic. Take it from the guy who just helped save your town. Just because someone is different doesn't mean they’re a mon-” He took a deep breath. “Doesn’t mean they’re a monster.” He clenched his fists. “Miles is my friend and what he can do is amazing. He’s amazing. So all of you need to stop treating him differently for something he had no choice in. People don’t ask to be born differently but they are anyway.” He pinned his ears down and let his expression soften as he walked back over to Tails. “You ok bud?” He asked quietly, ignoring the murmuring which had started back up again.
Tails gave him a shaky smile as tears gathered in his eyes. “Yeah.” He sniffled. “No one has ever stood up for me like that before.
“Well as long as I’m around there’ll be at least one.” Sonic smiled.
“Thank you Sonic.” Tails wiped away the tears before they could fall.
“No, thank you Tails.” Sonic ruffled his head. “You helped me and I’m happy to help you.”
Tails gently pulled Sonic into a hug. Once again something Sonic happily accepted. “I don’t think you’re a monster.” Tails said quietly, so quiet that if he hadn’t been so close Sonic would have never heard it. “No one that’s as nice as you can be one.” 
Sonic smiled into Tails’ fur. He felt warm. The fox couldn’t know how much that simple sentence meant for Sonic to hear. Well, maybe he could. “Thank you.” He said just as quietly as Tails’ statement. “Now let’s get out of here.”
“Yeah.” Tails’ reluctantly pulled away. His smile was stronger now. “Let’s go.” Sonic perked up as he heard the door open and shut. “You back Tails?” It had been a few days since the whole Rough and Tumble thing and Sonic had been staying with Tails. With Infinite and his group not here at the moment he felt way more comfortable staying around for longer. Plus he wanted to make sure he’d actually gotten through to the townsfolk with his little speech.
“Yep!” Tails happily called out before poking his head around the corner.
“Everyone nice to you?” Sonic stood up to go meet him.
“Well, not mean at least. It’s better though.” Tails rubbed the back of his head. “It’s probably going to take a bit of time for things to improve even more.”
Sonic hummed but nodded in satisfaction. “Good enough for now. You just let me know if I need to set them straight ok bud?”
“I will Sonic.” Tails nodded although Sonic was fairly convinced that Tails probably wouldn’t say anything to him. He’d have to work on that. For now he wanted to enjoy some peace with his friend.
“Good. Now wanna play some games?” Sonic smiled and the way Tails’ face lit up was all the answer he needed. Oh yeah, he was so glad Tails had found him that night.
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ladye-zelda · 6 months ago
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Warriors angsting corner
Folktales
The cursed Deity
There’s more I want to ask about but… I haven’t caught up to anything you’ve already asked
XD No worries; I have updated the list to put check marks on the ones that I have done so that way it would be easier for everyone XD (and for myself too)
Warriors angsting corner
This was really meant to be a dump of stories to inflict pain upon our pretty knight (inspired by Silver) but I only have one thing on there called the Orphaned Knights AU and I swear I don't remember writing this XD Its one of those fics where all of the Chain just adopts each other I think lol
There really isn't a good place for a WIP (since it's all written like a summary except it's freaking long) and the short of it is Wars, Sky, Wild, Hyrule, and Wind are orphans; Twilight and Four are siblings and the sons of Time except Four lives with Time's adopted father for some reason; Time goes back to the military to fight monsters, Twilight sneaks out and joins the army to find him where he ends up meeting Warriors there; Sky, Wild, and Hyrule end up joining the military and Four and Legend become blacksmiths for them as well.
Yeah I have no idea where this fic was going lol
Folktales, but Zelda
This was kind of inspired by @/telemna-hyelle's own Zeldafied-folktale and I just wanted to make some of my own XD
The only one that I have in this doc is selkie Legend, largely inspired by the song "The Maiden and the Selkie" by Heather Dale
It was forbidden for a selkie to come upon land. It was made common among the seal-folk of the dangers of living on land outside of their seal form. If they were to stay on land past the stroke of midnight, they would surely die. But just because it was forbidden, didn’t mean it didn’t happen often. Legend had often admired the above world. He had spent more time on land than any of his other brethren, collecting trinkets and watching the usual passer-by from the safety of the beach. That was, until she came. People who passed by Legend unaware often spoke of the lady. A woman with red hair, dressed in island blue, with a voice that chimed like a harp. She had been walking along the beach while Legend was up there in his human form. He had stopped collecting trinkets as he stared at her with awe as the strange woman strolled along the beach, singing sweetly. Oftentimes she would stop to make friendly conversation with the seagulls. They seemed to talk back to her; a charm usually possessed by faery folk like he. 
The Cursed Deity
Honestly have no idea where this fic was going too, but I had written something for this one XD
The threat that surrounded Hyrule was too great not to check out for herself. Princess Zelda, alongside Link, journeyed far into the woods not long after the strange attacks started. Monsters covered in a strange, dark malice had been attacking the nearby villages and towns. Already one has been massacred before the monsters had cleared the area, and Princess Zelda wasn’t going to allow it again. She was always on her guard, staring daggers into the shadows around her. They were lucky enough not to run into too much trouble, despite heading deep into the heart of this problem. It could only mean that something bigger was on the horizon. Link pressed a hand onto Zelda’s clenched fists, that she didn’t even know were clenched. She looked down and relaxed a little, repositioning one of her hands so she was holding his. They looked into each other’s eyes and he gave a comforting nod. She was with Link. She had no reason to be afraid while he’s around. Then why was she so afraid? They rode for a little longer until the woods started to thin. Black, charred tree logs replaced what was once green, and soon enough their horses’ feet were crunching through dead grass. The trail ended in a sloping drop to an endless valley of death.  She could hardly believe her eyes as she showed her steed into a stop. What had once been a beautiful meadow on her map was now gone. Large rocks of inky blackness covered the map, which sent an uncomfortable chill down Zelda’s spine. Right in the middle of the cluster of rocks, looked to be a statue of some kind, glowing eerily with a black light. The hero and the princess dismounted from their horses, looking into the valley beyond. “That must be the source there,” Zelda said, pointing to the statue. “The Master Sword should be enough to—” Suddenly, the Master Sword was placed in Zelda’s hands. “Link, what are you doing?” the princess asked. “I’m going to go check it out,” he said, “take this, and run if anything bad happens.” He gave her the Hylian shield before sliding down into the valley below. Zelda called out to Link, but it was too late. He couldn’t hear her voice once he made it to the bottom, and headed carefully to the stone statue.
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cabeswaterdrowned · 4 months ago
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🌹
because of favoritism (lol) I’m going to give you a two snippets from tessellation (Blue and Adam in a time loop TRK divergent) the first one is on the long side from the already published chapter and then the latter one is from the 2nd chapter which I’m struggling with writing atm tbh. So here we go:
Ch.1—-“Why would Cabeswater have us go back in the days and not Ronan?” she asked him. “If Ronan’s the one who made it?”
Adam shrugged. “Beats me. Maybe because you're a mirror, and I made the deal. And maybe the creator can only be so involved in how it works, like with cars.”
Blue thought about this for a moment. When she thought about creating things, she thought of sewing the lace detail on Persephone’s white dress, or stitching together her fingerless gloves. She made things that would stay in her own life, and if they were for herself she could continue to work on them for as long as she pleased. Adam, on the other hand, thought of cars.
As they stepped through the doorway of 300 fox way, Blue and Adam were greeted by the wailing song of Gwenllian. “And on his deathbed, the king once said, my bride my bride, I leave ye before the stroke of midnight.” 
“I’ll kill her,” Blue hissed at Adam. 
“I’ll watch,” he said. She wasn’t sure if he was joking or not. “But after we make her help us.” 
At the kitchen table in fox way, Maura and Calla were sitting with a large pot of one of Maura’s herbal tea on the counter. They looked like they were arguing, as they frequently did these days. The two women loved each other, however they relied on a third party to mediate their squabbles. Persephone had been that third party. Her absence, compounded by the return of Artemus who Calla clearly had no respect for as a concept, had led to a tense dynamic between the two. Blue did her best not to get in the middle of it, but she felt a sense of hopelessness about it. She couldn’t help them, she couldn’t be Persephone. Yet she also wasn’t doing a very good job of helping her friends — at least she was being given a second chance at that. At saving her best friend who she had fallen in love with. 
Maura looked up at them in surprise. “Blue, I thought you were going out to the party with —” She blinked at Adam, as if taken aback by his presence. “Oh, hi. I didn’t expect you to be here.”
“What's the coca cola t-shirt one doing here?” asked Calla with less tact. “I thought you wouldn’t be in a rush to be here, not with Blue and not after…” Her voice cracked at the end. Adam hung his head slightly. “Persephone told me.” He said. “About Gansey. I’m here to help Blue… I want to protect him.” 
Calla gazed at him with narrow eyes. “Hmmm. Alright, you do that. I want a cup of coffee, not whatever this is.”
“Oolong, Pomegranate and Vanilla.” Maura huffed. “I made it with everything you like.”
“I don’t need everything I like all at once.” returned Calla. 
“Sorry to interrupt,” Blue interrupted, not feeling sorry at all. “We have bigger problems. Adam and I came back in time more than 24 hours, because of Cabeswater.” That jolted both women to attention. “You went back in time?” asked Maura. “Such a short window of time…is it…” she and Calla wordlessly communicated with their eyes. 
“They’re in a time loop.” said a third voice, high and shrill. One that was no longer singing. 
Adam crossed the room towards Gwenllian in a couple of long strides, and Blue was bitterly jealous of his long legs as she followed to match him. She crossed her arms over her chest and glared at Gwenllian. 
“Why didn’t you stop him,” she said bitterly.
“Stop who? What?” asked Maura, but they were busy staring Gwenllian down. 
“I could not have stopped him if I tried.” replied Gwenllian, annoyingly cool and collected all of a sudden. “It was his destiny, and he rose to claim it. A lesser boy-king would have cowered behind the two of you and your warrior friend. Wouldn’t have dared leave the comforts of his bed. You should both be proud he did what needed to be done. You were not blindly led by a man such as my father.” 
“Hang on,” interrupted Calla. “You can feel that you're in a loop with them?” 
Gwenllian nodded. “When you’ve been awake as long as I have, it’s difficult for time to play tricks on you.” 
That seemed counterintuitive to Blue, but Maura nodded as though the explanation were as logical as “water is wet” or “don’t leave a glass of milk outside for too long”. 
Ch.2 — “Adam felt at a loss for words for a moment. A part of him hadn’t believed Gansey was still alive here, yet here he was. He wanted a moment to bask in this. But there wasn’t time, not really. His eyes went from Gansey’s face to Ronan’s. The set of his jaw was tight with worry, Adam could tell. He’d kissed that mouth yesterday… and that also wasn’t important right now. The worst and best things had happened to him yesterday and he could neither revel in being with Ronan, nor could he break down in despair over what had happened to Gansey because both things had been erased.”
Ty <3
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