#still not yappin tho :3

[hinamie]

Spirit bending Gojo in the au???? 👀👀👀👀

the only spirit that is bending is MINE im crying r yall like. collectively trying 2 break me down until i crack and spill his lore or smth fHGFJH

anyway mama didnt raise no SNITCH >:c

[xxplastic-cubexx]

it doesnt need to be said but its genuinely so funny how at-the-hip charles and erik are in krakoa like they really had the green light- the OBLIGATION- to be as obnoxiously close to each other as possible and abused that right to the fullest extent

[laika-of-the-stars]

that scene with cyn/the solver and uzi at the very end where the solver/cyn is still a part of uzi.... so OSSDID/System coded fr fr.... im going insane abt it. im so autistical abt this

please please PLEASE send me asks abt this i am so eager to talk to ppl abt it

(rambles in tags)

[fortemelody]

AHHHSHFBTKFNTLFKGNFMDM SONIC 3 TRAILER SONIC 3 TRAILER SONIC 3 TRAILER IM LOOSING MY SHIT RN

here’s some things i noticed/wondered/loved:

- i think in that scene where tom is on the ground yelling for sonic, he is wearing a special forces suit. maybe he upgraded from cop to working with gun?? if so i think that’s a really good use of his character actually! he wanted to save a life and raise a family above all else yes, but he still got his previous dream of doing more serious cop work!

- shadow just. has a big ass portal?? like holy shit he’s just suckin the life outta earth and ig that’s one way to do it (or maybe it’s just a ring and i’m stupid idek)

- i’m sure we’ll learn more about this in the actual movie so i’m not too worried, but i’m super confused at the very beginning scene. apparently sonic didn’t change his heart…but he did tho? like he learned what being a true hero meant in the last movie. tbh i feel like that’s enough but hey i’m not against more character development for our boy so!! (also that bit where he’s like “in my lungs” was actually really funny to me, ben schwartz’ awesome delivery caught me off guard)

- GERALD ROBOTNIK ALIVE HUUUUH?! tbh i would’ve preferred if maria was alive, i feel like that would be an interesting dynamic. but also ig that would make it harder for shadow to learn anything so i totally get it. anyways i’m just glad they’re putting a little twist on the story, it keeps it interesting. they already sorta did that with the knuckles and iblis thing actually! (even if that show sucked ass and although that probably wasn’t intentional 😭)

- even tho bro only got like… 3 lines, i really think keanu fits shadow. he’s very soft spoken in comparison to the rest of the case which feels nice. also he’s like the “really bad” guy so ofc he’s not gonna be yappin on and on like sonic or robotnik and he’s gonna take things uber seriously.

- where was my girl maddie :( i think she was only in like a singular frame. hope shes in the movie a somewhat significant amount. i heart pretzel lady!! could live without wade tho like pls im so sick of his bowling soap opera 💀

- FAT ROBOTNIK FAT ROBOTNIK FAT ROBOTNIK!!! after fucking 3 movies they finally fulfilled jim carrey’s wishes!! let the man get creative like please i love jim carrey sm aughdfhfnfmschxj. also love how we got so much stobonik content within that short scene like jesus come get y’all’s food

- shadow at one point says something along the lines of “when we’re done, there won’t be anything left.” maybe i’m reading WAY to into this but what does the “we’re” part mean?? is he working with others? i feel like this is either gonna be team dark or some new movie exclusive character(s). edit: someone made a valid point that he’s actually probably referring to gerald (look at reblogs!)

-CHAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! lowkey wonder if the room therye in is like an amusement park or somethin like that

- no sign of amy :( but honestly my prediction now is that she’s gonna be the post credit scene teaser cus they always do a new character reveal there. first tails, then shadow. and honestly now i think it might be better that way so shadow can have a chance to breathe and show his story in full. i’m pretty sure i vaguely remember colleen (tails’ VA) being kinda mysterious about amy’s appearance when asked, and also the fact that it was confirmed that this isn’t the end of the movie franchise/universe. but ig we’ll just have to wait and see!

so sorry i stated this yesterday morning to give my initial thoughts but then got busy and completely forgot to post/finish it. and today i started (and am close to finishing) a very long edit of the trailer, so be on the look out for that too!

genuinely i feel like this movie is gonna somehow be even more record breaking than any of the previous movies and i am so here for the hype 🙏

[another-delta-lover]

show me ur tf2 fan designs!!!! i want to see em :]

HELLOOOO SORRY I HAVEN'T REPLIED THIS IN SO LOOONGGGG, I'VE BEEN PROCASTINATING A LOTTT

HERE THEY ARE!! SORRY FOR ANSWERING LATE.. THE PROCASTINATION DEMONS.... ANYWAY. These are mostly based on lil pootis blu designs. not the RED ones bc they already exist. INFO ABOUT EM:

Blu Scout:

His name is jeremy

he's RED scout's twin, both are bio children of RED spy

he makes out with BLU sniper

out of the closet, BLU medic made his TRANS sugeries

BLU soldier:

his name is John Doe

he's traumatized. The war.

RED Soldier is his clone

Makes out with RED demo, but still in the closet

BLU pyro:

sad bc she can't light stuff on fire (he lives with the other BLU mercs IN A PLACE WITH SNOW!!1[lil pootis changed me as a person])

She's RED Pyro's clone

likes the BLU Spy's style teehee.

has shown their face to the team

BLU demo:

I forgot what name I gave her aughh

He's RED demo's clone

even tho she's mtf, she doesn't want to transition and still uses he pronouns, WHICH IS TOTALLY VALID.

Beautiful hair

WEARS A SCOTTISH SKIRT

BLU Heavy:

His name is Nikolai<3 sighhh...

he's the most perfect man you could ever meet. He's soso nice... 💕

he has daddy issues. He lived with like 10 brothers, he was the middle one. He wasn't treated right 😔😔😔

he would be the best dad ever AUGHHH

He's secretaly married to BLU medic teehee

BLU engie:

His name is dave :)

He's red engie's clone

he's taller than RED engie, they also like to spend time together even tho they're the same person

BLU medic:

His name is Frank (REFERENCE TO MY FAV BOOK)

His fav dove is called Viktor (ALSO REFERENCE TO MY FAV BOOK)

He's RED heavy's ex 😶we don talk about that tho.

He makes out hard with BLU heavy. He likes his organs. In taste, I mean. He a lil insane. but he'll be fine (<- me when I lie)

RED medic is his clone. He's terrified of him. He's the one that created the clones of all the mercs that have clones. He regrets it.

BLU sniper:

I forgot his name too aughh

He's BLU scout's partner

She's RED Sniper's clone

THEY HATE IT HERE. THEY HATE COLD. TAKE THEIR AUSTRALIAN ASS OUT OF THERE!!!

He has inmense beef with RED spy bc she's making out with his son XDD

BLU spy:

The salesman and the hooker.

she's RED spy's clone

they have the MOST PRONOUNS BC THEY WOKE🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

she likes to be annoying towards RED spy, RED sniper and RED engie.

he's a CUNT

IF U HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT EM I'LL GLADLY ANSWER EM ALL!! SORRY FOR YAPPIN TOO MUCH BTW

[miyamoratsumuu]

your moots as tropes?

you unleashed the yappinator nonnie 🤙🏼 HIHI OK HERE WE GO!!

@lounaticcc what ifff childhood sweethearts!!!! those cute little pairs of kids promising to marry each other when they're older and sharing a ring pop AAAAAGH I could def see that with louise!!! just the innocence and genuineness of that trope reminds me so much of her<3

@daetko 100% childhood friends to lovers type!! I always thought of this trope as something so genuine and wholesome 🙇🏻‍♀️ talia's always super duper sweet and genuine, idk she just fits the vibe!! 🫶🏻

@rueclfer HEAR ME OUT!!!! what if bodyguard trope if that's even a thing BC LIKE every time I think of rue I instantly think of touya 😸 so if not villain, then 100% hired bodyguard/protector!!!! (protective touya ehem) OR OR ROCKSTAR ROMANCE AAAAGH I could think of so many tropes for rue actually, and most of them I don't even have a proper reason for??? they just fit like that 😋

@rinne-mio don't be mad at me, but what if playing hard to get trope 🥰🥰 I could see rin as the type to refuse affection when face to face with a suitor or what but the moment they turn their back on her she's squealing like crazy LMAOAHAHA sorry rin I mean this in the best way possible tho ily 🫶🏻 "lambingin mo naman ako" vibes sheesh I could go on and on about this one actually

@whenanafallsinlove secret relationship mayhaps?? ana seems like such a genuine lover to me and I actually don't think she'll be the type to keep a relationship a complete secret 🙏🏼 BUT you know those lowkey relationships where people would only know they're dating bc they asked the supposed couple? yep!! I could see ana in that hihi

@seumyo hear me out when I say roommates to lovers 🤲🏻🤲🏻 ESPECIALLY SINCE LIKE I saw your few latest posts about moving into your new place, and I think it fits??? I haven't actually talked to eumy much to the point that I'm more than sure with what trope to give her but I have a feeling that she's not the type to easily fall, but when given a certain amount of time to know someone I think maybe it'll work???

@sweetheartsaku say it with me HIGHSCHOOL SWEETHEARTS HIGHSCHOOL SWEETHEARTS!!!! saku's the type of lover that despite only being in highschool just might give it her all AND I'M SO SORRY IF I'M WRONG ABOUT THIS 😞😞 ALSO ALSO LIKE!! I could back up this claim with her most recent instagram story and idk!!! I just feel like saku's the type to softlaunch a highschool lover like how the layout of your latest ig story was 🙏🏼🙏🏼

@angeliicheartt I'm not too sure about this one but I think academic rivals to lovers??? OR ATLEAST LIKE rivals in one hobby to lovers 😽 elle would absolutely not give up on something she loves so easily just bc someone else came along and might be better than her at it so what if that leads to yk yk tk

@lunatiqez fake dating mayyybeee?? not completely sure about this one too, BUT HEAR ME OUT!!!! I could totally see liv in those typical plots where there's a situation where she needs to "fake date" someone to save one of their reputations or something, then eventually they fall in love ALL THAT!!! but with this one, both of them actually know they're starting to fall for each other but decide to do nothing about it!!!! bc like I said, everything they did was all just for the act of saving a public reputation

@kovu-bunnbunn I think I could see kovu in "touch my lover and see what happens" IDEK IF THAT'S A TROPE BUT STILL!!! feel like kovu would be one of those protective lovers but not in a bad way!! and I feel like their lover would do the same for them too 🤝🏻

[111ikuyuh]

˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚TRUST AND THE UNIVERSE ˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

Intro: ☆*: .｡. o(≧▽≦)o .｡.:*☆

🦇hi everyone...im posting this to help you manifest, shift etc! So allow me to explain. If you want to shift or manifest...you have to trust in yourself. You literally don't even have to trust if its real or not but just trust in yourself and your power. I realized this after doing something regarding lucid dreaming. I was doing the mild technique and I didn't fully believe in it but i tried anyways...and yeah I didn't lucid dream but I realized something. I simply intended and visualized before bed to wake up at 3-4am and guess what? I did. 3:30 am or something I think. Even tho I didn't lucid dream, I had a small success that made me realize I literally just needed to try and trust it.

🦴Explaining: ☆*: .｡. o(≧▽≦)o .｡.:*☆

🕸So...what exactly even is trusting? Imagine going on a roller coaster as a child and your scared....but your mom or dad holds your hand and tells you your okay. You're still scared and may have your doubts but you do it anyways and end up having a great time. Think of trust as simply trying and believing regardless of the circumstances!

🦴Trust and the "3d": ☆*: .｡. o(≧▽≦)o .｡.:*☆

🕷I dont exactly believe in the 3d. Think of the 3d as a complete illusion that you just happen to believe is real. The 3d is real, yes...but the 3d is also bullshit because YOU choose it all. You are in a reality where from birth we are programmed to think what Im saying is fake and that magic is fake...etc. But it's not! So remeber in that example about the scared kid with the roller coaster? Yeah...that fear is your "doubts". But those have zero power over you. And the care taker holding your hand? That's me and every other truthful manifestor and shifter telling you this. And you? You are the scared kid going to do this and totally rock this! You are going to trust and have faith (even if its little) and just believe. Remeber...the "3d" is just bs and a refelction of your thoughts. Oh you think this will take weeks to trust? No duh! If your thinking like that. What I want you to do is just remeber that the "3d" is JUST a reflection of your thoughts. And it is real but all you need to do is shift your awareness to that reality where you have blah blah or shift your awareness to your dr. Also if you didn't know...shifting and manifesting are the same thing but manifesting is like a "sub genre:" of shifting. I'll explain that in another post.

🦇Method: ☆*: .｡. o(≧▽≦)o .｡.:*☆

🕷This is a simple method I'm making up on the spot which will be similar to the intetion method. You can use this for manifesting And shifting. It's a few steps really 🦴STEP 1: Have desire 🦴STEP 2: The moment you think it you truly do have it. And if your like "you don't see it" no offence but you might as well start over cause that's how you "fail" hun. I dont care what the hell you see according to that dck "3d" THE FACT YOUR IMAGINING IT MEANS YOUR DESIRE IS THERE AND DONE. Trust in that. I dont care if it takes an entire year, the "3d" is forced to follow your desires if you persist and trust you really have it. It IS guaranteed but only if you make it guaranteed

☆*: .｡. o(≧▽≦)o .｡.:*☆:

Ps...you can manifest and shift to whatever. You may have limits in this specific reality like you can't fly...but shift your awareness to a reality where you CAN fly. Everything you can an can't comprehend exists already through an infinite amount of realities. Manifesting is the same as shifting and is as easy as you make it. So yes you could manifest a unicorn if you want. Or if you want a long dck you can manifest it...you can manifest your ariana grande for gods sakeᶻ 𝗓 𐰁 .ᐟ

xoxo, seifarria signed out♥♥

Edit: tbh...idk what I was yappin about here. Uhm...forget I made this unless it was actually useful to you but take this with a grain of salt. I had something here but I was wording it all weird. This is totally going into the gutters of my tumblr acc

[gorepill]

DANNY So I know you ship Polly with Curly and Jimmy but what is her relationships towards everyone else? Good, bad, meh?

!!! FUCK YES BRO IT'S YAPPIN TIME !!!

FIRST OFF ANYA; I like to think they're awesome friends tbh :) Polly really can't help but wanna take care of her, mainly just cause Anya is a couple years older than her daughter, so she's like "Augh...so young. My daughter would like you I think, do you wanna meet my daughter when we get back???" NOT THAT SHE INFANTALIZES ANYA OR ANYTHING, god now, after the shit her husband did when he was alive, no way she's gonna treat Anya like a poor lil baby. Pissed her off when it happened to her, but she is gonna do whatever she can to help and comfort her. *WHATEVER* it takes !!! "Just lemme know if y' want me t' break that freaks nose...! Really, I don't mind." BUT UNRELATED TO THAT CAUSE ANYA IS A DARLING THAT'S WAY MORE THAN HER TRAUMA OK. I do like to think they have sleepovers in each others sleeping quarters. I love thinking abt Polly doing Anya's nails, and giving that poor girl a well earned back massage cause FUCK OFF she needs it so bad. MAYBE would tell her abt her dead-husband as a "my 18-20 year old ass got thru that, and darlin' we can get you thru this." kinda way --- SWANSEA AND DAISUKE. Do not seperate those two. But I do like to think all 3 of them get sillay with it. I do like to think Polly and Daisuke convince Swansea to hillybilly hotwire like. a dvd player to the longue screen so they can all watch a movie occasionally- (movie monday in me head.... Polly wants to watch Despicable Me. Daisuke nods in agreement. Swansea complies...SAD; but don't worry, he can pick the movie right after!!) I like to think in an au where they survive and get back to earth, they'll all occasionally head out to a bar to have a drink. Swans pays cause, while he can handle his alcohol, Polly and Daisuke get two drinks in at most before they can't even see straight anymore. I also do like the idea of all three of them, but esp Swans and Polly, dancing cause it makes me happy :) joyous yayaya. Tho Swans does NOT like when Polly goes out of her way to sneak Daisuke an extra sweetner packet. ( "nahhh, let kid have a lil sweetner shit in 'is coffee! Let's be real Swans, I think he'd die if he drank it how we do...!"

----- OF COURSE WE'VE GOT CURLY CURLY CURLS. Smiles <3 lemme tell you I'm so normal about this man... Can not be overstated how mutual the feelings are. But also how Pllly is def the most active one there. Not ina "DO MORE NOW" why, but in the "I gotta go, gotta bring Cap'n a drink, poor man's prolly dehydrated." "Gotta go mop th' cock pit...haha whaaaat, boss man you're in here?? Ain't that craaaazy; hey can i sit there-" and plops right down in his lap. COUGAR'S ON THE REBOUND FROM HER PREVIOUS MARRIAGE and god damn she could not be more lovey about it. Would not tell him bout ex-husband past "Yeah... he existed!" Post Crash Curly, she's convinced (due to the stress fucking up her ability to think) that he did it though. Not sure why. She'll go into medbay when Anya's not there (bathroom break, perahps,_ and just stand over him. She'll either be holding an open bottle of mouthwash over him, contemplating pouring it all over his face to hurt him, or she'll be on her knees next to his cok,crying, cause why would he do that???? Why would he try to take them all out??? why the fuck does she still love him? She doesn't want to. She doesn't know the facts. ---- Jimmy.... oh jesus christ. She wants to snap his neck on some level, she wants him to be a better person on the other level, and on all levels he reminds her of her dead ass husband. Which makes the "hate him" and "want him to be better" levels even more extreme. She can get along well enough with him though. put on that professional coworker get along facade, and it's fine. Have a cig together in the bathrooms before she cleans the smoke smell out. Chit chat. both like "Shake That" by Eminem. I do like the idea that because she's actively nice to him, outwardly, in a way where she's not doing it to fawn, he straight up thinks she desires him carnally. And maybe some part of her, deep deep down, post-crash does. Not a part of her that will ever arise, though. "God you remind me of my ex-husband in the way I think you'd shoot me. But god, sugar, honey, Slimjim, I wish you'd do the last thing he did and BLOW YOUR FUCKIN' BRAINS OUT AND LEMME WATCH-" ----- COFFEE MACHINE She's on her knees, drinking straight from that dispenser, gluging that shit down and moanin on that shit.

[insufferablemod]

your art style is so fucking sick i love the way your shapes are defined,,, is your hand still injured? because honestly the brand is fucking impeccable either way. the shakiness really gives it emotion and almost like. god. its just so... i want to study it so bad.

do you have anything in specific that really inspired the way you developed your shapes and the rest of it?? i keep saying shapes and its mad vague but i hope you know what i mean

like how you decide what lines should go where to define what, i guess.

enuff yappin tho. point is. ur shit is HYPE.

aaa thank youuuuu :')c <3 hand is sadly still injured 😎💀 have started drawing a bit with it tho! just gotta be careful with it(<-was not careful with it)

And agdhd dont worry, shape is actually the perfect word to describe it! So the way I approach things is well, shapes lol Literally, I try if I can to stick in as many solid shapes as I can They help keep things clean n uncluttered(which I am trying 2 get better at) and can help make things feel more solid I try and break down what I'm drawing into the most basic 3d shapes I can in my head without going 2 abstract or cartoony And then it's just kinda tracing those shapes in ur mind down 2 the page? I think this also helps with getting more like, volume/depth in, since basic shapes r easier to imagine in 3d then like, actual real life human anatomy i like to think of it kinda like sculpting, you start with simple big shapes and then slowly chip away n add more detail where necessary Asaro heads r a great recourse for this kinda stuff n theres some good ones u can just find online! actually, here are 2 link link (i actually gotta try n use these more,, u_u(oh shit just googled n theres actually also asaros bodies, i gotta check those out 2 lol)) Then it's just finding a good balance of curved and straight shapes, the ratio of which can change a lot depending on the vibe ur going for or character ur drawing

scribbled over some of my art 2 try n show what i mean better lol

sorry for the late response! hope any of that made sense!

[silvertsundere]

Silver Talks AniManga (17/11/24)

Had a lot more to say this week than I ever expected damn Also glad that I could watch the BB ep this week instead of having to wait til next one like the last one

Green - New series/New to me

Anime

Dandadan Ep7

Man, the sequence leading up to this was brutal to say the least. I really don't remember it being this bad on the manga so I guess they expanded on it a lot. Been a while since I've felt my gut wrench like good lord.. The direction for the ep was great tho, that whole thing only having like 3 lines of dialogue overall and the silky's groans really elevated how dire it was and the whole episode was filled with a ton of great shots My buddy mega said there was "some fantastic sakuga before the op" so I had my hopes up to something like the can can scene from a few episodes ago but it wasn't nearly as good (it still was great tho, don't get it twisted)

The Idolmaster Shiny Colours S2 Ep7

That was a good episode. I was looking forward to it from the start when it was clear it was going to focus on Sakuya and they really delivered. All throughout S1 and some of S2, Sakuya has always been portrayed as this paragon, a shining example of an idol, this goal that all the other girls aspired, and looked up to, even outside of the L'Antica members. But every other ep this season they'd drop little hints that she had something going on, which was great cause it made it so this ep didn't feel like it came outta nowhere. As rough as it was, since she's one of my favourites, it was great to see her mask build up more and more through the ep as she tried to convince everyone else, but especially herself, that everything was fine, until it got completely shattered in that final scene. It's always good when they show that the seemingly "perfect" character actually has issues and flaws and seeing how they deal with them. Funnily enough I went through something earlier today with Gakuen's Sena's MV that was released earlier today, but that's not related to this so I won't say anything else Anyway, to finish up, I thought it was interesting that they showed her dad. I was wondering if they were build up to the lore reveal that her parents died when she was young and have that relate to and explain her actions in the episode but they didn't. Those scenes still served that purpose, but it still would've been nice to see how that affected her (sorry Sakuya) I'll stop yappin now but since I don't know if I'll talk about this again, until the finale, I just wanted to mention that I hope noctchill gets some more screentime cause it feels like they haven't gotten that much (not even being biased cause of Madoka)

Manga

Syd Craft: Love Is a Mystery Ch1

It's good to have a familiar face like Taishi back, in case you don't know they did Bokuben some years ago. Anyway, that was a great first chapter as you'd expect from a romcom veteran. People that are comparing this to Conan just because it's a "detective" series are idiots and clearly didn't read it. But yeah, fun premise having a great detective that doesn't want to be one, but just ends up in situations where he has to do it regardless. Fun characters too, I would've liked for the cop girl to get some more characterization other than "Hehe I'll beat you one day Syd" but she's the "promise girl" so I'mm sure she'll get some stuff. We also got the "guy that's secretly a girl" trope which I haven't seen in a long time so that's fun too. Syd is desperate to have some romance in his life like his beloved books, but little does he know he'll find himself as part of a love triangle. I'll be looking forward to this in the comings weeks

With Hakutaku most likely getting axed and UU possibly ending in Jan or Feb, with Yozakura closely after, combined with the fact that this is a series from a veteran author, I'm hoping that it'll stick around for a decent amount of time. It's hard to tell tho because we also have Hima-ten, which is also a romcom, doing pretty decent in the ratings (middle of the mag) and Blue Box which also has romance elements along with the sports, but I believe in Taishi 🙏

[arinemone]

things I would do if I decided to go Full Ham and do a Dawntrail Rewrite fic for Aresiba (under cut bc it long. bc of me yappin):

Fuck this CS3 time bubble bullshit, The Hydaelyn saga takes 4 years, and post ew is maybe a couple of months? Haven't decided yet (But basically, Aresiba starts her journey when she's 23, and in Dawntrail she's 27ish)

Koana goes to Sharlyan for the same time Aresiba's gone, so 4 years instead of 3. He's her ride to sharlyan, and then from there she goes 2 limsa and then gridania, so like. they gotta leave at the same time

I'm sorry. i. love the twins so very much. but they add VERY LITTLE TO THE RITES RACE IMHO, SO I'm having them come in for the coronation. so that they're here for the Dome Nonsense. and I'm having Yahima/her current student (a hunter and lowkey protoge healer?? kids cracked) in their place instead

Basically I am making this a Girls Trip, moreso than the MSQ does. and yes Erenville/this new oc are also included as Girls in the Girls trip. For the Girlies and Erenvielle/new oc yk

But also I think the bonding moments/banter that Yahima/Wuk Lamat/Aresiba have would be alot. better to fill the dead air than what some of the scions companions give us tbh. There's still this level fish out of water/across the salt type beat tho, bc Outer Islanders (aka yahima and aresiba in our group) are Allies of tural, yes, but not PART of tural, so they're still seen as from beyond the salt. It irks Aresiba tho, bc she's spent a good portion of her life living/training in Tuliyollal/Tural, so she very much considers it like another home to her. Also I think krile and Yahima would make good friends so I want her to be there. also also WHY WOULD WE NOT BRING THE OTHER TRAINED VIDRAAL HUNTWRS TO /THE/ VIDRAAL FIGHT like it would even make sense. then. I want them there 🫵

I'd also probably add some time in places that feel like. happen fast. and overall have a more concrete time frame of when things happen.

Like I'd put at LEAST A DAY inbetween the group arriving to Tural, and the day the rites begin. The Rites maybe take like 2 weeksish. possibly a little less depending. I'd add a couple of downtime days to a week inbetween the final rite/finding the golden city and coronation day. The shaolaani trip maybe takes a handful of days, maybe a buisness week? The Dome Explorarion takes a few days, and ofc Living Memory less than a day. I'll keep the 3 day celebrations bc that's fun, then immediately after Aresiba goes on a full 7 day week No-contact vacation to see her family. and then that Final CS of her, Erenvielle and Wuk lamat takes place the day of her return to tuliyollal. probably a few hours since her arrival. After that it's all me time baeby YIPPIEEEEEE

Siba has her own subplot "Hero returns home from her heroes journey, bur both her and her home have changed", during the rites part of the expac, and how she's adjusting to it

Koana/Aresiba buildup is basically this Entire Expansion, getting together/confessing fee fees happens probably pre 7.1

i want a "Blessed Siblings" vs "The Seas Blessed" (Aresiba and Yahima) fight SOMEHWHERE before they hit the Jak tiika heartlands,/BEFORE the bkjj's redemption, so I can draw a parallel bc THERES ONE THERE I REALIZE. AND WHILE IT DOESNT AFFECT THE STORYLINE MUCH it only makes the hard scenes HURT MORE

Gulool Ja Ja and the Ca'aguey Grandmama getting drinks, catching up, and having a Parent chat abt their kids 🥺

[lilmaymayy]

hey friends! this is just a quick intro post in case you want to know a bit more about me/the blog🤭

** DISCLAIMER**

PLEASE BE KIND in this blog i will not entertain ANY hate/aggressive/mean interactions THEY WILL BE DELETED OR IGNORED, in the past where i did respond, it never left my mind and i never knew how to react, leaving me to be negatively affected by someones fleeting thoughts. so to avoid anyones displeasure please be respectful and conscious of your actions and words!! if not- 👉🚪we dont need that energy here

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*im also on mobile so apologies for any bad formatting😭😭

hello! my nicknames may and i use she/her pronouns. when sending any msgs id appreciate a quick hello but as long as your being polite i will gladly respond. feel free to address me as may or any other (kind) phrase (e.g queen/baddie?? anythings fine as long as youre being nice)

do u see the theme😘

i like to keep my age off of here simply for privacy but i can assure you i am not a minor, but if you are, you are welcome on my page any time just be aware i do swear and the content that i reblog can be nsfw, but ultimately you are responsible for the media you decide to consume.

i do not write fics(i always reblog them tho😉/also beta! so if youre a writer in need just lmk) idk if i ever will(write)but i dont realistically see that happening😭.

in the search bar for my page you can see all these hashtags, i typically tag “give it a read💋” for any fics ive betad and “she speaks🗣️” for any post thats just me yappin💀

and any character names (like finnick odair, peter parker etc.) are the bulk of fics that i reblog and you can find works for that character under those tags!

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im a full time student based in sunny california😍, my favorite things have to be fruits(tops gotta be strawberrys, cherrys anddd green grapes), fics, and folklore (3 fav f’s💋) (and yes i am a swiftie). last time i took the personality test i got ISTJ, but i swearr im still an infp. every single test i took told me i was a hufflepuff (were not lame i swear), and even though i swear up n down that im a laurie.. i might be an amy😔( i want to be great or nothing😫) and a song that i just feel for is probably a three way tie between teenage dream by olivia rodrigo, this is me trying by taylor swift and dreamer by laufey(not someone i typically listen to but whenever spotify puts her song i always love it)

favorite artistss gotta be the big three taylor, lana and ariana (nothing offish theyre just my most listened) and drake.. and bad bunny.. and olivia.. and sza.. and beyonce.. and the weekend.. and rihanna

- if you want a grasp of my music this is a LINK to my most played playlist

- this is a LINK to my more lovey/ sweet songs, its all in the description💋

*if u give em a listen and u wanna put me on.. msg me!! id love to hear your recs

my hobbies include playing music, i play guitar(kinda goodish) and i wanted to pick up piano too (idk if ill ever get to this😭) i also found that i love to do puzzles, and i wanted to start scrapbooking (looks fun af lowk). a few other things i love is definitely just jamming out to my tunes, sleeping😫😫, watching movies, playing w legos😭, PLAYING WITH MY DOGGIESSS (i have two, rocky and lily both are maltese poodles💋💋), baking (hate the clean up tho) i also love selfcare, its always good to prioritize urself but i mean the cassie method of everything showers, lotions, body oils, body mists/ perfumes, face masks, skin care (allllllll the goodies) just to finish the day off with a fic (its deadass my nightly routine to shower, get ready for bed/unwind, tumblr)

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now onto.. CELEBRITY CRUSHES!!

-CELEBRITY not character, but if i missed any lmk😝

-this is a long one so bearrrrr with me

my top 5 currently is🥁🥁🥁

1. sam claflin (been obsessed, still obsessed, i dont see this changing *unless timothee wanna quit playin🙄)

2. tom blyth (tbosbas was life changing.. hes so💋💋)

3. andrew garfield (im considering moving my man up to 2 bc hes an og for this list likee hes been on my brain since he was fan casted as our remus lupin and will stay there😌)

4. jacob elordi (newest addition, saltburn edits is the sole reason why hes here plus hes so fucking tall like i deserve that height difference *for reference im 5 ft😈)

5. timothee chalamet (i love him so much BUT HES DOWN HERE BC OF KYLIE😭*he would be 1 otherwise🥲)

for other hotties ..

OSCAR ISAAC🥵🥵😫-i need this man in bed rn

charlie brushnell😘-new addition but again he is taking over just like pjo is

tom holland- zenny baby he is all yours but that man shirtless? YUMMYYY

tom hiddleston- only rzn to watch the thor series

theo james - YOU THE ONE FOUR ME hes so fine i watched divergent (still a great series) for him n i was not dissapointed

aaron t— johnson- i do not want to mention his 🤐 but he is so fine his calvin klein ads?? KICKASS??

ben barnes- shadow n bone.. YUMMY YUMMY🤭🤭also sirius? likeee runaway to my house?

cillian murphy- ik he lowk looks like he got a bad case of botox.. BUT CMONNN PEAKY BLINDERS???

callum turner- i knew i was hooked since that harry potter movie he has like 10 minutes in🥰🥰

dylan o’brien-ima be honest im not DIE HARD in love but this man was fine since maze runner and teen wolf n will be till hes in the graveee

henry cavill- enola mf holmes.. INTRODUCE ME TO YOUR BROTOHER LIKE😍😍😍 i need this man to investigate all my internal organs

hugh laughton scott- hes just so pretty i just😘

harrison dickinson- love at first sight of darkest minds😍😍( its a discontinued movie (supposed to be) series) i need him in more shit

joao felix- my bestie pmo fifa AND HE DOES NOT DISSAPOINTT

josh hutcherson- i could not make this list without pookie

matthew gray gubler- i need him to read me to sleep, sing me to sleep, talk about anything so i can sleep, he brings me so much joy with that smile and hes so sweetie pie i could go on forever

robert pattinson- TEAM EDWARD FOR LIFEEEEEEEE

drew starkey?- idk his name but hes the hottie who plays rafe cameron IVE NEVER WATCHED THE SHOW (or anything hes in) but holy shit that man is tall and pulls off ANY hair cut

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well if youve made it this far thank you for taking the time to read this! if you want to know some more about me msg me in any way and ill respond, maybe ill add that info here. thanks again for your attention! love you all😘

[rexlroze]

I FINALLY FUCKING READ IT‼️ WOO and we have a lot to talk about:3

⚠️ spoilers:P

The starting really caught me off guard, like "0.0, Pardon...?" I felt like Katy just threw me in front of on-coming traffic😔 Nothing could've prepared for me that😵‍💫

The times R has straight up just sacrificed herself for the crew to see them free and happy. — The crew doesn't include Hobie, yk why? cuz that mf will be DEPRESSED after he loses her. And he won't be free cuz he'll be trapped by the invisible bars of — you got it! Revenge! :3 And I'm not saying that the crew gonna be thrilled about escaping without R, no they're gonna be in the zone for a WHILE. I hope you get my point 🥲

I can imagine Hobie just hearing R's screams etc and now he just wants to claw his way out of the cell and help her.

Dude, Hobie not getting up to see R instead just scanning him from the corner hurt me so goddamn much. Cuz i know that motherfucker feels so damn guilty that he feels like he doesn't deserve to see R or ask if she's even okay because HE was the one who hurt her even tho it was just by accident and I- that's gonna eat me fucking ALIVE.

Okay... that line where R said "We'll meet again, in this life or the next." I was NOT crying before I read that but that shit hit me like a goddamn BUS. I've never changed emotions quicker in my goddamn life. THAT HURTT. Also, it reminded me of The Fall so that's that😭

Heyy, I was right, it was Jessica:3

The way Jess and R just start talking like they met each other yesterday over coffee and nothing was wrong when they haven't seen eachother in ages. It shows that they're really comfortable with one another ngl:D

You sure we still talking about shoes here, love?

Okay, the "Eddie, my boy!" line reminded me of that one meme; "That's my boy." 💀😭

As soon as I read that "And Hobie, Hobie would hate you." I LITERALLY SLID OFF THE FUCKING BED ONTO THE DAMN FLOOR. LIKE DAMN MAN.

This was literally me (Istg, I'm being so honest rn😭):

“”” — tiny mini li'l mistake, lovie.

Hobie's following us, isn't he? Like 3 times, bestie? Either you're more delusional than I am or... yeah.

Yippee, that's it for my yappin', AWESOME JOB AT WRITING THIS ONE, LOVE‼️ Rlly hope I can show you much I appreciate you by all my yappin'🥲 cuz the whole thing was just..

Can't wait for Chapter 13 since THAT'S supposedly gonna be my new favorite chapter. (Istg if you say, "WAIT! sorry I actually meant 14", I'm making you a shrimp cake.)

Like Ships that Pass in the Night

Pairing: Pirate! Hobie Brown x Fem! Reader

Word count: 10.4k

Tags: Use of Y/N sparsely, no specific physical description of the reader (except for her clothing), CW food mentions, TW violence, TW blood, CW death.

Between the Devil and the Sea Masterlist

Navigation

CHAPTER 12 >>> CHAPTER 13

You can't believe it, cannot process what just happened mere moments ago or that's what you feel like. In truth, it's been a week, a long agonizing week of scratching at your door, biting the restraints and screaming their names.

A few days ago you were sitting down on a crate with Hobie's gentle hold atop your shoulder. You remember how he gave you a reassuring smile as Miguel sits down in front of you. His large form makes the wood creak when he shifts his weight, eyes boring into you like he's trying to find something amiss with your face. Or just simply trying to recognize it.

After a brief introduction of his ‘I'm your godfather’ schtick, he takes out your necklace, still shiny and gold. It swings in his hand as he hands it to Hobie, he never let you near Miguel as he promised. You just wish Miguel kept his word.

So much for the word of a gentleman.

You still remember how Hobie looks at the pendant, all wide eyes and full of recognition. If you had the time you would've asked him. But it's too late now.

His warm hands help you put on the necklace as Miguel watches like a hawk. Eyes never leaving yours. You can still feel how clammy Hobie's hands were, how it quivered atop your clavicle.

With the soft click of the necklace locking into place, and with it feeling foreign on your skin, Miguel strung together his words– “duchess” “killed at sea” “a navy captain father” “a kind midwife saving and taking you in” And “pirates.” Those words didn't make much sense back then as you stared at him in disbelief.

You feel Hobie's gentle squeeze on your skin, it still lingers right there, where the rope is currently burning while you try to wiggle out of it.

You should've stayed on your island.

The names 'Hazelside' and 'Peregrine' stood out in your foggy thoughts. You've heard them a few times in your life. Through newspapers, pamphlets and books dating centuries back.

You've heard of them but they haven't heard of you.

Crying out his name, you knock your shoulder harshly and desperately on the hard door.

Tears streaming down your face, Miguel takes a piece of paper, showing it to you, a simple white letter in a familiar handwriting you haven't seen in years.

Then the dam breaks.

All you could really remember after the short conversation was when they both lunged at each other. Teeth bared, claws out, knuckles hitting flesh. You can't even recall what made them tick, what made them so angry at each other that they both drew blood.

Not theirs, yours.

Crimson seeps from your leg and nose. You took a bullet for Miguel accidentally when Hobie fired his gun at him. Too angry, too eager to protect you, he didn't notice you trying to mitigate the situation with you squeezing yourself in between them. Too fast, too quick for him to react. Miguel tried to punch Hobie in retaliation, but it was at the exact same time you keeled over in pain. He hits his fist right on your face and you go blind for a second.

The scream you let out broke both men's hearts.

Their contorted faces of anguish and guilt are still plastered in your foggy mind.

As both men rush over to you, Miguel's crew bust the doors open, taking Hobie by the arms, dragging him away from you. He kicks and screams to let you go, grey eyes almost black, nails scratching angry marks on the strangers’ arms. And as you lay bleeding on the floor, the dead fish smell entering your broken nose, you still try to reach after him, hoping it's enough to tell him that you forgave him. You fall unconscious with Miguel's large hands squeezing tightly around your wound, voice barking orders at his men.

And all you can think about is them, the crew and Hobie.

With desperation like a cornered animal, you gnaw at your bonds. The hemp sticks to your teeth, not enough to cut it, the taste making you gag. The tight bandage around your leg aches, throbbing pain making you groan. Your nose has stopped bleeding, now you feel the swelling, like you have a cold.

The ship rocks softly, waves crashing on the sides of the large ship. With tearful and red eyes, you roam them around the small room. You have a brief vision of your cabin back at the revenge, back when you didn't know anything about your family's legacy. All you knew is that you needed to find them, even if they aren't real, even if they didn't want you. And now that you know all the answers to those things, you can't stop crying, not of happiness. There's no relief, only dread. If Miguel, your godfather is willing to tie you up and send your friends to the gallows then you're terrified of what you'll find when you reach the shores of the capital.

A rhythmic knock echoes out into the quiet. You stand up with great effort to greet the so-called gentleman. Miguel stands before you, shoulders slouched, hazel eyes staring at you with remorse. And you stare back with your reddening eyes, eyebrows knitted together in anger. He has kept you here for days, feeding you three meals a day. You ask about them and he just answers two words every time you do– “they're alright,” he says, and you think– “for now.”

“How are they?” You ask, voice hoarse.

“They're alright.” He says, gesturing for you to sit down, with reluctance, you don't obey. Dragging the small chair in front of you, giving you enough space. He sits on it, the eyebags under his eyes and gaunt face makes you think about them, and whether they look as tired as him.

“Will you untie me now?”

“You won't kick me again?” You get the flashback of kicking him hard on his chest the first time you woke up in the cabin.

“No.” You lie.

“Then no.” He closed his eyes tightly, like there's a migraine just behind his eyes. “I'm trying really hard here, Y/N— just…why don't you believe me?”

“Because you imprisoned my friends, because you tied me up and locked me in—”

“You were attacking people—”

“Because you attacked my friends!” You hope your scream can be heard below deck so they know that you're still fighting.

“He attacked me first—”

“Bullshit.”

“You had a concussion, you wouldn't have remembered it.”

“Oh I wonder why?” There's vile venom in your words.

Miguel swallows thickly. “If I untie you now, will you listen to me?”

“Perhaps.” Your scowl deepens.

“Christ, you're so much like your father.” Your jaw clenches at his words. “I'm gonna untie you, promise me you won't kick back?”

“No promises.”

“I'm gonna regret this.” He says under his breath, getting up, he swiftly and carefully unties you. The heavy rope falls on the ground and you clench your fists.

Miguel backs away, hands up in surrender. “There, can you please sit down?”

“No.”

“Alright, I'll sit down then.” With a groan and creak, he talks once again. Your nerves bubble up. “I've sent words to Jessica, she's coming to the capital to greet you and tell you the truth.”

“What makes you think I'll believe her?”

“Because she's your mother. And she sent you a letter.” There's a pang in your heart when you see her familiar handwriting on the paper once again. He hands it to you, snatching it away, you don't even read the letter. “Please, I'm telling the truth—”

“If I come with you without a fight will you let them go?” Your sudden words surprises him.

“They're wanted criminals, Y/N.” You give him the staredown of the century. He sighs. “The most I can do is keep them out of the gallows. After that they'll go to prison.”

“Where they will rot? No, you have to promise me you'll let them go, completely. Or I'll kick and scream and bite until you bleed.” You shake from sheer anger. “If you loved my so-called family then the least you could do is honour their daughter’s wishes.”

The tension hangs in the air. And you wish you had your dagger to cut it, and him.

“I don't beg, Miguel. I will do that and more just to get back to them, that I can promise you.” You say through your bared teeth.

He nods, “I'll see what I can do–”

“No, you'll do it or you won't have a little duchess to bring home.” You inhale sharply. “Then you've failed them.”

With a nod, he agrees, turning his back to you. Before you could lunge at him, he swivels back. “Do you want to talk to them?” For a moment you thought he's talking about your parents. “Prove to you that I mean well. That I'm telling the truth.”

You look at him with confusion. Giving in means giving up, but you can't resist the temptation of seeing them well. “Yes.”

—

You walk further down the steps. Shadows dance along the wooden walls, the ship rocks and creaks, the only sound you can hear. Miguel guides you, an oil lamp in his hand while his right hand woman, Lyla, walks behind you.

Your wrists aren't bound but you feel like it is when your hand grips the letter tightly. Not restricting you is his way of proving himself, which you hope he'll soon regret.

As the three of you arrive at the doors, two men guard it, rifles strapped to their back, knives on their waists. They nod to Miguel, sparing you a curious glance on your way inside.

In the large room there sits a large cell, steel enclosing around the people you most care about.

Miguel steps back, “Five minutes.” The crew scrambles towards you once their eyes land towards your stiff form, their hands gripping the metal, voices softly calling your name.

Hobie doesn't do the same, he stays in the corner, watching you, skimming his eyes over to your injury.

“Ten,” you say, eyes never leaving their forms, fingers inching closer towards the set of keys on his waist. You face him and Lyla, making their attention turn to you. “Ten or I won't cooperate.”

“Feisty.” Lyla says, hands on her hips, your reflection bouncing off her glasses.

Miguel just stares at you, observing your face. You take the opportunity to stand toe to toe with him, neck craning up to glare at said man.

“Ten.” You stubbornly utter.

He sighs, relenting. “Fine, ten, no more, no less.” as he turns away, you hide your hand behind you.

When the door shuts behind the two, you run towards them, limping and still aching, but you still sprint.

Finally reaching them, you kneel, relief washes over them as they hold your hands through the bars.

“Fuck! Thank fuck!” Yuri grips your arm, exhaustion on her face.

Gwen holds your shoulder, balling her fist on your shirt. “You alright?” she asks while Pav and Miles take turns in hugging you even with the metal bars preventing them.

“I'm alright,” you wait for Hobie to move towards you but he just watches. Looking at him, he senses your eyes, you repeat your words to reassure him. “I'm alright.”

When you lock eyes with him you get reminded of the same man who told you about his pain. You feel tears brimming in your eyes again.

“I thought they were torturing you up there.” Gwen's voice is as hoarse as yours.

“We heard the screams, Y/N,” Miles stares at your bandaged leg. “Did they hurt you?”

“I'm fine, just aching is all.” You answer, trying to act brave.

“When we get out of this cage I'm gonna kick O'Hara’s ass.” James kicks the nearest metal bar.

“He's been at it for days, trying to break it.” Pav leans his head on the cold steel. “I'm glad you're fine, Y/N. I don't think we can handle another one.” Another death.

“We've been kicked in the balls, set on fire and dumped in the sea to put it bluntly.” Yuri sighs. “We can't catch a bloody break eh, wifey? So much for our honeymoon.” she jokes, earning the first smile you've made since setting foot on the ship.

Gwen gives everyone a look, they move away from the bars, giving you two some privacy. She scooches closer to you.

“Can you talk to him? Hobie's been fighting the guards since we got here, he'd yell at them relentlessly. He's worse whenever you scream, his knuckles are raw from punching the bars. We're all worried about him. This is the first time he's been this quiet since—.” There's fatigue under her blue eyes, you feel guilty. “And you know Hobie, his silence is so much scarier than when he yells.”

You nod, eyes avoiding said man in the corner. “Just promise me you'll sleep.”

“Do I look that bad?” Gwen jokes, “I think I've never looked this great in years. Even Miles thinks so.”

“Miles always thinks you're gorgeous. Even if you wear a jester costume I think he'd fall all over you.”

“Duly noted.” She cracks a small smile.

“I’m really sorry about this.” Your voice trembles. “For bringing you all into this. I'm stupid for even thinking the plan would work.”

“Hey,” she holds your hands that's wrapped around the iron bars. “We all agreed to it, we knew what would happen if it failed and yet we chose to do this. Honestly, this is probably the best case scenario, we all lived so there's that.” Patting your bicep, she whispers. “Give me the key you nicked and we'll call it even.”

You almost laughed. “You're good,” Looking behind you to check if there's no wandering eyes, you slyly hand it to her through the cell. Gwen takes it swiftly before anyone notices. “Get out of here before we dock. There's a chance during dinner where there's no one on the deck. I don't hear any footsteps up there so I can guarantee that you have a five minute window after the dinner bell rings and before they change shifts.”

Gwen nods proudly. “And there's a dinghy that's improperly tied to the ship. Perfect, you're a proper pirate now, Y/N.” squeezing your hand, Gwen looks like she has something to say but she stops herself. “Thank you.”

“Get everyone out, please. And tell them I'm sorry.”

“I will.” And with her parting words she walks away, sitting next to Miles, whispering plans.

After a second and a deep breath, you stand up shakily, using the steel as leverage. Hobie thinks you'd begin to leave the room, but you sit down as close as you can to his side of the cell.

“Hobie.” You call his name like you haven't been screaming it for the past week. Like you don't long for him. “Can you please come here?” He doesn't look your way even though it physically pains him to do so. “Or I'll spill all your secrets you told me back at the island.” You wouldn't but you had to try.

He stands up, face unreadable, trudging the floors to cross the small distance. Crouching down, you can see the split skin on his knuckles. Angry circular blisters, gashes that still drip blood from not granting himself time to heal. So you gingerly take his hands, wishing that with your mere touch alone could heal him.

His eyes are tightly closed, hands limp in your hold. “I shot you.” You can barely recognize his voice at how broken and rough it is.

“Accidentally, I barely feel it anymore.”

“You're limping because of me.” His tone broken, shoulders slumped.

“It'll heal. I will heal.” You swallow thickly. “Please open your eyes and look at me. I forgive you, you didn't mean it.” He could kill you and you'll still forgive him.

With trepidation, he opens his eyes, lifting his head to look at you. “Did he break your nose?”

“Yes, the surgeon set it back though. I kicked Miguel after, just so you know. Like a fucking horse.”

He chuckles, “That's my girl.” His comment sends your heart alight.

“Are they feeding you all?” You change the subject or you'll burst from what he said. “Giving you water?”

“Treated like royalty, love. Even got our own blankets. I have to give it to O’Hara, he knows how to treat prisoners right.”

“I got him to let you go but I still don't trust him.”

Hobie's eyes go wide. “He wouldn't agree to that, what did you do to make him?” He scooches closer to you despite the metal separation.

You give him an apologetic look, “Nothing, I just convinced him.”

“Don't bullshit me, Y/N. What did you promise him?” He doesn't raise his voice, but you can see the whirlpool in his grey eyes.

“That he can take me home without fussing. That's all.”

“It's not just ‘that’s all,’ love. It's him taking you where we can't follow. I promised you back on that bloody boat and I intend to fuckin' keep it.”

“The letter's real, Hobie. I'm fucking nobility for some fucked up reason.”

“What if it's forged? Or he made your mother write it?”

“I know her hand, and nobody can force her to do anything. I may not know Miguel but I know Jess. He's telling the truth.”

“You haven't even read the letter. How would you know?” You forgot that he knows you more than you know yourself.

“Christ, sometimes I forget that you're quite perceptive.” You feel his stern yet familiar eyes on you as you look at your still intertwined hands. “Can you do me a favour and read it for me?” Lifting up your gaze, Hobie looks at you like he did on that fishing boat– all grief and love. But you suppose they're the same.

“Why?” Why do you trust me enough to read it for you? He thinks.

“Because I trust you.” Because I want you to see it and tell me it's all fake so we can make our escape together. Because I love you and that's all I can do to show how much I do.

You thought all of it but you don't say it outloud lest he won't be able to let you go in the long run. And he has to, because it's better to separate than to cling to each other amidst all the things preventing you to do so. Because if he just asks you to stay just like when he did in the governor's gates, you'd say yes in a heartbeat.

“I almost lost it when I saw my name written in her hand, I don't think I can survive seeing the rest.” Slipping the paper between the bars, he looks at you for permission. With a nod, he opens the wax seal with trepidation.

You watch as his eyes read the page, and you wait with clenched fists.

“She says she's sorry.” Hobie can't lie to your face. “And that Miguel's tellin' the truth. That he's been looking for you ever since you went missin’ even after everyone told him that you were already dead.” A tear slips down your cheek. “He was close to your parents, a duchess and a navy captain.” He paused to wipe the tears flowing. “She wrote ‘This is my way of giving you a better life, a better chance. So please stop running, my little tomato.’”

You chuckle at the childhood nickname, it quickly changes into a sob. Hobie wraps his arms around your torso as best as he can. Large hand splayed atop your head, lips softly pressing on your temple.

“It's real, innit?”

“It's real.”

“Little tomato?” He asks, rubbing soft circles on your shoulder blades.

“My favourite were cherry tomatoes.” You sniff, hands enclosed on his sides, gripping his shirt.

“I'll keep that in mind.” Hobie whispers, “I know a recipe with it.”

The thought sounds so far away for you, a dream where everything is better, where nothing bad happens.

“Cook it for me?” You lean away to his dismay.

“I bet you have servants for that.”

“I don't want them, just you.” He nods, an arrow piercing his heart the moment you said those words. “We'll meet again, in this life or the next.”

He shakes his head as the door creaks open. “No, Y/N—”

Taking his hands quickly, you kiss his broken skin, hoping it's enough for a goodbye. “Don't follow me, please.” He could only stare at you with a horrified expression.

“Time to go, Y/N.” Miguel's voice cuts through the space.

Grinning at Hobie, you let him memorize the sight. “Be safe, all of you.” Miguel helps you stand up. Etching their faces into your mind, locking it away, you leave the letter to Hobie and the key to their freedom.

—

Walking up to the deck, the cloudy sky greets you, puffs of smoke belching out of houses makes your broken nose sting. The horses running along cobbled stones and intense yelling from sailors rings in your ears. But you're relieved knowing they're not locked in a cell anymore.

After hearing the alarm bells last night, the splash of the dinghy falling into the waters and Miguel cursing Hobie's name, you know they got out. You're glad that they didn't turn heel and tried to bring you with them, grateful that Gwen convinced him to let you go. Yet, why is there a pang in your chest whenever you think about it?

You hear Miguel call your name, hand reaching out to help you walk down the stairs of the ship. A carriage waits for you at the end. Two thoroughbred horses strapped to it, footmen opening the door, side eyeing your disheveled form. You forgot that you're still wearing the same clothes you wore on your last day on the people's revenge. You must smell heavenly, you thought.

Miguel's men have their weapons at the ready, everyone at the docks scratches their heads at why someone like you is heavily protected.

On wobbly feet, you make your way down without taking Miguel's help.

And as you lift one foot up on the carriage, you see in your peripheral a familiar man peeking out from an alley. You can recognize those eyes anywhere.

With a subtle shake of your head, you slyly mouth a ‘don’t’. Hobie hides under the shadows, and you wish you could just run after him.

With downcast eyes, you get on the carriage.

Miguel follows suit then Lyla who yawns in her seat. You jump at the door closing. As the horses start their pace, you roam your eyes at the plush interior. All smooth velvet and embroidered walls.

“Can I close the windows?” Miguel asks, fingers already curled around the curtains. You nod tiredly. The thick curtains whoosh close, and you can't help but worry about them. “We're gonna take a detour before we meet your uncle and aunt.”

Your head perks up at the words. “What?”

“She had a concussion, Miguel, she forgot.” Lyla states a fact next to you, voice flat and disinterested. “Punched her too hard, you big man.” She whispers.

“They're your distant relatives. The ones who inherited the estate after—after everything. They'll be the one taking you in.”

“Are they the ones who asked for me to be found?”

“No, it was just me.” He says forlornly.

“Do they know I'm alive?”

“I've sent word to them. They'd be there to greet you.”

“Are they kind?” There's crescent shapes on your palms again.

“I'm sure they'd be glad to have you.” He tries to smile but fails to make you feel better.

“That's not what I asked, Miguel.” You say with a glare.

“They're a bit…. eccentric but nothing bad, I'm sure.” He rolls his tensed shoulders. “I've only met them once during the will reading.”

“What did they leave you?” You ask, the carriage hits a bump on the road, rattling the three of you inside.

“Nothing too important.”

“Come on, at least tell me something about them.” You insist while Lyla actual listens in.

“Kind, they were kind.” You feel your heart in your throat. “We've known eachother since we were children. Your father and I came from a smaller noble house near your mother's land. ” Miguel shifts his weight, like talking about them is heavy on his chest. “We used to play together on this one spot of land where none of our families owned. We joked that it was ours, just for the three of us where we were all equals.” He chuckles softly. “I guess that's where your mother fell for your father. She was the only child, only heir.”

You smile, imagining the three of them playing even though you have no idea what your parents looked like. “I don't have anyone directly related to her?”

“No, sorry. Your uncle is her cousin thrice removed. His father inherited the estate first before him but it was brief, he was only the duke for a year and a half.” Miguel rubs his weary eyes. “Your father didn't have any direct relatives either. His land belongs to the crown now.”

“My father, he was in the navy?”

“A captain, we were promoted at the same time.”

“About the pirates that killed them—”

“You remember that?”

“I guess so. My mind's all cloudy but I remember bits and pieces.” You take a peek behind the closed curtains. It seems you're outside of the main city, fewer houses are sprawled on the green grass, hundreds of trees covering behind the buildings.

“I'm sorry for punching you.” Miguel leans on his knees, elbows propped up, voice gentle as he addresses you. “I truly didn't mean for any of this to happen. It wasn't in the plan.”

“What was your plan then?” You scoff. “How did you keep finding me?”

“I have enough money to bribe people, and unsurprisingly, they're all willing to talk about a girl who might've stolen from them.” His eyes are full of endearment. And you look at him with a smirk. “My only plan was to find you and get you home safe. I owe your parents that.”

“You loved them that much? To spend years trying to find a girl you've never even met?”

“Yes, because they'd do the same. Because they've done the same for me.” The carriage stops, the horses outside huff, hooves kicking on the dirt. “I have known you before I've even met you. I was the first person they ever told and they trusted me enough to make me your godfather even though you were barely the size of a peach. So yes, I would spend the rest of my life trying to find you just to bring you home, just to bring you to her home where you belong.”

“Well, do I, Miguel? Do you think I belong there?”

“In time yes. Because they did too.”

“But it doesn't mean I should too. What if I don't?” What if this isn't your place? What if you sacrificed everything with Hobie just to end up not belonging? What if this isn't what you truly wished for?

“I'd personally take you wherever you want. Whenever you want, and all you need to do is ask me and I shall obey. Just please give it some time.” He sniffs. “I'll be damned if I never tried to bring you home, they'd fucking haunt me if I didn't try.”

“I need your word, O’Hara.”

“You have my word, Y/N.”

You nod solemnly. He then knocks at the carriage door, the footman opens it in a second, laying down the steps for you.

“She's out by the willow tree.” Miguel takes his jacket off, handing it to you swiftly. “We'll be here waiting for you.” When you don't take it, he puts it back on his lap.

You leave the warm carriage, wounded leg heavy under your weight. The cool breeze whips at your cheeks, making you shiver in your bare bones clothes. But you're too stubborn to turn back and ask for Miguel's jacket.

Your eyes scan the ancient graveyard. A gothic chapel sits in the middle, all stone and jagged metal, stained glass of saints watch from their window sills. A gargoyle looks down at you, mouth agape, tongue lolling to the side, ears pointed and alert at the new visitor.

How appropriate, you think as you cross the metal gates.

Soft grass and graveyard soil crunch underneath your footsteps. You can feel the frost under your threadbare sole. Crows caw on top of graves, the names barely legible, years etched out by the elements.

Walking the pathway to the foot of the small hill, you see her waiting for her. Your eyes water, jaw tightly clenched. You suddenly feel dizzy.

“You gonna keep me waiting?” She yells above the wind. The branches of the large tree sways in the breeze.

“I have a weak leg. Always so impatient.” You reminisce of the old days where she would wait for you outside the cabin after you went out to play.

“What are you? Fifty? Why do you have a weak leg?”

You trudge up the small hill, hands on your thighs, heaving slightly. The moment you reach her, you have the urge to run.

“You better not run this time.” Jess jokes, “can you look at me, tomato?”

Slowly raising your head, a deep frown on your lips, hands clenching the sides of your trousers. You meet with her eyes, eyes that you grew up with, and a face that barely changed.

“You look how I remember.” Whispering, you choke on your words.

“And you grew up, not so little anymore huh?” Her brown eyes are soft, hand reaching towards you before changing her mind. “I'd like to say you look great but you look absolutely terrible. Like you've been grinded down to a pulp and fed to a bear.”

“And you look fantastic.”

She raises a neat brow, her hair is just like how you remembered it, down to every curl and twist. “Are you trying to guilt me?”

“I might be.” You can't help the tear that's falling down your cheek. “I missed you. I should've let you explain first before running—”

Jessica pulls you in abruptly, hand atop your head, cradling you like she used to. She shushes you like a mother to her babe. Rocking you softly in her arms that you're oh so familiar with.

“Missed you too, god, I thought you were gone forever.” She inhales your unfamiliar scent, you feel her tears drip to the crown of your head. “I should've ran after you quicker,” kissing your temple, you finally embrace her back. “I've always told you that you were too fast for your own good.”

You laugh in between tears. “Can you please explain everything to me? Please, mum.”

She holds your face in both hands, you don't miss the gold band around her ring finger. “Mom? Oh I missed you saying that.” Pecking your wet cheeks, you close your eyes, savoring the rare moment. “Come sit with me? If you could permit me, your grace?”

You laugh hard for the first time since you got shot. “Call me that again and I'll run.”

“I'm so sorry, your grace,” you giggle as she wipes your tears. “How disrespectful of me.”

“Stop!”

“Oh my love.” She takes a good long look at you. “I'm glad you're here, you did incredibly well for yourself.”

“I was taught well.” She beams at you, warm hands still holding you close.

“Are you hungry? I made your favourites.” Jess gestures towards the blanket behind her. A basket lays on top of it, the leaves from the willow tree fall slowly like snowflakes.

You nod, feeling like a child once again.

—

“It's crudely done.” Jessica says while peeking under your bandages. “Please don't tell me you did this or I might've failed as a teacher.”

You shake your head, mouth full of bread. “No, a surgeon did.”

“Don't talk with your mouth full.” You chew quietly. “Miguel should get his money back because a dolphin would've done it better.”

“A dolphin? They don't have thumbs.”

“It was the first animal that popped up in my mind.” She chuckles, popping a cherry tomato in her mouth.

“So, are you happy with him?” You pick at your nails.

She picks up on what you meant immediately. Smiling to herself, face falling on her shoulder as she looks at you. “Very, he's a good man.”

“That's fantastic.” You're genuinely happy for her. But there's a cinch in your heart. “Where is he now?”

“Hiding in our inn, I think he's afraid of you after hearing you joined a pirate crew.”

“I guess he's not that good then.” You joke.

“Are you happy with yours?”

“The pie? Yeah it's good.”

“Not the fucking pie, sweetheart. Your pirate captain.” You almost choke.

“How in the fuck—?”

“Language.” She laughs. “Miguel keeps me updated on your exploits, sometimes. And I know you, you've got that lovelorn look on you.” You scrunch up your face. “Of all the pirate captains in the world you chose the red spider. I heard he's one of the good ones. How in the world did that happen?”

“You know Hobie?”

“Ohh” she whistles, “first name basis huh?”

You suddenly miss him. “Well we're friends, of course I call him by his name.”

“Sure, sure. No, I don't know him personally.” She rolls her eyes at you. “Can you tell me who shot my girl?”

You inhale deeply, “ah that, uh, he did.” You try to save his reputation when she scowls. “Accidentally! It was an accident.”

“He's not looking too good in my books right now.”

You laugh softly. Cleaning your hands on your trousers, you clear your throat as it starts to close up from your upcoming question.

“How did you really find me?” You don't avoid her eyes, bravely staring at her.

“It's a long story, my love.”

“We have plenty of time. Tell me then, tell me the story.” You tilt your head down to meet her eyes. “Did you know them?”

“She couldn't even name you.” She whispers sadly. Your breath staggers at the thought. “I didn't know them. I was just out on a job, it was supposed to be just another job. They told us pirates boarded the ship, to make us do what we were told.” her face is serious, eyes meeting yours. Shock hits you before you quickly hide it. “Your mother just gave birth to you when I entered her room. She was left unguarded, her ladies fled and left her on her birthing bed.” You feel your lips wobble. “She just looked…terrified, and you looked so tiny—I couldn't— I couldn't do it.”

“Do what?” The story of her finding you alone in the woods breaks apart.

“Do what our captain asked us to do.”

There's an unpleasant recurring name that pops in your mind. “Who was your captain? Was it Mathias Bradshaw?”

With her bewildered nod, anger bubbles in your ribcage.

The word liar etches in your mind, not for the woman in front of you, no, you know when she lies, you know her tells. It's for the man waiting down below the hill.

Jess continues. “Your mother sensed my terror, so she took me by the collar while my gun was raised to her head, gripping me tightly until I promised to protect you.”

Miguel told you it was pirates that killed them. Liar, liar, liar.

But you remember how he recalled his side of the story— he woke up to the news of the shipwreck. The messenger told him it was because of pirates. No one survived, not even the ship. The cogs in your head turn, you wonder if he's also been lied to. You trust Jess more than him, you need answers.

“You said you were a midwife. Not navy.” Jessica sees the fire in your eyes.

“I was before I joined, then I became their medic. What did O’hara tell you?”

You shake your head, “the same thing.” You lied. “Then what happened?”

“I faked your death by throwing a blanket off the ship. But in truth I already hid you inside a crate. You were quiet, like you knew what was happening.” She reaches for your hand. “When no one was looking I took you back to our ship. Then I fled when no one was looking. I was…young, Y/N, and powerless to do anything. I was just a medic who wanted to do something right because I knew what we were doing wasn't.”

Squeezing her hand three times, you look for any lies in her eyes. Just like you thought, you find none.

Jess lays her head on your shoulder, half hugging you, unaware of the flames burning inside you.

“Who commanded Mathias to kill them?” You whisper.

“I don't know, I was just a grunt.” She says truthfully. “Another gun for his troop.”

“You were more than that to me.” You softly say against her hair. “You're my mother, and I'm lucky enough that you have a heart to uproot your life, to raise a child you didn't know.”

After a moment, she leans away, staring at the side of your face. “He told you something different didn't he?”

“He did.” You say with bared teeth, watching the afternoon sun on the horizon, clouds hiding its light, bathing the city below with muddled orange.

She scoffs, “O’hara still can't believe it. I've told him the story, even showed him my navy badge. He still can't fathom it.”

“He knows?” You move your head quickly to look at her.

“He does, but I highly doubt he's the one who organized it all. He was still just a captain then, recently promoted, still green around the edges. He couldn't have commanded Mathias to do it when he's his senior.”

“Who do you think it was?”

“Someone much more powerful than Mathias.” She looks below the hill where Miguel waits inside the carriage. “I think he investigated it when he was a proper admiral, when he had enough power to rifle through confidential papers. And that got him kicked out. Honourable discharge, my ass.”

“Do you think I should ask him directly?”

“Don't, my only advice to you is to not do anything.”

“What?” You can't believe the words she said.

“Listen, Miguel's life mission was to find you, and mine is to give you the life you deserve. We both want what's best for you.” She plucks a fallen leaf off your shoulder. “He's been at it since they died. I didn't even know someone was looking for you until he showed up at my doorstep. When he explained everything to me I just knew you had to come with him.”

“That was when I ran.”

“Yes. I told him the story and the conspiracy against your family but he couldn't believe it until you showed up. He recognized you and the necklace.” She flicks her brown eyes at the golden chain around your neck. “It was your mother's.”

“You told me when you found me on the forest floor I was clutching it.”

“I did, in truth, she gave it to you before she said her goodbyes. Before Mathias came into the room.” Jess has tears in her eyes. “They loved you so much, Y/N. For their sake, don't do anything brave.” She grabs your shoulders. “Revenge isn't the answer.”

“I know, but it helps.” You seethe at the new information. “I need to bring the people down that plucked me out of their grasp. Or I'll be doing them a disservice.”

You sound like him. Now you fully understand why he stays near the flames.

You ask her the most important question, it has your heart wrenching at your throat. “D-didn't you love me? Why, after thirteen years of taking care of me, why did you want to get rid of me?”

Tears flow out Jessica's eyes, hands sliding up to cradle your face. “Of course I loved you. That's why I wanted to give you the life you deserved.”

“I was happy enough in our cabin. It was enough for me, mum.” You hold her wrist, the gold on her finger marks a life you never knew she had without you. “It was enough.”

“My love—”

“I should go back, they've been waiting for a long time.” You stand up, legs shaking. “And I think it's best for you to go back too.”

“You're staying with them?”

“Yes, isn't this the life you wanted me to have?”

With an exhale, she lets you go. “Be careful.” She looks up at you with soft eyes, worry etched in her face.

Your skin is bathed in the dark orange of the sky, eyes reflecting grief and fury. The chapel looms over you, all stone and metal, all death and life. She barely recognizes you in this light.

“No promises. I love you, mum. I hope you know that.” Jessica's reply got stuck in her throat.

As you head down the hill, you count the crows watching you. Three perched on graves, black eyes blinking at your form. Five flies overhead, feathered shadows casting above you.

There's crunching behind the building, the sound of familiar footfalls hiding behind it. You gather it's your exhaustion playing tricks on you.

You reach the gates, a man on a horse gallops away the moment Miguel gets his letter.

“Who was that?” You ask like you didn't leave your heart behind.

“A messenger.” Miguel skims through the letter. “Your uncle wants to meet you in the palace.” He clicks his tongue. “Asshole.” He says under his breath.

“Let's meet him then. I've always wanted to go to the palace.” Maybe you'll get some answers there.

Miguel looks at you with surprise, as fast as it came, it fades back into his usual frown.

Lyla peeks from the carriage, eyes still half asleep. “Not looking like that you're not.”

—

The ride to the fancy Inn was long and silent, the road less bumpy once you enter the heart of the city. The palace can be seen in your bedroom window. All white and gilded gold, glinting in the sunset, imposingly beautiful.

The room they gave you is all velvet and wood, cherubs painted on the ceiling, thick carpet under your bare feet, a bed that you've never thought was able to be made as big as the one you're standing over.

You're freshly cleaned, you've scrubbed yourself free of any dirt and blood. Nothing left of the past months but the scars on your skin. In the dark robe, you drip water everywhere, drenching your undergarments and the carpet that must've been worth hundreds. You don't care as you stare at your well worn shoes in front of you. Its leather is tattered and beaten, covered in dirt and iron. Compared to the nicer shoes sitting right next to it, it's worth nothing, but to you it was yours and that's worth more than anything.

“Knock knock.” Lyla barges in, dressed in cashmere and taffeta. “You're not dressed yet? Don't like the colour? I told Miguel purple won't cut it.” She heads over to the wardrobe, taking the purple dress in her arms. “Do you need help? It's a bit tricky.”

“Who are you to Miguel?”

“Ah! I heard you were a curious one.” She claps her hands. “An assistant, I guess. See, I'm the reason why he found you so fast after the whole Cambridge fiasco.”

“That was two years ago.” You recall the last time he found you before you accidentally boarded the revenge.

“Mm-hmm, I'm a tracker you see.” She helps you dress with your approval. “He almost gave up until I stumbled upon him. Hired on the spot I was.”

“Stumbled?” You say, drowning in fabric. “Or followed a desperate man and hounded him?”

She giggles, “I keep forgetting you also know how to hustle. Don't tell Miguel and I won't tell him what you did to his key?” Smoothing out the skirt, she turns you towards the floor length mirror.

“Is this blackmail?” You don't recognize yourself.

“Nope,” Lyla pops the letter ‘p’ “just telling you. Also I liked the red spider. He's quite famous to us common folk, y'know.” She guides you towards the vanity, sitting you down on the plush seat. “May I do your hair?”

“Fine, just don't make it look weird.”

“Thank you, your grace.” You roll your eyes at her teasing tone. “Don't worry, I'm very good with hair, I won't make a fool out of you.” She looks at you through the mirror in front, hands atop your shoulders. “I think he's quite loved in these parts. The crown, on the other hand, hates his guts.”

She expertly handles your hair. “I can see why though. He's been a thorn on their pompous asses for years. I bet if he walked on the common side of the city he'd be left alone by the people. But the moment he walks on the richer side, AKA where we are right now, he'd be arrested the moment he set foot.”

“So the people would be at his side then?” You take note.

“Yep, after all the gold they got from him I think it's only appropriate that they love the guy and his crew.” She puts rouge on your lips, and silver thread in your hair. “There! I'm done, damn, I'm good aren't I?”

The bodice is in rich velvet and dark purple, swirling silver daisies patterned on the fabric, ribbons tying it all together. The skirt falls around your legs like waterfalls, deep violets dotting along the hem. It's beautiful and finely crafted from every stitch to its lace sleeves. The way she did your hair ties it all together.

You can admit, you do look good. Smiling, you thank her.

“Hmm,” She pats the sleeve of your dress, shaking her head. “I think red would suit you better.” The words struck you like a lightning bolt. “Maybe next time, for now, put on your shoes because we'll be meeting royalty.”

Taking something from behind, the familiar steel shines in the candle light. For a moment you thought she would stab you with it but she hands it to you, handle first. “For you, just in case.”

You stare dumbfounded at the sea snake curling around the handle, the turtle’s eyes staring back.

As she leaves you, shutting the heavy door, you let out a sob.

—

You try your best to act like you belong in the golden palace, but you couldn't possibly do it when your heels clack against italian made marble floors. Whenever you look down you can see your reflection blinking back at you. You might look the part, except for the way your eyes dart around the expansive room, you're not fooling anyone. The saints that are finely painted on the ceiling seem to judge you, perfect faces unblinkingly watch above, puffs of white clouds drawn around them like blankets of cotton.

Large columns loom all around you, golden laurels dotted across the walls, paintings of old watches your nervous form as you make your way towards the throne room.

All splendor, no thought under all the gold and glitter.

There's cracks in the façade, as much as they try to hide it with plaster, you can see it, hear it, even if it's just below a whisper. The men scattered around the long hallway are turning their heads away, murmuring hushed words. Painted eyes watch you, red lips smirking at your form before drinking from their overflowing cups.

You cling to Miguel in all his fancy clothing. He cleaned himself up nicely, a picture of a proper gentleman. With his arm the only solid thing near you, you hold tighter. He senses your swirling emotions, leaning down to whisper close to you so the footmen guiding you won't hear.

“Breathe.” He says, “it'll be over soon.”

“Why do we have to meet the king and queen? I thought we were here to meet my uncle.” You impatiently utter when you feel like you've been walking forever towards the throne room. The shoes don't help.

“It's customary, I'm sorry. If it was up to me we'd be on our way to your estate.”

Lyla walks behind the both of you, eyes watching you like a hawk, as if you can run in your state.

“Why isn't it up to you then?” Your voice raises a bit, it echoes around the enormous room.

“At the end of the day, they're your relatives. I'm your godfather all by name only but without a piece of paper to prove it. It's only a promise from your parents before you were born.”

“So you don't have proof? People must think you're a weirdo running after some girl who might be already dead.”

Miguel laughs deeply and genuinely. “I bet they do.”

You smile, “hate to break it to you, O’Hara, they definitely think you're bonkers.”

“Definitely.” Finally, you three come to a stop.

Two large doors stand before you, carved lions and a familiar sea monster decorate the wood. The two footmen open the doors and you swear you've never hated just standing.

A crowd waits for you, they stand on the side, all silk and gold adorning their expensive bodies. Fake smiles and whispers thrown at you the second they laid eyes on you.

“Fuck.” You quietly whisper. Miguel gives your hand a gentle reassuring squeeze.

“One foot forward after the other.” He whispers back. “Don't let them see you mess up.”

“I already hate all of them.” You smile politely, small and fake.

Two figures sit on two large thrones, golden crowns perched on top of their heads, well practiced smiles, and stiff backs against the uncomfortable stone chairs. They're dripping in gold, from the threads woven in their clothes and cloaks to their shoes. There's no single mark on their faces, no scars or pores, just perfection. Fake perfection, you thought as the queen's smile falters when you get closer to their pedestal.

“My, how pretty you are.” The king says in disbelief. His voice is commanding, accent unfamiliar, too fancy, you thought.

A man born with a golden spoon in his mouth. You want to shove it down further in his throat when you think about the starving people you've come across during your travels, and he's dressed in something that could feed a whole town.

You realize Miguel and Lyla are bowing and you're not. Standing upright, you don't even consider bowing to people such as them. They don't deserve it.

They don't seem to notice your insubordination when their green eyes roam around your form. Trying to find your imperfections.

“Don't you think she's pretty, my love?” He asks his queen who fakes a manicured smile. “She looks so much like her mother doesn't she?”

“That is true, dear husband.” Her golden earrings sway whenever she turns her head. The white wig perfectly placed on her royal head makes you want to hurl at the similarities between Mathias' own powdered wig.

“You're a sight for sore eyes O’Hara!” The king adds to Miguel's annoyance. “Welcome back to the capital. I haven't seen you in a decade, old friend.”

Miguel straightens out his posture, chest out, eyes boring into the man's skull. If looks could kill, he'd be at the gallows by now.

“Thank you for the warm welcome, your highness.” He spits out the last word like it's poisoned. And you wonder why it is.

“Say, my friend, why does she walk with a limp?”

Miguel opens his mouth but you interrupt. “She—”

“I was shot,” a hush falls around the room. You correct yourself, not wanting to look like the bad guy in all of this. “Your highness.”

“Shot? By a gun?” The queen covers her open mouth, face shocked at the information. “Who would want to kill such a pretty thing?”

“Surprisingly a lot—” Miguel stops you, warning you with a look.

“She was caught in a crossfire, but she's strong and she's healing well.” He saves you.

“That's good—”

The door abruptly opens, two people emerge from the large doors. The man has his arms open, grinning widely, quickly making his way towards the thrones. The woman walks all prim and proper behind him, not wasting her time to look at the crowd, or you.

A footman rushes in, briskly announcing their presence with his blaring voice. “The duke and duchess of Hazelside!” You blink in surprise at the mention of your house name.

“Eddie, my boy!” Your ‘uncle’ exclaims boisterously. “Ready for our night out?!” he says while shaking his hips in a crude manner.

Your aunt bows, face flat and unreadable.

“Welcome back, you old sack of shit!” The king exclaims to your surprise. Not the kind of behaviour you thought a king would have.

“Fucking hell.” You say under your breath, Miguel tightly shuts his mouth to avoid a laugh. “These motherfuckers are related to me?” You ask the man next to you, tone as quiet as a dormouse.

The crew were quite rambunctious too, but at least they were actually funny and respectful to an extent. And not covered in fine jewels that could fix every problem an entire town has.

You miss them already, you feel your chest clench at the mere thought of them.

He deeply sighs, “yes.”

“Please tell me my parents weren't like this.”

“I'm happy to tell you that they were not.” He leans away when your uncle notices the two of you.

“Oh!” Your uncle finally notices you and Miguel. “Miguel is that you? And– woah! Is that my…” he smells of ale and strong perfume. “My niece? I honestly don't bloody know what I should call you because we are really far away from each other on the ol’ family tree.” he gestures towards his wife. “Ain't that right, my dear?”

She doesn't acknowledge him. “My name's Victoria and this is my husband, Frederick. Welcome back to the land of the living, dear niece.”

“Glad to be back— oof” Frederick suddenly drunkenly hooks you and his wife in his arms.

“Look at you two!” His breath stinks. “Already best friends huh?”

Miguel subtly takes you away from your uncle while his wife shoves him away. You thank Miguel with a nod.

“Oh you're so pretty!” He yells now that he had a proper look at you without the haze from the liquor. “I would say you look like your mother or your father but I've never met them! And you know about those portraits, I highly doubt they weren't doctored.” He laughs like a donkey starved. “Listen, I'm surprised my wife isn't stabbing you with her numerous hair pins right now—”

“Frederick!” She yells. The royals seem to like the scene in front of them as they genuinely smile and hide their laughs behind opulent hands. “We shall talk about the ownership of the estate and the title after she reacquaints herself to society.” she says like you've been living like a savage until Miguel found you.

You scrunch up your face, fighting the urge to backtalk your so-called aunt.

“Isn't that right, your highnesses?” She turns towards the couple draped in gold.

“That's right, for now, we shall discuss what we didn't finish the last time you two visited.” The queen answers for her husband.

“Yes! During a game of poker perhaps?” Your uncle says. Miguel looks like he's losing his patience.

“Absolutely!” The king stands up, laughing while they both walk away from the room.

Both women follow suit, not uttering a single word between them.

“Is that it?” You ask the two people next to you. “Can we go now?”

Miguel kneads at his forehead. “I'm afraid we have to stay here until they finish. I still have things to discuss with them.” you narrow your eyes.

“What?!” Lyla speaks, unable to hold it in anymore.”

“I could…” He wavers but he takes one look at you and he continues. “...join them and make sure they don't play well into the night.”

“Wait, no, that means I have to join you too!” Lyla stomps her foot.

“No, go watch over Y/N. Just in case.”

“I can take care of myself.” You sound offended.

“I know, it's the people here I don't trust.”

With his parting words, you and Lyla find things to do in the vast palace.

—

It wasn't like the fairytales Jessica once told you about. Princes saving damsels in distress locked in a tower, jesters dancing around the smooth floors, kind kings finding their one true love. Instead you get whatever the hell you just witnessed.

You and Lyla found a portrait room, trying to occupy yourself until Miguel fetches you both. The walls are covered in paintings of nobility. Their eyes seem to follow you everywhere you go as you skim through the art on the walls.

Lyla snores softly on the plush settee in the middle of the room. Turns out you're the one who has to watch over her.

It's been a couple of hours since the disastrous first meeting. When you imagined meeting your family you thought it would be full of tears and hugs, instead you were greeted by a drunken duke and a stiff duchess.

Your mind goes back to the people you left. Janet and Thena would get a kick out of you being a noble. Gwen, Miles and Pavitr would tease the living hell out of you, poking your velvet clad side and making remarks at how you've sold your soul. Yuri on the other hand would actually try to marry you. While James—well James is there.

And Hobie, Hobie would hate you.

The pearl in your pocket is cold as you roll it in between fingers. The dagger hidden inside your skirt presses down your thigh. Eyes forlorn, mouth frowning, you distract yourself by staring at dead people on the gold inlay walls.

“Oh hello.” A familiar voice echoes throughout the expansive room. “Have you had supper?” The queen asks, eyebrows knitting at Lyla’s sleeping form. Her heels clack on the expensive floors, hands clasped in front of her, standing like how you thought aristocrats would stand.

“I ate beforehand.” You say, confused as to why she's even talking to you.

“That's too bad, the chef's making her special.” She smiles at you, a touch of authenticity in it. “May I show you something?”

“Sure.” It's not like you have a choice in the matter.

“I haven't properly introduced myself, my name's Caroline. It's a pleasure to meet you.” She says in her practiced tone.

“Y/N, your majesty.” You think it's hard to keep her appearance even though it's only you and a wall of paintings.

“Y/N, how lovely. Your mother chose well.”

“She didn't get a chance to name me.” You say sourly. “My guardian named me,” you once again correct yourself. “Your majesty.”

“Come, I must show it to you before you go.” She gestures for you to follow, her bracelets clash against the other when she beckons you over.

Caroline stops in front of a portrait of a woman in a similar colour of gown like yours. A single long stemmed rose in her hand, smile soft and alive. Then you look at her face, really look at her. And you feel like the ground is trying to eat you whole.

“It's her.” You softly say, still in disbelief. Eyes sliding down to see the identical necklace on her neck.

“Indeed. You might look like her but I think you have your father's eyes.”

You whip your head towards her, “does he have a portrait here too?”

“Unfortunately no,” you visibly deflate.

“Did you know them? Personally?”

“Your mother and I used to have the same governess growing up. She was a close friend.” Her green eyes seem to search something in you. “Your father on the other hand, I barely knew. But I knew they would end up together the second he danced with her at a ball. She looked at him like he's the sky himself, while he looked at her like she's the finest jewel.”

You imagine the scene where it was possible that you were also there.

“When I heard they eloped outside the country, I knew I was right. The moment I heard of their untimely deaths at the hands of vicious pirates, I was devastated.” She takes your hands without asking. Her hands are soft, no calluses or bumps. “You see, I feel a sense of kinship with her, she was supposed to marry my husband back then. I got bumped up when your parents married in secret, so I have her to thank for everything I have right now.”

“She was supposed to marry the king?”

“My Edward was the crown prince back then, but yes, she was supposed to be wed to him.” She rubs her thumbs above your palms. “If you need any help, any at all, don't be afraid to ask for me. I'll do everything in my power to help my old friend's only daughter.”

“That's good to know, your majesty.”

“Of course, anything at all, little bird.”

The doors burst open suddenly, and out comes your heavily drunk uncle stumbling in. Frederick spots you, he gasps, laughing and pointing at you while he has a bottle in his hand.

“We shall have a ball to welcome my niece!” He wobbles over to you, slurring his words.

His wife comes running in after him, grabbing her husband by the collar before he reaches your side and the queen's. “Caroline, your majesty. Niece.” She apologizes quickly with a bow before dragging him out.

Miguel walks in with his shirt rumpled and jacket in his hand. He bows when he sees the queen before waking Lyla up with a measured slap on her bicep. She wakes up with a start, heart racing at the sudden wake up call.

“I bid you farewell. Do remember what we discussed.” The queen turns to you, letting your hands go.

You give her a polite smile. “Of course, thank you.”

She leaves with a nod towards Miguel. With the click of the doors, he can finally breathe properly.

“Ready to come home?”

No.

“Yes.” Your eyes play tricks as you see Hobie in the corner of your eyes. When you glance at the wall, he's gone like a candle light.

[shunsuiken]

hc’s for Kuroo and Bokuto with a fem!s/o that DOES NOT STOP TALKING!!EVER!!! like she seems quiet and calm at first, but then she surprises them; please 🥺🥺 xo

due to my illiteracy i read kuroo and kenma sdsjdksj i still wrote bokutos hcs tho so dw! thank u for this request<3

kuroo, kenma and bokuto having a talkative fem s/o.

—kuroo tetsurou.

so when you and kuroo first started dating

you guys were kinda nervous at first but thats natural for a new couple

after a few weeks though, you guys began opening up quicker and more comfortably with each other

communicating became much easier as well when you both learned each others love languages through lots of trial and error 💀

then came this time where

it was as if

your soul had switched with someone elses

because kuroo knew the type of person you were and what you were like

but that was not what he felt when he saw you excitedly chatting away with your friends regarding some movie that came out last week

(you guys are also laughing HYSTERICALLY with each other and omg kuroo has never seen that big of a smile on your face EVER)

kenma had to poke his sides to bring him back to earth cus dude was just that shocked

“KENMA WHAT WAS THAT FOR??-?-?-?1?1”

“you’ve been staring at y/n for a socially unacceptable amount of time, you look like a creep.”

“OH! HEY KUROO YOU’RE ON LUNCH BREAK”

oh my god. kuroo would think at first. who WERE you???

he realised that maybe all this time, the reserved and quiet you may have just been the first layer of your personality, maybe you just needed the time to adapt to the changes?

and so will kuroo lmao

“KUROO KUROO HAVE YOU SEEN THIS NEW MOVIE” “WE SHOULD WATCH IT” “ITS ACTUALLY REALLY NICE AND”

“y/N??? DO YOU NORMALLY SPEAK FHIS MUCH???” he was so used to seeing your calm and relaxed composure

and now that you looked like the epitome of chaos, he felt so cheated that he wasn’t able to get you to be like this in the first few weeks of the relationship

“YEAH!!! but MAYBE im on a SUGAR RUSH right now IM NOT ENTIRELT SURE BUT”

kuroo is just watching you speak, this dumb smile on his face as the truest form of you flourishes in front of him

he’ll start acting like a parent at some point because YOU ARE CRAZY MAAM

“y/n stop yappin’ and EAT” “WAIT WAIT LOOK AT THIS TEASER FOR THAT NE-”

he’d deadass shove a whole onigiri in your mouth just to tease you for a bit

he also likes that he can make jokes and make you laugh louder than before

hes just so happy to see this side of you 🥺

—kozume kenma.

kenma is going to be SO SHOCKED

ngl he’d probably look at u with his brows like >:0 “where did u take my girlfriend!!! where is my girlfriend!!!”

and you’d be in this happy mood so you are PEAK chatty right now so you’re laughing at kenma’s face cus 💀

were your two personalities really just that different 💀💀

kenma will have to get used to your sudden outbursts of excitement conversations every now and then

boy has NO idea what triggered you into switching personalities

but i guess kuroo helps him connect the dots and hes like oh and then hes like oh :D because its a good thing that you willingly act like this in front of him

esp without feeling embarassed or anything hes happy you’re comfortable

its also really cute when you suddenly feel like youre rambling too much

your arm would cling around kenma’s and he’d listen to you ramble about this new netflix show that was released a few weeks ago but it was totally cliche so you told him how the entire internet made fun of it

then when you turn your head to look at kenma, hes just looking forward and you’re like “sorry, rambling arent i?”

“its not a bother,” he’ll say, sliding his fingers to wrap around yours. “if you want we could watch it together for the fun of it”

and thats literally what yall did and oml is kenma glad to see the chaos unfold in front of him

(you were not wrong when you said it was cliche, kenma almost puked at how cliche it was lmfao)

he’ll defs poke fun at the way youre loud just around him and your closest friends but when youre with other people youre just crickets

sometimes when hes playing, you’ll watch his screen and suddenly start braiding his hair

and boy does he have some silky locks despite all the bleaching

then theres another situation where hes playing and you’ll be right beside him, commenting and yelling when they’re in a danger zone

“KENMA IF YOU STAY THERE YOURE-” “I KNOW I KNOW IM TRYING TO GET OUT” “QUICK!! YOUVE ONLY GOT 10 SECONDS LEFT”

“pft kenma you got your girl over or sth? we can hear her” an online friend is gonna say and kenma’s JUST BLUSHING AND STUTTERING, TRYING TO EXPLAIN

you can hear kuroo’s hyena laughter through kenma’s headphones 💀

and since you got to see kenma stumble all over his words and act like a nervous trainwreck, it was overall a very enjoyable experience for you

“sooo when are you gonna play again?”

HES GOING TO PINCH YOUR CHEEKS AS A PUNISHMENT

but you like it cus kenma does this cute nose scrunch whenever he pinches your cheeks

and ever since you’ve shown kenma this side of you, the teases between you and him have been endless

you both make sure never to go too far with the jokes tho! so alls good :)

—bokuto koutarou.

bo would prolly be so confused at first like yall know that one ep where hes up against karasuno for that summer training camp and hes just (°_°) YEAH

he’d be like that for the first five seconds before shit clicks

“Y/N!!! Y/N!!!!” “KOU!!! KOUTAROU!!!!” and cue the big couple hug

and every other third year is like 💆🏻‍♀️ here they go AGAIN

and akaashi is literally holding bokuto’s hotdog he literally threw in the air

“A- AKAASHI DO YOU SEE THIS” “yes, bokuto-san, please lower your voice”

bokuto is just 🤩 @ you and he can’t seem to take his eyes off your lips, he loves the way they move

sometimes when yall are in the same class, everyone purposely puts you two on each end of the class

just so that your vibes dont mix and end up causing an explosion

but distance makes the heart grow fonder 🥴

SO THERES LITERALLY NO DIFFERENCE

but even if you two become a lil too loud for everyones liking, they still enjoy the atmosphere you two bring

also loves to invite you and akaashi to walk home together because 🥺 the energy is just so nice

hes also glad that his girl and his best friend can speak comfortably

also rip akaashi’s ears whenever you two start laughing or yelling about some stupid puns you read out loud on the way home

now, during practises after school

the entire fukurodani vbc has to constantly remind you guys to tone down your noise levels

no, not those noise levels

but the way both of you can speak so passionately when talking about things you both have mutual interest in

there’ll be lots of jumping around and always expect the unconscious hand-holding, bo just really likes to hold hands with you

“Y/N YOU LIKE THIS MOVIE??1?2?1?-?1?” “YEAH IVE LOVED IT SINCE LIKE,,, FOREVER!!”

and obvi bokuto’s gonna bring up and ask you why and how you suddenly have so much more energy than before

and you’re just like “i’m only like that for a while 🥺” and you tell him you only start showing the way you actually act when you’re fully comfy w the person

his face softens, relieved that he can make you feel safe in his presence

hes happy that you’ve come to feel that way

so he becomes clingy for the rest of the afternoon you’re not complaining

[silvertsundere]

Silver Talks AniManga (22/09/24)

Post is a day late cause I was catching up to Magilumiere and ended pretty late so I just went to bed instead of finishing up the post and going even later. It was well worth staying up late cause it is THAT good. Looooots of yappin on this one, not just for that but some of the other stuff too. Buncha stuff ending next week too so more yapping then

blue - finale/completed green - new series/new to me pink - catching up

Anime

Plus-Sized Elf Ep12 (Finale)

I was going back and forth between 5 and 4 but ended up here. If it was normal lenght instead of short like this it would've ended up as a 4 for sure and maybe even a 3. But at the end of the day the show knew what it is. Just an ecchi show that served as a tool to promote the manga. They never did anything fancy and the animation was always the bare minimum with a lot of stills and pans. It being uncensored was a surprise for sure but there's not much more to say about it. There is only one joke and it's "damn this girl is thicc as hell", but it's never used in a negative way cause the author is clearly into it so it's not terrible. Tho it is also kinda like danberu with it giving recommendations for a buncha easy exercises anyone can do to lose weight and the such, which I didn't know was a thing cause I only ever saw the gags getting posted so that was cool to see. But at the end of the day, if you're interested in the series you'd be better off reading it anyway since synedoche's art is better

Manga

Yoshida Lemon Drops Ch1

This actually came out last month (and scanlations like 2 weeks ago) but I only now decided that I wanted to start it. I thought it was monthly because of that but apparently it's up to chap 4, there's just not been any more scanlated chaps, oof... But anyway, that was a decent little first chap just setting up the premise. I'ts a rom com between the most popular girl at uni and a guy that's not sure what he's doing at uni in the first place. They used to be together in a club in HS. The twist is that she confesses right at the end of first chap instead of it taking a billion years, it was pretty cute too. The artstyle might look familiar to you and that's because Wakaki has done many a series before including, his biggest one, TWGOK and more recently 365 Days to the Wedding which is getting an anime next season. I've never read or watched any of their other series but I know they're pretty well liked by people who have so I decided to give this new one a try. Hopefully scanlators pick it back up again soon, Mega just told me that the people who did this ch1 also did all of 365 so there's hope 🙏

Magilumiere Co. Ltd. Ch1 - 125

I've been meaning to read this for a long time and finally decided to do it now. Anime is starting on a couple weeks so I'm right on time tehe But anyway, the first chap was really good. I was already expecting good things cause my buddy Mega has always praised it since the start but I was still surprised. I wish every new series on WSJ could have first chapters this good. They did a great job introducing the mains and giving us a little taste of how the world works, plus the art is great, the style really reminds me of early MHA which is a big compliment. I'll go back to reading now and then give some more thoughts when I finish catching up (or if something comes up meanwhile.) Alright I caught up with it and all I can say is, it's peak, it's just peak. As I was reading it I caught myself putting it in the same headspace as Kaiju. Maybe cause they're both Jump+ titles? Maybe cause they're both different takes on their respective genres? I'm not sure but I did. And as much as I like Kaiju, and I like it quite a bit, it feels like Magilumiere blows it out the water. While I like the action scenes in Kaiju a lot more cause it has better coreography and a lot flashier scenes, everything else about Magi is just better, including the art. I think the biggest difference between the two is how much better the pacing is in this compared to it, but the characters also feel a lot more fleshed out unlike in Kaiju where that's only the case for like 4 or 5 of them. The only exception to this is Koshigaya but she's going to get a little arc soon so yeah. Me and Mega discussed it a bit before I went to bed, after catching up, and we think it'll still have 30-40 more chaps so I'll be looking forward to reading this for the next few months. Anyway I'm rambling a lot and still feel like I forgot some stuff I wanted to say but I'll stop here lol

Just one last thing I wanted to add, you can really tell how much the author loves and respects the genre which is refreshing to see. I wish other magical girl series that try to put a "twist" on the genre were half this good. They really do get it

Hakutaku Ch1

Well that was alright, I guess. Certainly the weakest out of the 3 in this serialization round. I wasn't expecting much out of it so can't say I was disappointed but wasn't impressed either. The art was good at least, the artist worked as an assistant for Black Clover before. It's about a boy who gamefies most aspects of his life meeting a girl that wants to make games and her convincing him to make a game with her. This felt a lot like a one shot to me but it's a serialization, so we'll see how the next few chaps go but I won't be expecting too much

[silvertsundere]

Silver Talks AniManga (28/07/24)

not much to say up here, but hero will end next week so expect some yappin then (I'll try to keep it short tehe)

Anime

The Elusive Samurai Ep4

still a good ep, despite the lack of sakuga tho I know it's not realistic to always expect that. Also the CG isn't that terrible, even when shown close up like in some shots the ep had, so won't take that much to get used to it. The typesetting on this episode sucked tho, it was a different person from the first 3 eps and it was instantly noticeable. Hopefully they clean it up next week or they get someone different to do it

Manga

My Hero Academia Ch429

well that certainly wasn't the confession scene I wanted but it was still a good scene, I'll just hope they're together if there's a timeskip 🙏 crazy to think there's only 1 more chap left wah