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love-takes-work · 1 month ago

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Rebecca Sugar and Ian Jones-Quartey on Secret Histories of Nerd Mysteries

Rebecca Sugar and Ian Jones-Quartey gave an interview to Secret Histories of Nerd Mysteries on hosts' Austin Taylor (he/they/she) and Brenda Snell's (she/they) 151st episode. (Ian's last name is correct in the title, but it's incorrectly written as "James-Quartey" in the episode notes.) The subject is the groundbreaking episode "Jailbreak," which just had its 10th anniversary.

The interview itself is bonus content! But then there is a podcast episode with discussion between the two podcast hosts with some additional perspectives from them (mostly Austin) as fans, with short clips from the full interview interspersed.

Highlights from the interview:

We hear a short introduction from Rebecca Sugar (she/they) and Ian Jones-Quartey (he/him) about their roles on Steven Universe (including that they both boarded on the episode "Jailbreak," even though Rebecca was the only one of the two who was credited as a storyboarder, along with Jeff Liu and Joe Johnston of course). Rebecca also wrote the song "Stronger Than You," and they both have writing credits.

Austin asks them to discuss the writing process versus the boarding process, and they go into some detail. It's a storyboard-driven show. First there's an outline; then the storyboarders write and draw the show, and they are responsible for the dialogue too. Premise and outline (Act 1, Act 2, Act 3) are mapped out first. Matt Burnett and Ben Levin played the writing/conceptual roles along with Rebecca and Ian, and they'd get the outline done which would then be handed off to a storyboarder. They essentially chose this process because they wanted to have it all: the traditional boarding process that made such good content, but still have the mile-high view providing an epic storyline. Other creators were always curious about how they'd managed to do both in that sense, and this is how they did it.

They go on to talk about episodes that are "pillars" of the show, how important aspects of the show were worked into big episodes all coming together. Ian talks about "visual set pieces" as a top down element--how "Ocean Gem" had ocean towers into space and "Jailbreak" had a musical fight sequence on a spaceship. They planned those big episodes as potential finales if they didn't get any more episode orders. Rebecca says it was really hard to write the show both as if it could end at any moment AND they were planting enough seeds for the future if they did get more episodes. Ian clarifies that they had a huge story planned that they hoped to get to tell, but they wanted viewers to be satisfied by what they got to give them.

Rebecca pitched "Jailbreak" to the Crew at the time that they were living in this hundred-year-old cabin. They had everybody over to go over the beats of the episode and the Crew members were skeptical that they could get all of that done in 11 minutes. Rebecca describes it as "excitement and terror." Ian praises Jeff and Joe for fitting it in with so much fun and energy. Nothing major was cut story-wise, but Rebecca tells a story they've told before about consolidating some of the content while Ruby is looking for Sapphire, which was disappointing because they had to drop gorgeous drawings by Joe at the board stage. Joe bravely announced he didn't care that they had to lose it. Haha! Ian thinks some fighting Peridot on the ship was consolidated too so it would fit in the song break.

Rebecca discusses how they learned in the first season that they really had to keep big reveals and concepts tied down to their own episodes. They had early ideas of Steven separating from his Gem early in Season 1 and it was just too much too soon. "Lion 2: The Movie" had a bunch of new concepts at once and the reveals were too much for a casual audience to catch everything. Pieces that had to be built for "Jailbreak" to work required individual episodes introducing concepts for how fusion works, where Gems are from, etc.

Austin the host says they'd been watching Steven Universe from the beginning, and they enjoyed the show as a casual viewer but they felt like people really NOTICED this show for the first time when "Jailbreak" aired. They want to know whether the Crew had any idea that the episode was going to be such an artistic and cultural game-changer. Rebecca describes being in a weird fan-cocoon with the content because they had had "Jailbreak" finished for a whole year by the time we saw anything and they were already all the way moved on to Season 3 of the show by then. They didn't know where to put their enthusiasm as a historically very fannish person. Ian describes how Cartoon Network would take completed episodes and leave them on the shelf for a long time before airing them and they weren't able to reveal anything. They believed they would just have a niche audience and did NOT foresee the huge fan response. Rebecca tries to talk about how controversial the content was but Ian interrupts to say it was also so different from everything their peers were making.

Rebecca picks up the discussion of the radical content, referencing how on Adventure Time they'd learned that same-sex content was a no-no so they had to wait until they weren't getting so much scrutiny before trying to build anything of that nature into the main text of the show. They got pushback internally when they turned the episode in, with decision-makers saying they could not have the same-sex relationship, but the song was done, the schedule was set to send it to Korea for full animation, it was really too late. They couldn't have done that earlier in the run, but now because of the stability they'd built, they could get it in under the radar. Rebecca mentions getting the suggestion that Ruby could be a boy, to which they replied that Ruby and Sapphire were Gems and they are in love and there's a song about it. They were then told no mouth-kissing was allowed, which was amusing to Rebecca because the boards for the episode never showed them kissing on the mouth. The planned kiss was always on the eye, and that was how Rebecca wanted it, because Sapphire kissing Ruby's tear seemed so intimate. They finally relented, saying if it was already done it was already done, BUT they weren't allowed to confirm the same-sex relationship or talk about it outside the show. Ian got in trouble for doing it anyway. He tells the story:

A fan asked him a Twitter question about whether Ruby and Sapphire would be considered a same-sex couple in human terms (he doesn't remember clearly what was asked, but I recall it's the question about whether they would be femme-presenting nonbinary lesbians), and he confirmed it while emphasizing that's the human version while they are Gems. Articles were written, the studio found out, he got called into meetings and scolded, and they made him apologize to one of the heads of the studio. He had to cool way off on how he answered questions from fans for a while, but eventually he was able to share the truth again.

Rebecca shares that the only expectation they were led to believe existed would be a negative reaction, especially if studios in more homophobic countries found out this content was in the show. There are places on Earth where being LGBTQ is a crime. The pulling of funding could lead to the end of the show. The studio apparently did not anticipate a positive response anywhere. Rebecca refers to the older LGBTQ fans as a "secondary demographic" that didn't matter to the the network at the time, and that they were entirely focused on the show doing well with 6-to-11-year-old boys. Rebecca wanted those kids to have this show too, along with their loved ones, and it doesn't seem to have occurred to most of the higher-ups that boys in that age group are sometimes themselves a queer orientation. The closest they got to believing it would be relevant to those kids is if they had same-sex parents. The concept of queer youth was years away for them. Rebecca didn't even really realize how many people it might resonate with because the work and its motivation was highly personal, only common in their experience with a few other artists they knew. (And artists are weird and unrelatable, right?)

Austin asks their guests to share some fond memories of making the episode. They go into the process of writing the song and how much pressure Rebecca felt when faced with the concept of writing a song for Estelle to sing. Rebecca consulted with Estelle to get her input on what inspiration would feed into a song that's a love song, a fight song, and a victory song all at once.

Rebecca so deeply wanted to use the skills they had--an animation degree!--to convey a message that could help influence the world in a positive way, and they specifically reference wanting people to be more accepting of a couple like themself and Ian. They wanted to tell young people that this kind of relationship isn't wrong, and with all the battles they fought against bigoted perspectives, they felt it was a vital fight. The clash between Garnet and Jasper is meant to represent taking a stand and advocating for those relationships, and Garnet's response to Jasper's hate was "too bad." This was one of the fondest memories Rebecca had--that they were able to take this deeply personal idea to their Crew, their composers and writers and artists, and have them all support and contribute to a message that they were being told was not expected to be well received. Rebecca and Ian drew the scene together of Garnet reintegrating, and they loved that they could bring the whole Crew into that world to make a difference.

Ian points out that they worked so hard to get this message out there and that was part of the reason he did want to share the truth on Twitter when he replied in a way that got him in trouble. They had gone in this deep and wanted it to pay off. "Jailbreak" used up all of its allotted retakes trying to make it as good as it could be. Ian talks about the song aligning properly and how even the release of the song has its own story. Then they discuss the Stevenbomb format and the messed up airing order, which was upsetting to Rebecca because the details are important (and Garnet's outfit going back to her Season 1 design sticks out like a sore thumb in the out-of-order episodes). Rebecca brings up the "Say Uncle" crossover and how it focuses on Steven learning to summon his shield reliably, which is very important for him to actually be able to do in "The Return," so it's odd to see him struggling with it in a later episode (despite that it was intentionally non-canon).

Ian decides he wants to talk about the Undertale fan parody of "Stronger Than You." He describes how their song didn't get publicized by the network, not even with major releases like this song, so it didn't get posted for months. In the meantime, the Undertale fandom used "Stronger Than You" in a parody, and that became many fans' first exposure to the song. Ian thinks it's funny. The Undertale version still has way more views than the original song.

Austin wants to say one more thing, and it's about the ending gimmick of the episode with an iris out as Connie calls to find out what happened. Austin thinks that's a great way to remind people it's a cartoon, and Rebecca chimes in to say how it was always really important to them to keep the show funny. They also then discuss that the fans outside the network's intended demographic sometimes became possessive of the show to the point that they said it was NOT actually for kids and that THEY were the core audience, but Ian says it's not true that it's not for those kids. It's for them too, and some of the work they did on keeping it funny and accessible to them was just as important. Rebecca points out that some of the people now talking to them about the show WERE those children who were in the intended demographic. Rebecca loved the secondary audience but also enjoyed when whole families could enjoy it together, like they did as a child with their father.

There's some discussion about Cartoon Network's inability to properly advertise the show most of the time (though Rebecca acknowledges they were "being difficult" and they were kind of the wild card), and they really wanted the events to be hyped as much as something like a big Game of Thrones episode because that's the level of importance these revelations have to the core audience. And for clarification, Rebecca loved and respected the S&P department at the network. Those people are often really cool according to Ian, and they'll have very specific requests for changes (like "you can only say 'sucks' twice," while "blows" was more acceptable than "sucks"). They can find any which way something unintentional could be taken as dirty or objectionable.

Highlights from the podcast episode/discussion:

In introduction, we hear that the day of the podcast episode's release--10 years after the groundbreaking Steven Universe episode "Jailbreak" aired--it isn't so headline-inspiring to have queer content in a cartoon, but that was not the case when Ruby and Sapphire's same-sex relationship was featured in this season finale. We hear a short introduction from Rebecca (she/they) and Ian (he/him) about their roles on Steven Universe (including that they both boarded on the episode "Jailbreak," even though Rebecca was the only one of the two who was credited as a storyboarder, along with Jeff Liu and Joe Johnston of course). Host Brenda jokes that they can't believe they actually got the creator of Pug Davis on the show. (They talk a bit about the graphic novel too.)

The hosts describe the content of the episode "Jailbreak," and then they cut to another clip from Rebecca and Ian discussing the characters' kiss. They're Gems and kissing on the lips has no special meaning to them, so the fact that Sapphire kissed Ruby on the eye wasn't less intimate as far as they were concerned. They discuss how a bunch of the episodes were aired out of intended order. They mention the Uncle Grandpa crossover (mentioned to be one of Rebecca Sugar's favorites!) and the host Austin gets their wires crossed a bit here by claiming "Say Uncle" was supposed to air after "Jailbreak" but aired before (it was actually the other way around), and claimed that she had her post-"Jailbreak" outfit on in the episode (she didn't; again, other way around; Garnet is wearing her old outfit and that's why we know it's technically intentionally a Season 1 episode).

The host says "Jailbreak" aired as part of the first Stevenbomb (a special event where they'd show a bunch of episodes in a row, usually over the course of most or all of a week), and points out that Rebecca Sugar had no part in the decision to do Stevenbombs. That was all the network's decision. For some reason the host Austin continues getting their wires crossed by saying "Jailbreak" was the last episode in the first Stevenbomb (it wasn't; "Full Disclosure" was the final day) and claimed that "Say Uncle" was part of the Stevenbomb (it was not), and then they say some episodes from Season 2 got pushed into Season 2's Stevenbomb (they did not; none of the displaced Season 1 episodes were ever used in a Stevenbomb--they were "Open Book," "Shirt Club," and "Story For Steven," plus "Say Uncle," which all aired on their own days outside of promoted events).

Host Brenda admits they have only seen the first five episodes of SU and they joke about "Frybo" being cursed. The hosts discuss the impact of "Jailbreak" on Tumblr (which they say was perceived as a platform already losing popularity because you could no longer post tits on your blog; that timeline is also skewed because "Jailbreak" aired in 2015 and the "no female-presenting nipples" thing happened in 2018). They talk about the revelation that "the rocks are gay!" and how important this was for queer fans. They discuss the nature of fusion and how it's not really the same as being the components.

Another clip from the interview plays where Rebecca says they had to "get out from under the microscope" before they could show some of the queer content, which is why it was so comparatively late in the show when they started to reveal Garnet's relationship. They knew from working on Adventure Time that same-sex relationships were not allowed to be portrayed. Making this relationship part of the identity of a central character the audience already knows and loves helps ensure that they will get to keep the content.

Austin and Brenda talk about the influence of Steven Universe on the generation that grew up with it, how many queer young people learned how to embrace their identity through the example of the show (and learned other important lessons about friendship). They talk about how awesome the song "Stronger Than You" is and how it was such a great anthem for people who needed it. They talk about Estelle's music video for the song being made at Comic Con in 2017 and how it helped a lot of people who were scared during the first Trump administration.

They discuss how the Cartoon Network bigwigs might have reacted poorly to the interpretation that they'd "broken a rule" and portrayed a same-sex relationship, and how they had to take the chance. Austin claims that they got some pushback and finger-wagging, and that Rebecca rejected the idea that Ruby could be a boy, and that they didn't straight-up say they were a couple and hey, friends could be this close too. (This spin isn't typically how Rebecca talks about their approach to dealing with the criticism from above--the plausible deniability "well they could still be seen as friends!" angle doesn't mesh with other statements Rebecca has made, though Rebecca does sometimes emphasize that they are not "women" but "Gems.")

They suggest that the Steven Universe creators sort of out-manipulated Cartoon Network by sliding this in when Garnet was already so central and they've already made popular content and merch of her, so they wouldn't be able to object to it without risking "losing" one of their best shows. (This also feels a little different from the way they usually frame it too; I've never heard them suggest that they essentially played hardball and tricked them into airing queer content. Usually the way Rebecca tells it, they certainly fought against the bigoted feedback they received, but they did not hold a lot of cards in the situation, and every battle was another possibility that they would lose the show. "I'm a big shot, what're you gonna do about it?" isn't a sentiment I've heard from them.)

Austin brings up international queer stories in animation and how shows like Revolutionary Girl Utena and Sailor Moon featured queer characters long before we were able to do it in mainstream animation in the West. They talk about the international audience for Steven Universe and how Russia in particular was not willing to air queer content, and therefore they dubbed Ruby as a boy. (Author's note: This is actually true, but it's more complicated. Ruby's Russian voice actor is a woman, Larisa Brokhman, and though they did imply she's male by occasionally using the equivalent of he/him pronouns for her in earlier episodes, they mostly dealt with this by avoiding any wording that used pronouns for Ruby at all, followed by cutting and refusing to air every episode where she and Sapphire were flirty. After Russia stopped airing the show entirely, the subsequent episodes began to be dubbed with the correct she/her pronouns for Ruby, but they knew it would not be released publicly inside Russia and would only be available in underground copies. By the way, if anyone believes they edited footage of Ruby to put a mustache on her, that did not ever happen.)

The hosts share some frustration over the fact that the HD version of the song "Stronger Than You" did not come out until around two years after the original was released. The episode cuts to a clip of Ian Jones-Quartey discussing how Cartoon Network didn't do a good job promoting the shows on their network and didn't get around to posting "Stronger Than You" on their YouTube channel for promotion until months afterwards, but in the meantime the Undertale fandom gobbled it up and released a fan version people got addicted to. They discuss how funny it was that the Undertale version was a lot of people's first exposure to the song and some of the fans didn't know it came from SU. We hear another clip from Rebecca Sugar saying how the team backed them up on deciding to take this episode forward, to be who they are and not have Rebecca fighting alone for queer content anymore. Rebecca describes it as a personal turning point. Rebecca really wanted to reach queer kids with the microphone they had.

#steven universe #jailbreak #ruby and sapphire #rebecca sugar #long post #myblog

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itzkingbo · 5 months ago

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butterflies & roses

chapter one.

Stray Kids ot8 x fem!reader

masterlist / next chapter

overview: you are one of their managers. you're tired, overworked, and sad. the last thing you want to do is worry your boys. but they notice everything. and the love and care for you, like you do for them.

word count: 1.8k

contains: cussing, mentions of pain, fluff, nicknames, use of y/n, mental illness

a/n: RAAAHH imma be so honest. this started off as a one shot drabble idea for anon and turned into whatever tf this is. but i love it? i fear ill have to make this a series 😔 lemme know if you wanna be part of the taglist! pookie out 🤪

Sure, you were one of the boys' many managers, but to them you were special. With the DominATE tour right around the corner, all of you were incredibly busy. You worked day in and day out to practically keep 3racha alive in the studio as they finished up any last touches to the solos they'd be revealing on stage.

You had barely gotten any sleep the night before, eyelids heavy with exhaustion as you dressed yourself for another tiresome day at the company. Many things went unnoticed by your usually trained eye. You left your quaint apartment in the sweatpants you had slept in, only mascara, and a coffee cup with only sugar because you forgot to pour it before you left.

Luckily you were smart enough not to drive yourself and settled on taking the bus. Several stops later you were waddling through the front doors of JYPE, one airpod in and a half-crooked smile to the doorman. The elevator ride seemed to take an eternity and you slipped into a daydream against the cold metal railing.

The loud ding snapped you out of it quickly, and you scurried past the other staff members entering the box. With a flushed face, you moved down the hall towards the dance practice studio, then shoved the door open.

Music harassed your ears immediately and you walked over to the counter to set your things down and cover your ears. It made your head pound. You hadn't even noticed your headache until now.

When the music suddenly stopped, you looked up to see Minho staring at you. "Y/n-ah? Are you alright?" His voice was calmer than usual, laced with genuine concern for his favorite manager.

You took in a deep breath and nodded, lowering your hands from your ears. "Just.. a headache. I didn't sleep well last night." You say honestly. This causes Minho to furrow his brows and step closer to you.

It was just you two in the practice room at the moment, as the rest of the boys were usually not this early. His hands move to cup your cheeks, and if they weren't already red, they would be now.

He moved your head around cautiously, looking into your eyes and then moving away to his bag. When he returned, he handed you a few pills. "Medicine. You need to take care of yourself like you take care of us."

You take it with a smile and reach for your cup. When you look down your straw, your brows furrow and you let out a low growl.

"What's wrong now?"

".. I must have been too tired. I didn't even finish making my coffee before I left." You grumble, handing him the cup to see for himself.

A hearty laugh escapes his lips and he sets it down and hands you his water bottle. "Maybe instead of managing you should take a nap in the studio."

This made you scowl, and you took the water and then plopped the pill into your mouth. "I can't afford a nap right now, Minho. There's too much to do and not enough time. The tour is right around the corner."

His snicker didn't go unnoticed and you shot him a glare. "You sound like Channie-hyung." He snorts, moving back to the laptop to finish his warm-up before practice.

When he unpauses the music, you notice he has turned the volume down and your glare softens. The sound of his sneakers squeaking on the floor fills the room as you make your way to the chairs in the corner.

It only takes a few short minutes for the practice room door to bust open, and the loud yapping of the boys makes you flinch at the sharp pain in your temple.

Minho stops completely and faces the boys, hands on his hips. "Hush! Manager-nim has a headache!" He whisper-yells, barely audible over the music.

Chris is quick to jog over to the computer to turn off the music. "Heh!?" Jisung harps, clearly having not heard his elder the first time. A hiss escapes your lips and you bring a hand to your head.

Felix turns to you and his eyes widen. "Oh! Sorry, Y/n.. we'll be quieter." He says, his puppy dog eyes causing your anger to vanish. "She has a headache, Ji. Please be less loud today."

Han's head snaps in your direction with an apologetic look, and he mouths you a quick 'Sorry' before placing his stuff down with everyone else's.

As they begin their warm-up stretches, their fearless leader dares to approach you, hands behind his back like he wants something. "Yes, Chris?" You ask quietly, trying not to upset your head while you wait for the medicine to kick in.

He bends down to your level, hands on your knees. "What time did you sleep last night?"

The question makes your chest tighten. You're HIS manager. The one who scolds HIM for late nights and no self-care. Yet here he was, looking at you like you had spit in his Cheerios.

You look down at your lap, pouting slightly. "Six.." You muttered, and his eyebrow cocks the way it does when he isn't too sure of something. "Y/n."

"Six. In the morning." This time you've said it louder, still refusing to look him in the eye. But he forces you to. He is older after all. "Christ, Y/n. We left the studio together at midnight." He scolded, tone stern yet filled with worry.

You huff and cross your arms. "I know. I just, couldn't sleep." You say, glancing at him from the corner of your eye. There had been so much on your mind lately. The tour, schedules, meetings, family, your boyfriend. Well. Scratch that. Ex-boyfriend. It was a sudden breakup that happened a few days ago. You hadn't had time to process the loss, the now empty bed, and quiet apartment.

Chris stares at you, watching as your eyes water. But before he can say anything, his name is called. "Hyung. C'mon." Hyunjin calls out.

You look down at the man, a small frown painting your features. "We'll talk more later." He says, now standing up after patting one of your knees and walking over to the group.

Throughout the entire practice session, you zoned out every other second. You were either falling asleep or in your head. Time after time, one of the boys would look your way with a frown or walk over to bring you water.

Once they finished up, Chris looked over to see you completely passed out with your head leaned back against the wall. He waved the others on, moved over to you, and tapped your shoulder gently. “Y/n-ah.” His voice was soft, and you hummed in response as your eyes opened slowly.

With a small smile, he grabbed both of your hands and pulled you up to your feet. Your eyes widened at the sudden movement and you grabbed onto him for support. "C'mon sleepy head. Let's go."

He grabbed your things, shouldering your bag after tucking your empty cup away. Then, he slung your arm over his shoulder and his hand found your waste.

Then he lead you out of the practice room, and down the hall to his studio.

When the door creaked open, Jisung's boba eyes met your tired ones. He felt like he could squeeze your adorable little cheeks at that moment, but he resisted and stood up to help you to the couch.

You didn't complain, far too tired to fight them at the moment. The moment your head hit the cushion, you were out like a light. "I'll go fetch her a coffee, keep an eye on her." Chris said, looking over at Jisung as he left the room.

"Yes sir." Han saluted, sitting in his chair and facing the laptop.

Your soft snores filled the room and created a comfortable silence mixed with the clicking of the keyboard and mouse.

Not long later, Chris returned with a few cups of coffee and Changbin behind him with bags. The aroma of something baked instantly flooded your nose and woke you from your nap. You grumbled and turned to face the boys with half-lidded eyes as you rubbed them. "How long was I out for?"

"Literally thirty minutes." Han chuckled, taking his coffee and breakfast. You groaned and sat up straight with a grumpy expression. It softened quickly as you were handed a cup with your name, and a turkey croissant. You licked your lips and bit into it with a satisfied hum.

The three laughed at your excitement for food and took their places in the studio.

The rest of the day was spent working on small projects, as well as the backing track for each solo. Then you were off to your office to finish the week's paperwork. You hadn't even realized how late it had gotten. However, this wasn't the first time you were glued to your chair by 11pm.

A subtle knock on your office door made you jump, and you looked up to see the familiar Aussie face. "Y/n." He greeted before moving over to your desk.

"Chan. What are you still doing here? It's late." You scolded, brows raised at him.

He scoffed and leaned against the wall nearest to him. "Says you. C'mon. You need sleep."

You shake your head and continue typing away. "Can't. I'm not finished yet." "I wasn't asking."

You look up again, stunned at the demanding tone he was using. Frankly, it pissed you off. "I'll leave when I'm done here." You say, tone slightly aggressive.

"You say that now." "Christopher! Get off my ass, would ya?" You didn't mean to snap at him.

"Y/N! Go home! Look at you! This morning you could barely stay awake, you looked exhausted. You're a mess!"

His words caused you to stop what you were doing and look up at him. You bit the inside of your cheek, saved your work, and slammed your laptop shut. "You have no room to talk to me like that." You huffed.

"Maybe not, but at least I'm trying here. You can't work in these conditions."

You began to stuff your things into your bag, then pushed past him out of your office. "Fuck sake. Leave me alone."

"What is wrong with you!? Why are you acting like this, Y/n?" He begged, following after you like a lost puppy.

You ignored him and kept walking. "Answer me."

"Nothing! Nothing is wrong, Bangchan! I'm just fucking tired!" You snapped again. You stopped walking and looked at him. That's when he realized you had tears running down your face, brows furrowed angrily.

You weren't mad at him. Your tears weren't angry. They were sad. He noticed the bags under your eyes. How much thinner and pale you looked. Your hair was greasy and tangled, very much unkempt like the rest of you. Why hadn't he noticed sooner?

"Oh. Y/N." He reached out to touch your cheek, but you flinched and turned away. "I'm just tired."

With that, you hurried away from him and left the company building.

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zeroeightzeroone · 1 year ago

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homesick - han jisung

love collection

genre: hurt/comfort

pairings: fem!reader (infp) x idol!han jisung (istp)

warnings: none?

wc ~3.7k | moodboard

｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ ｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ ｡｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:

you miss your boyfriend–you miss him a lot.

how could you not?

all you have wanted to do for the past couple of weeks is throw your arms around jisung and hold him close. you want to keep your boyfriend so tightly against your chest that you're encapsulated by the warmth radiating off his body, the warmth that never fails to comfort you, resting your head against his chest to listen to how his heart beats in tandem with your own. you miss the physical closeness with jisung.

stray kids has been on tour since late april this year, and the last leg of the tour is expected to end early april next year. while that's quite a long time for the boys to be away, they'd be back in asia in late july and on a break until the tour kicks back up in early september. it's currently the beginning of july.

thankfully, you weren't taking any summer courses. through the grace of whatever higher power there is up there, you managed to convince your boss to let you work remotely so you could join jisung and the boys for two weeks during the japanese leg of their tour back at the beginning of june.

you loved watching jisung perform. seeing him firsthand from the crowd, in his element when he's on stage, performing his art and perfecting his craft, makes your heart lurch; you fall for the man all over again, watching him up there. seeing it firsthand is completely different from watching videos of him–you can feel the energy radiating off him when he's up there.

at the end of those two weeks, you and the boys ended up in the same place: the airport. you were boarding a plane back to seoul, and they were boarding a plane to their first tour stop in america. due to the influx of reporters and fans waiting at narita international airport, your goodbyes to the boys and their staff had to be in the hotel, inside your rooms, hours before checkout time.

knock, knock, knock.

"come in!" you call whoever is on the other side of the door; if it's any of the boys, then they will be accompanied by jisung, who has the extra room key for your room.

you grunt in a squatting position as you move your luggage from laying on the ground, on its back, to standing upright on its wheels. you hear the keycard machine beep from the other side of the door in confirmation as you're hunched over, wheeling your luggage up against the wall before standing up straight and rubbing your palms against your jeans. you watch as the front door opens to reveal the eight boys, jisung in front, holding the keycard to your hotel room. behind them, the managers and some guards come into the room with them, but the bodyguards stay outside.

"y/n!" felix whines with a pout as he pushes forward, running to you and enveloping you in his arms, "fly safe, okay?"

you pat the freckled boy's back appreciatively as you nod.

"make sure you text ji when you land, okay?"

"i will, but you guys will still be in the air when he gets that message."

felix pulls away, his hands on your shoulders as he looks at you, "still, it's the thought that counts." you smile and giggle at felix, who moves aside for the next couple of members to say their goodbyes to you.

your exchanges with jeongin, minho and changbin are on the shorter side; brief hugs with jeongin and changbin, who thank you for coming to support them in concert, meanwhile minho gives you a half hug and pats your head as he bids you farewell, thanking you for taking two weeks out of the many months jisung will spend talking about how much he'll miss you.

meanwhile, hyunjin, chan and seungmin's hugs last a little longer when you're swayed around a little bit and told to be safe, get a lot of rest on the plane and not miss them too much. chan lets you know that if there is any other time you're going to be free when they're on tour, let them know, and they'll arrange everything for you–from the plane tickets to where you're staying–anything at all.

seungmin, the member you're closest to after your boyfriend, whispers in your ear quietly to ensure it's kept between the two of you: "i know you're going to ask me to take care of jisung for you, so don't worry about that. don't worry about hannie; we all got him."

the reassurance brings a smile to your face, and your grip on seungmin gets tighter in appreciation. the boy sways your bodies back and forth, patting your back when you separate. when he pulls away, he steps aside to reveal your boyfriend standing there with a pout, his big, brown eyes glossy as tears build up at his waterline. you have to bite your lip to keep from sobbing.

you were already feeling on the verge of tears when felix came rushing in and pulled you into a hug. chan's words about arranging anything and everything if you're free, then seungmin assuring you that they'll look out for your boyfriend while on tour and now, here's your boyfriend, your hannie, your jisung, looking at you with teary eyes.

you open your arms and jisung runs into them, prompting you to take a step back at the sudden impact, but jisung's tight grip around your waist protects you from any chance of falling backward. jisung buries his face in the crook of your neck while your arms are wrapped around his neck, your chin resting on his shoulder as your eyes are squeezed shut. your grip on each other is tight, knowing that once either of you lets go, the next time you'll be in each other's arms is in two months.

jisung lets a choked whimper slip out that he tries to hide with a cough. you smack his back gently, "ya!"

you clear your throat, trying your best to stay composed and stern as you utter the next words.

"if you cry, i'm going to cry too!" your voice cracks and trembles as you speak.

"i'm not crying," he denies. though his voice is muffled from his head buried in the crook of your neck, you can clearly hear that it's softer than usual, shaky, and uneasy.

you let out a pained laugh, "liar." the tears flow down your cheeks as you hold him even tighter.

"i'm not lying!" jisung continues to deny. he lifts his head up from your neck, and you stand there, still in each other's arms, looking at each other, "see."

what you see is how jisung's cheeks are flushed, wet with tears that probably fell and landed on the fabric of the hoodie you're wearing, his lashes clumped together with tears as he tries to keep his lips pursed together when they're trembling and threatening to go back to that pout. on the other hand, your tears are freely falling as you stare up at your boyfriend through your fluttering lids, mouth opening and closing as you breathe heavily through your pouted lips, cheeks also flushed and damp. you smack his chest.

"what?" he whines.

you open your mouth to laugh at him, but instead, a sob comes out. you fall back into his arms and bury your face into his chest as you cry.

"look who's crying now," jisung retorts as his arms move around your body again, holding you close. one hand rests on the small of your back while the other caresses your hair.

"yeah, the both of you," minho teases and jisung glares at the boy, but the older one just smiles back.

the rest of the boys watch the exchange between you and jisung with a slight ache in their chests as they remember how hard it was to say goodbye to their friends and family before leaving. chan looks around and he gathers everyone to leave, wanting to give you and jisung a minute alone to say your goodbyes before the driver takes you to the airport.

pulling away, jisung moves his hands to your face and brushes your hair back, some strands sticking to your skin because of tears as you hiccup. even when your hair is out of your face, he continues to stroke your hair back while the other hand is on your cheek, gently caressing the skin with the pad of his thumb. the two of you stare up at each other, sniffling.

"i love you," jisung whispers, his voice hoarse from crying.

you nod, sniffling and hiccuping in return, "i love you too."

jisung smiles down at you, "hey, i'll be back before you know it."

your eyelids flutter as you blink quickly, and your hands play with the back of the sweatshirt jisung is wearing.

"i'll text you everyday," he reminds, "i'll call you as much as i can, and as much our schedules and the time zones allow for."

you sigh shakily, "i'm gonna miss you so much."

"i'm going to miss you so much too, my love," jisung brushes your hair back again, "god, i wish i could just take you with me. two months away from you? that's too long."

you snicker, nodding in agreement, "i do too. but hey, i'll get to see so many videos of you taken by stay, doing your thing on stage."

your boyfriend smiles, gazing down at you lovingly.

"i'm so proud of you. look at you," you sigh, lips curled up in a smile, "my boyfriend is going on a world tour."

"do you know what that means?" you tilt your head in confusion, "souvenirs from every stop that remind me of you!"

since he left, both of you have been sending texts daily and video calls whenever your schedules permit it and when the time zones line up enough so it isn't too early or too late for either of you.

sometimes your calls only prompt you to miss jisung even more, wishing he was next to you and that his voice wasn't just coming through a device while he's on the other side of the world, but the distance also means you continue to long for the day jisung comes home. you know his parents long for that day as well, his mother sending you texts every couple of days asking when you're free so you can go out together. as jisung likes to put it–spending time with her future daughter-in-law.

however, as the number of days away from jisung increases, the number of days before jisung returns also decreases. with that in mind, you try to stay positive and look forward to the day he comes home.

now that the boys are in america, they've been quite busy rehearsing, checking and then rechecking their formations and any technical details that could go wrong during the concerts, the process repeating at each venue as they sync up their equipment with the new venues. their team organizing and making sure everything is okay with the venue and other organizers. as a result, jisung has been too busy to call late at night as he passes out the moment he's in his hotel room from the venue, then waking up a couple hours later to hop on a flight to the next destination.

he sends you texts here and there throughout his day, sending random photos of himself and the members during rehearsals or before and after the show. on jisung's end, he sent a text over when he landed early in the morning, saying he could probably hop on a call quickly when he gets to the hotel, seeing as they're going to be in inglewood for a little over a week for two shows instead of one. you were about to leave work when the message came through. going home for the evening when the message reminded you of your phone call with jisung's mother.

"hello, eomeonim (mother-in-law)," you greet when the line connects.

"y/n, myeoneuri (daughter-in-law)," she speaks into the phone, her tone sweet as usual. she doesn't say anything for a moment before speaking, "is this a bad time? you don't sound like you're at home?"

"ah, sorry eomeonim," you apologize, "i just got off the bus, but i'm on the way home now. but don't worry, i can talk if you need me."

"ah okay, i won't keep you too long then, myeoneuri," she assures before continuing, "have you spoken to jisung on the phone recently?"

you hum as you think, "I think it's been a couple of days since our last phone call; why? is he okay?"

you hear jisung's mother sigh on the other end of the line, "i'm a little worried, if i'm honest," you hum in acknowledgment and she continues, "he sounded quite down on our phone call yesterday and the day before. he told me not to worry when i asked… i know this might be a lot, but would you mind talking to him? if it's you, he'll open up more–at least, he'll have talked about what's on his mind."

"yeah, yeah, of course," you agree, "i'll see if we can call tonight, and i'll check up on him, see how he's doing, eomeonim. don't worry too much, i'm sure ji is okay!"

she chuckles on the other end, "ah, you sound just like him, y/n. don't tell him i sent you!"

you laugh in response to her rushed addition at the end of her statement: "i won't say anything," she sighs in relief, "was there anything else you were curious about?"

she hums, "nothing else, thank you so much, myeoneuri. i'll see you on the weekend, okay? come over whenever you want! the door is always open for you!"

your cheeks flush in embarrassment as you smile, "thank you, i'll see you in a couple of days. bye eomeonim!"

"goodbye, myeoneuri! get home safely. i love you," she bids her farewells, which you exchange right back with her before she hangs up the call.

thinking back to that conversation, you wonder what worried jisung's mother about him; was it how he spoke? his tone? the words he used? was he quite active in the conversation, or did he seem more passive? you wonder what exactly she meant by jisung sounding quite down, but you guess you'll figure it out when he calls you in the morning.

it's around eight in the morning when your phone rings from the bedside table. yunjin should already be awake and ready for work, so the ringer volume doesn't wake anyone up except you. you roll around, feeling around the bedside table for the device. you accept his call quickly and place the phone to your ear.

a deep yawn leaves your lips before you say, "ji baby?"

you hear him hum in acknowledgment on the other end before he replies, "yeah, baby, it's me." a sleepy smile forms on your lips at the sound of his voice. " did I wake you?"

you groan softly as you flick the lamp on, the sudden brightness causing you to squint, "yes but i don't mind. i just wanna hear your voice. are you back at the hotel now?"

"yeah, we got back a while ago. i just wanted to be ready for bed before calling; this way i can fall asleep while you're on the line," jisung explains, and you feel your cheeks heat up at his sentiments.

he continues to talk about what they did today. you're gradually more awake and more attentive as the minutes pass, so eventually, you realize what jisung's mother was referring to when it sounded like he's been down. jisung is speaking monotone, his voice softer, and when he speaks, it sounds like his mind is elsewhere.

when he's finished, you decide to segway into that conversation, "how are you feeling?"

he pauses for a moment, taken aback before he shrugs, "i'm tired, it's been a long day of rehearsal. what about you? how are you feeling?"

"i'm doing good, i'm hearing your voice, so i'm doing great," you answer quickly before he tries to shift the conversation to you, "are you physically tired or?"

jisung is lying in bed as he speaks to you, looking up at the ceiling and thinking of his replies, "yeah. dancing and all."

"emotionally?"

"emotionally?" he repeats to which you confirm, "i mean… i'm okay–better now since i'm hearing your voice after a couple of days… it's been a busy last couple of days."

you nod, running a hand through your tangled hair as you listen to jisung on the other end. his tone is still distracted as his words graze over how he's feeling, avoiding delving deeper into it. realizing that maybe he isn't ready to delve deeper into his emotions, you allow him to shift the conversation to your life and what you've been up to while he's been on tour–asking you how work has been and if anything new has occurred. you answer jisung honestly; there is nothing new at work as it's the same job you've had since getting into university; the only new events would be the lunch you have on the weekend with jisung's mother, aunt and grandmother.

the latter part of your updates brings a smile to jisung's lips, his heart warming at the thought of the most important women in his life spending quality time together. but at the same time, hearing your updates about your life back at home, no matter how small you think they are or if they're the same things that always happen, has jisung's chest aching in a completely different way.

"ji?" you call, not hearing anything coming from his end, "did you fall asleep?" you pause to listen, to survey whether or not you hear soft snores or heavy breathing that indicate that he is indeed asleep.

instead, jisung responds after a couple of moments, "i'm still here. i'm awake."

"are you okay?" you wonder, "if you're tired then i can go–"

"no, don't go," he quickly interrupts, "sorry."

"don't apologize, i just wanna make sure you're okay," you reassure, and you hear him hum in acknowledgment.

"i miss you," he declares softly, his voice solemn as he speaks.

"i miss you too, ji," you sigh, instinctively clutching the pillow closer to your chest.

the boy on the other end ponders for a moment before continuing, "i miss you a lot. i don't really know how to explain it," jisung blinks up at the ceiling, "i miss you all the time, but when we get back to the hotel or when i'm not performing, i miss you even more."

jisung's eyebrows knit in frustration as he continues to explain himself.

"i love being on stage, i love performing," he states, "i can't explain how i feel when i'm performing either, but… there's a feeling of contentment or fullness? i don't know… i just know i love to be up there. but…"

"but?" you encourage him to continue as his words trail off.

"but when i get back to the hotel, or when it's all over, i feel tired: the adrenaline doesn't last as long as it usually does. but even though i'm tired, it's hard to fall asleep."

you aren't sure where to place jisung's words, unsure if you've ever felt the way he's been feeling lately, uncertain if you can relate, but at the least, you want to understand and reassure him that you're there.

"there's a feeling of emptiness that kinda just sits there when i'm not on stage," his voice is softer when he says the word 'emptiness' like it's a fragile word, one he's unsure of, "i wasn't sure what it was before but listening to you talk started to help me realize what caused the emptiness."

"something i said helped you realize?" you repeat for clarification.

"yeah, listening to you talk about home, work, the local cafes, the conversations you have with my mom–just everything about your life at home," jisung lists, "i'm feeling homesick."

your lips part in awe when the last word leaves his mouth, the singular word allowing you to reconceptualize what he said previously and gain a greater understanding.

"i tried my best to distract myself and rehearse more to combat those feelings of emptiness but nothing seemed to work; it just stuck there. listening to you helped combat some of my homesickness but…"

"but it's still there," you finish his sentence, and he agrees with a sigh.

"i love being onstage, i feel so alive when i'm up there," now, when jisung speaks, his tone is clearer, and his thoughts are clearer, the way he's speaking signalling that instead of being lost in his own thoughts he's got both feet on the ground and he's working through them, "but i miss home so much. god… i miss you so damn much."

you smile sadly when you hear him sniffle.

"i miss my bed at the dorms, the air fryer at the dorms that we don't even use. i miss the smell of your laundry detergent and shampoo, i miss being in your arms, and you playing with my hair. i miss being at home."

jisung cries softly as he speaks, sniffling and continuing to list off the things that he misses at home. it brings tears to your eyes; using your comforter to dab the tears off your face.

"hey…" you call into the phone, "would it help if i sent little voice messages throughout the day so you could hear my voice? i can send pictures of things you love here too? just a couple more weeks, and you'll be here, and i'll hold you so tightly you get sick of me."

"i'll never be sick of being in your arms," he remarks, "and if it isn't too much, i would love that, all of it." jisung smiles at your suggestions, appreciative of you and your ideas to help him combat his homesickness until he's back in seoul.

"i'll try my best."

"baby?" he coos, prompting a soft response from you, "do you think we can video call? i wanna see your face before i sleep. can you stay until i fall asleep?"

your cheeks heat up from your boyfriend's suggestion, and your heart feels giddy at seeing his face for a couple of minutes before he falls asleep. " of course, baby."

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fmajorenthusiast · 24 days ago

Note

I remember you mentioning at some point that you liked Repo! The Genetic opera...

How do you think characters from RHPS would interact with Repo characters?

OMG TYSM YES I AM A REPO FAN I LOVE THIS SO MUCH 2RFIRD22IRDO3D

Frank: First of all, Frank tries to fuck every adult in the show! He fails pretty badly however! Amber Sweet definitely screws him and maybe Graves as well, but I even think that Graves would probably pass on it! Frank is pissed! I feel like he'd either be best friends with Amber Sweet or they'd get in MASSIVE fights over who gets to be in the spotlight!!! They both want that damn stage!!! Also, I think that he confuses Rotti just a little bit too much to make Rotti think of getting Nathan in on the action. Plus, the outcomes of attempting to Repo Man Frank could have some pretty devastating consequences no matter who wins! Safe to say, that's not an option! I feel like he'd also steal Shilo's meds just to see if they get him high and in doing so discover the mystery/reveal the plot twist to everybody and would feel like shit himself for a little while until they wear off! Basically, he wouldn't really be able to rise to stardom in the way that he wants to, but he'd DEFINITELY make an impact on all of these people!!! And it'd be amazing!!!

Brad: I feel like everyone who's got enough of a moral conscious in Repo would take one look at Brad and be like, "Alright, I guess we have to protect this one." With the combined forces of Graves, Shilo, and Mag, he'll probably be fine! In his wise age of early 20s he tries to impart wisdom on Shilo and doesn't do a fantastic job of it!!! He's literally still her peer at this point!!! He'd also be absolutely fucking TERRIFIED of Luigi. Like, out of his MIND scared of Luigi. He'd learn his name, say something along the lines of, "Ah! Like the Mario character!" And do a little impression of Luigi from Mario, given that Repo Luigi doesn't know Mario, he's going to hear an Italian accent and think "He's telling me that I'm like Pavi and mocking me!" And go STRAIGHT for the throat!!!! This results in Graves needing to fight off Luigi! All in all, Brad is adorable and scared and it is in fact a high order to keep him alive!!! It's worth it, though, because he really is that awesome!!!

Janet: I feel like Janet would be the most afraid of Pavi. She'd just find him offputting and very much run away!!! She's also in need of some pretty big protection!!! Her and Shilo get along really well and shockingly relate to each other on certain aspects of their lives a whole lot!!! They've both been "good" and compliant all of their lives only to realize how painful that compliance actually is! They're quite different, but they're also the same!!! Also, Janet would fully adore Mag!!! She'd find her to be so warm and kind and exactly what she needs in this situation!!!! She'd also love to hear her sing!!! I feel like those two would be the only two people that Janet genuinely really likes in Repo! I think that the rest would scare her a bit! Though she'd probably warm up to Graves after a while and find him to be pretty hot actually!!! He'd kind of develop into a hero figure for her, and who can blame her? He's amazing!!!

Riff Raff: As Janet fears Pavi, Pavi fears Riff. Pavi is like... actually terrified of Riff and his capabilities! On the other hand, Luigi would be like, "I can take that freak!" And then very much not be able to take that Freak! I feel like he'd get along with Shilo pretty well and relate to her feeling of being controlled! Also I think that he and Graves would definitely do LOTS of drugs with each other!!!! I can picture Rotti getting really upset that there may be a scientific genius in his midst and considering getting Nathan to go after him and then Riff finding out, laughing his ass off, finding some kind of news platform, and calmly announcing to the public that if he gets Repo-Man'd, there's gonna be a MASSIVE recall that's gonna wreck the company! He'd go on to list every drug that he regularly takes and how frequently and then go on to list every brand and kind of alcohol that he regularly drinks and how frequently!!! He'd then go on to state how massive the biological sex drive levels are for Transylvanians and finally say, "simply put, you'll be getting nothing other than drugged up libido with my organs," and then fully disconnecting. It then becomes impossible for the business to get him without risking the fuck out of the business and therefore he's safe because he's that much of an icon! He really is!

Magenta: Similarly to Frank, I can't tell if Magenta and Amber would be best friends or if them knowing each other would result in murder!!!! I feel like them knowing each other would be a MASSIVE Pandora's Box from the get-go! They could either have massive fun or this could cause an explosion!!! It's all a matter of whether Magenta winds up feeling the need to laugh with her or laugh at her!! I feel like Magenta would find Shilo to be amusing!!! She'd think it's kinda cute the way that she does things!!! She wouldn't dislike her at all, but she'd be lying if she said that she wasn't pretty damn amused by people who struggle with a kind of shyness or uncertainty like Janet and Shilo do!!! I feel like her and Graves would be pretty good friends and I feel like she'd want to set Pavi on fire from the minute that she lays her eyes on him!!! I feel like she'd somehow find out that Nathan is the Repo Man and actually laugh at that fact. She'd then remind him that her brother has a lazer and that hurting her would be a massive mistake! She'd then leave laughing and absolutely dying to tell Riff and Columbia this shit! She's smart enough to know that Nathan and Shilo love each other and that no matter what happens, they'll know that in the end! So she isn't to concerned, and hey, she turns out to be right!!!

Columbia: I feel like Columbia's got some songs written, and I feel like she would love to teach them to Shilo and sing them with Shilo!!! I feel like it'd be one big massive singing party with Columbia, Shilo, Mag, and Eddie!!! She'd also be friends with Graves and I feel like she'd fit in really well with the more upbeat people in the show!!! Shilo would really love her energy and Graves would appreciate what a good time she is!!! I feel like Nathan would kinda see her as a "bad influence" but he isn't about ready to Repo Man her!!!! She'd also have a little contest just for fun to see who can sing higher and who can break a wine glass the easiest!!! They both tie pretty easily and turns out that Eddie can also break a wine glass! That turns out to be incredible and Shilo loves the excitement!!! I also think that Pavi would have a bit of a crush on her for some reason but unfortunately for Pavi Columbia does in fact have a husband in possession of a switchblade knife and so he does not get to shoot his shot! Columbia has an amazing time and doesn't interact too much with the people that she doesn't think she'd get along with too well!!! She's a lot happier that way, and that's really really happy!!!

Rocky: Rocky is not to be left unsupervised in this environment under any circumstances!!! Mag is the one who's mainly responsible for his protection as she is objectively the one who's fully up to the task!!!! Graves is fully able to handle a teenager but he'd really have no idea what to do with a baby!!! Everyone is doing their best to not let word of who he really is get out because the organ market would go APESHIT for his insides and he is NOT to be harmed!!! He'd confuse Shilo a bit before she learns who he is, but then she'd find him really charming!!!! And he'd love his time spent with Mag so much!!! She'd sing him lullabies and he'd tell her that she sings like an angel!.... of music! Ba dum tss! He'd also just be in awe of all the lights and city life!!! It's like nothing he's ever seen before and he's allowed to see loads of it up close so long as he holds Mag's hand!!! He objectively has no clue about any of the drama going on and therefore FULLY loves the experience!!! Rocky has an amazing time and would come back to visit again so fast!!!!

Eddie: Eddie would also go apeshit for all of the music and he'd find a way to get on that stage as well singing some epic trio with Columbia and Mag!!!! He and Graves would also go crazy together!!! I feel like he and Pavi and Luigi could all have massive fights to the death as well!!! Shilo would think that he's kinda cool, but she'd definitely keep her distance!!! By one way or another, Eddie definitely winds up getting Nathan after him, and at some point it definitely comes out that he has been cut wide open before!!! This leads to an incredible conversation between Eddie and Nathan in which Nathan learns the truth! "Your organs..." "Oh yeah! Frank ate them!" "..." It is at this point that Nathan is in a pure state of too much shock in order to do anything and Eddie is able to walk away unscathed! Nathan is afraid to look at him now and he's also afraid to look at Frank! Eddie goes down in history as a name that Nathan Wallace will never forget! Nathan lies awake thinking about those words! He really does!!!

Doctor Scott: Doctor Scott would be really frustrated with the legal decisions of everybody in this show!!! Like, yes, your children don't deserve the business, but you also can't put that on a 17 year old child!!! He'd also just refuse to interact with any of the Largo kids and he'd keep interaction with Rotti down to the bare minimum!!! I think that he'd find Shilo to be really bright and he'd like her a whole lot!!! I feel like he'd adore Mag as well and he'd find her to be so kind and caring!!! He wouldn't have any interest in Graves or the drug community at all!!! He'd appreciate Mag's music a whole lot, though that's the only kind of music in the show that he'd have a real love for!!! All in all, Shilo is the highlight for Doctor Scott!!! There's nothing that he loves more than to meet a bright and lovely child!!!! And he's valid for that!!!

The Criminologist: You cannot convince me that he wouldn't immediately look at Pavi's face and go "fascinating!!!" While attempting to study it!!! He'd also probably just try and get all of the information in the WORLD out of everybody!!! It would be a reprise of Zydrate Anatomy except he's writing all that shit down at RECORD speed!!! Not to try it, but because he's INCREDIBLY interested in all of this!!! He would purchase every notebook in the store prior to this visit and end it having filled up ALL of them!!! He's so interested in all of this and he loves it so much!!! He'd probably wind up figuring out that Nathan was the Repo Man really easily and he'd also try and win Amber's face at the end but then lose to Pavi!!! (He wasn't one of the top three who died his plot armor fully protects him there!!!) But oh well!!! He has an INCREDIBLE time and is so thankful to everyone for giving him all their knowledge!!! He adores it so much!!!

#TYSM FOR THE REQUESTTT!!!!#everyone please send more!!!#rocky horror #rocky horror picture show #rocky horror show #richard o'brien #riff raff #frank n furter #brad majors #janet weiss #magenta rocky horror #columbia rocky horror #rocky rocky horror #eddie rocky horror #doctor scott #the criminologist rocky horror #rhps

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pjsk-story-summaries · 8 months ago

Text

Our Happy Ending Event Story Summary

TL;DR: In an attempt to keep Phoenix Wonderland happy and allow the troupe to follow their dreams, Rui proposes that Wonderlands x Showtime becomes a freelance troupe to Shosuke and Keisuke. After getting tentative approval as long as they perform one more show at Phoenix Wonderland, he tells the troupe. Tsukasa and Nene are immediately on board, but despite their insistence, Emu affirms her decision to stay at the Wonder Stage.

Though they all try to stay positive, they're all saddened by the fact this will be the end. They decide to put on The Tale of the Traveling Troupe. The Virtual Singers decide to put on their own version of the show to cheer them up.

Emu reads over her script, saddened by original ending of staying together forever. Hinata comes by and notices her sorrow. Emu tells her that she has to stay behind, because this stage was where she fell in love with shows with Grandpa. She wants to see her friends off with a smile.

The next day, the Virtual Singers invite the troupe over to watch the show. Emu, worried the others will be concerned by her red eyes, has MEIKO lend her the Mikudayo costume to hide behind. Though the show's ending changed to have the three leave but return once their dreams came true, Emu still found herself near tears.

After rehearsal, Emu stays behind to wait for her brothers. She starts crying once she's alone. Nene had forgotten her phone back at the stage, so Tsukasa and Rui follow her. They find Emu there, sobbing. Nene yells at her for trying to hide her feelings, and Tsukasa declares that while he understands Emu's wish to see them all leave with a smile, it's okay to cry now. They all end up teasing and crying together.

The Otori brothers arrive shortly after. They tell Emu to leave with her friends. She should go see the world and learn all about it, so she can bring what she's found back with her. It's what Grandpa had told them to do, after all. The stage will be fine, because her selfish wish to protect it is no longer her own. Emu decides to follow her friends.

The final show is a huge success. As a parting gift, Shosuke gives them contact information for three potential troupes to mentor with, as well as a promise to always be allowed to perform at the Wonder Stage.

Fan translation (WxS Translation Team) / Song (Kirapipi★Kirapika) 2DMV

Chapter 1: Emu finds her brothers going over attendance statistics for the park. She's pleased to find the numbers increasing, and that people liked the 30th Anniversary show she put on with the Phoenix Stage earlier. Her friends put so much into that performance, and it paid off. However, she and her brothers recognize the time for goodbyes may soon be approaching. The thought makes Emu sad, but she wants to see her friends off with a smile.

Emu brought the survey results to the Wonder Stage. The rest of the troupe is glad to see such positive reactions, and how much it forced them to grow as actors. Tsukasa reveals how he had asked for more ambassadorial experiences after the ArcLand performance, and that despite the rejection, it was what landed them this performance. Tsukasa and Nene want to keep finding ways to gain new experiences. Emu wants to support them, but Rui's having a hard time deciding. He announces that he'll be leaving practice early that day.

Chapter 2: Rui secretly went to the Otori household to discuss the troupe's future with Keisuke and Shosuke. He proposes that Wonderlands x Showtime becomes a freelance troupe so Tsukasa and Nene can keep learning as actors in different places, but they'd still be able to support the park by performing there occasionally. He also asks permission to ask Emu to come along.

Keisuke points out the issues providing this special treatment could bring to the park, and is hesitant about letting Emu go. Rui insists, and they cave. Keisuke decides to consider the proposal.

Chapter 3: Rui proposes the freelance idea to the troupe. Tsukasa and Nene are excited about the possibility, but Emu knows she's going to stay here no matter what. Rui understands this, but still asks again. She'd still be able to make people smile while traveling, after all. She refuses again. She will protect this place Grandpa loved so much.

Later, Nene asks if there's anything they can do to convince Emu to come with them. If Emu isn't with them, then it's no longer Wonderlands x Showtime. Tsukasa's near tears about the ordeal. Rui receives a call from the brothers officially accepting their freelance proposal.

Chapter 4: Rui goes over to the Otori household to discuss specifics. Rui reveals Emu declined the offer, so the brothers will create three contracts. They also ask if the troupe would stay to put on one final show for the park's upcoming anniversary. Rui knows his troupe will agree. It will be the last show they ever do together.

They all discuss the plan in SEKAI. Emu realizes how sad everyone seems to be, despite the fortunate opportunity. She decides to make sure everyone leaves with a smile and proposes they do the tale of the traveling troupe. Everyone agrees. She's glad they're all smiling now.

Rui hesitates a moment before exiting the SEKAI. The Virtual Singers notice how sad he looks. This show was made for him, after all, and the ending is about them all performing shows together forever. MEIKO proposes doing a show to cheer them up- their own rendition of the tale, but with a changed happy ending.

Chapter 5: Emu reads her script alone in her room. The ending makes her remember how happy she was to finally have a troupe way back when. She has to keep smiling so they don't worry.

Hinata stops by to offer some extra hot chocolate. She notices Emu's hidden sadness. Emu talks to her about her conflict. She still hasn't changed her mind.

Emu remembers back to a childhood memory. Grandpa had taken her to see her first show at the Wonder Stage. Emu fell in love with shows then. Grandpa explains how shows have the power to take you to any wonderland, and that this place will always make her smile. The real world isn't full of smiles all the time, but shows can drive her to change that.

That's why she can't leave this place. She will see her friends leave with a smile.

Hinata goes downstairs to talk to her brothers. She reveals how sad Emu really is about this. They don't want to intervene in the troupe's business, but they want to see Emu smile more.

Chapter 6: Emu arrives at the Wonder Stage first. She's worried the others will worry about how red her eyes are. MEIKO pops in to ask if she'd get them all to go to SEKAI to watch a special show. Emu asks if she can go early to hide her red eyes.

The others arrive to find Emu wearing the Mikudayo costume. Though confused, they go watch the show. The ending changed from "making shows together forever" to recognizing each of their individual dreams. Though they separated ways, they'll come back to perform again together someday.

Emu's happy about this ending. Still, she can't stop herself from crying. She hides her emotions behind the mascot costume and a cheery voice.

Chapter 7: After rehearsal, Emu stays behind to clean the stage. She's happy to see all her friends leave so happy. She can't stop herself from crying once she's alone. Emu remembers some important moments in their troupe's history- meeting Tsukasa, then Nene and Rui, the Halloween show, and the island, and Project Wonder. It only makes her sob more.

Rui, Nene, and Tsukasa are touched by the Virtual Singer's show, but concerned over Emu. They know she tends to hide her true emotions. Nene realizes she left her phone at the Wonder Stage, so they all turn back.

Rui hears Emu crying near the stage. Nene runs over. Emu tries to deny that's she's crying, but Nene yells at her for trying to hide it from all of them. If she's going to cry, they'll all do it together. Emu wants them to all be smiling when they have to say goodbye. Tsukasa jumps into his introduction speech before explaining that he shares Emu's wish to see them all smile. Still, they're allowed to be sad right now. He immediately starts crying. Emu laughs and calls his face silly, to which he teases her back. Nene comments how she meant for this to be serious but now it's ridiculous. Rui says it's just like them before crying himself.

Shosuke and Keisuke arrive at the stage. They had been looking for Emu, but feel the need to say this to everybody. Though they wanted to support whatever Emu decided, they realized this isn't for the best. They want her to go. She's just a kid. She should be exploring the world, learning about it to bring the dreams back to the park. They had done the same, after all. Grandpa told them to. Besides, the dream to protect the Wonder Stage isn't just her own selfish wish anymore.

Keisuke appreciates Rui's concern over the park, but tells him not to worry about that anymore. They've done so much for the park, this is the least they can do. The Wonder Stage will always be open to them.

Tsukasa, Rui, and Nene ask if Emu would follow them one more time. She says yes.

Chapter 8: The day of their final performance as Phoenix Wonderland employees arrives. They changed the ending for their show, too. Seiyurin, playing the village elder's daughter, tells the troupe to go out and see the world together, bringing smiles wherever they go. The village will be fine while they're gone.

At the finale of the show, Emu overhears a little girl telling her grandpa how much she loved the show. The crowd was filled with smiling faces.

After the show, the troupe discusses how well their send-off went. The others stages promised to put on shows here while they're gone, something they're all grateful for. As a parting gift, Shosuke gives them contact information for three groups willing to mentor them. The troupe says one last goodbye to the Wonder Stage before ending with a big "wonderhoy!"

#wonderlands x showtime #unit story #arc ender #otori emu #tenma tsukasa #kusanagi nene #kamishiro rui #wxs meiko #otori keisuke #otori shosuke #otori hinata #otori rakunosuke #seiyurin sakurako #hi btw rui ended up aimlessly wandering to the wonder stage after the meeting despite the fact he was supposed to go home #maybe this is me overthinking things as a rui oshi but AAAAAA???!?!? his friends are everything to him........#also sorry this is so long this is my second favorite event in the game #the autistic to infodump and the likes

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delusionalfanficwriter · 2 years ago

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diabetic

Dr. Elena Rodriguez was in the midst of a whirlwind since she started dating Maya Bishop and Carina DeLuca. Their connection was intense and passionate, but they were still in the early stages of their relationship. Elena had been keeping a significant secret from her new partners—she was diabetic. She'd hidden it carefully but as they spent more time together, it got harder to conceal.

They worked together at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, and their personal lives were intertwined. Keeping her diabetes a secret was becoming increasingly challenging, especially during shared meals and late-night chats. Elena's blood sugar levels would often play tricks on her, leaving her feeling unwell, but she had become a pro at hiding it. One evening, after a particularly long day at the hospital, Elena joined Maya and Carina for dinner at their place. She'd been unusually tired all day but brushed it off, not wanting to burden her partners with her health issues. As they sat down to eat, Elena's hands shook a bit, and her vision blurred for a moment.

Maya noticed Elena's unease and exchanged a concerned look with Carina. They'd both noticed that something wasn't right with Elena, but neither wanted to pry.

"Elena, are you okay?" Carina asked gently.

Elena tried to put on a brave face with a weak smile. "I'm fine, really."

But her voice wavered, and her hands trembled as she attempted to eat. Carina reached out to touch Elena's hand, her concern deepening.

"Elena, you don't look fine," Maya added, her worry evident.

Elena's resistance began to crumble as she realized how much her condition was affecting her partners. She took a deep breath and decided it was time to spill the beans. "Okay, okay, I need to tell you something."

Maya and Carina exchanged a worried look before giving Elena their full attention.

"I have diabetes," Elena confessed, her voice filled with vulnerability. "I've been trying to hide it from you both, but I can't anymore. I've been managing it, but today, it's really acting up." Maya and Carina felt a mix of emotions—concern for Elena's health and relief that she had finally shared her secret. They immediately jumped into action, offering their support. "Let's check your blood sugar," Maya said, grabbing a testing kit.

Carina held Elena's hand reassuringly. "We're here for you, Elena. Thank you for sharing this with us."

As Maya returned with the testing kit and helped Elena check her blood sugar levels, they discovered they were dangerously high. It was clear that Elena needed insulin, and she couldn't delay it any longer.

Maya and Carina exchanged a determined look, then gently but firmly guided Elena to the couch in the living room. “My medication is in my lunchbox. I can get it myself-”

“No. Stay here, we’ll take care of you.” Maya quickly shut down the thought as she sat on the table facing Elena and Carina quickly left and came back with the lunchbox pulling out the medication and setting the correct dose.

With Elena's consent, they administered the insulin, their hands working together seamlessly.

Elena felt a profound sense of gratitude and vulnerability as she let Maya and Carina take care of her. The experience brought them closer, deepening their bond and revealing the strength of their newfound love and support for one another. It was a bit uncomfortable but Elena bet it was because she hasn’t had people to lean on before so this was very new territory.

As they finished administering the insulin, Maya and Carina looked at each other, concern etched on their faces.

"Elena, do you have a diabetes management app on your phone?" Maya asked gently.

Elena hesitated, her reluctance apparent. "I do, but I've been managing just fine on my own."

Carina, her love for Elena evident in her eyes, spoke softly. "We understand that you're strong and independent, Elena. But sharing this app with us would help us support you better, especially in emergencies."

Maya added, "It's not about control; it's about being there for each other."

Elena's defenses softened as she realized the validity of their points. She didn't want to fight with them, and deep down, she knew that they were offering their support out of love and concern.

With a sigh of surrender, Elena nodded. "Okay, I'll share the app with you both. But promise me, this won't change anything between us."

After their pivotal moment of sharing Elena's secret, the room was filled with a comfortable silence, broken only by the soft hum of the night outside.

Carina, ever the nurturing presence, leaned in and said with a playful smirk, "Well, Elena, you've been keeping quite a secret, haven't you?"

Elena chuckled, her eyes sparkling with a mix of emotions. "Yeah, I have. I'm sorry for not sharing it sooner."

Maya's fingers traced abstract patterns on Elena's arm, her voice laced with genuine understanding. "Elena, we all have our secrets. What matters is that we're here for each other." Carina nodded in agreement. "Exactly. We're a team, through thick and thin."

Elena felt a sense of warmth and belonging wash over her. "Thank you, both of you."

As the night wore on, they decided to move to the kitchen, not only to change the setting but also to satisfy their late-night cravings. The aroma of brewing coffee filled the air as they worked together, each taking on a task.

Maya handed Elena a piece of fruit, her eyes locking onto Elena's with a smoldering intensity. "You know, Elena, there's something incredibly attractive about your strength and vulnerability."

Elena's cheeks flushed, a shy smile playing on her lips. "Maya, you always know how to say the sweetest things."

Carina, in her usual assertive manner, leaned in and captured Elena's lips in a passionate kiss. It was a kiss filled with longing, a silent promise of the desire that simmered between them. "Elena, we want you—all of you."

Their desires were no longer hidden beneath the surface, but instead of a passionate frenzy, their actions were deliberate, filled with a deep understanding of the moment. Their touches were gentle yet charged with the promise of intimacy.

Elena's voice quivered as she whispered, "I want both of you too."

Maya's fingers traced a path along Elena's arm, igniting a trail of goosebumps. "Let's explore this together, at our own pace."

Carina leaned in, her lips brushing against Elena's earlobe, sending shivers down her spine. "No rush, no expectations, just us."

As the night deepened, they moved to the bedroom, the air heavy with desire and anticipation. Elena felt a profound sense of trust and love, knowing that they were embarking on a unique journey together—one that was not bound by clichés but fueled by their genuine connection and affection.

In the quiet moments that followed, their shared laughter and whispered confessions filled the room, creating an intimate tapestry of love and longing. They were ready to embrace the unknown, united by their love and the promise of a future filled with unique experiences and genuine emotions.

#station 19 #greys anatomy #fanfic #maya x carina #carina deluca #maya bishop #maya bishop x reader #carina deluca x reader #station 19 x reader #maya bishop x carina deluca x reader

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anavatazes · 2 months ago

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Surprise?

You know how you look at something and it gives you inspiration and then a friend says something and it gives you even more inspiration? Yeah, I was hit by the Mack Truck of inspiration.

Visual inspiration: https://www.tumblr.com/shierak-inavva/777787662668070912/watched-the-prequels-tonight-and-took-some?source=share

My lovely friend Maedlin is to blame for this: She woke up from the sleep Apocalypse put her in… and she’s pregnant

She doesn’t know yet… so… Love you, Mae!

Anywho, this takes place at early stages of Krakoa and the beginning of Excalibur (2019). And yes, this takes place in the same world as Decisions.

*****************

Surprise?

Krakoa

Newly formed independent island nation

The celebrations were loud, joyous, and bright. The entire island of Krakoa was alive with the energy of a people who were finally free to be themselves. Free to live. Free to express. The Quiet Council made it official: Krakoa was now home to all mutants and a sovereign nation.

All the hard work that he, Charles, and secretly, Moira had done, had seen fruition. It was a good kind of tired Magnus felt as he flew toward the coast, returning home to the House of M from watching the celebrations with Charles. He stepped inside to find Rogue waiting for him. “I trust you haven't been waiting long?”

“Nah. Celebrated with some of the others. I knew you would be with the Council and then with Charles. We can have ours now…” With that said, the silky, green robe she wore fell to the ground, revealing the body he cherished so much and so often.

“Ah…um…”, he was at war with himself. Indulge now and talk later, or talk now?

Rogue smiled sweetly, seductively making her way to her lover. “Loss for words? Been awhile since that happened. Do me a favor? Lose the uniform, and Ah'll make ya lose more than words,” her kneeling before him, the words, the sound of her voice…

Now! “Rogue, my darling, we should talk before we proceed any further, no matter how tempting having you on your knees before me may be,” helping her up gently, Magnus wraps them both up in his cape, kissing her deeply to assuage her of any possible discontent.

“What is it?”

“During the Council meeting we discussed having laws, and one of the laws I think we should take under serious consideration, but only if you feel ready.” He wasn't sure if he was ready for this. It had been how long since Utopia?

“Magnus, I need to know what it is, so we can discuss it.” Rogue was growing impatient. When she was in a certain mood, her patience wore thin.

“Come, let us discuss this in our chambers,” Magnus picks her up, still cocooned in his cape.

She settles into his chest, reaching her arms around his neck. “Sounds serious,” she hums.

The man known as Magneto relishes in the feel of the woman in his arms, as he traverses their new home. His longest relationship since his wife Magda, Rogue meant everything to him. They'd been through so much together, their relationship tested and tried, and they survived. They both saw Krakoa as a means of not just a new beginning for their people, but for them as well. Their first night here, after hours of lovemaking under the moonlight, Rogue asked him to marry her. Of course he said yes. How could he say anything else? It was difficult to deny her.

Once inside their chambers, he ever so carefully rests them on the bed, facing each other. She reaches up, removes his helmet, which he takes with his powers, depositing it with his other helmets nearby. Smiling up at him, she takes a hand, running it through his hair, massaging his scalp. “So, what're we discussin’, sugah?”

“I know that we haven't discussed this in quite some time, my dear. And now may not be the right time. You may also decide that you don't wish to.”

Rogue places two fingers on his lips to shush him. “Magnus, I heard a rumor goin’ round that a law was passed to make more mutants. Is this true?”

She didn't remove her fingers, so he nodded.

“You want to discuss with me the possibility of us havin’ a baby?” She takes away her hand.

“Only if you feel ready, my love. It has been some time since we lost Irene, and we both agreed when the time was right, and we could ensure your safety to help aid in the prevention of another…” this time Rogue cut him off with a powerful and meaningful kiss, pressing her full length into his body.

It ended in small, light pecks, with them grinning at each other. “Magnus?”

“Yes, Anna?”

“I want to have a baby.”

He had to replay her words in his mind a few times before responding, “You are certain?”

“Baby, I have you, we have Krakoa, our home, our family, our friends, we're engaged, and it's not like I'm up for any of the teams any time soon, as I'm helping the youngsters with their powers. So… let's have a baby!” Rogue forces him onto his back, straddling and kissing Magnus.

He finally obliges her earlier request and loses his uniform.

*******

Over the years of being together, Magneto had allowed himself to play guinea pig to Rogue testing some of the limits of her abilities. This increased her confidence not only in her powers and their applications, strengths, and limitations, but also her self-confidence. He trusted her implicitly, and never doubted her. This, in turn, had an unexpected side effect that neither could have predicted.

Magnus’ control over the electromagnetic sphere allowed him to zero in on her unique magnetic signature, and pinpoint her exact location on the planet with almost no error. If he wanted to, he could open a wormhole, and be with her in minutes, as opposed to the time it would take to fly.

As they practiced with Rogue's abilities, however, they soon discovered that they could sense each other in a new way. First it was across the room, then across the Citadel. If they concentrated enough, they could sense the others’ emotions. With more practice it came with ease. Magnus sent for Emma Frost.

Emma explained that they were developing some sort of Psychic Rapport with one another, though she doubted they'd ever be able to communicate with each other through it. The telepath couldn't explain it fully, but it was linked to Rogue's powers, to how often she absorbed him. They were content with that explanation, and used this to their advantage when it came to battles and other sensitive situations.

Today, though, Magneto was present at the Quiet Council, impatiently waiting for the day to be over. It had been weeks since he and Rogue had started trying for a baby, and nothing yet. He wanted to get her back to their chambers and keep her there until one of their attempts succeeded. She did remind him that she wasn't fertile right now and these things take time, but neither minded the practice. Instead he was here, listening to Shaw and Sinister drone on about nonsensical bullshit, and Rogue was spending the day visiting with Gambit, who had freshly arrived on the island.

He was tempted to place his helmet back on his head, and feign being awake. But Charles and Emma both would give him an earful, like last time. Just as he thought Apocalypse was a lucky asshole for bowing out of Council business today on other, more important business, Magneto paused. Normally he felt a calming love through his link with Rogue. It helped to keep him calm and to not give into his anger as he wanted to do so often in the past.

Without warning, and to everyone's alarm, he slammed his helmet on, reached an arm out, opening a small wormhole, causing even Krakoa to cry out, and he vanished. Charles and Emma look at each other terrified, knowing just what would elicit such a reaction out of the Master of Magnetism.

*****

Gambit was furious! Rogue agreed to help the monster to save Betsy, touched the damned portal, and then the portal started to grab her! He felt like he was moving in sludge, and was unable to help her. Soon she was encased inside a coffin and Apocalypse seemed happy with the results. If the feeling in the air was any indication, he wasn't going to be happy for long. Remy felt the static electricity charging in the air. “You better release her before HE gets here!”

“Rogue cannot be released yet,” Apocalypse didn't spare him a glance. “What do you mean, ‘HE’?”

“He means ME!”

Magneto floated before the closing wormhole, the air crackling with charged energy and magnetic particles. The look of anger that flashed across his face hadn't been seen in a long time. Apocalypse felt himself being lifted off the ground, and for once, being powerless to stop it. The others formed a protective guard around Rogue's body.

“What is the meaning of this, Erik?” He asks calmly.

"Release her, or discover for yourself,” Magneto spit out the words. Spreading open his right fist, Apocalypse's body begins to pull as though it has figures at each limb.

Try as he might, Apocalypse cannot break free. “You have been holding back, Magneto. This is new.”

“You'll be more impressed once I've disintegrated your atoms to nothing. Now, release Rogue!”

“Erik! Stop!”

The voice belonging to Elizabeth Braddock, newly anointed Captain Britain, gives him pause.

“This is not going to help Rogue, nor is it going to help Otherworld. Put him down.”

Stealing a glance at Rogue, Magnus is torn. The love he cherished, trapped in a coffin, unable to feel her, the only thing telling him she was still alive was her electromagnetic signature. His baser instincts were screaming at him to end the ancient mutant before him, and then refuse to allow them to resurrect him permanently. He needed his Anna Marie to keep the world at bay. It was already threatening to come crashing down.

He felt a gentle hand on his arm, and heard, “Father?”

It was Lorna. His youngest. His baby. The one he tried to protect and give the life he and her older siblings never had. When did she arrive? Emma was now next to Rogue. Charles was at the entrance.

“He needs to release her, Lorna.”

“I know, Father. But he can't do anything if you're killing him.”

“He better release her.” Magnus feels his daughter embrace him, and he sighs. Rogue would be so upset with him for losing control like that. He releases Apocalypse, and the ancient one falls unceremoniously to the ground. Trinity is the only one present who goes to check on him.

Lorna leads her father to the ground, gently, and over to where Rogue is. Placing his hand upon the coffin-like box, he resigns himself to failure. He failed to protect her. He felt Lorna squeeze his arm, knowing exactly what he was thinking without needing to read his mind. He also knew it would upset Rogue that he would think that way. But it was something that he developed ever since her miscarriage, and they'd lost Irene. It was haunting him more now, because they were trying for a baby. Krakoa was supposed to be safe. And…

“This island nation is supposed to be safe for our people, Apocalypse. We aren't supposed to worry or fear about attacks from our own people while here. What the fuck were you doing that would cause Rogue to feel such terror?” He never looked away from his heart as he spoke. His voice never wavered.

“Something is wrong in Otherworld and we were on our way to help Ms. Braddock. Something was wrong with the gate. Rogue's unique ability helped to fix it, and then the gate broke.” Apocalypse answered.

Gambit spit on the ground, “Non! Dat not all dere is! You knew dis would happen. You knew!”

There was more back and forth, but calmer heads finally prevailed. It was decided that Kate Pryde would take Betsy, Gambit, Jubilee, Apocalypse, and Rogue's body with Magneto to England so they can travel to Otherworld there. It was determined that though Apocalypse had a hand in whatever happened to Rogue, the destruction of the gate on the other side may have had a hand, as well as whatever Morgan LeFay may have done to it.

Magneto purposely ignored Apocalypse during the journey, not wishing to encourage his own anger to rise again. Emma Frost also strongly suggested to Apocalypse to leave Erik alone, that to antagonize him in any way would be a mistake, as he's already proven he's held back all these years. Apocalypse left Magneto to meditate next to Rogue. Gambit and Kate were the only ones who seemed to even to want to bother him at all, making sure he was taking care of himself.

********

This whole being in England and Otherworld, it was exhausting. He wanted to destroy Apocalypse permanently and be done with it. The urge was becoming more difficult to pass up. The calls with the children were somewhat helpful in distracting him during the downtime. Emma would converse with him telepathically to help put his mind at ease. Things he couldn't confide with Charles about, he could with Emma. Emma had proven herself indispensable to him and Rogue as a couple's therapist, and then as his therapist.

It was Emma who had alerted Lorna that her father had gone off the deep end when Rogue had been encased into this box. Emma suggested he go along with them, knowing that he would've been next to impossible to deal with otherwise. She'd helped him conquer most of his demons. The rest Rogue helped him keep at bay until he was ready to face them.

“Erik? You eat yet?” Gambit asked, already knowing the man didn't. He handed him a bowl and spoon.

“Gumbo?”

“Is good fer all growing mutants,” Remy winked, sitting down, across from him.

Magnus hadn't kept a Kosher diet since he was a child, before the camps, and decided that he probably wouldn't ever be able to return to that part of his heritage. Not with the things that Rogue and Gambit both could do with shrimp and pork. There were other reasons, but gumbo was a favorite meal that his Cajun friend made. Rogue would often make pulled pork when they would gather with the children. He couldn't bear the thought of telling her he couldn't eat that delicious meal anymore.

The two ate in silence for a few moments, as they often did when Remy would bring him food back from Krakoa.

“What news from home?” Magnus missed the home he built with Rogue so much. They'd only had it for a few weeks when things were disturbed. Not quite two whole months yet. The plans they made. When Krakoa caught word of their trying for a baby, the island sent Doug to ask where they wanted the baby's room, and a room near their chambers had been growing ever since. It was almost done.

“Quiet.” Remy answered, taking a healthy scoop of his gumbo. After swallowing, he smiles. “Ran into a mutual friend o’ours.”

“Oh?” He wasn't sure if this was good or not. Remy looked mischievous. There was a fifty-fifty chance of it going either way.

“Yup. Dey have ‘perience wit Otherworld and telepathy. Dey talk to Rogue, maybe see dey help some.”

Magnus smiled into his bowl. Rachel. Remy talked to Rachel. She had finally made her way to Krakoa and Remy had hunted her down. Rachel still kept in touch with Rogue and he knew that the telepath would be there soon, just not exactly. This was perfect news. Betsy didn't want to invade Rogue's mind for whatever reason, but Rachel, she would do it. And she was familiar with the magics and goings on with Otherworld to be able to offer Rogue assistance. He should have his Anna Marie back soon. He just needed to give Rachel the time she needed to help Rogue.

*****

She was back. She was blue. And her uniform didn't fit anymore. She woke up from the sleep Apocalypse put her in… and she's pregnant? Rogue didn't know how far along, but far enough to be showing. How long had she been asleep? Oh god! Magnus! Where was he? At that thought, the familiar arms and cape made their way around her, lips pressing against hers. He had her, as always. She could hear the world around them, the whoops and hollers of their friends, but as it was whenever Magnus enveloped them in his cape, it always sounded so far away. It was just them.

The feeling of his hand on her protruding belly, and the look in his eyes, looking for confirmation. “I guess we're pregnant, Magnus!” She whispered excitedly.

Capturing her lips in a great kiss welcoming her back, he tried to pour all of his feelings into it. He had her back! Rogue was back and pregnant! He wasn't sure how she was so far along right now, perhaps mid-pregnancy? But once they return to Krakoa, he would have Joshua look her and the baby over and ensure they were both well. Right now? Right now he wanted to hold them and be grateful and in love.

*****

Once the mess in England and Otherworld was taken care of, Emma Frost met them at a suspiciously empty gate at Krakoa. Betsy had been kind enough to find clothes for Rogue to wear, courtesy of Meggan. But, she and Magnus still weren't sure how they felt about all of this, and really needed to see Joshua, or Elixir, as soon as they could. Emma had an emerald green bundle in her arms, handing it to Rogue.

“I wasn't expecting to give this to you so soon, but it'll help keep prying eyes away,” Emma explained.

Rogue unfurled it, revealing a beautiful hooded robe, that appeared to be adjustable around the chest and midsection. “Oh, Emma. I love it.”

Emma and Magnus helped her into it, as Emma explained, “As the fiancée of a Quiet Council member, and a mother-to-be, we can't have you looking dreadful, or being uncomfortable. It's set up so you can also nurse baby, if you so choose, in complete secrecy and/or comfort. But we'll finish going over what else this can do after you see Joshua.”

Taking Magnus’ hand in hers, the couple follow Emma. She leads them to the healing gardens, where Joshua is waiting for them. Helping Rogue up onto the exam table, the young mutant known as Elixir stares at Rogue for a moment.

“May I?” He asks permission to touch her belly. When Rogue nods her head, he carefully rests his hands on either side of her stomach. Closing his eyes, he takes a breath. Then he smiles. Opening his eyes, Joshua removes his hands. “I have good news and I have good news.”

“Don't hold back, better tell us the good news!” Rogue was excited. Earlier she expressed some concern to Magnus that something could be wrong with the baby because of the influence of the magic of Otherworld. He agreed with her. They were both certain that if anything were wrong with the baby at all, Joshua would be able to tell. Betsy had already confirmed it was not an Otherworld child.

“Well, you and baby are both healthy. I cannot find anything wrong with either of you,” Joshua almost covered his ears at the whoop of joy that Rogue released, and made way for Magneto to embrace her. “Once you two are done celebrating, I can tell you how far along you are, and even the sex of the baby, if you want.”

“Do you want to know what we're having, Rogue? We haven't had time to discuss, well, anything!” Magneto was so happy, he didn't really care. That part was all new to him anyway. When Magda had Anya, the technology hadn't existed, and he didn't even know what mutants were. He hadn't been able to be there for the twins or Lorna. This one would be different.

“Yes! It'll be easier to plan everything out! Unless you have any objections?”

“None. This part is new for me.”

“This is all new to me.”

He kisses her.

Emma clears her throat.

“Sorry, jus’ a little excited is all,” Rogue blushes. “Go ahead with it all, Joshua.”

“Ok, I place you at 20 weeks, so about 4 months. That is based on the size and weight of the baby, the size of the placenta and a few other things. Like I said, the baby is perfectly healthy, has a strong cardio system, and everything. We can get you set up with a midwife to help guide you through the rest of the pregnancy. And congratulations, you're having a boy!”

******

“Why didn’t you tell me you were trying for a baby?” Mystique sat with Rogue at an outdoor cafe, enjoying a light lunch in the beautiful Krakoan weather.

“Well, because we wanted to wait and see if we were gonna get pregnant and then if the baby was gonna stay. Didn’t wanna get nobody’s hopes up, Mama,” Rogue takes a sip of her tea.

“I should end Apocalypse for what he did to you.”

“Get in line. And ‘sides, I already killed him once for it,” the two laugh.

“You need to stop being so helpful, now that you’re pregnant and going to be a mother. You missed out on the first few months of your pregnancy because of it.”

Rogue merely rolls her eyes at that. “You know I ain’t gonna stop doing that. Be more cautious, yeah, but it's who I am, and you know it.”

“He’s still treating you well?”

Laughing, Rogue shakes her head, “You really still on ‘bout that? Lord, Mama. He worships the ground I walk on, and ever since the baby, he’s gotten worse!”

“A mother can worry, Rogue. You are going to know what that feels like now. You may claim his family as yours,” Mystique points out, “but it's different when it's your own.”

“It’s not like I had a hand in raisin’ any of Magnus’ kids. They came all grown, and we were all friends anyway.”

“And they’re all older than you…” “Now, just stop right there, young lady!” Rogue gets frustrated with her mother. “You are how much older than Sabertooth, yet you had his son?”

“Don’t remind me.” Mystique takes a calming breath. ��I’m sorry. I’m letting a small tiff between myself, Erik, and Charles get in the way of our time together. We need to celebrate, not allow squabbles interfere with such joyous news.” As she took Rogue’s hand to squeeze it reassuringly, the shapechanging mutant was never more grateful for the gloves she wore as a barrier between her and her daughter. If Rogue found out about the ‘squabble’, it would ruin her happiness, and, at least for now, Mystique didn’t have the heart to do it.

******

“Can't you leave the broodmare at home, Magneto?” Sinister sneered at Magneto and Rogue from in the Council Chambers. Rogue took her fiancé's arm causing him to look at her.

“Don't give him the satisfaction, dear.” She was wearing her emerald green robes from Emma, and was just visiting for a moment while the Council was on recess. At eight months, Rogue was now on leave from teaching the children, finding herself with more spare time.

“Just a little strangulation?”

“No. He's not worth the energy.”

She was right. Of course. He didn't need to look over at Charles to know he was agreeing with her. The two often ganged up on him when Sinister reared his ugly head. Or when Shaw would dare speak. Or Apocalypse would breathe. Especially then. Apocalypse was still someone that neither he or Rogue would have much to do with.

Apocalypse returned that energy by giving them a wide berth. He explained to Emma that had he known that Rogue was pregnant, he wouldn't have involved her at all. Emma rolled her eyes at him.

Rogue had a feeling from what remained of his memories that he was full of it. “Not supposed to be a late one, right, hon?”

Taking Rogue's hand and kissing it, Magnus replies, “No, it's not. Just more of the daily droll. I will be home in time for the children and Thomas.” His family. His three older children and his grandson, Thomas. They all agreed with Rogue so far along in the pregnancy that leaving Krakoa was not safe, so they tried to make dinner a regular thing here, at the House of M. Many Mutants were still uneasy around Wanda due to M Day, but Rogue made it perfectly clear that she wasn't against bashing some heads in if they denied Magneto time with his daughter. When Wanda arrived, she would head straight to her father's home, and not dally at all.

“All right. Just don't make me pull the Thomas card. I know he's your favorite,” Rogue winks at him.

******

“I want to draw you,” he blurted out one lazy afternoon. Rogue lounged on their bed, leafing through a kosher recipe book. Billy and Teddy were actually going to make Family Meal and she was determined to have more variety available.

“You haven't wanted to do that in forever, Sugah. Why now?” So focused on her task, Rogue didn't see the contentment on his face.

“You just look so… amazing on our bed, carrying our child, searching for recipes that Billy said you didn't have to. I merely wish to capture it, in one of the best mediums I know to show off your exquisiteness.” As he spoke, Magnus opened the leather-bound sketch book Wanda had gifted him.

“Oh you!” Rogue beamed, having missed seeing this side of him. Being so busy with Krakoa, he didn't often indulge in his hobbies. She would find Magnus relaxing to a glass of wine, and reports from one of the Captains, some investments, or government records. The list went on. Rarely would he read one of his books, or just listen to his music.

So they spent the rest of the afternoon discussing recipes and drawing.

******

Magneto found himself arguing with Shaw, again. It had become a regular event at the Quiet Council meetings. Sinister sat there, bemused as ever at the display. Charles rested his chin on his arm, knowing his old friend was more anxious about Rogue’s impending birth than he was about disagreeing with Sebastian Shaw on principle. The other members were occupying themselves with other things while the tirade continued.

Emma, however, was the first to notice that Erik had grown silent mid-sentence. “Erik?”

“I believe it’s time,” he looked Emma straight in her eyes.

Surprise displayed on her face as she stood up, while simultaneously reaching out to Rogue’s mind, walked over to Erik, who seemed to be paralyzed. “I believe you are right. Come on, let’s get you to her and the baby.”

Mechanically, Magneto took Emma’s hand. How long had it been since Anya’s birth? At that time it was unheard of for men to be present at the birth. He’d been at work when Magda had given birth, and only found out when he arrived home. Rogue insisted he was going to be present, and he never argued. He wanted this. So why was Emma having to guide him along like a lost child?

You are in shock, Erik. Emma spoke softly in his mind as they walked to the House of M. Kurt had offered to teleport them, but she shook that off. Didn’t need the father-to-be to lose his stomach. Perhaps he’d wake up out of his stupor enough to fly them there. Kurt, ever the loving brother, did his duty and stuck by their side to assist should they need it. His sister had a feeling her man would react this way.

She isn’t due for another month… he thought.

It’s real. Lorna is with her at home, with Ariel, the midwife you both picked out, and Joshua is on standby. All that is missing, is you.

At that, Magneto shook his head, looked at both Emma and Kurt, the shell shocked look disappearing and his demeanor changing to serious. Without warning, he lifted them into the air, carrying them to the House of M.

Mystique watched from a distance as they flew off. Sighing heavily and sadly, she began the walk to the House of M. A place she may not find a very warm welcome.

******

All was quiet at the House of M, while it's inhabitants finally slept. Well, most of them. Lorna had stopped by to check on her father, Rogue, and new little brother, Jakob. They were passed out on their gigantic bed, little Jakob sucking madly on his fist in between them. Careful not to wake the new parents, Lorna used her powers to lift her brother up and over to her. Cradling him close and taking him into the nearby nursery, Lorna decides to spend some time with her little brother and let the others sleep. If he's hungry, she'll wake Rogue.

Entranced by his big sister and the rocking motion, Jakob stares up at Lorna. She smiles down at him, kissing his forehead. “Hey, little man. I thought you would still be sleeping with your grand entrance into the world,” she chuckles. “You are definitely one of us. Showing up almost a month early, and having to be as dramatic about it as possible, huh?” Sitting down in the rocking chair, Lorna continues rocking him. Having been with Rogue during some of the midwife visits, Lorna knew that the birth could take a long time as first babies could. Little Jakob, on the other hand, had other plans. Rogue’s entire labor lasted hours, with the baby arriving with a powerful set of lungs. Her father commented that was definitely one of his, already screaming at him.

“Good thing Father has a sense of humor about this stuff. At least now. With your Mommy, he's changed a lot, for the better. Your Mommy has helped piece our family together. I don't think we'll ever be perfect, but I like that we aren't dysfunctional anymore. That we do things together now. That we have a relationship with him. And you are lucky. You will get to grow up with him. Something none of us have been able to do. Something that I think we are a little envious of, but after we found out the truth, it turns out he didn't have a choice.”

“At least with the twins, he didn't. With me, he made an impossible choice. He said it was one he would make again if it meant keeping me safe. I guess I can forgive him for that. So, don't you dare squander the time you have with the old man, you hear me?” Lorna reaches down to kiss her baby brother, again, seeing he fell back asleep.

Standing up slowly, Lorna turns and sees her father standing in the doorway, his cheeks wet with tears. “If I could have had my way, my sweet daughter, I would have had all three of you with me the entire time.”

“I know. And I would have loved that. But you did what you thought was best. And, I can't be angry with you anymore about that.”

The man once known as Max Eisenhardt embraces his two youngest children, little Jakob protesting for a second. “It means a lot to me to hear you say that, Lorna.”

“I mean every word, Father.”

*******

#rouge x magneto #magneto #erik lehnsherr #rogue #marvel #max eisenhardt #magneto x rogue #krakoa #rogueneto #rogneto

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happyhuffles · 4 months ago

Text

Angel - 05

Pairing: Idol!Hyunjin x Musician!oc

Genre: fluff!

Synopsis: Two strangers with the same love for the city and songwriting meet under the stars in Chicago. They fall in love, quick and easy. But, there's a problem. They are both keeping a big secret from each other.

Warnings: none in this part :)

2.6k

Masterlist

_____

Anne and Andrew arrived to the stadium on time for rehearsal and now that it was nearing 8:00 am they were wrapping up. Finally, the girl had discovered that they were opening for Stray Kids alongside Hannah Bahng.

It would be a quick set. Hozier was only going to perform three songs but rehearsal was especially important because it wouldn't be with the usual band. Thankfully, the crew on the guitar, bass, and drums had worked together before so they were quick to flow together. The only had to run through each song twice to get the hang of it.

The other back up singer, Ny Oh, was also quick to flow with Anne. She was a Brit like the rest of the back up crew, minus Anne, and had a superb sense of style. The older girl rocked a long shag and micro bangs, as well as the most amazing vocals.

Even in the early morning haze, Anne and Ny Oh clicked instantly. They exchanged giggles between takes, riffing off each other with silly harmonies during sound checks, their voices melting together like they'd been singing side by side for years. Andrew had only needed to scold them once, and even then, it was half-hearted, his lips twitching with amusement.

A loud ping came from Andrew's phone and he put the mic back on the stand to take the device out of his pocket.

"I think were good, lets get outta here before the others get here," he said, looking to Anne.

Something about his tone was unreadable, but Anne dismissed it, slinging her bag over her shoulder. If anything, she was just excited for the real thing—the energy of the crowd, the sheer magic of standing on stage with Hozier.

She was nothing but a back-up singer so her presence would be ignored which is how she preferred it. After performing she always went back to being a nameless face but little did the crowds know, she was the Angel that fans begged artists to reveal.

Before they left, Andrew clapped his hands together. “Wait, wait. Group picture.”

Groans of protest followed, but no one truly objected. Sarah, Mitch, and Adam—the three on backing instruments—dropped to the ground, leaning against each other in exaggerated exhaustion. Behind them, Andrew, Ny Oh, and Anne stood shoulder to shoulder.

The camera clicked.

And just like that, another moment was captured. A moment that, unbeknownst to Anne, was leading her straight to someone she desperately needed to see again.

_____

Stray Kids walked through a crowded sidewalk towards a restaurant they had bought out to eat a peaceful lunch after their rehearsal. Despite the boys having their masks pulled high and hats hanging low, the paparazzi still found them.

A flurry of camera shutters erupted like gunfire, the air thick with shouted questions.

"Bangchan, how do you feel with your sister opening for Stray Kids?"

"Han, is it true that you were recently hospitalized due to an anxiety attack?"

"Hyunjin, fans are wondering whats inside the locket you're seen to be wearing since your trip two months ago."

"What do you have to say to about tonights show?"

The bodyguards around them worked aimlessly to keep them protected from the growing mob. But, reported and paparazzi's alike were ruthless and pushed back aggressively desperate to capture a moment for their tabloids. Photographers jostled for space, reporters shoved microphones into their paths, and fans on the outskirts screamed their names.

Hyunjin’s grip tightened around the locket resting against his chest beneath his hoodie, fingers brushing over the cool metal. He didn't stop. He didn’t even flinch.

Times like this made him miss Anne desperately. She was his calm in the storm, the light at the end of the tunnel, a warm hug in a cold night. Nothing could compare to his time spent with her. Especially because when they were together they were just two ordinary people. No flashing lights, and microphones were shoved in their faces, and they could just enjoy the world as normal people.

Beside him, he could sense Minho and Jisung. The older boy had a protective arm around his boyfriend, despite the flashing camera's. From the little he could see of his friends face, it was clear that Jisung was anxious. He hated crowds like this in general and no doubt the invasive questions about his health made it worse.

When they finally made it into the restaurant, the doors were quickly locked behind them. Bangchan led them through a doorway and into a back room where a group of tables were pulled together for them. There were no windows or video camera's and the only other person who stood in there was a waiter who didn't gawk at them like they weren't human.

Though it was a late lunch, most of the boys ordered some form of caffeine. It was a long day after all.

"I'll have whatever drip coffee you have, with a tablespoon of cream and a tablespoon of milk, please," Hyunjin told the waiter, who looked at him over the tiny notebook.

"We had another singer in here earlier and his friend asked for the same exact order," the waiter started with an airy chuckle, "Its not often we get musicians in here but I guess you all like your coffee the same way."

The room carried on as normal, Jisung finally relaxing into Minho’s side, the others placing their orders. But Hyunjin remained still for a beat longer, fingers absently brushing against the locket beneath his hoodie.

That's how his Annie liked her coffee too.

_____

"Why do I have to be the one to keep Anne busy," Felix whines dramatically.

He, Changbin, and Bangchan all sat in a circle on the small queen bed in the hotel. The important discussion of tonights plan between Hyunjin and Anne was unfolding.

"Because I need to talk to Andrew about the show and you are a lot more friendly than Changbin," Bangchan said, looking over at the pouty boy.

Changbin rolled his eyes but didn’t argue. The older boy was aware of his tendency to come on very strong, especially when he was excited.

"So, Binnie keeps Hyunjin in the dressing room during Hannah's performance," Felix starts pointing at this friend, "You talk to Andrew," he points to Bangchan, "And I talk to Anne about god knows what to make sure she stays away from our dressing rooms," Felix finished, flopping onto his back again with a groan.

The other boys nod in agreement.

Weeks of meticulous planning had led to this moment. The group chat between Changbin, Felix, Bang Chan, and Andrew had been buzzing with activity for days, ensuring every last detail was accounted for. They had even created a detailed schedule, tracking Anne and Hyunjin’s movements hour by hour to make sure they didn’t accidentally run into each other before the show.

"Bangchan did you call the cafe I found?" Felix asked.

The leader nodded. "Yeah, they said that they will stay open for them. They were not mad about the payment either," he chuckled.

"I got an outfit picked out for Hyunjinnie too, I sent a pic to Andrew so he knows what to buy for Anne." Felix said.

Changbin snorted. “You really went all in on this.”

“Of course I did!” Felix said, puffing up proudly. “I know Hyunjin better than he knows himself, and he never shuts up about her, so I had a pretty solid idea of what their perfect date would look like.”

The blonde was proud of his work. He knew Hyunjin quite well and having heard the boy talk about his lover the most, he had a solid picture as to what their perfect date would look like.

"Oh, Andrew ended up paying Hannah to go. I think he felt weird about shopping for Anne's date night, I'm pretty sure they are siblings," Bangchan said thoughtfully.

The Felix hummed in agreement. They definitely did seem like siblings. Or, at least they acted like siblings.

"Yeah, it would definitely be weird picking out a outfit for your sisters date," Changbin agreed, cringing at the thought of doing the same for his older sister. He knew that he wanted her to stay single forever.

The other boys shuddered in agreement. Each of them had sisters and that came with a shared resentment for the male population that tried to date them. It was surprising how enthusiastic Andrew was about his whole ordeal.

"Andrew mentioned that Anne has her own room, right?" Changbin asked, standing from his spot on the bed and moving towards his bag.

Bangchan nodded his head.

"I brought my noise canceling headphones but you guys and the rest of the boys should go out and get some," Changbin mentioned, a slight smirk on his face.

Felix opened his mouth, then promptly shut it. Fair point.

"NO, NO and NO," Bangchan said standing up abruptly, his hands raised like he was warding off a threat. "We are not talking about this."

“Well, either way,” Changbin said, tossing his headphones onto the bed, “I’m not risking my sleep for Hyunjin’s romantic reunion. If they get carried away, I know what to do.”

Felix, ever the instigator, smirked. “Sounds like a plan. And by the way, Hyunjin’s probably going to spend half the night quoting romantic poetry at Anne."

"Yeah, they might not even fuck," Changbin chuckled.

"Both of you shut the fuck up now." Bangchan said, pressing his hands to his ears.

Felix and Changbin both leaned back, grinning. The silence that followed was thick, and Bang Chan’s face flushed a little from the embarrassment of the whole situation.

“You guys are unbelievable,” Bang Chan muttered, glaring at them but unable to hold back a small laugh. “I can’t even believeI’m dealing with this. We’re supposed to be focusing on the plan, not... whatever this is.”

"Channie, this is about the plan," Felix giggled, "we just need to make sure we have the proper equipment to stay mentally well on our side of the deal."

He had to admit, though, as much as he hated it, Felix was right. The idea of hearing anything from the other room made him shudder. So, that afternoon, Bangchan went to the store and bought seven other pairs of noise canceling headphones.

_____

"Hannah's on in five," Mitch, our guitarist said, coming into Andrew's dressing room where everyone was crowded in. He placed a sweet peck to Sarah's cheek. Sarah was our drummer, who also happened to be married to Mitch.

The sight of the lovey-dovey couple made Anne's gut twist in longing. She wished that she could be with him now but knew that his situation was different. He had to be in Korea and wasn't allowed to have a love life, while she was busy traveling and writing.

Everyone hummed and stood, wanting to see our most recently made friends performance. Hannah Bahng was a sweet girl with a blonde fringe that melted into her dark head of hair.

Apparently, Chris the man that Anne had met this morning, was her brother. It made a lot of sense really. They were practically twins plus, Hannah wrote her own music too.

The group made their way out of the dressing room and too the stage entrance backstage.

"Hey, Andrew," a voice called out.

Anne turned to see Chris walking towards him. An arm was outstretched and Andrew grabbed it firmly giving a good handshake.

Before Anne could question why her friend seemed so familiar with the man she had only met this morning a tap on her shoulder stole her attention. A kind looking, blonde man stood before her. A sheepish smile spread out across his face as he gave her a light bow.

"Hi, I'm Felix," the man said, extending a welcoming hand.

Anne took it in hers offering a smile. "I'm Anne," she said.

The curious girl watched as Felix took a step back. His arms came up and down gesturing to her as a whole, "I just had to say that I love your outfit."

Anne blushed at his kindness and thanked him immediately. She wore a white, tight-fitting, strap top with her wispy hair held up by a claw clip, exposing her beautiful collarbones. Hyunjin's necklace dangled front in center on her chest, shining in the stage light. On her feet were a brown and white pair of addidas gazelle's and a medium washed baggy jean sat low on her hips exposing a sliver of her mid-drift. Yes, it was the middle of winter but they were inside of a building filled with sweaty bodies. So the outfit was definitely appropriate.

"I like yours too!" Anne said happily, gesturing to him as well.

Felix wore a cut-off jersey top with the bands logo across the front. The same as what the rest of the members were wearing but Anne had yet to see them.

"Thanks," he said, with a small smile, "so, you are back-up for one of the openers?"

Keep her talking Felix, don't let her eyes wander in case Changbin can't do his job.

Anne nodded, "Yeah I'm singing back up for Hozier."

Felix rocked back on his feet excitedly."Nice! I love the new album, Francesca is definitely my favorite song," he says.

A pleased hum escapes the girls lips at his words. "You have good taste," she says, and then leans in, "we may or may not be performing it tonight."

Francesca was in fact on the roster. It was one of two songs from the most recent album that they were going to perform. Of course, they had to open with Take Me to Church, a crowd favorite. But following that would be Eat Your Young and finally Francesca.

Felix’s eyes lit up at her words. “No way! I can't wait to hear it!"

Anne giggled and opened her mouth to reply but Andrew's steady voice cut her off. "We're on in two, Anne, Ny Oh, come get your mics."

Anne blinked, slightly startled by the interruption. She gave Felix a quick smile, grateful for the pleasant exchange. "Looks like it’s time for me to go," she said with a soft chuckle, stepping back.

Felix gave her a thumbs-up, his grin still wide. “Good luck! You’ll do great out there, Anne.”

She nodded, her stomach fluttering with a mix of nerves and excitement. "Thanks, Felix. I'll catch you later!"

Anne turned, making her way toward Andrew and Ny Oh, who were both already positioned near the sound equipment.

Andrew gave her a quick look as she approached, his expression unreadable. "Ready?" he asked, his voice steady but with a hint of something she couldn’t quite place.

Anne gave a small nod, adjusting her microphone. "Yeah, just getting a little nervous now."

"Don’t be," Ny Oh chimed in, her British accent smooth and calming. "We’ve got this. Just enjoy the moment."

Anne smiled, trying to calm her nerves. Her hands subconsciously reaching up to toy with the locket on her neck. She knew Ny Oh was right.

As they walked toward the stage, the buzz of the crowd grew louder, sending another wave of excitement through Anne. She could feel the energy of the audience even from behind the curtains, and it made her heart race with anticipation.

Once they were in position, the curtain slowly began to rise. The familiar strains of Take Me to Church echoed through the stadium, and the crowd’s cheers surged. Anne’s eyes quickly found the Andrew on the center of the stage, and as the lights flickered on.

She settled into the rhythm of the moment, knowing that tonight was going to be one to remember.

Tag list: @my-neurodivergent-world

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primatechnosynthpop · 2 months ago

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Alright I'm probably never gonna finish this so here. It's Pronounced Conk [unfinished nkotr × fotc crossover thing]

"It sure is exciting to go on a trip to a new place, huh, guys?" Neil smiled as he spoke, stretching his arms above his head and tilting his head back to the neon-lit gray sky.

"I'll say," Ryan put in cheerfully. "I can't believe the studio sent us all the way to New Zealand!"

"New York, Ryan," Kevin corrected him without missing a beat. "New York. We've been over this."

They'd been sent up to the big apple to meet a band they were supposed to collaborate with on an upcoming webisode. The studio hadn't told them who this band was, where they were supposed to meet, or any details about the webisode in question. But that didn't bother the new kids too much. It was still an excuse to stretch their legs.

And as luck would have it, the muffled sounds of music came from inside the small bar which the new kids happened to have come to a stop outside. Kevin glanced through the window and spotted a couple guys onstage playing to a crowd of one woman and a hooded figure. He rapped his knuckles against the glass to draw his friends' attention and jerked his head toward the window with a smirk.

"Get a load of this, guys."

"Huh..." Neil's gaze swept around until he noticed a poster on the door, which he grabbed and examined with a squint. "I don't suppose they're the band we're supposed to meet... that would be a pretty big coincidence."

"Hmm..." Ryan stroked his chin, eyebrows raised as he leaned in to read the poster over Neil's shoulder. Part of it was torn away, partially obscuring the name of the band. "Flight of the conch...?"

"It's pronounced conk," Neil put in, to which Ryan shook his head.

Inside the bar, Jemaine and Bret were becoming increasingly worried about the hooded figure who had joined Mel in the otherwise nonexistent crowd halfway through their first song. Since then the figure hadn't moved or said a word even as Mel jumped and waved her arms and cheered rabidly. That part wasn't weird, because they were used to people other than Mel not cheering for them-- but the hooded figure hadn't left either, which was strange.

"D'you think we should end the gig early?" Bret whispered to his bandmate between songs, wide eyes flicking to the hooded figure and back again. "That guy is freaking me out. I'm worried he might be a mugger."

"It's probably fine... if he is a mugger, he hasn't mugged us yet," Jemaine said with less conviction than he would have liked. He followed his bandmate's gaze to the silent figure and bit down a shudder. "...Then again, maybe..."

Just as he was about to agree they should probably get out of there, the door swung open and three young guys strolled in. This immediately changed everything. Now that the audience had more than doubled in size, there was no way they could leave early.

The new kids seated themselves around a table toward the back of the bar, still unsure if this was the right band but figuring they might as well. Neil tapped his foot to the next two songs they played and even hummed along to the one about a robot apocalypse. Kevin was less into the music-- it really wasn't his thing-- but took the opportunity to lean back and relax. Ryan liked the music but couldn't relax. He could sense in the air that something was wrong, and as the slighter of the two musicians cleared his throat and began playing a song about how various rappers weren't very good, it became clear what the danger was.

The hooded figure threw back his hood to reveal the very man Ryan had once beaten up for threatening to take their ice creams. Nobody gasped at this reveal. He had his back to the new kids, so they couldn't see his face, while the conchords had never seen this man before and had no idea who he was.

"Did I just hear you insulting rappers?" Upon receiving no immediate answer, he advanced toward the stage and drew a gun out of his pocket. "Huh?"

"He's the only one doing it," Jemaine said, pointing at Bret and taking a few hasty steps back. "I'm not-- I haven't said anything."

"But your silence speaks volumes."

"You know, you should probably let us finish the song," Bret told him, holding up his guitar and bonking it against the mic stand in the process. He cringed at the noise. "We, um, we're just getting to the good part."

"Oh, I think I've heard enough," the thug sneered. "It's like my favourite rap song goes... you say what, I say--"

Before the former attempted ice cream thief could complete his graduation to death threats, Ryan catapulted over a table and tackled him to the ground. The thug barely had a chance to cry out before Ryan planted a kick to his back and another to his head. He was joined moments later by Mel. The latter had been planning to stand by and watch-- it would be awfully exciting if her two favourite guys got all bloody and beat up-- but if that wasn't going to happen, the next best thing was giving their would-be assailant hell.

Neil and Kevin were watching this turn of events with interest (though not enough interest to step in themselves) when a ginger businessman pushed past, calling the names of the two musicians. Neil blinked-- it took him a moment, but he recognized that voice. This was the guy he'd spoken to over the phone to arrange their trip! So they really had ended up at the right place to meet the band after all.

"Hey, uh," he said, grabbing the manager's sleeve. "You're from Murray Hewitt Productions, right? I spoke to you over the phone."

"What? Ah, yes!" Though his brow initially crinkled in confusion, Murray brightened upon turning to face Neil. His concern over the band, who through all this remained clutching at each other in fear on the stage, was instantly forgotten. "And you'd be from... what was that website called again?"

"Http://hollywoodeasttv.com!"

The name was what had tripped Murray up when he stumbled across the website at random. He'd signed Jemaine and Bret up to work with them under what he thought was the very reasonable assumption they were actually affiliated with Hollywood, only to be told by the unimpressed band that "Hollywood is to the west of us, not the east" and "We don't want to go to Massachusetts". Still, what was done was done. He'd sent the studio a copy of their Lord of the Rings tribute video, and Neil had loved it. He'd agreed to meet the band to discuss collaborating.

"So this is our guy, huh?" Kevin mused, putting a hand on his hip and chewing his lip as he looked Murray up and down. He didn't look as rock-and-roll as he thought he might (Neil had insisted that the music video he'd seen was "really cool" but neglected to elaborate on that). "We'd better tell Ryan about this."

Meanwhile, now that the rap defender was taken care of (although Mel kept stomping on him and cursing him out for much longer than necessary) Bret gave Ryan a slow clap. He had a starstruck look in his eyes which Jemaine recognized from the time they'd met the former lead singer of Crowded House, and also from the time they'd gone to the zoo and seen an elephant.

"That was amazing," Bret enthused. "How'd you do that?"

"Oh, this?" Ryan nudged the crumpled figure behind him with his foot. "Just natural talent, I think."

"He used to think it was because of his family lineage," Neil put in as he and Kevin sidled up to rejoin Ryan, with Murray trailing behind them with a barely contained grin. "But that was just a lie I made up for fun."

"Woah. That's really cool," Bret said. Leaning toward his bandmate, he confided: "This guy seems awesome. I think I'm going to ask him to join..."

"Join what?" Jemaine asked, brow furrowing. "The band? Might want to run a background check on him first."

Ignoring him, Bret knelt down at the edge of the stage and addressed Ryan. "Would you like to join my gang? It's called the Tough Brets. Right now our manager Murray is the only member, but if you join then I'll probably rejoin too."

"Think this over carefully, Ryan," Neil advised him in a hiss. "It could be dangerous."

"Yeah, seriously," Kevin added, crossing his arms and shifting his weight from foot to foot uneasily. "I mean, a gang? I don't like the sound of that."

Ryan grinned, oblivious to his friends' concerns. "The Tough Brets? Why, sure, it'd be an honour!"

As they were leaving the bar, Mel pulled Ryan aside and grabbed his hands. Neil made a disgruntled expression at this while Ryan's eyebrows rose but he made no move to get away. Mel's eyes glimmered the same way they had the first time she heard Flight of the Conchords play, and before that, the first time she saw Doug from across the campus. Ryan, Neil, and Kevin looked young, probably a little young for her, but would it be totally crazy if she was suddenly kind of in love with one or more of them?

"Thank you so much for saving Bret tonight," she breathed. "I don't know what I'd do if anything happened to him. I mean, I guess I'd still have Jemaine... but I don't know what he'd do, either-- I mean, he'd probably fall into some kind of deep depression that could only be cured by--"

"You know, it was really nothing," Ryan cut her off with a smile that was meant to be polite but came off vaguely menacing. Mel, however, was undeterred.

"Oh, it was everything. I mean, all that masculine bravado combined with your almost feminine airs?" Her eyes glazed over as she looked Ryan up and down and her speech became slurred with drool. "It's like you're this beautiful androgynous enigma full of hidden depths."

"Hey, back off, lady," Neil interjected sharply, putting his hands on Ryan's shoulders to pry him away from Mel. "We only date people if the studio tells us to."

"Oh, you don't need to be jealous," she chirped, releasing Ryan only to turn her attention (and accompanying hand-grabbing) on Neil. "I mean, you may be too thin and bony to be traditionally attractive, but it lends you an otherworldly quality that makes you seem dangerous and mysterious and sexy."

"Oh... um..." Neil squirmed, face scrunching up with displeasure. He wasn't quite sure what to say to that. "You too?"

Meanwhile, Kevin had stayed back inside the bar to make sure the two musicians were alright. That rap lover had probably followed them from Massachusetts, and this whole thing could have been avoided if they'd just made sure he was dead the first time Ryan beat him up. Ryan and Neil recognized this too, but Kevin was the only one who felt vaguely bad about it.

"So, how are you two holding up?"

"We're... alright," Jemaine replied hesitantly.

Behind him, Bret was gazing out the window at Ryan and Neil's misadventures. He felt bad seeing Mel harass them, especially after Ryan saved his life, but he wasn't willing to step outside until Mel was gone. Really, those guys had just saved him again by keeping her distracted. He'd have to think of a way to make it up to them later.

Seeing that his bandmate was distracted, Jemaine took the opportunity to lean in and whisper to Kevin. "I don't think you should let your friend join Bret's gang. It's not a very good gang, for one thing. And Bret isn't reliable in dangerous situations." Kevin arched an eyebrow at that as if to say, Go on. Jemaine cleared his throat and shot another glance at his bandmate over his shoulder to make sure he still wasn't listening before adding more quietly, "One time we were attacked and he ran away and left me to die."

"Ah, if that's all--" Kevin gave a dismissive wave of his hand and rolled his eyes. "Ryan and Neil did that to me ages ago. No worries."

"...What?"

"I mean, it wasn't fun getting torn apart by the ghoul," he amended with a shudder at the memory. "But, I couldn't hold it against them."

"But that's-- you should hold that against them," Jemaine hissed, voice rising. He shot a glance out the window at Neil and Ryan, looking upon them with sudden suspicion. "You can't let your friends treat you that way."

"He should hold what against them?" asked Bret, whose attention had finally been pulled from his rescuer by the last part of that.

"Nothing," Jemaine said quickly. Seeing that Mel had left the scene and they were free to leave, he grabbed his bandmate by the sleeve and pulled him along. "C'mon, let's go home."

Ryan showed up at the conchords' apartment bright and early the next morning for gang initiation. That was actually pretty impressive, because Bret didn't remember telling him where they lived. He and Jemaine weren't exactly the earliest risers, so he wasn't sure how long the newest member of his gang had been standing out in the hallway before Bret heard him scratching at the door and let him in.

"So, this is where it all happens, huh?" Ryan said, glancing around wide-eyed as Bret led him through the apartment. It was a bit smaller than the new kids' clubhouse and way smaller than the abandoned property he lived on, but he liked the decor.

"Well, not all of it," Bret said with a shrug. "Some stuff happens other places."

"I see..." Ryan stroked his beard and nodded thoughtfully. His eyes landed on a loom in a corner and he nodded in approval. "Ah, a fellow craftsman, are you?"

"Mm, guess so."

"I don't weave, but check this out--" Ryan reached inside his jacket and drew out a homemade doll which he presented with a grin. "I whipped up this little guy just the other day. Doesn't it look just like Kevin?"

Bret took the doll and turned it over in his hands, lips screwing to the side with a dubious hum. He'd already forgotten what Kevin looked like (though he had a faint recollection of Neil) but he didn't remember him wearing a hat like that. Or having pins sticking out of him. That part seemed really inaccurate. Rather than insult Ryan's handiwork, Bret cleverly evaded the question by shifting the topic.

"One time I made dolls of me and Jemaine. I think I still have them somewhere if you'd like to see them."

"Sure! Sounds great!"

#i had sort of a vague idea of where things would go from there which you can ask me about if you're curious but nothing too developed #hence why i never finished this. because i had only the faintest idea where i might have been going with it #hey did you know that i write stuff sometimes?

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symphonic-scream · 9 months ago

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🫂

Here's some Queers stuff

Specifically, Makoto and Haru, trying to have a kid

So science? Out the window. Keep that in mind

Makoto: hey, Tae. Can I ask you a question, as my doctor?

Tae: sure Sprout, what's up?

Makoto: and you can't tell Sae

Tae: confidentiality, 100%

Makoto: is there anyway that, at this stage, we could do something to get a useable, sample?

Tae: what

Makoto: Haru wants a baby. She admitted while a little drunk on our wedding night she wanted it to be ours. I, haven't told her I heard her. I just, want to know if, I can still give this to her

Tae: ...I'll talk around, get some ideas. I'll do my best, Sprout. The two of you deserve a shot

Makoto gets a call a month later. Tae has a fertility doctor there (in casual clothes), and he lays out his plan with her. They'd half her Estrogen for a bit, and give her another hormone as well. It's technically a female hormone too, but. In a male body, it produces more little swimmers

Makoto: ...I want to try it

Tae: great. And this one is a pill this time

Makoto: oh thank god

Another month later, Tae and the dude check in. He thinks he can work with this, and tells her to let Haru in on it

Haru sobs into her wife's shoulder. There was a chance? And Makoto, was willing to do something like that for her? It meant the world

Haru: what about you? Your shots...

Makoto: I've felt fine so far. I've never been like, horribly dysphoric. My voice won't just drop drastically, and it's only halving it. I'm fine love, especially if I can make you happy

Two and a half years of monthly visits. Two and a half years of monthly results, being told they need to try again. Over and over, heads leaned together quietly in the car, parked. In their own lot. Not going up to their home yet

Then, late May, right after Hifumi moved in, Tae laughs triumphantly from the other room. Makoto watches as her and her doctor friend hug in celebration through the door, before coming to tell them the good news

Tae: Haru, your counts are consistent with early pregnancy. We can't guarantee it'll stick at this stage, so i want you to relax, take it easy, let your body use it's energy to get that little one to a stable stage

Other doctor: next month? We should be able to do a little ultrasound, look at your baby. Congratulations you two, looks like all our hard work has paid off

Haru's sobbing on the little cot, and Makoto is crying, hugging her all happy.

Haru: we did it,,, Mako, we're gonna have a baby!

Makoto: I've never been so happy in my whole life,,

Tae: neither of you should take the train, I'll give you a ride back to Kichijoji. I'll leave you with a good vitamin for Haru to take every morning with breakfast, to make sure we're doing everything for this to stick

Makoto begins her routine of sitting on Haru's legs are she reads a bit before bed, her (borrowed from Makoto) shirt rolled up to reveal her belly

"Hey squirt, this is your mom. The other one, since Haru's got you in there." Traces the bit of pudge Haru has, adoration in her eyes. "I can't wait to meet you, little miracle. Neither can your mama, but she gets to have you now. I can wait while you two bond"

Haru: Mako, Tae said it might not fully take,

Makoto: I, working towards a psych doctorate-

Haru: you're on a years break from your studies

Makoto: not important. I believe, they'll have a better chance if I show em a little love. Your love is what gets me through the day, so

Once they get that confirmation that baby looks like it'll make it, Makoto is asked if she wants to switch back to her regular doses

Makoto: ...if we decide to try for another, would I just have to go through this again? Or would staying on this course be better?

Haru: Makoto-

Tae: honestly? Stay like this for now. As long as you still feel fine, this is safer in that regard. It took so long for this one to go through, there's no guarantee it'll happen again if you stop

Haru: no, she's going back-

Makoto: so you only want one?

Haru:

Makoto: I'll stay on this course. The second I feel bad, I'll go back. I promise. But I don't wanna be the reason we can't have anothrr

Haru, staring at her wife without her shirt, humming and swaying while cradling their son to her chest, a look of complete adoration on her face: oh, we are so having at least another baby

#makoto niijima #haru okumura #okujima #the phantom queers

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lrlamauthor · 1 year ago

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I was supposed to be able to ignore social media all this month, but I keep having stuff to announce. Anyway: 1. Dragonfall got longlisted for the British Fantasy Society Award, which was unexpected but delightful. If you're a member you can vote for the shortlist until Feb 20th. Not really expecting the shortlist since the list is stacked, but still happy to be longlisted. I'm aiming to bring a different approach to gender in epic fantasy with this book, in a genre that is usually fairly traditional in its depiction of gender roles in the name of 'historical accuracy.' Side note, but I've found it...interesting when one of the early, pre-pub reviews I saw (before I stopped looking) complained that the book 'ranted about my gender agenda' when the book has two very short scenes explicitly about gender. Maybe 3 pages in total in a 400+ page book? The first is the last male dragon who has been raised among only women getting a quick primer on how gender works in Loc after he's fallen to the human world and is trying to pretend to be a human himself (he's not very good at it), and the second is the nonbinary character sharing their own experiences of gender. The rest of the time it's just embedded since it's a queernorm world.

I've felt a bit hurt by that, to be quite honest--as a femme presenting AFAB nonbinary person, it reminds me of the occasions where I try to remind people that yes, I am nonbinary, and they'd rather still pretend I'm a woman because I look like one and it's easier for them to not have to think about it. Also no group is a monolith, so even some other NB readers might bounce off the way I want to talk about gender, which is fine. On the flip side, I've received really, really lovely notes from nonbinary and gender non-conforming readers who have felt it's one of the very rare times they've seen themselves represented in fantasy. and that's been really lovely. It's basically why I published the book, even though it was quite personal, and, as the years go on, I find myself increasingly bruised by trying to release art that means something to me in late-stage capitalism. I spent a lot of time last year seriously wondering if I was going to quit publishing once I finished my contracts, I found it so exposing this time around. I cherish every note from a reader that helps me remember my words connected with someone. 2. I thought Dragonfall was only going to be 99p for one day on Amazon UK, but it's still cheap. Grab it if you're in that geographical location if you like. 3. If you're in the US, Barnes & Noble is doing a pre-order sale so you can use PREORDER25 to get 25% off the paperback of Dragonfall, out in June, or you can go to the B&N Emberclaw page and maybe see the cover for it even though it's not yet been officially announced. You didn't hear this from me and when it's officially revealed you have to promise to still act surprised, okay? https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dragonfall-l-r-lam/1141941880?ean=9780756418922

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/emberclaw-l-r-lam/1143890903?ean=9780756418441

Thank you for reading. Ask me about my gay dragon gender agenda.

#dragonfall #epic fantasy #will promotion never stop feeling awkward #no #and yet we persist #in the name of weird queer dragons

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thesakuragarnet · 2 years ago

Text

Embers In The Dark

THIS IS 18+ ONLY!!!!

Summary: Burnin' goes rogue during her night patrol to meet with her lover.

Tags: Dabi X Burnin', rarepair, mild sexual content, implied sexual content, swearing, enemies to lovers, secret relationship, Burnin' is secretly a member of the PLF, smoking, established relationship, pre-paranormal liberation war arc, light smut, slight romantic fluff, grinding/kissing

Word Count: 1,904 words

AO3 link

It's the middle of the night, and Burnin' got approved for one of the many night shifts at Endeavor's Agency. However, tonight, her "hero" duties are the last things on her mind. Instead, the text on her phone is burned into her brain.

Staples: Meeting. 10.

Moe Kamiji wasn't just an ordinary sidekick; she was a member of the Paranormal Liberation Front. Burnin', Endeavor's top sidekick, was one of many Pro Heroes plotting to take down the society that handed them their paychecks. They had eyes everywhere...in politics, in business, in the field; it was inevitable that one lived at least within 1000 feet of a PLF member. She had managed to keep a low profile...for the most part, other than establishing herself as Endeavor's right hand and catching the eyes of a notorious A-rank villain. Dabi had noticed Burnin' the moment she was hired by Endeavor's Agency. Part of him felt like she was just as much of a replacement for him as Shoto had been. She was always cleaning up his father's messes, operating side by side with him...they even shared a birthday, which Dabi thought was especially odd. In truth, he was a bit jealous. Despite not having the Pro Hero recognition that he had craved growing up, she still received ample amounts of his father's attention. He'd gotten close to revealing his true identity to her several times when they'd had fights about Endeavor. Sure, Burnin' believed he was just as corrupt as the system that kept him employed, but Dabi knew the truth. He wanted Moe to know the truth, but...that would be too far. After all, their relationship was casual. It was quiet. He was sure Compress was the only one who had seen them slip into Dabi's quarters every so often, and Dabi knew he'd keep his mouth shut unless he wanted his other arm to be fried off.

Their relationship had merely started as a one-night stand. To Dabi, it was more like a hatefuck. There had been a grand PLF meeting that all of the satellite Pros attended, and Moe caught Dabi's eye from the stage. He'd meet with his newest pet, Hawks, briefly, before stalking straight toward her. He'd demanded to know her convictions, demanded to know why exactly she was there, and demanded to know more intel on Endeavor. Relishing in the power she seemed to hold just out of Dabi's reach, she'd toyed with the villain, explaining that if he wanted information, he'd have to be nicer about it. Dabi didn't take that well at all.

The next morning, he'd expected her to be gone and back to her precious Agency. What he didn't expect was her to wake him up with forehead kisses and gentle strokes through his hair. It caught him off guard. The first time, it made him irrationally angry. She was just playing with his emotions...or at least that's what his brain told him. By the fourth time, he stopped pushing her away and closing himself off; she'd even helped him clean his scars and change out his staples.

Moe walks down the dimly lit street, head held high and eyes scanning her surroundings. Their usual meeting point was at the next block in the alleyway. Moe looks around, making sure that prying eyes aren't stalking her before she swiftly turns...and stops cold. The dim blue light of Dabi's cigarette burns rather brightly as he inhales, smoke blowing out his nose when he takes the thin object from between his lips and crushes it to ashes in his palm.

"You're early," Moe hums, crossing her arms over her chest. Dabi's usually late.

"Decided to end my meeting with the bird ahead of schedule. I...wanted to see you," Dabi admits slowly, as if the words pain him to speak aloud.

"Oh, really," Moe smirks, her copper flame hair casting shadows on the walls as she struts toward the villain. Dabi's gaze is cold but shaky. After forcing himself to bottle up his intense emotions for years, he has trouble expressing them at all. He looks down his nose at her as she stops in front of him, a mischievous smile on her face. Dabi rolls his eyes as more smoke billows out of his nostrils, though whether that's from the cigarette or his Quirk is unclear.

"Why exactly did you wanna meet so late with me?" Burnin' grins, knowing the answer by Dabi's mannerisms. He only smokes when he's trying to distract himself from something. The hunger in his gaze is palpable.

"Some top sidekick you are if you can't figure me out yet," Dabi spits with a familiar biting edge to his voice. Moe loves messing with him.

"Oh, Dabi, I figured you out a long time ago," Moe teases, but her words send a chill down Dabi's spine. He can't have her finding him out. A twist of anger bubbles in his heart, mixing with the carnal emotions already coursing through his veins. He needs to get it out. Without a word, he grabs her, and Moe yelps in surprise before Dabi silences her with a deep, lustful kiss. She cringes momentarily at the taste of the cigarettes before she breathes in Dabi's scent. Dabi always smelled clean...more like sterile from how often he had to clean his wounds to avoid going septic. Like an ashy hospital with a hint of whatever cheap cologne he used. Moe didn't care. Part of her liked it. Soon, Burnin' melts into the kiss, letting Dabi walk her backward until her back is against the wall, their lips never once breaking contact. Gruffly, he grips her shoulders, pinning her to the brick as he bites her lip; his chest heaves from how hard he's breathing.

"Dabi," Burnin' moans breathlessly against him as he grabs her chin, lifting her head up to sink his teeth into her neck. His other hand travels down her body, ghosting tentatively over her chest and moving down her sides, gripping her thigh with his jagged fingernails.

"Fuck. Why can't your costume have a higher collar or some shit," Dabi snaps under his breath, wishing he could leave more marks. Moe chuckles, but her laugh dissolves into a passionate sigh as Dabi wraps his arm around her waist, pulling them close until their hips are pressed against one another. She can feel his hard-on through both of their clothes.

"That down bad for a Pro Hero's sidekick, huh?" Burnin' smirks mockingly, but Dabi ignores her. If he thinks about it too much, his horniness is gonna be overcome with disgust. He doesn't want reminding that he's fallen in...something with Endeavor's top sidekick. Even if her convictions align with his own, the mere concept still leaves a bad taste in his mouth. His brain and his heart are constantly at war over this...thing that he has. These emotions that he doesn't want to give names to.

"Shut up," Dabi mutters coldly, clicking off the fire extinguisher on the back of her costume and discarding it on the ground. Before Burnin' can make a witty comeback, he swiftly spins her around, pressing her up against the wall so he can grind against her backside.

"Ooooh. Feisty are we? Gonna pull my hair, too?" Burnin' teases playfully as she rolls her hips against him, making the friction almost unbearable for Dabi. A low, cracking moan leaves his lips before he does just that; the villain grabs her ponytail and jerks it, arching her back and making her cry out in surprise before her sweet voice dissolves into a pleasured sigh. The pain is minimal compared to the strength of his own flames, and he grabs the flaming green strands with ease. Dabi leans forward and licks up the side of her neck, his breaths coming out hot and heavy with every thrust against her.

"Fuck," He groans, eyes rolling back into his head as he reaches around, his hand slipping beneath her costume and rubbing against the outside of her panties. Burnin' melts into his touch, bracing her hands against the wall to avoid sliding down it as she moans his villain name over and over.

"God, Dabi," She moans, grinding against his fingers until his dark laugh is in her ear.

"Folding so quickly for me. No more comebacks?" Dabi snickers between labored breaths. He doesn't know how much longer he can keep their clothes on. Burnin' doesn't answer; she can't at this point. Her mouth hangs agape; satisfied, high-pitched breaths are forced out of her with every motion.

Suddenly, a grating voice crackles through the speaker in Dabi's ear.

"Dabi. You're needed at the PLF headquarters," Skeptic says flatly, and Dabi promptly pulls his hand from between her legs, covering Moe's mouth with it before he presses the microphone in his ear.

"I'll be there in a few hours," Dabi responds, trying to keep his voice even. Before he can remove his hand, Skeptic's already yelling.

"No! Not in a few hours! Now! Immediately!"

"Get off my ass, weirdo. I'm busy at the moment," Dabi retorts, anger coating his tone.

"Would you like Geten to simply call all the shots for your Regiment at this meeting, then?" Skeptic trills mockingly, and Dabi's eyebrows furrow. He sighs.

"I'll be there. Let me tell Ujiko," The villain growls, and he hears Skeptic's triumphant hum from the other end of the line before it goes dead. Dabi drops his hands, and Burnin' gasps for breath, turning around to face him.

"You're leaving?" She mutters, disappointed. Dabi shrugs.

"I don't trust the ice bastard to make the right decisions. Sorry, darling," Dabi grumbles, gritting his teeth at how insanely aroused he is. If Moe wasn't on duty tonight, he'd take her with him. He takes a deep breath before gripping her waist and pulling her in for a final kiss. Moe melts at his touch once again, her arms gently wrapping around his neck, softly stroking the hair on the back of his head. Dabi hums softly into the kiss, indulging in the passion, albeit only for a moment. His tongue prods at her bottom lip, and she eagerly meets it with her own. Dabi groans, his fingernails digging into her hero Suit as he balls his hands into fists; part of him just wants to rip it off of her altogether. He wants nothing more than to claim her in this alley...but...he has work to do. With a choked growl of annoyance and regret, he breaks the kiss, forcing himself to tear away from her.

"I'll see you again soon, Staples," Burnin' grins, wiping the spit off her lips from the sloppy kiss with her sleeve. Dabi's eyes soften at the silly pet name, but he blinks it away almost instantly. Moe steps back.

"Ready, Ujiko," Dabi mutters into the microphone in his jacket. Without warning, he lurches, black ooze pouring from his mouth and surrounding him. His shimmering cerulean eyes gaze into Moe's red-orange ones until they're covered in inky sludge. With a sudden splash, he disappears; a simple puddle of the dark slime remains where Dabi once stood.

"They've gotta get a better way of transport," Moe huffs, edging away from the gross substance. She looks up at the stars in the sky, and they twinkle back at her.

"Goodnight, Dabi," Burnin' whispers to the empty alleyway.

#dabi x burnin #my hero academia fanfiction #fanfic #ao3 writer #dabi #ao3 #moe kamiji #bnha burnin #mha burnin #bnha smut #rarepair #bnha dabi #mha dabi #touya todoroki #todoroki touya #kamiji moe

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