#the author is also bi so yeah here we are

[victavare]

So it’s bi visibility day huh :}

[unproduciblesmackdown]

truly lmao 2024 lambda literary award finalist wynnstannery

[marciliedonato]

Don't ask:

- a man, his salary

- A woman, her age

- And a tumblrina (gn) who they voted for in the nge/moomin poll....

[elisiafarias]

How would the Linkuei trío react when they found out that you were pregnant?Updated!!!

Sumary: pregnant Reader, Tomas, Bi han, Kuai Liang

Author's note: finally added all the boys

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❄️Ｂｉ　ｈａｎ　花イ波❄️

You were looking for your husband, you knew he could be training his new initiate.

However, you decided to go back to your room, you got nervous because you didn't know what his reaction would be, although you already knew your husband very well, this will change your lives a lot, and you were also afraid that he would be too strict with his future child.

You walked into your room and closed the door quickly.

You hadn't realized that Bi Han was already inside, he was changing his clothes. When you looked at him you froze.

He was bare-chested, While he was holding the top of his clothing in his hands, he began to raise an eyebrow.

-Wife.- He began to speak calmly but with a doubtful tone, he knew that something was wrong with you.

-Oh you were here *nervous laugh* I thought you were training Frost today.-You responded, trying to deflect the discomfort that your entry generated.

-We finished training early.- Your husband responded.

-Let me help you.- You told your husband trying to get him to give you his clothes to send to wash, however your husband's response was to take his clothes away from you.

-What's happening? - He asked with a frown.

-Nothing, I just wanted to come and rest, you know that yesterday I felt a little sick.- You respond him without looking at his eyes

-So you were feeling so bad that you came running?-He asked as if he wanted to get information from you, he already knew you were lying.

-Yeah, I was getting a little dizzy, I...I.-You couldn't finish talking

At that moment you didn't know why, but you began to feel so much pressure that your eyes began to water.You were afraid of everything in the future

Bi Han didn't know what he had done wrong, but internally he knew that his questioning of you triggered that reaction.

But strangely for you, he sat next to the bed and took your hand.You began to walk towards him while caressing his hand, and you sat on his lap.

-Tell me what happened- Your husband ask you as if someone had done something to you.

-I'm sorry for reacting like this, I'm a little sensitive...I spoke to the doctor today.-You began to speak.

Bi Han raised an eyebrow (again), he started to think that you were going to say that you have a serious illness.

-I'm pregnant.- You finaly said.

You saw a change in your husband's eyes, his eyes began to light up, it's the first time you've seen him excited like that.

Then he put his hand on your belly.

-He will be the first Lin kuei of our generation- He said with a sweet voice.

You began to caress his dark hair and then kissed his head.

-Remember the baby may be a girl too.- You said.

-I don't care this baby has the blood of a Linkuei... And is ours.- He responded proudly.

-Just try not to be so demanding with him.- You told him, he then looked at you.

-As you wish- Said your Husband.

Deep down you knew he wasn't being sincere, although you know he would try hard to work on it, and you would help him too.

But in the end you were happy, because you knew that you were the most important thing to your husband and he would love his future child unconditionally.

Tomas

You were anxiously waiting for your husband, today you went to the town doctor to confirm your suspicions.

Even though you already knew it deep inside, the news gave you unexpected happiness, because you created a life with the man you loved, In the afternoon you took the time to buy a present for your husband, and planning all the words you were going to say to him.

It was already 7 pm and you had arrived at 5 pm, you were impatient, you knew that Tomas was training his new clan together with his brother, but this time the wait for you seemed eternal.

Until you could finally see your husband from the window in the distance, you prepared everything and hid.

-Hello, I'm here.- You heard Tomas say as he entered.

-Y/N? Where are you? -He asked worriedly, you were always there to receive him.

You laughed to yourself from your room.

Then Tomas saw a wrapped gift, with a note that said "for Tomas", inside the note it said, "I'm excited to meet you in the coming months." After reading it he still didn't understand anything.

Then you stood behind him and hugged him from behind.

-I'm so happy you're here.- you said excitedly. Your husband looked at you in disbelief.

-Yes…Well, I went alone for a few hours.- He answered.

You laughed and took the gift.

-I thought you understood the message, let's open it.- You told him, looking him straight in the eyes, trying to show where your emotion was coming from.

Your husband was still in disbelief, then he started to open the gift. When he opened it he realized that they were small shoes, and he came with a teddy bear.

He looked at the gift for a few seconds then raised his head and looked at you with lit up eyes.

-Wait… Tell me it's not a joke.- He said with a smile.

Then you took his hand and placed it on your belly.

-I would never joke with something like that my love.- You responded excitedly as you caressed his hand.

Tomas, after processing it for a second, hugged you and lifted you up carefully, giving you a spin. They both laughed with happiness.

Then he lowered you and stood at the height of your belly. Inside him he thought of all the happiness ahead. Tomas wanted to give his future son the same teaching that his adoptive father gave him.

-I will protect him with my life.- Your husband said while caressing your belly.You felt butterflies like the first time you fell in love with him.

-You have to live for us.- You replied, you didn't want to lose your husband.

He then got up to your height and kissed your forehead.

-I will.- He responded as he caressed your head.

-Come on, we have to tell Kuai Liang- he said while he headed to the door.

You laughed and took his hand.

-Honey, let's wait until tomorrow, your brother must be very busy with Harumi, remember that lately they have little time together.- You told your husband.

-Please, I'm impatient, I already want to tell him that we are going to expand the family- Tomas responded excitedly.

-Tomorrow we will tell him, we can have a lunch to tell him the news....¿What do you think? - You proposed to your husband, he just nodded his head.

-I prefer breakfast- your husband responded. You smiled

-Okay, we'll make breakfast and we'll tell them.-You responded defeated.

Then Tomas kissed you, you both felt like you were in love for the second time. Inside you felt that you couldn't have chosen a better husband.The universe and life smiled at you.

Kuai Liang 蒯良

You went to look for your husband, you had to give him some very important news that you received this morning with the doctor, you wanted to wait for him to get home but just today he was taking too long.

It was already night so you went to Harumi's compound, since there they were training their new initiates, that boy Hanzo was very skilled for his age.

When you arrived you saw your husband in the distance, he was walking with Harumi… You didn't know whether to interrupt so you just managed to observe from afar. You knew that Harumi was not a bad person, but you were worried about the fact that she is so close to Kuai Liang, after everything that happened with Bi Han, she has given him all the help she has.

And the only thing you have been able to give him is only your loyalty. For this reason you feel insecure next to her, since you felt that you could not give him all that help to defeat his brother.

-Harumi, I want to thank you for everything you have done for me this time, your help turned out to be invaluable.-Your husband said as he put his hand on Harumi's shoulder.

She smiled. -It is the least I can do, since they have acted without honor, we cannot let their corruption continue.- She responded. Kuai Liang just smiled proudly.

-As a way of thanking you, I will name my clan with your last name, The shirai ryu.- Said your husband.

Those words felt like a dagger in the heart for you, however he was not being unfaithful to you, but for some reason that closeness and affection that he had for Harumi kept making you uncomfortable.

Was he falling in love with her? Would it be a good idea to tell him about your pregnancy now? Would he feel tied down by having a baby with you?

While you were thinking hidden in the tree, you didn't realize that a person stood behind you.

-¿Y/N, what are you doing here?.- You recognized that voice and your skin crawled, and your heart started beating very fast.

You looked at Kuai Liang and then at the place where he had been talking to his friend… he was already gone. ¿At what point had he said goodbye to Harumi?

-Husband *nervous laugh*, I didn't expect to find you so soon, I was bored and you weren't coming back so I thought I'd come see you.- You said very nervous.

The grand master looked at you strangely, he knew you were hiding something, but it seems like he ignored it.

-You shouldn't go out at this time, remember that you are convalescent.- He said. Then he took some bags that you were carrying in your hands.

Then they both started walking towards their home.

-Don't exaggerate, it's not like I would have gotten deathly ill.-You said with a smile, trying to calm the situation.

-Why did you buy so many things? There is enough food in the house, maybe we are celebrating something?.-Your husband asked.

You just raised both eyebrows, you did it on purpose to play with him.

-I do not know you tell me.- You answered with a smile.

-You know we don't celebrate birthdays.- He responded a little nervously. You started to laugh

-Do you think my birthday is today? When is my birthday?.-You asked playfully. Even though you know they didn't celebrate their birthdays, you never told him yours.

It gave you too much tenderness to see how your husband was confused.

As you two walked across the bridge, you stopped walking.

-It will be someone else's birthday in 9 months.-You finally said.

Then you saw how the grandmaster turned to see you with a confused look.Then he approached you

-What?.- He ask still confused, apparently he is beginning to understand the message.

-There's something of yours growing inside me.- You said while touching your belly.

Kuai Liang looked at you with an excited smile and his eyes lit up. He threw the bags

-Is this for real? .- He asked with a soft tone of voice, while he began to caress your head with his hands.

-Yes…I'm really sorry, I know that in these circumstances it is not good to bring children, you have your priority to find your brother, restore the honor of the Lin.-You were interrupted by the grand master who began to kiss your forehead.

Then he joined his forehead with yours while caressing you.

-It is the best news I have ever received.-He responded, then hugged you.-If my father were alive, this news would fill him with happiness, being a grandfather, he always talked to me about the responsibilities of a father.

-I am sure that you will honor his memory, you will be a great father just like he was to you.-You said as you caressed his cheek. He took your hand and planted a kiss on it.

Then upon arriving home, he decided to cook with you for the first time while hugging you from behind and caressing your belly. The next few weeks and months he banned you from almost all training, he only let you practice hitting, and unfortunately he kept you out of the whole conflict with Bi Han, but you couldn't debate him because you knew he did it to protect you two.

[doki-doki-imagines]

Hi! If requests are still open can i request mk1 men with an angel reader? Thanks!

author note: Earthrealm guys for my own sainty🫡

Johnny Cage: -"Have you fallen from Heaven? Cuz' you are an angel." "It's exactly what happened." "…Seriously? We should totally make-" "No." -The man is so curious. -He flirts here and there, but mostly, he just wants to know how angels work and how it is up there. -Maybe some juicy info will slip, and Johnny will be able to make a movie out of it…

Kenshi Takahashi: -When everybody told him you are an angel, Kenshi thought you were just a nice person. -When Johnny told him you are an angel, Kenshi thought you were also beautiful. -For sure, Kenshi never thought of feeling feathers when you protected him during a fight. -"So you are an angel." He says, breathless. "Yeah, nobody told you?" -"Will my sins be forgiven?" "My Lord welcomes every sinner seeking redemption."

Raiden: -Literal angel meets metaphorical angel. -Every time you two meet in the same room, you make it shine for how nice and good you both are. -You are both so sweet that Lao swears that some of his teeth rooted. -"Can I touch them?" "The wings?" Raiden nods. -Best experience ever: 10/10. It felt like caressing a cub and heart is relaxed better than any medicine could ever do.

Kung Lao: -"You are wayyy too nice." "I'll take it as a compliment." -He teases you restlessly, Lao wanna see the angel snap back at him. -If only he knew what you went through, he'd understand that his chances are less than zero. -The real surprise will be when you'll tease him. -"You are so cute when you blush, Lao." "????" -He is going to get you back for this.

Liu Kang: -"Do not be afraid." "Did you just steal my line?" -You are not the first angel he has seen, but it's been so long since he has been in contact with one that he'll try to keep you as long as possible on Earthrealm. -"Your presence has been healing for everyone. They hope you'll stay here for much longer." "Aren't you sure that "they" isn't just you, Liu Kang?" -Seeing him choke on his tea was a real sight, almost heavenly.

Geras: -It's not the first time Geras meets an angel, so he won't be surprised by you. -He likes to chit-chat, tho! You are both so old you for sure have a lot of stories to tell to each other. -Geras appreciates your help keeping the timelines safe, so he'll always be ready to give you a hand if you need it.

Bi-Han: -"What should I be afraid of? You are nothing more than a mythological chicken." Shows angelic true form "…fuck" -He won't treat you with any respect unless you defeat him in a fight. -Your true form will haunt him in his nightmares, tho. -"Repent Bi-Han." -Maybe an angel is the push he needs.

Kuai Liang: -He is so respectful to you, bowing every time he greets you. -Wouldn't mind training with you, and don't you dare go easy on him! -"Are my flames as hot as hell ones?" "Dear, I'm sorry, but I'm not a fallen angel. For sure, your smile is bright as our light." -Congrats! You made Liang blush, shy smile on his face making him uncharacteristically cute.

Tomas Vrbada: -"Have you fallen from Hea-" "Sorry Tomas, Johnny already tried it." "Damn it!" -Tomas looks so sweet that he reminds you of your brothers. -Too bad that then you remember his work… -He is really curious so you'll be asked a lot about your past and family. -"Are my mom and sister fine?" "I'm sorry Tomas I can't reveal anything. But relax, they are in good hands."

[ya-what--ya-erster]

Spot Conlon Likes Idiots

Inspired by @lithuaniaseye 's post here

606 words

Farm kid Race written by actual farm kid Albert (hi)

...

...

It wasn't news that Race was a farm kid. 

Race was the ultimate  farm kid. He was tall, and skinny, and appeared to have no muscle at all, but he could toss you over a fence like a hay bale. He wore Twisted X shoes and faded boot cut jeans and shirts with American flags and guns on them. He carried his pocket knife around religiously, constantly fiddling with it like it was a toy. He could ride a horse, and he could try (and fail) to ride a bull in a rodeo. 

He was also really gay, though, and those two things happened to not go very well together. 

Not necessarily because of hate, although sometimes that did occur.

Mostly, being a gay farm boy was a problem for Race because he had a tendency to flirt with his farmer-ness. 

"It's gonna work this time, Jack." Race said certainly. 

"You look like you're gonna go kick his ass. Which you couldn't do, by the way. Spot's like, ten times stronger than you." Jack replied. 

"I just want to ask him to come to the rodeo with us, is it really that bad?"

"What's bad is that Spot's a city kid, and you ain't, and you dress like all those homophobic shitheads over there while Spot's openly bi. Do you understand what's gonna go through his head, Racer?"

"Do you want me to paint my nails or some bullshit? I don't gotta 'look gay,' whatever that means."

"Actually. I'm gonna make a bet with you here. You're gonna ask him out, to the rodeo. If he says no, you are  going to paint your nails. If he says yes, which he won't, then I will. Left on for a week. Deal?"

"No deal. If you paint your nails when ya lose, nobody will notice. You are the most obviously queer person in this room right now. If you lose, you're gonna wear my clothes for a week."

"I ain't losing, so. Sure thing."

The two boys shook on it. Race took a breath and turned to go, but...

"Oh yeah, I forgot." Race plucked a barley stalk out of the ground and stuck it in his mouth like-

"One of them damn buckle bunnies, that's what you look like right now. You look like an idiot." Jack was not having it. 

"Do ya think Spot likes idiots?" Race asked absentmindedly, staring at Spot. 

"You moron. Go, get it over with."

So Race marched up to Spot, loud and proud. 

"Hey."

"You know, I'm just trying to have a good time, I don't need any of your bullshit today." Spot said roughly.

"I was wondering if- wait what?" Race stopped.

"So I'm bi? Deal with it."

"Ohh darn, Jack was right."

"Kelly?"

"Yeah, Kelly. He said you was gonna think that- never mind, I ain't here to bully ya or anything."

"Okay, well? What do you want, then?"

"I'm gay."

Spot looked Race up and down, then scoffed. 

"Uh-huh."

"For reals."

"Alright. Good to know, bye." Spot took a step away, but Race caught him by the arm and turned him back. 

"I was wondering," Race said slowly, "If maybe you would want to go to the rodeo with me tonight? Like, as a date?"

Spot pulled his arm away from Race, and Race worried for a second that he was gonna walk away with a split lip or a black eye. 

"Sure thing. Let me text my Ma and let her know I'll be out late, yeah?"

...

"How do you wear this shit?" Jack asked the next day, standing before Race's full-length mirror. 

"Cause I like it. And now you have to deal with it for a whole week. Enjoy! I gotta go pick Spot up for school."

...

THE END

...

...

hi its the author I just realized y'all city ppl probs actually don't know what a buckle bunny is so where I come from we use it to describe someone who dresses like this, or basically like anyone who looks like a fake country person. The whole wheat in the mouth thing doesn't actually happen all that often which is why it tends to fall under the buckle bunny label.

Also, I used barley instead of wheat in this for me being a farm kid purposes so

[wellbelesbian]

Seven Sentence Sunday

thanks for tagging me @hushed-chorus!

here's another snippet from my Shoulder To Shoulder sequel fic. i had originally wanted to post it yesterday as that was the day of Durham Miner's Gala, but didn't finish it on time, so i'll just post it when i get it done.

Even the yellow and white LGSM banner is smaller than most here, made with wood, fabric and paint we could get for cheap from hardware and crafts stores.

"Now, that's just showing off." Niamh rolls her eyes as another banner passes us. It's twice the size of most of the others, a portrait of four bland, blonde men shaking hands while limply holding a clover, thistle, rose and daffodil. At the top it reads Durham Miner's Association, Trimdon Grange Colliery, and at the bottom, Unity is strength.

"Do you think they're compensating for something?" Agatha nudges Baz suggestively and he shakes his head with a chuckle.

rambling and banner photos below the cut

i'm allowed to make fun of the trimdon grange banner, it's my hometown's and everyone agrees is stupidly large and hard to carry. why does it need this massive red trim? just to be big and obnoxious!

(picture is my own)

anyway. i said this in my author's note at the beginning of Shoulder To Shoulder, but my great uncle Tommy (my grandad's big sister's husband) was a big figure in the Miner's Union. he died of cancer about ten years back and hundreds of miners came to his funeral to pay their respects.

his side of the family lives pretty far away, and i don't get to see them often, but yesterday was Durham Big Meeting (also known as the Miner's Gala), a huge gathering of ex-miners where they march with their banners. it's a celebration and memorial in one. and this year, my uncle has been painted on a new banner (he's the one in the middle), so my extended family came up for the weekend. turnout was actually lower than usual due to the rain, but ah well.

my great auntie, his wife, asks me every time i see her "have you got a girlfriend yet?" (i'm chronically single 😭) and told me she wishes her husband had still been alive when their grandson came out, and could have met his boyfriend. i have every faith that he would have been an ally, just like her. he was such a strong, funny, loving man.

so yeah. this new fic was inspired by that banner (also the Mark Ashton Trust and LGSM banners) and the Miner's Gala, and then I decided to explore more things Simon and Baz would have lived through between the end of STS and now.

hopefully i can finish it in at least a somewhat timely manner.

tags and hellos: @forabeatofadrum @j-nipper-95 @artsyunderstudy @that-disabled-princess @prettygoododds @confused-bi-queer @imagineacoolusername @ic3-que3n @aristocratic-otter @larkral @ivelovedhimthroughworse @cutestkilla @shemakesmeforget @fatalfangirl @ebbpettier @you-remind-me-of-the-babe @alexalexinii @youarenevertooold @shrekgogurt @bookish-bogwitch @thewholelemon @shutup-andletme-go @supercutedinosaurs @theearlgreymage @ileadacharmedlife @alleycat0306 @carryonsimoncarryonbaz @comesitintheclover @blackberrysummerblog @orange-peony and @noblecorgi

[midethefangirl]

i’m weak, so what’s wrong with that (reworked)

🏷️: fade to black, bireena, reference to toxic masculinity, and there was only one bed, touch starved bi han, author wrote this instead of sleeping 🤪💀💀

a/n: as noted in the previous version, this is inspired by @ladybug023 spy!Sareena headcanons. gotta give honour to whom it is due.

I know I said I’d upload this a few weeks back and I apologize for the delay. I was wrapping up my finals and I’ll be graduating this week, thank God! 🥰

enough of me rambling about my life, lol, I found myself rereading the previous version and I found myself cringing and I wanted to rework this. I just hope this turns out to be better than its predecessor.

again, I apologize for the delay and yeah, that is it from me.

tagging: @livingdeadgirly

word count: ~3.5k words

also on AO3 (if you’re like me and you despise reading long text on Tumblr)

“Stay still,” she said firmly, lightly pressing the warm wet cloth on his arm, cleaning up the slight gash on his upper arm.

A slight wince left Bi-Han’s lips, a glare on his face as he stared back at the woman before him. His eyes narrowed at the sight of her - her black hair with the white streak tied back to avoid them getting in the way and her face fixed in concentration. She was the reason why they were both here, in the first place - in this little shack in the mountains, hiding from the Tengu.

“You do not command me, woman,” he sneered and her head snapped up to meet him. Her eyes narrowed back at him before she rolled them.

“Maybe you should tend your injuries yourself then,” she gave him a sarcastic smile and almost then he was about to snatch the cloth away from her until she sent him a stare that read ‘are you serious?’

With a huff, he gave in, staying rooted. How can a woman be so infuriating and yet so intriguing? Even more so, how could he be so weak to fall for his protégée?

“We would not be in this situation if you had not chosen to defy me,” he changed the subject and she stared back up at him again.

She looked like she was about to say something but she bit on her full lower lip before turning back her attention to his arm. Almost then, Bi-Han wanted to reach for her head and feel her lower lip with his thumb.

So fucking pathetic and weak.

“We’d have been dead by now if we went with your plans, Bi-Han,” Sareena finally replied. “The Tengu are more advanced than what we had believed and they could have killed us both.”

He quelled the urge to protest even though he knew she was right. They were severely underprepared and lucky to have escaped with only a few injuries.

“We barely escaped with a few wounds, your plans would have our heads on a pike, Grandmaster,” her eyes rolled at his title. Okay, maybe not his title as his father, Zhāofēi still ruled the Lin Kuei.

Yet, he despised how his protégée held his soon-to-be title with contempt. It was a shame he could not punish her for that or even get rid of her - a doing of his father’s meddling. That she was his student was a headache on its own and another machination of his father.

Sareena had walked into the Lin Kuei, defeated a few initiates and managed to win over the hearts of everyone, including his father. For as long as Bi-Han could remember, Zhāofēi was not a man easily swayed by gimmicks and he would know that being the oldest son of the grandmaster.

And yet, all it took was her stepping in to take down her opponents for Zhāofēi to recruit her and place her under his tutelage.

“All done,” she announced finally and he snatched his arm away from her before turning away. “You are unbelievable, you know that?”

He did not need to maintain eye contact to know exactly what her facial expression was right now. He could imagine her supple lips pouting and her eyes narrowing at him as she carried that questioning look on her face.

How can anyone be this infuriating and yet pleasing to the eyes?

He could not lie to himself as much as he wanted to deny it, no matter how much. Those feelings he had kept hidden for the past two years of being her master threatened to break through the walls he had carefully built for years.

Bringing her along with him on this mission was a bad idea. Yet, he could not defy the grandmaster, not even if said grandmaster was his own father.

The relationship with his father has always been tense even before Sareena walked her way into the clan but the tension grew even worse the moment his father insisted on him taking her under his tutelage.

It seemed to be that despite the passage of years, the old man would keep on prioritizing outsiders over his own son.

First, it had been that orphan, the guilt of being partly responsible for the deaths of his family had clouded the judgment of an old man. That same guilt had led to him opening his home to Tomas, not just making him a member of the clan responsible for him being an orphan, but also adopting him as one of his sons.

Even a younger Bi-Han in his teenage years could see how fucked up that decision was on Zhāofēi’s part but he knew better than to question his father. Instead, he had distanced himself from Tomas.

Zhāofēi may have brought him in, made him wear the Lin Kuei insignia but Bi-Han had sworn to never acknowledge him as one of them.

It was so laughable how history repeats itself with Zhāofēi forcing another outsider on him and unlike Tomas whom he could keep his distance from, there was no way he could do that with Sareena.

He had tried every method in the book, from being not just literally but also metaphorically cold. He had even made sure his training was as tough as it could be, after all, he was infamous on the Lin Kuei for not holding back.

To his chagrin, Sareena could hold her own against him, although with a few bruises on her body as evidenced by her visits to the medical room.

To make it worse was this tight feeling in his chest that almost had him breathless each time she stepped into the trading room. That and that feeling which threatened to choke him each time he saw Tomas around her.

Tomas might believe he was hiding his feelings but to anyone who had eyes to see, they were so glaringly obvious that a blind man could see them.

As much as he hated to acknowledge the existence of the gray-cladded assassin, Bi-Han knew when to give the honor where it was due and Tomas was a formidable warrior in his own right. The man had been born without powers of his own and came into this clan a whimpering weakling after the old man had brought him in.

That had not stopped Tomas from training extra hard to prove himself, even to the point of using the ancient books and consulting the clan’s elders to acquire his own powers. If that was not dedication in itself.

But hell, was Tomas too obvious with his attraction towards Sareena. At best, Bi-Han could describe him as a pathetic puppy pining after its owner for a grain of attention. It was just annoying and pitiful to see. Like it is pitiful seeing you pant after her as well.

At least, he knew how to keep those feelings buried deep inside. Until now…

It had to do something with this stupid cramped up shack they found themselves in as a temporary source of shelter. He could only pray to some god out there, probably Liu Kang, that he made it out without succumbing to his weakness.

“Bi-Han.”

And there was his kryptonite at the foot of the door, her hand on the handle. She had an eyebrow raised at his earlier distraction. He could already tell that she had some witty remark in her arsenal by the twitch at the corner of her lips.

“Being distracted is not a good look for the future grandmaster.”

And there it was.

He scoffed, looking away from her. The door creaked slightly, immediately alerting him as he turned his attention towards the source of the sound.

“And where do you think you are going?”

“To patrol. I thought it would be best if-.”

“The Tengu would not find us here,” he cut in before looking up at her.

“You are so unbelievable, Bi-Han. Way too confident that the Tengu would not sniff out our location faster than a bloodhound,” she countered, defiant as usual and it grated on his already frayed nerves.

He was already on his feet faster than he could process it, his frame right in front of her.

“Must you always defy me, Sareena? Do you get a kick from this drivel?”

His stance coupled with his gravelly voice would have intimidated a clan member of a less position. But the woman before him did not seem phased by him and had quite the audacity for someone who was supposed to be his protegee.

“I may be your ‘disciple’ but that does not make me a blind follower of yours, Bi-Han. You cannot just assume we are out of the Tengu’s radar because we are in the middle of nowhere,” she shot back and he let out a huff of annoyance.

As much as he hated to admit it, she was right and it made him turn away as he muttered under his breath, “I will keep patrol and you stay here for the meantime.”

“But your injuries-,” she protested but Bi-Han could already see that from afar as he cut in.

“Will be fine, Sareena. Do not waste your time arguing with me,” he added with a warning tone and he watched her features relax as she pushed lightly at him.

He stepped aside, his eyes tracking her movement from where she was to the bed.

“Since you insisted, grandmaster,” she shrugged, taking her seat on the bed which was weirdly comfortable for one in a little cabin in the middle of nowhere. “Wake me up when it is my turn to take over patrolling.”

He said nothing, letting out a grunt as he made his way outside. It was the least he could do for now.

What was the mission again? Sareena found herself sighing as she melted into the comfort of the bed she laid on.

As much as she wanted to indulge in its comforting embrace and fall asleep, her mind kept on reminding her of how limited her time was. Quan Chi had to be growing impatient, given the kind of man he was.

Aside from the constant reminder of a certain Outworld sorcerer, there was the fact that this day also had to mark five Earthrealm years of Ashrah leaving the Netherrealm.

Being the closest to Ashrah, Sareena had been the first person the former had revealed her plan of leaving to, even extending the offer for her to escape the Netherrealm with her.

“Do you not want to see realms beyond the fiery skies?”

There were occasions when Sareena pondered on why she had declined. Maybe it was the fear of the unknown that held her back, after all, the Netherrealm was what she knew her whole life.

And there was Quan Chi ruling over the Netherrealm like the tyrant he was. The moment Ashrah had left, he had sent out fellow sisters to assassinate her. Given that none of them returned, it was safe to say that they had met their ends at Ashrah’s Datusha.

It had gotten to the part where the Sisterhood of Shadows dreaded being the ones called on to assassinate Ashrah. Aside from the likelihood of being killed in self-defense, Ashrah was still a sister regardless.

Even if she had made the conscious decision to turn her back on the Sisterhood, even if Kia forbade the rest of them from uttering her name, even if Ashrah was forced to have her sisters die by Datusha’s blade.

Five years had passed and now, Sareena found herself in the same position as she believed Ashrah had been those years ago. It had started so slowly like a seed planted in the ground of her heart and allowed to take root before germinating.

Yet, a lot of things hung in the balance, one of them being that she was a spy. She had infiltrated the Lin Kuei under Quan Chi’s commands, the sorcerer forcing her to choose between this or being ordered to assassinate Ashrah instead.

The sadistic smile that floated on the bastard’s smug face was enough to send chills down her spine. It was no secret that she and Ashrah were the closest and for Quan Chi to use that to blackmail her was a low blow.

Despite that, Sareena valued her life more than anything and had made the choice to infiltrate the Lin Kuei without second thoughts. If it mean not being killed by her own sister, then she had no qualms.

Yet, her conscience kicked right at her heart as the years went by. Initially, she had believed that her mission would be a flight through the Netherrealm but it turned out she had not considered the fact that she would get attached to the newfound family she had come to love in the Lin Kuei.

Despite it being her first day after getting initiated into the clan, Tomas had been the first to reach out to her. Then, Cyrax who was also known as Bontle Mohutsiwa had extended a hand of friendship towards her.

Coming from a dog-eat-dog world where the only person she had trusted on an intimate level was Ashrah, encountering these people posed a whiplash to her - a cultural shock.

She had found a new home which she knew would not last long. Not when they would eventually find out the truth of why she was in this clan. She dreaded just the thought of it, the thought of betraying them and the thought of proving Bi-Han’s suspicions right.

It was no secret that he looked down at her with disdain, the way he manhandled her like she was some obstacle to be eliminated.

Sareena had believed that it was understandable why he hated her. Tomas was also in the same boat as she was - they were both outsiders but in comparison, Tomas seemed to fare better as the worst he could get from Bi-Han was a cold silent treatment.

Maybe his disdain for her was not unfounded, she was a spy after all, although he did not know it yet. The truth always had its way of coming out.

The sound of light footsteps was enough to snap her out of reverie, her back almost against the wall as soon as Bi-Han walked in. The scowl on his face almost melted off as he shut the door behind him.

Wasting no time, Sareena’s feet were on the floor as she got down the bed when his raspy voice drew her attention.

“Just where do you think you are going?”

She paused, her eyes staring back at him in confusion.

“It is my turn to patrol, I believe so?” Her tone dropped with a hint of sarcasm as she asked, goosebumps forming on her arm as the temperature of the room dropped down a few degrees Celsius, her sign that that had not gone unnoticed.

“You’d be wasting your time, the coast is clear,” he dismissed with a wave of his hand.

“Still, I-.”

“Were you destined to be a pain in my ass?” He argued, his pointer pointing straight at her and Sareena could feel her blood boiling as she fought the urge to roll her eyes.

“Were you destined to always be…this?!” She shot back at him.

No doubt, he had taken an offence to that as his nostrils flared in fury, “And what is that supposed to mean, Sareena?”

Deciding that this was now or never, she squared her shoulders, also taking a dominant stance as she stared right back at him.

“Why do you hate me so much?”

“Why do you hate me so much?”

All the fight in him seemed to have left his body at that question, his brows furrowed at that question. He had expected any kind of question but that.

Why did he hate her? Did he even hate her anymore at this point? He scoffed, turning away from her. Maybe he did hate her.

He hated her for how weak she made him; he hated her for how she drove him to the point of insanity. He hated her for how she dominated his every sleeping and waking thoughts.

There’s a thin line between love and hate, someone had once said and Bi-Han had sneered at that quote, pondering on the nonsensical drivel of it all. Yet, he found himself an embodiment of that very quote.

This was a bad idea. Every part of this, from his father placing Sareena under his tutelage to the old man asking that he took her with him on this mission.

One, she had openly defied him in front of an enemy clan - the Tengu and fair enough, she was right to do so but that had bruised his ego in a way. His healing injuries throbbed as a reminder of that.

Two, he had made the error of thinking he could control himself around her and not succumb to his weakness. The fact that they were both in this shack with tensions running high and thickening the air just drove his point home.

“You know what I think of you?” Her voice broke through his thoughts and he slightly turned his head towards her. He wanted to shut her up, telling her he couldn’t care less what she thought of him but he stayed rooted anyway. “I think you are a coward.”

And there it was, his fists clenching in fury.

“You like me,” she continued and his heart rate accelerated like that of a man on adrenaline rush. “You think you hate me so you can push me away.”

She knew.

“Don’t resort to those delusional thoughts to make yourself feel better,” he sneered, turning to fully face her.

“I’ve seen weaker men fight for their love, grandmaster. Men who would burn the world for the ones they love. You, on the other hand, not even the Tengu-,” she pressed on and that was it from him as the last bit of control snapped like a delicate thread holding the two parts of a rope together.

She let out a yelp as his hand gripped her by the neck, tilting her head back as his lips met hers in an aggressive kiss.

For the first time, Bi-Han felt the tension flee his body, his hand leaving her neck now as the initial aggression was toned down for something else.

A groan escaped him the moment he felt Sareena’s hand roaming his chest and the other moving to let his dark hair down. She had taken over, her lips moving against his until he felt himself pushed down on the bed.

That was new and his clouded mind was the reason why he stared in confusion, his body feeling strangely warm despite the cryomancy that ran through his veins.

His eyes made contact with Sareena’s, her face looking more serene than his with a smirk on her lips. The only thing betraying her seemingly calm composure was the slight heaving of her chest as she straddled him.

“Lost for words, grandmaster?” She cooed, her use of his title not posing a source of aggravation to him for the first time.

He was indeed lost for words, panting like he had just ran a thousand miles. He definitely looked pathetic in her eyes yet that did not bother him a bit.

Her hand crept up to his neck and the irony was almost laughable at this point considering he had first kissed her with a neck grip in a kind of power move.

Her lips met his again, her hips grinding against his and he could already feel his length hardening just from that.

She pulled away from him, a short chuckle bubbling from her throat.

“I have barely touched you, Bi-Han,” she whispered, her hand now moving down to his crotch and his breath hitched as his body shuddered. She hesitated, staring at him, “Do you want this?”

He wanted to growl out in frustration, why was she asking him? He had kissed her first, the fact that she was touching him should be enough proof of his consent. Besides, he could not trust his words.

“Just- fuck, yes,” he groaned. It was his first time doing something like this, another side effect of him focusing on his being the next-in-line.

At least, his inexperience did not seem to drive Sareena away as her hand was back where he needed it to be.

“First time?”

There was a teasing glint in her dark eyes and if not for the heady lust which clouded his mind, he’d have glared at her. Maybe he did because she teased him even more with a gentle squeeze which made his breath hitch.

“I’ll be gentle, if that is assuring,” Sareena stared down at him, her hands leaving him momentarily as she reached to pull off her clothes.

At that moment, Bi-Han felt like a teenager all over again. The thrill of the mission always had the blood rushing through his vessels but this was an odd but not unwelcome feeling that had him going through what might as well be an adrenaline rush.

Maybe he could give in to his weakness for this one time.

a/n: ...so, how did that go? I hope to also rework out of control soon, hopefully, that will not take three weeks for me to do that (let us just hope) and if you want to be on my tagging list, please, let me know. and as usual, constructive criticism is welcome and thanks again for reading. 😄❤️

[sanjoongie]

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༊·˚to my @starlitmark's, how to thank you for the laughs, the memories, and the good feels? you are the idea factory that keeps going, and keeping me fed! I'm thankful countless times for you being my fellow collaborator but more importantly a friend who always feels safe and comfortable. here's to your day 💞

༊·˚Pairings: strength supe! Jung Yunho x named! Winged! Reader (f) Angel, golden boy! Choi Jongho x named! Winged! Reader (f) Angel, elastic body! Song Mingi x named! Winged! Reader (f) Angel, sex change at will! Choi San x named! Winged! Reader (f) Angel, portal creator! Park Seonghwa x intuitive aptitude! Roommate! Nari(oc)

༊·˚Genre: suggestive, thriller

༊·˚Au: college au, super hero au, Gen V au

༊·˚Trope: fwb, one night stand, s2l

༊·˚Rating: 18+, MDNI

༊·˚Warnings: blood, death, superhero accidents, smoking, drugs, alcohol, club scene, partying, suggestions of sexual relationships, kinks

༊·˚Word Count: 2,319

༊·˚Summary: When you suddenly go from a lower ranking student at Hala College to one of the top five supe's, suspicion lays upon you like a heavy blanket. But you can't reveal the truth to your ascension, even to your roommate, without the risk of ruining lives, including your own

༊·˚Author's Note: I know we said we'd keep an idea like this on the back burner but i really wanted to gift this to you 🥺

༊·˚divider by @cafekitsune

“So, you're coming to the Grinder, tonight, right?” Mingi takes a long drag of his vape pen and blows ridiculous shapes with his lips being able to adapt shapes no human could actually manage.

You watch as somehow an apple with a worm floats by. “I dunno, Mingi, Nari is in her avoiding Seonghwa phase so--”

Mingi rolls his eyes and exhales a vanilla scented cloud. “For once, can you not cater to your roommate and let me f--”

Your wings ruffle slightly and you jump up to clamp a hand over Mingi's lips. “Let's not announce that to the world, please.”

Mingi’s lips circumvent your hand comedically, extended towards his ear. “We're on the roof of a four story historical building, Angel.”

You sit back, eyes searching the ground below. “Yeah, well in a college full of supe's, there's probably someone with super hearing.”

Mingi glances at his smart watch. “Shit, I’ve got class. Text me if you’re going.” And with that, the elastic body college student extended his leg and safely deposited his body to the green grass of the quad. 

You had some studying to do. If you were going to become a superhero in another country, there were a few languages you had to wrangle. Perhaps taking on more than one language class hadn't been the best idea but it was too late in the semester to drop one now. You spread your wings and take off towards your dorm building.

You were momentarily distracted flying over the track and field expanse from cheering. You swoop downwards to find Yunho was lifting an extended cab truck with one hand. You had a brief stint with Yunho during your freshman year, unlocking a strength kink, but also realizing you couldn't handle a supe with jealousy issues. Not towards yourself, no. In the school rankings, Yunho was always second to Jongho.

Speak of the devil, the school’s golden boy and top student, was drawing an even bigger crowd. He was using his laser sight to destroy targets and winked gratuitously at a gaggle of junior girls. You squeak when you have to avoid some of his freeze breath as he blew a kiss as well. Damn Jongho. 

You finally land in front of your dorm building when a broad-shoulder student cuts off your pathway inside. “Angel, you have a moment for me?”

You bit down on your lip nervously. San was always looking for an inside scoop as the editor of the Hala Gazette. You had nothing for him. “San, I’ve got to study!” You protest.

San’s broad shoulders morph, his hair lengthens to a bob, and now she leans forward with her ample cleavage. Didn’t matter what sex San was, his waist was still itty bitty, however. San also knew to play to your bi-weakness, which leaned towards the feminine body a lot. “Please?” she pouts.

Shit shit shit. Luckily, you’re saved by the roommate. “San, fuck off or I’ll report you to the Dean again! You know you can’t harass the students!”

San morphs back into his male body and sticks his tongue childishly at Nari. “I’ll find out eventually!”

Your head moves back and forth between the exchange of your roommate and your one night fling when you had drunk waaaaaay too many margaritas during post-finals. What the hell was going on?

“Angel, get up here before someone else harrasses you!” Nari shouts and then closes the window of your shared dorm space. 

You ironically take the stairs, somehow wanting to delay the passing of news. You had a gut feeling this wasn’t good. You pull your wings tight to your body so you can enter the door. “I’m not going to get any time to study, am I?” You ask your roommate.

Your roommate, with her ability of intuitive aptitude, aka she learns everything incredibly fast immediately, studies you intensely. “Have you looked at the rankings recently?”

You wince. “Did I drop again? They’re gonna kick me out, aren’t they?”

Nari looks delighted suddenly and your stomach dips. Without another word, she whips out her phone, taps the screen and then turns it towards you. Your eyes quickly scan the list: Jongho as number one, Yunho as number two, Mingi as number three, Nari as number four and then…

“I’m number five?” You gasp.

Nari tucks her phone into her back pocket. “Who did you blow recently?”

“No one,” You deny a little too quickly. 

Nari eyes you for a moment and then shrugs. “ ‘kay well, I can only protect you for so long. If you go to the Grinder and San gets her nails in you, you’re a goner.”

You grasp Nari’s small shoulders in your hands. “Please go with me tonight. I need you, bestie.”

“I'll go with you if you tell me what the hell is going on, Angel. Otherwise, I'm not risking Seonghwa portaling me into his bedroom tonight.”

His blunt nails dig into your forearm. "Please, you can't tell anyone. Especially Nari! She can't lie for shit.”

You avoid your roommate’s eyes completely. “It's nothing. I must have nailed my finals. You know how they like to randomly promote studies over physical or social achievements.”

Nari sighs loudly. “Alright, fine, I'll go with you tonight. You know I've always got your back, Angel.”

“I know,” You whisper, guilt squeezing your heart.

The Grinder, the aptly named college On-campus bar, was throwing a bikinis and beanies party. It was hard to dress around your wings but bikinis were easy for you. 

“Please tell me how bikinis and beanies are even fair to theme together. I’ve gotta be practically naked and guys get away with throwing a hat on?” Nari grumbles beside you as you both teeter on heels down the stairs to the basement club’s entrance. 

You gently nudge your roommate in the ribs. “The guys could be wearing bikinis too, you know.”

Nari pauses at the bottom of the stairs, shock written all over her face. “Oh.” You have to giggle at her. 

The party is in full force by the time you two squeeze through the crowd and order drinks. Nari wants to dance first but you have a feeling if you don’t spot San first, he’d get to you. 

“I’m going to the balcony!” You shout. 

Nari nods, getting into her groove and sipping her neon-green beverage. You keep an eye on the crowd, looking for the particular set of broad shoulders--or bob, but your eyes are drawn to the one student that always sticks out in a crowd.

Jongho raises a golden mug of beer, roars some kinda cheer and then chugs the entire thing like a viking reborn. He spots you across the room and his eyes widen. He smiles and claps others around him on the back and makes his way towards you. He doesn’t speak with you, however. With a sharp jerk of his head, he motions to the emergency exit. The alarm had long ago been disabled, the dark stairs to the rooftop being a perfect place to have clandestine affairs.

You had a feeling, however, Jongho wasn’t looking for a hook-up.

Jongho’s back was to you by the time you had climbed the stairs. His hands were shoved into his pockets and he was staring up at the sky. “Avoid Nari’s questions? Jongho asks, seemingly nonchalant.

“Yeah,” You mumbled, rubbing the back of your neck, “But Jongho…”

“Angel, you have to keep your promise. I know it’ll be hard but you know what’ll happen if the news hits. I’ll lose everything,” Jongho replies hoarsely.

Your throat tightens, struggling with your memories. It was all covered under a haze of drinking and drugs. Your friends with benefits relationship with Mingi pulled you into the scene of the top three. Jongho, Yunho and Mingi were quite popular, spots given to the top students of course. You were privy to their private parties and adventures, but this time it wasn’t all fun and games. 

Jongho’s look of horror as you were covered in shards of red-ice. Yunho’s suppressed anger. Mingi’s pancake state as his usually elastic body gave way to the lethargic drugs he had consumed. It had been a night…

“I’ll keep my mouth shut, Jongho, don’t worry about it.”

Jongho’s golden-boy smile is plastered across his face again, gums flashing and eyes disappearing. “Good. That’s all I need to hear.”

“Well well well, what do we have here? What’s number one and number five doing up here?”

You whirl around to see San in a bikini top with a fishnet cover-up and beanie. Most likely to make it easy for him to shift if he felt like it. He had on his signature smirk, but his eyes were burning with anger. It was well known that despite his hard work, San never broke the top five, and he resented anyone who did so with seemingly ease. It was obvious he now added you to that list. 

“Fuck off, San,” Jongho growls. 

San laughs, high pitched as if he’s simply delighted to be told off. “Language, Golden Boy. What’s wrong? Got something to hide?”

“San, now’s not a good time,” You hiss, gripping his upper arm through his fish-net top. 

San morphs, ignoring you. “Is this form more appealing to the two of you? If I fuck you both, could I knock Nari off her forth place?” she says with a saccharine-sarcastic tone. 

Jongho’s fists curl at his side and his breath comes out in cold-wisps. “I’ll only tell you once more,” he snarls, “Fuck. Off.”

“San, please!” You plead with her. “Don’t push this. Not tonight.”

San stage-sighs, her high voice making your legs clench. “Fine. But I’m not the only one that knows you two are up here.” San yanks her arm out of your grip and stomps down the stairs. 

You and Jongho both exchange looks. If Yunho saw you two exit together…

“Shit. Fuck. Christ,” Jongho rushes to the door. You almost follow him before he throws up a hand. “Fly down. I’ll send Mingi out. Yunho will cool down if he thinks you two are hooking up again. He can’t be angry at his bestie.”

You jump off the rooftop a second time today, wings spread to slow your descent. It doesn’t take long before Mingi’s wound his body around yours, and just in time too, as Yunho’s head can be seen peeking over the lip of the rooftop. Mingi’s high already, so it’s not hard for him to wander his hands--and lips--over your body, encouraged by his heightened senses. When Yunho’s head disappears, you gently pry Mingi from your body.

Mingi whines in protest. “C’mon Angel.”

“Not tonight, Mingi, please,” You ask, tiredness coating your tongue. “It’s been a day.”

“You should celebrate,” Mingi sighs, knowing a no when he hears it. He pulls back but his eyes are still begging. 

“I don’t need any Happy Dust, sir,” You gently scold him. “Let's go back in. I probably need to rescue Nari by now.”

“Fucking Nari,” Mingi growls good naturedly and you giggle. 

Unsurprisingly, Nari is on Seonghwa’s lap on the unused stage located at the front of the club. He uses his portal powers to call in his electric guitar and his hands are showing her some cords, his finger pushing on hers, and it’s suggestive as fuck. Your eyes meet across the room, like you two have some best friend psychic connection and Nari mouths “S.O.S” to you. 

You were about to sweep in and call it a night, when Yunho finally intercepts you. “Angel!”

“Yunho, if I don’t save Nari, I’ll never hear the end of it,” You try to deflect.

“Like you saved me?” Yunho says bluntly.

Your lips twitch in an attempt to not grimace. “Is now really the right time for this?”

“My father never should have--” Yunho blows some air out of his mouth, ruffling his fringe. “Listen, Angel, I appreciate you but everyone has so many questions. Maybe--”

You shake your head. “It’s done, Yunho. It’s been covered up. I don’t like it anymore than you do--”

Yunho laughs and it’s slightly bitter. “Don’t like being the new number five without having done truly anything? You’re so fucking like him, it hurts.”

Your back goes ramrod straight. “You know what? Fuck you, Yunho.” All this secrecy and for what? For Yunho to make you feel like shit? This wasn’t it.

Yunho rubs a hand over his face. “Shit. Sorry, Angel, I just--”

“Forget it, Yunho. Just get lost.” You shoulder past him, unapologetically letting him get a faceful of your wings. 

You climb onto the stage and throw your wings out to full span. “I know I’m supposed to be your guardian angel tonight, but do you think we could get out of here?” You plead to Nari.

Nari takes two seconds to absorb all the emotions written across your face and she nods resolutely. “Hwa, another night.”

Seonghwa looks disappointed but he’s not without some empathy. So he lets go of Nari, not without a soft pat to her ass, but he opens a portal. “Straight to your dorm room,” he sends you an award winning smile.

You both step through and Nari immediately grabs your blanket and carefully, but thoughtfully wraps it around your body. “For what it’s worth, Angel,” she says through a yawn, “Jongho isn't that bad of a choi--”

The both of you flinch as a huge boom echoes through the campus. The two of you run to your window and red flames reflect from the distance on your faces. 

“Is that the…” It couldn't be coming from the club you two had just left.

“Fuck,” You curse for the umpteenth time this evening. 

A huge chunk gets thrown through the air and laser’s destroy it.

“Double fuck,” Nari echoes you. 

Bonus content: Nari x Seonghwa

All's fair in love and war, except when you’re a supe.

[gayashelljatp]

Prince Charming x James Hook | Trophy Boy Chapter 1.

Tags :Sorta Enemies to Lovers Fake/Pretend Relationship Not Canon Compliant, Inspired by Cinderella (1997), I Wrote This Instead of Sleeping, Prince Charming is a Bi-King, Prince Charming Is Filipino, Because the actor is and I also am one so yeah, Prince Charming gets a lot of bitches but no love, Merlin Academy (Disney), James Hook is gay, Other Additional Tags to Be Added, I don't know how to tag in this fandom, No Beta Like Not Going To Castlecoming

Summary:

Charming had himself caught up in a pretty little lie, telling his parents he had a date for his birthday ball. Desperate to stop their meddling in his love life, he came up with a plan: show up with someone who’d make the court gasp—a notorious pirate at school, James Hook. It was supposed to be a quick fix: fake a romance, cause a stir, and be free from the royal matchmakers forever. But the more time Charming spent with Hook—as a person, the sharp banter—the more complicated things got. This wasn’t just about pretending anymore. He was starting to get hooked. Or The sorta enemies to fake dating to lovers between Hook and Charming no one asked for.

Content Rating: Teen and Up.

Wordcount: 5,931

Notes (Same On AO3):

Hi, I'm Ace. But I'm here posting and writing more gay shit for the Descendants fandom.

I'm one for a crack ship and these two don't even interact in the movie so you may be wondering what made me do this. Three things actually:

I'm in the Descendants editing community and I saw this edit by @jewishvarian. Hook's actor Josh pretty much showing his support to this ship has made we want to do this.

The second inspiration is Once Upon A Time ship Captain Charming my sister had a Once Upon A Time phase so I know quite a bit about them. The third thing the catalyst for this is the fanfic Stage Call by Montythecrow. (The first chapter is really good can't wait for more. Also R.I.P. DBD I never got to make a DBD fic before it got cancelled *sighs in JATP*)

Let's do some housekeeping and explain the lore because this fic grabs from fifty million things.

- The Brandy Cinderella movie or Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (1997) as it's also known are major inspirations. I pulled the characterization of Charming from this film and the new Descendants film and I pulled the whole of Charming's parents and his butler Lionel from this movie. (Pls watch this movie. It's really fun, campy and entertaining.)

- I also took from various Prince Charming media from Cinderella movies from Disney to non-Disney. Charming (2018)'s Trophy Boy by Avril Lavigne, Ashely Tisdale and G.E.M. is where the title of this fic comes from. It's a bad movie but this song is legendary and pop perfection. A K-pop star, a Disney star, and a rock star all in one song is crazy.

- This fic has multiple POV's for Charming focused parts 👑 emojis are used on the other hook if it's James it's this emoji 🪝.

- Finally, this isn't a GayashellJATP fic without a playlist of songs I have on that help immerse you in the universe. Spotify playlist here!!!

Now that we are done with some housekeeping. Enjoy the fic & Remember to give feedback!!! It is always appreciated.

Notes (Tumblr):

I'm trying to do better on posting on here and being on time. With being a cross platform author. I still don't know how Tumblr works pls help me. Once again I suggest you read on AO3 my formatting is way better on that.

Chapter 1: Before The Ball

👑

Charming was so screwed.

He'd been excused from class by royal summons, which only meant one of two things: either bad news or... well, worse news. Lionel, the family’s loyal servant and his assigned guardian at the academy, was jittery, practically fidgeting as he escorted the skateboarding teen to the castle. 

Lionel’s nervousness only heightened Charming's suspicion—did he tattle on him sneaking out of the academy for a late-night date? Again? Or worse—had he forgotten some royal obligation that would now come back to bite him?

Despite the comfortable life he'd been born into, Charming had a talent for getting into situations that made it... uncomfortable. Usually of his own making.

The moment they arrived at the vast, gilded throne room, the knot in his stomach twisted tighter. His mother stood. Not good. Queen Constantina only stood when something serious—truly serious—was about to be discussed. Lionel cleared his throat and began the ceremonial introduction. 

“Your Royal Highness, Prince Charming—”

The Queen interrupted with a sharp glance. “Prince Christopher Rupert Windermere Vladimir—”

“Mom,” Charming sighed, cutting Lionel off. “He doesn’t have to say it every time.” The poor man practically bowed in relief when Charming gestured for him to be seated. The full name was ridiculously wordy, one of the many reasons why "Prince Charming" stuck much more easily.

“Son, you didn’t need to dismiss him,” King Maximilian spoke up from beside the queen, kissing his wife’s hand. Charming had to resist the urge to roll his eyes. 

His parents were constantly doing that—displaying affection as if they were still teenagers in love. Any love hater would have gagged, but Charming simply tried to suppress a smirk. Even he couldn't deny they were a good match, for better or worse.

“Mom. Dad. What is it this time?” Charming asked, his voice strained but trying not to sound too impatient.

“Watch your tone, Junior,” his father said, though not harshly.

Charming forced a deep breath. “Fine. What’s the big news?” he said, layering on enthusiasm that was just short of sarcasm.

The Queen exchanged a meaningful glance with her husband before turning to her son, her posture regal and dramatic all at once. "Your eighteenth birthday in two days."

“I thought—” his father began, but a sharp elbow from his wife stopped him. “We thought it would be appropriate to throw a birthday ball.”

Charming's heart sank. "A ball?" His voice came out strained. "Father, is that really necessary?"

Queen Constantina's eyes glistened with an air of theatrics as she responded, “You haven’t shown any of your potential picks for marriage. You are two years overdue for at least a partner!” Her voice hitched as though it were a tragedy in itself.

Charming had tried, of course. He'd gone on more first dates than he cared to count, but none had led to anything serious. His royal reputation for being “charming” only went so far, especially when he wasn’t charmed by anyone.

“I’m working on it,” he muttered, running a hand through his hair. “But Mom, I don’t think a ball for my birthday is necessary.”

“Necessary?” His mother’s voice shot up an octave, her hand flying dramatically to her chest as if she were about to swoon. “Is it necessary that I should die knowing my only son will be a lonely king?!”

Charming’s eyes widened. “Mom, please. You’re not going to—"

“I might!” she countered, her voice trembling as if the mere thought of his supposed future loneliness was too much to bear. “The idea of you being all alone without a wife or family—oh! How tragic it would be!”

Charming rubbed the back of his neck, suppressing a groan. He loved his mom, truly, but sometimes her dramatics were... a lot. “Okay, fine. I get it. But… I have someone. Already. A partner.”

The words were out of his mouth before he had a chance to think them through. His heart nearly stopped as both his parents' faces lit up.

“You do?!” his father exclaimed, clapping his hands together in glee.

The Queen looked like she was about to burst into tears of joy. “Oh, my darling boy! You’ve found someone! You’ve—”

Charming quickly nodded, feeling his stomach churn with regret. “Yep. Found someone. Really great.”

His father beamed. “That’s fantastic news, son! We were beginning to wonder if you'd ever—"

“But the ball,” Queen Constantina interjected with a flourish of her hand. “The ball must still happen! After all, it’s been paid for, and all the preparations have already been made.”

Charming’s shoulders slumped. “Of course it has…”

His mother took his hands, her eyes sparkling. “Oh, darling, I can’t wait to meet this special someone of yours. Bring her to the ball!”

"Yeah. Absolutely," Charming forced a grin, though inside, his mind raced. He was so, so screwed. Not only was the ball happening no matter what, but now he had to show up with a date—someone bad enough to stop his parents from meddling in his love life ever again.

Where on Earth was he going to find that?

👑

Charming zoomed through the academy gates on his skateboard, the wind whipping through his hair as his thoughts churned. Why had he lied? It gnawed at him, the weight of a falsehood pressing on his conscience. Lies weren’t really his thing. Now, he’d have to turn that lie into reality, or it would eat him alive.

As he skated through the courtyard, his gaze caught Fay, a fairy in training and his hexalogy class partner, sitting cross-legged on the grass, her nose buried in a spellbook. She was mumbling under her breath, waving her wand with exaggerated movements as sparks of magic fizzled in the air. 

“Hey, Fay,” he called, slowing down as he rolled over.

Fay glanced up, her wide eyes narrowing with playful frustration. “Charming, where were you?” she asked, tapping her wand against her open book. “Do you have any idea how hard it is to hex yourself and then unhex yourself without your partner? I nearly turned myself into a frog!”

“Royal duties,” Charming shrugged, offering an apologetic smile.

Fay’s expression softened immediately. She knew all too well the burden his title carried. “What did the queen say this time?” she asked, her tone light but sympathetic.

Charming rubbed the back of his neck. “We’re throwing another ball.”

Fay’s face lit up. “A ball? Isn’t that fantastic—” she paused, noticing the scowl creeping over Charming's face, “—ally… impossible to enjoy?” She attempted to course-correct, her enthusiasm dimming as she realized how much the idea clearly weighed on him. Fay wasn’t the best at being negative, but she tried.

“But I’ll make it up to you. I’ll be there for the next class.”

“You better be,” Fay huffed, but her tone was forgiving. 

“The whole kingdom’s invited. Maybe I’ll catch you at the ball?”

“Nah, I doubt it. I’ll be here practicing my spells,” she said with a shy smile, already inching back toward her book. Fay wasn’t one for social events—she always seemed to vanish from them, though Charming never asked why. 

“Well, I’ll see you later,” Charming said, giving her a quick wave.

“Later, skater!” Fay called, attempting to sound cool, which earned a chuckle from Charming. She couldn’t help but laugh at herself as he rolled away.

But as Charming skated off, Fay accidentally mispronounced her next spell. Instead of reciting "double the bubbles," she muttered "double the wobbles" under her breath. Without realizing it, she had casted a spell on Charming’s skateboard, causing it to take on a life of its own. 

Charming, an experienced skater, didn’t notice anything at first. But as he glided past the group of notorious students hanging out by the courtyard's edge, the board beneath his feet began to wobble violently, as though possessed. 

His body lurched forward, trying to steady himself, but the board had other ideas. It veered, zigzagging uncontrollably, and before Charming could react, it shot straight toward a cluster of students.

In a blur of motion, Charming collided with none other than Captain James Hook—his pirate classmate, and perhaps the academy’s most infamous heartthrob after Charming himself. With a loud thud, both boys went crashing to the ground, Hook's shiny golden hook clattering against the stone courtyard as they tumbled in a tangle of limbs.

Charming groaned, disentangling himself. “I’m so sorry!” he blurted, scrambling to his feet. His skateboard had spun off and smacked into a nearby tree, finally bringing the spell to a halt.

Hook stood up slowly, glaring down at Charming with narrowed eyes. His gaze was sharp and menacing, but there was a flicker of something else—jealousy? Amusement? It was hard to tell. 

“You really are a royal asshole, aren’t you?” Hook growled, dusting off his crimson blazer. His voice dripped with venom, but there was something undeniably captivating about the way he spoke. “Gunning for me, were you?”

“No! No, I swear. I didn’t mean to—I lost control of the board.”

Hook didn’t seem convinced. He stepped closer, his imposing presence casting a shadow over Charming. “You were heading straight toward me, mate,” Hook said, his tone dangerously low. His golden hook gleamed as he pointed it directly at Charming’s perfect face. “That doesn’t seem like much of an accident.”

Charming’s heart pounded as his eyes flicked from Hook’s face to the hook hovering too close for comfort. He held up his hands in surrender, his voice calm and soothing. “Whoa, easy,” he said, gently grabbing Hook’s wrist and pushing the hook away from his face. For a brief second, his fingers brushed against Hook’s skin.

For just a moment, Charming couldn’t help but notice Hook. The sharp features, the dark, windswept hair, the way his crimson blazer framed his broad shoulders. And those eyes—intense, narrowed in suspicion, but undeniably alluring. 

Charming blinked, snapping out of it. He was in trouble, not admiring the guy who was about to gut him like a fish.

Hook, however, seemed to notice Charming’s lingering gaze. His eyes flashed with something almost wild, and a wicked smirk curled on his lips. “What’s the matter, Prince? Distracted?”

“Uh, no. Not at all. Just… don’t want to get impaled, that’s all.”

Hook raised an eyebrow, amused but not backing down. “Right.” He clicked his tongue, his hook gleaming in the sunlight as he let it fall to his side. “You’re lucky I’m in a good mood today. Or else…” He let the threat hang in the air, his eyes still burning into Charming’s.

“Right, yeah. Lucky,” Charming muttered, his pulse still racing. He wasn’t sure if it was from the near-death experience or the fact that Hook was standing way too close. He hadn’t expected Hook to be so—well, so much. Why was he noticing that now?

Hook’s smirk lingered as he stepped back, finally giving Charming some space. “Try not to skate into any more of your classmates, mate. Especially not me or my crew got it?.” He turned, flipping his collar with an air of superiority, though there was a glint in his eye as he strode away. 

Charming watched him leave, shaking his head. Hook was dangerous—and not just because of the hook. There was something else there. Something he really needed to avoid.

But as he glanced back at his skateboard lying against the tree, the thought struck him: maybe, just maybe, Hook was exactly the kind of problem he needed. 

If he could bring Hook to the ball, that would surely get his parents off his back. Right? 

How would he ever get Hook to agree to that? He was really, really screwed.

🪝

Hook was seething. What a clueless little prince, he thought, his jaw clenched as he stormed through the academy's halls. Charming had to be the most oblivious royal he'd ever met. For someone so poised and charming, the prince had no idea how to navigate the real world. 

Not that Hook expected much more from royals—they were all so privileged, so sheltered, so painfully clueless. That’s what made them easy marks. Their money, their fine clothes, their trinkets—it was all just there for the taking, practically begging to be lifted.

But this? This was different. Hook’s pride was bruised more than anything. Charming had made him collide with the earth, of all things, and Hook wasn’t going to forgive the little prince for sullying his pristine, mint-condition vintage blazer. He cast a quick glance at the fabric—no visible damage, but that didn’t matter. The fact that it had touched the ground at all was an unforgivable offense. 

And worse, Hook knew his crew would never let him live this down if they found out. His reputation couldn’t take a hit like that, not when he had spent so much time cultivating it. He had to get his revenge. Teach the prince a lesson.

So, during storybook history class, Hook slipped out unnoticed. He snuck across the academy grounds to the royal dormitory— Full of one bed and customized rooms, unlike less privileged students. They weren’t allowed to deface their rooms and they had a roommate system. But Hook wasn’t complaining his roommate was pretty great.

But he wasn’t here to brood. No, he was here to act.

Charming’s dorm was up ahead, and Hook was relieved to see no sign of that bothersome butler Lionel. Of course, the little prince needs a servant to wait on him hand and foot, Hook thought, rolling his eyes. He always found it odd—off-putting, even—that Charming couldn’t go anywhere without a personal attendant. How soft and pampered could you get?

Hook approached Charming’s door, a sly grin spreading across his face. With a quick glance down the hallway, he slipped his golden hook into the lock, working it with practiced ease. Today, he was wearing his favorite hook—the golden one that added a touch of class to his ensemble. He’d have to be careful not to scratch it. The lock gave way with a soft click, and Hook pushed the door open, slipping inside.

The room smelled of expensive cologne, and everything was arranged perfectly. Typical royal. Hook sneered. He moved to the wardrobe, his eyes scanning the rows of pristine clothes. 

Charming had quite the collection—mostly royal-styled barongs and beige outfits, which made Hook wrinkle his nose. Beige? Ugh, he thought with disdain. Not his color at all. Where was the flair, the vibrancy? Not a single dark or deep color in sight. Charming had such a boring taste in clothes for someone so well-dressed.

Still, a theft was a theft. Hook rifled through the clothes, trying to find something worth taking. Surely the prince won’t miss a few pieces, he thought, tossing aside a particularly dull-looking beige tunic.

What Hook didn’t realize was how much time he’d spent browsing

But time had gotten away from him, and Hook hadn’t realized how long he’d been sifting through the prince’s belongings until he heard the unmistakable sound of the door opening behind him.

“Looking for something?” came a voice that was far too calm for Hook’s liking.

Hook froze, hand halfway through a drawer of silk cravats. Slowly, he turned around, his heart sinking as he locked eyes with Prince Charming standing in the doorway with a smirk, arms crossed over his chest. He hadn’t expected to get caught—he never got caught.

Hook blinked, trying to regain his composure. “Ah skater boy,” he began, straightening up and smoothing his jacket. “This… is not what it looks like.”

Charming raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes. “Really? Because it looks like you’re in my room rifling through my wardrobe.”

Hook swallowed, his mind racing for an excuse. He’d been in tight spots before, but this? This was a mess. “I was, uh… inspecting your clothing choices. Offering a little… constructive criticism, you might say,” Hook replied, flashing a crooked grin, but it didn’t reach his eyes. He wasn’t used to feeling this off-kilter. “No offense, mate, but 50 shades of tan and beige? Really?”

Charming’s expression remained neutral, though there was a glint of something unreadable in his eyes. “And you thought breaking into my room was the best way to offer fashion advice?”

Before Hook could answer, Lionel appeared in the doorway, eyes wide as they flickered between the pirate and the prince. “Am I interrupting, sir? I didn’t expect a guest,” Lionel said, his voice a touch too polite, suspicion creeping in.

Charming, without losing his cool, glanced slightly over his shoulder at Lionel but didn’t shift his focus from Hook. “It’s fine, Lionel. Could you give us a moment?” His tone was dismissive but not unkind, the sort of royal command that left no room for argument.

"Of course, Your Highness," Lionel replied, a touch too formal as he bowed and quickly excused himself, but not without one last curious glance, probably wondering if he had just witnessed the beginnings of some lovers' quarrel. The door closed softly behind him.

The moment Lionel left, Hook let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. He eyed Charming warily, wondering how much trouble he was in. He hated the feeling of being cornered, especially by a royal.

“So…” Hook began, his voice dripping with false confidence. “No need to make this a big deal, yeah? You’re not going to go crying to Merlin, are you?”

Charming’s lips curled into a small smile. “I’m not planning on it, no.”

Sweet relief washed over Hook, but it was short-lived as Charming took a step closer, his tone turning just a shade more serious. “But I can’t just let this slide either, can I?”

Hook swallowed, his bravado faltering for a moment. “I only did this after our little incident,” he blurted out, trying to regain control of the conversation. He gestured vaguely between them, referencing their earlier collision.

Charming tilted his head slightly, as if considering Hook’s words. “And you thought breaking into my room and raiding my wardrobe was the right way to even the score?”

Hook’s mind scrambled for a sweet escape. “Look you don’t need to turn me in,” he said, practically begging now.

Charming considered this for a moment, his gaze flicking over Hook’s disheveled form and the mess of clothes scattered around his room. Then, almost as if a thought occurred to him, his smile returned—this time, sharper. “Actually, I think I might have an idea. Meet me by the castleteria at dinner time.”

“A dinner? You’re not going to tell anyone about this?”

“No, not yet,” Charming replied, his voice smooth but tinged with mischief. “But if you don’t show up, then maybe we’ll reconsider the whole punishment thing.”

Hook’s stomach twisted. He hated feeling like he was at someone’s mercy, especially Charming’s. But something in the prince’s eyes told him this wasn’t just about revenge—it was about leverage. Hook didn’t know what Charming had in mind, but whatever it was, it couldn’t be good.

Still, he nodded, trying to regain his bravado. “Alright, Prince. Dinner date it is.”

Charming smirked, stepping aside to let Hook pass.

Hook left the room, heart still pounding, cursing himself under his breath. He’d been caught, and now, somehow, he was in too deep.

🪝

“Hook, what bullshit did you get into?” Uliana’s voice cut through the room like a whip, her tone sharp with irritation as she lounged on Morgie’s bed, her tentacles subtly shifting.

The five of them were crammed into Hook and Morgie’s shared dorm room, a small space that felt even smaller with Uliana’s dramatic presence filling the air. Hook, on the other hand, was sprawled lazily across his bed, legs crossed like he had not a care in the world, but deep down, his stomach churned with unease. 

Hook glanced at Uliana, who was tapping her nails against her belt buckle.. “Relax, Uliana. It’s nothing I can’t handle.”

“Is it a date?” Morgie piped up, his eyes wide with genuine curiosity as he fiddled with a piece of parchment,

Hook scoffed. “Really, wizard-oo? That’s your question?” The brunnete pirate shot back, but he didn’t quite meet Morgie’s gaze, a flicker of discomfort crossing his face. “It’s not a date, you idiot.”

“You didn’t deny it, Hook, so that means you’re going on a date with that royal eyesore,” Maleficent added with a sly smirk, reclining against the wall. She twirled a strand of dark hair between her fingers.

Hook sat up, trying to regain his composure, his golden hook glinting as he gestured wildly. “He’s got a little rebel streak in him, sure, but a date? With me?” Hook forced a laugh, but it came out a little too harsh. “He’s too soft for that.”

Hades, who had been lounging in the corner, arms folded and his fiery blue hair flickering lazily, chimed in with a smirk of his own. “I dunno, mate. You see those blue streaks he’s rocking these days? Kid’s got a little fire in him. You pick them well, James.”

What did the prince have in mind for him? Why had Charming asked him to meet at dinner? He was good at handling himself, but this was different. Royals had a way of twisting things to their advantage, and he wasn’t sure he’d come out on top this time.

Uliana’s tentacles flexed, her eyes narrowing. “This better not blow back on us, Hook. You get tangled up with that prince, and we’re all screwed. I’ve got enough on my plate without cleaning up your messes.”

Morgie, ever the optimist, gave Hook a hopeful smile. “Maybe it won’t be so bad? You two could, you know... find common ground?” He shrugged, completely oblivious to the heavy glares that Uliana shot his way.

Hook grimaced, rubbing the back of his neck. “Trust me, I don’t belive in common ground I’m a pirate after all. The seas are what matter,” he muttered, but even as he said it, he couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that Charming wasn’t as simple as he’d like to believe. Whatever the prince had planned, Hook had no choice but to play along—for now.

👑

Lionel watched as Charming’s fencing movements faltered, his usual grace replaced by distracted, half-hearted parries. The clanging of their swords echoed through the gymnasium, but the prince’s mind was clearly somewhere else.

“Sir—I mean, Christopher, what’s the worry face for?” Lionel asked, lowering his sword slightly, his tone a mix of concern with playful scolding. “Your mother would say frowning is terrible for the face.”

Charming winced and laughed, “Ouch. Thanks for that reminder, Lionel.”

Lionel tilted his head, eyeing the prince with the same scrutiny one might give a misbehaving child. “Having love problems, are we?”

Charming hesitated mid-lunge. “Sorta… kinda... undetermined.” He shrugged, trying to mask the uncertainty in his voice with nonchalance.

“I’ll try to make sense of that, sir,” 

Charming straightened up, tossing his sword onto the nearby rack. “I do have a problem,” 

“And what may that be, Your Highness?”

“I lied to my parents,” Charming confessed, running a hand through his streaked hair. “I told them I had someone to bring them for the ball, but... I have no one.”

Lionel gasped theatrically, hand flying to his chest in mock horror. “Oh dear! The end of the world!” 

Charming grinned, though the smile didn’t reach his eyes. “Don’t panic. I’ve got it under control. I think…”

“Is that why there was a handsome pirate rummaging through your wardrobe this morning?” he asked with a pointed look. “Is he part of your grand plan?”

Charming blinked, caught off guard. “He’s not that handsome,” he blurted out, the words leaving his mouth before he could stop them. Lionel’s amused smirk only deepened. Charming’s cheeks flushed. “I mean—he’s alright,” he backpedaled quickly, though Lionel’s knowing look said it all.

Lionel chuckled softly, tapping the flat of his sword against the ground. “What would your parents think of him, then? A pirate at the royal ball?”

“They did say every suitor in the kingdom that doesn’t exclude male or pirates. But they’d be terrified,” 

“And here I thought you were planning to bring a princess,” Lionel mused, shaking his head with fond exasperation.

“Well, ‘pirate’ does start with a P,” Charming quipped, unable to suppress his grin. “Might be close enough. Don’t ask for permission ask for forgiveness.”

“The ball’s happening no matter what, Christopher. Your parents are set on it,” Lionel reminded him, though there was no judgment in his voice. He was used to the prince’s antics by now.

Charming nodded, tossing his fencing jacket aside. “Yeah, well, might as well make it a little more exciting.” 

“If I’m going down, I’m going down singing.” The prince sang.

Lionel chuckled, stepping forward to ruffle the prince’s hair. “You’re always causing trouble. But… you're going to be fine, you always are.”

Charming laughed, a bit of the tension easing from his shoulders. “Thanks, Lionel.”

"Just... try not to start a royal scandal this time," 

"Can't make any promises," Charming shot back with a grin.

👑

The night had settled over Merlin Academy, and the castleteria was buzzing. On the lower level, students from various backgrounds sat together, some attempting to eat in peace while others whispered and laughed in tight-knit groups.

The second level, however, was a different story entirely—a separate, glass-enclosed space designed for royal students, a consequence of the infamous "Ariel incident" from freshman year. Uliana, the sea witch, had stirred up a food fight with the sophomore Little Mermaid herself,  (A girl her older sister bullied aswell)

which ended with food flying and a lot of egos bruised. Now, extra security stood guard, and Charming hated it.

It drained his social battery to be so isolated. He used to enjoy mingling, making polite conversation with his peers, but now he found himself perched in this sterile room, looking down at the rest of the academy through the glass window like he was in some kind of fishbowl. 

It didn’t help that Lionel, who usually provided some form of company, was off handling royal duties whenever it was mealtime. So Charming sat alone, poking at his food, waiting.

Well, not exactly alone. He was expecting someone. Or rather, a pirate . The word "victim" had crossed his mind, but that sounded too cruel, and blackmailee was just unpleasant. So, pirate it was.

Charming’s thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a scuffle outside the door. Voices—loud, irritated voices—drifted in, and he didn’t need to guess who it was.

“Let go of me! Easy on the coat!” came the familiar accent, sharp and indignant.

The guards were clearly manhandling Hook. Charming sighed, standing up from his seat and making his way to the door. He opened it just in time to see one of the guards tugging on Hook’s crimson coat, and Hook, true to form, looking royally pissed off.

“Stop it!” Charming barked, a little more forcefully than usual. “Let him go. He's with me.”

The two guards immediately released Hook, straightening up as they realized their mistake. One of them, the taller one with a stern face, glanced at Charming apologetically. “Apologies, Your Highness. We didn’t know he was—”

“Yeah, clearly,” Hook cut in, brushing off his coat like he’d just been dragged through the mud. “A real fine welcome, I must say.”

The other guard, younger and more nervous, muttered, “We thought he might’ve been here to, uh… cause trouble, Your Highness.”

Charming sighed, rubbing his temples. “He’s not here to cause trouble. I invited him.” He shot a look at Hook. “Sorry about the mix-up.”

Hook crossed his arms, glaring at the guards. “Way to go, Prince. You invite me, then forget to tell your people I’m coming. Real nice lad, aren’t you?”

Charming gave him a sheepish look, stepping forward and placing a hand on Hook’s shoulder—more of a placating gesture than anything. “I said I was sorry.”

Hook immediately shrugged off his hand, the familiar click of his hook against Charming's wrist. “Easy on the coat. You and your lot have already helped it deteriorate faster than it should.”

“Shall we?” he said, gesturing toward the table.

Hook huffed in response but said nothing, striding past the prince and into the dining area. His eyes scanned the lavish room, taking in the gleaming chandeliers, the velvet-lined chairs, and the royal setup. For a moment, Charming saw a flicker of appreciation cross his face—just for a second—before Hook’s usual facade of nonchalance slipped back into place.

“Nice place you’ve got here,” Hook said, though the casual tone didn’t quite match the look in his eyes. “Bit excessive for a meal, don’t you think?”

Charming smirked, crossing his arms as he followed Hook inside. He could see through the pirate’s act. “If it hadn’t been for that food fight with Ariel and your friend during freshman year, none of this would’ve happened.”

“Yeah, well, she was pretty awesome for that.”

Charming rolled his eyes, though a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “Right. Let’s just sit and eat before you start a revolution in here too.”

They settled into their seats, a tense silence hanging between them. Charming could feel the weight of Hook’s gaze, sharp and calculating. This wasn’t some casual dinner. Both of them knew it, even if neither wanted to admit it.

The dinner had been silent for too long. Hook, never one to let tension sit without poking at it, decided to break it “So, what are your intentions, Your Highness? You’re a popular bloke around here. Getting lonely?”

Charming’s fork paused mid-air before he set it down, carefully. “I have friends.” His mind flickered to Aladdin and Jasmine, who often joined him for meals, bringing stories of their magic carpets adventures.

Then there were Ella and Bridget, after the two got together they always found time to drop by with baked treats—often enchanted with strange, unpredictable side effects, like turning his hair fully blue or making him float for a few minutes. 

Zelly, ever the life of the party, would bring her chameleon Pascal, and they’d all end up doing karaoke. After all, the royal dining area inexplicably had a karaoke machine tucked in the corner.

“So it’s not loneliness or complete boredom, why have me here?” Hook pressed.

Charming hesitated, trying to maintain a mysterious air. He knew Hook was too clever to show his cards too early. “I have something to ask,” was all he said, keeping his tone casual.

Hook leaned back, a smirk playing on his lips as he lounged in the velvet chair, clearly amused by the prince’s attempt at suspense. “What’s this all about, then? A royal invitation for little old me? You're not planning on throwing me in the dungeons after dessert, are you?”

Charming chuckled, though there was a hint of nervousness behind it. “No dungeons. Just… an arrangement.” He felt Hook’s guard go up instantly, the pirate’s smirk hardening into something more defensive.

“Arrangement?” Hook’s brow arched in mock curiosity, though there was no mistaking the sharpness in his tone. “What sort of arrangement would a prince want from moi ?”

“I need you to be my date,” Charming said, the words slipping out before he could fully gather his nerve. He paused, seeing Hook’s expression shift, and hurried to clarify, “Not in the traditional sense.”

Hook’s face didn’t change much. He leaned in slightly, his gaze sharp, like he was toying with a fish on a hook. “You went to so much trouble to impress me,” Hook said with snobbish amusement, “I’m flattered, but you’re not my type.”

Charming felt his face flush but pushed on. “My parents are throwing me this stupid ball, and I hate it. It’s all about me, and I just—” He suddenly found himself unraveling, words tumbling out in a rush. “I blurted out that I had a date, thinking it would stop them from pressuring me, but now it’s just worse, and I don’t know how to—”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold your horses, Prince,” Hook interrupted with a bemused smirk, holding up his hand. “That’s a lot of whining for me.”

Charming blinked, startled by Hook’s bluntness. Somehow, those few words snapped him out of his spiraling rant. He let out an embarrassed laugh, the tension easing from his shoulders. For a second, he found himself thinking Hook looked oddly…kinda hot. 

The pirate, for all his snark, had an air of control about him that made Charming’s stomach twist in a way he didn’t quite understand.

But Hook was getting up, clearly looking like he was about to leave. He couldn’t let him just walk out, not after coming this far. Desperation flickered in his chest, and he scrambled for a last-ditch effort.

“Wait!” Charming stood quickly, his hand brushing against Hook’s arm as he reached out. “I haven’t told you the benefits yet.”

Hook paused, turning halfway with a knowing gleam in his eyes. “Alright. I’m listening.”

Charming exhaled, thinking quickly. “You’ll get lots of opportunities being seen with me. The ball is in two days. You won’t have to pretend for long. You’ll get to live lavishly, and you don’t have to worry about me telling anyone about your… thieving incident.”

Hook’s eyes flickered, but instead of biting, he turned fully away, stepping toward the door. Charming felt his heart sink. He'd blown it. This was going to be harder than he thought—time for Plan B, whatever that was.

Then, Hook stopped, glancing over his shoulder with a smirk that made Charming’s pulse quicken. “I’ll do it.”

“What?” 

“I said I’ll do it,” Hook repeated, turning fully now, his expression unreadable. “I’ll be your boyfriend. For rent, of course.”

Charming bristled slightly. “That doesn’t sound very nice.”

“Well, that’s the reality, babe,” Hook teased, the last word slipping off his tongue like a taunt. The prince stiffened at the word. He didn’t like the way it sounded coming from Hook’s mouth. Or maybe he liked it too much, and that was the problem.

“Fine, we’ll talk tomorrow, lay down the ground rules. We can discuss everything over breakfast.”

“Blah, blah, so boring. You don’t need so many pleasantries to fake-date me, you know. We’re not writing a treaty.”

Charming stepped closer, his face inching into Hook’s space. “I’ll pick you up in the morning. We’ll discuss the plan then.”

Hook gave him a mocking grin, eyes flicking down between them before meeting Charming’s gaze again. “You just love a good scheme and a meal, don’t you? That’s pathetic—and kinda cute, actually.”

Something inside Charming snapped at that last line. “Who are you calling pathetic?” he growled, stepping even closer until they were face to face.

Hook’s eyes danced with amusement, but there was something else beneath the surface, something unreadable. For a brief moment, they stood there in awkward silence, close enough to feel each other’s breaths, their hands grazing.

The bell rang suddenly, cutting through the moment and pulling them back to reality. Charming took a step back, clearing his throat. “I’ll see you tomorrow?” He asked, his princely demeanor slipping back into place, though his voice was quieter than before.

Hook smirked, already slipping toward the door. “You know where to find me, Your Highness .”

Charming was still screwed how was he going to pull this sham? But he did make some progress he just hoped the pirate didn’t cause too much trouble.

👑

Notes:

Hope you enjoy the fic & Remember to give feedback!!! It is always appreciated. The fate of this fic is in y'alls hands its up to all of you whether this continues. (And if you reading this on tumblr. Thank you so much for giving this a read.)   Request go here on my tumblr.

[mermaidsirennikita]

I totally agree with everything you said about noncon/dubcon books. In general, when an author decides to change an already published book, the new edition should come out as "author's preferred text" or something similar. It's totally fine for an author to do that but not to make the original book disappear. It would be a great loss to lose the original texts, especially when it comes to old books, because of what you said: they reflect historical circumstances that can't be denied. Even with the best of intentions, it would be just another form of censorship. It is not healthy, or helpful, to pretend that uncomfortable and harmful things do not exist. In the broader sense, books with uncomfortable and painful subjects can help process trauma and also can help others to better understand or gain perspective on difficult situations. That is not to mention that in the case of romance, it should be a safe space to explore all kinds of feelings and desires. The key here is that, as readers, it is the easiest thing in the world to just stop reading when something is not our cup of tea.

Exactly.

And the thing is, I see two separate issues here, tbh. Because I see a lot of... white feminist takes... in romancelandia conflating consent issues in old romance novels with racism in old romane novels. And while these are both serious issues that need to be discussed, I don't think they should ever be considered equivalent. Because they aren't. Misogyny and racism (and queerphobia, which is less discussed re: issues in older books, but is certainly present) can certainly overlap, but while every woman can experience misogyny, not every woman can experience racism. And women who have experienced misogyny can be racist and benefit from racist, misogynistic society, right?

Plus, I mean—I think there's been a huge push in romance to address misogyny and consent issues over the last decade or so. There has been... less of a push to address racism. There's a really popular dark/mafia romance writer who gets recommended ALLLLLLLL the time despite it being a very well known fact in romance circles that she said some incredibly racist shit during the BLM protests, and therefore, we can assume, is hugely racist. (Danielle Lori. It's Danielle Lori. You're welcome.) With the rate at which she's recommended, I highly doubt everyone who's recommending her just... doesn't know. Everyone acted shocked and appalled when Tillie Cole published her KKK romance, but y'all, she's still publishing away! She's got her readers! We let that slide under the rug.

And there's the more casual racism in trad, too. Evie Dunmore's A Rogue of One's Own is a super popular tradpub title. Not only does the hero have a bastardized Shiva tattoo as a plot point (because he's... really into... Indian culture... I guess?)... he's also a bi man victimized by a dangerous gay villain. So, casual racism and casual homophobia in a book tradpubbed in 2020.

Sooo... while I think misogyny, consent issues, homophobia, and racism are all linked to different factors in the history of romance (though they do overlap in some books) I feel that it's pretty obvious that readers who enjoy the fantasy presented in a bodice ripper dubcon book (or a dark romance dubcon book published in 2024) are not coming from the same space as someone who'd read that KKK romance and think there's nothing amiss at all.

However, I feel it's so important to keep both content that I think is pretty harmless—I just don't think a book like A Hunger Like No Other, in which the consent is Bad, is going to reinforce a misogynistic society on a wide scale... I think it's there to accommodate a pretty common rape fantasy, and dude, rape fantasies are common and we should probs come to terms with how they can be and how people who have them can be feminists lmao—and content that I think is HARMFUL.

Because yeah dude. I think it's pretty fucked that A Rogue of One's Own is what it is. But I don't want it to be erased 50 years from now. I don't really want people to not know that Kleypas originally played into some pretty racist tropes with Hello Stranger. Not only because I want those authors to just have to own that shit... and for readers who enjoy them to have to reconcile with that... But because it's just like. Literally a record of the time in which it was published. Not the time in which it was set, because historical fiction never truly reflects the setting. The time in which it was published.

And there's a difference between why we're keeping that shit and why we're keeping that noncon/dubcon (though again, it can overlap). Good people aren't seeking out racist romance novels, applauding the antisemitism in a Heyer book, etc.

But it's like... to me... I would no sooner remove that content from a romance novel than I would watch a cut of Breakfast at Tiffany's without that horrible Mickey Rooney yellowface character.

I mean.... I grew up loving that movie. And when I became aware of what that was, I had to question some shit. I should have to question that shit. I should have to think about why anyone thought that was okay. Why people STILL think it's okay.

It seems small, but it MATTERS. These little bits and pieces of erasure add up.

And like... yeah. People may not give authors like Kleypas, who I imagine did not think herself a racist when she wrote the Hello Stranger shit, and who did seem to hold herself accountable and apologize, room. They may just go "fuck that racist" and dismiss her. And that's... just how it goes. They're allowed to do that. If you're South Asian and read that or hear about it and go "never reading her again"... I mean, your word is pretty much the final word there. She can't expect you to accept her apology.

I just also think it's really important that this information is available and that the text is availale so that people can make a choice, too. There are authors I read who have written books I wouldn't recommend. I've read them. I've gone "Man, this book is good otherwise, but this part is really not good" and I don't recommend them and I keep them in the back of my mind if I read more. We need to be able to make informed decisions, if we choose, about who we support. People can learn, but like... we shouldn't pretend there wasn't a time when they were fucked.

So. Yeah. A lot of things happening, some of which are harder to talk about than others. What frustrates me is that I think romance has a lot of convos about sexism and misogyny (and the should) but not as many about racism and queerphobia. And tbh, I think that means we miss the harder convos a lot of the time.

(Wonder why that is.)

[kajaono]

Why comparing the ending of GO2, OFMD and SPN with each other is a) disrespectful toward OFMD and GO and b) takes not into account the big steps we made in LGBTQ representation

During the last days I saw many jokes: Ha ha, every gay person ends up in super hell after their confession." First at all: Of course, if you only take a brief look they all seem the same. Castiel confesses and is sucked into the empty, Ed confosses and is left behind by Stede, Crowley confesses and has to witness Azi leaving him behind. Is there a theme here? Most definitly. But imo the only thing those scenes have in common is the Leaving-part and the confession-part, everything else is so different.

Let me walk you through it. First Destiel, the blueprint, some of you might call it:

I am glad they made Castiel canonly gay and confirmed his love for Dean eventually? Yeah but everything about this was a mess. We had 11 seasons of queerbaiting first. Then he confesses his love, immeditaly gets killed off and is never really mentioned again. The End. Making his love for Dean textual was neither a win for the queer community nor brave nor good storytelling. It was cheap move: "Look how inclusive we are", while actually including gay suffering and bury your gays. This was just a bunch of straight writers and a homophobic studio knowing it is their last season and making actual zero effort to give their queer character a happy end or proper storytelling.

This is nowhere like the endings OFMD and GO gave us.

So why are OFMD and GO different? I will look at them here seperatly and then add a small summary at the end. First OFMD, just because it was aired first.

OMFD

First at all, you need to see the ending in the context of the whole show. The whole show is 100% "Yes Homo". We have non binary, poly, bi and gay people who get treated incredible respectful, human and full of care. This first season always had a very clear end: Stede and Ed will confess their love to each other. " This was never: "Ugh, actually Castiel should have died ten seasons earlier and we actually have no clue what to do with him. He only sticks arounds because fans like him. Here, he is gay, can we NOW finally kill him off?" And don't forget Dean was quickly the next one to be killed by a rusty nail.

Gentlebeard wasn't a simple teary "I love you". It was a well crafted love confession, with a beautiful kiss. This show made a huge step forward in gay comedies imo. With OFMD we finally have a mainstream show that showed that you can write a comedy with an all queer cast without the jokes being about queerness. Its not like ODAAT. I love that show, but Elena always needed to crack a joke about her being a lesbian. But not OFMD. This show said very clear: "We might be all gay here, but the real joke is that they are shit pirates." It showed that it works. Gay topic do not need to be touched carefully, and not every queer character needs suffering or a coming out arc either. This show showed that gay people can just be... be who every they want. And I am sure many shows will follow.

But Stede and Ed were also split up, i hear you say. Yes, but them being split up is part of an story arc. The authors have already confirmed that this show is planned for three seaons, we just finished part 1. This seperation is hence not permantly. Actually quite the opposite. The authors knew how quickly queer shows get cancelled and still took the risk to seperate the main couple as a cliffhanger. And you know what? OFMD showed that queer shows can survive that. It even increased the demand for the show. Like it would have been for a straight couple. It is super common thing to end straight shows with the main heterosexual couple being split up and one rushing to fix the mess. - The end- Some straight shows do that every season finale. (*cough* Scorpions *cough* what?). Also Castiel ending in super hell was permanent, no turning back. This here? In OFMD everyone runs into each other the whole time, no matter how big the ocean is. They will be fine.

Good Omens 2

Good Omens started out completly different then OFMD but kinda has the same outcome as OFMD.

This whole story started as a book about two best friends. And even when it got adapted into a show and the lead actors said: Actually they are in love" But the author still said: "I want to honor the story I wrote with my friend. They love each other, yes, but what kind of love is up to you. Here they are, having a happy end. Everything else is up to you". But then we all asked him for another season. And he started writing it and suddenly had the whole creative freedom. And he saw how big the demand was for queer representation in an major prime show (or in general) and realized times have changes and said: "Fuck it" and just... did it. This is also so HUGE compared with Destiel. We have asked the writers and actors for years to make Destiel canon. They only laughed at us, mocked us and later used "eye fucking" as a joke term in their script. But only going there, after 20 years and taking no risk. Neil did none of those things. He saw the fans, the queer fans, their theories and then just did it.

In the past many showrunner said: "I don't want to make them gay. Its not the story I want to tell/It wouldn't fit the character" Neil proved them wrong. And this is also a huge step imo. Because even today we have really little showrunners who see their fans asking for a queer main lead/queer main lead romance and just doing it. Most showrunner do it never (Supernatural, Bridgerton) or after a lot of bargaining (The Witcher). Neil showed that it doesn't ruin your story. If you care for your characters and know your characters and feel that they want out of the closet, then let them out of the closet. Some showrunners should realize that sometimes the happiness of their characters is more important then their own plan.

And I really hope many showrunners will follow Neils example. Johnlock? Sprik? Idk how many more: "Male friendships where just written differently back then. They are just best friends:" I can witness before I go crazy. I hope Crowley and Azi are only the first to walk out of the closet, I hope many more will follow.

TL:DR. Comparing Destiel with OFMD and GO2 is disesteeming the huge steps we made in LGBTQ representation. If Ineffable Husbands and Gentlebeard would be a straight couple noone would compare them with each other simply because they broke up during a season finale. And this shows how much work we still have to do regarding LGBTQ representation. Now we need to get a renwal, because we are just getting started

[butch-something]

i look like myself to myself and also i like passing as a man but it can get weird and isolating when i am constantly assumed to be a cis straight man but not ingrained into or even waved at passing by the door of straight society, largely ignored because they read something queer, and when i am read as queer it is as a cis gay or bi man. men do not frequently go out of their way to interact with me and nor do i them (and when i am assumed to be cis and straight like them i feel like i turn off part of my brain and hide a part of myself to be able to interact w them as that) but the only time men do significantly interact w me they read me as a man and want to do gay things (but also want to never actually talk about it or tell anyone about it or be visible about it) so it’s for sexual availability to men but as a man but secret and i’m not attracted to nor do i really care about men. at school or work and in groups where social activity occurs and the gay and trans people tend to group up and i’m there too but often go ignored (as in literally not spoken to) or i’ve overheard “there’s only (x number not including me) of us here!” until i say i’m a transmasc butch but even then ! my new roommate, as in we live in the same house and they don’t know?, who had only seen and heard me express my butchness tranmascness and lesbianism pointed at and called me a straight man after i said i was not attracted to men . we are all nonbinary and trans though ? and then unrelated to them but also for some reason so many trans and nonbinary people i have met have been obsessed with sex assigned at birth (this is not me making a vague yet pointed remark that obfuscates what language like tme/tma or other language used to analyze transmisogyny means, here i’m talking about other trans usually other tme non-intersex ppl who are obsessed with and believe in afab and amab as distinct and meaningful categories and won’t hear anything else …) which has no standing on my identity as a woman or butch . and yeah also i’m a man too on my own terms too . and really at the end of the day i am what i am and people read me however they read me and death of the author and all. the people that love me see me for me and that’s what matters so vent over i guess but like also . can anyone relate lol it’s kind of lonely right

[cdyssey]

Yellowjackets 2.03 Thoughts:

TW: Cannibalism

Oh, my God. Jackie’s shriveled, burnt, picked over hand.

Coach Ben and Paul. Cute!! I’m digging Paul’s earring.

TAISSA NOT KNOWING WHAT HAPPENED TO JACKIE. I AM SO UNWELL. NAT BEING PROTECTIVE. VAN BEING BLUNT ABOUT THE REALITY AND SCARED ABOUT THE REALITY OF HOW ADVANCED TAI’S SLEEPWALKING IS.

“… you ate her face.” Tai screaming and just utterly losing it. These girls. My god.

“I guess… no one wants breakfast.” MARI ANQNWJDJWJWJSJS.

Nat being a leader when it comes to practicalities in the cabin, suggesting that Jackie’s body be moved to the plane. But it’s also so fascinating at a power dynamic level that she checks in with Shauna here too. It’s the fact that she knows just how much Jackie meant to Shauna on one hand, but it’s also that Shauna is someone who subtly influences the team as well. They all look to her reactions in both timelines. It was her permission that they needed to eat Jackie.

Augh, Ben saying that burying her out there will make it look like she died with the rest of them. That’s probably the cover story they give to Jackie’s parents + the authorities, which is harrowing. If so, they erase five months of Jackie’s life to conceal what happened at her death.

That transition between young Lottie and adult Lottie!!!!!! ALSO, ALSO, I LAST WEEK, I JUST REALIZED THAT SIMONE KESSELL PLAYS BREHA ON KENOBI!!!

The antlers on Lottie’s quarters. That’s my Antler Queen right there.

LISA JUST STRAIGHT UP CHOPPING THAT CHICKEN’S HEAD OFF. Listen, there’s a somewhat decent chance that she’s wilderness baby. If so, like Mama, she’s got a way with butchering animals.

Simone. :(( I will actually lose it if she dies. SHADOW TAISSA DRAWING THE SYMBOL ON HER WIFE’S HAND. MA’AM.

THE VERUCA SALT NEEDLE DROP.

“I wasn’t stalking you. I was just finding a suitable nursing home for my mother.” AKQKDFJJSDJJD. Them casting Elijah Wood as an off-kilter Reddit stalker weirdo is the casting choice of a century.

RANDY FUCKING WALSH!

I didn’t think I was going to ship Misty and Walter, but omfg, their chemistry is SO good.

“IT WAS THE STRAWBERRY LUBE.” HELP ME GOD. THE WAITRESS JUST TURNING AWAY IQKQOQKWIWOWIDDISN.

“I THINK THIS STUFF IS FOR BISEXUALS AND GOTHS.” I’M CRYIN G.

“YOU’RE NO FUN.” ANQKQKOQKQOWIEIDIDDJSJJSJWWJS, this is the most insane marriage in the world. It isn’t just the fact that the strawberry lube was a seminal moment to Jeff in his marriage with a woman who survived 19 months in the Canadian wilderness and came back wrong, but it’s also the fact, that she remembers word-for-word what he said. I’m laughing so fucking hard.

Shauna is 100% bi. But is she goth? Discuss!! (Nat, on the other hand, definitely fits the descriptor.)

“It wasn’t about you. I mean, sure it was exciting. Exciting… mm, that’s not the right word. Um… okay. It made me feel like… I didn’t know what was going to happen. And I liked that. I liked not feeling like this… boring version of me.” Such perfect dialogue. It wasn’t about Jeff even from the start. It was about Jackie. It was about loving her, hating her, wanting to be her, wanting to fuck her, entirely consume her. And she did, she did, she did.

But we also get other stuff here. The fact that she misses the unpredictability of the wilderness. And yeah, she absolutely was excited, even if she doesn’t admit it here. My god. I love her.

JEFF TRYING TO BE SPONTANEOUS AND TAKING SHAUNA TO CHURN BUTTER, BLOW GLASS, OR BLACKSMITH. WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS MAN (AFFECTIONATE)? SNWJQOQKWJS.

HOLY FUCK AT SHAUNA DEALING WITH THE THIEF. LIKE, DID YOU SEE THE ACTING MELANIE LYNSKEY WAS DOING. THE PRIMAL RAGE IN HER EYES.

“Are you Rambo?!”

“Callie’s old toy that she loved probably more than she loved me?” I’m actually unwell about this line. From what Melanie has said in interviews, so much of her arc this season is going to be about motherhood. I’m often thinking about the traumatic birth that Shauna experienced in the wilderness and how she brought that to the table with Callie, how she tried her best anyway, how Callie grew up to be a normal goddamn teenager. But now that she is older, now that she can see Shauna’s cracks and the facades and all the lies she’s told herself and others, that relationship is fractured. The Sadecki family, normal though they’ve seemed for all these years, has fundamentally been unwell from the start.

This is Melanie Lynskey’s world and we’re just living in it. Every microgesture is so, so raw.

LOTTIENAT OVER THE SHOULDER PROXIMITY. THAT WAS CHEMISTRY THERE.

The swirl of rocks around the beehives… it’s like the spiral from Sammy’s drawings.

Bee metaphor talk!!!!!!! OH, GOD. THATCUT TO THE BEES. TERRIFYING

Lottie, my love, stop offering ur blood tea. 😭

Oh, my God. Jackie’s remains being so small that Nat can easily hoist her over her shoulder.

Shauna staring out the window with tears in her eyes. :((

“But I wanted it too.” SCREAMING.

“I don’t know, I just feel so fucked up.” / “I’m scared, Lottie. Everything is out of control, like I don’t feel like I know what’s going to happen next.” God, the exact echo of what adult Shauna says. Shauna is always revisiting the moment of Jackie’s death and her consumption.

Lottie revealing the gender of Shauna’s baby, lmfao.

The girls getting so excited about a wilderness baby shower. 🥺 Crystal combing Misty’s hair in the background!!!

MISTY TELLING WALTER TO HIT RANDY FOR INSULTING NAT!!!!! THAT’S HER GIRLFRIEND.

Shipping is so much fun in YJ. I basically just ship everyone. Juliette and Melanie were so right. All those girls just made out in the woods.

“Forgive me. I have IBS.” QKWKWOQOWIEJDIEIEIDOEWJEID.

WALTER JUST STRAIGHT UP SLAPPING HIM. YELLOWJACKETS IS A GODDAMN COMEDY.

Taissa and Akilah making a crib. 😭 I am so soft. And now I’m teary-eyed. Oh, my God. I want Akilah to live. It isn’t fair what happened to these girls.

“That’s good, Mar. The baby can dream that it’s being stabbed to death every night.” ALOQOQOQJSJSEJ.

Mari hearing dripping that no one else does… she was also the one to feel something crawling down her back way back in S1.

“Too bad they didn’t listen to your broth idea.” JACKIE BONE BROTH. Oh, my fucking God.

CRYSTAL ABSORBING HER IDENTICAL TWIN IN THR WOMB WIWODJIEWKS.

The parallels between the Misty/Crystal storylines and the Misty/Walter storylines… Misty has finally found her kindred spirit. What the fuck happens to them?

Ben’s still starving because he didn’t eat Jackie. Oh, God, if he dies of starvation, I’ll lose it.

“You always say those girls are vicious, little monsters.” They’ve always been vicious. The forest gave them permission to be wild.

“You’re lucky, you know? I think shit is gonna get a lot worse out here. But you’re already dead, so… way to make everyone jealous of you one last time.” [Nat chuckles.] “I’m sorry… for what we did. Who knows? Eating you could be the reason why we survive the winter, so… thanks. Rest in peace, Jackie.” I AM FUCKING UNWELL. JACKIE, WHO DIED PEACEFULLY IN THE SNOW, WAS THE LUCKY ONE. NAT HAS BEEN JEALOUS OF JACKIE. OH, GOD. JACKIE, THE POPULAR TEENAGE QUEEN AND NAT, THE PERPETUAL LONER. NAT KNOWING THAT THE CANNIBALISM MIGHT HAVE BEEN ESSENTIAL FOR THEIR SURVIVAL. BUT HOW SURVIVAL ISN’T NECESSARILY A DESIRABLE FATE.

CGI WHITE MOOSE.

I love Randy fucking Walsh. So dumb. <3

Van trying to stay awake for Taissa… oh, God, and now willingly following her. Jasmin’s vocal inflection change when she’s playing shadow Tai is chilling.

THE MAN WITH NO EYES LEADS SHADOW TAI. DO NOT SHOW ME THAT MAN ON MY SCREEN. I’M NOT PREPARED FOR HIM TODAY.

OH, GOD, TAISSA HOLDS SHADOW TAI BACK.

The fucking flashback to him in the mirror. Ugh, scariest moment in the show for me. I do think, though, there’s gotta be something more complex going on with him than just, “he’s evil and trying to kill Tai.” I think he’s actually serving as some sort of fucked up protector for her.

Kevyn Tan at the gym!!! Wearing a backwards hat, lmao. Not Jeff going all angry-bro at him. Sir, you’re probably going to be a central part of a murder investigation. Don’t antagonize a detective. 😭

DON’T TALK ABOUT ADAM WITH HIM. JEFF. GODDAMN.

“Well, fuck your diligence. Okay? ‘Cause I-I know her.” / “We’ve been married almost twenty-five years. I know my wife, and I trust her.” HE’S SO DUMB, BUT I CAN’T HELP BUT LOVE HIM FOR BEING SUCH W RIDE-OR-DIE FOR SHAUNA. GODDAMN. Also, the fact that they got married almost straight after she returned from woods. Jfc!!!

My poor little meow meow with a gun is about to go get her car back. <3

“Have you ever peeled the skin off s human corpse? It’s not as easy as you might think. It’s really, uh, stuck on us. Skin. You have to roll back just the edges of it, so you can get a good enough grip to-to really pull. Which, again, isn’t easy. People are always so sweaty when you kill them. Just, like, oily. There’s a look people get… when they realize they’re going to die.” [Shauna smiles, tears in her eyes.] “It’s that one. My hand wasn’t shaking because I was afraid. It was shaking because of how badly I wanted to do this.” MELANIE FUCKING LYNSKEY.

I AM LOSING MY MIND. OH, MY GODDDDDDDD. SHE IS SO FUCKING GOOD.

AND THEN, AFTER COMPOSING HERSELF, SHE SLIPS BACK INTO A MIDWESTERN THANK YOU. UNREAL.

I SUPPORT WOMEN’S WRONGS.

Ben fantasizing what he should have said and done with Paul. :((((

VAN’S LITTLE CHANGING TEEPEE.

A MONOLOGUE FROM STEEL MAGNOLIAS. I’M CRYING.

NOT THE SALLY FIELD MONOLOGUE ABOUT SHELBY’S DEATH. HELP ME. I’M LOSING IT.

SHE’S BODYING IT. AKQOQOWJSJSIWIWIWIIWIAJSSJ. SHE GOT IT DOWN PERFECTLY. THE SOUTHERN ACCENT AND EVERYTHINT.

The girls being deeply moved by the monologue because it’s about grief and violence and how those things can be easily intertwined. They’ve lost so, so fucking much: their friends, their girlhoods, their innocence. And they just want to hit something.

Shadow Tai in the fucking mirror. Oh, my GOD. They’re doing an excellent job of making Tawny Cypress look like she hasn’t slept in three weeks.

Shadow Tai wanting her to go to Van. 😭

Tai trying to call Jessica Roberts, lmao. I miss my favorite morally fucked up fixer.

“Hacking… you can just say it,” WKWKJWDJEJJEJDDJ.

MISTY AND THE ADAM’S MOTHER LIE. THEATER NERD FOR LIFE HELP.

“Maybe I’m just a bored Moriarty looking for his Sherlock.” And Misty walking away because she doesn’t know what to do with that vulnerability. 😭

I actually just teared up at Shauna placing the stuffed animal next to Callie. Oh, my God, and Callie snuggling it.

Adult Nat finally putting on purple… hhhhhgh.

I think Lottie and Nat should kiss. <3

LOTTIE, YOUR WELLNESS ADVICE IS S LITTLE FUCKED UP, LOVE. <33

The symbol…

Lottie and Nat fighting, revealing where ALL of the group straddles the tension between them. The only (main-ish) girl who doesn’t really reveal her stance is Shauna.

TAI RUSHING TO SHAUNA.

THE DEAD BIRDS. THAT SOUND WAS TERRIFYING.

“Did these guys just suicide on our roof?” ANWKQKWJDJWSJS.

Them all putting the birds at Lottie’s feet… worshippers leaving offerings for their god.

LOTTIE’S BEES. WHAT THE HELL.

This Tori Amos song is stellar.

Oh, my God, the camera pulling back and revealing that it was Lottie’s hallucination. Her panic and grief. Jesus fucking Christ.

The GRIP that these women have on me.

[transsexualprophet]

reading gods worst article on tma (Narrating the (Queer) Gothic in the Podcast The Magnus Archives, Maria Juko) and its so bad that its funny. btw this got published in a book (Rethinking Gothic Transgressions of Gender and Sexuality, edited by sarah faber and kerstin-anja münderlein, 2024) and I can only assume the editors didn't listen to tma themselves because good lord what are these takes. come with me as I read this mess

strong start when it claims the entities seek to torture and destroy humanity. patently untrue. we know they have some sentience, but the focus on humanity does a disservice to gerry explicitly saying "you think people are so special its only our fear that counts?". also "destroy". how are you going to get fear if the entirety of humanity is destroyed. we know what the entities wanted (or at least what the web wanted) it is explicitly stated in mag 200. it says so right there so explicitly that I find it impressive if Juko missed it.

calls the beholding the antagonist? if you want to call Any fear the antagonist id go for the web, but even then, antagonist is not the role id ascribe to a lovecraftian entity

"with the podcast’s final season set in a world dominated by the Eye that Jon et al. ultimately overcome to save the world" / "The world comes to depend on [jonmartins] relationship, with the two of them becoming queer heroes." save the world??? heroes?

4. stupidly funny implications. interesting citation for georgie but that's not important right now. the point is the fight against evil and the reading alleging tma says being queer will get you Heroic Powers. Juko's forgetting about the queer characters that get Evil Powers (all of them. all of the powers are evil. that's the point.) did the archivist utilize ace and bi power when he became the lynchpin of the apocalypse and tortured strangers

5. "As a case in point, inclusivity starts at the level of casting: female police officer Basira Hussain is voiced by Frank Voss, who uses they/them pronouns." very true but idk. frank voss and jonny sims are just pals, ill allow Some implications from this but the author is using it to imply more intentional focus on inclusivity then I think jonny was doing

6. "First, the podcast’s main character, the asexual biromantic Jon, is bestowed with supernatural powers, challenging not just heterosexual but all sexual norms of society." BESTOWED? stop using the word bestowed here oh my God. he is not a superhero!! did Juko listen to the entirety of tma without any moral grayness happening here??? also ?? jons bestowed supernatural powers are in no way related to his asexuality & biromanticism??

7. christ. this isnt a bad tma take but it is reminding me why I wanted to quit my literature analysis bachelor

8. did jon utilize ace and bi power when he betrayed martin. did martin utilize gay power when he stabbed jon. jesus christ what do you mean humanity's salvation. the apocalypse isnt fixed at the end by the power of love.

9. i guess? if you felt like it? tma really isn't a queer narrative in my option but I guess?? you could read it like that. if you wanted to. I'm unsure if you should though because these people are deeply unwell

10. "And particularly in the first seasons, Jon and his colleagues often fail to control the evil entities, losing for example colleague Tim at the end of the second season, which leads to a rift between some of the Institute’s members" yeah because truly they were thriving before that. they were the bestest of friends before tim died. they all held hands and danced in circles

11. unsure how much longer i can take this. this isn't the X-Men

12. "[Jon] could be defined as an asexual biromantic who uses his love for Martin as a form of power to save the world." no he couldn't. next

13. "With this in mind, Jon’s exploration of the Archives becomes a metaphor for accepting his (a)sexuality." HUH. NO IT ISNT? jons asexuality isn't relevant narratively At All. go home.

14. for the love of god can anyone hear me. its so dark in here. were the beholding and jonah magnus asexuality allies when they helped jon become an avatar. the sentence after this calls jon the hero of the narrative again btw. patently untrue

15. "Only by accepting his power can Jon save the world." jon didn't save the world.

Juko discusses melanie & georgie but her takes on them are pretty normal and decent in my opinion. if anyone wants a pdf of this horror let me know & ill send it. I'm so annoyed I'm considering writing an email about this. btw it called jonmartin "enemies to lovers" trope and also said their relationship "starts heteronormative and changes to a more equal footing, whilst retaining heteronormative elements". about the gay couple.

to conclude: I don't know which podcast juko listened to about a heroic narrative about queer love that saves the world, but its not the magnus archives. did you know that the eye is an asexuality ally?

[mae-i-scribble]

I've recently read through all of fabiniku (my life as an ordinary guy who reincarnated as a girl or something like that for the english title) and it's just been such a fun and genuine time that made me so much more endeared to the series than I thought I was going to be going into this. And for me it touches on a very important part of representation and the argument that queer people will inherently tell queer stories better (spoiler alert i think this mentality is simplistic and unrealistic). Because full disclosure, yeah the author of fabiniku is not someone i assume is the best ally on the planet, and i dont even know if she's queer or not. Her author notes have some pretty :/// stuff in them about trans identity and the idea that being trans is a fetish or childish choice. However, there could also be translational errors messing up what exactly she means, and I can't exactly translate myself, so there is some doubt in that regard. But regardless of the author's opinions, none of that changes the very genuine and heartfelt story she is telling with Tachibana in fabiniku.

(putting the rest under a readmore bc its getting longer than i thought)

There's a reason fabiniku got its reputation as one of the queerest isekai's to ever isekai and that reputation is well deserved bc holy shit yeah these bitches gay and trans as hell. Fabiniku does something with its queer narrative that I personally really appreciate: it sidelines the queer themes. Now this may seem contradictory, but for me, I don't always want queer stories about being queer, I want the queer elements to be a part of the narrative without it being focused on them. And fabiniku absolutely delivers on this. It isn't the story of tachibana finding out he's trans and jinguuji finding out he's gay but also kinda technically bi now- it's a batshit insane isekai romcom about 2 best friends realizing they have feelings for each other. Of course, those queer elements are still very much there, but they're entrenched in the characters, not in the author saying "see this aspect of identity, i want to use these characters as a vehicle to tell a story about it." (Not that there's anything wrong with that, its just a difference in writing goals and how one goes about writing themes/stories)

Fabiniku was never trying to be anything profound or meaningful in terms of queer representation, its mostly a gag manga with some large overarching story beats, but the author's earnestness in portraying the romance and personal growth gives the series a real heart that 1)makes it enjoyable unlike some other comedy based isekai and 2) stops it from being offensive representation. Tachibana is a guy who finds himself becoming a girl one day without and warning, and his slow journey into realizing what exactly he wants in regards to his gender identity is never used as the butt of the joke or mocked. (I'm using he/him for tachibana bc literally as of a couple chapters ago we just got him admitting he may not want to go back to being a guy, he's still on the first steps of his trans journey). In the same vein Jinguuji's love of Tachibana is never truly treated as "only now bc tachibana is a girl, no way did jinguuji love him before nope nope." (yes the initial premise suggests this interpretation, but as the manga grows on it is increasingly clear that both these 2 loved each other before this isekai shenanigans began).

There's a lot more words in my head, but Im gonna wrap it up here. Fabiniku is hardly "perfect" representation, but it is telling a meaningful story with a lot of love put into it regardless. Blaming its mistakes on the author not being trans or gay while ignoring its strengths is useless nitpicking. I saw a post saying it would be a much funnier manga if a trans person wrote it, which is such an illogical point to make that I just had to go ????? at my screen for a minute. There's a lot to talk about with this story, and that's what you took away from it?? And im not saying there aren't criticisms to be made, I still think Jinguuji's arc should have been about him realizing that even if he didn't like women, it didn't change the fact that he was attracted to Tachibana- would have made for a more in character arc for him but again, the author was never intending for anything more than a romantic comedy manga, so I won't hold it against her too much.

Anyways everyone go watch or read fabiniku you won't regret it its so fucking good