#the event is only a few parts out so far so we haven’t seen the conclusion yet

[cerealmonster15]

Hi I'm just watching the Twisted Wonderland stuff from the sidelines, did they really add a Jack Skellington boy to the cast

WHAHAHEHFJGY LOL YA!! this year’s Halloween event is nightmare before Christmas themed, there’s a new character named Skully J Graves who does seem to be based on Jack, but also Jack and sally and all them are also in the event because it’s one of the special events where they go into a magic dimension book(don’t worry about it) where the characters from the source material are just In There (like when they had the stitch event and we saw Actual Stitch and Also Gantu) (this is only the second time they’ve had a book event) (it’s jarring seeing the cartoony characters right next to the sparkly anime boys LOL but it’s fun)

So he’s there as a special event boy!!!

[ladykailitha]

Icarus Part 3

Hello! If you haven't seen it yet, I've got a set schedule for what story posts on what days now (as seen here) and this one as well as Well Met By Moonlight, Batshit Soulmates, and Never Hold Back Your Step... will still be posting just on rotation until I can finish some of my WIPs. (I may be stretching myself a bit thin having six going at the same time.)

In this one we have the concert. Eddie stumbles on something big and doesn't know how to deal with it all. And Uncle Wayne is bestest as always.

@emly03 @redfreckledwolf @itsall-taken @rozzieroos @mira-jadeamethyst

Part 1 Part 2

****

The day of the concert dawned abhorrently cheerful and bright. Not a cloud in the sky or any accidents that would prevent Eddie from having to take Dustin to this event. He wouldn’t deign to call it a concert. He had heard the album and seen their posters, but he refused to wander over to YouTube and watch videos of their concerts, interviews, their music videos.

He didn’t want to be even more disappointed that they were all flash and no substance then he was sure he was going to be for the next two hours.

Dustin rolled his eyes when Eddie parked in the huge concert parking lot.

“You’re just salty because I like them as much as I like Corroded Coffin,” he huffed getting out the car. “You have to concede that Abaddon’s vocals are killer.”

Eddie scoffed. “Do not. I haven’t heard them live. Way too many artists use autotune too much these days.”

“You sound like that meme,” he sneered, “‘Old Man Yells at Cloud’.”

Eddie swatted at him playfully. “Am not.” Dustin raised his eyebrow skeptically and he threw his arms in the air. “I’m not. I am a very serious musician, Dusty. The last thing metal needs is some band that can’t write or even play their own instruments. This isn’t pop.”

“You are such an asshole,” he said and turned toward the entrance, leaving Eddie to jog to catch up with him.

Eddie sighed and put his arm around Dustin’s shoulder. “I’m sorry. You’re right. I am being an asshole. I turned into the person I swore I would never be. Those shit for brains critics that hated Corroded Coffin when we first got on the scene. And that was wrong of me.”

Dustin sighed, too. “I just want you to like them too. They are so good if you’d just give them a chance.”

Eddie breathed out through his nose. “Yeah. I can at least give them that.”

They got to their seats and Eddie was a little impressed at Claudia Henderson’s Ticket Master foo. They weren’t front row, but they were only a couple of rows back so you could actually see the stage without having to strain their necks and smack dab in the center of the row.

Dustin would have the best time. And now it was up to Eddie not ruin it for the kid. Because yes, he was still a kid as far as Eddie was concerned. Twenty-one was so fucking young. That was how old most of the band was when they got their record deal, after all. They weren’t prepared for what came next, that’s for sure.

They got settled into their seats and Eddie watched as the rest of the crowd shuffled in. They were all about Dustin’s age with very few exceptions in either direction.

There seemed to be a color theme going on with the girls in the audience though. They were grouped in clumps of red, black, blue, or white. Which made sense if each band member stuck to a certain color palette.

Well he was about to find out, he supposed.

The lights dimmed. The crowd quieted down. The spotlight lit up the drumkit first. And Eddie knew that Gareth would be drooling over it. It was all black with black metal fittings. The kit seemed to collect light almost like a blackhole.

Then from the ceiling, a man dressed all in black being lowered onto the stage with large black raven wings on his back. He wore a black hooded coat over what, Eddie couldn’t tell. It was all black. The shirt, the pants, the boots. Even his mask was all black with even the eyes appearing closed. His feet touched the ground and the crowd went wild.

“Azrael!” the announcer called out.

Azrael settled on the throne and picked up black drum sticks.He counted time above his head and played a wicked solo to the adoring crowd’s absolute delight.

Dustin jumped up and down, screaming.

The spotlight moved to the right side of stage and the next band member descended from the ceiling. Large bat wings adorned his back and he was dressed in red leather fetish gear. Complete with tight leather pants that looked painted on and a matching harness highlighting his bare chest, peeking out from the red leather hooded coat.

His guitar was fucking gorgeous, though. A Warlock, much like Eddie’s own. It was custom painted red with black flames licking up the neck.

Eddie rolled his eyes, but it seemed he was the only one who thought the whole thing was over the top judging from the screams from the girls in the audience.

He didn’t just land gently on the stage like the drummer did, oh no. He fucking stomped onto the stage with a howl.

His wings, like the drummer’s ascended back into the rafters as the announcer shouted, “Asmodeus!”

And then Eddie really did roll his eyes. The demon of lust. Of course he was.

But seconds later Eddie’s jaw dropped to the floor as the man wailed on his guitar driving the crowd further into the frenzy.

Once he finished his solo the crowd quieted again and he could see why. Because just then, descending on gossamer wings that shimmered like starlight, was their bassist.

Everything about him was midnight blue and shimmering like the night. His mask was the face of the moon. He had his own hooded coat, but it was like the night sky, with some kind of crystal or gem sewn in to make the coat glimmer like stars.

His bass was something that Brian would have sold his own mother for and they were as thick as thieves. Eddie didn’t know much about basses considering his sweetheart was an electric guitar, but he could tell it wasn’t expensive but was perfect for his style. A style he showed off with gusto to the audience’s obvious delight.

“Astraeus!” the announcer cried.

Eddie decided that this one was his favorite. It played up the whole mysterious thing without the over the top flash of the guitarist or the sheer void of the drummer.

The audience hushed as the three members of the band began to play what was clearly the lead singer’s entrance music.

And holy fuck was Eddie screwed. This man was descending like a fucking angel sent from God, Jesus pose and all.

He was all in white with an opaque lace mask that had his mouth and chin cut out for him to sing. That surprised Eddie somewhat. He figured that the guy would have his whole face covered like everyone else in the band and that he could lip sync.

But nope. Apparently no one in this band did anything by halves.

The lead singer was wearing a sheer mesh crop top under the hooded floor length coats the whole band was wearing. Only his was white with a silk powder blue lining.

Eddie winced in sympathy. They must get boiling under the lights with those things on.

A few feet from the stage floor there was an explosive pop! And the feathers from his wings flew out into the crowd who was now screaming as if their life depended on the sheer volume coming out them. He looked over at Dustin who was no different.

When Eddie could see the stage again, this angel’s wings were now skeletal and gothic.

He landed in front of microphone whose stand had been decorated with a scarf in each of of the band members’ signature colors.

“Abbadon!” the announcer yelled for the final time.

And Eddie was in love. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing.

Dustin must have seen his expression because he was suddenly tugging on Eddie’s arm and screaming, “I told you!!”

“Indy!” Abbadon growled, grabbing the mic. “Thank you so much for having us! Let’s get this started.”

Then he began to sing and yeah, Eddie knew that the guy had charm, but this was a whole new level of epic. He was enthralled.

He didn’t utter a fucking word for several songs. But then it happened. Eddie couldn’t believe it. He hurried to snap a picture to make sure he wasn’t dreaming.

But there it was it in living color. He turned to Dustin to see if he saw it too, but the kid was too busy screaming and jumping up and down.

Eddie’s jaw fell.

That couldn’t be right, couldn’t it? That Dustin didn’t know? Eddie looked back up on stage and a lot of the puzzle pieces started slotting in place. His heart sank a little.

He shook his head to clear it of dark thoughts. He didn’t know the reason for any of this and leaping to conclusions would only get a shit ton of people hurt. Especially the boy next to him.

Eddie let the music wash over him. Let the magic of metal soothe his soul. Soon he was jumping up and down and headbanging with the rest of the crowd. Right hand flashing the devil’s horns, left hand out to steady himself he let himself enjoy the band’s stage presence.

****

To say that Eddie’s mind was fucking blown would be an understatement. He pestered Dustin all the way home with rapid fire questions. Where did the band tour last time? What was their schedule this time? Was it a six month tour or an eighteen month tour last time?

Dustin answered each question with growing excitement, thinking that Eddie had finally grown to love this band as much as he had.

Eddie on the other hand felt a growing sense of dread. Well... maybe dread was the wrong word. It was certainly a sinking feeling. One he really had to exam closely.

At least he could honestly say that he fell in love with the music before he found out his little secret.

And fuck what a secret it was.

He dropped Dustin off at home and drove out to the ranch that he had gifted to Wayne when Corroded Coffin first made it big. It was a beautiful, sprawled out home surrounded by acres of land and Eddie loved it even more than Wayne did.

Eddie stumbled through the door and was surprised to see Wayne drinking hot chocolate and reading a sports magazine in his expensive recliner. And yet, at the same time, not really that surprised.

“You do realize I’m no longer that fucked up kid with anger issues,” Eddie huffed on his way to the kitchen to grab a beer, “that were almost as bad as the troubles with the law, right?”

Wayne chuckled. “Maybe so. But you’re still my boy and I’ll keep worrying about you until the day I die.”

Eddie popped open the can of beer and sat down on the sofa. He leaned his head back on the back cushion with a heavy sigh.

Wayne raised an eyebrow. “What’s stewing around in that head of yours?”

Eddie slowly raised his head. “What would you do if you accidentally found out something about a friend that they were keeping from everyone they knew?”

Wayne set down his magazine. “That would depend on the secret. Is it hurting anyone?”

“Is what hurting anyone?” Eddie asked. “The secret?” Wayne nodded and Eddie frowned, really thinking about it.

“Maybe some feelings,” he said after a moment. “But it’s not dangerous like they committed a crime or anything. It’s not even about their sexuality.”

Wayne hummed thoughtfully. “And is it a big secret or a little one?”

Again Eddie was forced to think hard about what that meant. “I guess it depends on the person, but in my eyes it’s pretty big.”

The elder Munson nodded. “Do you feel hurt by this secret?”

“Yeah, yeah. I guess I do.” He bowed his head and let out a shuddering breath.

“Is there a reason you think he wouldn’t have told you?” Wayne pressed.

“Of course no–” Eddie stopped as his brain caught up to his mouth. “Shit.”

Wayne raised a questioning eyebrow.

“Yeah,” Eddie admitted shyly. “There’s a pretty good reason why he wouldn’t have told me. And now I feel like the shit friend.”

Wayne stood up and pulled Eddie into a big hug. “Maybe so, but you have the time to course correct and show this friend that you are worthy of his secret.”

Eddie nodded. “Thanks, Uncle Wayne,” he mumbled into Wayne’s neck.

“I’m just glad I could help.”

****

Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20 Part 21 Part 22 Part 23 Part 24 Part 25

Tag List: @spectrum-spectre @estrellami-1 @zerokrox-blog @gregre369 ​@a-little-unsteddie @chaosgremlinmunson @messrs-weasley @danili666 @chaoticlovingdreamer @maya-custodios-dionach @val-from-lawrence @goodolefashionedloverboi @i-must-potato @carlyv @wonderland-girl143-blog @justforthedead89 @vecnuthy @irregular-child @yikes-a-bee @bookbinderbitch @bookworm0690 @anne-bennett-cosplayer @awkwardgravity1 @littlewildflowerkitten @genderless-spoon @cinnamon-mushroomabomination @dragonmama76 @scheodingers-muppet @ellietheasexylibrarian @thedragonsaunt @useless-nb-bisexual @disrespectedgoatman @eyehartart @dawners @y4r3luv @cryptid-system @thespaceantwhowrites @tinyplanet95

[daydream-cement]

Love in Paris (NSFW)

Jane Murdstone x Reader

Author’s Note: When you had this written for days but just didn’t post it. Thank you to @alexusonfire for the beta!

Jane listened to the soft lull of the piano that ascended through the windows of the hotel lobby and up to where she curled up on a little chair on the balcony. She had never remembered this song being so lovely. There were no words to this tune, only the soff rise and fall of notes that made Jane feel like she was falling in love all over again. 

——

You had just arrived in Paris with Jane. a trip sold to your father as one to battle the hysteria brought on by winter. You two, however, hadn’t made it farther than the hotel room.

“How is Paris treating you?” Jane whispered to you. Your foreheads touching and breaths mingling softly as you snuggled together in bed. 

It was true that you could barely keep your hands off one another, but your kissing never surpassed the sensation of bodies pressed together in bed while hands softly wandered through hair and across backs. Jane had been fully surprised that she was able to wait so long, but this romantic love was unlike anything she had ever experienced and she was looking to savor every drop. 

“So far, so good… Although I haven’t seen much outside these four walls.” You answered honestly, nothing in your voice contained the desire to get up out of bed and leave the embrace of the ravenette. Your hands pressed to Jane’s back, holding her close.

“We have all the time in the world.” Jane breathed before pushing her lips to yours. 

The ravenette always had taken part in sexual encounters with women since her youth, but since she began dating you, your sex life had been nonexistent as you opted for more innocent forms of physical intimacy. You had been working together for nearly four years and three of those years, Jane considered you to be her best friend. You were the person whom she shared everything with and now Jane was interested in sharing in the next progression of physical affection. 

Like clockwork, as soon as you began kissing, you rolled over, bringing the ravenette to rest on top of you as you continued to make out. Your hands stroked up and down Jane’s sides, fingers tentatively sliding low to the base of the ravenette’s corset. 

Instead of restraining herself from bucking her hips against your middle, Jane softly began to grind on you. The ravenette’s skirts began to roll up her hips as the movement began. Jane took the next step to further the interaction by taking your hands from her waist and placing them high on her thighs. “I want you, darling… I want this…”

With a soft growl, you sat up with Jane still in your arms. You had been content with the pacing of your relationship, but the push from Jane lit a spark deep within you. Never had you wanted someone like you wanted Jane.

As Jane straddled your lap, your saliva mingled with slow, needy kisses. Her arms once wrapped around your neck now retracted themselves to begin undoing the laces of her corset. At the movement, you pulled from the ravenette so you could watch the events unfurl before you. 

With skill, the corset was loosened and shed within a few seconds and Jane couldn’t help but blush when she felt your heavy gaze on her bare chest. You only stared as your hands gently squeezed at Jane’s thighs. For a pregnant moment, there was no movement, only making Jane feel self conscious. Her fears were quickly dismissed when you spoke, your voice cracking as you did, “Y-ou are so…”

“You can… touch them…” Jane choked out. Her face felt like it was on fire, your face matching as it was a soft pink from your own nervousness. Seeing you blushing made the ravenette feel a tad bit better.

Your hands rose carefully, enveloping Jane’s breasts. You seemed in awe of the ravenette’s body, almost as if it felt that you were touching a priceless artifact. With a surge of bravery, you gave the ravenette’s breasts a soft squeeze, smiling to yourself at how much pleasure you derived from touching Jane. 

“Maybe try… using your mouth…” Jane urged, a hand circling to the back of your neck and giving a slight tug to guide your mouth to her chest. 

You didn’t need to be told twice. With a duck of your head, your mouth latched itself to Jane’s breast. You began nibbling and tasting at the ravenette’s flesh, the faint taste of Jane’s perfume gracing your tongue. 

Jane felt herself immediately dampen as you moaned against her skin, one nipple millimeters from your mouth as your hand palmed the other breast. “You’re so perfect. God, how are you so perfect?”

“I- I love you.”

You paused all movements and looked up at Jane, eyes soft at the notion Jane could be in love with you. Your lips were planted back on the ravenette’s in an instant, your hands holding Jane’s face in place as you kissed her over and over again. 

“I love you, Janey. More than I ever thought I could love another.”

With the omission now in the open, the intimacy only seemed to intensify. Simple kisses now included battling tongues and your once gentle squeezing now rougher and desperate. Jane’s skirt was now rolled around her waist, and you had taken the opportunity to slip your hands into her underwear and grope Jane’s ass. 

When Jane moaned at the increasing roughness, she pulled away from their kisses only to realize you were extremely overdressed.

“May I?” Jane asked with pouty eyes, her hands slipping around you to work at your corset.

You weren't too happy with having to relinquish your grip on Jane’s ass, but you did so in order to allow the ravenette to undress you. Piece by piece, Jane removed fabric from your torso, tossing your corset to the floor and peeled down the loose fabric that once covered your chest. When your muscled chest was revealed to Jane, she whimpered as she awestruck by your beauty. 

“You- Oh, sweeting...” The ravenette’s hands wandered to feel your breasts, fingers tweaking at your nipples. She took the time to pay attention to both nipples, sucking each in her mouth and moaning as her tongue swirled the sweet bud. Her mouth pulled away with a pop, her pupils blown with a desire she could no longer contain, “Touch me? Please?” 

You didn’t verbally reply, but instead you nodded once, choking back nerves and the feeling of lack of experience. Jane must have sensed your nerves as she pulled at your right wrist, grasped at your thumb, and guided your hand to the front of her underwear.

She even went so far as to guide you verbally in exactly what she wanted - you followed every direction as your heart pounded wildly. “Put your hand in my panties baby… Yes, okay… Can you feel how wet I am for you? Do you feel how wet you made me? I’m always drenched after you kiss me… Slip your fingers a little further in… Oh, god, yes. A little higher... Mhmm… Yes. Rub right there. Oh, sweeting… Rub my clit, baby.”

With her arms thrown around your neck and her face buried in the crook of your neck, Jane’s hips began bucking against your hand in her underwear. Her moans and demands became distorted as she became lost in the sensation. “Play with- Oh, darling. Yes. Yes, you are doing so good. Now… Try… Try going a little lower… I want you to- Oh, dear. I want you to put those fingers inside me…”

Jane raised her hips off your lap, giving you greater access in positioning your fingers into Jane’s dripping hole. As the first digit slipped in, Jane dropped her head to your shoulder, overjoyed with how much she loved having you touch her 

This wasn’t the exact sensation Jane was looking for from you… She needed more.

“Another… Please, darling. Add another finger.” 

Your forehead had come to rest on Jane’s sternum, your face narrowed as you focused on Jane’s moans, directions, and nonverbal cues. You wedged another finger into Jane’s cunt, earning a guttural groan from the ravenette. 

Jane began rocking against your hand, effectively fucking herself and growing more desperate at the same time. “Oh sweeting.. You… Oh my god. darling. Yes, keep going.”

You became lost in it all. It was unlike something you had ever experienced to be so wanted and yearned for. You adored the feeling of Jane’s wetness around your fingers - so much so that you allowed your thumb to wander through Jane’s slick just to play with her clit again. “You are so wet. You- You are so beautiful… I love you. I love you…” 

The ravenette’s hands found your cheeks and pulled you into another kiss, only this one was filled with mingling moans and breathy cries. The intensity of your love was almost too much for Jane to handle.

Jane was so disappointed with how she couldn’t hold out any longer. The mingling of the two sensations was beyond what the ravenette’s brain could handle. “I’m sorry- I can’t. Oh, darling- I’m gonna-” In a sudden wave of climax, Jane’s hand gripped the back of your neck and she slammed her hips down on your hand, hoping it would prevent you from teasing and overwhelming her any further. 

“Janey…” You mumbled at the suddenness and violent nature of Jane’s orgasm. 

Jane’s breathing was heavy, but after a few minutes, she caught it and was able to finally form a coherent thought. “Can I touch you? Can I do the same to you?”

“I- Uh, yes. Please.” You weren't looking to admit your inexperience quite yet, especially when Jane’s orgasm came so naturally. The throbbing between your legs told you that you needed to feel Jane’s delicate fingers against your clit. 

“Lay back for me…”

You did as you were told and laid back on the bed, chewing at the inside of your lip as you did so. 

With a slight giggle, Jane wobbled to her feet, standing on the bed to remove her underwear and skirts. Her words were absentminded and genuine as she settled on the bed between your legs, “I’ve never been so in love with someone before… You make me so happy…” The ravenette’s fingers began gathering your skirts, pushing them higher and higher until she needed your help, “Come, darling. Lift those hips for me…”

There was a slight hesitation from you which only made Jane sit back on her knees and cock her head. “You are so very beautiful… I would love to touch you, but if that will make you uncomfortable, there is no pressure to do so… Do you want me to touch you?”

You nodded quickly, “God, yes…”

Curling her fingers around the fabric of your skirts once more, Jane gave a push. Her words seeking to rile you up as she bunched the fabric around your waist. “Have I made you wet? God, I can’t wait to feel you against my fingers. What if I tasted you with my tongue? Would you like that?”

“Fuck…”

When the rare curse left your mouth, Jane proceeded with confidence. She settled her body between your thighs. Jane gently rubbed her hands over your thighs and spoke softly, needing your say-so before she proceeded any further. “Are you ready?”

“Mhm…” You groaned, hips pressing down into the mattress in anticipation. When Jane didn’t touch you right away, you offered a clearer form of consent, “Yes, touch me…”

While Jane knew she should have aired on the side of caution through light touching, she couldn’t help it when she lowered her tongue to your cunt. She used her fingers to spread your pussy open while her tongue probed deeper, sliding around your clit to draw a moan from you. 

You hadn’t expected to fall apart and sound as vulnerable as you did. Your whimpers and moans filled the hotel room as Jane seemed to know exactly how to lick and suck. Fists gripping the sheets above your head, you attempted to dispel the strange feeling of the coil tightening in your center. 

Jane’s upper arm strength was no match for your bucking hips. Each time Jane tried to keep you down on the bed, you bucked her hips into Jane’s mouth anyway, feeling an insatiable need for more. 

Worked up from Jane’s orgasm and now Jane’s sweet tongue, you knew you wouldn’t be able to last much longer. Jane ended up driving you over the edge by a final suck at your clit. The ravenette was sure she was in heaven when she felt your thighs clamp down around her head and a flood of wetness over her chin. 

Jane gave your cunt a final long lick and pulled away to crawl back up your body with a dazed smile. You were quick to capture Jane in your arms and roll them over so you were laying half on top of the elegant ravenette. Not only had you experienced sexual pleasure from another for the first time, but you knew you were wholly loved by Jane as well. 

“Mmm, you are so wonderful… You did a marvelous job…” Jane hummed as she raked her fingers through your long hair and began pressing kiss after kiss to your forehead. “When I think about how much I love you, it makes me feel out of breath… or maybe it’s you laying on me.” 

“Mmmsorry…” You mumbled sleepily, shifting slightly off Jane, but still remaining on her enough to smother her with love. 

“And some say you are such an innocent little thing. Only if they knew what I did…” 

You only chuckled in response. From anyone else, you wouldn’t appreciate the description, but the way Jane said it gave you a deep satisfaction. 

——

Jane listened to the soft lull of the piano that ascended through the windows of the hotel lobby and up to where she curled up on a little chair on the balcony. She had never remembered this song being so lovely. There were no words to this tune, only the soff rise and fall of notes that made Jane feel like she was falling in love all over again.

The ravenette had snuck away from your bed to listen to the music. You had spent an afternoon in bed, exploring one another’s bodies and sharing all the moments over the years that filled you both with love for the other. 

Jane’s body was covered in a blanket, her face turned into its fabric as it smelled faintly of you. The ravenette was almost in disbelief that this relationship could be this fulfilling for her. 

The sound of the balcony door opening drew Jane from her daydreams of her future with you. 

“Enjoying the music, darling?” You hummed as you lowered your lips to Jane’s neck. 

“Mmmhmm, but I was just thinking about how much I missed you.” Jane smirked, her hands reaching up for you in hopes you would come snuggle with her. “Care to join me, sweeting?”

“Happy to…” You smiled sweetly as you circled Jane’s chair and placed yourself in her lap, her arms drawing you against her chest. Together you could enjoy the music and beautiful views wrapped in one another’s warm embrace.

Taglist: @charymobile, @bri-sonat, @smutuniversesblog, @opheliauniverse, @renravens, @whenyouhaveanobsession, @scream-queenlover, @mcufanisme, @peanutbutterprincess , @myzzjolanda, @principal-weems09, @imlike-so-gaydude, @xuukoo, @brienneswife, @dumbasslesbi, @giogwensversion, @milciak, @gela123, @thevillagegay, @katiemcgrathsbitch1, @naomi-m3ndez, @mysaviorfalsegod, @salems-spaghettios, @imgayforwoman69, @bychrissi, @h-doodles, @alexusonfire, @weemssapphic

[throneofsapphics]

Can we please have a part two to some questions are better left alone? I’m obsessed!!!

some questions are better left alone, part 2

Rowaelin x f!Reader

(part one) (part three)

Summary: They want you here, I repeated to myself. If I said it enough, I might start believing it. Or the words would lose their meaning. 

Word Count: ~2.8k 

Warnings: drinking, angst, y/n is a bit impulsive  

A/N: I’m glad you liked it, here it is! This is a bit shorter than the first one! I’m thinking about doing a part three 

I thought about it for days. Whether I should stay - or go back home for some time to sort my thoughts out. I promised we would speak about it, but I never gave an exact time or date. 

Here, their presence was intoxicating and everywhere. I was drawn to them, and everything in me wanted to please them, to do what I had to to stay close to my mates. Maybe that was part of the problem, I couldn’t have a clear head here. And speaking to my family and friends back home about it … 

The journey wasn’t incredibly long - maybe one week, but with how busy everything had been I’ve only seen them a few times in the last couple of years. Every time the conversation about visiting home popped up, there seemed to be another event going on. I have been brushing it off as a coincidence. 

-

She looked right at us, her body stiff and her throat swallowing. “I need to visit home for a bit.” 

It felt like all of the air left her lungs. She said they would talk about it, would have a conversation, why would she need to leave? 

“Why?” Rowan asked bluntly. 

“I can’t …” She covered her face with her hands, dragging them down before exhaling slowly. “I can’t think here. I need space.” 

“We can give you space here,” Aelin said hesitantly. “You have your own space.” 

“That’s not the same.” She could see the pain in her eyes - the indecision, the doubt. 

Do you think she’ll come back? If we let her go. Rowan asked her, glancing her way. 

-

“As long as you swear you’ll come back.” Aelin’s eyes bore into me, like a brand. It sounded vaguely like a threat. Promises are some of the only things immortals deal in anymore - promises and bargains. 

There was a momentary, too-obvious, pause. “I swear it.” I promised. Not a date, or a time. 

-

She’s keeping everything vague. Rowan’s voice sounded in her mind, before he asked her, “When will you come back?” 

A fair, reasonable question but the hesitation in y/n’s eyes worried Aelin.

“I don’t know yet,” her fingers tapped against the wooden table. “I won’t be long, but I haven’t seen my family in a while.” A tang of guilt ripped through Aelin. Y/n had barely been away from them since she first moved here. Her family didn’t live that far away, y/n could reach them rather quickly. She got the keen sense that if they offered to go with her, it would be shot down - shot down quick enough it might sting, so she didn’t bother asking. 

“A month.” Y/n finally said, before her or Rowan could speak. “I’ll be back in a month.” 

About one week of travel each way, two weeks with her family. It was all reasonable. So reasonable Aelin couldn’t find a way to shoot it down, not without seeming unhinged herself. 

-

“You know why mates are put together, right?” My cousin glanced at me. I’d told her about my doubts and fears - about everything. She’s the only one I trusted to keep her mouth shut. As far as the rest of my family was concerned, it was a surprise visit home. I played it off well, but my cousin knew me better than the rest. As two only children, we were raised like siblings. 

“Because they’re equals.” I answered automatically, “or to make the most powerful babies.” 

She snorted. “I hope you don’t get pregnant anytime soon.” 

“I’m not planning on it,” I laughed. The thought of a pregnancy made me shiver. Something I was certainly not ready for. 

“But,” My cousin turned to look at me, grabbing my hand gently, “we were also taught that doesn’t mean mates are always a perfect fit.” 

I dropped her hand. I can’t imagine life without them. Not now, not now that I’d been with them so long. But … they had lived a life without me, and could probably picture it perfectly well. “Do you think they would be better off on their own?” 

“I don’t know them,” she raised a brow, “and that’s not a question you should be asking me.” 

The rest of the visit went well, and I did feel a freshness - but also an emptiness at the same time, like a key part of me was missing. I found myself both dreading and anticipating leaving. Dreading the conversation we’d be having on my return, but eager to be back with them, to have that part of my soul fulfilled. 

-

Aelin and Rowan were on edge the entire time she was gone. 

Rowan managed to sit in one place, even feign concentrating on a report, but Aelin wore a path back and forth across the room. 

“She’ll be back tomorrow.” He finally said, putting down the papers he’d been staring at, not really reading or comprehending any of the contents. 

“What if she doesn’t come back?” 

“Has she ever broken a promise?” 

“No.” His fireheart sighed, walking towards him instead, before perching on his lap, her head against his shoulder. 

“She should already be on her way,” he murmured, running his hand up and down her spine. “And before you ask, I won’t go check.” 

Aelin let out something between a grumble and a growl - enough to tell him he was right. They needed to show her they trusted her, trusted that she would keep her word. 

-

I was surprised I didn’t see any white-tailed hawks following me back to the castle, or scouting out my path. I was keeping my eye out for any birds that might be in the area. None followed me home, or checked I was on my way back. The show of trust surprised me. At least they know I’ll keep my promises. 

-

We were all toying around the conversation, the one we all knew needed to happen. It was unlike us, really, to be so hesitant about things like this. It was me, of all people, who brought it. 

“One of the thoughts I had.” I swallowed, “I’ve been taught mates aren’t always a perfect fit. That they’re paired together for either whoever can make the most powerful children, or who are equals, and I know something doesn’t have to be perfect to make it work, but sometimes I wonder why you’d want me when you’re already a perfect fit and if you were happier without me.” I thought of Fenrys’s warning - of pretending those words never came out of my mouth. Gods, what if I’d made a big mistake … what if this would make them think, make them realize they really would be better off without me, if they were happier. 

I found the courage to look at both of them. They looked crestfallen. Aelin reached out and covered my hand with hers. “We want you. We’re happy with you. Now that you’re here, we never want to let you go.” An unusual softness was present in Rowan’s eyes as well and he reached out, covering my other hand. He didn’t say anything, but he didn’t need to. 

-

They talked, and talked, and talked. Thank the gods they didn’t have any meetings or plans today, otherwise they would have been very very late, and not in the best mood to deal with anyone else. 

“Do you,” Aelin swallowed harshly. “Do you want to go home, permanently?”

“I don’t want to leave you.” Not a direct answer, but good enough that her shoulders visibly relaxed. 

Rowan and Aelin were more before we realized we were mates. Enemies. Friends. Carranam. My Blood-Sworn. Lovers. Husband and wife. Mates. A progression, a timeline. Comparatively, y/n jumped right in at that last step, without the other experiences to form a solid rock or foundation. But, they could build those experiences over time. 

-

Rowan thought he’d be prepared for things like this, having been mated for a decade already, but it was so damn different. Aelin and y/n aren’t the same, and he can't treat them exactly the same. Where Aelin will tell him off, y/n doesn’t - she holds all of that in. He needs to work on being … nicer, and she needs to work on saying what she’s feeling, or thinking. 

“We won’t be mad at you for the things you’re thinking, or feeling. We can’t fix a problem if we don’t know it exists.” 

“Right.” She hesitated for a few moments, but kept speaking, “part of this is my fault, for putting words in your mouth.” 

“We haven’t been very considerate of you, and your feelings.” 

Awkward, but good. 

-

I dragged Fenrys back to my rooms again, the day after we talked. 

“I assume I’m summoned here because of a certain talk you had.” His eyes glinted with amusement. I groaned, but motioned to the chair in front of me. He sat, looking half amused and half worried. “Well, don’t keep me in suspense.” 

“It was fine,” I hesitated. 

His face grew taut. “Fine?” 

“They asked if I wanted to go home permanently.” 

“And what did you say?” 

“That I don’t want to leave.” 

A heavy silence filled the room. I gave them a half-answer. I don’t want to leave here.

“You’re thinking about it.” Fenrys didn’t pose it as a question. 

“I’m always thinking about …” I didn’t want to finish the sentence, didn’t want to put the words out into the open - into the air. 

“Don’t tell me.” He said quickly, before I could gather my thoughts enough to continue speaking. He might get the urge to tell Aelin, if I said anything that could cause her any kind of hurt - emotional included. He stood, rolling his shoulders back. “You need a night out,” his eyes danced in amusement. “Invite your friends. Especially the pretty one.” 

“That sounds perfect,” I managed to say in between laughs. 

“Write a better note this time,” he winked. “I’ll meet you at the gates in half an hour.” 

I scrambled for a pen and paper. 

Going out with Fenrys, I’ll try not to walk into any pillars this time. Don’t be too nosy. 

They’d likely find that funny. Gods I hope they will. 

-

Rowan picked up the note, ‘I'll try not to walk into any pillars,’ he sighed. Fenrys definitely pulled her into this, well aware he and Aelin would be in an important trade meeting the next morning. He handed it to Aelin, who snorted in amusement. 

“They’ll have a good time.” She turned to him with narrowed eyes. “And you won’t make a big fuss this time.” 

“I didn’t make a fuss.” He countered, arms crossed. His mate only raised an elegant eyebrow. Really? I think you started a fight. Rowan ignored the barb, stalking from the room to find something to do. There were always reports to read. Aelin snickered, right on his heels. 

-

The night out was exactly what I needed. Laughter, friends, alcohol. Fenrys and I made our way back, drunk off our asses. Failing to hide our laughter as we made our way down the halls. I didn’t walk into any pillars this time, didn’t beat anyone in a drinking contest, and avoided Effie’s homemade liquor. 

Fenrys was too drunk - or too lazy to make his way back to his rooms, and shifted right in the sitting room, curling up on a rug. I sniffed the air. Drunk dog. That’s a new scent. 

I bit back another laugh, changing before stumbling into my bed. 

-

Rowan woke a bit earlier than necessary, intending to check on y/n before the meeting. Aelin grumbled at him, but didn’t follow him out of bed this time. 

It took a lot of self control not to laugh at the wolf curled up in her sitting room, sleeping like the dead. Alcohol and dog - he rolled his eyes, headed for the door. 

He opened it quietly, just enough to peer into the room. Y/n was sound asleep, one arm hanging over the end of the bed, mouth open and drooling slightly onto her pillow. At least she doesn’t reek of alcohol this time. The dawn rays were beginning to stream in through the curtains, casting a gentle glow on her face. Without thinking too much of it, he fetched a tonic for headache, and a glass of water, setting it on the side table. He let himself brush a few strands of hair away from her face. She didn’t move, didn’t stir, the entire time. 

Rowan frowned. Anyone could sneak into her room and … he cut off that line of thinking, but made sure to double check the locks on the windows before leaving. 

-

Aelin rubbed her eyes, yawning as Rowan trailed back into the room. 

“All okay?” She drawled. It was cute that he woke up early to check on her. Fussy buzzard. 

“Yes,” he grunted. “There’s a drunk wolf sleeping on the floor of her sitting room.” 

She snorted at the idea. A wolf-sized pony in her sitting room. Fenrys was either too intoxicated or too lazy to make his way back to his own rooms. Maybe next time she’d get y/n to glamor her, just so she could go out with them. 

“Two of them is enough.” Rowan must’ve seen the look on her face. “I don’t need to worry about three of you stumbling through the streets. You’d empty all of the alcohol out of that tavern.” 

Aelin gave an innocent shrug, ignoring his sigh before rising to get ready for the day. She wasn’t excited for this meeting. 

-

I woke up to the faint scent of pine and snow, and some blessings on my bedside table. Rowan can be sweet from time to time, in his own way. I downed the tonic in one gulp. The night out may have been a temporary relief, but the seed of doubt started to drift back into me. 

They want you here, I repeated to myself. If I said it enough, I might start believing it. Or the words would lose their meaning. 

Pushing the door open, a great white lump of fur dozed on the floor, a few feet in front of me. 

I poked him in the ribs, before jumping back out of the way. His lips curled in a snarl, the canine body poised to strike, before he realized who I am, and huffed. Fenrys shifted back into Fae form. 

“Good morning,” I chirped, unnecessarily loud. He winced, sending me a vulgar gesture. I rummaged my cabinets, tossing a tonic over my shoulder. 

I heard a curse, then a swallow. “Thank you,” he muttered. I turned and grinned at him. 

“Aren’t you supposed to be doing courtly things?” 

“Nope,” he snorted. “Their Majesties get to handle this one.”

I hummed. He hung around for tea, before leaving to do … whatever else Fenrys does. 

-

“Are you still having doubts?” Aelin brought up randomly, over dinner a few weeks later. It was just the two of us, Rowan out late training some new guards. Poor souls. 

I blinked in surprise. “Are you?”

“No.” She said a bit too quickly. My heart dropped into my stomach. 

“I’m not.” I said slowly, the words feeling like a half-lie on my tongue. Nothing had been unusual the last few weeks. If anything, things had been better. I forced a smile onto my face, and changed the topic - asking about their upcoming meeting with some delegates from Melisande. I listened to her complaints about the various ‘assholes,’ she’d have to deal with, but my mind swirled on how quickly she answered. 

I had Effie post a discreet letter for me the next day.

-

Aelin wondered if she sent the wrong message with her answer. She didn't have doubts, not about their relationship. No, doubts if y/n was feeling more secure here. The female did seem a bit distant the rest of the night. She decided not to think about it too much, to push it to the back of her mind and bring it up with Rowan later. 

-

The next week, an urgent letter came for me. I opened it with Rowan and Aelin, taking careful notice of the seal - my family’s seal. My eyes widened as I read it. A summons. The letter I posted arrived quickly. 

I handed it to Rowan and Aelin silently, settling my face into a lost and confused mask. I'm completely aware they're watching my every move, my every reaction.

“Do you want company?” Aelin asked gently. 

I swallowed harshly, “I should probably handle this alone.” 

[polufabrikat-na-vilke]

Thoughts about Diavolo and Doppio

Introducion

All that ton of text exists because I didn't believe it was DID since my first time watching and reading Golden Wind. Literally from the first time seeing their actions and interactions, I thought it looked more like some sort of supernatural thing than that condition, to which I only found more confirmation as I watched. I still want to call the following examples thin, since there is a very high probability that Araki was simply going way too wild with all this mystical mysterious secrecy of the antagonist, and everything that I will give may turn out to be just the fattest wicked technique for exaggerating this, but I want to express my thoughts nonetheless. Plus, I think it might be a narrative trick after all, so I may turn out to be right in the end of the day.

Point

So, let's get it straight: the theory is that there's no DID in that story, Diavolo is not an alter-ego, but something else and probably not a human at all. And now to the specifics.

Let's start from afar: his (to make it easier to read, I'm talking about Diavolo in a generally accepted way) mother, in her words, became pregnant from an unknown man who died 2 years before his birth, and, moreover, she has been sitting in isolation from the outside world for 2 years, in a specifically women's prison without any men at all. AND, MOREOVER, the anime adaptation shows that the fetus develops in just a few hours (I’ll say a few more words about the validity of David's version later). Well, it’s impossible, well, it’s a huge nonsense, even if we consider from a seemingly scientific point of view of this universe, with which Araki tried to explain, for example, the change in physical parameters when switching egos. Here's mystical supernatural shit number 1.

Further. This particular point is relevant only for anime adaptation. Unfortunately, I haven’t found any data on how much Araki took part in its creation, I confess, but I have the right to assume that if it was approved by him and released the way we see it, it is quite a canon by which we can argue. It came out after the manga and this is quite possibly a more correct representation of events from the point of view of canon details. In the same scene, after birth, the baby's eye color momentarily changes from hazel to red, then back. This move, I want to note, is often used to show a character’s possession, usually with supernatural forces or the like. Yes, it is also used to refer to a "second personality" or some hidden nature of a character, but newborns do not have DID, it is a disorder that develops after severe repeating trauma. Mystical supernatural shit number 2.

We smoothly move on to the extreme turbidity and ambiguity of DID, and I’m not even going to talk about body changes when switching. So, DID develops, as, by the way, even in the original source is noted, as a result of a deep shock or trauma. A person dissociates from the traumatic experience, which, if severe and repetative to the point when their mind can't really survive it, results in violation of an identity integrity. It does not develop immediately and is noticeable to others, while commonly not being noticable to a person expiriensing it. And what do we see on this topic there? Nothing, only Doppio shows symptoms of dissociation, and only in situations where something threatens to expose the boss’s identity (or in other situations related to him, that’s the only way), which is strange, because I can’t even imagine such a trauma can be (i.e., it becomes a chicken-and-egg paradox: the trauma, in theory, should be related to the boss, to alter, but without the trauma there should be no boss, no alter). Other trauma is either not shown, which is a serious omission from the script, because this is no longer a mystery, but a hole, or it simply does not exist, because in the village, as far as can be seen, the attitude towards him was near normal, and his foster father is caring and loving, and has a trusting relationship with him (judging by the phrase casually thrown by the drivers from a flashback with his youth, where they warn him not to complain about an accident on the road to the priest, which seems to refer to the fact that this has already happened at least once before, and as if he would hardly have gone to him to complain if he did not trust him). Mystical supernatural shit number 3.

The same muddy and unclear story with his mother under the floor. Why is she there? For what is she there? How did she survive there? But who would know. In my opinion, it looks like some kind of some ritual-related bullshit, or at least a sacrifice to something, but I don’t undertake to make any special statements or comments here, I’m just noting and thinking. Mystical supernatural shit number 4.

Let's get to non-flashback events. POSSIBLY Diavolo is able to influence Doppio's consciousness (which does not happen in the opposite direction). This is indicated by the latter’s holy faith in the fact that he is talking to his boss on real work phones, well, that’s how he sees them, as well as the clouding and memory lapses that suddenly occur after the end of the call, which is strange, but still convenient for Diavolo, what a goddamn lucky coincidence, huh? I don't think alters are able to perform such tricks. Mystical supernatural shit number 5.

In the SCR arc, characters mutually switch bodies with closest persons. What's going on with Diavolo in that situation? He, like a self-respecting individual soul newly revealed to the audience (!), not like everyone else, not like a sucker, "attached" to someone else’s soul (it was kind of similar with Doppio before), and for time secretly sit happily in one body for two. And now, this is no longer a person suffering from DID (that is, a soul with, in our case, an ego split in two (that's PSYCHE thing)), but a whole separate being, moreover, also capable of ruling his soul as he pleases. Mystical supernatural shit number 6.

We will need some of the things from the previous point now. At the end of the arc of Ciocolatta and Secco, Diavolo not only immediately knows from somewhere that Bruno can only see souls, but he also, in order to make Doppio look like Trish for him, lends him a fucking piece of his (let me remind you, separate, like we have already found out) soul. A piece of his soul, God damn it! He (again) not only knows some unreal information about souls, he, as already said, is able to manipulate at least his own. Mystical supernatural shit number 7.

His eyes (iris and pupil), already extremely unique in themselves, are the eyes of his entity, but not his body. When he takes control of someone's body it is visible, when Bruno is in his body it is visible. Worth a mention. Mystical supernatural asshole number 8.

The last, probably the most interesting mystical, but not so supernatural screw-up lies in a small detail: when the souls of the characters in the final battle return back to their bodies, we are shown all of them, except for Diavolo's (well, more precisely they showed King Crimson as it, but this doesn't count (otherwise Diavolo is KC, lol)). Coincidence? I don't think so. More likely it was done on purpose, and this is not even attributed to the supposedly yet another creation of an aura of mysticism around his personality - at this point we seem to already know very well what he looks like... Or we don't, actually?

Conclusion

That's all, actually. The bottom line is the same: Diavolo is something supernatural, I don’t presume to say what he is exactly. This is probably all the fairly significant evidence (meaning those that are less than half conjecture) that I had. There were a lot of strange things in JoJo, inspired by some things from the real world, and then blown up to the point of "incredibility," but here they tried to tie it into some kind of pseudoscientific nonsense that I didn’t believe in. In any case, this is not the first "spirit" in this universe (it’s worth remembering Anubis), so this theory, I think, is more than valid.

So thank you for reading, it's open for discussion, since we'll never know the truth for sure (DID was the assumption of the characters of Vento Aureo, and they called it "assumption" themselves (I want to believe with all my soul Araki fooled everyone, being an unreliable narrator so Diavolo will be even more of an enigma)).

[whamgram]

I’ve binge read under my skin and the plot is absolutely amazing! I loved the chapters with faux charming Vox and jealous Alastor. it was fun watching the whole vox situation unfold because it made Alastor dive deeper into his feelings. That being said, I’m gonna be completely honest Vox wasn’t exactly what I would consider serious competition for Alastor. Let me clarify that in no way does the story need a love triangle. The situation with Vox was great because it brought something between Charlie and Alastor and they overcame the obstacle and have breached a new footing in their friendship/situationship. But at the same time, it wasn’t really a test because Charlie somewhat had her guard up with Vox so he was somewhat more of a minor misstep in their journey towards coming together. It got me wondering on what or rather who would be a major obstacle for these two and immediately my mind went to Vaggie because is there really any one in hell that could give Charlie a better option for a relationship that wouldn’t use her as a way to get under Alastor’s skin or even Lucifer’s? Not to mention that she has to be on her guard otherwise someone could try to use her for her status as the princess of hell. But you already tied up Vaggie’s relationship with Charlie and quite nicely I might add. (having her fall for Emily was believable and understandable because Emily has a similar mindset to Charlie.) That didn’t stop me from thinking about heaven. They’ve been awfully quiet in the story so far, especially considering the events of season one where Charlie led an assault on the exorcists and the whole situation with a sinner that killed Adam. Sure it’s proved that sinners can be redeemed but at the same time it’s proved that Charlie poses a threat. She challenged and changed the order of things. Something from what we know both her parents tried to do. I can’t imagine that heaven or rather all of heaven is going to take the fact that Lucifer‘s daughter is doing what he failed to do which is challenge the world order. And we’ve seen in season one that heaven is perfectly capable of scheming when they kept the extermination under wraps from all of heaven, with only the select few knowing. I can see heaven sending someone down to keep an eye on the princess. Interestingly enough angels are secretive and I would love to see some more of jealous Alastor squirming because Vox while a nuisance was an opponent he knew well, and he knew how to warn Charlie to be cautious. I guess I’m wondering how he would do against someone who he doesn’t know. And Charlie is enamored with heaven, probably because she’s half angel. I’m wondering how she would handle be charmed by an angel who isn’t what they seem, and the reality not all angels have pure intentions

Thanks so much! ❤️ You nailed it regarding the Vox arc. It was never intended as a legitimate love triangle. Alastor and Vox certainly saw it that way, but Charlie didn’t. She had zero romantic interest in Vox. He did charm her a bit in a similar way that Alastor does, but she quickly clocked this as an imitation. Like she said a few chapters back, she knew he was sleazy and was hoping he’d prove to her otherwise.

It’s exactly like you said, Vox was just an obstacle for them to overcome together. As a result, their relationship grew stronger and they both obtained a better understanding of their feelings for each other. And the irony of Vox unintentionally bringing them closer together? That’s my favorite part. 😆 He’d be so pissed if he found that out.

Heaven has been very quiet, haven’t they? 👀 Guess they’re busy sorting through all the paperwork they’ve been asking Charlie to complete. Their suspicious silence will be addressed soon.

I love your idea about them facing a “wolf in sheep’s clothing” threat from heaven. I obviously don’t want to spoil any upcoming story arcs, but I will say that I’ve had some similar trains of thought. Vox won’t be the only threat to their relationship. 😈

Thanks for your thoughtful message! I greatly enjoy the speculation.

[dilemmaontwolegs]

Running from the Flames {23}

Pairing: Pierre Gasly x OFC Warnings: 18+ only, information dump and time jump - this is a work of fiction and the events are not based on reality. Previous Chapter - Next Chapter

The final qualifier of the season had come to an end in Abu Dhabi. 

With only one race to go for 2023 the championship points were so close between the fourth and ninth positions that Pierre could finish anywhere among them. His third row starting position on the grid had put him in a good spot to get some last minute points and move up, but we would have to wait and see what tomorrow would bring.

The last six months had been a whirlwind and our passports were full of stamps from travelling wherever Pierre’s races took us. Whenever there were a few weeks between races we would either head to the family home we had purchased in Rouen or visit my parents in Manchester. 

We still kept the house in London but it was rarely used, in fact, Charles had stayed in it more nights than we had since moving to France.

Addie loved our home in Rouen and it was only a few minutes drive down the road to Pierre’s parents. Moving there had been one of the best decisions, giving me a fresh start and even more family for Addie who had instantly been adopted into Pierre’s family. She loved having cousins her age to play with whenever we visited and no one would have guessed they weren’t related by blood with the bond they shared. 

“Daddy!” Addie squealed as she saw Pierre’s car pull up into the box. 

“Patience,” I reminded her as she tugged on my hand and tried to pull me across the garage towards him. “They need to put the car away first.”

She shifted on her feet impatiently as it was wheeled inside but the moment she saw his steering console placed on the hood she tore her hand free and darted through the pitcrew. She was pretty much a part of the car’s cool down routine now and the crew all knew to watch out for her as they removed the wheels and she jumped up and down at the front wing waiting for Pierre. 

Her arms were already reaching for him before his feet touched the ground and she didn’t care that he was hot and sweaty in his race suit, she still flung her arms around his neck. “Did you go fast, daddy?”

“Very fast, ma fille.” He put her down when he reached me and unzipped the race suit with a relieved breath as cool air rushed in before giving me a quick kiss. “Have you seen my parents yet?”

“No but mum texted me an hour ago when they touched down so they can’t be too far away.” I shook my head and looked at my watch. “I could do with them hurrying up since Granny has my dress and your suit. At this rate we will have nothing to wear.”

“She’d probably prefer that, for me,” Pierre joked and I wrinkled my nose in distaste. 

“You can’t even joke about that because it’s true.”

Since it was the end of the season all of our family was coming to the race in support of Pierre but before all that could take place we would be going to the driver’s dinner. It was an event that brought all the drivers and principles together to mingle with the rich and potential sponsors to ensure more cash flow for the following year. 

Essentially, the guys were artwork put on display. And since it would be in the presence of the uber rich, I wasn’t going to be arriving in an off-the-rack dress. Unless Granny was running fashionably late.

“You should go shower,” I said as I nudged Pierre towards the hallway. “I need to quickly finish this report without you distracting me.”

“I haven’t even done anything,” he objected. 

My eyes trailed over his body from head to toe then slowly back up his body. The skin tight fireproof shirt showed every dip and crevice of his toned muscles and I bit my lip. “You don’t have to, I just look at you and forget what I was doing. It’s very inconvenient.”

His smirk grew and he stretched his arms high, looking just like a normal driver doing some warm down exercises but he knew what he was doing as it pulled his shirt up and bared his abs. The peek of golden hairs trailing down his navel caught my attention and I had to tear my eyes away from where they led before slapping his arm lightly.

“I could penalise you for that, Gasly.” I flicked my FIA badge pinned to my chest. “Coercion of an official is a serious offence.”

“Coercion?”

“Mhmm.” I stepped closer and rose on my tiptoes. “You threaten my sanity when you do that. You know it drives me wild.”

He grinned wickedly at my confession and winked. “As an official, you really should have a little more self control, madame.” He ruffled Addie’s hair and waved as he went to his changing room, whistling a cocky tune as he did and I narrowed my eyes at his back as he retreated. 

“Is daddy in trouble?”

“No, mija, quite the opposite,” I replied as I turned my attention to Addie. “Want to finish your picture?”

We went back to the table we had commandeered and Addie returned to colouring in the car I had drawn for her while I opened my laptop. 

When I had imagined working in Formula One I thought it would be in one of the teams but half way through the season FIA announced there would be new regulations for the cars in 2024. To ensure the cars met the regulations the FIA needed more mechanical engineers familiar with the technology and I decided to apply. 

There were half a dozen of us in my team so it wasn’t a problem that I couldn’t work with Alpine since it would be a conflict of interest. I rarely worked with Ferrari too, for the same reason, since Charles had become Addie’s godfather at her christening over the summer break.

I still had ambitions of getting a more hands-on role but for now I kept myself busy and it was flexible for childcare and fit into Pierre’s schedule, plus we still got to go home together each night to whatever hotel we found ourselves in. My life was balanced and complete. 

I would almost say it was perfect but there was one bump in the road that was currently being fixed, if mum’s vague messages were correct. I would have to ask her about them when she arrived. 

I finished my report on McLaren’s plans for their new suspension and sent it through to the head engineer before closing my laptop lid and sliding it into my bag. Water droplets trickled down my neck and I gasped at the cold sensation before looking up to see Pierre’s cheeky smile beneath his damp hair. 

“You look hot, I thought you might want to cool off.”

I smiled back sweetly. “I’ll remember how considerate you are when my feet are cold.”

My phone vibrated on the table and Pierre grinned as he saw the text from my mum saying they were right outside. He scooped Addie up from her chair and took my hand, his energy infectious as he rushed to get out of the garage.

Granny’s plane must have been full since there were both mine and Pierre’s parents, his four brothers, their wives and children, plus Matthew. The moment Addie saw her cousins she squirmed to get down and ran the rest of the way, barrelling into them with a fit of giggles. 

After a quick round of hugs I finally made it to mum and she pulled me aside so we could talk somewhere quieter. My heart thrashed in my chest as she reached into her handbag and produced a brown envelope made from that godforsaken recycled paper and sustainable sources.

“This is the last brown envelope I ever want to see,” I muttered as I ran my fingernail along the seal, breaking it open with a deep breath. The papers slipped out with little resistance and my hands shook as I saw the signatures on the bottom. “So this is it?”

“That’s it,” mum confirmed with a grin.

I shoved the papers back in the envelope and buried it under the FIA forms in my bag. “I have one more favour to ask.”

“No you don’t, mija.” She pulled another document from her bag and placed it in my hands before patting my cheek. “I’ve been waiting for this day.”

Granny had outdone herself with the masterpiece I wore. It was tailored to my every curve and the design could not have been more perfect. 

Social media was no longer my enemy and with Pierre’s support I had used the platforms to share my story and raise awareness around domestic violence as well as fundraise for charities such as Women’s Refuge. While there would always be those who felt the need to leave nasty comments, the good far outweighed the bad and I no longer dwelled on the bad.

The dress Granny made was a celebration of how far I had come and a statement piece for the fact it was White Ribbon Day, the International Day for the Eradication of Violence against Women. If wearing it encouraged even one person to engage in a conversation then it was worth it, because to say I was uncomfortable wearing it was an understatement. 

“Wow,” Pierre gushed as I stepped out of the bedroom and Granny watched on proudly from the doorway. “You look absolutely stunning. Tu es la plus belle femme que j'aie jamais rencontrée.” (French: You are the most beautiful woman I have ever met.)

I blushed at the compliment and looked down at the sleek black dress again. The slit in the skirt reached all the way to my hip and was deliberately on the left side to contrast the scars that ran down my thigh. Pierre loved me, imperfections and all, and he was proud that I didn’t try to hide them anymore.

“I think you knocked the English out of him, honey,” Granny commented as Pierre continued to murmur affirmations in the language she did not understand.

“It happens now and again, when he’s frazzled.”

“I’m not frazzled,” Pierre corrected. “English just doesn’t do justice to how beautiful you look.”

He reached for the neckline, running his fingers along the white silk crossed neck halter to where they joined over my heart and then curved under my bust. Against the midnight black fabric it was impossible to miss the symbol of the white ribbon. It matched the small white ribbon pinned to Pierre’s breast pocket and when his suit jacket was unbuttoned it revealed the silk lining was a repeating pattern of the white ribbon on black.

“Do we have to go?” I asked as I flattened his lapels and ran my palms over his broad chest. “Addie’s with your parents and we could have the whole place to ourselves.”

Granny cleared her throat. “Stop your romantic whispering and get moving. I didn’t come out of retirement so my work of art can end up crumpled on your bedroom floor.”

I rolled my eyes but couldn’t stop the amused smile from growing on my face before I swiped the matching clutch from the coffee table and made my way to the door. “Let’s go, handsome.”

“I’m coming,” Pierre said after a moment. “Just admiring the view.”

“You’re welcome,” Granny chuffed before grabbing her own clutch. “Now, where’s that husband of mine? I need my arm-candy before I step out on the red carpet.”

Click here for chapter twenty four.

Tagging: @alwaysclassyeagle @my-only-way-tocooperatewithlife @prrttysposts

[rotworld]

18: Out Of Time

(previous)

anchorware malfunctions can disrupt reality in extreme, unpredictable ways. the worst case you've ever seen is aliquando island.

->sexually explicit. contains body horror, parasites, casual nudity, non-human genitalia, terato.

.

.

.

You get a few concerned looks at the rest stop. Jamie helps you limp into a bathroom and cleans you up the best they can. Your clothes are ruined so you borrow a soft gray sweater from their collection, and Jamie struggles to hide a smug smile at the sight of you wearing their clothes. The wound on your thigh is in better shape than it has any right to be. 

“A miracle for my angel,” the God of Nelton whispers. Jamie thinks it must be keeping the wound clean somehow, but it’s disinclined to share its secrets. 

“We’re keeping it, aren’t we?” Jamie sighs. You share a few eggs at a picnic table, enjoying a moment of peace and quiet. The air is damp and cool, the fog clammy on your skin. 

“No. Eventually it should go back home,” you say, touching the secondary heartbeat in your chest. It writhes happily under your skin, trying to reach your fingers. 

“And you will come with me,” it purrs. “My angel, in Heaven where you belong.”

Jamie shrugs, snatching an egg out of your hand. “As long as I’m still your favorite.” They lick their lips. One of the fluke’s needle-like limbs pierces the shell, undulating as it slurps the liquid insides. They wink when they catch you staring. “I’m driving, by the way. You can stretch out in the back, if you want, keep that leg relaxed.”

“Jamie, it’s not even that bad,” you protest. “Driving’s not the same as walking, I can do it just fine.”

Jamie giggles and pats your cheek. “You’re cute when you think I’m not in charge.”

[NOW PLAYING ON THE RADIO: IT’S HAPPENING AGAIN BY AGNES OBEL]

The idea of someone else driving your car used to be unthinkable. But you had the same feeling about passengers, too, not so long ago. They grouse about you insisting on the passenger seat but ultimately relent, giving you a nipping kiss for being so stubborn. You’re startled by the sharpness not coming from their teeth but the skitter of insectoid limbs against your mouth. The fluke quivers and Jamie lets out a shaky moan. You’ll remember that for later.

You’re unlucky again today. There’s nothing out west. But several hours of open, uneventful roads are a welcome change after the last few days. You talk about less pressing matters; hobbies, memories, getting to know each other in the easy, casual way you haven’t had time for yet. Jamie’s fluke actively participates but you’re not always sure when. Sometimes the distinction is obvious—coldly professional phrasing, a harsh bluntness Jamie usually avoids—but sometimes it’s more muddled. Jamie is more confident when talking about Drift biology and the University, more openly flirtatious when you give them a reaction. It’s less like two people fighting over a turn to speak and more like one person with two voices that sometimes overlap.

“Do you remember when I mentioned that Higgs’ flukes are sensitive to superposition events?” they ask. “I don’t think I ever told you why. They become much more active when they sense a shift coming. That’s also the only time they copulate and lay eggs. It’s a very rapid process.” 

The road gains a wiggling curve. You see a rocky slope on one side, a guardrail on the other, nothing but fog visible beyond it. There’s a salty smell you can’t identify.

“They lay eggs so close to a shift?” you say. “Isn’t that dangerous? Most animals do the opposite, I thought.”

“Most organisms seem to have that aversion, yes. But not Higgs’ fluke. Superposition events are part of their reproductive strategy. Laying their eggs right before or during one causes most of the eggs to get swept up with the shift. Essentially, they reproduce across planes.” They smile—sadly, slightly lopsided. “Perhaps that’s why this happened in the first place. How could I not feel some kinship, both of us born so far from ‘home?’” 

They both do that, you notice, referring to ‘home’ with a sense of disbelief and bitter amusement. “Do you think that’s how it works for us, too?” you ask. 

“It’s unlikely. A larger, less flexible organism shouldn’t be physically capable of making the journey, nor surviving the transition. Flukes have evolved for rapid adaptation to new circumstances; new planes, new physical laws. Even that we don’t do alone, we rely on our hosts for cues. But…” They frown. “I do wonder. If I could find enough of us who know their birthdays, would they all fall during shifts?” 

The road changes again, rocky hillside and guardrails vanishing. The fog grows so thick you can barely see beyond the windshield. Jamie slows cautiously. You both peer out the window for any sign of where you are or what might be ahead. The salt smell is stronger and soggy. You hear the hiss of water like a lake lapping its shores. “Any idea where we are?” Jamie asks. 

You’re certain you’ve never seen this stretch of road before. The asphalt, when you glimpse it through the fog, glistens with dampness. You see small, spiny stones scattered around. Shells, you realize. Like snails, but larger, and things you don’t recognize. Strangest of all, home feels close again. You should have left it far behind you but there’s that unmistakable tug at your heart again. Home, it says, is southwest and very, very near. That can’t be right. You’ve been heading west this whole time. You take out a blank sheet of paper to make a new map and get your bearings.

You freeze. The page isn’t blank. That’s your handwriting, your pen strokes disturbed by the bumps in the road, but you can’t remember starting a map. The only thing marked is Aliquando Island, a place you can vaguely remember hearing about but have never been to. No roads are depicted, only a small landmass surrounded by choppy waves. 

“We just hit an anchorware malfunction,” Jamie mutters. “It’s…weird. The road seems fine but something’s definitely wrong.”

You see the shadow of something flit just out of sight several times. A building, you think, but you can’t make out the details. An apartment complex? A tower? A church steeple? Sometimes it’s off the side of the road and sometimes it’s in the rearview mirror, even though you don’t think Jamie makes any turns. As the fog thins, the road goes from pavement to rough, bumpy gravel. There’s a house up ahead, a sprawling mansion that you struggle to understand at first glance. It’s asymmetrical. Some of the window frames seem to have been installed upside-down. You’re certain the whole thing has a slight lean as though part of the foundations are sinking, but only when you look at it from a certain angle. 

And there are people. A few faces peer down from the second floor and there’s someone standing in the doorway. Wooden easels are scattered across the lawn. Jamie is wary of pulling into the circle drive and stops some distance away. You spot something odd in the rearview mirror and twist around in your seat. “What is that?” you ask.

Jamie doesn’t need to turn around fully to see it. It’s there on the driver’s side, down a sandy slope. It’s on your right, too, at the end of a cement staircase where the grass ends and a golden beach begins. Blue. Nothing but blue. The fog has lifted but even the horizon is the same, shimmering blue like the biggest lake you’ve ever seen. It’s everywhere. It swallows the road you took to get here. “I think that’s an ocean,” Jamie says slowly. 

You’ve heard of oceans. Some people say part of the Drift was coastal highway. But you’ve never seen it, and neither has any courier you’ve ever met. It’s gone, most people say, cut off or cut apart by the strange motions of shifts, and yet here it is before your eyes. You can’t figure out how you got here. There is no road. Just dirt and gravel and a narrow gray path that slips beneath the waves. Your gaze is drawn southwest. Could you have gotten turned around in the fog somehow? Disoriented by the anchorware malfunction? 

The man at the door is wearing a brown suit jacket and navy blue slacks, his beard neatly trimmed and graying. He comes down the steps but not much further, seeming to sense your wariness. “You’re a bit early,” he says. “But I’m sure there’s a guest room waiting for you.”

“You were expecting us?” Jamie asks suspiciously. A few more people peek out of the open doorway, whispering to each other. They look excited. 

“Expecting? Well, it’s complicated. Everything here is complicated ever since our anchorware ruptured. Ah, but where are my manners?” The man smiles and makes a grand, sweeping gesture to the mansion and the impossible ocean just beyond the lawn. “I’m the Architect. Welcome to Aliquando Island.” 

The island, you discover, was once an artist’s community. Those living there are inclined to say it still is. The Architect tries to explain its history while taking you on a meandering tour through the labyrinth of twisting hallways and countless rooms, but he doesn’t seem certain which parts of the story come before or after others. Aliquando Island has only been this way—stranded in the Drift and yet almost completely cut off from it—since a catastrophic anchorware failure. But it has also always been this way. He was the first one here and he built the house, he says, but he also found it already standing here, already occupied.

Everyone is friendly and happy to see you. In one studio room, a circle of sculptors pause in shaping and smoothing surreal figures to wave excitedly. They’re eager for news; how big has Verlinda gotten? Did they ever finish that new botanical garden in Green Valley? Has Nelton recovered from the fire? This particular question makes the God of Nelton twitch in your chest. There’s never been a serious fire in Nelton, it tells you. 

The Architect leads you through a spacious kitchen with blue cupboards and black countertops. You’re offered both fresh and salted fish, stiff sheets of roasted seaweed and strange, briney eggs with striated, scallop-like shells. “I apologize for the lack of variety. We survive mostly on oceanic galls,” he says, holding up one of the eggs. “Not much will grow here and the isthmus to the mainland exists inconsistently. Truthfully, even if it was stable, we’re nervous about leaving.”

“You said your anchorware ruptured?” Jamie presses. They don’t seem nearly as anxious as when you first arrived, but they stick close to your side, watching carefully as you nibble on some seaweed. “I’m not familiar with that kind of malfunction. Was the unit damaged?” 

“Sabotaged, in fact. Unfortunate, but not unexpected. Anchor was never fond of us.” 

“Anchor?” you ask. 

The Architect nods. “We are—will be, perhaps? Pardon me, we were previously—right off the coast. They offered large sums of money to relocate us but we were firm in our refusals. And so, here we are, finally out of their way.” 

“Anchor doesn’t have a coast.” 

He grins. “Ah, but it does! Not that they want anyone to know that. They can’t wrangle the ocean the same way they do everything else. Seawater is quite hard on anchorware, did you know that?”

There are more studios on the second floor. A man is meticulously hand-sewing small, seashell beads along the bodice of a glittering green dress in one room. In another, several painters in watercolor-spattered aprons render the same stunning ocean view in different styles. Jamie tries to pry more details from the Architect about the anchorware rupture, but he has trouble relaying information in a linear fashion. 

“We’re just off the coast and they hate that. No way to the mainland but across the isthmus and through Anchor. They say we’re a security risk! As if we have the slightest interest in whatever nonsense they do there. No, I’d say it’s the folks in Anchor who are far too interested in us. Why, just the other day they sent an unpleasant young lad who poked and prodded all around, and he was unbelievably rude when we asked what he was doing. Some self-important type from the labs, no doubt…”

You’re shown to a spacious guest room with a seaside balcony. Jamie wanders over to the glass doors, wordlessly watching the tide roll in with tense shoulders and a clenched jaw. They see your worried reflection and turn around with a sigh. “We have to tell somebody. I’m just not sure who to tell,” they say, laughing weakly. “There’s an island just…floating around, adrift in space and time, because Anchor thought it was inconvenient.” 

You recline on the bed, wincing as you find a comfortable position for your leg. Jamie is at your side in a blink, checking your bandages. “Maybe the University?” you reason. “That’s the only authority they seemed to recognize in Anchor.” 

“Maybe,” Jamie says, sounding uncertain. “Maybe. It’s worth a try.”

You’re both startled by a knock at the door. You see several curious faces in the hall, peering around Jamie. “Sorry, we were just, um…” One of them, a young man, holds up a sketchbook. “Well, we were wondering if you might, um, be willing to pose for figure drawing? We’re—or, um, we were…we were going to be? We’re still learning, anyway.”

“We’re bothering them,” one of the women says, looking embarrassed. “I told you we should wait until after dinner!” 

Jamie laughs. “You’re not bothering us. Come on in, there’s plenty of room.” 

There are five of them, all about the age to be enrolled at the University. They’re buzzing with nervous energy, chattering while they set up their folding in a wide circle in the middle of the room. Aliquando Island’s strange properties quickly become apparent; several of them came here before the University was excised from Bevin, more than half a century ago, although they’re convinced they only arrived last week. 

You’re surprised at how easily Jamie handles all the attention. They’re relaxed and smiling, happy to answer questions but also giving a slightly stern reminder for the artists to stay on task and get their sketchbooks open. 

“Do you teach at the University?” you ask.

Jamie glances back at you with a grin. “Ah, is my ‘teacher voice’ slipping out? I do sometimes, mostly lower level classes for first years.” They pause to shrug off their sweater. You’re slightly taken aback when they start unbuttoning their shirt. “So? Do you think I make a hot professor?” they tease. The artists giggle. You feel your face heat up. 

You realize, as more of their skin is revealed, that you’ve never seen them undressed before. Jamie has a slim, lithe build, prominent collarbones and freckles on their shoulders. They stand in a relatively neutral pose, hip cocked, arms at their sides. There are symmetrical scars on their chest, thin lines beneath their pectorals. They catch your eye, looking self-conscious for the first time in a while.

“You’re gorgeous,” you say. You’re a little embarrassed when the artists giggle again, muttering something about interrupting the two of you, but it’s worth it. Jamie’s posture relaxes slightly, their smile returning with a hint of pride. Your gaze trails lower to dark, neatly-trimmed pubic hair and a puffy, pink clit. 

“You can, um…” The same nervous man speaks up, then loses his nerve. “You can…let it unwind a little bit, if you want? Only if you want.” 

Let it unwind…?” Jamie glances at him in surprise. 

“Your, uh…” He taps the side of his head. 

“You’re being so rude,” the woman from earlier hisses. “Don’t listen to him, you’re fine just like that.”

“I don’t mind,” Jamie assures them. “But…you can see it?” 

“Of course. We wouldn’t make very good artists otherwise.” 

You lean over, taking note of their sketches for the first time. They’ve all started drawing Jamie with incredible accuracy and attention to detail—and sure enough, the fluke is there, too, a phantom behind their eyes. A few sketches include what you assume are dendritic tendrils, vein-like protrusions drawn in light, barely-visible strokes. You never realized just how big it was, its snake-like body nestled against Jamie’s spinal column all the way to the tailbone. The bottom of its body is wound up in a tight spiral.

“It doesn’t really unwind all that much further,” Jamie says, laughing. They look over at you. One of the fluke’s appendages darts out of their mouth just briefly. “Unless…it has a reason to. I could demonstrate.” Your pulse hammers in your chest when Jamie strides quickly to the bed. You’re acutely aware that you’re being watched, the artists following without a word or question and surrounding the bed with their pencils in hand. Jamie tugs playfully at your borrowed sweatshirt. “We’ll keep it brief,” they say playfully. “My courier’s injured. But I think they can hold still for me for just a little while.” 

Jamie has seen you undressed, but not like this. They might have caught some glimpses when they pulled you out of the querrow burrow. You were covered in blood and dirt, and they were running on pure adrenaline. Their gaze didn’t linger longer than it took to wipe you clean and patch your wounds. Leaning against them in a rest stop bathroom, trying not to cry out as they whispered apologies and examined the wound in your leg, there was no time for languid attention and warmth. 

This is different. They undress you like they’re unwrapping a precious gift. Their palms slide against newly-exposed skin with reverence and they steal quick, fleeting kisses wherever they can. You almost forget about all the eyes on you both. Jamie pulls you into their lap and arranges you very precisely, knees apart, legs open, your hands on their shoulders and theirs on your hips. The heat in their gaze alone makes you shudder.

“And you called me gorgeous,” they purr. You want to hide your face but they click their tongue, titling your chin so you’re meeting their eyes. “We have to hold still, courier. They’re trying to draw.” They gasp, biting their lip. Their hips twitch under you. You try to look down but they catch your chin again, chuckling. “Eyes on me,” they whisper. You hear the scratch of pencils. Something’s clearly happening to Jamie—exciting them—but you aren’t sure what. 

Until it touches you. Trying to look at it again earns you a nipping kiss, the fluke pricking your lips with its appendage. Jamie moans with a shudder. It’s small, whatever it is. Thin but undulating, able to flex itself into a wider shape. It’s firm but flexible, smooth and textureless. Jamie’s eyelids flutter, their lashes resting against their cheek as they bite back a whimper. 

It’s the fluke, you realize. That’s the part of its body that was curled up, unanchored to anything. It’s moving in and out of Jamie and slithering against your thighs. You’re impressed—and admittedly a bit disappointed—that it never penetrates you, content to rub against your skin. Maybe that would be too much; Jamie is already shivering, struggling to hold in soft, needy sounds. 

“You could…” You trail off, feeling hot and delirious with both embarrassment and desire. “If you want, you can…” 

“Not right now,” Jamie murmurs. They take a deep breath, squeezing your hips to ground themselves. “Not…not right now. I wouldn’t last. I just wanted you to…to know. Everything about me.” 

There’s a prickling sensation in your head; the indistinct murmur of a conversation happening without you. The God of Nelton is communicating with Jamie’s fluke, you think. You don’t know what they say, but you feel…Shame. Unease. The God of Nelton pulses with soft reassurances but Jamie’s fluke is distraught. Its retort is a thorny feeling, the hiss of steam from a kettle.

They think you’ll change your mind. That you might not like what you see.

You feel only a little guilty about being a poor figure drawing model, pressing yourself against Jamie fully and kissing them, all tongue and teeth and hunger, without hesitation. You stroke the fluke with your tongue and Jamie arches into you, whimpering into your mouth. They look wrecked when you pull back, hazy-eyed and panting. They came just from that, you realize. From the touch and the closeness, from the only thought running through your head and passing along the unearthly connection between your minds.

“Maybe I want to keep you, too.”

“Was it that hot when I said it to you?” Jamie asks breathlessly. They laugh, resting their forehead against yours. You both apologize to the artists but they seem unconcerned, still sketching even as you lean further into each other, desperate for the shared warmth of skin on skin. Jamie rests their head on your shoulder. You feel a long, relieved exhale fan across your back. 

The fluke, you notice, is still nestled between your thighs. “Is it…still hard?” you ask, trying to whisper. 

Not successfully, apparently, if the barely restrained laughter is any indication. “It’s not a dick, courier,” Jamie says. They sound exasperated but you can hear the smirk in their voice. “It’ll retract when it’s ready. We’re just…enjoying the moment.” 

“We should really do this more often.” 

“Mm. We should, shouldn’t we?” 

You’re both thinking about it—Anchor. Aliquando Island. All the unnecessary cruelty in the Drift. But Jamie is warm and trailing kisses across your cheek, encouraging you to hold onto them more firmly, more tightly, not like they’re made of glass, and you think you can close your eyes and only think of this for a little longer.

(next)

[womanexile]

Harry Styles and Taylor Swift twin flame dreams

If you haven’t seen my previous post about Harry and Taylor being twin flames you can read that here.

A twin flame connection is telepathic and empathic. You will each feel and experience, energetically and emotionally, what the other is going through.

You may have twin flame dreams before you meet your divine counterpart and have a premonition they'll be entering your life. This type of twin flame dream can be repetitive. You may encounter this same spiritual being again and again. You'll feel a strong connection to their energy. And you will probably feel unconditional love toward them, even though you haven't met in real life.

SOTB “one night a few moons ago I saw flecks of what could have been lights but it might just have been you passing by unbeknownst to me”

There's also a strong probability you can envision events that point to past lives or even future ones. In these situations you will see yourselves in multiple incarnations through time. You'll see the different roles you share with each other and how they play out in each life time. We can have multiple soul mates in a lifetime, but we each only have one twin flame.

Timeless “So, even in a different life, you still would've been mine, We would've been timeless”

Twin flame dreams during separation are both whispers of longing and a mystical bridge connecting twin flames despite physical distance. It’s a place where both of you can spend time together, communicate and help guide one another back together.

Communication in dreams between twin flames usually occurs when the two people are physically separated. Therefore, when they fall into a deep sleep their minds seek to connect through their subconscious with the other person, so that they can communicate with each other despite the distance.

Twin flame dreams usually occur on the astral plane and will feel very real to you. When you awaken you may feel you can sense them, feel them or even smell them. You will feel you're really in their presence. But it will be in another place, another time and a different reality, as you talk and share with each other.

She Got Away “when I close my eyes I swear that I can see her”

WITW “just close your eyes and see I’ll be by your side anytime you’re needing me”

DBATC “flashbacks waking me up”

Evermore “in the cracks of light, I dreamed of you and it was real enough to get me through but I swear you were there”

Maroon “I feel you no matter what” “and I wake with your memory over me”

If you wake up in the morning and can feel that your twin is there with you, this can be a sign that they were dreaming about you.

So in the unconscious state, you may encounter different situations your spiritual partner is currently going through. If you're separated by distance for example, you can have twin flame dreams where you see, know and understand their daily activities. This allows you to experience the energy and presence of your twin, even though they're far away. Many twin flames even report feeling sexual union with their twin on the astral plane.

For this dream telepathy to occur, however, the physical attraction and desire to be together must be mutual on the part of the twins and really intense. Otherwise, the connection through dreams would never be successful and only one party would dream of the other but never meet. Telepathy in dreams can occur in different ways, the most usual being that both twin flames meet in the same dream, that they use astral projection to travel together in the same dream, or that one of the two can influence in a totally conscious way the dream of the other to get to be together.

Cruel Summer “fever dream high in the quiet of the night”

She “she lives in daydreams with me”

Daydreaming “livin in a daydream”

Boyfriends “you lay with him as you stay in the daydream”

Ivy “I’d meet you where the spirit meets the bones in a faith-forgotten land”

Two Ghost mv

In the Two Ghost mv is Harry trying to show us his and Taylor’s meeting place in their dreams? Is this their “garden”.

Sweet Creature “running through the garden oh where nothing bothered us”

Cruel Summer “snuck in through the garden gate every night that summer just to seal my fate”

Betty “in the garden would you trust me?”

Cowboy Like Me “you hang from my lips like the Gardens of Babylon”

Little Freak “you bring blue lights to dreams”

…Ready For It? “In the middle of the night, in my dreams, you should see the things we do, baby, in the middle of the night in my dreams, I know I’m gonna be with you so I take my time”

Golden “I’m hopeless, broken, so you wait for me in the sky”

The longer a twin flame union lasts, the more intimate telepathy becomes. Telepathy can occur in the form of dreams. You could wake up with an intense feeling carried from your dream state.

Some people believe that dreams can make your twin flame bond stronger.

Twin flames are connected at a higher level. This bond can be used to transfer emotions, interests, messages and (in this case) connect you both together when you dream.

These dreams can take many forms, but they often involve intense emotions such as love or longing. They may also feature symbols or imagery related to the twin flames relationship, such as two hearts intertwined or two people walking hand-in-hand.

AOTGYLB “a heart is draw around your name in someone’s handwriting, not mine”

They provide solace and comfort in the darkest of nights, offering hope that reunion is possible. Twin flame dreams can also give insight into what could be if the two souls reunite – providing glimpses of a future together.

SOTT “we can meet again somewhere, somewhere far away from here”

Afterglow “meet me in the afterglow”

Since the greatest aim of a twin flame relationship is to bring something of value to the world, your twin flame dreams may provide guidance and insight to your shared destiny.

You're very likely to have the same ideas about what your gift to the world is.

Meditation is also a useful way to channel your energy and thoughts towards meeting with your twin flame in the dream space.

Taylor and Harry talking about dreams

Wildest Dreams “say you’ll remember me even if it’s just in your wildest dreams”

This Love “in silent screams, in wildest dreams”

Night Changes “everything that you’ve ever dreamed of, disappearing when you wake up”

Olivia “when you go and I’m alone you live in my imagination”

WITW “but it’s not the end, I’ll see your face again and you will find me in places that we’ve never been for reasons we don’t understand”

Ivy “oh I can’t stop you putting roots in my dreamland”

Sources:

[kozpine]

Temnota

diluc x reader, part 2 of ?

1 2

-

The next day allowed no time to rest. You’d only just finished getting dressed when there was a knock at the door. 

“Madam, it’s time for breakfast.” 

“Be right there!”

You huffed in annoyance. There was almost no time you had to yourself. Even though that was ordinary for you, it was still a source of irritation. You couldn’t think of the last time you were able to eat something made by your own hands, something you actually liked. 

“Perhaps the Monds know what seasoning is.”

Breakfast was a surprising delight. You enjoyed the local eggs and chicken. It felt odd, eating in the common breakfast room that the building provided. 

Though you were meant to be a rich woman, some part of your mind was expecting the living quarters to be your only grace. You realized you hadn’t even looked up- meeting the sight of a few others scattered about, all wearing the newest clothes from the capital back home. 

One caught wind of your gaze, excusing herself to saunter over to your table. “I haven’t seen you before.” She sat herself, continuing. “Not many new people visit here often, and women at that.” You swallowed the impolitely large bite you had taken. 

“I’m here for business. I go by Miss Petrova.” You reached a hand out, hers extending to meet yours. “You go by Miss Petrova?” You realized your mistake.

“Well, it’s a more formal name. I don’t get called y/n much, not too many friends to remember it.” She grinned, and a gem embedded on her tooth sparkled.

“Well that’s just perfect. I’m here with my wife, and she’s the only one to call me by my name as well here. I miss hearing it from my friends back home. I’m Anya.”

“y/n,” you repeated, this time saying your name with more friendliness attached. 

Anya settled into her seat. “I’m sure you have many things to do on your first day here, but may I suggest some places to see?” 

You nodded, motioning for her to continue.

“Well, there’s the cathedral for one. The chorus there is splendid on Sundays, even for the less religiously inclined such as myself. Second is the library in the Knights of Favonius headquarters. They don’t often allow outsiders in, however if you have the funds,” she discreetly flashed a full pouch, “they’ll turn their eyes.”

You laughed, surprised at the lax nature of this place and the woman in front of you. She suddenly clapped her hands together.

“I almost forgot! The Windblume Festival. You’ve come just in time, depending how long you’re here for. It’s this giant event that happens every spring. Lots of food and shopping to do. Oh I know we’ve only just met but I would love to take you. My partner and I try to go every year, but she always gets caught up with business.” 

You were impressed by her friendliness. “I’d love to.” You smiled, this time genuinely.

She sprang up. “I forgot! I’m supposed to be at the tailor’s in a bit.”

You placed your hand on the table. “Ah, I forgot to ask! Is there.. A good place to get a drink around here? You know, traveling and all takes a toll.” Anya looked puzzled. 

“Besides the restaurants, nowhere dignified. But I suppose…” She thought. “Angel’s Share on the southeast side isn’t a bad choice. They have some vip rooms. And Master Diluc, the tycoon, sometimes takes up a shift. He’s far from an eyesore.” Anya winked. She waved goodbye before being ushered out by two servants.

You sat back, wind knocked out of you by such a pleasant interaction. She must not be home much, you thought. The capital women back home always seemed so cold and kniving, not even batting an eye to your class.

Maybe this place will be more fun than you thought.

-

You gathered your things and walked outside into the sunny air of the city. The wind never let up here, always a soft breeze to remind you that this was the City of Freedom. Ironic that you were here. Passerbys looked at you often, and you looked down at your clothes. Very out of place, with the dark tones contrasting the brightness of the city. It felt like you were the only one dressed for a funeral.

That’s when a clothing store across the way caught your eye. You crossed the busy street, and the old wooden door of the shop rang a bell as you entered. An older woman waved you in, and you bowed your head before examining a nearby rack. You buzzed about before a certain outfit on display caught your eye. It was miles more casual than the dress you wore.

You put your hand on the linen sleeves of the white button down on the mannequin. Its cuffs were ruffled, intricate embroidered patterns climbing up the wrist. The brown leather shorts were layed underneath a tawny corset. It looked more comfortable, something easy to move in. 

Trying it on felt like a glove, down to the knee-high leather boots it was accompanied with. You spun, this outfit feeling more familiar.

You graciously paid and left still wearing the outfit. The last dress was dropped off before you made your way south. 

The streets got more compact with people, now seeing rows of street vendors. “Southeast..” You murmured, referencing the map Anya had snuck onto the table.

At last, you stopped outside of a leaning building, big letters reading “Angel’s Share”. Only a moment had passed before the door opened and someone was shoved outside. He appeared to be a bard who’d clearly had too much to drink. “I’ll be back for more!”

A voice attached to the arm that had pushed him out grumbled something before slamming the door shut. The bard stumbled up, and winked at you as he passed. You were a bit weirded out, but then again it was a new city. 

Your new boots clacked against the wooden floors as you entered. Nobody was there to seat you, so you picked a spot near an open window. It overlooked the street, with more than enough citizens to people-watch. 

You were so immersed in some argument happening between two vendors and one panicked woman trying to decide who to buy from that you had ignored the heavy footsteps approaching you.

“Can I buy you a drink?” You looked up to see an older man, probably in his thirties, with a half-empty glass in his hand.

“Oh, no, that’s alright. I’m waiting for someone.” You declined.

He brushed off his shoulder and put his arms on the table. “Come on now miss, who would be such an arse that they’d leave you to wait alone?” The man smirked. “I’m much better company.”

“No thanks.” You refused once more, placing a hand on the hilt of your knife shrouded on your belt. 

You had halfway unsheathed your blade before a familiar voice called out. “Go back and sit down Henry. She doesn’t want to listen to your boring battle tales.” You looked up to see Diluc, dressed more casually. He hung his coat and flashed his forearms as he pulled his sleeves up.

The man just grunted and went back to his buddies, who immediately laughed as he punched one in the arm. You sighed, grateful for his interference.

Probably wouldn’t look good if I killed someone my first day here. Diluc only looked at you for a second before turning and walking behind the bar. You wanted to say something, but before you could get up another patron demanded his attention.

So you sat and watched. A waiter had brought you a drink and you sipped while observing Diluc working. He was surprisingly skillful at his work, pouring drink upon drink. You watched the way his long ponytail moved as he shook drinks, expression never changing.

It was a while before things started to calm down. You finally got up and made your way to the counter. 

“Thank you-” you started, him not even looking in your direction, “for that.” He shrugged. “Didn’t want to deal with his mess today.” You paused. “Still, it’s appreciated. Not many people would notice that kind of thing and actually do something about it.”

Diluc seemed annoyed and turned to another customer. “Don’t mention it.”

You were stumped. Weren’t bartenders supposed to be more friendly? I mean, it’s customer service. You shook it off, trying to pry back into his graces.

“If you have a bit of free time, do you think you could show me around? I’m still not familiar with most of the city.” He finally turned back to face you. 

“I’m always busy.” 

You put on your best pleading face, waiting a bit before he finally put a hand on his forehead.

“Fine. I get off later this evening, but it’ll only be for a few hours.” You clapped. “Yay! And I thought you were going to keep being all stoic and shit.” 

He looked surprised by your cursing. Fuck, I’m supposed to be classy. You spoke once more. “Sorry, I meant all stoic and stuff. Still getting used to keeping business talk on twenty-four seven.”

He rolled his eyes, signaling your time to buzz off. You smiled before leaving the tavern, this time making your way back through the main part of the city. That’s when you saw it- business owners hanging garlands, pinning white flowers to the branches. The entire street was covered in shades of green, orange, white, blues. It registered to you as preparation for the festival. 

“So pretty, isn’t it!”

You let out a shrill yelp, whisking around to see Anya’s face gleaming at you. “Gods, you scared me.” She giggled and pulled out an orange flower.

“A gift from a vendor. She said my face was as rare as this is.” Anya spun it in her hand. “Then I saw that they were on clearance.” She puffed. You laughed at her dissapointment.

“So where have you been all day?” Anya asked. You looked up, thinking. “I see you have a new outfit,” she motioned to your more casual attire, “must be integrating yourself.”

You shook your head. “More like trying to free up my limbs. I still can’t get used to dresses.” She agreed with your retort. Looking back to the street, you saw two children chasing a ball. 

“It’s so much more laid back here. Everyone just seems so…”

“Free?” She peered at your objects of attention. “Well, it is the city of freedom after all.” She made a clicking noise. “Thats why we vacation here. It’s like a whole new experience after being sheltered in the snow nine months out of the year.”

You couldn’t argue with here. You saw what she meant, but couldn’t suppress the jealousy that pained your chest. It seemed as if she could feel your pain, quickly changing the topic. “So, did you get a chance to meet Master Diluc?” 

A flash of him behind the bar flickered in your vision. “Yes, very cold and.. Standoffish.” Was he always like this?

“That’s part of his charm. There are so many girls demanding his attention here, so he has to find some way to ward them off.” She started again. “Otherwise groups of girls would return home every day promising their parents that a proposal was near.”

You could see his appeal. Wealthiest man in the country with unlimited connections to other countries, and the looks didn’t hurt. Though there was something about his icy personality that you couldn’t quite shake. 

“He’s supposed to show me around later.”

Anya gasped. “Well that’s just wonderful! I’m sure he has many places to recommend, and definitely knows more than I do.”

You walked with her, stopping to taste food here and there before she had to get picked up and escorted back. The sun looked like it would set soon, so you sat on a stoop and waited. 

This place felt like a dream. It was such a stark opposite of where you came from, where sunlight was a privilege to people like you. You toyed with the vision in your hand, its purple hue reminding you not to get too comfortable.

Just as you thought he wouldn’t show, you heard the sound of women murmuring on the street before a shadow covered you. 

“Ready to go?”

-

-lilah

[bootyful-seventeen]

Sam! How is Love and Deep Space? I’ve heard it’s a great game, but suuuuuuuuuuper addictive.

So, what’s the hype?

Omg it is addicting cuz I’ve been playing for 181 days straight and find that it’s similar enough to Disney’s twisted wonderland that I breeze through it for the most part. Both are card based gatcha games and have a main storyline that you can play through until you’ve read to the latest chapter and are playing more of the events that have a new card that is 3 star (R), 4 star(SR) or 5 stars(SSR) tier card. In l&ds the 5 star cards are the ones with a playable memory that you can play through out of the 4 guys they currently have available. Occasionally you’ll see a reward code online and can redeem them to get items like gems, coins, accessories, banners, avatar frames etc. there is a main storyline but sometimes I forget what happens cuz it’s more of a slower pace then twisted wonderland and I always choose to play the storyline when I’m hanging onto consciousness by a thread when I play at 4 am 😂💀 but the cards aren’t all just dates cuz some of the 5 star cards have a pit and as you level those up you can unlock chapters of a story for that pair. Cuz another thing was that it’s a game that mingles the character’s past, present and future but as different lifetimes.

You can fight a couple different battles to get rewards and help not only yourself level up but these cards as well and get more rewards cuz every card has a section that tells you all the rewards you can get my maxing the level and ranking it up. And certain cards match well against certain enemies they distinguish with colours. I don’t remember what each colour means but so far just matching the card colour to what gets shown works. And that’s another part that differs from twst cuz in that game when battling you can choose 5 different character cards or 5 different cards of the same character. Here if you pick a card then the only options to fill that team with is that same character. There’s also daily and weekly tasks to complete to get rewards so we’re getting a bunch of free stuff in game. There’s also sections where you can read a bit more info about certain things but I’m a bad user and just skip through those and tell myself I’ll read it later lol. With the latest update we got abyssal chaos which has battles, a few mini games and a storyline for you to complete and get tons of rewards for. I haven’t tried to count up what I got today but it’s at least 1000 gems since I remember yesterday I had 75 left over from trying my luck at the wish pool to get the Sylus card where he’s tied up. What can I say? It’s a white haired villain that’s restrained and I am weak 😂😂

There’s also a section for the little dates you can go on like going to the arcade, play kitty cards and taking photos in the Photo Booth. In the photo booth you can change your outfits and his to fit whatever you want. And you can change his outfit for the Home Screen of the game along with the background music and background. The character you play as is also very customizable except for body and hair type so I have seen some users say they’ve spent at least an hour customizing lmao. You also can live the memories of the 5 star cards and get to experience some of them. Some are cute and some are slightly spicy. Oh and I almost forgot that you can change the written and audio language to English, Japanese, Korean or Chinese (simplified or traditional I think cuz they write the languages in their respective languages and that’s what I’ve read on love and deepspace Reddit lmaoo sooo yee)

A huge hype factor tho is the graphics in the game cuz the way these characters look give off final fantasy advent children vibes. Which to me is insane cuz all my mobile otome games that I’ve played in the last decade had been like 2D anime like. So this one sticks out very much to me

[thesingingrevolution]

the way winwin carefully scheduled his year around the wayv comeback but sm suddenly switched the comeback dates up on him and he ended up not being able to participate ... and THEN he cant make it to the versache event cus he has to talk all of this out w the company.

yunquis r so strong... i would not be able to deal fr. how do u do it???

first of all thanks for your message 🙇🏻‍♀️💌

personally, i felt so upset and disappointed when the news broke :( it was bad enough it was gonna be an ot5 comeback, but when it was revealed it was because sm changed their pre planned schedule it made me angry. i understand that winwin has other important activities and if it was his own choice to sit this one out, i would have respected his decision and happily supported the other five members. but the fact that he went out of his way to ensure his schedule would align and they couldn’t even respect that.. it made me really sad. as far as we know, there is no reason this comeback had to me moved up. they just did it. and i’ve never seen anything like it, how can a company not respect their artist in this incredibly basic way? it’s heartbreaking.

i wish winwin stays in nct because i truly love him and i love his friendships in the group and his contributions etc etc but stuff like this makes me wish more and more than he only does what he needs to do for his career and happiness, regardless of how we feel. these transgressions are too serious in my opinion, to the point that when wayv were promoting on my youth during the last few months of 2023 as a proper group it almost felt like a fever dream. a full group promoting a comeback together should not be a rare occurrence. it’s so so so sad and wayv as a whole deserve so much better. the fact that i felt absolutely no excitement over this cb and haven’t even looked at concept pics or listened to any songs says so much. i will eventually, but it hurts right now :( i will need some time to get over this. not the fault of any of the members, of course!!! will always love and wish then the best.

moreover i hate that this feeds into the idea that winwin doesn’t care about his group. it’s such a common sentiment in the (toxic/misinformed/immature) parts of the fandom. if anything, winwin’s actions and deliberate desire to partake in the cb tells us the EXACT OPPOSITE. if he didn’t care, he clearly wouldn’t have gone through the trouble. like you’ve said, it’s causing more issues for him. so why would he do it if he didn’t care? i’m glad some clarifying posts went semi viral, and there was a decent amount of outrage. rightfully so.

as for how i do it….. my friend,, it’s not easy. to be honest, i have had periods where it wasn’t good for me (last summer, for example, i had so much free time to dedicate to kpop and it started affecting my mental health when i saw my fav neglected and disrespected all the time). thankfully i am better now and have been for a long time, it’s really embarrassing to admit kpop can mess one up like that lol but i hope people can be honest about how they feel since it’s very real in my experience. i try not too think about it too much and keep busy with other things, i took a huge step back from stan twitter and i only follow a few yunqi accs who post updates/positivity and don’t engage in fanwars and spread aggression across the internet. as for his company, it’s a bit more complicated. i feel as though his potential has never been fully realized, which is sad for a seasoned idol so many years into his career. but it also gives him so much space to grow, every now and then i am so surprised by his incredible work in other areas, because he was held back so much. i am so glad there are people who recognize his potential <3

i also try to remember that even though i love nct and its a huge part of my life, it’s just music and no matter what happens things will be alright. we will always have the good times and memories and that makes me feel better when i get upset. lastly, i learned to primarily focus on my own friends and my own thoughts. just last night, i told a friend i love winwin the most and she said she likes him and that he suits me as a bias. all my irl kpop stan friends have been nothing but supportive and sweet. and in my own head, winwin is the best, i dont have to think about his company and random people online to hold that opinion, and at the end of the day my thoughts are the only ones that really matter when it comes to this.

i’m sorry this is so long hahahha, but hopefully it explains a little about how i feel about all this!! once again thank you for your message 💖

[putschki1969]

Hello Puts!

Happy New Year and Merry Christmas ❄️

How are you doing? How were your holidays?

I have a question/thought about Hikaru?

I'm so worried about what she's going to do next. Will she continue to sing? On the one hand, the fact that the contract was not renewed is logical - it is obvious that the agency could not offer her anything new. But what's next?

Hello there!

Thank you! All the best to you as well!

I have honestly felt quite drained in the past few weeks.T_T After getting back from Japan I went straight back to work. I haven’t really had time to rest properly. This has frustrated me to no end because I still want to write a bunch of reports about my Japan trip but damn it, I just can’t bring myself to do it *sighs* Anyways, enough complaining, I will get to that stuff eventually! Now let’s see what we can do about your question.

It’s a really good question and I have been wondering the same thing. Hikaru’s current situation is quite literally a mess but in her New Year’s post she was pretty straight-forward about wanting to continue to make music in some shape or form. I expect her to make some guest appearance this year and maybe we’ll even see the one or the other collaboration (possibly with Keiko). She doesn’t seem to have the means to organise proper one-man-lives at the moment so she has to rely on small gigs with other artists. Let’s hope she can move past that soon. Don’t get me wrong, I am happy she has some work at least but performing three songs in a tiny live house in front of a hundred people won’t get her far in terms of reaching a wider audience (or even her loyal fanbase). I know it’s not necessarily her goal anymore to become popular but I would want her events to be a bit more accessible.

I am glad she has her theater commitment right now because that seems to keep her busy and happy. I briefly mentioned it in my report of the Ambient Border -DAWN- event but it’s obvious that she feels very comfortable with the C.C.C theater group members. It’s a good thing to see her this carefree and passionate about something. The fact that Hikaru gets to sing not only one but two songs (Ambient Border & Under the Rain) for the upcoming play gives me hope that there will be some sort of CD release accompanying the show. Also, please let there be a broadcast like last time! I am so curious about her performance!

With all her involvement in theater work, I wonder if this is maybe her slow transition into musicals? I mean, it would be the next logical step for her. It’s what Hikaru started out doing as a kid and teenager. It’s obviously something she enjoys and from what we have seen so far, she can quite masterfully tackle the acting part. These days there are quite a lot of Japanese artists who are doing musicals once in a while. Her vocal range might not be suitable for all roles but then again, if singers with the most generic anisong voices (e.g .May’n or Nana Mizuki) can do musicals, so can Hikaru!! Unfortunately, the Spice guy and his theater gang don’t strike me as particularly influential in the entertainment industry so they probably cannot help Hikaru get a foot in the door of the musical world.

As far as Hikaru’s YouTube videos are concerned, I have no idea where she is heading with her channel. I am enjoying her stuff a lot but it doesn’t really seem to lead anywhere. There is no way she is gonna attract a wider audience with her current content, especially since there are a ton of other Japanese YouTubers out there who are doing the exact same thing. That specific influencer/content creator market is already very saturated. In my opinion, she should really post more music-related videos because music is what she is known for so she has a big advantage in that field...

Everyone, feel free to chime in...

UPDATE:

Funnily enough,Hikaru posted this tweet today (January 15). Sometimes I feel like she reads my blog XD

I've received several messages about work inquiries and while I would like to talk about them with you I am currently not able to. It hurts me to say that this disingenuous state will continue and I am honestly so sorry about it. I'm working hard to reach a place where I can openly talk with everyone and explain the situation. Please rest assured that I will tell you everything as soon as I am able to.

[chaotic-super]

Back To Krypton - Chapter 23

Read Back To Krypton on Ao3 here!

Following the events that transpired with the pollen pods and the group getting separated, albeit only briefly, they made the decision as a group that from then on, they would be as cautious as possible, giving into boredom in order to be as safe as possible.

Everything turned out ok before but next time, it might not so they needed to change their attitudes and behaviours to better keep them safe.

This led to them simply following along the ravine. Thanks to all of the boulders littered around, they have to climb over several miles of rock, being overly careful to not injure themselves but within a week, they get back to normal ground, something they were all grateful for.

That being said that week of climbing over those boulders was, as you would expect, absolutely awful. Their hands and feet were sore by the end of every day from the rough surfaces and their fingertips ended up cracked and bleeding, the only one free of that pain was Esme, who enjoyed the experience immensely, clinging onto whoever’s turn it was to give her a piggyback across the rough terrain.

Kara slowly healed, the climbing not helping a whole lot with that, but within a couple of weeks, she was pretty much right as rain, her bruises fading into a soft yellow colour, fading with each passing day.

There’s not a lot to say about the rest of their time between then and now, it’s like they have been living the same day over and over again, walking along a path that is as familiar and unstimulating as it was the last day.

They have been walking it for almost five weeks, nothing of any significance happening, living in a constant cycle of waking up, eating, walking, taking a break, walking, eating and sleeping.

It’s been a long, tiring process but now, now they are finally at a point of change, a point where they won’t have to stare at the same dirt walls all day anymore.

“Please tell me we are where I think we are,” Kelly says, her feet aching and her jacket tied around her waist.

“We are where you think we are,” Kara says, voice filled with excitement and notebook in hand, mapping out their new location, an easy feat because they have officially reached the end of the ravine and by the heat in the air, they are well on their way to The Fire Falls.

Nia cheers tiredly, leading the rest of them to do the same, their eyes simultaneously drooping and trying to drink in the fresh sights of something different.

Up ahead of them, they are able to see the ravine sloping upwards, giving them a perfect ramp to walk up to get out of the pit of boredom and beyond that, a line of trees, something they haven’t seen a whole lot of in the past few weeks.

Lena shakes her hand, grabbing the attention of Kara, whose hand is clasped in her own, both palms slightly sweaty but neither caring. “Now that’s a sight for sore eyes.”

“Isn’t it just?” Kara answers, swinging their arms and pulling her to get her to keep walking, prompting the others to do the same since they had slowed to take in the sights. “I’m excited to be done with this part, this has been the most boring period of my life that I’ve ever lived through, definitely the least action-packed part of my life so far.”

“We have been surrounded by deadly plants the entire time, how is that not action-packed?” Alex asks, frowning.

Kara shrugs. “We weren’t that close to them, we just walked in a long dent of dirt for forever and a day, it’s not the same, as much as I hate danger, you need it around or else you’ll have a dull life.”

Alex shoulder barges her as she overtakes her, eyes pinned on the slope, ready to be out of this damned ravine, “correction, dear sister, you’ll have a safe life.”

“And a boring one.” Kara reaffirms, throwing her arm out quickly enough to get a light smack to land on Alex’s arm as she passes, her attempt to rush past fast enough to avoid any retaliation foiled.

They all find themselves speed walking, ready to get back out into the rest of the world, barely even sparing a second thought for what might be waiting for them up there, not appreciating the safety that the ravine has been giving them, their need to be free too strong for them to think on it too much.

The tension from Kara and Lena’s joined hands slackens when Kara stops dragging Lena along with her, Lena getting excited enough herself that her pace naturally picks up, looking forward to having the open space of the forest surrounding them once more, even if it does mean that they will have to watch where they are going now, shutting off their ability to zone out and stare at nothing in particular while they walk.

The group races up the slope, closing their eyes and looking up at the open sky when they reach the top, thriving in the space they now possess and rejoicing in the milestone of the mission that they have reached, something they have desperately been needing since all of the setbacks they have had to deal with.

Now that they aren’t surrounded by the walls of dirt, they are more attuned to the sounds around them. Having been surrounded, they were sheltered from a lot of the noise that they hadn’t even noticed before, but now that they are here, the sound of the leaves rustling and their boots squelching on the slick coat of leaves on the ground is welcoming in a way that they didn’t know they needed.

“We should head for higher ground, we want to make sure that we are heading around The Fire Falls, not towards them, we aren’t going for a family swimming session any time soon.” Kara declares, taking a look around to determine where they might find higher ground the quickest.

Nia and Esme are smiling over to the side, Esme on Nia’s shoulders and looking around at everything going on, thrilled to be somewhere new. “Aunt Kara, Aunt Kara, over there!” Esme calls out, pointing a finger into the trees and wiggling happily on Nia’s shoulders, Nia gripping her legs to stop her from tumbling right off because of her happy little jig.

Everyone starts moving closer to try and look where Esme is pointing and all of them are immediately turning to Esme to praise her for her keen eye, setting their internal compasses towards a tall hill that will let them see above the treeline so they can map out their journey from here on out.

Alex leans up to take Esme down from Nia’s shoulders, spinning her around until she giggles and telling her, “you’re the best lookout ever, much better than the rest of us combined. You’re a little walking genius!”

“We all know that! We have the smartest most beautiful daughter on the planet.” Kelly gushes, joining her wife and daughter in their giggling, joining in to tickle her daughter’s sides while she’s perched on Alex’s hip.

“Technically, the child version of me is on this planet along with my parents and I should be offended.” Kara murmurs, shutting up when Lena nudges her with her elbow and shoots her a steely-eyed glare, daring her to say anything else that might ruin the moment the Olsen- Danvers clan are currently having.

“Sorry,” Kara mumbles under her breath, fearing the wrath of her pissed-off girlfriend. If she stops now, she won’t have to pout until her lips are sore later trying to rid Lena of the frown that would inevitably be in place if she continued.

“Wait until we get into our tent tonight, you will be.” Lena leans in close to whisper it to her, her words sultry and full of promise.

“Absolutely not, please don’t not make me ask you a second time.” Nia steps between them, taking a hold of each of their wrists and breaking apart their joined hands. “I don’t know what you just said but I have been overhearing noises from your tent at night that no innocent person, such as myself, should be hearing. Additionally, if I can hear you, so can the others and they have a child. Think of the children.”

Kara and Lena share a panicked look before Lena’s turns into mild confusion. “Children?”

“Yeah, me and Esme, we don’t need to be traumatized the way you have been doing.”

Sucking her lips into her mouth and biting back her laugh, Kara jumps into the conversation. “I have a good pair of earplugs in my pack if you want to borrow them?”

Nia’s face twists in disgust, her body shuddering in a way that makes Lena snicker too. “We’ll put up our tent a little further away from yours tonight, how does that sound?

“I hate you both, and you can keep your earplugs, I don’t want anything that has touched your filthy, filthy bodies, you horny teenagers.”

“What’s horny?” Esme’s sweet voice cuts into their conversation, horrifying all five of the adults there.

To Kara’s great surprise and relief, all of Kelly and Alex’s anger is being directed to Nia rather than her since she’s the one that said the word.

It is funny to see the way that Nia is faltering beneath the two harsh gazes burning holes into her skull and the way she is almost sweating from the hard work her brain is putting in trying to figure out how to ease the death glares.

“Um, Kara, you know what horny is, why don’t you take this one.” Nia speeds out before speeding off in the direction of the hill, having no qualms about taking the coward’s way out on this one.

“Nia!” Kara hisses after her, eyes wide and apologetic when she turns towards her sister, shrinking in on herself and praying that she doesn’t get murdered tonight.

Lena, as always, comes to her rescue. “Esme, honey, it’s a word that is used when adults that love each other want to cuddle for a super duper long time.”

Kara nods along right away, Lena just saved her so she isn’t going to put her foot in her mouth now. “That’s right, now let’s go and catch up to Nia!” Her words are loud and way too overzealous but they do the trick and get everyone walking, Esme gives no indication of whether or not she believes Lena’s explanation but drops it, suddenly more concerned with reaching up to touch the leaves of the trees they are walking under.

Kara clears her throat, running her fingers down Lena’s wrist to take her hand again, meeting no resistance but not having Lena tighten her fingers around her own like she usually does shows her that she’s mad. “Sorry.”

“You will be,” Lena answers.

“In a good way or-“ The sideward glance she gets answers her question well enough. “Right, nope,  got it.”

They fall into silence, the wind whistling through the branches of the trees filling the air enough that it doesn’t feel uncomfortable, quite the opposite if anything. Lena takes a look at her girlfriend out of the corner of her eye, spotting the pout immediately and feeling her heart being filled with fondness even if she is annoyed that she was acting like a child.

She tightens her fingers around Kara’s, giving her hand a little squeeze to show she isn’t actually mad and does her best not to react when she slyly watches the pout melt off of Kara’s face, a content smile taking its place.

“Love you.” Kara murmurs, quiet enough for it to only reach Lena’s ears.

Lena rolls her eyes, dropping Kara’s hand to instead wrap her arm around her waist, tucking it beneath the weight of her pack. “Love you too, weirdo.”

“That’s not very nice.”

“It’s very fitting though.”

“Debatable.”

“Not really.”

Lena can’t keep the smile off her face by this point. Kara is going to be the death of her but she can’t lie, Kara has made the past few weeks tolerable, she’s really been her rock and has kept her positive throughout their endless trek through the ravine and has been doing whatever she can to keep her in good spirits, telling her jokes and funny stories, reading the books out loud to the group to keep them entertained and doing the voices for the characters, and being emotionally present, something she doesn’t have much practice with, but something that now she’s had it in a romantic sense, she could never compromise on again if this doesn’t work out.

Something tells her that it will though, she’ll make it work. They’ll make it work. Every night when they get to their tent, they’ve been spending at least an hour or two just talking, having every kind of deep and meaningful conversation you can think of and the lightest fluffiest ones too, as well as everything in between.

Of course, there are some kinds of conversations that led to a little less talking happening, something that they are now aware that the others could hear too, all thanks to Nia. They are definitely moving their tent further away from the other two tents tonight.

Kara’s giggles at their little discussion cause her to join in, she makes a show of trying not to laugh but doesn’t really try that hard to hold it in. “You’re a goofball.”

“So are you,” Kara argues. “That’s why we’re doing so well together.”

“You’re the goof and I’m the ball because I have a huge-“

“Please minimize the likelihood of you traumatizing everyone here, Lena, by shutting up now before you say something that gets a certain someone to ask more questions that are not age appropriate.” Kelly cuts in, overhearing the whole thing. She does find them very cute together but, at times, they lack some serious common sense on volume control around other people

Both women shoot her an apologetic look and instead fall back into the comfortable silence, content to make the rest of the journey to the hill, that is just up ahead, maybe a ten-minute walk more, completely peaceful so that they can enjoy nature and each other’s company.

The closer they get to the hill, the more they can see it and realize that it’s more of a random lump of rock sticking up out of the ground with a completely smooth surface on the side that is facing them and unless the sides are any different, it’s going to be a major pain in the ass to try and climb.

They get nearer still until they are right up to the base of it, rounding the side of it to see if it will be any better for them to climb. It seems as though it’s their lucky day though because there’s a split in the rock that is the perfect width for someone to use as leverage to shimmy their way up to the top.

“I’ll go up, I have the notebook and know what to look for so we can get going properly.” Kara determines, sliding her notebook into her pocket and taking off her pack, leaving it on the ground next to where the split is.

“Kara?” Lena stops her as she’s getting herself into position.

She freezes in position, getting ready to start her ascent. “Yeah?”

“Don’t fall because I won’t catch you, you’d break both of our bodies if I tried.”

“That’s the least romantic thing you could have possibly said,” Kara complains, dragging herself upwards, using her arms and legs to scissor outwards and press against the rock on either side of her to keep herself up.

Alex moves to stand beside Lena, who is fully concentrating on Kara and her climb up the twenty-metre hill, well, more of a giant rock than anything. She’s more nervous about watching Kara do it than she let on, masking her fear with bad humour.

“She’s a good climber, don’t worry too much.”

Lena jumps at the sudden appearance of Alex over her shoulder but quickly schools her features. “I know she is, I don’t have to like it though.”

“I don’t like it either,” Alex says, surprised at how quickly Kara is getting up to the top. She knows Kara is good but she’s really showing off her skills here.

They leave it at that, watching like hawks until Kara is safely over the top, looking away once she’s out of view because it hurts their necks to be looking up for too long.

Since it’s getting later on in the evening now and they won’t have much daylight left they make the decision to pack up for the night. It makes sense to do it now, they can take the time to really get their bearings after coming out of the ravine and there is a great clearing just a couple of minutes’ walk back the way they came.

Lena waits where she is for Kara to come back while Alex takes their packs for them, getting started on the tents and setting up a fire.

About ten minutes after she’d crawled over the top, Lena’s eyes are pinned to the top ledge whole she wonders where her girlfriend has gotten to, causing her to worry because it shouldn’t take long to figure out where they are.

She’s still looking up when a hand touches her shoulder, scaring her to death. “Ooh!” She lets out a breathy sound that causes her cheeks to flush while spinning around, arms raised to fight.

Kara stumbles back from her, not expecting that reaction. “Woah, it’s me. I came down the back, it was just a slow gradient that I could walk, I should have gone up that way, it would have only taken an extra five-minute walk.”

“Of course, there was an easier way.” Lena runs a hand down her face, annoyed for Kara because she’s the one that climbed for no reason. “The others are setting up camp for the night, are you ready to head over to them.”

“We’d better hurry so we can make sure our tent is put up far away from theirs.”

Read 5 more chapters early on Patreon here!

[three-pens]

so how will the freakin prison break arc end? (theory masterpost)

I’ve been having too many thoughts about this arc and how it’s going to end, after all it involves my top 3 favorite characters along with dazai, so I needed to get my thoughts out. Here is my brain-dump of theories and analysis:

Part 1: Dazai and Fyodor

Dazai won’t die in this arc -my first thought. Asagiri hasn’t killed off many characters, (Oda and Aku are the only ones the come to mind) and the ones that he has killed left a huge impact on someone important to them. If I were to take a guess as to whom Dazai would die around (if he does) it would be with the agency or Atsushi alone (for fairly obvious reasons) none of whom he is currently around. This brings me to my next point: if Dazai dies here the agency looses. In chapter 95 Ranpo muses that the battle above ground will be determined by whoever defeats the other. The conclusion to this is that Dazai will not die, on top of that, the agency is already in a very tough spot so if Dazai dies they’re practically done for. Of course these are only a few reasons as to why I don’t think he will die and i’m sure there are far more.

But Fyodor won’t die either- for one we don’t know anything about him really. His true goal, his backstory (not that a character needs one to be compelling, he’s already my second fave lol) not even his ability. But let’s focus on the first item on that list, his true plan, his goals. I don’t believe that Fyodor agrees with Fukuchi’s plan and stuff, I don’t think it’s his goal. For one Fukuchi is all about the magic mind control cube and controlling the world yada yada while Fyodor’s introduction had to do with the book and getting Atsushi in order to get to the book. This VERY INTRIGUING plot line has been pretty much dropped in the wake of Fukuchi. This plot line is where I think Fyodor will shine, we clearly haven’t seen his full potential, his true plan or how far he will truly go in order to achieve HIS goals. This is why he can not and will not die in this arc. There’s also the contrasting fact that if Fyodor wins (aka lives) and Dazai dies, the agency pretty much looses (basically what I said in Dazai’s section above) and that wouldn’t really work. 

Now that we’re done with our two opponents we have to talk about the main man, the enigma, my absolute favorite character of them all, the cause of this whole predicament…

Part 2 Electric Boogaloo: Nikolai Gogol

Let me just start this off by saying that yes this man is my favorite character, but god, his plan is his downfall (aka it makes no sense). Let’s say Dazai wins, good for everyone! Agency gets their Dazai back and enacts a masterful strategy to defeat Fukuchi once and for all, and Gogol got rid of his dearest friend without killing him! Yippie freedom! But we also have to take into account what he said to Sigma after he rescued him. He said he needed Sigma with him in order to figure out Fyodor’s ability, something that hasn’t really happened and wouldn’t if Dazai wins. Now in the event of Fyodor winning, uh then Nikolai’s plan literally didn’t really work? He’d have to come up with another scheme to attempt to get Fyodor in a situation that would get him killed and with enough of those, I think it would just kinda prove that he’s not free in that he would be in a constant loop of trying to kill Fyodor to prove that he doesn’t have feelings for him, which would prove he clearly does. A paradox if you will. His plan doesn’t really work for any intended outcome. But his emotions, his goals, his feelings, those are where my theories come from.

So the conclusion, neither Fyodor nor Dazai  will die in this arc, and who is the only one who can make it so they don’t die? Nikolai Gogol. Because we haven’t talked about the most important part, and most intriguing part of his plan: the poison. Which brings us to…

Part 3: Let’s get into the theories

I’ve come up with three major theories, with a few smaller ones I’ll list towards the end. Now let’s get into the theories!

Theory 1: There was no poison. They injected themselves with something that does nothing to them or something harmless or whatever- just nothing lethal. This works for a number of reasons, it wouldn’t make Nikolai the direct killer of Fyodor (something he clearly cares about I’d say even more than actually KILLING him as it proves he isn’t actually free), and more than killing Fyodor it creates the opportunity for Fyodor to BE killed. 

If this is true I predict that the breakout will proceed as usual, both Fyodor and Dazai outmaneuvering eachother at every turn and eventually when they reach the top they figure it out and have a stand-off and eventually go their separate ways with the promise of another matchup. Another option is that Dazai reaches the top first and leaves without knowing if Fyodor is dead or not. 

Theory 2: There will be two vials of antidote at the top. This introduces a variety of situations. For Gogol it works as in he would never directly kill Fyodor as there was always an antidote waiting for him at the top (so if he dies it must be Dazai’s fault!) this doubles as it really actually proves he cares enough about Fyodor to not really let him die (the double sidedness of this is very in character for him I think). 

As for the situations: whoever gets to the top first can do a bit of blackmailing, only giving the other the antidote in exchange for something, this could be a very interesting concept that could come back to haunt the other in the future. 

They could also get there at the same time and either mad dash for the antidotes (ending most likely with the situation above) or they both get their own antidotes and walk away from eachother in a sort of stand-off way, with a thinly veiled threat or whatever.

Theory 3: Dazai wins, Nikolai can’t stand the fact that Fyodor lost or smth and gives him the anitdote before he can die. This one is pretty silly I’d say but it could work. Dazai gets out and administers the antidote and leaves without knowing if Fyodor is TRULY dead but he has more pressing matters to attend to. Nikolai, unable to accept that both Fyodor LOST and the fact that Fyodor will be dying pretty directly by him (by the poison that HE gave Fyodor) and in turn gives him an antidote. He could justify this to himself in a number of ways that I won’t list (if you wanna hear some ideas just ask in the comments). I’m the end he ultimately comes to the conclusion that his plan failed but maybe Sigma found out Fyodor’s ability in the chaos and he starts planning another scheme. Who knows, there’s a lot of ways this theory could go so that’s why I really like it.

Smaller theories: 

a. The reverse of Theory 3, Gogol comes to Dazai and gives him the antidote as he realizes that Dazai is the only one who can truly outmaneuver and kill Fyodor in order for him to be free.

b. A spin-off of Theory 1: There was no poison but the “antidote” at the top is a lethal poison. This doesn’t really make sense because one of them would die but I just thought it would be interesting from a Gogol perspective. A sense of randomness so that whoever “wins” (hopefully Fyodor) actually looses. In his pov his faith in Fyodor’s winning would be his faith in Fyodor’s death. 

2b. Same thing, there’s a vial of “antidote” that’s actually poison, but this time nobody uses it. Because they’re too smart or whatever.

c. Nikolai just straight up changes his mind about needing to kill Fyodor for his freedom and just saves him (aka silly goofy times)

Conclusion(ish):

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed my theories :)))))

[purplesurveys]

1690

1.) What did you do last Friday night? Do you have any plans for the upcoming Friday night? Watched a few news features on the Titanic wreck submarine; played Rhythm Hive because apparently the game went through a major overhaul and looks and plays completely differently now; and spent nearly the entire rest of the evening watching both old and new Smosh videos because Anthony coming back is the best news that could’ve come out this week. 2.) When does spring break start for you? We don’t have that concept here as we don’t even have that season here.

3.) Do you have anything planned for June so far? The eventful part of my June is over now; I’ve seen Yoongi, been to Thailand, been to Malaysia, walked 15,000 steps for two weeks straight...the only thing left to do is to reclaim my time at home and rest up.

4.) What is the weather like right now? It’s a little warm this morning but I’m not dying. One thing I picked up from my Thailand trip is to never fucking complain about Philippine weather ever again LOL – I thought it was humid enough here, but the moment I stepped out of Bangkok’s airport I was slapped in the face with air that was like, twice, thrice as heavy. The daily weather made the Philippines suddenly feel like Antarctica.

5.) What song are you listening to? I’m not listening to music and rarely do so when I take surveys because I end up getting distracted and never finishing any of these.

6.) Name all the people that you talked to today. Online, through texts and in person. Mom, dad, sister, the Grab rider who did my McDo delivery at around 1 AM earlier. Oh I also talked to a work-related person this morning, but fortunately I’m not leading the event so I just went on Viber to answer a question she had.

7.) Do you know anyone who self-harms? I really hope I don’t; but at this stage in mine and my loved ones’ lives it’s great to see everyone flourishing and happy and as far as I know, the people that I know who used to do it don’t anymore.

8.) If you have a science class, who did you last talk to in that class? I haven’t been in a classroom since pre-pandemic 2020.

9.) What did you eat for lunch today? I’m having leftover kimbap from two weeks ago! I was struggling to find food in the fridge so I opened every single Tupperware we had in there only to find out that nobody has touched the kimbap I got :)))) Feeling pretty giddy ngl, it’s my favorite Korean food hehe.

10.) If you were president, which one would you legalise first: abortion, gay marriage or marijuana? Not in the choices, but divorce. Then abortion, then gay marriage, then I don’t really care for marijuana.

11.) What are your parents’ names and what do they do for a living? My mom’s an admin secretary in a hotel and my dad’s an executive sous chef.

12.) Do you have any siblings? What are their names, age and grade they are in? Don’t you think you’re being a little too nosy? Anyway, one is 23 and is already working; the other is 20 and a freshman in college.

13.) Do you know a schizophrenic person? I don’t.

14.) Do you have a threewords.me account? I don’t think I’ve ever heard of that.

15.) Who were you last in a car with and where did you go? That was with Celeste and I was just taking her home because no driver was accepting her Grab booking.

16.) Aren’t you excited for the 4th season of Jersey Shore?! I was never an avid watcher. I watched a few episodes of the first season but I was 11 and immediately knew I wasn’t supposed to be watching something like it, lol. 

17.) Did you ever watch Sailor Moon? If so, who is your favourite? No I don’t like anime.

18.) Have you seen the game show “Baggage”? Nope, haven’t heard of it.

19.) Name the last 3 people you kissed and list one nice thing about each one. I’ve only kissed one person but as for a nice thing about her, uh... she’s nice to her sisters? Idk.

20.) Have you ever had cranberry vodka? No. Sounds nasty.

21.) When was the last time you felt EXTREMELY depressed? Why is that? I go through low periods quite regularly, but if you wanna go with EXTREME depression then I’d have to take you back to late 2020 to early 2021. They were terrible days but I do fondly look back on that period as the moments before BTS dragged and hurled me into their world.

22.) Don’t you just want to move out of your parents’ home already? It’d be cool if I do but I’m not in a rush. The average pay here makes it impossible to have your own place in your 20s to early 30s anyway.

23.) Are you friends with a Conner? No, that’s an extremely foreign-sounding name where I’m from. The only Conners you’ll ever find here would be tourists.

24.) Would you ever dye your hair pink? Nah.

25.) Who was the last person to kiss your forehead? No clue.