#the flowers r up in my room being dried

[yunolic]

so… this was my week ^_^ on valentine’s day my bf asked be for a pc of myself because he saw me doing it with my ones of yuno and asked me why 😭‼️he took one of my holders but .. atleast they know he’s taken idk

[rueclfer]

heyy there can i request some more touya headcannons? i really enjoy your way of picturing him because it’s just so canon and he’s kinda a lovely dick y’know. whatever comes to ur mind. thank u so much!!

weelll since you gave me so much freedom here r some touya as a housemate hcs ANNDD a moodboard bc i enjoy the visualization <3 since we talked abt this the other day too !! (i yapped so hard here sry sry this is so indulgent)

bakugou's and sero's version too hehe

housemates // touya todoroki

touya hates the idea of living with a complete stranger or one of his siblings, so what other option does he have other than forcing his best friend (crush) on a lease with him?

the newfound freedom definitely puts him on his ass for a few weeks. barely sleeps. eats like shit. trash is scattered everywhere. several unpacked boxes. it stays like this until fuyumi comes over to check our the place and gives you two a hard scolding to get your shit together.

more often than not, you'd end up waking up on the couch with your legs sprawled out across his lap and his upper half leaned over the couch arm rest in deep sleep. staying up so late was probably one of his favorite things about living together. being able to talk as loud as you wanted, watch movies late into the night, look over the city from your balcony- he found solitude in existing with you.

if he wasn't already codependent before moving in together, just know his ass will be GLUED TO YOU. you'd be doing work in your room and he'd barge in and flop down on your bed without a word. maybe he'd gotten a bit too comfortable.

if he's feeling extra annoying that day, he'd bring in his guitar and amp and keep asking you to rate his riffs until you entirely give up on work and give him some attention.

is it obvious his love language is quality time? not only that, gift giving too. he's like a fucking crow.

"look what i found. it's a rock. for you."

makes him soooo giddy to see your display of the rocks, feathers, and dried up flowers he picked up for you on his walk. sometimes you'd come home and there'd be a new addition to the ever growing collection.

ofc you'd return the energy in a different way. touya will not cook for himself. ever. he eats like shit as an internal rebellion against the healthy diet he was forced upon as a kid, but you will not allow that boy to rot himself from the inside out!! he can expect several tupperwares of portioned out meals with notes attached to the lids if you know he'd be home all day by himself.

"to t <3. if you don't eat every last bite i'll find out and it'll hurt my feelings and i might combust into flames or something idk don't risk it!"

i can also imagine him holding back tears whenever you ever come into his room to hand him a bowl of cut up fruit. the first time you do it he'd be speechless like jaw dropped taken aback. has he ever felt love like this??? i think not.

despite all of the kind gestures, he's still touya todoroki. hides your keys if you annoyed him that morning by rushing him in the bathroom and makes you a few minutes late to class/work. chronic door slammer. pisses with the door wide open. no sense of privacy and do not gaf to knock. always locking himself out -> i feel strongly about this like imagine coming home after a long day and he's sitting out in the hallway with a pouty face waiting for you hehehe.

i don't think he'd realize this crush until a few months after you've moved in together. how could he when you two practically already act and bicker like an old married couple?

yes- peanut butter belongs in the fridge. no- it doesn't. stop leaving your socks everywhere. you forget to flush again. stop slamming the doors. you ate my chips, didn't you? don't lie. did you really need to put the mugs up that high? (he does it on purpose, and tightens the lid to every jar too.)

it wasn't until one late evening when he comes home to find you frantically mixing a doughy substance in a large metal bowl. you never bake, but you have your own oven now, so why not?

"god, finally. help me, my arms hurt." you groan, shoving the bowl in his hands. "i think i fucked up."

he sees the hurricane aftermath of your kitchen- flour everywhere, egg shells left on the counter, every single jar imaginable opened and scattered around. he could be teasing you about the mess, but god you looked so beautiful with that stupid wrinkle in between your eyebrows as you read over the recipe, and the streaks of flour across your pant leg from wiping your hands, and the way you swipe away the stray pieces of hair falling in your face with the back of your hand- oh fuck.

he thinks he's falling in love with you.

he swallows it, but he starts acting kinda weird around the apartment.

like he's.... avoiding you?

living with his best friend whom he just so happens to develop a crush for, would eat him alive. he locks himself in his room and chain smoke out his window while he's stressing the fuck out. he told you he'd stop smoking, but he's sure you'd understand the need for it right now. he hopes you can't smell it.

i also think he'd be a stress cleaner lmaaoo he cannot sit still with his thoughts for too long, so the headphones are ON and blasting and he'll definitely use that as a scapegoat + the loud ass vacuum for ignoring you if you try to talk to him while he's on this cleaning frenzy.

you think he's sick LMAO imagine the pain he feels when you come knocking on his door and calling out that you're leaving a bowl of soup and cough medicine outside his door for him. he doesn't tell you that yeah he's sick but *not in that way*

lovesick. that boy is lovesick!!!!!!

how do you avoid your housemate while you figure out how to control your feelings?

he confesses via note that he leaves on the kitchen counter. really simple tbh nothing too extravagant, but he signs off by telling you that he's staying crashing at fuyumi's for a couple days.

you text him a string of obscenities to get his ass back home and he does (he's scared of you).

he CAANNOOTT talk about his feelings in an adult way. he is sitting on the complete opposite side of the couch, twiddling his thumbs, and staring down at his feet like a child while you reread his confession note out loud to him. you find his discomfort hilarious but endearing. he finds you unbearably insufferable.

jesus the amount of times in that apartment where he would storm off to his room whenever you two got in an argument or you pissed him off...old habits die hard, you guess, because this isn't the todoroki household anymore and you aren't scared to lose that deposit and kick a door down.

once you corner him and get him to open up about his feelings the air in the room suddenly shift!! the clouds are clearing and the sun is shining woooowww look at what good communication can do.

sharing an apartment with your BOYFRIEND is no different than sharing one with your best friend. i think he'd like to keep your separate bedrooms to have your own space, but you'll rarely sleep apart.

so! many! new! traditions!

helping him dye his hair on the first saturday of every month. biweekly horror movie marathons. counting the communal piggy bank ever couple months. trying new takeout spots until you find THE spot for every category- chinese, pizza, ramen, etc etc.

and finally, an everlasting mark on your first apartment together: a small carved out heart around your initials left on the inner corner of a kitchen cabinet done with his pocket knife on a random weekday evening while you two are cooking dinner together.

-

touya tag: @moonchild701 @kaldurahms-lover @themultifandomgirl @devilslittlehelper @porusuniverse @ratatellie @katbug37 @ggriwm

[xuchiya]

"As long as with you" || jeong yunho

| genre: fluff. fluff. fluff | mentions: dislike. rain.

  your entire body shakes when you see clouds form and grey hues were amongst them. you have been a total rainy weather kid from the beginning, you were thrilled to be under the heavy or light rain, just to feel the coldness of the water drop down from the sky.

"yuyu~ it's gonna rain! it's gonna rain!" if an imaginary tail can be seen, yunho would have noticed how it swishes side by side, excitedly. He can hear from the couch how you were squealing when the sky rumbled while he crumbled deeply on the cushion.

you seem to love the weather; yunho seems to be the opposite. He threads to it. He does not like how the blue sky disappears behind those thick grey clouds, it's like consuming the entire world with its darkness.

Now, yunho does not fear darkness nor the weather, it's just not soothing his taste. He likes sunshines, he likes when the sun creates a blissful feeling that it calms him down that he will see this again tomorrow, the very next day and everyday.

“Here it comes!” You cheered, sliding the window door open. The wind immediately greeted you, making the curtains sway beside you. Unbeknownst to you, Yunho stood up quickly before you could step out and enjoy the rain, he had closed it shut, shutting down your excitement.

Staring, then blinking at the sudden actions of Yunho, “Ah-Ah Yunho?”, you were so blinded by excitement it took a while for you to notice his pale face. Your eyes widen. Completely abandoning the rain plan, you sat Yunho down on the couch.

You run a hand on his hair while your other hand circles his palm, “Oh Yunho~” He shakes his head, “No no, I’m okay darling. I’m just scared you’ll hurt yourself out there.”

You smile at him, squeezing his hand, “Of course I won’t but I know that is not the only thing that … scares you.” Yunho does not like talking about his dislike of rain. He didn’t not have any phobia of them nor traumatic childhood memories, it’s just the way it is scary that he won’t be able to see the bright blue sky again.

Shakily, Yunho nodded, “I do not like rain. I never like them, maybe because they rain too hard they cause so much calamity in places or because they pour down so much that it makes me hope less and less that this will be my everyday mood and I do not like it.”

You were unaware of his dis-likeness towards the weather you loved so much, maybe because you grew up loving the only weather that sent calmness around you. The sun is your enemy, you hated how hot it was, how it burnt your skin and almost dried all your favorite plants and flowers planted on your backyard yet by the looks of it, Yunho loved the bright sunlight.

It took a minute, between you two, you just realized how opposite you two were. Hence Yunho being portrayed as the golden retriever and loved absolute sunshines, they were also scared of things too. They retreat to their spots that calms them down.

Taking his hand again, urging him to stand up, “Come on.” Yunho was confused until he was dragged inside your shared room and dressed him up in a raincoat, a bucket rain hat. You took off his socks and plunged them into soft rain boots. 

You giggle, “So cute.” before taking him back towards the sliding window door that Yunho eyes widen, looking at you then towards the rain. You giggle running outside to which you howled and jump, watching as the rain drench from your head down to your feet while he stood still inside.

His heart thumps but then he realises that there’s nothing to fear. It just dawned on him, he did not like the rain, you do not like the sun yet here you both were loving each other despite resembling both you do not like. Yunho loves you despite liking darkness while you love Yunho despite loving the breeze sunshine.

Opposites do attract but they worked out.

As Yunho slowly urges himself to step outside, he removes the rain hat as he takes a step out of the door, removing the boots before he unbuttons the rain coat before running outside. The cold raindrops fell on his cheeks, the wind blowing on his drench skin yet it tickled him.

You turn around when you hear a giggle, your eyes widen when you see Yunho— not wearing all of the rain coat set; rather you watch how the water had drained all of the dryness of his clothes. The rain poured down on him, his hair was sticking to his forehead yet it made him more beautiful.

“Yunho— EEK!” You felt your stomach leaning on his shoulders as he placed you there and spun around. You hold onto his shirt while you chuckle, “Yunho!”

You dance, run on the streets, laugh and giggle. You never thought Yunho would overcome his own dis-likeness towards rain this fast. He seems to enjoy it as much as he loves the sunshine. You were distracted with the thought of him when you felt a warm hand on your waist and pulled close to a broad chest, looking up Yunho is already smiling on you.

“Care for another dance darling?” You chuckle, placing your arms around his neck. Swaying gently even with no music, Yunho leads you to dance rhythmically. You look up at him, to catch him already staring softly at you.

“What?” He shakes his head, leaning down to chase a soft kiss on your lips before pulling away, “I think I found my new favorite.”

You raised an eyebrow, tilting your head to the side, “What is it?” 

He looks up, the raindrop slowly splitting on his face and cascades down to his neck before gazing at you, pulling you close to him, “As long as I’m with you, I love the rain.”

[chamomiletealeaf]

❄️ Baby It's Cold Outside ❄️

When you, a barista at a cozy coffee shop is on the closing shift, a familiar face walks in just as you’re about to get badly snowed in from an unexpected snow storm, leaving you with no choice but to stay the night, a café couch, and the company of Simon Riley.

wc: 4,184

a/n: So sorry this took so long ugh! So much has been happening recently with my birthday last week, Christmas, and some mental health issues. But! I'm doing better! And writing always helps. This was super fun to write and I hope you all enjoy! Happy Holidays everyone! <3

Warnings: None! Avoid reading if you don't want to be smothered with super adorable fluffiness.

“Tonight’s forecast will be a high of 35 and a low of 20. Expect up to five inches of snow tonight. Stay safe, and stay warm. Happy Holidays!” The weather woman on the TV cheerily smiled as she gave the weather report. You listened to the TV as you wiped down a tiny circular table the only two customers just got up from in the little coffee shop you worked in, desperately trying to scrub away a dried coffee stain left due to the lack of a coaster used despite it being provided at the table. 

*spritz spritz*

You spray the table again, sighing as you finally wipe away the chestnut colored ring stain. Five inches of snow tonight meaning less customers, or at least you hoped. You loved your job, but man were you tired. It was a holiday weekend after all. You’ve been working at the little coffee shop on the corner of the city for what seemed like ages now. You enjoyed the ambiance of the place. How comforting and cozy it was no matter what time of year, the warmness of the fairy lights illuminating the room, the ring of the bell above the door when people walk in, the quiet chatter of customers enjoying a little break in their day, the soft clanks of dishes and cups being placed down or picked up, and the slight buzz of the coffee machines whirring. It all became something so familiar to you. Comforting in a way. Sure there was always the occasional rude customer that sometimes made you want to cry in the break room or burst out laughing with your coworkers in the back, but that made your job all the more interesting. What made up for it was the amount of good customers you had. Super kind regulars who always tipped well and shared their lives with you, some even inviting you places with the group they were with. 

But your favorite customer was quite the opposite of the other chatty regulars. You only ever saw him a few months at a time, and you never caught his name, but you always recognized him and remembered his order, always patiently awaiting his return. He was a big, tall man. Intimidating even, with light blonde hair that was always a bit messy as if he had just pulled a hat or mask off. You noticed the slightest sliver of tattooed skin on his left forearm when he would reach over to hand you a tip or to pick up the Earl Grey tea he always got with just a little bit of vanilla creamer in it. You always tried to make his orders look pretty to brighten his day, and for him to know it was special from you, so you always put whatever mini flower from the plants in the café you took such good care of in it. You hoped he would notice that his tea was the only one with the little purple flower in it. He only said a few words but tipped very well and would wait his turn to be served by you which you always thought was strange, since other baristas' lines were free. He never shared anything about himself other than small talk you would make with him, but he seemed happy to engage in your conversations due to the slight upturn of his lips when he listened to you talk. He was stealthy and quiet, like a lone wolf keeping distance from other animals, and the way he lurks in the shadows, observing like a ghost. His tired, soft, sweet, honey brown eyes never left yours as you spoke and you swore you could find the faintest hint of relief, no, comfort in them when he listened to ramble. You sometimes got lost in the way his light brown freckles on his nose, cheeks, and around his eyes looked like constellations and you wondered if any of them actually matched any. I mean, he did look like he was sent from the heavens above where the stars lived anyway. He was just that gorgeous. You wouldn’t be surprised if he was a speck of stardust turned into a human, with him being so pretty and all. He was kind of like a shooting star too. If you look away for a second, you might miss him. But if you do catch a glimpse of him once in a blue moon, you can’t help but feel like the universe is on your side. 

There wasn’t anyone left in the coffee shop but you after the last two customers left. It was close to 8 pm. The shop closed at 10 but considering the outdoor conditions, maybe you would be able to close a little earlier and get home before you wouldn’t have a way out. You finally finish wiping down the tables and pushing in all the chairs and take a second to look outside as you make your way back behind the counter. Gray dark skies darken the little part of the world you’re in and white flurries begin to fall, creating a light blanket of snow muffling the sounds of the earth the way a pair of fuzzy earmuffs might. As you watch the snowflakes fall from the inside of the café, mesmerized by their glistening, you hear the door chime. You snap out of your trance and scurry behind the counter, not looking in the direction of the door trying to make it look like you were working. Still not looking towards the customer, back towards the counter, you turn on the coffee machine and greet whoever walked in.

“Hi, welcome! How are y-”

You turn around and stop in your tracks when you see him. Blonde hair disheveled as always and sullen eyes looking ever so slightly relieved, cheery even with the way you catch the subtle glimpse of what can best be described as a hopeful twinkle in his pretty brown eyes. 

“Hi love.” The sound of his deep Manchester accent floods your body with warmth and you can’t help but smile.

“Well, look who it is. I haven’t seen you around here in ages! Started to think you found another shop.” You giggled, leaning on the counter in front of you subconsciously bringing yourself closer to him. 

“How could I? Could never find service like yours anywhere else. No one could make my tea as good as you can either.”

You look down and smile abashedly, flustered by his kindness and a bit shocked at his talkativeness. You figured it was because of the privacy you two had alone in the café.

“I’m so sorry to show up with the weather like this, but I just got back from work yesterday and I’ve been missing a bit of warmth.”

“Oh don’t apologize! I always have time for you.” You smile at him and you both look at each other for a bit, both getting lost in the other’s gaze.

You snap out of it first, jumping back from the counter to turn to put the kettle on. 

“Come, sit! I’ll make your usual.” You gesture to the bar stool at the counter and he pulls a chair out and watches you make his tea.

“Earl Grey with just a splash of vanilla creamer still, yeah?”

He chuckles and crosses his arms on the counter leaning on them.

“I don’t know how you do it.”

You smile to yourself, back still turned to him as you prepare the loose leaf tea to steep. You’re glad he’s finally opening up to you a bit.

The weather woman on the TV comes back on, gaining both of your attention. You turn your head from the tea kettle to the TV above the counter to the right, leaning back a bit to see and Simon looks too. 

“Well it looks like we’re getting more snow than initially expected tonight. From now until early morning, expect blizzards with over ten inches of snow. Stay safe and warm everyone!”

You and Simon look at each other after the weather woman finishes and the TV goes to a commercial break.

“Damn, I should take this to go then. Don’t wanna keep you open too long. They got no one else helping you close? Would hate to have you drive home in this.” He says.

You panic for a second hearing his plans to leave the shop so you can close and your eyes widen.

“No no! It’s- it’s ok.” You say a bit loudly.

“If anything, I’ll take the subway. I don’t live too far from here.” You reassure him.

He frowns at the thought of you traveling home alone.

“Well, maybe I’ll walk you then. It’s the least I can do to thank you for your hospitality.”

“I’d like the company.” You say with a smile.

You pour his tea into the cup and go to place it in front of him, but pull back at the last second.

“Oh wait! I almost forgot, don’t drink it yet!” You say as you jog over to the flower plant by the coffee machine, picking a tiny purple flower off of it. You bring it over to the cup of tea in front of him and place it in.

“I take care of the plants myself. Don’t worry, they’re clean.” You smile and he looks at the little flower floating around in his tea.

“You know, I only put flowers in your tea.” You giggle, and he looks up.

“Thank you. It’s lovely.” He lets himself smile back at you, heart melting at the way you’re so giddy and happy to serve him and treat him so special that he doesn’t even notice the storm outside, and neither do you. 

You do notice, however, that you never caught the man’s name.

“You know, I never got your name, after all the times you’ve been here.” You say to him.

He takes a sip of his tea, and hesitates for a second, thinking about whether or not to tell you his real name. You don’t know about his job, or who he is at all. No one other than the Task Force does. He wouldn’t want to put you in any danger. He’s already risking enough going out in civilization without his balaclava, figuring that it would attract more attention due to him sticking out being the only one with a mask on. But as he places his cup down on the saucer and looks up at your wide, patient eyes awaiting his answer, what kind of person would he be to let you down and kill the anticipation in your eyes, let alone lie to you? After all you’ve done for him? All the kindness you’ve shown? Maybe just a first name would be ok. After all, anyone could find out his first name from anything really. He opens his mouth then closes it, then opens it again.

“Simon.” He answers. “My name is Simon.”

Your heart flutters and melts like a snowflake falling on salted pavement at the sound of his name coming from his voice. 

“Simon.” You repeat back smiling. “Simon Simon Simon.” You chant in a sing-songy voice, getting used to the name. “That’s pretty. It suits you.” You say, cheeks starting to hurt from the smile plastered over your face.

Simon blushes at the sound of his name falling from your lips, finding himself wanting to hear it more often.

“What’s your’s love?” Simon asks.

You tell him your name and it was his heart’s turn to flutter and melt. He smiles at you and whispers your name to himself, familiarizing himself with it. He’s never felt so warm before, and he was quite shocked with the feeling, almost alarmed at it. He straightens up in his chair to try and stop himself from losing himself in you.

“That’s beautiful.” He smiles again, and takes a sip of his tea again.

A bang on the glass of the window on the other end of the shop grabs both of your attention. You both turn your heads and look outside, forgetting about the storm out there.

“Geez I forgot it was a blizzard out there.” You say worriedly. A gust of wind picked up a fallen tree branch and thrusted it against the window pane which caused the noise. 

Simon notices the worry in your voice and expression and an instinct to comfort and protect you takes over his being. He’s afraid of it. It’s unfamiliar, but he can’t help it, especially not when your pretty face looks anything but happy and the way your baby hairs messily poke out from your ponytail.

“Let me help you clean up. I don’t reckon anyone else coming by tonight. I’ll walk you to the subway.” Simon says, almost too enthusiastically and who are you to say no to those warm, honey brown eyes. 

But as you open your mouth to answer, the power goes out. Causing you to yelp instead of speak, leaving you and Simon in the darkness, both snapping your heads up at the ceiling to try and find where the light bulbs were that just flickered out. 

“Well, closing is gonna be a bit more difficult tonight than expected.” You say.

“Shit.” Simon says. 

There isn’t any light except from the glow of the snow from outside, but you can still make out Simon’s strong features, still looking so handsome, even in the dark. 

“There’s a fireplace by the couch. It’s gas powered so it should work.” You leave from behind the counter, stumbling around to find your way over to it. You feel around the mantle and sigh in relief when you find the switch. You switch the fireplace on illuminating the coffee shop and Simon gets up from his seat to walk over to the window, leaving his tea on the bar top. He looks outside and you make your way over to his side, and look out the window too. 

“The snow is too high to open the door, let alone walk in.” Simon says.

“Simon?” You say in a quiet voice.

He looks down at you, and you never really realized the height difference between you two, considering he’s normally sitting down at a table when you are talking to him.

“Yeah hun?”

“I don’t think either of us are going home tonight.” You say and wrap your arms around yourself due to the sudden chill in the room from the power outage. 

Simon looks out the window again, thinking of how to answer, or what to do next. Then, he laughs to himself, then looks back down at you.

“Unfortunately, I think you might be right love.” He says, and the pet name immediately warms your insides up again. 

You both stand there staring out the window a bit, unsure of what to do next.

“Well.” You say, breaking the silence. “Might as well get comfortable then. Looks like we’re staying the night.” You blush to yourself at the thought of spending the night with Simon. You also think to yourself how you’re asking for a raise when you get out of this mess. You move to sit on the couch in front of the fireplace, and Simon follows, sitting on the opposite side, nervous to get too close to you. You take off your apron and let out your hair, and Simon can’t help but watch you and how your features become more defined with the light and shadows created by the luminosity of the fire. You looked so beautiful and Simon has never felt so safe and happy. It’s weird to him, considering he barely knew you at all, and he’s not used to feeling this way, but he lets himself, just this once. 

“So.” You say, leaning back into the couch, taking off your shoes and pulling up your legs to sit criss crossed. 

“What do you do for work?” You turn and ask him, and his smile fades a bit. He turns his gaze towards the fire and you notice the change in his demeanor and you regret asking. 

“Can’t exactly talk about it.” Simon says, remembering that, right, he had a job. A scary and difficult one. 

“Oh. Sorry.” You apologize, and turn your gaze to the fire as well. 

Simon notices the embarrassment and regret in your voice and he snaps his head back to you.

“Oh no no it’s ok love. Not your fault.”

His reassurance makes you feel a little better and you regain some of your confidence.

“Well, you already know what I do for work.” You joke. 

Simon chuckles at that and leans back in his seat, looking back at the fire, getting more comfortable. 

“That I do.” He says, and he spreads his legs and puts an arm on the ledge of the couch behind him, making you blush since his arm was almost touching you. 

“And you do a damn good job at it.” He smiles.

You look at him looking at the fire and you notice the reflection of the fire in his eyes and how well the warm colors compliment each other. You wished you could stay here like this forever, just looking at him, just being with him, even if you barely knew him at all. There was something so domestic about Simon. Something so… homely.

Even with the fire going, and despite the warmth Simon made the inside of your body feel, the cold air of the dark coffee shop began to prick at your skin once again, causing you to wrap your arms around yourself as you and Simon sat in a comfortable silence staring at the fire as if it were telling you both it’s deepest darkest secret. Simon notices you curl in on yourself and he turns his head towards you.

“Here.” He says after a second, analyzing why you curled up, and he begins to take off his fleece lined cargo jacket. 

“Oh no I’m ok.” You lean away from him a little, not wanting him to sacrifice his comfort for yours.

“You’re shivering love. It’s ok, here, take it.”

You reach out and grab the heavy jacket and place it over your shoulders. It was big, heavy, warm, and smelled like him. Like mahogany teakwood and firewood that once burned but went damp from rainfall, leaving only clouds of smoke as evidence of it ever being set aflame. He smelled earthy, musky, but nice and clean with a hint of raw sweetness like a jasmine flower, and you drowned in it.

“Thank you.” You said shyly, flustered at how intimate wearing his jacket was.

“Looks better on you than it does me.” Simon says, and you giggle. 

You look at each other and smile for the millionth time that night and scooch a little bit closer to him and he does the same. The blaze of the gas fireplace lighting up the little corner of the coffee shop you two sat in with a low orange glow. 

You glanced out the window which reminded you of the storm outside. All of a sudden, you remember something.

“Oh my god!” You gasp and stand up, startling Simon a bit.

“What is it?” Simon asks, a worried expression on his face.

“I completely forgot oh my god.” You say as you throw his jacket off and scurry off the couch to a closet hidden away in a tiny hall for the employees to walk through to get to the break room next to the kitchen. Simon turns his body and watches you run away, hearing your shuffling about in the hallway.

You feel around the closet and finally feel a cardboard shoebox.

“Ah, yes.” You whisper to yourself as you pull the box down and search in the dark through it. You feel what you’re looking for and you smile to yourself, picking it up out of the box and holding it to your chest and you place the shoebox back into place and begin your way in the dark back to the couch.

“Everything alright back there?” Simon asks, body still turned towards you and you emerge from the dark back into the light of the fire, something small and rectangular in your hands. 

“I remembered that we have this for emergencies.” You say, and pull the item away from your chest, presenting it to Simon as you take your place back next to him on the couch, sitting on his jacket. 

I thought this would be helpful so we don’t have to drain the battery on our phones.

In your hands was a tiny, black, battery powered AM/FM radio.

Simon looks at the item in your hands and smiles at how cute you are. You would have no way of knowing Simon’s expertise when it comes to radio and communication especially in a dire situation. He finds your enthusiasm so adorable and he lets you have your moment, especially when you look so proud of yourself.

“Smart.” Simon says with a smirk.

“The batteries should be fully charged, since we never used it before.” You say as you fidget with the tiny box, trying to find the switch to turn it on.

“Who knew we would ever have to us-” The sound of static abruptly interrupts you and you jump a bit.

“Ah, there we go.” You say and adjust the dial on the side to find a signal, and the sound of a weather report slowly fades in, drowning out most of the static.

“Blizzards tonight with winds exceeding 40 mph at the least. Power outages have been reported across the city. It’s unsure when the power will come back but live updates will be provided.” You and Simon stare at the radio in your hands and listen to the report with eager ears.

“You know, it’s funny.” You say, speaking over the radio, gaining Simon’s attention. “One of the first things you said to me was that the reason you came by today was because you needed something warm, which is kinda the exact opposite of what’s happening now.” You say with a chuckle. Simon nods his head with a smile.

“Well, I didn’t exactly mean something warm like the temperature love.” He says, and you blush at his reference to what could only mean you, keeping your gaze on the radio in your hands, trying to ignore his eyes boring into you.

You adjust the knob on the radio and switch it to FM, trying to find some music to ease the tension in the air between you two. After a few adjustments and turns, the static fades into soft jazz music and you light up at the lovely, rich sound of the saxophone and piano through the tinny sound of the old speaker. You place the radio on the coffee table between the couch and the fireplace and wrap Simon’s jacket around yourself again. The warmness of him, the fire, and the relaxing jazz music made your head fuzzy, and you could feel yourself getting tired. You move in closer to Simon and he puts his feet up on the coffee table, crossing one ankle over the other. You feel him hesitate a bit before he places an arm around you, securing you by his side.

“Is this ok?” He whispers to you.

“It’s perfect.” You look up at him and whisper back with a smile. “Even though we don’t know how long we’re gonna be stuck here.” You laugh to yourself at the absurdity of the situation, still finding it hard to believe.

Simon hums in agreement, but he doesn’t mind, and neither do you. Not when you two are together like this. You lean your head on Simon’s chest and he turns his body towards you slightly, making himself more comfortable for you. You two hardly knew each other, only the feeling you both got when you were in each other’s presence, but it still felt like you two didn’t know anyone in the world but each other for your whole lives. You let yourself drift off to sleep against Simon’s chest, wrapped in his jacket with the soft light of the fire and slight staticy jazz music from the mini radio, letting yourself leave the stress and worry of the aftermath of being trapped at work for the next day. Simon lets himself drift off to sleep too. The snow is too piled up for anyone to come in or out, and it’s not like you two are completely stranded, so Simon’s survival instincts could be put off for a while. This was a problem to worry about tomorrow. Because right now, all that mattered was the softness Simon was experiencing inside that he never felt before, even if it terrified him. It just felt right. 

And even though Simon’s heart was cold, harsh, and sometimes unforgiving, matching the conditions of the current weather, the only thing that was cold right now, was the world outside the coffee shop on the corner of your little city.

[skeletinmoss]

The curse of the dark Phoenix

Want to say thank you to @lovelivingmydreams not only for being my beta, but actually transforming my simple draft into this beautiful story

Chapter 1: The arch mage's tower

Next

Summary: When investigating the dissapearance of the arch mage, a trio of mages stumble upon a long kept secret that will throw their lives into complete dissaray.

The tower of the arch mage was old, abandoned and yet still breathtakingly majestic.

Moss and vines were creeping up the stone weeds had overrun the once pristinely kept front yard. But stainglass whindows, while covered in dust, still held gorgeous art pieces depicting mind boggling feats. The collored tiles on the damaged roof had faded but still held their eye catching pattern.

The reason it was in such a sorry state is because it’s owner had disappeared nearly 30 years ago. None had dared to enter it for fear of the dangers it might hold.

But finally the consulate had produced three mages powerful and brave enough to face the dangers and discover what had happened.

Arch Mage Noctora had been the most powerful mage to ever grace the magical community. He was an icon, a true legend.

Someone who sacrificed his own health to research the most dangerous brands of magic and teach the magical world about the horrid consequences of dark magic and did whatever he could to protect the public from it’s evils.

Potentially his kindness had finally cost him his life.

Today three of his adherents stood in front of his tower, barely containing their excitement.

They felt truly blessed to be given the honor to enter the great Mage’s home, it was a boyhood dream come true.

“Here we are. About to set eyes on the sanctum of the wisest man to ever wield magic,” the mage dressed in blue robes dotted with silver stars mused.

“The bravest man in recent history,” the man in red robes adorned with golden flowers agreed.

“The kindest soul to grace this planet,” the last of them, wearing lighter blue robes embroidered with bronze animal footprints, sighed.

The trio had been friends ever since they could remember and had been excited to find they all passed the test to find magical potential getting them all a place at the school for magic. And ever since first hearing about the Arch Mage and his great deeds they all agreed they’d be just as great one day.

When they learned off the mystery of his disappearance they wanted nothing more than to be the ones to find him. And now, it seemed that that dream would truly come true.

“Well, no mystery has ever been solved by just standing around. Let’s go!” the red mage insisted, leading the way across the overgrown path, frowning a little bit at the types of plants growing there. They carefully made their way up the stairwell, passing living quarters without a second glance. Agreeing that those should be left for last, and only if the study yielded absolutely no answers.

When they came to the study, they found a right mess. The walls were covered in cabinets and shelves and all were overly full, crates were strewn across the floor also overflowing with trinkets and herbs and scrolls and all sorts of things.

The cleanest place was the desk surprisingly. It stood there covered in dust near the one window in the room. A burnt out candle on the right hand side, along with a dried up inkwell, a mostly finished map an open box with herbs and a verry deliberately closed box right in the middle that pretty much sang “I am important look at me”.

It looked verry old, the wood had a crack running across the length of the lid which was once intricately decorated, but the chipped paint and the rusted chains made it hard to really see what the decoration was meant to represent.

Clearly this was the last thing that had held the arch mage’s attention in this tower, which meant it could be a vital clue to their quest.

The trio looked at each other and gave a determined nod. They had to know what was inside.

Of course the box looked very suspicious and chains rarely meant anything good so they opted to try a hands off method first.

Which meant Logan, in his stary blue robe, stepped forward and used his divination magic to tell him what they would find.

The box glowed blue and then elegant blue letters appeared in the air above it.

“Essence of the mage of a thousand lives,” Logan read out loud.

“Why are these things always so vague?” The red mage sighed impatiently.

Logan ignored his friend and frowned. “Mage of a thousand lives… That has to be the arch mage. It probably refers to the thousands of lives he saved. And essence… The essence of what he was doing…? One thing is for sure. This has to hold a clue. We have to open it no matter the danger. There is far to much to be gained here!” Logan stated determinedly.

“Wow, that was quick,” Patton, their martial caster in light blue, giggled. “Can I?” he offered. His friends both made room for him. He took a breath, focused and with a swift symbol in the air and a focused push towards the box the chains snapped and fell to the side.

Roman, their redclad herbalist stepped forward and opened the box to find a white powder. A lot of it actually. He held it in the light, a bit annoyed at the stained glass window right now.

As an herbalist he could recognize most herbs, minerals and even most finished medicine and potions with just a quick look. But not if the only light he was offered was filtered through reds and greens and blues. Nevermind, he could probably rule out most things by the texture, though he kept a cleansing spell ready just in case it turned out toxic to touch…

The second he ran his fingers through it though he wanted to throw the box away.

The box held no herbs, no minerals, no. Roman knew what these were.

Ashes.

Them being kept in such a box told him that these couldn’t possibly be remnants of burning herbs either. Which meant animal or even more disturbing human remains were in here.

The very act of making such a thing was considered practicing dark magic.

The Arch Mage had banned certain brands of magic or ingredients for the safety of their casters.

Such as changing your body to enhance it or to resemble someone else, both on ethical grounds and the fact that such changes could do irreparable damage to you in the long run.

Animal shifting was allowed so long as these were non magical creatures, again trying to encapsulate the primal magic of such creatures was incredibly dangerous.

The practice of chronomancy was ended mostly because it always required some form of ashes to be used.

Ashes, among other pieces of an animal or human were forbidden.

Anything that lives contains mana, that’s where the magic comes from. And that mana does not perish with the body. When it comes to animals and even certain plants, unleashing that mana by using it in a spell was dangerous. Weak minded mages had lost limbs trying to use a fishbone. The corruption it caused could be lethal!

That was what the Arch Mage’s research had unveiled. That was how he compiled a list of ingredients that were too harmful to the body to be considered to be used.

That was what had weakened his health. What possibly caused his demise.

Roman shook his hand desperately trying to get the ashes off, setting off his cleansing spell.

He felt a tingling sensation, almost warm and pleasant, spread across his fingers. Oh no. Oh no the ashes were reacting to his magic, he was activating the mana…

“We need to get rid of it!” he yelled closing the box and sprinting towards the stairs, whatever he’d just done, he couldn’t let it go off in an enclosed space near his friends.

“What is it!?” his friends called after him sounding confused.

“Ashes!” Roman called heading down the stairs, praying he wouldn’t fall down.

“Sweet stars above, let me survive this,” he whispered under his breath as he almost tripped on the last step and headed outside. The flowers, the ashes could go and fertilize the flowers.

He kicked open the door and shook out the box, watching with a breath of relief as the wind caught them and kindly spread them amongst the flowers.

He was catching his breath as he heard his friends join him.

He tossed the box to the side and let out a laugh. Well he had never gone through so many emotions in such a short amount of time.

“Roman, your hands,” he heard Patton say, his voice soft and trembling with worry.

Roman caught his friend’s eyes and then followed their horrified gaze.

There was still ash on his hand and it was glowing purple.

“Nope, no. I don’t want to hold onto you, go!” he pleaded, shaking his hand again.

He felt a strange pull on his hand toward the field, he let it guide him and watched with horrified fascination as the field where the ashes had landed was alit with a same glow.

What was going on?

A new gust of wind, this one definitely not natural whipped around them and made the ashes rise up in the air in a cloud it spun around and around and Roman felt his hand being pulled forward, in his shock he was powerless to stop himself from following until he was in the middle of it. Roman didn’t like this. The cloud felt alive, he could feel it connecting to him, little specks of his own signature red magic appearing in the purple shine. No. No this was definitely too much magic for him to play with. He was cocky, not crazy.

Roman finally got his bearings and made to step away from the mass, losing his balance in the process and falling backwards. As he looked up he was just in time to see the process come to a close. With a mighty cry that shook Roman and his friends to his core a majestic bird they’d only ever seen pictures off spread it’s wings where the ashes had been. It had gorgeous purple feathers and it looked absolutely heartbreakingly beautiful backlit by the afternoon sun.

“Is that…” Logan whispered.

“It has to be,” Patton agreed.

Roman was at a loss for words. The creature looked down upon him as the last bits of magic faded away, little sparks of red and purple disappearing at last and then it glided towards him and landed on his chest. Amethyst eyes judging him severely.

What the heck?

[princesssarisa]

I'm making my way through the "Donkeyskin" section of Cinderella Tales from Around the World, starting with the versions from Greece, Albania, and Italy.

*In most of these variants, the condition for the father-king's remarriage is either that his bride's finger must fit the late queen's wedding ring or that her foot must fit the queen's shoe. One day, either not knowing about the promise or just not suspecting how far her father will take it, the princess puts on the ring or the shoe and finds that it fits, so her father resolves to marry her.

**As I mentioned in my last post, however, some versions don't have her father want to marry her. In one version, her father is just extremely protective and never lets her leave the castle, so she runs away out of longing for freedom. (Although this is from Andrew Lang's The Grey Fairy Book, so Lang most likely bowdlerized it.) In another, her father betroths her to a rich young man who is really the Devil in disguise, which her fairy governess realizes and alerts her to, but which her father won't believe.

*In different Donkeyskin tales throughout the world, it varies whether the heroine comes up with her gown requests and her disguise by herself or is advised by someone else. These Mediterranean versions tend to give her an advisor: usually her nurse or governess who's secretly a fairy or a good witch, but sometimes a male magician instead, or even the Pope.

*The theme of the three gowns in these variants tends to be this: one gown that looks like the heavens with the sun, the moon, and all the stars on it, one that looks like the sea with all the fishes on it, and one that looks like the earth with every type of flower on it. Several Mediterranean versions of Cinderella also uses this theme for the heroine's gowns.

**Also as in Mediterranean Cinderellas, the heroine sometimes throws coins or jewels behind her when she leaves each ball to distract the prince's servants and prevent them from stopping her.

*Several Italian versions are titled Maria Wood. In some of them, she just wears a wooden dress like the Norwegian Kari Woodencloak. But in others, more interestingly, she encases herself in a full-body suit made of wood, with joints so she can move her limbs, which makes her look like an old woman. Sometimes she sings a funny little rhyme about being "made of wood" when she first introduces herself to the prince or king. This suit also miraculously has room to store her three gowns inside it.

**In other versions, though, she disguises herself in animal skins – e.g. pigskin, rabbit skins, or wolf skin. Sometimes, instead of just passing as a human dressed in skins, she actually masquerades as an animal – a bear, or a horse – although it varies whether she pretends to be an ordinary, non-sapiant animal who stays in the palace yard or a talking animal who works as a scullery maid.

**Giambattista Basile's Il Pentamerone includes a variant, The She-Bear, where the heroine turns herself into a bear by putting a piece of magic wood (given to her by a wise old woman) into her mouth. After she flees, the prince finds her in the forest, and she becomes his pet. The truth is finally revealed when the bear kisses the sick prince, and as she does so, the piece of wood accidentally falls from her lips.

**In another version, called Zuccaccia ("Ugly Gourd"), she disguises herself in a dress covered with strips of dried pumpkin.

**In yet another version, called Pellicotto ("Ugly Skin"), a fairy helps the heroine by magically coating her entire body and face with fur. Then the heroine further disguises herself by putting on male clothes and finds work as the prince's stable-boy. I suspect that "Sapsorrow" from Jim Henson's The Storyteller was partly inspired by this version, since Sapsorrow is likewise completely covered with fur and wears men's breeches in her magical disguise as "the Scraggletag."

*In some versions, she doesn't wear strange clothing or go to work as a servant at all. Instead, she requests a gift of two giant hollow candlesticks or a candelabrum from her father. Then she hides inside one of the candlesticks/the candelabrum, which a servant takes to another kingdom and sells to the prince. Every night when the prince has gone out or is asleep, she emerges and either eats some of his food or tidies his room. This mystifies the prince until he finally spies on the room at night, discovers her, and falls in love. Some similar variants have her hide in a simple wooden chest instead of a candlestick/candelabrum.

*Sometimes she hides her beautiful gowns in a chest, sometimes in three nutshells, or sometimes she has a magic wand with which she makes them appear when she needs them.

*The majority of these versions – and probably the majority from every country, though we'll see if it's true or not – have the prince or king mistreat the disguised heroine. Traditionally, before each of the three balls, she asks to be allowed to go, but he refuses and hits her with an object (often a boot, a shovel, and tongs, though they vary). Then at the ball, when he asks the "beautiful princess" where she comes from, she replies that she's from the land of "Boot," "Shovel," and "Tongs," or whatever the objects were. @adarkrainbow and I have already discussed this recurring theme and how to understand it. In the past, both male-on-female and master-on-servant abuse were more often played for laughs. In this case, assuming that the oral storytellers were mostly commoners, it's arguably social satire at the prince/king's expense (i.e. "Ha ha! Those royals and nobles treat us like dirt, but if we had clothes like theirs they might fall madly in love with us!"), and the princess's trick at the ball can be seen as revenge, sending him on wild goose chases in search of the lands of "Boot," "Shovel," etc. Still, by modern standards, it's not comfortable seeing the heroine treated this way by her future husband.

**Some versions omit this theme, however, and have the prince treat her kindly and see her as a funny little friend. In a few, instead of refusing when she asks to go the three balls, he invites her to the balls, but she pretends to refuse. Zuccaccia is one of these variants: though it keeps the running gag of the prince hitting her with objects, it reimagines them as just light, playful raps amid sibling-like banter.

**One other version has the prince just verbally insult her, and at the balls, when he asks for her name, she replies with the names he called her earlier: "My name is Mud-Scraper," "My name is Blockhead," etc. In yet another, she hits him with the objects each time he refuses to take her to the ball.

*In some versions, at the third ball, the prince/king slips a ring onto the princess's finger, which she later drops into the bread, cake, or soup she sends to him when he becomes sick with love. In others, after the third ball, she sends him food over the course of three days, and each time she drops a golden trinket that she brought from home into the food. Either way, he asks to see the person who made the food, and either she comes undisguised in her beautiful gown, or else he rips off her disguise and reveals the gown underneath it. Or, in a simpler alternative, she asks to take the food to his sickroom herself, and she does so wearing her beautiful gown.

*On her website, though not in this book itself, Heidi Ann Heiner notes that in many Donkeyskin tales (e.g. Perrault's), the father-king gets less blame than he deserves for his incestuous desire and is easily forgiven in the end. That isn't the case in many Italian versions, though: he's clearly portrayed as a villain.

**In several variants, the king is carried away by the Devil as soon as his daughter runs away. In one, he actually sells his soul to the Devil in exchange for the three otherworldly gowns his daughter demands from him, which leads to the Devil claiming his due after the wedding doesn't take place.

**Several other versions follow the heroine's marriage by having the father seek revenge for her refusal to marry him. In an especially grisly literary version, Doralice, the king comes to his daughter's new home in disguise, murders her two children, and then frames her for the crime. For this her husband has her buried up to her chin in the ground to be slowly eaten by worms. But her childhood nurse finally reveals the whole truth to the young king, so Doralice is saved, while her wicked father is tortured to death. In a similar but milder variant, The Deer, the king uses magic to turn his daughter into (of course) a deer; but eventually she meets her husband again during a hunt in the woods and provokes him to shoot her, which breaks the spell. In yet another, the king tries to throw his daughter into a cauldron of boiling oil, only to get caught just in time and be thrown in himself.

@adarkrainbow, @ariel-seagull-wings, @themousefromfantasyland

[nev3rfound]

someone i once knew : b.b - p.3

tony has questions, but he isn’t the only one wanting an explanation (2.6k)

(anything in bold/italics are flashbacks/memories!)

masterlist / permanent taglist

(everything on my blog is my own writing. if it is shared on another page or website without being credited, it has not been approved to be shared by me. all rights reserved.)

PART ONE . PART TWO . PART THREE . PART FOUR . PART FIVE . PART SIX

(also thank you for the insane amount of support for this series! you guys have taken me by such surprise and i am so grateful you’re all invested :) ) 

Tony steps into your suite, trying to subtly notice the changes you’ve made whilst he was gone.

“Look, Tony, if this is about the files I’m really sorry,” You sigh apologetically, catching Tony’s attention as he turns to face you. “sometimes my R’s end up looking like N’s and I didn’t mean for it to look like I’d written Tony Stan-”

Holding his hand up, you stop your rambles as Tony raises a brow. “Y/n, that’s not why I’m here.” Tony interrupts you. “Wait, it said that?” He questions and you weakly nod, but quickly he returns to his original thought process; why he is here in the first place.

“Then, why are you here?” You ask nervously, feeling a pit begin to form in your stomach.

“Nat passed on a message, that you didn’t seem very well.” Tony explains, now pacing around the entrance of your suite whilst you remained still, too still for his liking. “And I overheard a conversation from two super soldiers discussing you.” Tony motions to you, catching sight of your eyes widening.

“I, why would they talk about me?” You question in disbelief, hearing multiple voices run through your mind, some yelling over Tony as he continues to talk to you, but you can only see his lips moving.

“-and that you know them somehow, funny really.” Tony huffs to himself as he walks in the direction of the small kitchen you have, noticing a glass half-filled with a single flower, dried out, dead. “Don’t you think, Y/n?”

The prolonged silence from you catches Tony out as he glances over his shoulder, seeing you stood calmly, tears streaming down your face.

“Y/n?” Tony calls out, carefully nearing you as he waves his hand in front of your eyes, but there’s no response. “FRIDAY? Get Banner for me.”

With a deep exhale, you collapse down to the ground. “I, I, I’m sorry,” You breathe out, coughing loudly on a sob that chokes your throat.

Kneeling down in front of you, Tony eyes your movements carefully. “What’s going on with you, Y/n?” He thinks aloud as you manage to sit upright, clutching your legs to your chest as a look of horror solidifies across your expression.

Bruce opens the door to your suite, looking alert as he notices both you and Tony on the ground.

“Everything okay, Tony?” Bruce asks hesitantly, seeing a level of concern cross Tony’s frown.

“Just, sit still, okay.” Tony instructs you, but you’re barely responsive as Tony walks away, taking Bruce outside of your suite as the door remains slightly ajar.

Rubbing his temples, Tony sighs. “What’s going on with her? Bad day or something?” Bruce jokes, but Tony shakes his head.

“I think she might be a plant.” The tone leaving his voice is enough to remove any humour from Bruce as he straightens up. “Somehow, Steve and Bucky know her, or at least knew her.” Tony explains. “But she seems oblivious, and I’m just wondering if she’s just like Barnes, waiting to be activated.”

Bruce hums in response. “What’re we supposed to do with her then if she’s potentially some killing machine?” The words feel sour leaving his lips, but Bruce has read the files on HYDRA.

Over Tony’s shoulder, Bruce watches as a small hand reaches out to the door and pulls it open.

Tony can’t help but tense as you stand against the door frame, a weak smile forming on your lips despite the dried tears lining your cheeks.

“I don’t know what’s going on with me, Tony.” You sadly admit. “Do, do you think you can help me, please?”

“Come with us, Y/n.” Bruce forces a grin as he walks toward the elevator, Tony hanging back as you slowly walk out and stand beside Tony.

“Can you help make it stop, Tony?” You plead to your employer who seems conflicted.

“We’ll do what we can.” Tony coldly states, walking behind you to the elevator, ensuring you stand between him and Bruce, just in case anything happens.

*

Your footsteps can be heard throughout the base as you follow behind the woman in charge. Heads turned as she walks with confidence, no one taking notice of who you are in her presence.

Pushing the door open to her office, you follow in and hover by the chair. “Please, Y/n,” Peggy motions to the chair as she closes the door, lowering the blinds too to ensure privacy.

“Thank you for meeting me, Ms Carter.” You speak politely, trying to keep a facade up that everything will be alright, but if there’s anyone who can see right through it, it’s Peggy Carter.

Rifling through the files on her desk, Peggy opens up a series of them as the papers cover the space in front of her. “Oh Y/n, call me Peggy.” Her red lips rise to a sincere smile, hoping you’d ease the tension you’re holding. “Well, the good news is I’ve had the report in from the Doctor, and you’re fit and healthy all around.”

You can’t stop the giggle of excitement escape you. “Sorry,” You mutter, but Peggy doesn’t seem to mind in the slightest; it’s the most positive you’ve sounded in the past two years you’ve known her.

“No need to be, there are still a few more tests we have to run on both you and the machinery. However, if all still stands, we should be able to do our first test run within the year.” Peggy explains, catching sight of the frown on your lips deepening. “I know this isn’t the news you hoped for today, but trust me, this is progress.”

Peggy reaches out, placing her hand on the desk. Slowly, you extend your arm, allowing her to take your hand in hers.

“We both lost, Y/n. But we can move forward.” She assures you once more, hoping someday you’ll believe it yourself.

“It happened again,” You explain, looking up directly to the clock, noticing five minutes have passed since you focused on it. “it keeps happening, more frequently than before and I can’t control it.” Panic rises in your voice as you perch on the lab bench, studying Tony and Bruce's reactions as they monitor you closely.

“So these, ‘memories’ aren’t your own?” Tony asks uncertainly.

Rubbing your eyes as they continue to pound, you shrug your shoulders. “I don’t know, they’re in my head, and I can remember aspects of them, certain noises, settings and sometimes people. I, I was with a Carter,” You squint, trying to remember her name, but you sigh heavily. “I can’t remember, sorry.”

“Carter?” Tony repeats, and you nod. “Interesting.” He mumbles as he helps Bruce hook you up to the systems, hoping to catch your next ‘memory’ and see your brain activity whilst monitoring your heart. “I, I’ve gotta make a call.” Tony excuses himself, nodding to Bruce before exiting the lab.

“If you can just lie down, Y/n.” Bruce asks you gently, seeing the fear in your eyes as you lie back. “I’m just going to place these on your head and chest.”

Closing your eyes, you try your best to relax whilst images of a brunette with red lipstick form in your mind. You can hear her faintly saying two names, but your ability to focus is gone once again.

Across the compound, Bucky is barely able to focus as he slams his fists against the torn punching bag whilst Steve stands on the other side, keeping it in place after Bucky nearly threw Sam across the room.

“Are you sure she’s okay?” Bucky shifts his attention across the gym to Natasha and Wanda’s conversation.

Natasha shrugs her shoulders as she stretches out. “I don’t know, she went dead behind the eyes and as I left her, Tony was heading her way.” Natasha explains, and Bucky looks over to Steve.

“Buck, I’m sure it’s fine.” Steve tries to help, but Bucky shakes his head.

“I can feel it, Steve,” Bucky mutters. “somethings wrong, I, I can’t just leave it.” He explains, swiftly walking off out of the gym as eyes turn to Steve holding the rocking bag.

Scoffing under his breath, Steve pushes the bag away from him. “Bad day.” Steve comments before running after Bucky before he can do any potential damage.

Sitting with his fellow soldiers, Bucky tries to disguise his rising fears, but his foot continues to tap against the ground. “You got a dame back home, Barnes?” One of the soldiers, Johnson asks and light laughter echoes through the cells as they all wait for some movement to be heard.

Lifting his head up, Bucky focuses on each of those he can see from his regiment, those who are left at least. No one is sure who captured them, but Bucky knows they aren't likely to get out of this scot free, or alive for that matter.

“I do,” Bucky admits quietly. “and she’s the most wonderful gal I’ve ever laid eyes upon.”

“That’s sweet,” Johnson comments, sitting opposite Bucky as he wipes his bloodied nose with his palm. “just, just keep thinkin’ about her, alright? That sorta thought helps.” He nods to Bucky before resting his head back against the metal bars.

“Yeah,” Bucky whispers as footsteps can be heard, heading directly towards his cell. “if I don’t make it out, can you tell her I,”

Before Bucky can finish his sentence, two large men unlock his cell and grab him. He manages to catch a glimpse at the red band on their arms, noticing a different symbol than the Nazi one branded in his mind.

“Please, just tell her!” Bucky yells as he’s dragged out of sight, unaware of the horrors he’s about to face.

Focusing on Bruce, you tense as the stickers are placed on your forehead. “Sorry, did that hurt?” Bruce asks timidly, but you shake your head.

“Just kinda cold,” You nervously remark as the rest are slowly placed. “where did Tony go?”

Bruce looks past you at the glass walls, seeing Tony walk out of sight with his phone against his ear. “He, er, had to make a quick phone call. I’m sure he’ll be back shortly.” Bruce reasons as he attaches the last sticker to your chest before averting his attention to the computer systems.

Closing your eyes, you listen to the methodical tapping of keys and the sudden sound of your heart rate beside you flashing up on a monitor.

“Okay, all systems in place. Now it’s down to you to induce a ‘memory.’“ Bruce forces an anxious laugh as you simply look at him before tilting your head back to focus on the blank ceiling, a shame they couldn't cover it in stickers like the dentist used to, you think.

“Do you think I’m evil?” You ask, not daring to move your vision from the ceiling, unaware of Bruce stepping back.

“No.” He responds quickly. “I think you’ve been manipulated with, but I don’t think you’re evil.” Bruce justifies, checking the brain activity to see any spikes, but it remains standard.

“You’re acting like I’m made of glass.” You comment, now moving your head to see Bruce rubbing his hands together as he watches the monitors. “But I’m not, I, I know my parents, my childhood home and school." Your voice begins to waver, but you carry on regardless.  "I can tell you the classes I took in college, my first boyfriend and my first time drinking.” You ramble, but Bruce is trying to ignore you. “Please, I, I know who I am.” You whimper, slamming your head back as you stare at the bare white walls above you.

Outside, Tony listens as the line ends up with him left answering a voicemail for the third time.

“Fury, it’s Stark, listen, I need to speak with you urgently. There’s something going on with my new assistant, Y/n Y/l/n. She, she knows Peggy Carter and, just call me back, ASAP.” Huffing, Tony leans against the wall, wondering how he got himself into this mess.

Yet, his moment of contemplation is short-lived as yells from Steve can be heard up ahead.

“Buck, just stop!” Steve shouts as Bucky comes into view, eyes dark and fists clenched as he marches down the corridor.

“Woah, woah, where do you think you’re going?” Tony asks, standing in front of Bucky as Steve catches up in time before Bucky raises his fists.

Holding Bucky back, Steve grunts as Bucky fights against his hold.

“Where is she?” Bucky can feel the anger rising through his veins as Tony buries his hands in his pockets, remaining perfectly calm.

“Where’s who?” Tony asks, looking up to Steve who shakes his head, still struggling to hold Bucky back.

“Come on, Tony. We know you have Y/n down here,” Steve sighs, a brief moment of weakness that Bucky detects as he slams his elbow into Steve’s stomach, causing him to recoil and release Bucky.

Without a moment to lose, Bucky rushes forward to the lab and before he’s stunned by Tony, he catches sight of you on a metal slab, hooked up to machinery with tears streaming down your face.

“No, Y/n!” Bucky screams, pausing by the glass wall, his metal hand resting against it as you begin to turn your head, a second too late as Tony fires a stun at him, forcing Bucky to the ground.

Your breathing increases, causing your heart rate to spike and Bruce rushes over. “Hey, Y/n, it’s fine. Tony has just er, stunned him.” Bruce explains, but your eyes widen.

“Bruce, I, I need to see him, please, let me see Bucky.” You practically beg, trying to pull the wires from yourself but Bruce manages to hold you down before you notice a needle piercing your arm.

With heavy eyes, your focus on Bruce begins to fade. “I’m sorry, Y/n. We’ve gotta keep you here.” His voice sounds too far away as your vision darkens, the last of the ceiling disappearing as your eyes close.

Bucky grunts as he remains on the ground, but turns his head to see Tony stood with his hand covered by his Iron Man tech, a glow of pale blue emitting from his palm, yet to be fired.

“You alright, Buck?” Steve calls out from beside Tony.

Not responding verbally, Bucky nods as he uneasily stands, holding his hands up and remains on the spot where he fell, out of sight from you.

“Tony, lower your hand.” Steve scoffs, and Tony hesitantly obliges, powering his charge down. “I told you not to come here, Bucky,” Steve comments like a disappointed parent, but Bucky’s jaw clenches as he looks at the floor beneath him, the scuff marks from where he fell moments prior.

“Are one of you planning on telling me what the hell is going on here? Because I’ve got a delusional assistant having a brain scan in there who might be a potential HYDRA plant and I want answers.” Tony steps forward, looking between the two super soldiers. “No, you don’t wanna tell me?” Tony raises his arms in defeat and begins to walk away, back to the lab.

“Bucky,” Steve mutters to his friend who eases his jaw and finally looks up.

“Y/n Y/l/n,” Bucky speaks up, and Tony spins on his heels, facing Bucky. “she was my fiance.”

Tony stares at Bucky in disbelief before whistling loudly. "Well, I didn't expect that."

P A R T  F O U R 

(thank you to the following for all the love in the first two parts! if you’d like to be tagged in this mini series do let me know) (tagging those who wished to be tagged from p2!) 

@mellmellmell12@theofficialzivadavid @fandom-princess-forevermore @lokilovefoever @vivalakatee @chgevorgian @captainwinterwriter @carliewinchester @spn-obession @buckysquad @shower-me-with-roses @basicgukk @yasminwashere @sunfouler  @feminist-fan-girl @stealapizzamyheart​

[lazzledazzler]

Lazzle's Rune Factory 5 Review

Alright so here are my thoughts and experiences with RF5! This is a big boy so buckle in earthmates...

Obviously this review will contain spoilers, read at your own risk.

Initial thoughts upon playing...

Great opening! I enjoyed the jazz music~ I did feel like it leaned a bit more towards the male player though. It definitely feels like a rune factory game. It's familiar, and controls are easy to get accustomed to for the most part. The mold is there and rf5 doesn't stray too far from its predecessors which is comforting for veterans. That being said, I'm not going to pull any punches and will critique this game harshly. Keep in mind as updates for the game are released not all things discussed in this review will be as relevant overtime!

Let's hear some thoughts on...

The story/plot. The plot is enjoyable overall. I'm not crazy about the whole Seed organization thing but it was a neat idea. They address the Sechs Territory and it is confirmed that the game takes place some decades after RF4. But by the end of it, I didn't feel like I really accomplished anything because it felt like I barely did anything really. Also they left a lot of stuff unanswered. I'm not even sure I understood the message they were sending, if they were trying to send a message at all. The main story is too short, and it doesn't involve enough of the townsfolk. You're basically doing everything yourself in secret the whole time and the townsfolk barely know what's actually going on. Out of the love interests, Lucas plays the largest part in the story, followed by Priscilla and Scarlett. The story feels targeted at male audiences--at least that's how I felt. You, the player, have a larger role in the game, much like in RF3 and I was glad to see this. As of right now there are only two arcs. Praying for DLC 3rd arc...!

Protagonists. The latest protagonists to join the crew of Earthmates are...decent. Their designs are nothing special unfortunately, though I appreciate Alice's more than Ares's. Appearance-wise they lack personality and creativity. Personality wise I am pleasantly surprised with how sociable they are. They're not exactly quick witted and sassy like Lest/Frey were in rf4, or as endearing as Micah in rf3, but they have a certain realness to them that makes their reactions to things believable. I'm certain Xseed will see to making them a bit more sarcastic in their localizing efforts, so let's all look forward to that. Overall though, while I appreciate their mannerisms, they don't really measure up to all the previous amnesiacs we've grown to love over the decades.

Characters. Overall I enjoy all the characters introduced in Rune Factory 5! I feel like there is someone for everyone in this game on some level. The voice acting was pretty good for every character. The designs are very much Rune factory. Like OG runefa, compared to rf4 ( 4 kind of strayed from their usual style) which I like. Characters still have their own signature quirks that you find endearing. Although I would have liked to see more variety? Like we've had mermaids, univir, half monsters, vampires, etc in previous titles but rf5 only gives us the usual (half) elf, dwarf, and then a succubus (physically she doesn't have unique features aside from the ears and heart eyes), and some were-people. I was hoping for something more unique to really give that classic runefa vibe.

Dungeons/Battles. I'm pretty split on this one. On the one hand, the dungeons have more depth due to the 3D aspects. They've included more contraptions that are very fun to see even if they aren't executed that well. So I'm grateful for that. On the other hand, the dungeons are insanely short imo. It doesn't take long at all to get to the boss. The puzzles are also pretty subpar and few compared to RF4. Fighting monsters is similar to the other games. You can lock on now but I only use it when I'm trying to use my Seed Circle. The lock on feature is actually counter-intuitive and makes it harder to dodge. Weapon mechanics have shifted a bit. There’s a feature that makes you invincible to damage if you time the R button dash correctly. Axes and Hammers are significantly slower than in older games? Like. I thought I was in slow motion it was so slow. Lances are also harder to use as well? I'm questioning my sanity here. I don't know if it's a bug or intentional either.

Farming. Not much has changed from previous games mechanics wise. They added new types of special crops which is neat. The camera view changes to overhead when you go near your fields though, and it can make you dizzy/uncomfortable. It actually makes it a bit difficult to see at times so I wish there was a way to adjust the angle. If you are tilling corn or dried weeds to improve the soil, you need to place them separately if you don't want to use the entire stack. Otherwise, it will till the entire stack on the land if you place them all down at once. The flower shop is unlocked late in the story. Weird thing to do considering you need flowers to make medicine. Not to mention the fact that you wont have access to the fertilizer that increases defense against typhoons? During typhoon season? Thinking emoji...

The town. I have to say Rigbarth's design is poor compared to Sharance, Selphia, etc. It's too big and it takes too long to get around. Everything is too spaced out and there aren't enough warp points to make it easier on players. I don't want to walk an entire mile up a hill to talk to one person and then walk all the way down to the beach to speak to another. It doesn’t really feel like a ‘town’.

OST/BGM. Music was good, though nothing really stood out to me where I'd go "damn this slaps" or something. I think they might've had some old soundtracks from rf2 or something because it felt really nostalgic at times.

We need an exterminator. (Bugs Bugs Bugs)

Marvelous, I don't know how to tell you this buuut...your customers are NOT your testers. When you release a game, you need to make sure it's not littered with glitches because customers don't enjoy dealing with them and will drop the game!

Here are some of the types of glitches I encountered:

Crashing. Game would randomly crash or freeze and close at any moment. Sooooo frustrating! Sometimes you get lucky with the autosave feature, but the autosave only activates every morning at 6am in your room and then when you warp to a dungeon level/floor. So when you're in the middle of your daily tasks in town and it crashes, you have to start all over. Marveloussss no one enjoys losing their progress in a game I promise you that much.

Lag. The dialogue bar is seriously slow, especially after loading your file. Crafting/Cooking screen lags. When you press the Y button to skip through dialogue it lags like hell. Pretty much after every time you load the game will lag, the audio will lag if you're in a battle, everything is just. so. slow.

Repeating dialogue. So if you close your game entirely (or if it crashes) naturally you'll reload your file to continue where you left off. There's a bug that will cause all NPCs to repeat the last dialogue that occurred from whatever plot related thing you did last. So for example, if the last thing you did in the story was unlock Ludmilla, everyone in town will naturally have some dialogue about her. But even after seeing all this dialogue and even saving, if the game is closed and reloaded you'll have to read all that dialogue again from townsfolk. It got really annoying after a while.

Monster taming. One time I tamed a monster but once I named it and hit 'ok' the monster never showed up in my barns? Just. gone. Okaaaay then...? Additionally, I expanded one of my monster barns but all of the monsters I tamed wouldn't appear in the added room. You get 4 monsters for each room but the monsters I tamed would show up in the original room. Meaning I had like 7 monsters in one room! I tried to bring them into the newly added room but they would just warp back to the other room. Sad.

Pond Glitch. I fished in the pond located in Sasayaki Forest and left the fish I caught but didn't want laying around the water's edge. If you leave fish around the pond's edge and go to sleep, the next morning you will be teleported to the pond and trigger the fairy dialogue as if you had thrown all of the fish into the pond??? So the dialogue of her telling you she wants 'X item, not this!' will trigger over and over for all of the fish you left at the water's edge. RIP.

Party member Bug. I had Martin in my party and I made him leave. Then when I went into my monster barns to get a monster pal to join me instead it showed me Martin's portrait???? Also I've encountered a bug where I can no longer ask anyone to join my party for some unknown reason. The R &L button prompt was just gone when I reloaded.

Errors. When cooking or crafting, the dialogue box shows up sometimes...

Typos. Random average typo here and there. Not a real biggie but there is one instance where the heroine will use the japanese male pronoun "boku" instead of "watashi" which really convinced me that this game was completely intended for men lol.

Let's talk about Pros

The good stuff. The stuff that makes you all warm and fuzzy inside.

Plot Advancing. Now I'm gonna put this as a pro because I'm certain the average player will enjoy this even though I do not. There are now markers on the map to show you where to go to advance the plot. This is all well and dandy, but it also made the story less appealing for me because you don't need to go around town and speak to residents for clues or assistance to advance anything in the story.

3D Graphics The 3D models are all amazing. The interior designs of the houses/buildings are also incredibly detailed and realistic.

Collecting items. Now there's a feature that will allow you to collect items into your inventory just by walking over them. This is pretty neat and welcome for the most part. Once the item is sparkling, you can walk over it and it'll go into your rucksack automatically. This also makes lumbering and mining go much faster. Yay!

The miraculous L pocket. Now you can customize the categories that appear in your L pocket by going to the rucksack tab in the menu. This is a super neat feature that makes things easier on players who want to manage their items in a format that suits them.

Weapon/Tool Toggling. You can now toggle between your equipped weapon and tool by pressing the left or right buttons on the trackpad.

Collecting lumber/material stone. Oh lord this is probably the most welcome improvement moving forward from the previous game. You can now put all of the lumber and material stone from your inventory into its storage at once. This also applies to fodder for tamed monsters. Well done Hakama.

Autosave. This feature is a welcome addition to the series. The game will save your data every morning and every time you enter a dungeon. Autosave has really saved my ass a few times when I made a huge error in judgement so I'm incredibly grateful for this feature. And it doesn't save over your actual save file--there's a separate autosave file at the very top. So if you messed up something but already saved on your main file, you can still salvage your mistake by reloading the autosave! I just wish it activated a bit more often sometimes.

Warping. Now we can warp to each level in a dungeon as well as certain places on the map in town. It's pretty convenient for the most part.

Increased party members. Now you can have up to 3 members in your party! Hooray! Party members act more intelligently than in older games. Scarlett can use the Seed circle to assist you in fights. I think she also tosses healing potions at you occasionally. So far, no one has tossed a dish at me if I haven't eaten like Kiel and Clorica did in rf4. But I have been hit by a failed dish (from reinhardt?) and a healing potion (from scarlett). Scarlett, Priscilla, and Reinhardt are the most helpful when dungeon crawling in my experience. Some of them however, (looking at you Doug) don't shut the hell up with their one line of dialogue they have and repeat it constantly.

Seed Circle. This neat feature allows you to capture monsters. By charging it and releasing you can capture monsters for the bounty system or add them to your party temporarily. If you throw it without charging it, you can stun monsters in place momentarily or grab things from far away. When stunning monsters, it can also give you the monster's drop item occasionally. Unfortunately it uses a lot of RP so it can be difficult at times.

Combo attacks. This is a neat feature that I appreciate and use often for boss fights. They do some serious damage so it's good to save them for the bosses. The actual cutscenes aren't that impressive, and feel kind of subpar when you get down to it but I think it's a start in the right direction.

Farm Dragons. I'm listing this as a pro although I really just see it as a new feature. Farm dragons have fields on their backs that you can place monster barns on and farm on. Giving them certain crystals will give your fields boosts in certain criteria, like length of growth, soil quality, you get it. I personally don't use the crystals because I couldn't give a shit lmao I have men and women to woo here. But if you're into this kinda thing then it's a pro.

Storage. When opening your storage box, fridge, etc. you can actually hit the R & L buttons to switch between ALL of your other storages. Looooove thissss. Great addition. So much faster to put items away in their respective places.

Crafting/Forging. Now we can also use the R & L buttons to alternate between the different weapon types/accessory/gear types instead of having to exit the menu and going back in each time you want to make something different.

Cooking. More recipes have been added. Yay!

Days are longer now. More time to get shit doneeeee ayyyy

Fishing. They've added many more fish to the game! Now the player will shout something when you get a bite, making it easier for you to hit B at the right moment. Nice. Also if you fail or press B too early, the fish doesn't vanish most of the time. Also nice. There is now a feature to fish with another person's assistance. Once a day you can investigate the sign near the fishing station and someone might offer to lend you a hand. Press the B button at the right moments on the slider and you can get a rare fish that can't be caught normally.

Monsters. New types of monsters! Love the designs. Even the monsters that are the same but just have different skins are really neat. They look great in the 3D format too. You can even ride with up to two people on certain monsters! Some bosses had awesome designs while others...were bad.

New Types of Furniture. The carpenter store has a wide arrange of furniture you can buy for your home. It also has wallpapers and stuff which is really neat. Though unfortunately you can't even sit on some of the furniture so that's a shame.

Events. Now there is a system where events are triggered by approaching an icon on the map. This is probably an improvement to RF4's randomized system, though personally I found it annoying because it meant that I had to see the events before I could just enter a building normally. Sometimes I just wanted to get shit done and not have to read through walls of text for someone's love event when I just want to buy something.

Voiced Lines. The protagonist seems to have more voiced lines, as do other characters. Good!

Let's talk about Cons

Not including glitches. Oh boy. So many cons. Where do I start?

Dialogue. Probably the most notable con in the entire game. The dialogue is drastically minimal in comparison to previous games, especially rf4. There is probably a quarter of the amount of dialogue compared to rf4's insane amount of content if not less. Townsfolk repeat themselves. Often. Too often. Am I playing Harvest Moon? Originally I thought it was because the dialogue is randomized, but I think it's actually because more dialogue is unlocked as you raise townspeople's FP. Despite this, there's no linear build up where you start off as acquaintances and eventually become very close like in rf4 because of how sporadic the LP/FP is. Townsfolk don't even talk to each other. One of the greatest perks about runefa is the conversations townsfolk can have with one another. Residents randomly gathering in small groups to talk about anything. Previously you could add someone to your party and sometimes a dialogue will occur if you speak to the right person at the right time with that person in your party. This is nonexistent now. The only time they do this in rf5 is during the festivals. But, it will only trigger if you have unlocked all the characters in each marriageable lineup and they can't be in your party. The residents will talk about one another but that's pretty much it outside of town events. They got rid of all the minor dialogue that occurs too. Trying to sleep in someone's bed while they're right there? They wont comment. Inspecting objects in stores while the shopkeeper is present? Wont say anything. Take a character with you to a dungeon/boss fight? Their lips are sealed. Where's my sense of community? :(

FP/LP This ties into the dialogue issue. The rate at which LP/FP increases is sporadic as hell. You can go from 1FP/LP to 4FP/LP just by giving a gift sometimes. I wouldn't even speak to people and their affinity increased by like triple for no reason. Then it increases by like 2% for the longest time. Argh!!!

Graphics. I don't consider myself very picky when it comes to graphics. I don't really mind that the foliage and scenery are at the level of a ps2 game at best. I tried playing on my television initially, but the lag and camera operability was too much so I fully switched (haha puns) to handheld. One thing that sucked is that I literally cannot tell the difference between medicinal herbs, antidote grasses, and green grasses without the captions because the graphics are so indistinguishable. So when you're trying to pick up multiples of those items by holding the A button, you're just randomly walking over anything green in the hopes that you'll get the right ones...

Lack of Sound Effects. Something I noticed is they got rid of the sound effects that will play when you complete a puzzle or add someone to your party. When you try to brush a monster there's no sound for the '♪' they make when you successfully brush them. So it was hard for me to tell if I had actually brushed them or not. I was a bit saddened by the lack of cute sounds.

Too much free range. From the very beginning of the game, you're allowed to go pretty much wherever you want when leaving town. It was too easy to stumble into high enemy level territory without knowing, so when I was like level 5 so I got KO'd immediately.

Artwork. The portraits seem to be lower in quality somehow. Runefa has always had shitty portrait art imo but this time it's even worse. Many character's eyes looked fucked up. Though the 3D models are insanely good for mostly every character except Terry. Terry's 3D model looks Terryfying and I prefer his portrait.

Festivals. They've added some new festivals. Some I enjoy. Some not so much. They changed the format of the eating contest. It's horrible. Good luck with that one.

L pocket + R button? They got rid of the feature that lets you skip to the other end of your items when opening the L pocket by pressing R button. I really liked that feature because it made it faster to reach my items so I was bummed that they got rid of it.

Gotta go fast. Now when you speak to someone, it doesn't 'stop time' as you might say it did in previous games. So people are still moving about as you speak to someone, making it harder to catch up to people! Annoying!!!

Catch and release? Not in my farming simulator! Say goodbye to being able to toss a fish you caught back into the water. In fact, say goodbye to tossing anything you don't want anymore into the water. Now you just have an army of fish flopping on the ground around you. And with the auto pick up feature, they're probably going to end up in your inventory anyways once you try to move. There are still certain ponds with fairies that you can toss stuff into, but you'll have to deal with the fairy harping at you for giving her something she doesn't want.

Shop Hours. Oh god. The shop owners don't even open their stores at the correct hours? It says open at 9am. If you speak to them they won't open their store until like 9:07??? But Priscilla and Lucy will show up to work their part-time jobs at around 8:30am and you can buy stuff through them before 9am. So the actual shop owners (for the bread shop and general store) are pointless usually. Additionally, if the store is empty (but open) you can no longer add a shopkeeper into your party and then enter their store with them to buy things from them. Why. Just why. When you want to buy something that only a specific person sells (Only Hina sells fish, only Heinz sells misc items) you have to wait for them to finally decide to work in their own store. Wonderful.

Monster Item drops. Maybe I'm crazy but the monster drops are seriously a lot harder to get than in previous games. Especially boss drops. It's almost impossible to get the rare drops now. I don't even want to try anymore. And as far as I know, the only place to buy monster items is through Heinz, but his items are actually misc. items, not specifically monster drops. So you'll be lucky to check his store (whenever tf he decides to actually work) for any monster items you might want instead of farming for the drops. Sighs.

Difficulty. This game is too easy. There is little to no challenge whatsoever. I had to increase the difficulty setting to hard mode and it was still too easy. I beat it at level 139, never once did I need to grind or level. In fact, your character levels up way too quickly for the pace of the story. I had zero trouble with any of the bosses and even the final boss was a breeze. Quite sad. Though because I am not new to the franchise, it's likely that newcomers would have some trouble in the later parts of the story.

Fishing cons. Idk how you fck up fishing but they sure did. You have to stand further back now because the pole is so long that you'll miss the fish you're aiming for. In fact, it's seriously hard to aim period. You'll end up recasting more often than not. Fish come in the various sizes but they don't seem to have the darker or faded characteristics that can indicate whether it's a rare fish or not. The graphics make it hard to tell. The pros that i've already mentioned are welcomed but it doesn't negate the fact that I do not enjoy fishing like I did in previous games.

Mining/Lumbering Cons. You can no longer strike three times consecutively when mining/lumbering. This sucks lol. Even when you upgrade your axe or hammer, powering up the tool does nothing for getting wood and material stone--it only expands the area of your strike. So it takes longer to get wood/stone from stumps and rocks now since you have to strike the full 9 times but it's not too bad. It's also harder to aim now as well so that's also unfortunate.

Seasonal Fields? Kiss them goodbye! That's right, there are no seasonal fields in rf5 because devs are insane! You instead have the farm dragons that seem to look seasonal based on the fact that they are designed after elements like earth, water, and fire. But no, these dragons are simply extra fields for you to use. Here's a spoiler: you're not going to use those fields. You're just not. They're kinda useless unless you're obsessed with farming. Now you have to grow your crops out of season like the sad farmer that you are.

Farming cons. Seeds no longer tell you how long it takes to grow the crop. Why. As of June 29th, they fixed this with an update. But I still had to play the whole game without it so fuck you marvelous. The joystick is really sensitive? So when you're trying to use a fertilizer or something on your field you're likely to place it on the wrong 4x4 tile, wasting your fertilizer. So it’s best to hold down the R button when farming. Also the crops look uglie as hell.

Sleeping and warping cutscenes. Just like in rf4 there's a cutscene when you go to sleep that can be skipped easily by pressing A. In rf5, there's a cutscene to sleep and a cutscene when waking up. It takes a bit more than a second to skip these scenes so it gets annoying after a while. Warping is this new feature that replaces our beloved escape spell. Overall I appreciate the feature but I hate it for two reasons. One: there's an annoying ass cutscene for it each time you use it that could be much shorter. And Two: townsfolk now use warp even when inside the town. In previous games, someone exiting your party in town would just manually run to wherever they need to be. So you could easily chase after them if you need to talk to them or give them something. Now, party members use warp regardless of where you are at the time. So say you have someone at 7 hearts and you want to try confessing to them. You would have them join your party, save your game, and then have them leave your party and immediately speak to them and confess before they can run off. If it doesn't work you reload until it does. In RF5 this wouldn't work anymore because they will warp. Now you would have to save, run around town trying to find this person and hope they accept the confession. Otherwise you'll have to play hide and seek again because reloading your file will randomize the resident's locations (if they are not working in a shop)!!!! I often just waited until a festival day because then they will be at the plaza for most of the day and it has a warp point there.

Crafting/Forging/Cooking. They've removed the feature where you can press Y on the ingredients in the menu to add more of that particular item. I miss this feature :'(

Lacks incentive. There is no trophy room from my knowledge. The final dungeon that is meant to be like the sharance maze/rune prana isn't that hard to beat for skilled players and is only 20 floors. After you beat the main story and this dungeon there's not much else to do really.

Request Board. Unlike in rf4, you need to make sure you have accepted requests before you complete them or else it will not count. Previously, you could complete all sorts of tasks and Eliza would still recognize your work even if you accept their request after the fact. ie, shipping goods, harvesting crops, etc. So make sure you don't harvest your special crops before accepting the request it's for!

Return of the "Loli" Dragons... Yeah you read that right. We got more dragons in children's(???) bodies with skimpy clothes. I don't know anymore????¿¿¿

Can't marry the Milfs or Dilfs. Tragic.

Still no homo. Grow up Marvelous.

Reverse Proposal? Reverse Uno card-- Laid low by the patriarchy. You now have to buy the double bed and craft an engagement ring to propose to your man if you're playing as Alice. Marvelous this isn't what we meant when we said we wanted equal rightsssssss This can be seen as a pro if you're a softhearted babey who doesn't like rejecting bachelors' proposals because you feel bad :'( But this is a con for me because I don't want to spend money and materials on a double bed dammit!!!

Misc. Still can't stack dishes or fish. There's no green elemental fairy???All the other elemental ones are there except the green one? why??? Still can't tame the giant Wooly. Some bosses that have insanely awesome designs cannot be tamed and makes me wanna eat glass.

Let's talk about Love~

Relationships. We want them. And half of us only play these games for them. I've only played as the female heroine so far but I'll be updating this review as soon as I finish with the bachelorettes as the male hero.

Confessions

As usual, we must raise the love points of our beloved to 7 hearts before we can attempt to date them. However unlike in rf4, if you fail at a confession once, you will need to raise the LP up an entire level before you can try again with any chance of success. It's imperative you save before attempting a confession now.

Love Events

Each love interest has two love events that must be seen before you can date them. They're reminiscent of older game's style but I felt they could have been a biiiit more interactive or so? Or involved the town a bit more for some of them.

Dating

Once you get your honey to be your bf/gf, you get to choose the nicknames as usual. Then you can go on dates. The first three (non-festival) dates are actually events. You need to see all three events to get married.

Marriage Event

The final event you need to clear before you can marry your sweetie. In my honest opinion, so far for the boys, these events were rather disappointing. They lacked the drama and angst that sort of 'test' the love between the two when compared to rf4. Also this is a huge con for me personally and a minor spoiler but there are no special cutscenes at the end of the marriage event like in rf4. Instead, the cutscene takes place during your actual wedding. I was saddened by this because it took away the depth from the marriage events and the actual character? As it is just a cut and paste type of thing instead of an original cutscene for each person. They lack individualism this way. Also it kinda felt like a way for devs to avoid gay relationships and cut corners :^/....sus.

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes...

Children!!!!!! This is actually one of the coolest additions in the game. Just like in rf3, you can have up to 3 children again! Your first child will resemble you, and you will have the option to choose its gender as well as its personality. There are 6 different children, (3 boys and 3 girls), all with different hairstyles, mannerisms, and seiyuus. Your answers will determine which child you get. A year after your first child is born, you will get the option to have a second child. You'll end up with twins, both resembling your partner. You won't get to choose the genders (it will be a boy and girl) but you will get to choose the personalities once more. The children all have canon names too and each kid is incredibly cute. And of course, you're still able to take your kid with you in your party~ ...Though you can only take one kid with you at a time.

So is RF5 good?

Yeah it's a fun game! My theory is that Marvelous forced the devs to release the game earlier than they were ready for, and that's why it's so lacking. But that doesn't mean it's not worth playing! I'd rate it 3.5/5 stars hehe. Not nearly as good as RF4 (full stop 5/5), or RF3 (4/5) but enjoyable nonetheless. I wouldn't recommend it as a first game to play from the series for newcomers though, I feel it's best for vets who can overlook all the cons thanks to loyalty and nostalgia. By the time it’s released in the West, the bugs should all be dealt with too.

So! Definitely buy this game! We want the series to continue and we want RF6 to be better than this--and hopefully Marvelous will make sure of that next time. If you're not a picky person I think you'll enjoy rf5 a lot. If you're like me and have high standards then, well, still pick it up and let it run its course. Then dust off rf4sp and cleanse your gaming palette >;^)

[neocatharsis]

Ten on his new Represent capsule, grappling with creativity, and evading genre lines.

As Ten Lee - a vocalist and dancer in K-pop groups NCT (with whom he debuted in 2016) and Super M, and Chinese group WayV - is musing over his proclivity for partnering music or visual styles in a way that others deem strange, he veers off on a tangent. “Anything can be matched… except juice and coffee,” he says, suddenly. “Those two should never be.” Ten is infamously anti-fruit. It stems from a mistaken process of association in childhood where “I had the image of a spider and the image of fruit mixed up,” he laughs awkwardly, “so now whenever I put fruit in my mouth, I think there’s spiders in my mouth.”

Random abstractions such as this pepper his rapid-fire conversation, like small fireworks fizzing through the dark. Excitable, enthused and sharply alert, if Ten’s energy was visible it would be a shimmering mantle of gold and silver dust. As a dancer, he moves with a sinuous, controlled power that can shift from elegant to explosive on a single beat. As a visual artist, the Bangkok-born, multilingual 25-year-old recently added the title of designer to his growing list of achievements, launching an already sold out collaboration with the bespoke merch platform Represent.

Aptly, he named his collaboration “What is ??? THE ANSWERS”, for although being a chameleonic artist is one of Ten’s greatest strengths, the personality traits that enable this created within him question marks around how he saw himself fitting into the world. “People ask me, ‘What kind of music do you like?’ And I say, ‘I like R&B but hope it sounds rock’. And they’re like, ‘That doesn’t make sense’.” It was troubling to Ten that people began telling him who he was and how he should be, instead of accepting him as is.

In a recent Instagram Live, the myriad of Ten’s contrasts tumble forthwith. He’s the doting cat-dad. His inner emo, who loves rock music, shows off dried roses, with the stern, black, geometric lines of the large tattoo on his inner right arm sometimes visible. But he’s also delicate in a way, with his butterfly tattoo and hair lightly permed, who names daisies as his other favourite flower, and plays Fousheé’s breathy TikTok hit, 'Deep End'.

“Have you seen the image where I have my name in a cross in lots of different languages?” He pulls the image up on his phone. The design sits on his Represent long sleeve tee. “I was thinking [about this], like, what you’re saying... Ten has this luvvie flower side and a very ‘rawwrr!’ side. I’m always like, ‘Ten, what kind of person are you?’ I do ask myself that, too, because everything I like is so different [to the other].” He could have conceded, and reined himself in. He’s pushed back instead. “I thought, ‘I can be anything I want, I can be this in the morning and this at night. I can be any person I want to be’. And that’s what makes me comfortable and happy.”

On his Instagram, Polaroids feature scrawled messages, like “Don’t tell me what to do!” and “Whatever! I’ll do it my way”. The designs of his collaboration seek to challenge being boxed in by other people’s standards, thus limiting ourselves. The recurring symbol of a cross tipped with arrows is a nod to the Chinese letter for 10, but doubles as a plus sign. He’s added it to his Instagram, writing “TEN_+•10” in his bio. “A plus sign can mean that you’re adding on and growing.” He points to another version of the arrow-cross, one with short diagonal dashes between its points that symbolise light. It means, he says, “that I’m radiating. I’m burning, I’m active, I’m doubling myself.” He touches his forearm, where crowning his geometric tattoo is a blazing sun. “I have this, like, if you want to be the light, you have to burn. I relate to that.”

This isn’t to say Ten’s self-exploration is complete. While celebrating his strengths, the artwork also portrays parts of himself not yet conquered. He admits to being a chronic overthinker: “Even very small things that happen to me, I rethink a thousand times, and I get stressed out because of the things I do. Like, the main theme [here] is me overthinking but trying to find an answer even though it doesn’t have any answer.” Fittingly, spiral shapes dominate his designs, looming large amongst bright, bold shapes that evoke 80s Pop Art and graffiti, though Ten shies away from defining himself as “fully an artist, I’m not in the position to say things like that yet.”

“I’m still learning and trying new things. You learn by getting different elements from different people and I’m in that stage now.” He enjoys wandering the infinite halls of Instagram and Pinterest where he screenshots art that he likes, lost in the images, often for hours. He explains that he’s mostly influenced by whatever his current visual obsession is. “I’m interested in tattoos lately so my paintings look like tattoo designs. I’m that person who, when they see stuff, it goes into my brain and instantly comes out from my hands,” he laughs.

Ten’s introduction to art and design was through his mother, who believed music, art and sport were more important in a child’s development than traditional academia. “She didn’t care if I got an A* or not, just don’t get an F or a D,” he grins. Like any kid forced to do something, Ten railed against spending his weekends at art school. He attended but he didn’t draw. He befriended his teacher and other pupils and, as they worked, he chatted. “I was a very talkative kid! When I came to SM Entertainment (in 2013), I had a lot of my own time because my parents were in Thailand and I was alone. I had to absorb all the new culture and adapt to a new environment.’” When he felt surrounded by “negative energy”, he began drawing, enamoured with the space and freedom it offered because in art, as he often says, “there’s no right answer.”

There is, however, sometimes a middle ground. His goal was to make the Represent collection accessible to his diverse fanbase. “I wanted to make things that people can easily wear because it was my first project to make something with clothes and it’s a collab. If you go too far out, no one will get it. If you go too far back, people won’t reach for it. So finding the middle ground is important but that’s the hardest thing to do. If it’s my own project, I’ll be like, ‘I’m the president of this brand, I’m gonna make all the weird clothes that I can imagine!’”

He sought second opinions to ensure his designs landed the way he hoped. “I have a lot of good friends around me - my choreographer, (SHINee and Super M member) Taemin hyung, my manager. I randomly ask people I’m comfortable with and have known for a long time, like Mark (Lee, of NCT and Super M). Mark has the same kind of perspective as me, but I’m a person who is arrghhh!” He waves his hands in the air. “And he’s very calm. I need a person who is opposite of me because when I’m in a mood, I talk nonsense - ‘I wanna do this, I wanna do that, I wanna make this!’ - and Mark’s like,’Bro, calm down’,” he says in a rather uncanny impression of the Canadian-Korean.

Ten works fast when he’s drawing. He has to. He describes his personality as someone who can't wait until the next day to do something. “I’m very impatient,” he smiles. “If I’m going to paint or draw, I’m going to finish it in, like, two hours. I can’t sit down for three hours.” When inspiration hits him, it’s off the back of deep contemplation, sometimes about the mundane - “Like, why do the cats come to me when they’re hungry only? Is it selfish or instinct? - at other times, something affecting him emotionally.

But whereas his job as a singer and dancer sees him project his energy outwards, art offers the opposite. He’s often alone in his room when he works. As is for many artists, the right mood is fundamental. “When I’m in a good mood, I can’t draw,” he half-sighs. It’s also a multi-sensory process. “Smell or the temperature of the room, that really helps me draw. I light three or four candles. And when I draw, it’s kind of heavy, the feeling,” he explains. “It feels like you’re sinking into something, into yourself, and everything seems so small. Everything narrows down into me, my pencil, the paper.”

The more work he does in different creative mediums, the less Ten’s desire is to keep them separate. His art, dance and music influence each other, whether it’s customising his own collaboration pieces, a choreography video in an art gallery or dancing underwater with a film crew. When someone tells him that something won’t work or match up well, he refuses to let the idea go until he’s attempted it.

“I’ve had that since I was young. I think everything is possible. If you don’t try, you don’t know. When people say it’s impossible, like dancing in water for three minutes, I’m like, then let’s make it possible. You don’t need to walk a straight line [in life], you can walk this way,” Ten says, pointing along an invisible line before switching sharply in direction. “Then go back on track, go that way, come back. No one should tell you to walk in a line, I don’t see the point of that.”

© Clash Magazine

[velvetcoves]

little things in your relationship with the v3 boys + Byakuya <3

- mod velv

K1-B0 (KIIBO)

★ him tapping on your shoulder when he has a question, something to show you, etc.

★ Kiibo was a bit scared to cuddle you at first, due to his bulky frame, so he always has some sort of sweater or sweatshirt with him at all times in case you need cuddles

★ him refusing to let you consume anything unless he’s checked it over at LEAST twice

★ him always asking you how you’re feeling throughout the day

★ Kiibo making you little bracelets out of thread, and sneakily slipping them on you. by the end of the day you’ve got like 5 on your arm that you have NO idea when or where they got on you

★ ^ because of this, he likes to play with them on your wrist while you sit together and you’re just “wait what-“

KOREKIYO SHINGUJI

★ him running his hand up and down your back just enough to give you shivers every time

★ Kiyo gently pulling you to his side if you wander too far

★ him leaning down next to you just enough to whisper teasing words and sweet nothings into your ear throughout the day, before nuzzling his masked face into your neck and pulling away

★ Kiyo just being so nurturing with you

★ braiding his hair while he just relaxes into you. like you just playing with the gorgeous locks he sports, while his back is flush against your chest as you hum. he can’t get enough of it.

★ Kiyo kind of.. latching onto you in your sleep. good luck on getting out of bed on time hehe

RANTARO AMAMI

★ like i said in my relationship HCs, Rantaro is a bit of a doodler. so be prepared for that

★ him acting a bit like a crow and giving you the objects he finds. they mostly consist of rather small but breathtaking things. like a dried flower, a really pretty rock, etc. and his reasoning is that “it just reminds me of you. it’s because you’re so gorgeous.” the gODAMN FLIRT-

★ him sending you little smiles and smirks throughout the day, along with winks

★ Rantaro humming to you when you both are together, no matter if you’re alone or not.

★ ^ those little humming moments usually turn into him saying the stupidest things in a sing-songy voice. while you’re a giggling mess, he’s biting your ear-lobe gently while just seductively whispering something about cows and you just lose it

★ him booping your nose a LOT

SHUICHI SAIHARA

★ you straight up SNATCHING his hat and parading around in it

★ trying to figure out what tf he just wrote on the piece of paper he gave you like 5 minutes ago because his handwriting is so messy and you’re just “ 👁👄👁”

★ Shuichi constantly linking your pinkies together

★ you two having a couple of inside jokes that are the FUNNIEST things

★ him helping you edit any workload or essays that you need to submit soon

★ ^ along with that, Shuichi helping you write your essay that’s due at 11:59 and it’s currently 11:50. you two POWER through it lemme tell ya

GONTA GOKUHARA

★ Gonta teaching you how to handle certain bugs, as they’re delicate

★ you getting carried by ✨Gonta✨

★ straight up BABYING him if he ever gets a cut. like he’ll be working with some ladybugs and he hasn’t even noticed the decently sized cut on his arm, and you’re just “gONTA YOUR A R M-“ and he’s just “oh! Gonta not notice. oops :)”

★ ^ smh and then you’ll lightly scold him because you want your boyfriend to be careful and his heart is so full of love for you during these moments

★ you needing something from a height only he can reach, and Gonta just hoisting you’re up onto his shoulders so you can grab it

★ Gonta is w a r m. he’s like a full on human heater. so y’all’s cuddle session is otherworldly

RYOMA HOSHI

★ Ryoma silently laughing when you screw things up or start to stutter. he thinks it’s hilarious

★ also like Shuichi, snATCHING HIS HAT

★ ^ good luck keeping it for long though. he knows. he’ll find you

★ him actually opening up about his older tennis stories. your breath catches in your throat when you can hear the passion in his voice, dancing with a tinge of sadness and guilt as he tells you stories you’d never get to experience yourself

★ him being the big spoon. he needs his p r i d e.

★ ^ h o w e v e r. catch him on a bad day and this man is your little spoon through and through.

KOKICHI OUMA

★ Kokichi full on LAUNCHING himself at you if you ever come into his eyesight

★ him squeezing his way into you. like, if your arms are crossed, he scoots his way under your arms so that you’re holding him against your frame. another example is that if you’re sitting down, Kokichi will absolutely plant himself in your lap

★ Kokichi wiggling his way onto your back and falling asleep. you’ll most likely have to carry him in a piggyback ride on these rare days

★ him annoying you to no end just so you could kiss him to shut him up

★ chase scenes. that’s all i’m gonna say

★ him taking things that you’d need in a moment and having you look for them

KAITO MOMOTA

★ Kaito going off about constellations or somethin like that smh we love him here

★ him straight up YOINKING you back into his chest if you ever stand in front of him

★ you playing with his goatee randomly. he finds it adorable, but a bit embarrassing when you do it in front of Maki, he’ll tell you to stop. lmao don’t listen to him keep doing it

★ ^ Maki finds it hilarious

★ doing this thing when you two are reading and you have the book. you’ll straight up slam the book shut right under his chin to screw up the goatee and it’s FUNNY

★ Kaito just bein’ a simp for ya

BYAKUYA TOGAMI

★ him stealing very subtle glances at you from across the room. he likes to observe you, basically. the way you talk and move your hands with so much life, he LOVES it

★ you laughing whenever he scrunches up his face in distaste.

★ you resting your chin on his shoulder when it’s just the two of you. he’ll be searching for a book and you just plop your head right next to him on his shoulder, and he’ll say something like “too dependent on me now, hm?”

★ ^ stupid little rich boy smh i love him

★ while Byakuya isn’t a very cuddly person, but you two find alternatives. like you holding onto the sleeve of his suit thingy and such

★ that changes at night tho lmao like Korekiyo he LATCHES onto you

[brownandblackpearls]

📜 🖋 𝒞ourting with 𝒟r. 𝒟evorak (Julian x BlackReader) Pt.1

PART 1 SUMMARY:

You are a reputable, young beauty of means in Vesuvia, enjoying the winter courting season. An odd letter from an odd doctor finds its way to your door. You decide to respond.

─── Julian x black female reader

─── imagery + fiction

─── explicit smut

─── regency/historical/fantasy, courtship rituals, wealthy! MC, love letters, drama, handsome redheads

☾ next.

.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:・゜゜・．✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: *

.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:・゜゜・．✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: *

“Letters for you, Miss!” The scullery maid calls through the door.

You pause your writing, hesitating over your final line before turning to answer the call.

“Come in!”

The maid strides in with your daily mail on a silver platter. As expected, there is a heap of them from various suiters, all interested in seeking your hand. 

Some young, some old, some men, some women, some wealthy, and some positively blue-blooded, they are all voracious. Usually, your interest tends to wane after weeks and weeks of these greetings each season. The feeling especially set in after getting the particular suspicion that the lords, duchesses and dukes reaching out to you were having their own maids and butlers pen these letters, a copy of an inquiry to every potential young beauty in the region.

Consequently, many of the letters did not seem to genuine, remaining vague and distanced. Polite. 

Today, however, you find your lessons to be going slow. You decide to take a break and browse through the inquiries.

“Read through them for me, Delilah?” You call out the request as you lower your pen and clean your fingers in a warm, sudsy bowl of water on your desk. Drying your hands, you apply a spot of scented lotion on your fingers before smoothing it in and sliding your delicate gloves back on.

Delilah clears her throat, interested in the letters herself. 

You had no doubt the contents of the proposals would make waves throughout the household by sunset, but all of your staff were well-meaning. Just bored during these slow winter months. Honestly, you didn’t blame them for indulging in your courting dramas.

“Well,” Delilah begins, “Here is a letter from a Clarence Dunford Winthrop, hailing from Bremens County! He greets you and wishes you a very warm winter. ‘I am most pleased to write to you, Miss ------. I possess a healthy 34 years in me, and I seek the opportunity to meet and possibly enter the idea of courtship with you. Are the tales true that you are quite fine and b-buxom…? Goodness, how forward!”

You bite back a chuckle, allowing Delilah her scandalized looks and comments. After she’s thoroughly read Winthrop’s letter, she moves on to the next.

“This one,” she exclaims, “is from a young, Fiorentina Agosti, hailing from the Suthlands. She greets you amicably and wishes you a cozy winter. ‘Dear Miss ------, I am most delighted to write to you. I am a young woman of etiquette and good breeding. I am 23 years old, and yet for one so young, I am more certain of my passions and ambition than most grown adults. I seek the window of opportunity to introduce myself and my estate to you, as I am seeking to build my relationships with the nearby families of standing. I favor women only, as I’ll need a good, feminine eye to steer my estate towards a glorious future…what a boastful girl! I hear she is very attractive, though…”

Delilah goes on, examining letter after letter, reading aloud excitedly. Finally, she lands on a slightly ragged one, with a wax seal bearing no crest. Only a simple plant pattern with dried flowers and ferns trapped to the note.

“My,” Delilah wonders, flipping the envelope, “what a...humble introduction. Let’s hope that the contents are more splendid than the package they came in!”

Delilah adjusts the paper before her and begins.

“This one,” she explains, “is from a young…doctor…in the capital, near the palace. Oh, I think I recall this one? He is of great renown, but markedly odd. Hmm…He greets you fondly and asks if…if you have ‘seasonal allergies’...? He is more than happy to forward any herbs or teas that can help soothe inflammation…as a ‘show of good faith and possible friendship’—yes, very odd...He would like to know if you would be interested in accompanying him as an honored guest to his annual medical tools gala. There will be anatomical displays as well as guest surgeon speakers. Afterwards, he would like to take you to attend the opening night of a Vesuvian theatre drama, and then dinner. I—that sounds more exhausting than eventful. Goodness….“

Despite Delilah’s somewhat opinionated concerns, your interest perks at the oddness of the inquiry and the oddness of the planned date. You’re not so sure a medical gala will be of interest to you, as you’ve never attended one before, but you would like to try.  

“Delilah, please. No more commentary. What does the rest say...?”

Delilah harrumphs, moving on. “Well, he seems certain that you will find the engagement eventful and enlightening on his personage and he hopes to show you how good of a ‘provider he can be for a woman of your means’. He has ‘no grand heritage or acreages’, but he does have one of the ‘best practices in Vesuvia’ sporting several underling surgeons and plenty of business. New blood, instead of blue blood from the looks of it, if you ask me.”

You pause, thinking it over. 

The letter all sounded personally tailored and individualized for your reception, and clearly not something that was drafted up in the monotonous manner of house staff doing as ordered. 

The doctor seems very keen in meeting you... 

...You can’t help but feel the same.

“What is his name?”

Delilah levels you an uncertain look, noticing your choice, before sharing.

“The suitor signed off as a Dr. Julian Devorak.”

“Devorak,” you try out, rolling the name around in your mouth. 

It feels good.

“Thank you Delilah. You may place the letters in my box, save for the doctor’s. Please bring his to me, as well as my pen and good ink. I’ll also need the courting stationery.”

Delilah sours slightly before perking back up and doing as ordered quickly. She clearly does not approve of the choice but remembers her place, and knows that you are not one to be bossed. 

You wait until she delivers the stationery and retreats from your room before turning to your pen and paper, glancing at the letter from the doctor.

You perfume the parchment slightly, and use a fine, shimmering ink to dot the thick, French paper. You being to write, peering at your refined, swirling letters.

“Dear Sir…I take the first opportunity to acknowledge the flattering letter with which you have favored me…your discernment is of my deep interest, as well as your detailed plans for our hopeful outing. I consent to the date and time, and I look forward to your academic gala, as well as the theater and subsequent dinner. I implore that you arrive to chaperone me long before the sun is high in the sky, as we may need much time together that I am wont to spend with you. I will admit, I find you very curious and am interested to learn more of you. Warm Regards, ------.”

You finalize the paper with a neat calligraphy of your signature, before cleanly folding and pressing the letter. You choose a lovely envelope and seal it with wax before stamping and sending it off with Delilah to be mailed. 

“Hmm. Odd man,” you murmur to yourself, before moving on to send responses to the other requests of interest. 

The days pass by, eventful.

You go on several dates, some of note and some not so much. 

A few remain in your mind of potential. There was a beautiful countess seeking companionship after a split from her count…Nadia. Buxom and svelte, she was also the epitome of regality, and a brown-skinned beauty like yourself. You couldn’t help but feel drawn to her. 

There was also Asra, a mischievous but enchanting merchant king. You suspected a penchant for the occult on his end, but his beautiful face was too good of a distraction to focus on what may hide behind it. 

Then there was Muriel, a mysterious man with one of the largest claims of land in Vesuvia. He was fidgety and reserved, but you sensed a deep soul in him. 

Portia, the jeweler of the aristocracy, and her passionate stares paired with her down-to-earth jokes were enough to make you lower your guards and raise your spirits. 

Lastly,  Lucio. Oddly enough, he turned out to be the count that split with Nadia. You found his countenance alarming at first, only to later find a subtle charm in his passion for life, luxury and you.

All of them were far more interesting than the duds you’d went on dates with the past few weeks. 

Valdemar, the ambassador, had spilled soup all over your dress during a brunch while he spoke wildly about some conquest of his past. Then there’d been Volta, an odd little thing that insisted on trying all these unappealing, exotic dishes. There’d been Vlastomil, a weevil of a person who seemed more eager to gossip cruelly than to learn of you. And lastly...most memorably...there was Valdemar…you weren’t too sure what Valdemar did, but you were certain whatever it was, you wanted absolutely no part in it.

Weary from all the courting, you put your best face forward and hoped this day ended up being a delight instead of another disaster.

Foregoing flat-ironing, blowouts, presses, braids and twists this time, you decide to arrange for your servants to outfit you in lovely, long locs for the evening. You line them with fine silver trinkets, baubles, and rings before arranging your makeup to perfection and dressing in your finest, warm regards from the tailor.

Today was the day with the doctor, and you wanted to see exactly what kind of man he was. 

You donned a beautiful gown beneath your long, furred coat and lined your neck with a shining collar of diamonds. The winter snow would reflect stunningly off of them, as well as you.

Perfumed, plucked, and preened, you stand, assessing yourself in the mirror.

Vesuvia’s treasure.

You laugh, satisfied with the show stopping look, before leaving your room. You almost bump into a servant, rushing in to announce to you that the doctor has arrived with a carriage for you both.

“Let him in,” you say kindly, glancing out the window. Sure enough, a large, black carriage awaits. You lift your chest, square your shoulders, and raise your chin, allowing your lashes to lower and your aura to project.

You descend the stairs of your home into the grand hall, your eyes pinning the man that entered and awaited below, greeted politely by your staff.

‘Oh,’ you realize.

He’s gorgeous.

Your eyes widen slightly at the sight of him. Tall, tousled, and terribly attractive, Julian Devorak watched you, open-mouthed, as if you are some sort of ethereal being that decided to grace his mortal existence. Descending the marble stairs, you feel him watch every step you take until you finally reach the landing.

You decide to close the distance and break the ice when he makes no move, still in awe of you. No need for those stars in his eyes, you think. You want him dazzled, not anxious or elevating you to something or someone that is inaccessible.

He is here in your home, after all. If you were inaccessible to him, he wouldn’t be.

“Hello Dr. Devorak,” you grace easily, smiling. “I’m ------. It is a pleasure to finally meet you.”

“J-Julian, please, no need for extraneous titles,” he insists in a light stammer. “The pleasure is all mine, I can assure you.”

‘Aaw,’ you think to yourself, looking fondly at him. You’ve heard the line so many times before, but somehow, the words sound so genuine coming off of his tongue. You also like the sound of his voice very much. He sounds like how he looks, you realize.

Julian mistakes your silence for something bad, and rushes to fill it.

“I-I can’t tell you how…how long I’ve anticipated today.”

“Oh?” You ask, tilting your head in wonder. 

Were you the only one he was querying? That wasn’t possible. There had to be others. You respond pleasantly.

“I’m honored...’Julian’. But I’m sure an interesting man such as yourself is entertaining many acquaintances and possess many options.”

Julian blushes, surprising you. He shakes his head, fingers fidgeting at his sides.

“Not exactly,” he offers, leaving it there.

Your brow lifts in wonder. 

“Really...? But I loved your letter. I’ve reread it several times and am not afraid to say so. I find you quite striking.”

If possible, Julian blushes even harder at that, daring to hold your gaze. You see an odd sort of mask arise on him then, a false yet endearing bravado. You don’t call it out and simply watch as he does his best to disguise his rampant shyness.

“Ah...thank you madam! But not nearly so striking as one such as yourself! Why, I remember the feeling of when I first laid eyes on you. It was as if  lightning had struck me.”

Your eyes widen in pleasure, curious. 

“Such flattery! Where did this occur?”

Julian smiles triumphantly, happy to visibly pique your interest.

“The theater! I noticed you in your private box and it was then I decided that I must inquire to learn more about you.”

Your smile broadens, and you can’t help but step closer. Julian feels very comfortable and warm, even with the pomp.

“So that’s how you knew I’d enjoy the theater!” You exclaim. You had wondered about it since his letter first arrived. He could’ve invited you to any event, any activity, and yet he knew the theater was the right choice...

Julian tenses as you near, unsure of where to look. You can’t tell if he wants you closer or farther away. You decide to hold firm and give him time to sort it out for himself.

“I-uh…yes.” He swallows thickly. “Allow me to enlighten you of the day’s activities in the carriage…?”

You nod, realizing that your questioning is holding the both of you up from your date. You step back, cowed.

“Of course! My apologies.”

Julian swiftly holds out a broad, gloved hand for you to take. The gentleman’s escorting hold.

“No need to apologize,” Julian insists, guiding your offered palm gently, “I...I actually should be the one to apologize.” He bites his lip, thinking of some unknown err. 

You glance at him as the two of you step out the front door together, waved off by your staff.

“Whatever for…?”

Julian looks sheepish, rounding you both to the carriage door and opening it for you.

“I....well!”  He pauses, the words sticking in his mouth. “I was...told by a confidant very recently that the medical gala may have some things that are not...er, conducive for a romantic atmosphere. So I must ask...you’re not squeamish of leeches, are you?”

.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:・゜゜・．✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: *

AN: Do not copy, repost, or edit. If you see someone do so, please let me know.

☾ next.

☾ check my blog for more imagines.

[chocosvt]

⚬ pairing: demon!minghao x reader ⚬ word count: 3478 ⚬ warnings: blood, bodily injuries, death ⚬ genres: god i don’t even know... angst, unrealized pining and romance, weird tension, reader is just as evil as minghao?

✧✎ synopsis: three-hundred years have passed, and the second son has awoken from his slumber, waiting for a new soul to devour.

✧✎ a/n: this au was many things, and in finality, it morphed into this. usually i have a lot to say in my author’s note but today i bring you nothing! enjoy!

Three-hundred years had passed, and you knew due to the bell tower.

Its reverberations shuddered throughout the town, permeated the density of the smoke curtain which had swallowed the sky for centuries, and vibrated the very oxygen that fluttered in your lungs. It was a calling to check your mailbox, for reaching inside unveiled a folded note. At first, you glanced to your neighbour across the street, to the elderly man who lived on your right, and finally to the pig-tailed girl who’d just celebrated her fifteenth birthday on your left.

Yet they had retrieved nothing from their mailboxes exempt from a soft-spoken prayer, a testament to their gratitude that their lives had been spared. But you—you were the unholy meal.

With a sharp arrowhead of stone pressed to the skin between your shoulder blades, you were forced into the cavernous opening based midway along the mountain. It fed deep into the earth’s heart, and as a watchman pierced the spear’s tip further into your flesh, you began the cold, damp descent that would lead you to a deserved death, a death that could no longer be prevaricated.

After a painful stumbling over jagged flints and pieces of crystal, you emerged into the Blood Room, where three other contenders from the town were already aligned. There was not one look exchanged between either meal; however, you did recognize a specific helix piercing and the russet locks of Joshua, who you recently spotted dragging a body down to the ravine where the forest waterfall bubbled. Still, despite Joshua’s inept piousness, you knew he was not a meal worth being served.

A watchman approached you with a pocketknife. Splaying out your fingers, you observed calmly as he created a small incision against a distinct line travelling the length of your palm. As the dark, crimson fluid leaked from the wound, it was then collected in a glass dropper. Each watchman approached a scroll which hung from the stone. A drop of Joshua’s blood was tested first. It rolled about halfway down the sallow paper, which was impressive to say the least, indicative of even the boy’s worst transgressions. 

The next possible meal had their sample beaded onto the scroll, though it had soaked up rather quickly, even before Joshua’s, and you knew their sins were pitiful and their soul was much too pentant. Similarly, the blood of the other meal drew short. You couldn’t help but think the contenders were quite pathetic. 

At last the glass dropper containing your blood was being set against the paper. A slight squeeze, and the liquid bulb started its trickling. It streamed down boldly, leaving in its wake a luminous red tint that outshined even Joshua’s viscid plasma. You watched the bulb surpass one meal, then glide past the second meal, and just as you anticipated, the droplet rolled to the very end of the scroll. In fact, it began dripping onto the dust of the icy floor.

“The test concludes.” A watchman rumbled, his voice bouncing against the rock. His spear pointed toward you criminally. “Your blood runs the thickest and your heart beats the slowest. You are the unholy meal. The second son has awoken from this three-hundred-year slumber, and it is your soul he will devour so that he may be appeased and tire.”

You fought to keep an emotionless, flat face.

“Feed him well, for the weight of your blood carries more sin than purity.”

Briskly, the latter three contenders were swept away.

Joshua may have thrown his first corpse into the waterfall and watched it gush like a leaf down the black ravine, but his single body could not compare to the hundred that you’d left to float for years.

The bare bottoms of your feet were engrained with shallow cuts and stained by the powder to the numbing stone. You had not eaten or drank for over forty-eight hours, and your strength, which could often be as robust as great titanium, had seemingly dwindled to an emaciated, dried flower.

From the tales your mother relayed amongst your youth, you knew it was important to not make a face in the presence of the second son. Unlike his older brother, Jun, who would only be appeased by a meal who smiled and flaunted their guilt, Minghao chiefly adored a meal who showed no more emotion than the limestone tumbled along the mountainside. It was best to please the Demon Sons before they untied your soul from its fleshy bindings and swallowed it whole.

Or else in their next awakening, they might demand a meal of the entire village.

Minghao gestured to the garnet-coloured mat which had been lain across his bedroom floor. There were bowls of flavourful rice, steaming, clay pots filled with different soups, plates warmed by sliced bread and tin cups almost overflowing due to the plentiful wine inside.

“Hungry?” He asked, to which his soft, wispy voice was rather surprising.

Your countenance remained blank, unmoving, apart from your mouth. “Yes, I am starved.”

“Sit,” the second son invited, “I want you to be satiated and full, until you feel sleepy.”

Heeding his order, you sat cross-legged on the side of the mat opposite to the demon. His robe, embroidered with ruby lace, rippled behind his feet when he walked, and the collar’s diamond shape revealed underworldly markings which drew attention to the pale expanse of his chest. Even through the material cloaking his arms, you could faintly decipher the kohled tattoos. You had even recognized the familiar symbols chiselled into the walls during your trek to the demon’s chamber. When Minghao took his seat, he grabbed one of the black horns curling from his hair and dug his thumb into the pointed end.

“They are becoming weak,” he admitted, “I’m sure my brother’s wings are close to shattering from his broad shoulders. I’m sure the nerves are peeling and laughably brittle.” Minghao reached for a bowl, using wood chopsticks to fish the orange, tangy rice into his mouth. “You know, as first born, he is granted those wings. It’s his rite.” He lowered the bowl, a faded grin crossing his lips. “I remember, he used to embellish them with the bones of his meals, hanging their cervicals and metacarpals and pieces of their skull across each wing like a charm bracelet. But myself? It is not my meals’ bones that I save.” He shook his head, picking up another sticky rice ball.

Suddenly, the demon paused. “Are you not going to eat?”

It was difficult to speak when the interior of your mouth felt coated with chalk. Inclined by fear rather than your hunger, you reached for a bread loaf, then broke its golden crust in half, listening to the satisfactory crackle.

“I was absorbed by your pretty voice,” you spoke with not a single intonation, “forgive me.”

As you tore a piece from the warm inside and poked it into your cheek, the pottery bowl which he held broke into pieces due to the crushing grip of his hand, orange rice and clay shards spilling onto the mat. You had visibly flinched. The demon’s body trembled as he inhaled a slow, subdue breath. 

“Dearest, if you ask me to lend my forgiveness, I will pierce a stake through your beating heart and pull it out onto my plate.” His teeth were claws in his mouth as he growled. “Do you understand?”

You hid your quivering, bottom lip by bringing a tin cup to your face, the slick formula of the wine flowing down your throat. It was thicker than the wine you drank at home, and there was a copper-like aftertaste that almost rendered your expression to pucker, but you remembered to keep staid.

“I understand.”

The void, starless nature to his gaze disappeared. Instead, his eyes returned to their settled oak. Allowing more wine to soak against your tongue, there was a distant familiarity to its unique flavour.

“Are there things you regret?” Minghao retrieved you from musing, and spooned some rosemary soup into his mouth.

Once more, you took another sip, swished the alcohol between your cheeks, and swallowed. The demon observed you with an intent eye. Something flashed against your memory. It was a pale face drained of its pink and lively colour. In fact, it was your husband’s face, Soonyoung’s face, right before you tipped his body over the ravine’s misty edge and into the gurgling chasm below.

He had been your last murder.

“I regret…” You began, lowering the wine, “I-I regret…”

A stutter. An emotion. An inkling of your distress. 

Minghao’s grasp around the soup pot tightened and the tattoos needled into his flesh seemed to slither as though they’d been disturbed. Your mind grew stifled with obnoxious imagery. It was too much, all at once, and this dizziness spun at the centre of your cranium like a comet in orbit.

You leaned further over the wine, staring blurry at the liquid.

“I regret… I r-regret…”

Then it came to you, the underlying taste of the wine. So familiar because you should have known it better than anyone, especially considering your habitual dirty work, how often that fluid caked under your fingernails and spattered your clothing. No, it was definitely not the bones Minghao kept. 

A moment later and you fainted onto the mat.

You awoke to a damp coolness folded against your forehead, and to Minghao who sat at the edge of his bed, where he had rested for three-hundred years. He removed the cloth and began dabbing it along each arch of your cheek, cleaned your jaw’s long edge, and at last wet your lips until they gleamed. Expelling a subtle breath, you kept your face as blank as possible.

“How do you feel?” He set away the cloth in order to sweep his sleight fingers down your temple.

“I’m well,” sounded your meek voice, “you have taken care of me.”

In between the black fringe that feathered the demon’s lashes, you met his eyes. Minghao’s hand slid to your throat, where his palm pressed flat against its column and his fingers curled taut with the sensation of hot steel. 

He felt you gulp.

“I implore that you bathe. Rid yourself of this fabric which has been stained by wine and broth. I will leave you undergarments and a robe.” He leaned in closer to your face, and you couldn’t help but glance at his jagged teeth when he said so adoringly, “my wish is to paint you. I would like clean flesh.”

Clad in nothing but the undergarments, Minghao stood before your body, holding a wooden bowl. The inside was smeared with a rustic-coloured substance that almost bore the same consistency as honey. His chosen brush had fanned bristles, and when he stroked their wetness along your skin, it was a smooth, somewhat ticklish feeling. You found yourself enjoying it. Specifically the longer strokes, ones that began at the top of your shoulder and licked across the soft underbelly of your arm, only to gently flit away at the brittle bones in your wrist.

He decorated you in content. 

As the boy lowered to his knees and illustrated unintelligible runes against your inner thigh, he was focused, sharp. Another dip into the wooden bowl, and Minghao moved to paint your other thigh. You examined the horns pushing between his hair. Without thought, you stroked your hand against one, feeling the small grooves that created every divot. The demon never stirred, but continued to paint down your leg, and you wondered if he truly hadn’t noticed your touch or perhaps quite liked the way you caressed him.

Despite the fact you were merely prey being toyed with until dinner time, when you looked at the demon who touched your skin and treated you with such reverence, you felt this unbeknownst tenderness in your heart.

As Minghao instructed you to raise a foot, he immediately stiffened.

“What is it?” You questioned flatly.

He set the bowl and brush down.

“Dearest, the soles of your feet are cut and raw. It appears worse than usual.”

You wobbled slightly, almost losing your balance. “I was shown no kindness on my journey to meet with you. Because I am your meal, I can ignore the stinging.”

“No,” Minghao shook his head and rose up, “I will wrap your feet in precious calendula leaves. The paint will dry quickly, then you can sit.”

“If I may ask one thing,” you remarked, fiddling with the sleeves of your robe, “how painful is it to have your soul devoured?”

Minghao plucked the last few calendula leaves from their flowers. The petals were rather striking, the aurora of a setting sun as you mother always described. It had been a longtime wish to see the sun one day, though considering your fate, such a dream must remain only that. The leaves swathed each foot with the help of a clear, sticky gel.  

“Very painful.” The demon responded. He shifted next to you on the bed, then grabbed one of the orange flowers. “This is why we sleep so far beneath the crust, so the people do not hear the meal’s delicious screams.” He grasped your hand which had suffered a slit from the watchman’s pocketknife, and he began to rub a flower bud across the wound.

“Do you remember your last meal?” You asked, staring at Minghao rather than the skin’s miraculous healing.

The demon looked straight into your eyes as he grinned. “I do remember,” he sounded wistful, “it had been three meals, since the man I consumed in an even further past had greatly upset me.” Minghao dropped the flower, slowly interlaced his fingers with yours, squeezing.

“I had treated him well. I cleaned his cuts, I allowed him to bathe, I offered him my finest silk, and then, when we ate, I asked him what he regretted.” His hand became colder than ice. Minghao’s eyes started to widen, illuminate with a shiny madness, and when he leaned in closer your every facial muscle was begging to twitch. “He cried to me. Can you believe it? I had never been so upset. It caused me to fill with rage. He wept for forgiveness, absolution, a relief from his pain. Who am I, but a being who takes pain like a supplement? In that moment, I leapt across the dinner table and devoured him. His soul tasted like salt and alloy. I could not eat his heart, which was given to my brother. He will always eat the heart, because it so plumped full of your terrible emotion.”

The demon’s hand fit to the side of your neck, his thumb stroking along a particular vein where your pulse was thundering. “Well,” he sighed, “not your terrible emotion, but most peoples.”

In that moment, you took your deepest breath, and did not respond until you were certain that not one note of your voice would tremble. “I understand.” You placed your hand overtop the demon’s as it continued to cradle your neck, “did you paint this man too?”

“No,” Minghao shook his head, “I use my paints sparingly.”

With a soft fingertip, he began to trace a thin line he had brushed. It started at your jaw, then fell down the length of your warm neck. It dragged across your collarbone and in between your chest. Over the ribs, to your stern hip. The fingertip circled sweetly against your inner thigh a few times, and at last glided to your knee where the demon’s touch drifted away like a summer breeze.  

“You are the most beautiful meal I have ever seen,” Minghao murmured, holding your gaze which threatened to water, “I was delighted to accent a body like yours, so gorgeous and strengthened by sin.”

Since your arrival at the demon’s bedroom, you knew it was vital to preserve a blank face, and yet, it came to a point where you could not restrict the whims of your emotion. A tear bled from your eye, your bottom lip started to quiver, and your brow pinched together in a wrinkle. There was fear to your gradual outbreak, but it was an infinitesimal fraction compared to your gratitude, that the second son could somehow honour you more than your own unfaithful husband, who’d been your last body discarded into the ravine. 

In reality, how different were you to this demon? Year after year, the suppleness of your heart became hardened with immorality, pummelled of its empathy and completely wrung from compassion like a soaked, heavy towel. A common routine: dragging a corpse through the wildlife, your lips pursed and whistling the tune you’d overhear the pig-tailed girl humming on her front lawn. Dump the body. Return home. Peel an apple, bake a pie, and feed a slice to your next victim, watching the froth dribble from their lips as you sipped your drink and folded a leg over your thigh. But that was life under the cinder sky. It’s what kept people mad, what kept the demons fed. Either flee or have the light of your being rubbed into another dark ash. 

The demon immediately turned rigid. 

His spine bristled straight and the tattoos started to crawl beneath his robe, rustling like serpents who navigated the tall grass. You figured your death would be the most painful, since you had not only broken at the last minute, but soiled the significance to Minghao’s paints, casted the illusion that you were not appreciative of his gestures. In a snapping wrench, he practically tore you from the velvet blanket, dragging you to a door in his bedroom.

When it was opened, a frigid wind dusted at your face, and a slender corridor was revealed, stretching so far that it led into complete blackness. With a hand against your lower back, Minghao shoved you into the tunnel.

“Go,” he demanded, his words echoing off the stone, “go and do not turn back.”

Your voice was breathy, confused, “I don’t understand. I-I—”

“It leads to an opening at the opposite side of the mountain. You will leave, and you will never-” he gripped your chin, and his gaze intruded even the most clandestine pockets to your soul, “ever return to this town. Escape these cinder skies. I will not repeat myself.”

Before you could make sense of anything, before the door could be slammed in your face, your solace left to the rock and damp air, you slipped a hand around the demon’s neck and kissed him. His mouth was just as soft as his voice, and when he angled his head to better taste the tears that  stained your lips, you felt it would be impossible to make this journey alone. The silk of his tongue brushed inside your mouth, causing your knees to tremble, therefore you gripped weakly at the demon’s hair. His sharp teeth pricked your bottom lip and it welted ever so slightly with blood.

“Come with me,” you begged, pressing your forehead to his, “please, do not go back to sleep.”

But Minghao merely giggled, and the fact that such an innocent sound could leave the chest of a demonic entity had disoriented you. 

“What creature are you?” Minghao hummed, “that I can see your emotion and only want to hold you closer? Maybe it is because you are the first meal to bare no regret. You know your flesh is stitched by the sin of your own hand. Even your sweet tears. Oh! My brother would adore you! Though he would’ve devoured you by now no doubt.” He gave a gentle shove, removing you from his body.

“Will you please come find me?” You entreated.

Time was of the essence. The tenebrosity seemed to have a curl on your ligaments, tugging you backward into the tunnel. 

Minghao smiled, his hand reaching out to wipe the blood from your sore lip.

“Dearest, I will come find your dark soul anywhere,” sounded his honest purr, “but I suggest you travel hastily. If I leave, I must first wake my brother, and the rage of a demon whose slumber has been interrupted... It cannot be compared to anything. I’m afraid you’ll faint again.”

Trusting that Minghao would seek you out, you began the journey down the tunnel, your hand swiping against the stone and your feet taking calculated steps. Amongst the black air, there was no concept of time. Seconds, minutes, hours, they felt ineffectual in a place where not even your own fingers or toes could be seen. Eventually, you came to a light that burned against your eyes, and emerged at the opposite side of the mountain, like Minghao promised. And as you padded into the jade forest, you felt one final vibration shake the pine needles scattered across the earth, heard some boulders from the mountainside crumble down in swirling, dry dust clouds. 

Shuddering, you knew it had been the abhorrent cry of the first born son. And for once your compulsion to escape the grey skies was a real desire. 

✧✎ a/n: yes.................... :) thinking that i could also make an au for jun in this universe? i will have to do some Major Thinking. i still have nothing to say! like i don’t know where this au crawled out of, but it’s Here now. it’s pretty morbid n freaky sfeheff but nonetheless i hope you liked it and as always i luv hearing ur guys TH0TS. 

[senpaistoys]

Rainy Days (Kim Seokjin, M)

The rain always has a way of putting you in a mood.

Pit.. Pat.. Pit.. Pat.. The sounds of the rain hitting your window filled throughout the relatively quiet house. You hummed softly, curling up your body onto the expanse of the wall that was pushed out from the window making a little bed right beside it. You had specifically had the windows designed that way so that you could watch the rain fall onto the grass. The dark cloudy skies, the trees and little flowers blowing in the wind as the storm took over your area. You snuggled deeper into your light brown fluffy blanket. The sound of soft r & b music playing in the house took over your ears slightly. It was such a beautiful day. You nor your lover had work today. Just a lazy day enjoying the rain. You watched a few cars pass out headed to and from taking their kids to school or taking themselves to work. You gave a slight yawn from the weather, tilting your head to press a button on your phone, you saw that it was only 10 AM. You gave a soft smile at the thoughts of how long the day was going to pass. And you hoped the weather stayed this way. You were leaning against the window letting your mind roam. But it started to roam down a very lewd direction and you didn't fight your fantasies. Not on a day like today. Never on a rainy day. Your turned your head once again, looking across the room to see Seokjin resting in a lazy boy chair. He had on his reading glasses, a thick black book in his large palms. He had his legs crossed one over the other. He looked so damn good reading. Your eyes trailed over to his whole appearance. You both slept late but Seokjin liked to cuddle so when you got up to watch the rain he knew his morning sleep was over with. His brown hair was still slightly disheveled from his sleep, he didn't make an effort to fix it when neither of you would leave the house today. He had on a black T-shirt and gray sweatpants. He wiggled his toes everytime he got to a good part of the book and you couldn't help but laugh as you noticed such a thing. Seokjin was handsome to you, in every aspect. He was caring and sweet. He was goofy and his dad jokes were a treasure. He was truly a man you fell head over heels for. But it was something about the way he puffed his pink lips out, the way his fingers flexed as he held the book. It also had to do with the rain. The soft drops still splattering against the window. The way you knew it was cold outside yet warm on the inside. You were in the mood. And you were about to get him there too. After staring at him for a while, you got up and walked towards him discarding the blanket on your previous resting area. Getting onto your knees you uncrossed his legs. Seokjin moved the book to the side to look at you while lifting an eyebrow. "What do you call yourself doing young lady?" He asked softly and you gave him a pout tugging onto his sweats. "I'm in the mood.." You called out and Seokjin pursed his lips. "Now? We just had a round before we slept." He reminded you. "That was then. This is now." You defended and Jin gave a roll of his eyes lifting his book back up. "Not right now baby. I'm reading!" He lightly whined. Part of you wanted to laugh at how cute he was being but another part of you wanted to be stubborn. "Jinnie.. Jin.. Seokjin.." You muttered out but he tried to keep stern. "Don't disturb my reading." He warned. You sat there feeling like a kicked kid. But as if the gods were on your side a light bulb flickered on in your mind. "I won't." You called out sweetly. Jin barely lowered his book to give you a questioning look before he had it back up and turning a page. You smirked and started to rub your hands up and down his inside thighs. You touched and felt up over his sensitive areas. Your hand moved its way towards his crotch rubbing over his limp shaft with your palm. You could feel him shift slightly, his grip on the book became tighter as he tried to ignore you. But you continued forward, rubbing at his bulge with soft strokes. Leaning forward you started to press kisses along the outline of his shaft until you could see his print. The great thing about lazy days at home was that Seokjin never wore boxers and you were the number one fan of it. You let your hand grip at him through his sweats and you started to stroke him with a soft mewl. You were so caught up in getting him hard, that when you looked up you damm near paused. Seokjin quickly shifted his eyes back to his book and a smirk graced your lips. You had him. Gripping at his sweats, you pulled them down his thighs to his knees. The male had shifted but he lifted his hips enough to help you take down his sweats. His shaft popped out, hitting against his lower stomach and resting there. The tip was red and angry. Your eyes skimmed the veins over his cock and you groaned licking the palm of your hand. You coated your palm with your spit and you wrapped your fingers around his hardened shaft starting to stroke him up and down. Every time your spit dried up, you would add more by licking up and down the expanse of his cock. Your tongue mapping out his sensitive spots on the underside of his shaft. Your pink muscle traced over every vein on the sides, top, and bottom. When he was completely wet your hand gripped at him once more and you focused on giving him a hand job. You lived for how his legs flexed as he tried to restrain himself. The way his body went completely rigid. He wasn't even flipping pages anymore because he wasn't even paying attention to the book. You worked your wrist flicking it quickly as precum oozed from the tip. You gave a soft moan, shifting on your knees as you smeared the precum onto the head of his shaft with your index finger. Seokjin released one soft sigh. That was all you needed. You could feel your panties dampening as you teased him. You were getting so turned on you thought you would loose it. You took him into your mouth, lowering your head down slowly until he was resting against the back of your throat. "Fuck!" Seokjin cursed out in slight defeat. He quickly pushed the book down onto the little table beside the chair. He used one hand to take off his glasses as the other hand gripped onto your hair at the back of your neck. He kept you in place, letting you hold your mouth open as he felt it. "You may move now." He instructed in that deep voice that sent trembles down your spine and heat straight to your core. You started to bob your head slowly, hollowing your cheeks as you sucked onto his shaft. You made wet slurping noises as you moved your head up and down. Your eyes flickering upwards to take his appearance in. Head thrown back, lips parted into a soft moan. Eyebrows knitted. He was lost in the pleasure you were giving him. It made you want to please him more, gripping at his balls you started to play with them one by one. You squeezed at his sack and he gave soft hiss, his body trembling against the chair as he tugged onto your hair once more. "Take a breath." He warned you and you pulled your head back slowly, sucking in air as you went upwards. Your mouth sucked onto his tip as you greedily inhaled like he warned "Take me in. I am about to face fuck you." Seokjin warned. You did as commanded, taking him down as much as you could. Seokjin let his head come up. Looking down at you, he planted his feet and started to push his hips up. Slowly at first but he gradually picked up the pace. He was sliding in and out of your mouth like it was your pussy. The male moaned as he kept his eyes on yours. He was face fucking you, drool falling from the corners of your mouth and sliding down to his balls. He shuddered at the wet feeling trying to make sure he took in how your face looked as you sucked him. "I'm going to cum in your mouth." He rasped as he slowed his hips down. He pushed them in and out, flexing his thigh muscles as his head rolled back once more. He pushed his cock into your mouth as if he could push it down your throat causing you to lightly choke. With a cry of your name, Seokjin pulled back slightly to cum in your mouth. It was a lot taking in his warm cum. Slightly sweet but mostly bitter as he released his load in your mouth. You swallowed what you could and you pulled back to lick him clean. You were about to pull his pants up and leave but he stopped you. "Where are you going?" He asked and you became sheepish. "Well. I did what I wanted to do." You admitted licking your lips. "But did I say I was done?" He asked and the way he asked you made you shake your head side to side. "Turn around." Seokjin said and you did so. He gripped at your hips and walked you backwards until you were sitting on his lap. "Feet on my legs." He demanded and you followed his instruction. All you had on was one of his oversized shirts and that was it. Seokjin lifted up the book as he wrapped his arms around you. "Read to me." He said simply. You followed where he tapped his finger and you started to read the love story. You were getting lost into the short reading you did. Turning the second page and you felt one of his hands palm your pussy. You paused and gasped as his fingers ran up and down the expanse of your pussy. "Don't stop reading. I wanted a story time and you distracted me. Now you need to read." He said simply humming as you continued. Seokjin let his middle finger slip between your pussy lips. Rubbing up and down your slit, he teased your pussy before his finger was circling around your clit. You tried your best to read but the way he rubbed onto your clit had you moaning and clearing your throat. Your thighs tightened slightly as he teased you. Turning another page, you almost faltered as he pushed his middle and ring finger inside of you. He started to thrust his long slender fingers in and out of your pussy. His free hand had drifted under your shirt to play with your breast. Pinching and pulling your nipples before he started to grope your mounds with his hand. Both hands worked on your body and you could care less about the damn story. His fingers started to scissor you open, pumping in and out with a crook as your hips bucked forward to fuck yourself on his fingers. "My baby girl is always so needy. Look at you riding my fingers. You make it seem like I didn't even feed you my cock last night. So wet.. This pussy is telling me it needs more. It missed me." He taunted kissing on the shell of your ear. Your face was red as he whispered dirty little words into your ear. He searched for your spot pushing his fingers deep and it was your turn to throw the book down. "I want your dick inside of me, Seokjin." You begged looking at him with wide eyes. Cheeks red, face flushed as you begged. Jin nodded his head kissing your lips as he continued to finger you. He slowed his fingers down and took them out to smear your juices across his dick. "Put me in." He said softly and you obliged quickly. You gripped onto his cock and you lifted your hips and slid onto his shaft. Both of you moaned in unison as he filled you up. You moved to grip onto the arms of the chair and use it as leverage to bounce yourself up and down onto his cock. Your head rolled back as he filled you up. You rode him like you needed him. Seokjin moaned using both hands to fondle you. Your pussy sucked his cock in. You were so wet he slipped out of you a few times and you were both so eager to slip him back inside every time. You turned your head to face him and met his lips into a kiss. Seokjin licked across your bottom lip and you parted your lips for him. He let his tongue glide against yours as he hooked his arms under your knees. Seokjin spread you out wide, folding you into a pretzel he snapped his hips upward. His cock curving to hit right against that spot that you need him the most. You broke the kiss to moan out in shock. Looking at him wth tears in your eyes from how good it felt. One of your hands lifted to grip onto his hair. You pressed your forehead's together as he pounded into you. Bottoming out, he made sure you felt every inch of him. "Rub your clit for me, baby. I want to see you make a mess of yourself." He said with a broken voice. You nodded reaching your hand down to rub your clit at the pace that he fucked you. Your lips against his you simply moaned against his lips and voiced out how good it felt. Your toes curled and your head rolled back onto his shoulder. You slapped at your clit, with a few more snaps of his hips you were gripping at his thigh with your free hand while he drove you over the edge. His name slipping out of your mouth like a mantra. Seokjin groaned, his cock throbbing and he continued to fuck into you. He let his nails dig into your inner thighs and he fucked you through a second orgasm before he was holding your hips down and emptying his load back inside of you. Both of you slowly rocked your hips to ride out your orgasm as he lowered your legs down. Once you were both calmed, he held you pressing soft kisses along your head chuckling softly. "What's funny?" You asked peeking up at him. Seokjin pointed at the window. "You'd think by now you would remember to close the blinds since we always end up fucking in here when it rains." Seokjin muttered and you looked towards the open window feeling your whole body turn red. "You need to tell me this!" You yelled lightly trying to get up but Jin kept you still. "It's our house. Besides, if anyone is outside in this weather watching us get it on than they deserve to look.” Jin cooed reassuringly as he slid his hands up and down your back.

[dialovers-translations]

Diabolik Lovers VANDEAD CARNIVAL ;; Reiji Route ー Finale Ending

ー The scene starts in the castle

Yui: ( Phew...I’m glad I was finally able to take a bath. )

( I’m sure that got rid of the perfume’s scent...Right? )

...Haah...

( That being said, so many things happened today... )

( However... )

( The little perfume bottle Reiji-san gifted me... )

( I was so happy with it, but it broke... )

( I have to properly apologize afterwaーー )

*Knock knock*

Reiji: ーー Yui, have you finished getting ready?

Yui: ( Wah! Reiji-san!? )

W-Wait, please! I haven’t fully dried my hair yeーー

ー He steps inside

Yui: R-Reiji-san!

Reiji: Aah...You are still in the middle of getting ready?

Yui: I-If you can see that, then please hurry up and leave the room...!

Reiji: Why are you still getting embarrassed by this now?

Yui: Because...

Reiji: No matter which part of you I see, I won’t feel any particular way.

Or perhaps...You are planning to use your non-existent sex appeal to its fullest potential to try and seduce me?

Yui: I-I won’t!

Reiji: Oh dear? I believe you mean to say ‘I can’t’?

Yui: ( Uu...He doesn’t have to rub it in... )

Reiji: Well then, the banquet will commence shortly.

Hurry up and finish your preparations. We are the stars of the evening after all.

Yui: Y-Yes...

*TIMESKIP*

 ー The scene shifts to the dance hall

Reiji: ーー We’ve arrived. This is where the banquet will take place.

Yui: ( S-So many people... )

( I heard it would be a big party, but I didn’t expect so many people to have gathered... )

Karlheinz: Citizens of the Demon World. Enjoy this moment to the fullest!

ーー Cheers!

Male Vampire B: Cheers!

Female Vampire C: Cheers!

*Cling cling*

Reiji: Come on,, take a glass. Let us toast as well.

Well then...Cheers.

Yui: Cheers...!

Male Vampire B: This year’s Carnival was even more of a blast than usual.

Female Vampire C: Exactly. This kind of stuff isn’t bad every once in a while.

Yui: ( It feels kind of weird to attend a party in the Demon World... )

Reiji: Well then, let us go.

Yui: Go...?

Reiji: The star of the banquet should not remain a wall flower forever, no?

Yui: ...Ah...

Reiji: ...Take a careful look at your surroundings. The other attendees are looking for us.

Male Vampire B: I heard the Queen is a young human maiden but...Could it be the lady over there...?

Female Vampire C: ...Yes, I’m sure she’s the one. If Reiji-sama is standing by her side, there’s no mistaking it...

Yui: ( Now that he mentioned it, I do feel the stares... )

( We were told that me and Reiji-san are the stars of today after all. )

( I get nervous knowing that we’re the centre of attention... )

Reiji: Come on, straighten your back. Those with a leading role must look firm and resolute.

Yui: Y-Yes...!

Reiji: Exactly, that is perfect. Well...Like that, you definitely look like a proper, young lady.

Yui: Reiji-san...

Reiji: Well then, let us go. I shall introduce you to everyone.

Yui: ( I have to make sure Reiji-san doesn’t feel ashamed standing next to me. )

ー They walk off together

*TIMESKIP*

Yui: ( I guess we’re done with our tour around the party hall now? )

Phew...

Reiji: ...Oh dear, what is the matter? The star of the evening is sighing.

Yui: I suppose it’s from talking to so many different people, but I’m a little tired it seems.

Reiji: Good grief, a little pathetic just from chit-chatting, don’t you think?

However, well...I was just about to get tired of small talk as well.

There is no reason for us to stay here any longer. I shall be returning to my room.

Yui: ( ...Ah, I have to apologize for breaking the present first... )

Reiji-san, please wait. There’s something I have to tell you...

Reiji: Yes? What is it? Please keep it short.

Yui: Yes, well...

I’m sorry for breaking the perfume bottle you were so kind to gift me.

Reiji: Aah. Please do not let it bother you. So? What about the main question?

Yui: Eh? Well...That was the main question.

I hadn’t properly apologized yet after all...

Reiji: ...You were worried about such a thing?

Haah...There is no reason for you to apologize.

If it had not broken like that, things would have only escalated from there.

Personally, that would have been much more troublesome for me.

Yui: That might be true but...

Reiji: ...Well, it was most definitely a unique, valuable find, but if you wish, I can get you as many of them as your heart desires.

If you liked it, I can have an exact copy delivered by tomorrow.

Yui: ...

But, that’s not the problem.

Even if I get the same thing, it is still different from the one I got before.

There’s only one of the bottle I received directly from your hands back then...

Reiji: ...

Yui: I’m sorry for saying all of this...

Reiji: ...Good grief...You are unbelievable...

Yui: Uhm...I truly am sorry. Are you upset?

Reiji: Oh please. I am not so petty to get mad over a single bottle of perfume.

Yui: Reiji-san...

Reiji: Is that all you wanted to say? ーー In that case, let us go.

There is something...I have to tell you now as well.

...I am convinced that tonight, nobody will get in our way either.

Yui: ...?

( I wonder what he wants to talk about...? )

*TIMESKIP*

Yui: Reiji-san, can I open my eyes now?

Reiji: You can not. Stay like that until I give you a sign.

Yui: Okay...

( I wonder why he had me change into a dress afterwards...? )

( Reiji-san is very persistent about wearing the proper clothes for the right occassion after all... )

*Creaaaak*

Yui: ( The sound of the wind? Are we outside perhaps...? )

Reiji: ...Well then, I suppose here will do. You can open your eyes now.

ー Yui opens her eyes

*Rustle rustle*

Reiji: As to be expected, it fits you like a glove. My eye did not fail me this time.

Yui: ...Reiji-san...This is?

Reiji: Oh dear? You don’t know? Seems like the banquet really took its toll on you. What else could it possibly be but a ring?

Yui: Uhm...You are giving this to me?

Reiji: I do plan to. But what will you do if I claim this is meant for someone else?

Yui: ...Well...I would be very sad.

Reiji: I am highly pleased with your honesty. In that case, I shall give this to you.

Yui: T-Thank you very much...

But, when did you buy this...?

Reiji: At Reine de Saba. That small bottle of perfume was not the only purchase I made at said store.

Furthermore...This ring also possesses a special power.

Yui: A special power?

*Rustle*

Reiji: It’s an anti-cheating measure.

Yui: Cheating...!? I definitely wouldn’t do that!

Reiji: I wonder. You seemed so very easily lured in by the Devil’s Tree though, no?

Yui: Well, I might have been a little bewitched by the power of its flowers back then...

However, I would definitely never cheat on you.

Reiji: Hooh? And why is that?

Yui: ...Because I...love you, Reiji-san.

Reiji: Good to hear you’re honest.

Well, I was just kidding when I said it prevents cheating.

Yui: ( Uu, Reiji-san, you meanie. )

( But... )

( I know that he actually has a really nice side as well. )

Reiji: Well then, shall we return? I would rather not have you catch a cold and have to deal with the trouble afterwards.

Yui: Fufu, roger!

ーー THE END ーー

[givemearmstopraywith]

hello! i love your blog a lot, it's aesthetics are beautiful and i find myself drawn to it during what i guess i would call a bit of a religious crisis. i've always considered myself a pagan, felt drawn to old gods and what not, but i'm currently feeling drawn to saints, and I guess the idea of God how he is perceived as a singular God in monotheistic religions, though I will always believe in every spiritual form. i was wondering if you would feel comfortable elaborating a bit on you being drawn to God in the beginning, and maybe a bit on how you worship him? if that is too personal of an ask, please don't worry about it, i just relate to the experiences you have described and would love to hear more of you are okay with sharing.

hello angel. thank you so much for reaching out to me- i’m truly honoured that you trust me enough to reach out to as you enter another phase of your spiritual journey. this isn’t too personal of an ask at all, and i’m genuinely glad you reached out. 

in order to explain all of this i feel i need to give a bit of context to my spirituality. i have an advantage in that growing up i was, essentially, jewish at home, and went to church on sundays. my mother is enormously spiritual and exposed me to both eastern and western religion when i was very young: i think i started reading the bible when i was four. however, i had a major religion crisis when i was in my early teens that eventually turned to pure atheism. i didn’t understand God because i was learning about him in a human way, and a human god doesn’t really make sense. when that felt too hopeless, led to explorations of witchcraft, thelema, hermeticism, and paganism. all of those things still influence my spirituality today because they’re all very closely intertwined, and they are all equally “real”, for lack a better term, in their own way. but they never particularly felt like home for me. like i was wearing a shirt that was just a bit too small. 

two things changed my understanding of God: the first is that God loves, truly loves, every single person, because every single person is part of him. there is not a single person on this earth that i can judge because God loves all of them: God rejects no one unless they act from a place of utter and complete selfishness, which is the epitome of sin. the other is that all faith, all religion, all belief- yes, even atheism- spring from the same source: that is what i call God. i think its reductive to think of God as a singular being. he’s both everything and a single being. this is based on my study of jewish kabbalah, which is a closed practice and thus not something i’m going to go into much detail on here, simply because i don’t want to inspire anyone into reading or learning about something which is exceptionally advanced (it’s too advanced for me, but i came into it the wrong way- you’re not supposed to study it unless you have many years of learning, as i later found out- and now its inextricable from my faith). in any case, this idea of- what you might call- a pluralized God utterly changed my understanding of him. all gods, old and new, are part of one and the same God, who utterly transcends human understanding. all of this preamble is to say that God calls all of us in different but equally valid ways- he calls to one of my friends through hecate, to another through astarte, and he called me specifically through what i grew up with. that is home to me. 

the reason i give this preamble is because for me, worshipping God, from my tradition, is a bit different than what i think is commonly understood. i’ve mentioned before that i don’t go to church; this is partly by choice and partly not. i don’t have an altar, but i do have a place in my room with some saints’ statues and prayer cards, candles, dried flowers: this mimics the kind of ritual i crave from church. i also try to pray every night- i don’t succeed at this as often as i would like, but it is one of the most peaceful, spiritually refreshing things i can do: but this isn’t so much worship as communion. it’s hard to explain how i worship God because i try to make everything i do a form of worship. God has utterly subsumed me, so i feel conscious that everything i do and think is cradled in his hand. nothing i do is separate from him. so my friendships are a form of worship, the way i love people is a form of worship, loving myself is also a form of worship and it’s very, very difficult. i try live completely consciously- i fail spectacularly, but i’m trying. i am braided to God. i don’t take time out to worship and i make no offerings, because i am the offering: my heart is the offering and i let him eat it. and it is somehow a very pure, very true love, because he offers his own heart to me and that sustains me in turn. the saints are right in the way their writing of God sounds like falling in love: i am utterly in love with God and i know that no one on earth will love me like God can love me. saints often feel like friends, in that their understanding of God matches my own: i have a number that i feel especially drawn to, but- and this is probably a weird comparison- it’s a bit like drawing tarot: some saints i feel exceptionally compelled towards, some i don’t, and that is how i built the coterie of saints who i study. (i don’t pray to saints, but i do look to their words for guidance.) this is turning into a bit of a ramble now, and i really hope i’ve answered your questions, but please don’t hesitate to drop me another message if you want to talk about this more! i wish you so much goodness on this journey. 

[thebadgerclan]

SFW Alphabet: Lily Evans

Requested by Anonymous

A/N: Written on my phone, so forgive any errors.

A = Affection (How affectionate are they? How do they show affection?)

Sweet little forehead kisses, keeping an arm around you, little gifts, is how Lily shows affection

B = Best friend (What would they be like as a best friend? How would the friendship start?)

She’s a very reliable person, as a best friend, you know you can count on her

C = Cuddles (Do they like to cuddle? How would they cuddle?)

Lily loves cuddling. She’ll hold you on her lap, arms tight around you, nose in your hair. Also spooning, she just loves holding you

D = Domestic (Do they want to settle down? How are they at cooking and cleaning?

She does want to settle down. Lily wants kids, a home, the works, with you

E = Ending (If they had to break up with their partner, how would they do it?)

She’d be honest with you, wanting you to know the truth, but also trying to spare your feelings. “I’m sorry, Y/N, this just isn’t working out.”

F = Fiance(e) (How do they feel about commitment? How quick would they want to get married?)

Lily proposed shortly after the two of you are out of Hogwarts. Your wedding is soon after, maybe 2-3 months after she proposes

G = Gentle (How gentle are they, both physically and emotionally?)

Lily’s super gentle with you. You’re her girl, she’s always sweet and soft with you.

H = Hugs (Do they like hugs? How often do they do it? What are their hugs like?)

Her hugs are warm and secure. Lily hugs you often, tight but brief squeezes.

I = I love you (How fast do they say the L-word?

About 8 months into the relationship, when you’re lying with your head in her lap in the common room

J = Jealousy (How jealous do they get? What do they do when they’re jealous?)

Lily’s very chill, she’s not really the jealous type. She knows you’re faithful to her, so if someone’s flirting with you, she’s unlikely to be jealous.

K = Kisses (What are their kisses like? Where do they like to kiss you? Where do they like to be kissed?)

Lily loves kissing your forehead, your cheek, lips, nose, basically your whole face. She likes being kissed on her lips, cheek, nose, basically the same places as you.

L = Little ones (How are they around children?

She adores kids. Lily wants kids more than anything else, adopted, biological w/ a donor, she just wants a baby

M = Morning (How are mornings spent with them?)

She’s a late riser, so you’ll likely wake to her holding you tight, mumbling for “5 more minutes”

N = Night (How are nights spent with them?)

Cuddled into her chest, her hands playing with your hair, lips on your temple

O = Open (When would they start revealing things about themselves? Do they say everything all at once or wait a while to reveal things slowly?)

She’s an open book. There’s nothing Lily wants to keep from you, if you ask about something, she’ll most likely tell yiu

P = Patience (How easily angered are they?)

Similarly to J, Lily is very patient. She’s very chill, she never shouts, and she’s overall very relaxed

Q = Quizzes (How much would they remember about you? Do they remember every little detail you mention in passing, or do they kind of forget everything?)

Lily remembers all the important things, but she must forget something like your favorite book. But your birthday, she 100% remembers.

R = Remember (What is their favorite moment in your relationship?)

You brought her a lily flower on her birthday. “A flower for my girl,” you’d said, kissing her cheek. “Happy birthday, honey.”

S = Security (How protective are they? How would they protect you? How would they like to be protected?)

Lily trusts you to take care of yourself, but if there’s a situation where you niche get hurt, she’s sort of like “Hey love, maybe we shouldn’t do that…”

T = Try (How much effort would they put into dates, anniversaries, gifts, everyday tasks?)

Lily knows what you like, and she’s more than happy to splurge for you. Fancy dinners, flowers, expensive food, Lily’s gonna give it to you

U = Ugly (What would be some bad habits of theirs?)

She’s hard on herself, and she needs someone to build her up

V = Vanity (How concerned are they with their looks?)

I’d say average. She puts in a fair amount of effort, doing her hair and makeup everyday, but she’s not afraid to go to class with a messy bun and a bare face

W = Whole (Would they feel incomplete without you?)

Lily loves you, but I feel like if you break up, she’d move on pretty fast. But she’s devoted to you, so she has no plans for that

X = Xtra (A random headcanon for them.)

She keeps the lily you gave her, pressed and dried, in a frame on her nightstand

Y = Yuck (What are some things they wouldn’t like, either in general or in a partner?)

Lily can’t be with someone who doesn’t love her for her. She needs to know that you’re not just with her for her looks, or something else

Z = Zzz (What is a sleep habits of theirs?)

When you’re not with her, Lily spoons a pillow