#there are so many unknown observations and I know there are people making a pretty big effort to get through them

[thethingything]

the plants (green) are slowly taking over our iNat IDs for this year but it's purely from going through the "unknown" observations and IDing them to the kingdom or phylum level so someone who knows what they're doing can actually find and ID them properly

meanwhile I think the majority of the insect IDs (orange) are various lycaenidae species which once again are not at all what I thought we'd be identifying the most but here we are

[bohemianblasphemy]

This song, a secret relationship with Spencer where everyone is flirting with his girlfriend because no one knows they’re together. Spencer gets anxious about it until he finally cracks and says “She belongs to me.” 🥰

He’s so cute I melt everytime 🥲

It was a rare event that the BAU was able to hold any form of event- let alone a bustling office party.

Soft music, clinking glasses and conversations filled the bullpen as you walked in, taking in the familiar surroundings.

You had opted to wear a black mid length dress- not too formal, not too casual but it was enough to turn heads, gazes falling upon you.

There was only one set of eyes hat you were focused on however, ones the belonged to one Spencer Reid.

He stood talking to Emily- chewing her ear off with some of his many fun facts of wisdom, before he caught your figure from the corner of his eye, turning to look at you.

Those brown eyes raked over how you looked in that dress- God it took all his strength to not lose his mind over how you looked. Spencer smiled at your arrival, his eyes gleaming with affection for you.

You mirrored that same glance toward him, seeing him in a nice button up shirt with the top two buttons undone with black slacks.

Spencer and yourself had been together for a while- this was unknown to other as you kept to yourselves, not out of shame but just to keep things private, for your eyes only.

The clandestine dates to a museum or gallery, staying at each others apartments, sneaky glances and touches as you sat next to each other on the jet… it was exhilarating.

But it was hard to keep it secret when people around you kept checking you out.

You walked down the few steps into the sea of people, exchanging hellos and small talk as you made your way over to Spencer, before a familiar voice from behind called to you.

“God sweetheart… you look good.”

Turning on your heel, Derek Morgan grinned at you- his eyes roving over how you looked at the front. “Thank you Morgan.” You replied, looking at him as he crossed his arms, continuing his compliments.

“No like… you look straight out of a movie, that dress on you is gorgeous, baby.” He chuckled his eyes glazing over you again.

Spencer could see Morgan’s eyes over you from across the way, his jaw clenching as he stood there with you.

Albeit Morgan was harmless in his words, Spencer couldn’t help but feel the pang of jealousy that coursed through him. He knew that you wouldn’t be reciprocating his flirty remarks, but just the thought of his girl being chatted up to by someone else made him irritated.

You were his, and no one was going to take you away from him.

“Hey Reid, you okay?” Emily waved her hand in front of his eyes, grounding him back from his trance. Her eyes turned to the direction of where he was gazing to, seeing Morgan and yourself talking.

“Sorry.. just- just a bit distracted, will you excuse me a moment?” He smiled half heartedly at Emily, before walking toward you. “O-oh okay…” she mumbled, watching on confused as Spencer make a beeline to you.

“No Morgan, you know that I’m not going to go anywhere else but my own home tonight…” you rolled your eyes at Derek’s joke about him taking you home, before you felt a familiar arm snake around your waist.

Spencer stood beside you, his hand on your hip- a display of affection that was once done in secrecy, now in front of a work colleague and close friend.

Looking up at him, you gave him a puzzled look, which he reciprocated with his charmingly awkward smile he had adorned on his face- the glint of adoration in his eyes as he looked at you.

Morgan’s expression turned amused at Spencer’s display, cocking an eyebrow. “Hey there pretty boy… feeling cosy there?” He chuckled, observed the both of you.

Spencer turned slightly to face you, looking down at your eyes and lips before leaning in to give you a soft kiss- which was a shock to your system, your eyes widening as you both locked lips in front of Derek.

Derek’s eyes nearly popped out of his head in shock, along with various staff members gasping or whooping at the two of you in your embrace.

Spencer pulled away and held you close to him, leaving you breathless at the situation as you watched him turn his head to Derek.

“She belongs to me…” he said, looking at him with an unreadable expression as Derek jokingly raised his hands in surrender. “It’s all good man, she’s all yours… catch up later yeah?” he chuckled winking at the both of you as he walked away as Spencer nodded in response to him.

You were still in shock- not only from the kiss that you both shared, but now the cat was out of the bag of your relationship. “W-what was that?” I whispered, looking up at him.

“That was me not letting another person take your love away from me…” he said, flashing another smile at you- making you giggle at his jealous nature that had come to the surface. “Such a dork…” you joked, bringing him in for another kiss- a solidifying moment of not being so secretive about your relationship with each other anymore.

[atrologynuances]

astrology observations pt 3

these are based on personal observations as well as acquired knowledge from books, websites, and other observation posts.

(some of these are brutally honest and some are very very general)

all signs included!!

⚜️ aries mercury are the type of people whose intelligence you don’t hear because their voice is too loud. oftentimes they’re described as hardheaded or bold when in reality they’re the reality check not everyone is ready to cash out. they’re also fairly messy, too many thoughts with no clear direction.

⚜️ aries men make for irresponsible fathers. the ones that are present but in reality they aren’t.

⚜️ libra placements can be very charming! however, this charm can become obnoxious and overstimulating very fast.

⚜️ I never hear anyone talk about how beautiful the eyes of scorpio risings are!! not only captivating and mysterious but they look like they hold the weight of the world in them and with that comes the secrets of manipulating you without you ever finding out. like an online library with an organized database and when they look for your name there, they know all your secrets.

⚜️ talking about scorpio risings, do any of you have weird experiences while you sleep? sleepwalking, sleep talking, people being scared of you when you’re sleeping?

⚜️ natives with north node in the 4th might have more conflicts at home when they find a full time job. it is hard to find a balance between the home and work life. this is more prominent if the north node is aspecting a malefic planet.

⚜️ a specific placement that will love their pet like a mother loves their baby is moon in the 6th!

⚜️ natives with pluto in the 10th house have to change jobs often because their coworkers subconsciously feel these people are overqualified for the job and envy them or envy how fast they were able to get promoted so they start hating on them. this creates a tense energy within the workplace making the pluto native to just quit the job and move onto the next. I find that there is nothing a pluto in the 10th house can’t master.

⚜️ natives with chiron in the 11th house attract friends with the same sun sign chiron is sitting on. this might be true with other chiron placements but it is especially true with chiron in the 11th. the sun sign person will bring challenges and leave the chiron native in the cold. the sun person also tends to belittle the chiron person a lot, thinking they are better than them.

⚜️ most taurus women have long torsos and short legs. I find that they’re also more prone to getting plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures. also, they have a very standardized beauty, like they don’t have a specific feature that sticks out, their face just blends together very prettily to the eye. i’ve also noticed they like gold or gold colored jewelry.

⚜️ gemini risings have gapped teeth. they also tend to have a bigger head than the rest of their body and be on the skinnier side. one thing i’ve noticed is that their energy feels light and familiar but also unknown. like a new friend whose vibes you like but you don’t really know much about them.

⚜️ unevolved gemini moons have a need to be liked by people; they want to feel and be included. in general, when you hear about them from other people they sound mean and intimidating, but when you get to know them they’re actually pretty cool to talk to. they also make for great listeners, and will have you saying things you wouldn’t have confessed to other people as easily or fast lol.

⚜️ sagittarius mercuries are story tellers! what I love about them is they know how to identify the interesting points with the ones that aren’t so their story is always fun to listen to. the thing with them is they’ll tell you the same story multiple times lol.

⚜️ I have personally noticed that cancer mars MEN are more likely to commit domestic violence. this is a very broad accusation I know. it is just an observation i’ve made with celebrities and men with this placement around me. they tend to act out on their current emotions. on the other hand, cancer mars women are veryyyy passive aggressive lol.

⚜️ venus in leo always attract people that get them better jobs, better deals on something or an upgrade of some sort lol. or they tend to be in good terms with a superior which later helps them get promoted.

⚜️ virgo mars are hard workers!!! I love love love this mars sign. they can come off as know it alls sometimes but sometimes they do know it all lol. a lot of actual life experience. they’re the ones you should call if you’re looking for a job, because they always know of a place that is hiring lol. if you ever need something done efficiently, call a virgo mars! not only are they willing to do it, keep if between you two, but they also do it well! three for one deal.

⚜️ a lot of capricorns make bad friends. they’re not the type to embarrass you in front of people type of bad friend, I find that brings embarrassment to them as well and they can’t have that. they are the type to belittle you throughout the friendship to check off their competition list though lol.

⚜️ aquariuses fall in love with their friends a lot! even when they are in a relationship, they still fall in love with other people. they’re very individualistic and if they think being with someone else will bring them happiness they will pursue that without caring about their current situation. that’s why they’re more prone to “sleep around” lol.

⚜️ pisces risings daydream a lot, sometimes they’re ashamed of how far they go when daydreaming. also, pisces risings might look like they’re on cloud nine, but nine times out of ten, they read the room before stepping a foot in it. i’ve also noticed that sometimes they act gullible just to see how others react to it. like you think you’re manipulating them but they’re the ones manipulating you by letting you think they’re actually getting manipulated lol.

guide

[yan-lorkai]

Hello, I just found your blog and I saw that you didn't have anything written yet, could you write a Yandere Alucard x reader?, where Alucard knows that his love is not like a normal one, but he still wants to love and care for the reader in his own way? I don't know if you could understand me, English is not my language.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ A/N: English isn't my first language either, darling, but don't worry. You're pretty good and I can understand you just fine! Normally when the requester doesn't specify what format they want, I write headcanons. But for this one I went with a drabble, hope you like it! 〜⁠(⁠꒪⁠꒳⁠꒪⁠)⁠〜

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ Warnings: yandere content, non consensual cuddling, implied kidnapping.

Alucard is not one for meaningless sentimentality, if he ever was when he was still human. He doesn't know, can't remember anything before turning into the monster he is today, shrouded by shadows and blood, by vicious bloodlust and thrill of the chase. One thing he remembers though it's love.

Ephemeral, fragile love that humans spend almost all their lives trying to get. Eternal, unconditional love that can swept anyone from their own feet. He's not going to admit it but love was something unknown to him.

Alucard has watched love blossom and change through the ages. Even if he can't remember now, he probably was loved by his parents, his mother probably engulfed him in her arms to protect him from harm, to make him feel safe and loved. Even now he watched and listened and observed love in its pure form, soft and happy, and all around him. He knows enough to know that his love it's tainted and impure just like him. It's all consuming, it's cruel, but he is a cruel monster ready to take and never be satisfied.

He can torn vampires to bits, can disconnect heads from their bodies and bathe in the blood of each of his enemies. Battles against ghouls became orchestrated displays of his commitment, each confrontation a macabre testament of his devotion to you. If only you could see it like this but you were always wary around him, scowling uncomfortably at his bloodied state and dismissing his gifts. Though he suppose eyes and bones don't make good gifts.

His slender fingers continue to tap rhythmically on the arm of the chair. The sound echoing loudly though the palpable silence that plagued your room. You are such a fragile little human, he could crush you so easily beneath his fingers. Could strangle and hear your whimpers and groans, could see the life leave your eyes just like he's seen it in so many other people. But he choose not to.

Instead, he should bring you a heart or a brain. Maybe even the entire corpse. Would that scare you too much though? He doesn't think so.

You're entertaining to watch and you make him feel things he thought he would never feel. For now, he's happy with this, he's happy watching you snuggling against your pillows, wrapped in the soft covers that hid you from the world.

Alucard's red eyes fixed on you with an intensity that could send shivers down your spine if you were awake. His love for you was unlike anything mortal — a dark and possessive force that lingered between obsession and protection. You, a mere human, were unaware of the affection that he had for you. Not for long though.

Deciding not to deny himself any further, Alucard moved. Without making a sound he plopped himself into your bed and pulled you into his arms, where you belong. He doesn't care if you wake up, far from this judging by the sly little smile that grows on his lips. Your head found its place in his chest, your warm breath almost tickling his neck.

He doesn't sleep. He doesn't need it but for a moment he closes his eyes. The blood pulsating on your veins being like a lullaby to him.

He always watched you from the shadows, his crimson gaze a constant companion, but his patience it's at its limit. You either doesn't notice his love for you or you are ignoring it, but he had enough of watching from afar and playing around, he gave you a choice. It was unspoken but you still had a chance for you to come forward and reciprocate his feelings before he take things on his own hands.

His love is not good for you, he know. And he knows he's going to ruin you but he doesn't care. What's matter it's that he has you, like a bunny snared in his trap and soon you be forever bound by his side. Not even his master could help you.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Hiii I know you’ve talked about Lilia and Silver’s relationship before but how about Lilia and Malleus’s? He’s one of Lilia’s “sons” too, the first! I’d like to hear how you see their father-son relationship.

cbjsbsjwjskdn So strange!! I feel like I haven’t really talked much about Lilia and Malleus’s father-son relationship even though I’m such a sucker for family-related drama… Well, now is as good of a time as any!

***Please note: there are spoilers for 7-68+ in the main story; if you are comfortable with late book 7 spoilers, then please proceed with reading below the cut!***

Book 7 has made it pretty evident that Malleus thinks the world of Lilia and is willing to go to great lengths to protect him. Their bond is something that has been alluded to many times over prior to this point though!

Malleus has mentioned that Lilia trained him when he was younger. He did have formal tutors, but it was Lilia who instilled survival skills in him and taught him lessons unable to be learned through just a textbook. We get to observe one such scene via a flashback, which shows the aftermath of one of Malleus’s fits. The castle and various staff members were encased in ice, and along comes Lilia to fix things. He offers Malleus a bowl of shaved ice and invites him to eat with everyone (as the cause for his anger in the first place had been that his grandmother was busy with her duties and could no longer make time to each with him as promised). Lilia reminds Malleus that someone like him has great powers, so he has to wield it responsibly—otherwise he could have lost many of the people he is now sharing this snack with. (This is a very valid lesson since Malleus was capable of magic—and thus harming others—right out of the eggshell; he once singed Lilia’s hair with his flames.)

Malleus reports that Lilia has cut his hair for him (despite Malleus probably being able to go to a formal expert or the court’s hairdresser). Lilia has also sung to him at night and even taught Malleus how to play instruments.

It’s not clear to what extent Lilia was involved in his liege’s life, because even though he is established as a caretaker to Malleus, it was also revealed that Lilia was apparently banished from the capital city so they’d have to arrange to meet elsewhere. It’s known that Malleus would sometimes visit Lilia and baby Silver in their forest cottage, but again the frequency of these visits is unknown (Did he, like his headstrong mother, sneak out against the wishes of the senators?) I’d imagine that Malleus is kept fairly busy with studies to prepare him to ascend to the throne, but from the way Lilia describes raising Malleus, it sounds like he was with him quite frequently: “I always know exactly where he is. After all, I have been watching him since he was brushing eggshell off of his head.”

To this day, Lilia serves a similar guiding role, often acting as the facilitator between Malleus and his peers, as well as continuing to be a mentor to him. Malleus maintains his standoffish and difficult to approach aura at NRC, so it is Lilia who encourages him to engage with his peers. He delivers a holiday card to Malleus’s new friend who has taken up residence in Ramshackle. He invites Malleus as his plus one to Silk City in A Firelit Sky, wishing for him to see more of the world—even when disaster strikes and Lilia cannot accompany him. He extols the virtues of understanding and bonding with other races both in the main story (book 6) and in vignettes (Malleus’s Dorm Uniform). He gives Malleus a formal invitation to his farewell party (like, envelope and all!), because he knows just how much that would mean to him. Lilia has seen how a country looks when it has been ravaged by war and hate. He knows how a heart can grow bitter and resentful if left to fester in isolation. So he works his ass off to try and ensure that Malleus, the future of his country, can lead it to an era of peace and love that Lilia only got to experience with the passage of time. It could also be said that Lilia places a big emphasis on Malleus as their “future” since Lilia already suffered the loss of two close friends, Malleus’s parents.

Lilia seems to think of Malleus as a capable leader and one of great character, though perhaps marked with inexperience and a lack of worldly knowledge (which is why he pushes for Malleus to go out of his comfort zone). Most notably, he tells Leona in book 2: “[… ] with that sensitive ego of yours? That so quickly directs all your petty anger at your retainers... Well, the idea of you ever contending with a REAL king like our Malleus—is absolutely laughable. Even if you COULD defeat Malleus, so long as that's how you choose to conduct yourself? You would never be fit to rule!”

At times, Lilia has the habit of treating Malleus like a child. Something he does a lot is reassure his prince that it is okay to feel a certain way (usually frustrated or angry) and that Malleus is not capable of hiding the truth from his keen eyes. Lilia usually encourages Malleus to be more honest with his emotions and to take the chance to act like the child he is and enjoy his school life. Malleus tends to not take to the former very well, reminding Lilia that he is not a child and that he understands the circumstances. Despite these claims, he to hold Lilia in high regard and trusts him a great deal. Lilia currently occupies his vice dorm leader seat, which is implied to be handpicked by the dorm leader. Furthermore, Malleus trusts Lilia to fulfill the dorm leader duties that he is not capable of or able to, as we see Lilia attending dorm leader meetings and leading the Diasomnia freshmen during orientation.

Lilia is a more lax than Sebek and Silver when it comes to monitoring Malleus. He is of the belief that their prince needs his own independence and to experience life without people constantly breathing down his neck. Malleus, as we know, enjoys solitude like his midnight strolls throughout campus. In Leona’s Union Jacket vignettes, he also discusses the freedom of going out in public without an encourage accompanying him. Lilia is able to easily read and understand Malleus’s feelings in this regard (though he is good at reading all of the Diasomnia boys).

Malleus still cherishes the virtual pet that Lilia gifted him years ago. He takes care of it diligently, even though he is constantly faced with the cycle of Gao-Gao Dragon-kun/Roaring Draco growing up and leaving the nest. According to Malleus’s Labwear vignettes, he considers the virtual pet one of his most important treasures.

The two are able to pal around with each other despite holding the other in such high regard. When Malleus and Lilia are placed on opposite teams for Beans Day, they find fun in roughhousing and relish in the challenge (not really paying attention to the fact that their sheer power and speed is on a whole different level than that of the other students). They also served as co-conspirators in Endless Halloween Night, something which upset the other students and they both apologized for. Mischief isn’t entirely off the plate for this duo!

Malleus grew up without his parents (and his grandmother often kept away by her royal duties), so it’s possible that he latched onto Lilia as a parental figure. He is shown to be protective of Lilia both in vignettes and in the main story. For example, in Lilia’s PE Uniform vignette, Rook is chatting with Lilia and indicates that he is interested in Lilia as his hunting quarry—but Malleus throws the ball meant for long throwing at Rook, just narrowly missing his nose. “Perhaps he suspected that you were picking on little old me,” Lilia suggests. However, the example I’m sure we’re all familiar with of Malleus being protective of Lilia is book 7… when he decides it would be better you force everyone to have happy dreams instead of accepting a reality that changes and forces you to say good-bye to your loved ones. Malleus explicitly states that he is taking these actions so he “doesn’t lose [Lilia]”. Indeed, it is Lilia deciding to drop out of NRC and retire to the Land of Crimson Long that was the impetus for Malleus’s blot to kick into overdrive. When Lilia “wakes” from the dream, Malleus is eager to keep him in it. He offers to come up with a new dream, desperate and intent on keeping Lilia trapped there.

Malleus holds a lot of weight for Lilia too. When Lilia is pulled into a dream world fastened by Malleus’s magic to guarantee a “happy ending”, Lilia dreams of… an era of war? At first, Silver and co. find this to be strange because war isn’t something you tend to associate with happiness. It’s not until far later that Silver realizes what the real “happiest moment in [his father’s] life” is: the moment of Malleus finally hatching from his egg. Previously, Malleus had been very picky and rejecting the magic offered to him by others, even his own grandmother. This led to a dire situation where he was at risk of dying in his shell, as a dragon’s egg needs infusions of love and magic in order to be viable. In offering up much of himself—including a chunk of his own lifespan—Lilia helped Malleus hatch. To Lilia, this was his happiest—not because he “loves” Malleus more than Silver, but because Malleus hatching as a result of Lilia’s magic is affirming to Lilia that he is capable of parental love. This was a concern he communicated to Meleanor before she parted from this world, that he wasn’t sure he could look after Malleus in her stead because he’s an orphan and has never experienced what it is like to be loved… so he can’t have the capacity to love either. Meleanor reassures him though! If Lilia can love her and Raverne, then surely he can also bring himself to love their child. All these years, Lilia has never thought himself capable of “true love”—not even when he finds an infant Silver later, abandoned in a briar covered castle. But in that moment, when Malleus hatched, a miracle happened, and that miracle was the result of Lilia’s love.

This brings me to one final point about Lilia and Malleus’s relationship: how self-sacrificial Lilia is. Lilia hides a LOT of information from his loved ones, including Silver and Sebek, and instead chooses to accept the emotional burden of knowing himself. He does it with good intention, not wanting his children to be hurt by the scars of the past, but in a way that closes the boys off from fully understanding where they come from and Lilia’s own emotions. This is behavior that continues into present day, including Lilia being in a rush to leave to spare his boys the pain of a prolonged farewell. (I talk more about this aspect of Lilia’s character here, so I would advise reading that if you are interested in this topic.)

To conclude, Malleus and Lilia both highly respect and care for one another. Their bond is a strong one, and that’s perhaps why Malleus is so determined to cling to it—Lilia is one of the few intimate and meaningful connections he has.

[inkpot909]

First Love Headcanons: Pannacotta Fugo x Reader

↳ Gender neutral reader.

A/n: This was so much fun to write! Fugo is such an interesting character to write for that I couldn’t help but fuss over this one for a good while. I hope y’all enjoy it as well. <3

Warning(s): None.

It started out innocently enough, as Fugo is not the type to fall in love overnight.

Curiosity itself is a perfectly normal reaction to have regarding a new member of Bucciarati’s team. Fugo is no exception to this, as he no doubt harbored questions about you when you initially joined.

That said, his approach is different compared to the others on the team. If you join after Mista, Narancia, and Abbacchio, they do just fine on their own intimating you at the very start.

Past the initial meeting, where some lighthearted hazing is likely to occur from everyone, Fugo sees no reason to contribute to any form of poking and prodding outside of missions. You already have to get used to so many strong personalities at once, after all.

He’s been with Bucciarati since the formation of his team, so he’s quite accustomed to getting used to someone new being around. Hell, if he wasn’t so closed off, he would’ve thought to feel bad for you.

Due to the walls he’s long put up, he prefers to remain observant from afar for a good while. Regardless of when you enter the picture, he’s going to keep his distance.

He’s not as good at reading people as someone like Giorno, but he trusts what he can decipher.

This will likely result in Fugo making some assumptions about you prior to the two of you finding equal footing. Whether or not his judgements turn out correct is unknown to you, as he doesn’t care share them with you to begin with.

This does lead to some aspects of your personality to be surprising to him. Nothing bad, just little details about you that he wasn’t expecting.

Your hobbies may be what’s shocking, or perhaps the type of media you prefer to consume. Little aspects of life and personality that unfold because of how much time the team spends together. The discovery of such things is what likely makes him feel more inclined to get to know you better.

Little by little, Fugo will eventually start including you in conversations and vise versa. Especially when Narancia and Mista are involved, he begins to turn to you it in an attempt to keep himself sane:

Mista and Narancia’s relentless chatter is still intimating.

How can you even approach a guy like Mista? He’s more than proven himself to be the type that says anything and everything that pops into his brain. Although he is certainly the relaxed type, his words can be quite vicious if he’s in the mood to tease and you just so happen to be in his line of sight. Sit him next to a full-time enabler like Narancia, and the two can go off on pretty much any topic imaginable.

Their conversations at the dinner table are wild, spontaneous, and still- even after more than a month of knowing them -manage to catch you off guard. Sometimes it’s thought-provoking and other times… not so much.

Which leads to their current conversation, one you sincerely wish wouldn’t take place while you’re trying to eat.

“I’m just saying-“ Mista argues, waving his fork in the air, “If it promotes a soothing and relaxing environment within the human body, I don’t see why it’s so unbelievable that it could also theoretically resonate with your bowels as well.”

“Yeah, maybe-“ Narancia rolls his eyes, “But that doesn’t mean it’s gonna make you crap your freaking pants! That’s ridiculous.”

“It’s not ridiculous; it’s psychology.” Mista retorts, raising a brow. His smug expression does nothing to convince you, or a bewildered Fugo sitting next to you, his knowledge on the subject. But it is enough to grind Narancia’s gears, which ultimately, is probably the key to his actual intent.

Still… you think, staring at your food with a pinched nose. It’s the brown noise. They’re actually trying to prove or disprove the psychological effects of the brown noise. Why on earth… no, how on earth can either of them discuss such a thing with a straight face?

“What kind of messed up psychoglogy-“

“Psychology,” Fugo cuts in with a sigh.

“-Yeah, whatever,” Narancia dismisses with a wave of his hand, “What kind of messed up psycho-logically are you reading up on?”

Grunting in frustration, Fugo drops his forehead onto the table with an exaggerated thud. Mista and Narancia continue to argue amongst the two of them, but you instead direct your attention to the grumbling blonde.

“Umm… Fugo?” you ask, hesitant to even address him.

He raises his head from the table, looking at you with desperation in his dark violet eyes. “Please don’t tell me you think this is worth discussing.”

You raise both your hands in the air. “Are you kidding? I just wanted to eat, but apparently that’s unheard of here.”

Sighing once more, he runs his hand through his hair. His hand stops at his neck and rubs the back of it. “Trust me, I don’t get them either,” he shakes his head, hand finally returning to his lap, “I’m glad you don’t encourage this nonsense, though.”

You let out a chuckle, a little surprised. Sure, you’ve spoken with Fugo before, but hardly ever this casually. The notion brings a tiny smile to your face. “I can’t believe you’d ever think I would,” you reply lightheartedly.

“Well, hanging around these two must be making me lose critical thinking skills… my apologies,” he replies. Despite his words, a smile crawls it’s way onto his face too.

Casual conversations held between the two of you opens the door to the beginning of a genuine friendship.

Unlike Abbacchio, Fugo knows better than to be contrarian to everything you say and do just because you’re new. Considering his intellect, he has always done his best to be objective. And there eventually comes a point where, upon reflection, he figures that you’re alright.

By then, off missions, he started asking you- quite bluntly -questions about yourself.

Although forward, he won’t overwhelm you all at once. From time to time, you might catch him staring at you thoughtfully out the corner of your eye (Do not bring this up to him; he will deny it to his grave). A round of questions often followed his stares.

And it’s when he feels he really knows you on a personal level that he’s able to truly relax around you.

He started greeting you with the same kindness and courtesy he offers the others. He gave you encouragement throughout both your private and work life… a lot of it. Turning to you during conversations comes to be as natural as it is for anyone else on the team.

Fugo’s caring side may be blocked off behind walls he keeps up for the sake of self preservation and the result of an unhappy childhood, but once you’re allowed to peek beyond them, his sweetness really knows no limit.

And it’s through his behavior that developing feelings start to shine through.

Fugo’s not going to at all realize his feelings toward you until the truth is smacking him across the face. But his actions show a certain kind of fondness before he himself recognizes anything.

His expressed love languages are most commonly words of affirmation and acts of service. This is very much so the case in the early stages of him developing feelings.

The words of affirmation were never explicitly affectionate, but always careful and supportive.

Fugo beats himself up over his temper often, so when he can think straight, he’s using his mind to its full extent. In other words, because he’s easily blinded by rage, he chooses his words very carefully whenever he can.

So after a particularly rough mission, he may get upset at one point or another. During the quiet moments after the fact, when adrenaline isn’t flowing any longer, he always gives credit where credit is due. He’ll gently comment on your work throughout the job, expressing he thought you did good with examples to boot.

Or it can be something as simple as offering you a job well done after making yourself a dinner.

From always holding his tongue unless he disagreed with your actions or input, to showering you with praise constantly. It comes to him so naturally he doesn’t even think twice.

And soon, even others in the group start to take notice:

“I don’t wanna do this right now… Fugo’s not even here yet, can’t I just wait?” Narancia whines.

His head is resting on top of an open notebook, his right cheek squished against crumpled paper. Pencil lead is smushed on his cheek, but pointing out he’s likely ruining his work would be a waste of time.

Resting your elbows on the table, you give Narancia a playful smile. “He’s supposed to get here with Abbacchio in thirty minutes. You know you should’ve gotten more done by now…”

Narancia let out an obnoxious groan, rolling his head onto his opposite cheek so he no longer has to look you in the eye.

“Narancia…” you sigh, smile falling. “I’m sorry if it seems harsh, but Fugo asked me to make sure you practiced on his recent lesson. He and Abbacchio are out doing the heavy lifting for the team right now, so it’s the least I can do.”

Narancia replies, but mutters it out so quietly you don’t pick up on his words.

“What was that?”

“Nothing,” he says at a volume you can hear, half bitter and half teasing.

“Narancia-“

“I said,” he lifts his head from the table, “You think like that ‘cause he’s always so nice to you.”

“What?” you blurt, heart skipping a beat.

“He compliments you all the time,” he chuckles. The smugness in his tone only grows, and as he continues, heat rushes to your cheeks. “‘Oh, Y/n, you did such a good job today, Y/n.’ And, ‘Oh, Y/n, you’re so very smart why don’t you help out Narancia?’ And who could forget, ‘Oh, Y/n, you look very beautiful today. Why don’t you kiss me on my big fat mouth?’”

“H-He doesn’t say that!” you exclaim, absentmindedly pulling at your fingertips underneath the safety of the tablecloth.

“You gotta know what I mean, though!” he insists. Pausing in order to read your expression, another laugh escapes him. “What? You haven’t noticed?”

“Umm, well.” Your lips pucker out, unsure if you should feel intrigued or embarrassed. After a short pause, you continue, “Fugo compliments everyone; including you… you know? He believes you can do this. He wouldn’t put care into teaching you if he didn’t. And I’ve seen what you’ve accomplished myself too. I certainly know you can get this.”

“You’re changing the subject,” he points out.

“And that not what you’re trying to do?” you ask, gesturing towards his notebook.

Narancia blinks dumbly, bewildered by your response. For a moment, you become pleased with yourself. Seemingly, you’d backed him into a corner and couldn’t help but be a little proud of yourself for it.

“You really don’t know…” he utters, eyes suddenly brightening.

Wait, what? you think, confidence quickly dwindling.

A fit of laughter erupts from him, kicking his feet in the limited space underneath the table. The movement halts your hands. His chair creaks and squeaks in distress, quickly quieting down when he once again slams both feet back on the floor.

He eagerly hunches over his notebook, eyes wide. Snatching up his pencil, he finally begins scribbling on the paper once more.

You’re left staring at him in awe. “What…? So now… you’re good then? You’re just… you’re just going to continue your work?”

Narancia lets out another laugh. “Ha! Well, the sooner I finish, the sooner I can tell Mista about this. I can’t believe you’re so clueless!”

Narancia is calling you clueless… yikes.

The confusion you may have felt that afternoon is nothing compared to Fugo’s reeling mind when the others started pointing things out and teasing him over his supposed affection.

Fugo doesn’t remember when it started, but they didn’t wait long after noticing his feelings to begin teasing him over them.

He would cross his arms, turning away with an annoyed expression while a pool of denials flood from his mouth. With a reaction like that, Narancia and Mista especially enjoyed pushing his buttons on the subject.

Abbacchio would partake in teasing as well in his own little way. Namely, he began making straight-faced comments and turning smug the moment Fugo’s voice raises. Bucciarati mostly keeps quiet on the matter, but no one could miss the fond grin he wears when the others get on his case.

Once, Giorno called you Fugo’s boyfriend/girlfriend. A bashed remote and a broken plate later, Fugo is shocked to learn Giorno wasn’t picking on him and genuinely thought the two of you were together.

The guy must be either super egotistical or is just not at all used to being wrong about this kind of thing, Fugo distinctly thought.

But of course he’s wrong about this! Everyone’s comments made no sense to him at all! There’s no way he felt that much towards you. That kind of thing… is not for him. He may take note when someone’s attractive, but he’s never really thought too seriously about romantic relationships. Just because you’re attractive, doesn’t mean-

Nope… nope, nope, nope, nope. He’s not touching that one with a ten foot pole. No way.

But by the next time he’s helping you with dishes the concept pops into his brain. When he’s dotting on you after a mission it’s plaguing his mind. And he can’t help but notice how meticulous he is when retrieving your additions to the group’s grocery list.

Shit.

Fugo doesn’t know what to think. He really… does go out of his way for you at times. Well, okay, all the time. Looking back, he finds some of his actions to be a little embarrassing. And the more the notion is stuck in his brain, the more he starts understanding that he really does care about you more than just as a friend.

Which is a whole other problem. Fugo’s going to get completely stuck in his own head.

This is the very first time he’s felt this way about someone, and he’s a mess over his lack of knowledge on the subject.

Because what the hell is he supposed to do? Tell you…? Don’t be ridiculous. That notion is met with a mocking tone, as if the mere idea of doing so is itself far too absurd.

But still… there’s this overwhelming urge telling him he has to do something. According to the others he’s already doing something, apparently. But you’re not saying anything about it. Wouldn’t you say something about it if you noticed? What if you never notice on your own? You won’t know unless he makes some sort of move…. but surely that would cause the sky to fall and mark the beginning of end times.

It’s a real echo chamber of insecurity in his head.

Yet… he feels a weird compulsion to be closer to you despite himself. He gets a weirdly beautiful feeling when he’s around you and it flutters his heart so much he doesn’t want to just let it go. It’s brand new to him, and as much as he stresses, he holds onto his affection tight.

Even though it’s more annoying than not, the others are consistent enough with their jabs that it gives Fugo hope that just maybe…

One of the only times Bucciarati explicitly commented on it himself, he mentioned that he believes Fugo’s frustration with his feelings will eventually pass.

The tone he carried indicated that he must know something that Fugo doesn’t, which only made his mind run wild further. Because if you’re going to tell anyone on the team about your feelings, it would probably be him.

Regardless of how much Fugo begs, Bucciarati doesn’t confirm nor deny that hunch. He’s rather adamant that Fugo should just “Ask Y/n and find out on your own.”

And after months of pushing, the others begin echoing that sentiment.

The likelihood of him making the first move is still slim, he figures, but he does hold onto hope that he’ll get a chance one day. Daydreams and “what if” scenarios are a common occurrence for him.

He procrastinates waits for the perfect opportunity, but it never seems to come. Mista mocks him for it, laughing that “There’s no such thing as a perfect opportunity.” Fugo only grows more defensive in response.

I’m already so nervous about expressing myself to Y/n, Fugo fusses, I don’t know what I’d do if I mess this up. If I can’t sweep them off their feet, how can I even-

“Pannacotta?” you ask, pulling him away from his thoughts.

He blinks a couple of times, focusing his attention back on you.

When Giorno is absent, Fugo’s the best source of first aid on the team. All you had to do was walk up to him, apologetic and sheepish. Without a word, he eagerly jumped at the opportunity to help patch you up after a particularly rough mission. It’s the closest he ever physically gets to you.

He calmly led you into a bathroom, gesturing for you to sit atop the sink. His fingers were light and gentle as he worked with what he has on hand. You gave him reassurance that Giorno will likely return soon, so he has no need to stress.

A smile played on his lips, thankful that you know him well enough to guess his own worry.

But slowing movements and focused eyes told you his mind began wandering elsewhere. The cutely taken aback expression on his face after you spoke up is also more than enough evidence to confirm your suspicion.

“You with me?” you ask, playfully trying to get him to respond.

You’re not used to him being this quiet after you’ve gotten hurt. He either talks you through the pain or feels the need to give a lecture. Even when Giorno’s healing you, he’s right by your side whenever he can. Just the thought of his usual behavior can bring warmth to your heart.

“My apologies, you’re just distracting,” he says, hands immediately snapping from your person. Oh god, oh god, it’s not like him to speak without thinking. He stutters trying to cover up his words and only digs a bigger hole for himself in the process. “I-I mean you’re distracted- I’m distracted.”

You laugh, but it dies out fast as you clutch your side at the sting of pain rippling though your body. Fugo’s hands instinctively fly to your side as well, his fingertips brushing up against your own.

Slowly, he lifts his head only to meet your gaze closer to him than it was mere moments ago. You seem just as surprised as he is, and there’s a brief pause while both of you wait for the other to pull away.

Neither of you do.

He’s so close he can feel your breath fanning his face. Normally his face would burn red and he’d retreat to his bedroom as soon as he could, where he’d proceed to reply the moment in his head for the rest of the night. But your eyes… your breathtaking gaze is locked on his own so intently he can’t bring himself to pull away.

And they give him courage he never knew he has.

With a nervous gulp, he leans forward and plants a single kiss to your lips. His own lips are unimaginably soft and hesitant, yet linger against your own longingly. Even when he pulls away far too soon, his nose nuzzles against yours as he plays with the idea of brushing his lips against yours again.

Just to have felt you… to have the briefest taste of what it’s like being closer to you than anyone else he’s ever known before…

“I-“ he pulls himself away, joy dissolving into self-consciousness. You open your mouth to speak, but in his haste, he cuts you off by accident, “I’m sorry… I-I shouldn’t have done that.”

“You… didn’t want to?”

Your reply is spoken in a whisper, voice so faint not even someone standing in the doorway could pick up on it. Fugo’s heart thuds against his ribcage at the crestfallen look on your face. Are you… really disappointed? He’s understanding this correctly… right?

There’s no time to think, and once again he lets his mouth move faster than his mind. “Well, I… you deserve better, you know?” he reasons, “I should’ve explained myself first and then asked… not just go for it… you know. This- I-… I’m not doing this right, aren’t I?”

You adjust yourself on the sink top, glancing away from him for only a second. “If you were to have explained yourself… what would you have said?” you gently plead.

“I-…” he shakes his head.

“Please, Pannacotta, I want to know…”

“I-…” he starts again, taking in a deep breath, “I think I would’ve said… that I think you’re very remarkable. That I’ve never met someone like you before… someone who makes me feel this way… someone who makes me-… umm…”

A hopeful smile tugs at the corners of your lips as you finish for him, “Makes you… want to kiss me?”

He nods, clearing his throat for a couple moments too long. “Not just that, though… you know? It makes me want to take care of you and look after you if I may. I-I-“ he hesitates, “I’m sorry… I’ve thought about this for so long. What I’d say to you if… if I got the impression that you wanted to hear it.”

“I do want to hear it,” you tell him, still grinning from ear to ear, “Pannacotta… I’ve been wanting to say something too for a while now. But you’ve taken the words right out of my mouth.”

He would think he’s dreaming if it weren’t for your hand reaching out and holding his with a gentle squeeze.

“I like you a lot…” you softly confess, “And I need you to know that. It’s always really cute to see you so shy… but for a moment I got to see you push yourself a little. And I think that was beautiful.”

His head falls, staring down at your interlocked hands. Your words stir something within him, taking a tiny step forward in trying to grasp that burst of confidence he felt when he kissed you. “You’re beautiful…” he mumbles, squeezing your hand.

Just a quick glance your way, a brief view of the bright smile on your face, is the best reassurance he could’ve hoped for. He took the plunge, and not only is chaos not ascending to the world’s surface, but his eyes finally open to the affection you feel for him in return.

He ultimately had a love-hate relationship with the way he feels about you before anything concrete happened between the two of you, but that didn’t stop him for falling for you more and more.

And with hindsight, he’s a little timid over not having told you how he feels sooner. But it doesn’t consume him as it may once have before.

With you now at his side, you his and him yours, his heart can only flutter with joy at the prospect of finding his first love.

[my-cherie]

𝗗𝗢𝗘𝗦 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗠𝗢𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥 𝗞𝗡𝗢𝗪♡

pairing ꒱modern! step-dad! pantalone x male reader warnings ꒱ step relationships (though reader doesn't know it), cheating on pantalone's part, a few pet names (darling, sweetness, pet), grinding, dirty talk, praise. wc ꒱ 600+ thoughts ꒱ small genshin drabble bc pantalone doesn't get nearly as much appreciation as he deserves, this man is HOT, y'all. inspired by the abba song with the same name. NOT BETA READ.

You hadn’t seen your mom in a long time. Ever since you moved away for college she barely contacted you, so to say you were baffled when her wedding invite came in would be the century’s understatement. Putting on your best suit, you messed with your hair a little more and tried your best to straighten your tie, before giving up and just deciding to go like this. Not like you were trying to impress anyone.

While you were on the way to the ceremony, you checked the invite again. This was maybe your mom’s third husband ever since your dad left? You weren’t sure, but maybe this “Pantalone” (as you came to know his name from the invite) would be nicer than your other step-fathers.

… The place was fancy. You almost wish you hadn’t come, because the venue in itself already seemed straight out of an expensive magazine, with the full-on white decorations, roses and tulips and baby’s breath everywhere and a ton of seats in the middle of a cute, meadow-like wedding venue and now you were sure that this Pantalone guy was at least filthy rich, because your family sure as hell didn’t have the money for this place, even with the money your mom managed to get from her past failed relationships.

You stumble amidst all the guests, making small talk with some cousins, aunts and uncles, before finally settling into the back of the garden, nursing a glass of white wine that you were sure cost more than your apartment. Trying to look for anyone else you knew besides the few relatives you had talked to, you were disappointed to see only strangers. 

Fuck, was your mom gonna take too long to come out? 

“Hello,” you startled, who— “do you mind if I wait here as well?

Oh, that’s a very pretty man.

He’s wearing probably the most expensive suit you’ve ever seen, with a beautiful blue tie, silver glasses and— Is that a fucking Armani suit?

“Sure dude, uh,” you shift under his attention, distractedly biting the inside of your mouth, scrambling for a common topic you could talk to this stranger about, “do you know the groom?”

“Yeah, you could say that.” He chuckles in amusement and you realize suddenly that he seemed a bit... bored. He was just observing everyone and not moving to greet any of the people in the venue, even though you can see that quite a few people seemed to wave and smile at him.

The unknown man seemed to not want to socialize with anyone else, besides you, that is.

You mess with your tie again, trying to distract yourself from the beautiful, beautiful man besides you. Your tie just never seems to sit correctly on your suits, no matter how many times you've watched those tutorials on Youtube about how to do the perfect tie.

“Do you need some help there?” The man — fuck you forgot to ask his name — asks, clearly seeing you struggle.

“Please, if you could.” You smile at him, embarrassed.

He comes closer, slowly redoing your tie for you, and you stare at his face meanwhile. 

Without meaning to, your eyes are attracted to his lips and you bite your own again, thinking about how they look very much kissable. When you look up, he’s already looking directly at you, a smirk playing at his lips and his eyes muddled with arousal.

So you weren’t the only one to feel the pull of attraction between you two then, good. You weren’t even enjoying the wedding anyway.

(The man kisses hard, you dimly register, your body hidden away from view by the way he’s holding you, kissing you breathless.

His knees are slowly grinding your dick and fuck if it doesn’t feel good, making you moan each time he does it, holding his hair tighter.

“Do you like it like that, darling? Does it feel good?” He talks dirty like he’s made for it and when you don’t answer, he pulls away the tiniest bit. “Answer me.” 

And you have to gasp for breath, he has already made you into such a mess in a few seconds, it’s humiliating, but not enough for you to not beg him.

“Yes! Yes, it feels amazing! Please, please—“ You don’t know his name, god damn it all. He seems to notice your predicament, because he snickers a bit.

“The name’s Pantalone, sweetness.”

You give him your name as well, completely forgetting that your mom’s soon-to-be-husband has the same name as the stranger ravaging you. Even though it’s a very clearly unique name, your brain has been completely taken by his ministrations, hazy and distracted.

“Cute,” he says, before going back to kissing you to oblivion and starting to grind against your cock with his own, clearly hard and wanting to continue just as much. 

“I’m going to enjoy ruining you, pet.”)

[ticklishfiend]

A Joint Effort (Good Omens)

(lee!crowley / ler!aziraphale)

Summary : in which aziraphale and crowley created tickling together many years ago (alt. and reminisce on it many years later)

a/n : lowkey this is very conversational abt tickling but i do (personally) love a fic that discusses the topic :D there is tickling tho dw LOL i just wanted to write some tickly dialogue

word count : 4065

hope u enjoy! pls consider giving a reblog if u liked it <33

. . .

A lot of things went through Crowley’s mind as he gazed at that all too familiar lake. Mainly all the times he and Aziraphale met here to discuss their “private affairs,” a secret team-up only one angel, one demon, and dozens of ducks could know about.

More recently it was all that dreary “end of the world” business he’d quite frankly prefer to Men In Black himself out of remembering (by the way, what a fantastic film that one was, the humans couldn’t have been both more far off and somehow right on the nose with it). The lake was lucky it was still so pretty after all these years, otherwise he’d have stopped visiting after everything resolved itself some time ago.

Humans had a phrase for what he tended to do alone on the bench. “People-watching,” they call it. Such a funny phrase considering it’s technically been his job since the creation of man itself. Maybe that’s why he enjoyed doing it so much. Technically, it’s kinda what he was made for.

He listened as a man adjacent to him across the lake was thinking and thinking his little head off. The man pondered over a woman, a lover Crowley presumed, and apparently how good their date had gone last night. Crowley noticed him fiddling with something in his pocket. Oh yes, a ring. What a disgustingly adorable tradition.

Crowley tapped his ring finger against the bench with an unknown impatience.

He saw that close by, a woman made her way towards the man (ah wait, it’s the woman, he could hear the man’s heart rate pick up and blood sloshing towards his cheeks, kinda gross how their bodies betray them), her hand finding his as she laid her head down on his shoulder. Crowley’s throat made a funny sound as he crossed his arms.

Crowley didn’t care much for the conversation, much more of an observer than a listener. Out of habit, he almost sent an evil little miracle their way, a “no” from the woman catching at his fingertips and becoming clenched in his fist. Actually…this might be the first successful proposal he’ll ever witness. He can hear the yes before she’s even said it, so much love radiating between them it's like radiation to his skin.

But he wants to see this play out. Just because he actually can now. Yeah…trying new things and all.

So it plays out just like the movies. He gets down on one knee, she cries, yadayadayada, blahblahblah. But this time, Crowley can actually feel it. This isn’t like seeing it through the screen. Those emotions become one with the air, making the whole park’s atmosphere thick and sugar-scented. It makes his skin crawl. Or he got goosebumps. He can't tell for sure, maybe it’s all one and the same.

He keeps watching the couple, telling himself he’s invested like one would stare at a car crash (even though nothing about this is a wreck at all, it’s a tad beautiful and Crowley knows this, but there’s still something so wretched about how his eyes stay glued to that spot across the lake).

They keep giggling and kissing, snapping a few photos of the moment and basking in each other. The man lifts the woman and twirls her around, her sun dress twirling with her and making the scene look so…ugh, romantic.

Or…just romantic. Maybe there’s no need to groan so hard at that.

Then the woman does something that snaps Crowley out of his little haze (call it jealousy and Crowley will treat your legs like snap peas). She pokes and squishes around her new fiancés sides, and said fiancé begins to giggle. The woman gave the man a tickle.

Tickling is far from a new concept to Crowley. Actually, he may have had a little hand in creating it. It wasn’t his idea exactly, he didn’t sign off on the paperwork or anything, but let’s just say laughter wasn’t the first possible noise option. He thought it’d be a bit more creative if there was less screaming in hell from time to time.

Most people would probably assume tickling came straight down from above, a place of innocence and love and, yeah, laughter. Others may even say it’s a hellish creation, but those tended to be the ones that drew the short end of the ticklish stick (that is to say, they’re probably really fucking ticklish).

But honestly, this one was kind of a joint effort. Is the paperwork technically written on a heavenly scroll? Sure, yeah. But who was the one that signed off on that scroll in the first place?

Well, Aziraphale did always have such an obnoxiously perfect signature.

Near the beginning, Crowley had overheard some demons discussing new torture methods for the humans to use on each other, something easy that required less machinery on their part. One brainstorm talked of the humans being able to do nothing but poke at their enemy to get them howling in pain.

And, well, Crowley thought that sounded laughably absurd.

So the next time he saw Aziraphale on Earth, he gossiped like usual. Talked of how stupid it sounded, how the humans would get so out of hand using it they’d never get anything productive done. And of course, Aziraphale agreed (though he was at first quite shocked a demon was against any brainstormed torture method, no matter how ridiculous).

Together they devised a little scheme. Nothing major, just something to beat the demons to the race. They had to though, right? It’d just be stupid to ruin something as precious as humanity over a few pokes.

So, instead of screaming in pain, the humans would scream in laughter. It wouldn’t hurt, unless the human was too rough of course, and really the worst it could do was embarrass the victim (except when Crowley snuck in that sometimes they may wet themselves, as a silly little gag. Aziraphale may have been too distracted trying to find a mysterious, strangely itchy dark feather in his garments when he wrote that one). It was such a silly invention, and Aziraphale even felt a little embarrassed bringing it to Gabriel, but oh how the other angels adored it. It was a new game for their humans to play, to occupy and fill the time of their short useless existences. It was a perfect time-waster.

And so became tickling. A joint project created by Crowley and Aziraphale, one of the first little schemes they pulled together that only dipped their toes into everything that came after. And now Crowley got to watch as his invention created a positive memory for some random romantics at his favorite park.

It was weird. He’s never felt funny about tickling before, but since he and Aziraphale have gotten rather…um, close recently, seeing this couple be all flirty and affectionate and tickly was making him feel funny feelings about it he’s never felt before.

He’s not blushing. That’s a human thing. He’s just…warm.

Crowley shakes his head, emptying his mind of all that weird mushy shite. He brings his eyes back to the couple, seeing them kiss and talk and bask in each other’s otherness. Part of him made that happen, in some cosmic butterfly effect sort of way.

Maybe everything is a circle, just as they say. Like it’s all meant to be. One particular word stings at his tongue, he’s heard it a thousand times before out of Aziraphale’s mouth when the subject of a great plan is brought up. He’ll just have to save it for when his angel comes back around.

…

—( alt : s2 ending never happened and crowley goes back to the bookshop afterward and everything is fine and dandy and happy :D )

…

The bell above the bookshop’s door rang a familiar chime when Crowley stepped through, announcing his presence to the one and only being it should matter to. He practically beelined for the drapes, figuring it far too bright for a cozy bookshop even with his sunglasses on.

Crowley heard behind him the soft angelic clunk of each foot making their way down the staircase, the room brightening on its own as Aziraphale made his way down.

“Well that wasn’t a very long outing,” Aziraphale rounded into the main area, cup of tea in hand. “Did something happen?”

Crowley dusted the drapes with his hands, “Such a worrywart, you are,” spinning around and brushing his hands as he met eyes with the one on his mind all afternoon. “The park just got boring, don’t get your knickers in a twist.”

Aziraphale rolled his eyes, “Excuse me for noticing that you’re home earlier than usual,” he muttered, taking his next sip with attitude. “But since you’re back so soon, maybe we could…hang out, as the youth say,” he smiled that thin-lipped smile, and Crowley groaned in the back of his throat, following Aziraphale towards the back room (yknow, the one with the couch that Crowley can stretch his legs on as long as he needs and nothing ever feels uncomfortable).

“Grahk, angel, there’s a reason that only the youth should be saying these things. Sounds…unnatural, on your tongue,” Crowley plopped down on his favorite couch, his hand in Aziraphale’s (he’s not even sure when that happened, but who is he to complain?) leading him down to the spot next to his. Aziraphale did a wiggle as he sat, like getting the cushion ready for him.

“I like integrating new shortened language into my vocabulary,” Aziraphale pouted behind his cup.

“Helps me understand everyone better.”

Crowley tutted, “Okay, well, one: it’s not called “shortened language” anymore, you boob. They say slang now. If you don’t even know the word slang, you definitely shouldn’t be using it in the first place,” Crowley propped his feet up on Aziraphale’s lap, the only acknowledgment of his position being Aziraphale’s zero hesitation in using his shins as an armrest. “And two: you already have the most extensive vocabulary on the planet. You can know all the words and phrases you like, but I doubt you’re in dire need of any new ones to use.”

Aziraphale sat his glass down on the coffee table, leaning against Crowley’s legs. “I think you’re just jealous. Envy is one of the seven sins, correct?”

Crowley merely huffed, throwing an arm against the couch’s own and propping his cheek against his hand. He gazed a bit longingly at the angel, who seemed more interested in picking lint off his trousers at the moment. “Saw something at the park I thought you’d like.”

Aziraphale’s ears perked, but more or less remained focused on grooming Crowley’s pants. “Oh?”

“Want you to guess.”

That caught his attention, an annoyed glare thrown Crowley’s way. “I hate this game.”

“Naaaah you love it. Cmon, guess.”

“I’ll at least need a hint, Crowley. It could literally be an infinite number of things,” Aziraphale sat back against the couch now, finally interested in the conversation even if he continued with the annoyed charade, hands folded on Crowley’s shins. “At least tell me if it’s good or bad. You know how I hate bad surprises.”

“It’s good, trust me,” Crowley grinned. “Has to do with something we created a looong time ago. I’m talkin’ B.C, baby.”

Aziraphale’s eyebrows raised, really curious now.

“We created it?”

“That we did, angel.”

Aziraphale hummed, fingers fidgeting with the fabric, before gasping in excitement, “Was it a chihuahua?”

Crowley’s own eyebrows shot up at that, nearly having forgotten they created that wretched animal.

“Oh but they’re so cute, Crowley, look at how tiny!”

“Fine, but that thing’s gonna be a beast, I don’t care how little it is.”

“Heheh, no but good guess,” He chuckled, sliding his glasses off and tucking them into his front pocket. His hands mimicked Aziraphale’s, fingers crossed but against his chest. “One more hint: I saw some very…giggly humans.”

It took him a moment, but finally Aziraphale grinned, giving Crowley’s knee a few squeezes and delighting in the squeak and kick against the other arm of the couch. He giggled as he watched Crowley turn pink and grumble. “That may be one of my favorite things we created together.”

Crowley shoved his glasses back on as if hiding, more embarrassed than he’d like to admit. “You’re ridiculous for miracling that shit into me all those years ago.”

“I only did it because you did the same to me!”

Crowley chuckled, regaining his confidence to reach over and squeeze at Aziraphale’s side, relishing in the angelic giggles.

“Well obviously. I’m a demon. Had to mess with my angel somehow.”

Aziraphale pushed his hand away, his smile remaining with pink cheeks. “Yes, but an angel is nothing without an even better miracle than yours. We both know you got the worst of it,” Aziraphale said, throwing wiggly fingers in Crowley’s direction when he tried to argue, “Don’t make me tickle your ribs and prove it, Crowley. We don’t want a repeat of—“

“Say it and I’ll pluck each feather off your back and go to town on those ears of yours.”

Aziraphale just grinned, retracting his fingers and letting his demon relax as he held his hands up in defeat. Aziraphale sort of has the high ground here anyway, considering their differing levels of sensitivities; he’ll just bring it up later.

“So you saw some people in a tickle fight, then?” Aziraphale tipped the conversation away from them, a little wary of the threat. “Quite a public spot for something we made to be so embarrassing, don’t you think?”

Crowley waved a hand, “Aaaaah they don’t all find it embarrassing. The guy seemed too happy to care, anyways,” he said, scrunching his nose. “He had just proposed.” Crowley said the word like there were worms crawling under his clothes.

Aziraphale gasped, “Oh how lovely! You should’ve congratulated them, Crowley!” He whined, knowing Crowley too well, sensing there was no way he had given them a proper congratulations. Aziraphale hated missing out on precious human moments like that.

Crowley smiled at his enthusiasm, “Don’t worry, angel. They’ve got each other for that sappy shite.”

Aziraphale huffed out a happy giggle, giving Crowley’s leg a little shake and pat. Crowley always found it gross how giddy the angel got over others happiness. It made his heart and belly feel funny, maybe he was going into cardiac arrest or something. Well, not literally of course, but maybe like metaphorically.

“So the newlyweds had a little tickle tussle in the park? Oh that’s just precious,” Aziraphale held his hands close to his chest. “Thank you for letting them have their moment, dear.”

“Whatever, just didn’t feel like working too hard today,” Crowley sniffed, leaning back against his arms. “Yknow, the guy seemed to be loaded with those tickly nerves. I don’t blame that girl one bit for going at ‘em. Kept making these funny noises and wigglin’ like a worm. It was honestly very amusing to watch.”

Aziraphale grinned all smug. “Weeelll…”

Crowley frowned. “Well…what?” Aziraphale just shrugged, giving Crowley a quick up and down. Crowley shot up, pointing a finger, “No. That is not how I am.”

“All I’m saying is, if you can’t blame her for tickling her husband because of his funny reactions…weeeelll…” Aziraphale giggled, throwing shaky arms up in defense when Crowley leaned forward.

“Keep at it,” Crowley warned, throwing his legs off Aziraphale so he could corner the tittering angel into the couch, “And I swear, I will have jars of ticklish angel tears to display on my shelf,” he poked Aziraphale in the chest, awfully close now. “I’ll make sure you discorporate with a smile.”

Aziraphale gulped on a giggle.“I-I was merely…Crowley, come on now, I’m teasing,” he stuttered out. Crowley was right up in his face now, a smile that may as well be fanged making Aziraphale’s voice quiver. Crowley was eating up the sight.

“Yeah? Well so am I,” Crowley grinned in his face, glasses falling to the tip of his nose so Aziraphale could see the endearment in his yellow eyes. Aziraphale sighed, bringing a hand to the demon's chest. Crowley leaned into the touch, humming contentedly as he started relaxing against Aziraphale’s form.

He curled up against the angel’s side, Aziraphale’s fingers playing at his cheek. Crowley pressed his face into Aziraphale’s shoulder, mumbling, “It’s not my fault you’re a literal God-gifted tickler.”

“Mm, well it isn’t my fault you’re ticklish enough to break my vessel’s nose—“

“Okay, fuuuck you, I thought we weren’t bringing that up, you twit,” Crowley flicked Aziraphale in the temple, “Also, it quite literally is your fault I’m this ticklish. Prick.”

Aziraphale kept a frown after having his face assaulted like that, “I feel like you’re just asking for it now. Insulting and flicking me as we talk about how horribly ticklish you are. Yes, quite a wise decision on your part, Anthony.”

Crowley pressed his face further into Aziraphale, mumbling something incoherent that probably made no sense anyways. Something like, “your mum’s horribly ticklish…” but who's to say. Aziraphale caught on with a giggle.

“Oh is that it?” Aziraphale asked, squeezing Crowley’s shoulder.

“Is what it?”

“Do you want me to-“

“No. Fuck you.”

“Are you sure? Because it sure seems like-“

“Noooo.”

Aziraphale held back a laugh, trying not to embarrass Crowley so much he fled from the scene. Instead, he just slid a hand up Crowley’s side, decidedly not tickling. Crowley tensed under him, his hand squeezing tighter on Aziraphale’s lapels, but made no move to leave.

“I used a word before,” Aziraphale tapped one finger against the clothed side, not ticklish but definitely threatening. “Envy. Is that what you’re experiencing, Crowley?”

Crowley tried to grumble, but it sounded more like a whine with his face smushed into Aziraphale’s coat.“Wha’ would I even be…envious of,” Crowley muttered. “S’all stupid. Not the proposal, that’s for damn certain.”

“Oh no, surely not the proposal,” Aziraphale used his one finger to scritch gently. Crowley tittered in his throat. “I wonder what else I could be talking about, hm?”

Crowley was vibrating. He could feel how warm his face had gotten against the coat, hating himself for it but refusing to leave. This was…this was something. “Beats me,” he shrugged, but quickly brought his arms back down when he felt Aziraphale’s hand trail up even further, fuck. He growled, “Sssstop.”

“Stop what?” Aziraphale pinched once, and Crowley growled. “If there’s something on your mind, I’d love to hear it.”

“Hhmmhhmmhehehmm,” Crowley hummed a whine, squirming in Aziraphale’s hold. Part of him desperately wanted to sprawl out onto his partner's lap and let the angel have his ticklish way with him. The other part of him was screaming to push Aziraphale away, tell him off for being so silly and stupid. He didn’t actually think Aziraphale was stupid in the slightest, but fuck he couldn’t really think of anything worthwhile to say with Aziraphale’s fingers doing that to his lower ribs.

He didn’t do either of those things, though. Instead, he stayed curled into Aziraphale’s side with fingers also curled right on that spot that made Crowley feel all…all squirmy.

“Crooowleyy~,” Aziraphale sang into his ear, smiling against the shell of it as Crowley jerked and snickered in giggly fluster.

“What do you waaaant??”

“Did that couple make you think some…” Aziraphale pinched a quick line from Crowley’s ribs down to his hips. Crowley choked out a surprised giggle, body arching with a flinch. “…ticklish thoughts?”

“You’re such a dihick,” Crowley slapped Aziraphale’s hand, barking a laugh when he just squeezed his hip in response.

“I’m right, aren’t I?”

“…mmmmm no.”

“Crowley. You’re pushing into my fingers.”

“Shhhut up!”

“Admit it and I’ll get this over with,” Aziraphale said, abandoning his fear of embarrassing Crowley too much as it seems he was actually enjoying that part of it now. Who knew demons were so fond of being a little flustered?

Well, probably not most demons. But, come to think of it, when has Crowley ever been like “most demons”?

“I can’t, angel,” he whined, words a bit breathy as Aziraphale has switched to gently, slowly clawing at the clothed skin. It wasn’t enough to make him laugh, but damn if it still didn’t tickle like hell. If anything, this was probably worse. He can’t use the excuse of, “well I can’t talk when you’re tickling me!” because really, Aziraphale wasn’t. Not yet at least. Now they both knew he just can’t talk because he’s too flustered, and isn’t that a horrifying thought in itself.

“I never realized you actually liked it,” Aziraphale said genuinely, but his tone really made it sound like a tease.

Crowley shook his head, “I d—“ he bit down on his rebuttal with a growl, the word ‘don't’ falling down his throat. By now, they both knew that wasn’t true. No sense in fighting it, he guessed. “I didn’t know.”

Aziraphale made a surprised sound. “Really?” He gave a scribble to Crowley’s side, longer than the usual ones, and Crowley whined through a giggle.

“Uuugh maybe. Just when…whehen the couple—when they wehehere—Angehel I can’t speheheak when you’re—!” Crowley squeaked when Aziraphale started pinching up and down, giving focus to that little spot below his ribs. He couldn’t keep his giggles down, falling into breathless, flustered laughter as Aziraphale actually, finally started to tickle him.

“Too ticklish for words, Crowley?” Aziraphale teased on purpose this time, bringing his hand up, up, up to tickle a single finger in the hollow under Crowley’s arm. Crowley spasmed, choking out high pitched giggles as he squirmed and tried hiding his face even more into Aziraphale.

Aziraphale merely brought his other hand in to play with his exposed ear, bringing Crowley’s smiling face out as he jerked his head around to defend.

“Nohoho! This can’t be fffffuhucking fahahair-!” Crowley agonized, his laughter all over the place in pitch.

“I suppose not, considering I have quite the advantage here. More ticklish and enjoyable for you? What a pickle, my dear,” Aziraphale said, giggling as he heard the words come out of his mouth. “Aha! A tickly pickle! Isn’t that funny, Crowley?”

Crowley cackled as he shook his head around madly. Words weren’t easy when Aziraphale’s hand moved from his ear to his previously untouched side, pinching and squishing at the devastatingly sensitive hip bone.

“Refute it all you want, but with how hard you’re laughing you must think I’m very funny,” Aziraphale said, digging both hands into Crowley’s hips while dodging a headbutt to the nose.

Crowley’s mind felt like tangled wire. The tickling, the teasing, the knowing that he’s enjoying every second of it (and tickling and teasing him for exactly that). He’s been tickled before, been tickled by Aziraphale a few times in the past, but this was…it’s different.

They’re closer now, closer than they’ve ever been before. They know each other so intrinsically and still manage to learn new things about each other every day. Today’s discovery just happens to be Crowley’s apparent love for being tickled silly by his favorite angel, and he’s having trouble coping with the embarrassment of that when Aziraphale’s hands won’t leave his fucking hips alone.

“Yohohou-! AHA—! You’re diabohoholical! Ffffuhuhucking wanker!” Crowley insulted through hysterical giggling, squirming and kicking as his hips were tickled to the nub.

“Oh? Does someone want me to go back up to the ribs?~” Aziraphale’s hands finally left his hips, but slowly scribbled their way back towards his awful rib cage. Crowley thrashed with a cackle, it doesn’t even tickle that much on his sides but even the thought of those fingers back on his ribs has his stomach feeling ticklish on the inside.

“You dohohon’t—! Dohon’t have tohoho—ahAHAha nohohoho-!” Once those fingers found his ribs on both sides, Crowley gave up all the fight he had in him. He melted into Aziraphale’s side, merely squirming and twitching as he let his ribs be plucked by angelic hands. It was a torturous bliss he never expected himself to be found in.

“A ticklish demon,” Aziraphale cooed, leaning down to press his nose into Crowley’s hair. When Aziraphale talked now, it felt like the words went straight to Crowley’s brain, vibrating through the skull and making his neck scrunch. Crowley wanted nothing more than to let his angel play with him, and Aziraphale loved doing just that. “My proudest creation.”

. . .

a/n : hope u enjoyeddd it was very fun to write lol. pls consider liking and reblogging!! happy holidays <33

[monnn]

𝙸 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞, 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜.

Pairing: non-idol!Joshua x gn!reader

Genre: FLUFF!!! comfort, fluff, wholesome @_@'

Warnings: none, this is very SAPPY.

WC: 800+

A/N: hi I'm alive, oop. this is originally an epilogue to Winter Petal but can be read as a standalone! I'd be lying if this wasn't highly self-indulgent, but hope you guys enjoy it as much as I did! Hope you have a good week and have fun reading loves! ♡

Joshua had been living with you for a few years now. He had seen you at your worst, holding you with no plans of letting you go, but also patiently waited until you were okay to ask for a date. Although you were stunned at his bold approach, a date was all it took for you to see through him. He was in love, with you. And who were you to deny him of receiving love he deserves? 

So here you were, in a relationship with Shua, living life at a day’s pace. Waking up to him and sleeping with him had been the best times of your days, as you get to be so close and accessible to his heart. It was one of your unspoken routines to brief about the day, after and before going to bed. And just like any other day, you were getting ready for bed while Shua wrapped up things in the kitchen. Like there was a braincell being shared, both of you enter the room, smiling at each other while getting under the comforters. While he already got tucked in with a book, you were making sure to moisturise your skin and letting it dry before tucking yourself in. Unknown to you, Shua had been observing your actions – from how you got the cream, to the way you gently massaged them into your arms while making sure to leave no spots and flapping your arms for the lotion to dry away faster and to the saturated smile on your face while doing all of these. Shua finds his mind reeling and he’s suddenly so extremely proud of how far you’ve come.  

Having your heart broken by your best friend, things had been quite hard but you had taken your time to heal and Joshua had been nothing than patient with you. However, you were made sure to acknowledge your efforts which was his task daily as you tend to shrug your hard work away as nothing. Joshua’s seen all of it, almost. His heart swells at the sight of you and by the time you turn around, tears pool in his eyes, making him look away. Concern takes over you as you barely see Shua cry, because he always talks if anything’s bothering him. You move further towards him, taking his hands as he looks up to you, tears still streaming down his pretty face. 

“Hey, I'm here. Whatever it is, you'll be okay. Everything will be okay, I’ve got you” 

Hearing this makes Shua cry harder, now a sobbing mess in your arms as he presses himself further into your shoulder. Soft I love you’s escape from him, in between his sobs while you hold him dearly. Just like he's held you, so many times that you can't count of. You're so patient and gentle with him, all Shua wants to do is lose identity and leave to somewhere where he can be by your side all the damn time, for the rest of his life.  

A while passes by as Joshua collects himself, breaking away from your hold while reaching for the glass of water by his side. You see him chug it down, while worrying if something’s up. He turns to you, hands moving to hold your face while he slowly brings his forehead to yours.  

“I’m not sorry that I cried so much and wet your pajamas, but I love you. And I will make sure you know that, each minute of my life.“ he pauses, trying to collect his breath while you think of speaking.  

“Shua, I love you too. I'm always by you no matter-“he cuts you off, placing a little kiss on your mouth.  

“No, I'm not done yet.”  

Oh no, Mr. Sappy, Too-in-love Gentleman is here. 

Leaning forward, he takes a deep breath before getting started again.  

“You are so much. Good, bad or whatever, you are so much and I love you for that. You care so much about people around that you forget to care for yourself. But that's okay, because I will do that for you till my last breath.” 

Uh oh, the dams break loose again. Wiping his tears in one, he continues as he holds your face in the other.  

“I'm so proud of how far you've come. You're so much stronger than you think of and I love you so much that it makes me bawl my heart out. You deserve so much more and while I make sure of you receiving that, I will also love you to my fullest, babe. I love you” *hiccup* “so much.” he ends, crying through his hiccups.  

You heart is warm and humid at how much love you have for him, it’s disgusting!!!(actually, adorable) At a loss for anything to be told, you just hug Shua tighter than ever, leaving feather kisses on his knuckles and shoulders while waiting for him to calm down.  

In no time, he’s well hydrated and fast asleep, tired from all the crying as you tuck him in, slowly sliding in while he catches your wrist. You can hear a faint I love you from him, as you lie down facing him. He’s so pretty and your heart burns in love for him. 

“I love you too, Shua. Always.” you whisper, drifting off to start yet another loving day with your best person. 

[rainy-astrology]

BTS RM Birth Chart Analysis

Based on my opinion and observations. Not an expert. May change later.

September 12th, 1994

Seoul, South Korea

Unknown time

☀️♍️🌙♐️

Virgo suns are meticulous, analytical, and logical, which RM is. He's very intelligent and is especially articulate with his words. With a Mercury in Libra, he knows how to phrase his words in order to appeal to others.

Sagittarius moon is open minded and curious, it explains RM's philisophical side. He's obviously a deep thinker who puts a lot of meaning into his works.

He most likely has a Sun square Moon, which can indicate possible issues of inner conflict about his identity. Wants to follow his mind, while also wanting to follow his heart. May feel like he needs to prove himself to others.

Mars in Cancer is in fall. Mars in Cancer can be repressive and unsure how to properly express intense emotion.

Venus in Scorpio is in detriment - Venus is generally soft and calm, while Scorpio is intense and passionate. There can be issues of obsessiveness and possession. However, whatever these natives want, they will pursue it and not give up easily.

Possible rising: Virgo. He's just so Virgo lol. He's tall (I've noticed a lot of Virgo rising men are quite tall) calm, studious, and rational. Also a mixture of clean and messy. I do recall Joon saying he showers a lot (sometimes more than twice a day I think? He does work out and dislikes the sweat) and I also recall Suga talking about how messy Joon was when they still lived together and his disappointment in seeing how clean Joon's apartment was lol...I also have a good feeling that his Pluto is in 3rd house (3rd house placements in general tbh Mercury should be very influential in his chart) Pluto in 3rd is a deep thinker and highly analytical placement. He puts a lot of thought and meanings into his lyrics, always making sure to check they're apropriate first too. Pluto in 3rd can also get their words misunderstood, which seems to happen to RM often - people overanalyze and misunderstand what he says and does and try to paint him in a bad light. He has a lot of power in his words and way of thinking though, he's truly wise and influential. With Pluto being transformation as well, Namjoon has learned and expanded his mind immensely throughout his life...from having questionable beliefs and lyrics to a much more considerate and careful, wiser character is one hell of a growth process.

It would also give Chiron in 1st (if virgo asc is in 1st/2nd decan), which I think makes sense for RM...This placement deals with issues of self esteem, feeling misunderstood, and many matters concerning one's character. Namjoon has been pretty open about his own struggles of depression and going to therapy (not sure if he's still depressed and/or going but I do recall him mentioning both before). A lot of people did insult his looks in the beginning of BTS' careers and overall just disliked him, so I'm sure that took a huge toll on his confidence. Having to carry the responsibilities and burdens of a leader + having constant hate thrown his way for little things and some genuine small mistakes - it's not very surprising he was at his lowest years ago. Chiron in 1st also indicates having a lot of stressful experiences at a young age and he did have to face all this at 19 (still very young imo). I think these heavy feelings can be seen very well in a lot of his solo songs and lyrics. Questioning himself, his character, the feelings of depression and self hatred, etc are expressed clearly in his writing. Chiron in 1st pushes the native to learn confidence and build self-esteem as adults, which RM seems to have improved a lot in. E.g being direct about not apologizing for other's misunderstandings over a simple Instagram story he posted, especially when he had no ill intentions at all.

Sun would also be in the 1st house, which could explain his persistent and strong character. Sun in 1st is usually a confident and/or ambitious placement. The latter definitely applies to Joon - he pursued his dreams despite the huge risk of failing and all the hate that he received. What he chose to do was considered unconventional and was disliked for it. Still he was very determined to succeed and to make a new way, make better contributions to art (due to possible uranus and neptune in 5th; uranus in 5th is esp very noncomformist). This placement is also good for leadership and Joon is definitely a natural leader.

___

Other analysis:

MBTI | Enneagram

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Kpop astrology list

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Other blogs:

Main: Kpop typology (MBTI + enneagram) @rainymbti

Side: Kpop fanarts @rainy-artworks

[leggerefiore]

Quiet Café

cw: fluff, confession fic

pairing: N/Reader

summary: A pretty man visits your café often. You find yourself endeared with him.

-----

Your newest customer was intriguing. From his fast way of talking, truly a test of your ability to take in information quickly, to his gentle demeanour, you ways found yourself watching him when he came in. His messy green hair was tied back behind his back to little effect, and his aqua eyes observed everything curiously. You also noted that he always had a pokemon out with him if he did not come with his seemingly two choices of human company.

You smiled at him as he came in later in the evening with a Politoed. Spring had come and some light pink flower petals decorated his hair. Your heat warmed at the sight of him. “Hello again,” you greeted him, “For spring, we have a limited time cherry blossom tea blend.” He usually ordered teas over coffee, you had noted. He specifically seemed to enjoy your more floral and fruity teas. His female friend often eagerly enjoyed a cup with him, while his male friend tended to keep with more popular black tea brews.

“That sounds lovely,” he agreed, “I actually just left a flower viewing garden a friend had invited me to.” You knew those were quite popular in White Forest. It had been on your agenda to eventually make your way to one, too. You walked out to your tea tin to take out the blend and set the kettle to heat. The green-haired man had taken a seat near a window and gazed out into the busy streets of Castelia. He always seemed serene, but… There was a feeling of something just underneath, leaving him troubled. He appeared to be a sweet guy, so you hoped that was simply a misread on your part.

The steam erupted from the cup as the scent of something floral and fruity spread out. The tea brewed into a light green colour. A single pink flower sat in the cup as you brought it out to the man. “Were the flowers pretty?” you asked him, “I've been thinking of going, but I just haven't found the time.”

He gazed at you for a moment before blinking. “The pokemon there were extremely happy alongside the people,” he replied, “There were many different grass-types, especially.” You let a small laugh. It sounded like he focused more on the pokemon in attendance than the flowers.

“I really should then,” you looked at some of pokemon helpers around the café, “My crew certainly deserves something rewarding.” His smile warmed your heart with how sweet it was.

“They would love that,” he said like he could understand your pokemon.

~

He had not been wrong, you discovered. Your pokemon absolutely enjoyed the flower viewing alongside you. Their choices were never bad, but seeing it in person was something different from the pictures posted online. You reserved yourself to thank your green-haired visitor the next time he came in. Which took a while, honestly. He could get sporadic with visits, you had noticed. What he did for a living was beyond you. You know his company were usually trainers and the like, but whether he was one or not was something unknown.

When he did finally come in again, he had come with a Zoroark. You smiled at him brightly. “Welcome,” you greeted when he came up to your counter, “What's your order today?” He ordered the seasonal tea again and a slice of strawberry sponge cake. You quickly got everything together and brought it out to his table. His expression grew to the peaceful you had come to expect as he drank the tea and ate the cake. You felt awful interrupting it. Leaving it alone, you decided to just let him have it, free of charge. Just seeing him so at ease was enough for you.

When he came to pay, you just shook your head. “As thanks for your suggestion last Tim's, I decided to just give you those,” you spoke to him softly, “I don't think I've ever seen them so entertained.” You gazed at your server pokemon with a small grin. He seemed surprised.

“I-I feel bad,” he tried to argue, but you simply refused.

“Pay me back by coming back again, okay?” you told him, “I really enjoy it when you come in.” You swore a light pink dusted across his cheeks, but you just assumed it to be due to the lighting. His eyes gazed at the register before nodding.

“I will then,” he agreed, “I enjoy your café a lot.” You waved him off as he left.

~

You jumped when a brown-haired girl rushed in the next day with big blue eyes. A large Emboar behind her. You recognised her as one of your green-haired customer's friends. Her hands hit your counter excitedly. You were about to ask her if she was alright, but she glanced at you with a big grin. “N likes you,” she said exasperatedly, “He doesn't know how to say it.” You assumed that N was your green-haired man.

“… Er,” you were at a lost for words. You would not say that you lacked the feelings for him, but it felt odd having what was someone else confessing for another person. Mostly, you were concerned that she was assuming for him. “Sorry, I feel a bit awkward hearing that from someone else,” you decided to be honest with her, assuming she was just trying to help someone she cared for. The realisation seemed to have hit her.

“Point taken,” she took it easily, “I'll make sure he tells you.” With that, she marched out. You felt like you were in a daze from that.

A few hours later, just as the orange sky began to take on its darker hues, the bell on the door rang, signalling a new customer. You perked up from the dishes to gaze at the door. The evening light gave the man a different appearance as he stood nervously. You abandoned the dishes to approach him. He nervously gazed at you while shifting the blocks on a cube keychain he had.

“... You like me, then?” you asked him, aware of the girl's words from earlier. His head turned up to look at you. He nodded. You smiled at him as you stepped out from behind the counter. Your hand grabbed his own as you observed the skin of it. Soft. “Well, I like you, too,” you answered him sweetly, “I have a day off soon… Would you like to meet in Nimbasa?”

His expression turned into the serene one you had come to love.

“I would love to,” he replied, grasping his hand around yours.

[seventeenlovesthree]

Time Saver - a Taishirou Fanfic, Chapter 4: Calling It A Night

Summary: The strange girl requests to talk to Koushirou about a bug in the network that may cause trouble - but her whereabouts and the source from which she gets her information remain a mystery. Thus, Hikari tries to approach her in more gentle ways.

Word Count: 1937

Chapter POV: Hikari Yagami

Chapter List: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10]

Upon hearing that revelation, every person – and mon – in the room had gone silent, staring at the girl in the hospital bed with different variations of surprise. Thanks to his steady media presence in the past years due to his company and “Digimon related PR work”, Koushirou’s name wasn’t exactly unknown to the public. However, it was still unusual for a, presumably, middle school aged girl to get in touch first.

Hikari could still remember the steps Koushirou and Taichi had discussed for one of the latter’s internship speeches; whenever a new person would get partnered with a Digimon in Japan, Koushirou’s network – supported by Gennai’s connections – would be able to locate it first. The program was by no means finalized yet, since there were still too many factors they couldn’t properly take into account yet – and least that was what Hikari had gathered. Children usually had to be found by them first, as they obviously didn’t know how the process worked. But Koushirou had also talked about getting contacted personally by young adults who had formed partnerships, asking for guidance.

Nevertheless, even with the increasing presence of social media, it usually took Gennai’s meddling first and foremost for younger people to “get initiated” into the existing group. This case was truly strange.

“Wait, wait, wait, can we slow down for a second?” Jyou was the first to find his voice again, not daring to take another step towards the bed, since the little bug Digimon already seemed back on the fence again. “The last time a young woman appeared out of nowhere and wanted to talk to Koushirou, the outcome wasn’t actually the best…”

“Jyou-san, don’t be rude!”, Hikari cut in, giving him a scolding look. Even if she herself couldn’t help but make a mental note to talk to Taichi about whether he had been in touch with Menoa in the last months. Right now, she knew there were different priorities though, so she moved towards the bed, facing the girl with a gentle smile. “I do agree that we should slow down and talk for a bit. May you tell us your name first? And of course it’d be unfair if we didn’t introduce ourselves first. The man in the white coat is a doctor in-training here at the hospital we are at, Kidou Jyou-san. He’s with his partner, Gomamon.”

Jyou bowed in response, smiling awkwardly as well, whereas Gomamon just chirped a happy “Hi!”

“This is Takaishi Takeru-kun and his partner, Patamon. My name is Yagami Hikari, my partner here is Tailmon. The four of us found you lying on the ground after Takeru-kun saw a lightning strike and we just want to figure out what happened, so we can try our best to help you.”

While talking, Hikari had observed each and every of the girl’s reaction and her calm voice at least seemed to have helped to keep her attention on herself. She didn’t appear as directionless anymore, not as timid, but – and this was the weirdest part – avoided eye contact with Takeru…

Her glance was resting on Hikari herself instead, who had eventually sat down on the edge of the bed, mustering the younger girl very closely; despite her eyes being so dark, her expression was open and softened even more once Hikari had ended her speech. It was actually pretty similar to how a lot of her care children in kindergarten reacted to her whenever she was talking eye-to-eye with them and Hikari always brightened up herself whenever she felt like she had reached through to them. It wasn’t always easy, not all children were ready or capable of letting her in when they had problems after all. Sometimes talking and reasoning didn’t help, no matter how hard she tried. But just like with some Digimon, Hikari’s sense of empathy didn’t allow her to give up on them.

And in this case, she could sense a connection, a similarity. Whatever she had gone through, Hikari’s words must have resonated with her. Not only that; Tentomon had joined Hikari at the corner of the bed, looking up to the girl. Which seemed to have soothed her even more.

“Oh, and this is Tentomon. You may have heard of him already if you know about Izumi Koushirou-san too?”

“Pleasure to meet you!” Putting his claws onto the sheets to get better access, he just waited for her to respond – whereas the girl didn’t move for a good while, simply returning the gaze as if to analyze his entire being.

“The pleasure’s on my side”, she eventually said softly, accompanied by the hint of a smile – and without hesitating, she reached out for the red ladybug, patting his head. It almost felt like she simply had a natural affinity for bugs, Hikari mused to herself.

“My name is Hotaru and…” She abruptly pulled her hand back, as if she had gotten an electrical shock. Judging by the increasing redness of her cheeks, Hikari sensed that she got nervous again. As contrasting as her behaviour was, Hikari couldn’t help but to keep smiling at her – even if the blush was cute, complementing the colour of her maroon hair, she wanted to make sure she could feel safe with them.

“I came here because I have obtained information about a dangerous bug in the network, so… After doing some research about the Chosen Children residing in this area around Odaiba, I wanted to discuss the possible fixes with Izumi-san. I know he’ll be capable of finding it, so we may prevent quite some damage. That is… All I can tell you.”

Another moment of silence followed. Just a low “Huh…” sound by Tentomon broke through the quiet of the room. Maybe there really was a thing about bugs…

“… See, I’d say that sounds very familiar. Including the loss of consciousness.”

“Jyou-san!”, Hikari scolded him again – but couldn’t help but wonder about it all as well. Hotaru knowing about the term “Chosen Children” probably should not have been very surprising at this point either, but she simply appeared to be… Shockingly informed.

“I’m telling the truth!”, Hotaru raised her voice, sitting up a little more in bed while the bug Digimon clung to her arm. “I have no memories of a lightning strike or whatever it may have been, all I know is that the bug needs to be eliminated or terrible things could happen!”

“Hotaru-chan?” Hikari was still maintaining her kind demeanour, trying her best to keep the situation peaceful. So she peeked over to the little bug. “Is this Digimon your partner?”

“Hibismon…? Yes, she is.”

As if she had waited for the call, the Digimon jumped back into Hotaru’s arms.

“So you know who we are and you’re a Chosen Child yourself…?”, Takeru asked this time, after having remained quiet for a while. Hearing that, Hikari turned towards him. They had gone through a similar routine with Rui three years ago and at this point, it had become quite a pattern. The main difference back then was – that Rui hadn’t known any of them, including Koushirou. Despite all that, Takeru simply faced Hotaru with a stern look. “Where do you come from, since you said you got here after doing research?”

“This… This is a little bit more complicated…”

In this moment, the hospital room door got opened quietly – and if Hikari had perceived Hotaru to be tense and nervous before, she absolutely had not expected the young girl to just completely freeze up upon seeing Koushirou – similarly and yet way more intense than how she reacted to Tentomon approaching her. Round eyes, stiffed up, tense shoulders and – which surprised Hikari the most – lips that were pressed together so tightly that it looked almost painful. Seeing this, she suppressed the urge to sit down on the bed to simply wrap her arms around her…

“Sorry, it took a little longer…”, Koushirou apologized as he closed the door behind him, blissfully unaware of why everyone looked rather puzzled. “Taichi-san will be on his way here as soon as he can. I already told him roughly what happened and he insisted on taking the earliest train back home.”

He took a look around – and even he must have noticed Hotaru making a small gasping sound as he had mentioned Taichi’s name –, but as he opened his mouth to say something, Takeru let out a laugh.

“Diplomat life really isn’t easy, huh?”

Hikari adored Takeru’s laughter – it had the ability to light up an entire room and that superpower was definitely necessary right now. Even if she couldn’t suppress a small pout as reaction to his words.

“He wasn’t even on diplomat duty, he was doing a language training to improve his English skills and he once again didn’t message us regularly…”

“Still, he wanted to come here as quickly as possible, since the training also ended early today, but he initially didn’t plan on coming back before tomorrow evening”, Koushirou added, giving Hikari a sympathetic nod. They were, unfortunately, used to Taichi not replying back in time if he wasn’t constantly reminded of giving them a life sign – it was a fate they both had to deal with, so at least she didn’t feel as ‘left behind’ on her own. However, Koushirou didn’t seem to intend to dwell on the issue any longer and shifted to Hotaru, who – once again – flinched on the spot. “So, what did you talk about in my absence?”

This time, she at least tried to say something, but before she could open her mouth to reply, it was Jyou’s turn to interrupt – which, just like Takeru’s ‘distraction’ before, appeared to be just the right move at the right time:

“Maybe we should continue all of this tomorrow, Hotaru-kun? It’s been a long day and you all haven’t slept at all yet, so how about we talk tomorrow, mh? Do you want to stay here in the hospital for the night? That’s probably the most reasonable option, just to make sure you won’t faint again.”

Exchanging a short glance with her Digimon partner, she seemed to contemplate the offer she had just been given. Fumbling with the blanket for a few seconds, she eventually took a deep breath and returned Jyou’s gaze, explaining as calmly as possible:

“I don’t want to cause you any inconvenience, Kidou-san. Aren’t you out of capacity and will get in trouble if you let me stay…?”

Once again, her words caught them all off guard and Jyou simply stared at her.

“Well, err… Yeah, kinda, but how do you know about-“

“We could also take her to the office, Koushirou-han?”, Tentomon chimed in, pulling everybody’s attention towards himself – and making Hikari chuckle. He really could be a protective mother hen when somebody had gained his trust. Apparently, head pats were very effective at achieving that. “That way we can watch over her in case anything happens and nobody else has to get alarmed!”

“Tentomon…”

Hotaru’s big eyes had returned – and widened even more when Koushirou agreed without much reservations:

“That’s an option, yes. How do you feel about staying with us for the night – Hotaru-san, was it? We intended to stay the night there in any case, so this shouldn’t be an issue.”

Taking her previous reactions into account, Hikari was almost sure that she would have denied this offer as well, seeming rather cautious, despite the urgency to talk to Koushirou before. And yet, she hadn’t expected her to smile as serenely as that – or the low “Should have known…” Hotaru muttered to herself before saying:

“… I’d be happy to stay.”

[christinesficrecs]

Do you know of any more fics similar to To Whom the Wolf King Bows? I know you had one rec recently and it reminded me of this WIP I adore. Nomadic basically king Derek and Stiles being dropped into this society as an outsider. Thanks!

Sadly, this fic hasn't been updated in over 2 years because it is pretty amazing. ❤️ Anyway!! I don't know a lot of Nomadic!Derek but these are similar in other ways. Enjoy!!!

To Whom The Wolf King Bows by MadcapRomantic | 95.3K | WIP

Stiles Stilinski meets The Wolf King, the very boogeyman he'd spent his younger years terrified of; yet the man is little, if anything, like the tales he's heard. But, Stiles has spent the last ten years of his life as a slave, under the harsh whip of the cruel King Gerard Argent, and trusting Derek - trusting anyone - is beyond difficult.

By Moon And Stars by kellifer_fic | 15.9K | Mature

"Have you heard of this Alpha?" Stiles asks, shuffling up his pallet so Scott has room to sit. Scott does with a grateful little twist of his mouth. Stefan forces him into the Stilinski ceremonial armor when they travel and Stiles can see that it's heavy and doesn't sit well on Scott. He can't shift encased in metal and Stefan knows it.

"I know of him, mostly stories that seem a little fantastical. Shifters exaggerate just like common people. They like their war stories."

"Tell me of him. Tell me a war story."

Golden Boy by trilliath | 127.7K | Explicit

Apparently it still amuses his uncle to buy sex slaves for him, no matter how steadfastly he refuses to use them. Derek ducks into his tent with a resigned sigh, prepared to dress and reassign whatever new beauty Peter has bought him. They do make for loyal servants, so he can't really complain about Peter's 'gifts'. But it is annoying to deal with, to have to spend his evening sorting out a slave instead of being able to go right to bed. It's just something he has to learn to accept as a byproduct of serving alongside his uncle.

But when he lays eyes on the boy laying amid his furs, he finds his breath catching in his throat. His skin is golden with the candle-light glimmering against the sheen of oil that has been slathered on his bared body. His lips are parted, and they work over inaudible words or sounds. His skin is flushed, nipples peaked and pierced with simple but unexpected golden rings. He's spectacularly beautiful in the candlelight. The many glowing candles that have been added to his usual lighting cast glittering edges and shadows, imbuing an almost unearthly golden color to his skin.

It's enough that Derek hesitates.

Unknown Kindness in a Cruel World by Dexterous_Sinistrous | 35.3K | Explicit

The prince carefully observed Stiles. “Do you know who I am?”

Stiles knew he should have. “No,” he answered, knowing the pimp would be unhappy with that answer.

“Are you afraid of me?” The prince asked, his eyes never leaving Stiles.

Stiles’ heart was pounding in his ears, adrenaline pumping through his veins. He knew the pimp would want him to answer with a quip or flirtation. But Stiles didn’t want to lie—not to the prince. And he couldn’t tell why. “No,” he truthfully answered.

This Was How Legends Were Made by 108.5K | Explicit

Caught between the Hales and the Argents in their war, Stiles finds himself a slave of the great Hale pack. Stiles spends each day working hard, hoping to earn his freedom and see his sick father. It also seems each day he’s capturing more and more attention from Derek, the young Hale lord. Stiles tells himself it’s mostly because Derek is merely trying to figure out how to send the annoying, useless slave away- not because of affection, despite the tales coming from the rumor mill.

It doesn’t matter what Derek's intentions are. Stiles can’t bother with love right now. He's got to keep his head down and survive long enough to keep his promise to Kate Argent. After all, she's promised to keep his father safe.

Thank You For This Dance by matildajones | 62.4K | Mature

Derek is not one for dancing, but at a ball he meets Stiles, an orphan, and he becomes quickly attached. He does not care what other people think about Stiles' wealth and status, but it's a lot harder for Stiles to ignore the comments that have haunted him his whole life.

It's even harder to convince Stiles that Derek's feelings are genuine.

The One With The Scottish Wolf Lord by Stoney | 11.7K | Explicit

The Hales are alive and a royal family in Scotland; Stiles is the waif sent to work in the kitchens, elevated to personal attendant/servant to the young Lord Hale. Who happens to be a wolf who can't shift back. (Not without finding... *spoiler*)

The Well of Living Waters by kalpurna | 30.3K | Explicit

King Derek takes a consort.

@the-diggler suggested this one.

A Crooked Way to Fly by andavs | 14.9K

“We can’t just leave him here to die.”

“He’s an emissary, Scott.” Derek tried to make his tone empathetic, but Scott’s tendency to fight back on everything always grated on his nerves. “His pack is gone, he won’t survive more than a day or two either way.”

“Then we should stay with him.”

Derek sighed as he studied the man for a moment; he was too pale against the fur rim of his hood, almost grey from lying out in the snow, and his cloak was stained with dark dried blood around a protruding arrow shaft. It was unlikely he would even last the night. They would probably be able to carry on in the morning with little time lost, if any.

[okiecookie20]

EXO Obsession theory - pt 2

Part 1 | Have a Xiumiñ first❣️

• Let's analyze the EXODEUX Trailer (I'll point out clues and try to decipher them!)

We see the phases of the moon. In some way this represents how half side is bright and the other dark (that could mean that EXO has to endure the fight since both parts are their own):

Crudely we understand that they have to remain in a state of balance to be the legends but RF has somehow disturbed this balance.

The trailer was released on 8 Nov '19. What if X-EXO came alive on the blood moon (total lunar eclipse)? The phenomenon had been observed sometime in Nov 1909, 1928, 2022. A solar eclipse is shown and then we see destruction. I'm confident that EXO regain powers from this as seen in Power, What is Love. And since X-EXO are their halves or smth they get powers too.

Exo Planet #4 - The EℓyXiOn vcr shows us how the exos were being chased by some unknown beings who had the same powers as them. Kai opened the portal doors and rescued them just in time. Now we know these beings were X-EXO.

Okay so first they show us what is the result of X-EXO's actions. We find that from 0:11 some member's dna turns black (at first I thought it faded and crumbled) and then Kāi is shown — it could be a hint that it's him who is corrupted as he also fades.

Then appears THE TREE OF LIFE?!! And a fire which renders it dry 😦(the mv seems to be set on exoplanet). We can see how the eye of the RF coveted the heart of the tree as was prophesied in MAMA intro.

Since we see Chanyeol's power directly harming it, I'm convinced what I discussed about him here might be true... Next we see a sandstorm and then booming thunder (Respective x-exo members shown in reverse order then)

I'm sure u must have noticed all this but from 0:32, something very interesting happens: a red drop is shown to separate from a source of water and it shines as it ascends. Suhø's (abs gjjdjd) shot is briefly interrupted by Baëkhyun - hmm.

Even in the photobooks, they have pics next to each other. This could mean that they're together in on smth. (Notice Suhø's hand on his throat, I'll discuss about this later in this post)

In the EXplOration Dot vcr, we find Baëkhyun looking at a screen. I'm pretty sure he is monitoring the other members. This leads to another theory of a binary between him and Suhø.

Back to EXODEUX, exo's powers prove to be very destructive since they've fallen into wrong hands. At 0:56 we see them facing a red celestial ball very much like our sun but creepy. Is this the eye of the RF? Another possibility is that it could be one of the two suns created as shown in Power intro because the legends separated into M & K. Once again we see Suhø and Baëkhyun facing each other:

We get a closer look at their eyes and all seem to have blue eyes:

Hold it! Chën has one blue eye and one dark brown!!! (he has red and white lashes too)

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The conclusion I make from these clues is that jongdae has learnt how to regain that balance we talked about. So my earlier assumption as discussed in part i might not be correct and it is Chen who has won the fight. At first Chën looks confident but slowly as the game progresses, it is Chen who becomes more confident - he put his feet on the table.

• Let's analyze the mv now. The first fight shown is of Baek and his evil counterpart in a match of fencing. We see that the audience is dark hooded figures with red eyes:

One thing I noticed is that when Baekhyun is shown alone, there are white lights turned on and the stands for the audience are empty. But when Baëkhyun is alone, the lights are off and some red lights glow overhead (cctv cams?).

Baëkhyun looked like he hurt himself in the fight (some people theorize he wears a face-chain to cover his wound):

I would safely assume that nobody won or lost the match. This is because both are seen facing each other even in the final shot of this set.

• Moving on to Sehun; he tries to aim arrows at his evil double Sehůn. We see how many times he has tried but missed his target. There is a similar blue target behind Sehun too:

In EXODEUX we look closely at the aesthetic of X-EXO's eyes and all of them have dark makeup or scars - all but Sehůn! His eyes are clean and pure from the influence of the RF.

In the teaser poster below, Sehůn (case 94) is the only one on whom the target is not locked!

He is never seen with his double and is trying to fake it and trick the RF!! While the other X-EXO mems look sinister/appear expressive, Sehůn seems unbothered.

He is the only member who has concept pics with a blue background. Furthermore, his nails are almost clean and not like the other X-EXO ppl.

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Sehun is also the only Exo member to appear in the EXODEUX Trailer at the end. All of this is too much of a coincidence and I believe he already fought his counterpart, won and has come to save EXO as we see in his mv remake (2014):

• Now let's talk about Suho's scenes. Suho is looking around in an art gallery full of pictures based on water and waves. He is suspended mid-air in the place but a new shot shows it is much more deeper than that both literally and figuratively: he is trapped underwater and his evil counterpart is the one trying to drown him.

Suhø is standing in water with 7 unknown hands reaching out to him - this could be a biblical reference to the seven deadly sins. Since the album was released in 2019, this is a nod to my fav group's 7th anniversary. Come to think of it he has red hair styled as devil's horns (junmyeon looks so perfect oml):

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A lot of us noticed that in the beginning, he is shown trying to control the members as if they are puppets (yeah well I've watched this mv in slow-mo many times)

At 1:55 we notice a choking Suhø (junmyeon confirmed this) - the imagery is very creepy. This is because if Suho drowns, his double would choke too.

Sehun shoots arrows at his evil counterpart and gets hurt himself.

The recurrent theme is that whichever side - the good or the evil one tries to harm the other, both suffer the same fate. Why? because they are halves of each other as we discussed in the beginning of this post.

Getting back to the mv, the planets start to align as this happens.

This is just like the narration in MAMA intro: ...The day the grounds beget a singe file before one sky...

The teaser posters have this "Warning" on them:

A messy world order Anomalies due to twisted orbits

Moving on, we find out how the X-EXO are nothing but agents and creation of the RF. Notice how the screen inside Suhø's head is very similar to the ones in and outside Chen's room.

•I'd like to talk about the red glowing marks on some of X-EXO ppl. Only Sehun's and Chanyeol's evil doubles do not glow. This could be another clue that Sehůn is good. The other X-EXO mems are corrupted. Instead Yeøl appears in inverted and oversaturated colors looking demonic.

• Another thing I noticed at around 3:06 of mv Jongdae and Suho sing this for the first time:

"The turned-on exit light" instead of "The turned-off exit light" as in chorus.

The ending shows a burning planet (initially I thought it was Earth but then I noticed it looked a bit different). SM confirmed it is "half of" exo Planet. Additionally it has a deep red glow ofc hinting this is because of the RF. There is still hope for exo to recover and defeat their enemies.

Thanks for reading!🍒 I'll probably make some compilation post for these theories.

[otherworldlyhope]

The Long Awaited Character Analysis

Arc 1 of the hermit zombie apocalypse au is now finished so I get to share all my little thoughts with you!! Just know that I might not be able to go as in depth with some of the characters as I do with others because they’re included in future arcs. If you don't want to hear me ramble about setting and morality, skip the first few paragraphs to get to the characters. But without further ado, let's get this started. 

Just a warning, this is pretty long so prepare yourself (like seriously). Also if you have any more questions just send an ask my way!

~ ~ ~

Setting: So when I first started writing I originally wanted this to be set in more of a countryside town so that the zombies weren’t the main focus of the story. Yes, this is a zombie apocalypse piece, but the first arc was always supposed to be about introducing characters and moralities, as well as focusing on some of the more niche topics in an apocalypse setting. I eventually came to the idea of having it be set in a city, but having the idea of hordes. 

The undead in this story have varying degrees of intelligence. While it’s unknown where the first wave came from, they are much smarter, and faster than any after them. As the infection is slowly passed down, the undead get dumber and slower, and eventually reach a herd mindset. The hordes are the biggest danger in the city, but thanks to Doc (the only good thing he really did) many of them have been contained or eliminated.

This solved my problem with having too much focus on the zombies, and created the perfect setting for this to take place. The city is very loosely based around Berkeley California. I figured it would be big, but not so big that there would be undead everywhere. Don't worry though, some later arcs will have some pretty heavy focus on the undead, so don't count it all out.

~ ~ ~

Morality: As mentioned in my notes on the fic, I don't like perfect characters. Every human is flawed in some way, and that makes characters no different. The interesting thing about this fic is that the simple human flaws that would be easy to ignore in real life are suddenly taken to the extreme. And not only are flaws blown out of proportion, but morality that would usually be deemed ‘good’ is not the way to live.

I will go a bit more into detail about the morality of certain characters later, but I wanted to make sure that not one person in this fic is perfect. Some characters may be easier to sympathize with, but none of them are objectively good. The whole point is that good has been turned in its head thanks to the nature of the apocalypse. 

~ ~ ~

Watchers: I wanted to do something a little different with this fic and the Watchers. The idea is that the people reading this and those watching their series are the watchers of this fic. I’m still toying with the idea, but I really like the fact that the audience enjoys watching them play out so many different scenarios that they (mostly me really) shape and influence their stories a bit.

~ ~ ~

Characters: (In order of when they appear in the fic, not in flashbacks)

Grian(21): The whole premise of Grian’s arc is that he’s observant beyond normal levels. It’s not explored much though, as he gets sick rather fast (another thing I wanted to showcase would very easily happen in an apocalypse situation). Still, it creates an idea that he’s not very good at making friends, making his group of trusted people rather small.

The thing about Grian is that he’s fiercely protective of the people that he trusts. When he’s figured a person out completely, he almost feels bonded to them. Because of this, he places their safety over his from that point on. He only gets more stressed the more people he feels he needs to protect (something that will be shown in later arcs). 

Grian is a realist though. He understands just how dangerous the world they are in is, and he constantly is taking into account the steps necessary to keep his group from danger. When he falls from that roof everything is thrown into chaos. Not only is he actively fighting a major infection and injuries, but he feels responsible for his group no longer being safe. Scar relieves some of that stress a bit, being the absolute goof he is, but it’s still not much. Throughout the weeks with Scar he’s finally able to relax just a bit, and understand that maybe he’s not right about everything. 

Morality wise, Grian likes to think that he’s a good person. Once again, he is a realist, so when the idea came to him to set traps for Doc’s people he went with it quickly. It was the only way to protect his group, but it constantly is tugging at his conscience. He still believes that good people are out there, and that he might be one of them, but if he and they are not. then he will make sure none of them can get to his family.

Scar(22): Scar is a strange one, putting it simply. His upbringing made him grow up a lot faster than most kids did, and so when he was only 16 he started working for Doc. He was a collection boy who would run deliveries and collect any money or goods that Doc needed. Many of his older scars stem from fights and close calls he had through his years working for Doc.

The only reason he stayed with the Perimeter after the first wave was because of Cub. His brother meant the world to him, and he always felt he owed Cub for everything he did for Scar. Cub’s death absolutely rocked Scar’s world, and he spent months in his apartment, simmering. When he finally realized that he could make allies and receive great supplies from arms dealing, he jumped on the chance. By this time Doc had completely set up the Perimeter's tight security, but Scar had some friends on the inside willing to sneak him in and out.

He took everything he learned from Doc and used it to supply those against him. Not only that, he developed an alter ego, The Joker, who took every chance to destroy Doc’s work. In his mind, it was revenge for Cub, and it turned him into an unbreakable wall with a devilish smile and charm. 

Over the course of the fic Scar starts to realize that maybe he doesn’t need to be that person anymore. Thanks to Grian he is able to heal a bit from Cub and be close enough with another person that his humanity starts to show again. He’s a very touchy person, and so the second he’s able to be around other people, he doesn’t want to let go.

Scar’s morality is pretty set in stone. He doesn’t think he’s a good person, and not a single person left is. He fakes optimism at every turn, but deep down he believes that good is something that doesn’t really exist anymore. His conscience died with Cub, and most guilty thoughts are immediately pushed away. Every once in a while he will realize that he’s out of line, but for the most part he’s able to justify his actions with the idea that good is simply a construct.

Etho(22): Etho is a firm believer of revenge. Arc 3 is solely dedicated to this idea of Etho’s revenge, and much of his background, but I can share that he’s had an interesting relationship with it since childhood. As a seemingly mild mannered Canadian, he uses that fact to his full advantage whenever he can. A lethal fighter, Etho is easily able to dispatch both undead and people without a second thought. 

He firmly believes that he is a runner, not a protector, at least until he meets Bdubs. Before meeting Bdubs, Etho was alone, and he did many things that... aren’t exactly the nicest to say the least. His gun bears the marks of every person he’s killed, a fact that he never shared with Bdubs. Morality is not much of a concern to Etho. He makes decisions and he sticks with them. Whatever consequences that come are simply what happens.

His characterization will be much more detailed in his own personal arc which, I’m telling you right now, is the one I’m most excited for.

Bdubs(23): The thing about Bdubs is that he’s a very energetic person. Before the apocalypse he was an art major, but not really. He constantly blew off classes to go out and party. Being social is what makes Bdubs feel alive. When the wave hit, he quickly grouped up with anyone he could find. He constantly jumped ship when it seemed like his group was going down, and that’s when he met Doc. 

The story behind Tango’s stabbing and Bdubs’ betrayal is all shared in arc 2 so I can’t tell it quite yet. It does cement the one trait about Bdubs that stays constant in this; he will do anything that is convenient for him, and will betray anyone to get what he wants. This makes his morality a little shady because he is practically loyal to no one except himself, and won’t hesitate to send someone towards their death because of it. 

Etho seems to be the only one that combats that. Something about Etho’s nature makes Bdubs want to help him as well. In the months that they are partners, both sort of repress the traits that initially helped them survive. Together they survive by teamwork instead of betrayal and revenge, which I think is pretty neat. 

Pearl(23, barely): Initially Pearl was the middle child in the family, but in order for her to be as advanced in her degree as I wanted, she had to be the oldest. She very easily falls into the traits of the middle child, as opposed to Grian who takes on the role of protector. She’s a very impulsive person, which helped her normally, but in the apocalypse kind of screws her over a lot.

Despite her medical knowledge, she doesn’t really feel all that well suited for the apocalypse. She believes the one thing that she has going for her is that red haze that has helped her survive time and time again.

That’s not the only weird thing she notices. She often dreams of a forest, a bloodstained axe in her hands. Every time she wakes all she can hear is 'something wicked this way comes' ringing in her ears. Pearl isn’t very superstitious, but she can’t help but believe that she was a warrior or something in a past life. 

Pearl is also obsessed with the moon. On nights she doesn't dream of a forest, she dreams of the moon. Sometimes she’s running across the surface, sometimes she can hold it in her hands, but the moon is always her friend.

Her morality isn’t nearly as complicated as the others. She sees what her group does as a necessary evil, and that’s all. Despite having gone into health, she never really got to the point where she felt the need to take care of everyone around her. Depending on how good of a person you are to her, she will treat you accordingly. She will be getting a bit more characterization in arc 2 and possibly beyond.

Mumbo(20): Mumbo often believes that he should have died the first day when the zombies crashed into the science building. He’s not a great fighter, or a runner really. His talents lie in creating, and he creates some wild things in the course of this au. Because of this, he’s pretty harsh on himself, but he brings the group something really nice; level headedness. 

Both Pearl and Grian are stubborn, even though Grian won’t admit it, and so Mumbo brings a nice balance to their insanity. He’s often creating something, so he’s always able to just be there to be around. While he may be a little awkward to talk to, he always has the best advice. 

Despite his nervous tendencies, he handles himself rather well when it comes to the zombies and people. His height, and put together appearance is often rather intimidating to others. He will never admit that he owns over a hundred of the same white shirt either, and every time they pass his old apartment he restocks. (There was a sale once a year at his favorite shop and he bought at least 20 shirts every time.) Honestly he doesn’t even really want to wear it all the time, he just finds it funny now.

He is a very cut and dry guy morality wise. He doesn’t like death or killing people, but if it's necessary to survive he’ll do it. Killing zombies is never really a problem to him though, he never once saw them as people anyways.

Ren(25): Ren is a long time member of very seedy groups around the city. Similarly to Scar he started getting into the crime side of the city fairly young. Unfortunately he didn’t just do ‘deliveries’ and was often right in the action, seeing and doing awful things. Because of this, the group he was in had a lot of receipts and proof of his deeds. Even when he eventually wanted to leave, he was unable to due to all the proof against him.

This is the reason that Ren very quickly became loyal to Doc. Instead of expecting him to do the dirty work, Doc did it himself. Ren’s loyalty is almost detrimental to him at times though. Often he puts himself in far too much danger, forgetting that he is so high up in ranks. In his mind he’s still a low level grunt that does what the bosses tell him to. 

Oftentimes he is compared to a guard dog. Thanks to years of experience, he has no problems threatening and killing those that oppose him. He is unwavering in his allegiance to Doc, until he starts to remind him just a little bit too much like his old group. Over the course of just a few weeks Ren starts to realize that Doc may not be the person he wants to protect. 

Ren’s morality is rather questionable as he’s never really had a person in his life showing him what’s right. Because of this, he never really realized just how screwed up Doc’s worldview was until it got really extreme. Only when Martyn and him start to become friends does he realize that Doc isn’t having Ren do good things. More on those two in a later fic though.

Doc(26): Doc is one of the more complex characters in the sense that he genuinely believes he’s doing the right thing. Even before the apocalypse he saw nothing wrong with his crimes behind the scenes. In his eyes the government was corrupt and his ideals were the right way to do things.

With this mindset he got himself into a lot of trouble though. After a rather nasty war with another crime group he lost his hand to the leader, Dinnerbone. (He killed him though, a feat everyone thought was impossible) Doc is a very smart guy, so he ended up building himself an entirely new arm from scratch, only coming back better from the fight. Because of his power and determination, his people are extremely loyal to him. 

When the zombies hit, he quickly realized that he could capitalize on this. His vision is to have the entire city under his thumb much like how he envisioned it before the apocalypse. This vision quickly gets many people on his side, and only grows his ego. Only when he finds out that Jimmy is a traitor does he begin to realize that maybe he doesn’t have everything under control.

Grian only irks him more. Being the brother of one of the few people to slip under his radar, he quickly sets his sight on him. His obsession with catching both Grian and The Joker (unknowingly Scar) starts to drive him insane. He starts to make small mistakes, which slowly leads to large cracks and distrust in his preciously built organization. It all falls apart at the Buttercup takeover, and he finally takes one last shot at Grian and fails.

His sense of morals is all but gone by this point in time. The only lives he cares about are those that are useful to him. The only person he sees as an actual person is Ren, everyone else is simply a chess piece for his victory. Because of this he feels no shame using them to further his goals. The only reason he gets so offended at Grian killing them is that it creates a loss in numbers.

Impulse(26), Skizz(27), Zedaph(25): This group and the Buttercup Resistance will be explored and explained in the second arc, but let me tell you, their dynamic is so good.

There are some more characters I haven't mentioned, but their stories will be thoroughly explained in later arcs. So far I’ve got a general idea of how the arcs will go, but it may be subject to change so don't take this as fact yet.

Arc 1- Grian and Scar (introduction of most characters)

Arc 2- Tango and Jimmy (Empires introduction and start)

Arc 3- Etho (y’all better be ready for this one)

Arc 4- Ren and Martyn (we're going back to third life for this one)

Arc 5- Joel and Lizzie (Along with Empires crew)

Arc 6 and on????

[loveinhawkins]

oh right! okay, here we go! so we get Eddie's pov of Steve's wake-up (obviously, it's in his pov entirely and he was right there), but of course we don't know how Steve experienced it--and there's a pretty big stretch of time between that and the next morning, when Eddie next sees him. I guess this one is kind of a two in one ask? because we also don't know how much Steve was acting better than he felt, or how much effort it was taking, especially that first morning after they ran who-knows-how-many tests on who-knows-what.

ooo! okay yeah Eddie’s POV means he misses quite a bit here.

So Steve deliberately sends Eddie away & while that’s partly motivated by him kinda compartmentalising & thinking ‘wow what a traumatic situation… for Eddie’ rather than processing all that he’s gone through (also just Steve being observant in general,seeing that Eddie’s reached his emotional limit & needs to see Wayne), there’s also, like, a proudness to Steve in that he doesn’t want anyone to see him at his lowest, which Eddie sort of picks up on when he sees him later:

Steve is sitting up as straight as he can, like he’s proving a point. It makes Eddie suspect that, as soon as he’d left, Steve had tried to speedrun recovery while no-one was looking.

plus even though at this point Steve is trying really hard to Not Think About It All, when he’s facing the doctors alone, he gets angry, both for himself and everyone he loves that’s been affected by The Upside Down. there’s a tiny display of Steve not backing down when he later says he told them not to disturb Eddie while he was sleeping: “I kinda demanded that they didn’t wake you up. Thought it was the least they could do.”

also with the speed of the first stage of Steve’s physical recovery, it doesn’t exactly help Steve stop repressing everything because he now has a reminder that ‘well, you’ve been checked out, it’s “ordinary injuries” now technically so you should be fine’. He does still try to advocate for himself—he insists on being treated for his speech & breathing first, because above all he wants to be able to talk to his friends, but well, he’s just a nineteen year old boy & he’s faced with people who’re relieved they don’t have to deal with frantic parents at his bedside, who just want the easy route of getting this over and done with & brush him aside. (Which Joyce & Hopper are later furious about.) Eddie again picks up on this slightly:

And Eddie knows that this version of events is no doubt highly sanitised—yet even with Steve’s nonchalant delivery, he gets the impression that whatever the doctors greeted him with had been less reassuring and more, you’re out the fucking twilight zone, kid, just be grateful and don’t ask too many questions.

& yeah in my head there’s doctors & whatnot who know of The Upside Down observing Hawkins (I’m imagining that not just Sam Owens survived s2, but from Eddie’s POV that knowledge is unknown), who only leap into action when it really can’t be ignored anymore with the “earthquake.”

as for how much effort Steve was putting in to appear fine—oh, a lot. The tests that are run are basically to check that there’s no traces of The Upside Down in him after the injuries Henry’s caused—They don’t want a Will Byers 1984 situation again—and the leftover pain in his chest etc is causing flashbacks to when he was dying & couldn’t breathe. He doesn’t sleep for the whole night after sending Eddie away, stays awake for the rest of the following day until Robin and Dustin leave.

fic director’s commentary ask game