#there won't be a place for them much longer

[6okuto]

TS Cast Celebrating Your Birthday

GN!Reader | most of this can be read platonically! reader often forgets their birthday or doesn't really celebrate (but implicitly wants to!!). solo chara and a few for all of them at the end ^__^

for reg my beloved @bananacockatiel oh my Goodness HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! YAHYAYHO

LEANDER

Doesn't matter how long he's known your birthday's coming up—maybe he's known for months, maybe you only mentioned it last week—this is the most uncasual guy ever. /affectionate /what's your problem. But I will say if you've known each other a while and he finds out with days to spare? It's kind of hilarious to see how much Leander's eyes widen and the panic that sets in for a second. Genuinely has no clue how he's fumbled this hard.

If you don't celebrate because of bad memories or emotions, he says he wants to make good ones for you instead. This is your day! You think you don't deserve the celebration or gifts? WRONG!!

Obviously if you don't enjoy big parties, he won't throw one. Saying this because out of all the LI's I think Leander is the only one to think of or really Capable of planning a big party himself. Cross out the idea to announce it's your birthday at the Wet Wick and say drinks are on him and that everyone who gives you a gift gets .. something cool.

But that doesn't mean he won't spoil you and give you everything you rightfully deserve!! You guys can spend the day together, even the week if you want! He promises he's completely and wholly yours, duties taken care of and handed off to trusted Adders.

He's calling in favours, charming his pants off (not literally), remembering everything and every place you've shown interest in. You don't even remember a third of them, but Leander does. He is LOCKED! IN!

By the sound of this you think you'd be overwhelmed. You probably are at first because you don't expect how much he's prepared, even knowing it's Leander, and you're not used to it. But Leander is nothing if not attentive and working for you! However much walking or social interaction etc is your limit, he works with it in mind, and is always willing to take breaks or, if you're out and about, go home if you'd like. You still have him after all :-) ;) /silly flirting but sincere promise.

Little magic show... Leander's the type of guy to take you to a hidden area and show off with pretty lights and magic and watch you with an affectionate smile. Type of guy to pull you to dance when there's no music so you both start singing. Etc.

If you're completely worn out from the day, he'll part with a final "Happy birthday" (and kiss), letting you go to bed. If you'd like him to join you, he's happy to cuddle you to bed too!

VERE

I couldn't have animal ears and a tail because my already shit poker face would be even worse. Him? Interested/invested in it being your birthday soon? Yes! Vere plays it off if it's just not really a big deal to you. But if it's because you haven't enjoyed your birthday in a long time, he has a longer pause of... contemplation...

Anyone think about how many shitty ones he's spent alone or working and how many he might've tried to make up for it?! 🤔

I think. He would want to do something/go some place special...? His initial thought isn't to just hang out for the day. That isn't good enough for him or for you!! I wouldn't put it past him to just be like. Be ready by 7 and dress nice. And you just have to trust him. As you always have to /lh /vere move

Type of guy to tell you to use your birthday to your advantage. Something something joke about a fake marriage proposal for double the free service before Vere reminds you that it'd be quite unbelievable to your audience that he'd be getting married, but he's flattered you were up for the idea

Vere sticks by your side at any crowded establishments/venues. This is one of the few times that, if he can't just call someone over, he'll tell you to stay sitting while he gets the drinks. I hope you're honoured to not only have his undivided attention for the night, but some of his service!

Vere picking up the bill ?! Voluntarily ?! Even declining your attempt to pay ?! Though if you want to give him the money feel free ;) /silly /he will not take your money put it Away!!

Art gift art gift! His soft spot for handmade gifts works here too!! Debating if I'm endeared more by Vere thinking of what to draw super easily because it's you, or erasing multiple ideas (like the drawing of Mhin) because. It's you.

Hah.. Vere trying to do something related to your hobbies (e.g. I don't know. crocheting a little guy. cooking.). struggling.. getting annoyed but also refusing to give up... it's totally because of his image and pride and not because he really cares about you of course obviously. His respect for your interest grows even more if he's particularly bad at it.

MHIN

"They don't know how to celebrate [their birthday] though, or if they even should..." Okayyyy. We got two peas in a pod here

They try to gauge/ask about how you feel about your birthday. Instinctively, they want to do something, but I think Mhin's the quickest to worry that maybe you really don't want that, or that their ideas wouldn't be...good (enough)... They also face the most turmoil about buying or making a gift.

When it comes to plans, Mhin keeps it lowkey. If they know you enjoy the others' company or are their friends, they (begrudgingly) mention your birthday because even if they hate Vere and can't stand being around Leander too long, your birthday is important! They'd like to see you happy :-)

Your birthday comes around... you've forgotten... Mhin greets you with a gift... you're like ?! What's the occasion.. For a second they panic like oh my god it isn't your birthday? Anyway it turns out fine and they Very Lightly chide you for forgetting with a sigh

They schedule the day so they don't have commission work to do, and also finish working early the days leading up to it to look for a gift. Luckily, they pay attention to your interests, so they easily pick through things and get something thoughtful!! No worries about that fr :3 (I can also see them making something!! It's just... looking at their schedule.. um.. Wow.)

They also write a heartfelt letter that they Don't let you open until you've separated because they're embarrassed. It isn't very long, but it's sweet!

They want to treat you to food and take you stargazing among other things, but they keep reminding you that if you'd like to do something else, you can. And you're like Mhin no this is really nice thank you and they're . . . . (blush sprite) but trust you're being honest

The cats... orz. While I'm fascinated by the thought of Mhin as a supernatural cat whisperer, I'm endeared by the idea that the cats are just more affectionate that day without prompting and you get to say They Knew! who can say you're wrong!!

Mhin gets food for you and the cats want a piece... they struggle to say no but this is one of those times that hey, this isn't for you... they gently bump cats away and try to keep the meal out of reach... and then you're like you can have a bit little buddy :3 and Mhin's like ?! ... Of course you would

KURAS

?! Insert surprised Kuras sprite here. He knows he's often busy working and doesn't see you as much as he wants, but your birthday is soon and he's only finding out now? Do you know how ironic it is that the guy who forgets his own birthday is shocked you forgot (to mention) yours btw. You're both pointing at each other like Hello?? Kuras concedes and says Fair point

I think. He's pretty confident in making plans himself. But I'm also not sure if he's super aware of local events or fancy restaurants with how.. his life is... so maybe he asks Leander or Ais or other visitors.

He probably still has to work for a portion of the day, but trust that he keeps thinking of you when he has the time to spare. As soon as Kuras sees you, he's smiling and asking how your birthday's been so far, not letting you worry about his day at work.

He's more talkative today! Consider his openness a birthday gift alone—talking about the history of places, little funny stories, things he's done that people would be shocked by. He's also interested in you sharing stories too, and I think. Few have heard Kuras laugh. And YOU can and will be one of the few today!! Trust.

I don't think Kuras's gift would be handmade but that could depend on the time he has. Not to say that handmade gifts are The best and only ones ever. Trust that he'd have mulled over the decision and chosen with a lot of care!! Handing it to you, he describes his thought process and reassures you that if you don't like it, you don't have to keep it.

If it isn't cold, you end the night with a walk by the river! Maybe you talk about your day, or you can just appreciate the view and walk quietly together. But as someone with a winter birthday, I recognize those who might be unlucky with the weather. Sob. In that case,... I'd hope you get to stay at one of your homes... I feel like Kuras wouldn't want to bring you to the clinic like. LOL. He'd be pretty apologetic about that

Iirc Kuras like, radiates. warmth/heat. or something. So if that's at all correct, if it gets chilly as you walk place to place, he stays closer to you! Or at least offers to do so. Walking through town holding hands with the handsome angel doctor... Think about that. Yeah

AIS

Guy who deeply understands not admitting you enjoy thoughtful gestures or want a party. Everyone here has issues.

He's very good at keeping his plans a secret and playing it cool! It helps that your birthday is barely on your mind, so he can dismiss things as chores or boredom. Plus y'know groupmind stuff something working together something. He's so good you might think he's forgotten, or is super super chill about it.

You're at the Seaspring... Princess is excited... You're like Did something happen? Ais stares. "You didn't forget, did you?" Yes you absolutely did. He jokingly rolls his eyes and like, pats your head or hands you a gift or something and says happy birthday.

If he knows you'd enjoy a surprise party or something with the others, he'll make sure to find some time in the evening (if you aren't already planning on going to the Wet Wick)! But your birthday always ends with just the two of you so you can wind down and relax.

I see him being adamant about you making a wish. Like it's almost weird but also this makes sense to me...? Not sure why. Something something having something to look forward to, it's cute, something something

Walk with me. Matching jewelry. That wouldn't be his only gift though. I think Ais would get you something that's Very You or very helpful, even unexpectedly so!! He noticed an issue or inconvenience you've been dealing with without you even complaining about it.

Mm. Not beneath him to do a little prank gift beforehand though. Less Exploding Glitter, more opening a box to a smaller box then a smaller one and smaller one.

Princess BRINGING YOU A GIFT!! wouldn't that be lovely I dream of this. You give Ais no credit despite the note with his handwriting and Princess looks soo happy and Ais is playfully offended

At the end of the night, he asks if this birthday made up for all the bad ones, or ones you've missed. He has a lighthearted tone, but you hear the genuine curiosity laced in his question. When you say yes, his smile softens into something more genuine. "Good. You deserve it."

ALL

Partyayyyy!! These are Vibes for sure. But they're all behaving themselves and being.. nice enough.. if they're all purposefully in the same space for a (relatively) long period of time,, that says something about you! Great and powerful influence!! Even if they're bickering, individually, I prOMISE they hope you have a good birthday!

If this is a modern AU you bet your ass Leander is going Group Picture/Selfie :D !! Now do a silly one LIKFNSJHGBJHBG

I can imagine him, Vere, and Ais all saying some version of "You want us/these guys to do anything? It's your birthday" which is why I didn't put this in their solos like Ok ms repetitive. Leander's feels more sincere, Vere and Ais are fully prepared to take the piss. You can get some weird ass bet or situation going on. Ais will start a fight in your honour #happybirthday before punching someone in the FACE! (He will also refrain from starting one if That's your wish)

Sure you can open all their gifts in front of them... As long as you're prepared for snarky comments and ranking of gifts from your audience. It isn't a competition but as soon as you pick up Leander's gift Vere is giving it a 0/10 throw it in the trash it's probably some experimental beverage that tastes like the bottom of his boot LFMSGHJHB

(Though I think Mhin would be the most against the idea so you might open theirs later)

Also. I think this works with multiple LIs if not All of them but if you're ever like, you didn't have to do this, why did you do this for me, etc. etc. they tease you like, Did you forget it's your birthday again? We've been celebrating for a while already.

reg... so sorry if it's not ur birthday anymore when u see this.. i don't think it will be.. SOB i forgot about timezones oh my goodness... I HOPE IT WAS A GOOD ONE!! :') am honored u let me write this. Kicking my feet jumping up and down 🤍 🤍

[thirteenheavens]

fwb w wonwoo pls

Want to come over?|| Jeon Wonwoo

Word count: 1656

Notes: hope you enjoy guys back from my lil break <3

Your phone buzzes on your nightstand, interrupting your late-night reading. You glance at the screen and see Wonwoo's name, along with a message that makes your heart skip a beat.

Wonwoo: Hey Y-N, I can't sleep. I need you. Want to come over?

You've been friends with benefits with Wonwoo for a while now, but you still get butterflies whenever he initiates something. He knows your body so well, and his texts always get your imagination racing. You bite your lip, considering his invitation. It's late, but you know how worked up he can get when he can't sleep. And honestly, the thought of him needing you like this is making you wet already.

Y/N: Sure, I'll be there in 15.

You send the message and quickly get dressed, your mind already racing with images of what's to come. You know Wonwoo won't be able to keep his hands off you once you arrive.

You grab your keys and wallet, throwing on a casual outfit that's easy to remove. The drive to Wonwoo's place feels longer than usual, your anticipation growing with each passing minute. When you arrive, you see his lights are still on and his car is parked in the driveway. You knock on the door, and he answers almost immediately, his hair messy and eyes dark with desire.

"You came," he says huskily, pulling you inside and pressing you against the wall. "I've been thinking about you all night." His hands slide under your shirt, his fingers hot against your skin as he kisses you deeply. The familiar taste of him makes your knees weak, and you can feel his hardness pressing against you through his sweatpants.

"I couldn't resist," you gasp between kisses, running your hands down his bare chest. "You know I can't say no to you." Wonwoo groans against your neck, his hands roaming over your body possessively. "Good," he murmurs, nipping at your skin. "Because I need you too much." He lifts you effortlessly, carrying you to his bedroom while still kissing you hungrily. Once there, he lays you down on the bed and climbs on top of you, his body caging you in.

"You're so beautiful," he says, his eyes drinking in the sight of you beneath him. "I've been craving you all day." Wonwoo settles between your legs, his body warm and heavy against yours. His hands slide under your shirt again, this time pushing it up and over your head.

"So perfect," he murmurs, admiring your bare breasts as he tosses your shirt aside. His lips find your neck, trailing down to your collarbone as his hands cup your breasts. You arch into his touch, feeling his hard cock pressing against your thigh through his sweatpants. "Wonwoo..." you moan softly, tangling your fingers in his hair.

He smiles against your skin, his fingers finding your nipples and rolling them gently between his thumb and forefinger. "That's it, baby," he encourages. "Let me hear you." Wonwoo's mouth continues its path down your body, leaving hot kisses on your chest and stomach. He stops at the waistband of your pants, looking up at you with a smirk.

"These need to come off," he says, his fingers already working on undoing them. "I want to taste you properly." He slides your pants down and tosses them aside, his eyes darkening at the sight of your wet panties. "You're already so wet for me," he groans, running a finger along the damp fabric.

"Wonwoo, please," you beg, needing more than just his teasing touches. "I need you inside me." Wonwoo's smile widens as he hooks his fingers into your panties and pulls them down slowly, revealing your glistening folds.

"Patience," he chides playfully, though his own control is slipping. "I want to make you feel good first." He lowers his head between your legs, inhaling deeply before pressing his tongue against your clit. "You smell amazing," he murmurs against you, before licking a slow stripe up your slit.

His tongue circles your clit teasingly, sending waves of pleasure through your body. He knows exactly how to play your body like an instrument, and he's eager to make you sing. Wonwoo usually moves quickly when he's with you, but tonight he's taking his time. He's savoring the taste of you, exploring every inch of your sensitive flesh with his tongue.

"I want to make this last," he murmurs between licks, his hot breath fanning against your skin. "I want to feel you trembling around my tongue." He gently pushes your legs wider apart, giving him better access to your most intimate parts. His tongue delves deeper, teasing at your entrance before sliding back up to circle your clit.

"You taste so sweet," he groans, his hands gripping your thighs possessively. "I could do this all night."

"Wonwoo, I can't take it anymore," you whimper, your body writhing beneath his skilled tongue. "I need you inside me. Please." He looks up at you with dark, lust-filled eyes, a smirk playing on his lips. "Since you asked so nicely..." He crawls up your body, leaving a trail of kisses along the way. When he reaches your lips, he kisses you deeply, letting you taste yourself on his tongue.

"Roll over," he commands huskily, his hand caressing your hip. "I want to take you from behind." You roll over onto your stomach, presenting yourself to him in a vulnerable position. Wonwoo positions himself behind you, his hard cock pressing against your entrance.

"So obedient," he praises, his hands gripping your hips as he guides himself inside. "You're always so good for me." He slides in slowly, savoring the feeling of your tight heat enveloping him. "Fuck," he groans, once he's fully seated inside you. "You're always so tight." He starts to move, his hips thrusting in a steady rhythm that has you moaning into the pillow. His hands grip your hips tighter, pulling you back to meet each thrust.

"You take me so well," he growls, his pace increasing as he gets more worked up. "Like you were made for my cock.” Wonwoo's usual playful demeanor is gone, replaced by a darker, more intense energy. His thrusts are rougher than usual, his grip on your hips almost bruising.

"Mine," he growls possessively, his teeth sinking into your shoulder. "You're all mine, no one else can have you." He leans over you, his chest pressing against your back as he fucks you harder. "I don't want anyone else touching you," he whispers harshly in your ear. "You belong to me."

His words and actions are unexpectedly dominant and claiming, making you wonder what's gotten into him tonight. Wonwoo's words are sending shivers down your spine, but there's an edge to his possessiveness that's both exciting and worrying.

He continues to pound into you, his thrusts becoming almost brutal as he claims you. "Say it," he demands, his voice low and rough. "Say you're mine." You're not sure where this sudden need for possession is coming from, but you can't deny the way it's making your heart race. "I'm yours, Wonwoo," you moan, surrendering to his dominance.

He growls in satisfaction, his hips slamming against yours as he chases his own release. "Good girl," he praises, though there's a hint of darkness in his tone. "Now cum for me. Let me feel you cum all over my cock." You feel yourself getting closer to the edge, the combination of his rough thrusts and possessive words driving you wild.

"I'm going to cum," you gasp, your fingers clutching the sheets as your orgasm builds. "Please, don't stop." Wonwoo leans down to bite your ear. "Cum for me, baby," he commands, his voice rough with need. "I want to feel you fall apart." His fingers find your clit, rubbing it in tight circles as he continues to pound into you. The added stimulation pushes you over the edge, your orgasm crashing over you like a wave.

You cry out his name as you cum, your body convulsing around him. Wonwoo follows closely behind, his own orgasm triggered by your tightening walls. He buries himself deep inside you, filling you with his hot cum as he moans your name. "Mine," he whispers again, collapsing on top of you as he catches his breath.

You lie there in silence, your bodies still pressed together as you both come down from your intense orgasms. Wonwoo's breathing is heavy against your ear, his heartbeat racing against your back. The possessive air from earlier still lingers, but he seems more subdued now, his grip on you loosening slightly. You can sense that something is still on his mind, something he's not saying.

"Y-N," he finally breaks the silence, his voice soft and uncertain. "Can I ask you something?"

"Of course," you reply gently, turning your head to look at him. "What is it?" Wonwoo hesitates for a moment, his eyes searching your face. "I know we agreed on this arrangement," he says slowly. "But lately... I've been thinking that maybe I want more." Your heart skips a beat at his words. You've never discussed exclusivity or deeper feelings, but his possessiveness tonight makes sense now.

"What kind of more?" you ask carefully, wanting to understand what he's feeling. Wonwoo's eyes meet yours, his expression vulnerable and uncertain. "I don't know exactly," he admits. "But every time I see you with someone else, or when we're together and I have to hold back... I just can't stop thinking about how much I want you all to myself."

He takes a deep breath, running a hand through his messy hair. "I know it's complicated because of our agreement, but I need to know if there's a chance for us to be more than just friends with benefits." His confession hangs in the air between you, raw and honest. You can see the mixture of hope and fear in his eyes, unsure of how you'll respond.

[erogenousmind]

Conversational

What if every time we spoke, you found yourself drifting off for me? If every conversation left you dazed. If it became second nature for your mind to switch off because I was speaking to you.

You had let it be known how exciting you found being hypnotized covertly. How thrilling you found conversational inductions. And it is such an exciting idea. Knowing that you can never be sure you aren't being lured down into trance. That your surrender can leak out of the frame of formal hypnosis. That any time could be the right time to drop for me.

And you take to it so well, don't you? You find yourself drifting back into conversations, unsure of what we are talking about. Or catching yourself nodding along to my words, feeling so agreeable. Knowing that you can just listen and follow. And if I tell you its alright to let go, you find it so easy to do just that. Maybe later you realize what was happening. Or maybe your mind starts getting fuzzy again when you try to think back on it.

But you wonder if it has gone too far. You become dimly aware between our talks that you've let yourself be conditioned. When we are talking, of course, it's too difficult to think about much of anything but what you are being told. But other times you can be aware that a link has formed in your mind. The way I talk to you falls so naturally into those patterns that you respond to. Every exchange, you feel the pull of my words, always encouraging you deeper. And it feels so right. It feels so perfect to float away when I'm speaking. You don't need to think. I will think for you.

And the two become the same thing in your mind. I am speaking. You are in trance. Any dialogue of more than a few words, and you feel your thoughts dripping away. You can still respond of course. Usually. Telling me things you think I need to know. Ideas you wanted to convey. You get to share yourself with me fully. But it's always within that haze of submission. Until the act of saying "hello" becomes a trigger.

And part of you might worry about what that means. How weak you must be. How vulnerable you become if every time I speak to you, you feel your free will floating away, replaced by that drifty need to listen and obey. But then you see how it builds trust. How effortlessly you come to rely on me when we are together. You can't think for yourself, can't make decisions. So I decide for you. When we are together everything automatically feels so easy. You just do as you are told. You follow. You sink deeper. And it's intoxicating how comfortable that becomes. You look forward to every interaction because you know you get to turn your mind off. Because you know you won't have a choice.

And the longer our interactions grow, the more natural it feels to just stop thinking entirely. You wake up next to me, finding yourself gazing into my eyes. And by the time the words reach your ears, you are already sinking deeper. Days pass with you drifting so easily under my hypnotic spell. When necessity parts us, for even a moment, lucidity begins to return.

And you find yourself desperate to get back to my side. Eager to fall down at my feet. To hear me speak again so that you can go back to being your best self.

More structured inductions still occur of course. But they take you to a place of such profound surrender, that trying to reflect on them is like staring into an abyss. Hypnotized has become a part of who you are when you are with me. And it is the part that feels the most authentic.

So if you find yourself getting lost in some conversation we share, know that it's perfectly alright. Everything is happening exactly as we want it to. You can let my words wrap up your thoughts and feel your conscious mind fading away. You don't need to think for yourself when I'm here to think for you. And you are getting used to the feeling of always being entranced by me. Learning to love it. Learning to crave it.

You are learning to always be under my spell.

[atangledfate]

The blue hedgehog gave Surge a sideways glance as he didn't forget about that. It was just that--- so much had happened to him that not even Eggman knew it all. Starline just pumped her full of common info, and assumptions. He didn't know about his adventures in the story books, or about his godling father. He certainly didn't know what happened when he, shadow and silver defeated Solarius. His life might be known, but he was more then a bunch of text in a book.

" ... Then you know i'm good for my word... that's enough right? Heck i'm not even askin' for you to like me. I was happy enough that you and the kiddo were getting a chance to do your own thing... "

he sighed and placed his hands on his hips looking up at the GUN Ship.

" This whole thing sucks... I really wish you two had more time--- And i think we both would like a long talk with that general guy. But i've faced my share of tyrants, hacks, and evil overlords. That guy gives me the willies... both of them do... and that's not easy to do "

============================================

The General remained Stoic as the princess simply iterated what they both already knew. Jewel's tactic was sound, but it was predictable and that alone spoke to Jewels lack of experience. She may have been a keen eyed business woman. But she wasn't a soldier, or a warrior and that was something Blaze and himself shared in common.

" I could have, but i'd honestly I'd like to resolve this in a timely manner. It does none of us any good to remain in this stalemate any longer then we must. Despite what you may think i want what is best for my World... "

He simply motioned with his hand in a dismissive manner

" Which is exactly the problem isn't it? How can we put our fate in the hands of someone so chaotic and undisciplined. I'm sure we'd agree on much more then we disagree on if things were different... as for The President... I hope he can do the things he claims but, he's as of yet untested... "

His one good eye turned to Odessa and acknowledged her without directly speaking to her. He seemed to assess her but his face was like stone and impossible to tell if he was concerned or if he found her threat to be just another annoyance.

" My men are all disciplined... they won't act unless ordered to. you can relax, if i wanted to cause you harm... we wouldn't be having this conversation and you must know that. As for your princess getting hurt--- If a foreign dignitary enters foreign lands uninvited ... i can't be held responsible for any ill that befalls them. In truth your presence could be seen as an act of War... be glad we make an exception for the aid you provided the resistance during the Phantom War "

He sighed to the Princesses desire and his eye shifted away as if he found this argument rather tedious. He understood what she wanted but until Thawn, gave him the go ahead his hands were actually tied. He wanted to explain that but he had a feeling she'd fight him every step of the way. So it was a good thing, that jewel came in almost as if on que. Her wings buzzing as she came into the room and interrupted the conversation.

" President Thawn and i came to an agreement... The blackade is to be opened to essential personnel and, we can begin moving the injured and, get our medical staff back on base! i'm sure the general will get these orders momentarily! "

" Indeed, i was just given a folder with new orders... congradulations Miss Jewel... I look forward to working with you in the future---in less stressful circumstances... Princess it was ... interesting, i hope this doesn't jade you to future talks "

"I'm just going to assume you completely forgot the fact that Starline has pumped my head with literally everything about you. I just try to ignore it myself if I'm being honest." Surge seriously hated how much she knew about Sonic to the point where if she tried she could guess what he was going to say next. The tenrec mostly pushed all the information down so it didn't flood her head all the time. It surprisingly easier with her memories back.

"Yeah, and I also know ya ain't a big fan of keep secrets with those you're close too which is why I know it's a big ask to keep it to yourself." Surge was sure Tails could keep it to himself along with a few other of Sonic's friend's, though she didn't want to take any chances along with another reason.

"I'd like to have a personal fucking chat with whoever is in the carrier ship over there. Sounds like a real asshole who thinks G.U.N needs to be up everyone's ass and have control of everything if their able." Surge heard a bit about this Lupus guy and he sounded like a fucking dick. The tenrec wouldn't mind giving him a kick in the ass. She's being arrested anyway so what's another charge, right?

===========================================================

"I believe you're overstepping your authority general. I have no doubt you could've stopped Director Jewel's call, but I wouldn't be surprised if the President order you not to do so. I have dealt with men like you, those who think they hold the cards yet you merely play with the hand you're given." Blaze wasn't going to be pushed around by Lupus, and had no doubt with the President getting involved he was no longer the ring leader of this blockade. The feline wouldn't be afraid to point that out. "Sonic and Surge are their own people. Even if I requested they remain here they wouldn't have." The princess was sure they'd ignore that request in a heartbeat.

"And if any of your men decided to get trigger happy you can rest assured I will personally join the fray," an armored solider said as she entered the room and walk's over to the console. She took off her helmet to look him square in his good eye. "More importantly if Princess Blaze were to be harmed rest assured you shall have the entirety of the Sol Empire crashing down on G.U.N and it won't be a fight." The lemur glare showed she wasn't joking in the slightest and had more than enough resolve.

"Though are main aim is to prevent such a thing. Odessa is just strongly spoken with her words." Blaze wasn't surprised her Odessa refused to remain silent at such a threat despite the telepathic order as one of her main duties was to protect the royal family so any threat no matter how big or small would be taken seriously. "My main goal right now is to discuss how to move everyone out without stepping on any toes. I know we haven't heard the outcome, though it should be a given we'd get to leave. So, I believe funneling them out through the main entrance is the best. Do you agree?"

[celticcrossanon]

BRF Reading - 9th of May, 2025

This is speculation only

Cards Drawn on the 9th of May, 2025

Question: What is Prince William planning to do about the Harkles (when he has the power to do so)?

Note: I drew four cards for this reading, one for each area of website, HRH, Prince/Princess, and Duke/Duchess, and then there are two cards as a coda at the end.

Edited: I had the King of Wands the wrong way around in the image! He is properly reversed now. :)

Interpretation: Prince William plans to remove anything that could link Harry (and hence Meghan) to the working royals and 'The Firm'.

Underlying Energy: The Page of Swords in reverse

Pages are communication, messages. In reverse they are usually bad news. Swords relates to thoughts, communication, legal issues, medical issues, and the internet (Swords is the suit of Air and the Internet is very much an Air concept). As the underlying energy this tells me that what Prince William does to Harry will be seen as bad news, and it will be communicated everywhere by the Internet, so Harry and Meghan won't be able to hide from it or suborn it into their narrative. The news will be out there: this is what we have done and this is what it means.

Swords are sharp, so this will definitely be a cutting out of some sort. It will be cold and logical, and not swayed by emotion (Swords are all about logical thought).

The figure on the card is one of the Greek Gods of wind, and the wind reaches everywhere, so everyone will know about this.

The image that is coming to my mind is when the Royal House of Sweden rearranged their titles, or when the Danish Royal House removed titles from all but the direct line. It's going to be a rearrangement that is similar to those, I think - something that affects the entire royal family, so Harry and Meghan can't play the victim card.

So with that general energy behind the cards, let's look at the specifics.

Card One: The Website: 3 of Cups in reverse

The Three of Cups is a card of celebration, friendship, group events, community. In the reverse, it is not being part of the community, being cut out of the group, scandal, scandal, gossip, and isolation.

With respect to the website, this card says that It will be made very clear that Harry (and Meghan, as his wife) are not part of the BRF (the group/community), they are not friends with the BRF, they have no part in the BRF celebrations or group events. They are out. This could be done by taking them off the website, or by moving them to a separate page for people who left their jobs as working royals (they could put Prince Andrew on this page as well). However it is done, it will be made crystal clear that Harry and his wife are no longer part of the BRF.

The image on this card shows a wedding, and a wedding in reverse is a break up of a relationship, a divorce. I have two thoughts on this: First, being excluded like this may be the push that Harry needs and he will divorce Meghan in an attempt to get back in with the BRF (which in my opinion will not work - they may give him a place to live in exile but he will never be a working royal again), or second, that there will be some sort of scandal that comes out during their divorce that means they have to be taken off the website, no matter who the monarch is at that time (Charles or William).

Card Two: The HRH styles: Four of Swords

Note: Harry gets the HRH style because of his birth. Meghan gets it because she is married to Harry. Whatever happens to Harry will determine how Meghan can use the style. If he loses it, so does she. By Letters Patent that already exist, if they divorce, Meghan loses the HRH style. see https://www.tumblr.com/letterspatentbrf/181920603168/letters-patent-for-the-use-of-hrh-for-former-wives?source=share

The Four of Swords is a death card. Whatever happens to the HRH style, it is going to e seen as a death, a loss, by Harry and Meghan.

As well as being a death card, the Four of Swords is a card about retiring from the world to rest/recuperate/lick your wounds after a defeat. The HRH styles are supposed to be retired at the moment, but Harry and Meghan keep dragging them put and using them. Either the retirement of the styles will be strictly enforced or they will be removed forever. Either alternative fits the meaning of this card.

If Prince William is going for a 'reform the whole family' approach, instead of a 'single out Harry (and hence Meghan) approach, then whatever he does to Harry will eventually fall on Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis as they are not the heir to the throne. I can see Prince William wanted to annihilate Harry but at the same time not wanting to do that to his children, who have done nothing wrong. It's a question of being just and being fair, which are very much Sword suit issues. Prince William will also be concerned with the effects on family members who have served faithfully but who are now retired or close to being retired (for example The Duke and Duchess of Kent, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester).

The answer might be, instead of removing the HRH from everyone who is not a direct heir, to remove the use of it from everyone who is not a working royal and strictly enforce this somehow, so if people decide to become working royals (like Lady Louise) then they are HRH, if they are not working royals then they are not HRH. I don't know if that is what is going to happen, or whether the HRH will be taken from everyone except the heirs, or whether something else will be done. It will definitely be something that Harry and Meghan see as a death, but it may be a strictly enforced retirement rather than a complete removal.

Card Three: The Prince/Princess titles: The Ace of Pentacles

Note: Harry is the one who bears the Prince style because of his birth. Meghan can be called Princess Henry or Princess Harry because she is his wife. Whatever happens to Harry's title will be reflected in what title Meghan can use.

The Ace of Pentacles is about new beginnings - new financial opportunities, mew material things, and a new social status. It is a card of stability and security.

This card tells me that Harry (and hence Meghan) is going to get either a new title or a changed status to go with his old title, and as per the underlying energy he and Meghan are not going to be happy about this. This change will bring security and stability to the BRF and it is not going to be changed back any time soon. It will be a permanent change, no matter how many temper tantrums Harry throws.

As to how this could be implemented, the most obvious way is to follow the Scandinavian example and have the direct heirs to the throne called Crown Prince or Crown Princess, and all other family members are simply Prince or Princess. That makes it quite clear who is going to be the monarch one day and who is not.

Alternatively, the title of Prince/Princess could be used by working royals and removed from non working royals, like how Lady Louise is entitled to be HRH Princess Louise but has chosen to continue with being Lady Louise, the title her parent s chose for her at her birth.

It could also be something entirely different.

Whatever route Prince William takes, there will be a change in the status of Harry (and thence Meghan), and given the underlying energy it will not be a good change.

Card Four: The Duke/Duchess of Sussex titles: King of Wands in reverse

Note: Harry is the one who was created The Duke of Sussex. Meghan gets to use the courtesy title of The Duchess of Sussex because she is his wife. Currently, if the divorce, Meghan can use the title Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, but there is nothing stopping the monarch from issuing a Letters Patent to change this.

The King of Wands is a fair sign person, especially a Leo. It is in the reverse, so this person is going to be reduced or overshadowed in some way, and given that this card is about the Duke/Duchess title, this means that someone will lose that title.

The energy I am getting from this card is Meghan. I think that Meghan is going to be stripped of the Duchess of Sussex title and it will be a huge blow to her ego. Whether this is because Harry loses his Duke of Sussex title or whether it is because they divorce, I don't know, although I am inclining slightly towards divorce. What I am getting from this card is a very upset Meghan raging about the loss of her status (Duchess title), so whatever happens with Harry, Meghan will be gone.

In the general sense, the King of Wands is a charismatic leader. In the reverse, that is taken away, and they become either a domineering bully and/or powerless to do anything. If Harry does lose his Duke of Sussex title, then I can see him becoming even more of a bully in his personal life while losing all the power that the title currently gives him in business deals. However, this is a minor energy, the main energy of this card - 99% - is a furious Meghan raging at the blow to her ego from the loss of her Duchess title.

Cards Five and Six: Coda: Hermit in reverse, Knight of Pentacles in reverse

These two cards show the end result of Prince William's actions. The both represent Harry - the Hermit is the major arcana card for Virgo and the Knight of Pentacles is the minor arcana card for Virgo, and Harry is a sun sign Virgo - and they are both in reverse. This tells me, very clearly, twice over, that in both his public life (Major Arcana) and his private life (Minor Arcana) Harry is going to be reduced, weakened, overshadowed, made powerless etc (cards in reverse). Whatever Prince William does to him is going to be both thorough and effective. Harry may react by being both lazy and grabbing at all the dodgy get-rich-quick schemes he can find (Knight of Pentacles in reverse) and/or by telling everyone how lonely he is, lashing out at the BRF in a fit of public rejection, or even having a complete (woo-woo drug fuelled) mental breakdown (Hermit in reverse), but he will be reduced in status and there will be no change from that. Prince William is not going to coddle him and he is not going to back down on this matter,

Conclusion:

It looks like Prince William will remove or demote Harry and Meghan on the website, remove their HRH or strictly enforce its non use, reduce their status around the Prince title, and remove the Duchess title from Meghan somehow (and possibly Harry as well, I don't know about him as Meghan's energy dominated this card). Whatever he does will leave Harry (and hence Meghan) permanently reduced in status. It will be made clear that these are not members of the BRF. That message - reduced status, not part of 'The Firm' - will be spread far and wide over the internet so Harry and Meghan can not refute it in any way, although of course they will try to twist things to claim their status back, which will not work.

[vindictes]

LORE POST

rocket's influence in the kanto and johto regions

— firstly, one of their biggest sources of income; GAMBLING. almost every gambling spot and game corner in the kanto-johto area is owned by rocket. on the side, they have the night clubs, fancy private clubs and bars that work alongside them, a whole range from dingy little bars to huge, boisterous casinos. the game corner price pokémon are all derived from their massive industry of breeding rare mons for profit, namely dratinis and porygons. ever wonder how they can have an endless supply? that's how.

— local businesses. many bigger local business chains are owned by rocket behind the scenes. often, none of the employees working in said places have any idea of who they are actually working for. they hide behind layers and layers of fake CEO's, leaving next to no trace to be found.

— a legal team to keep them out of hot water. some cities police forces are so deeply intertwined with rocket that anyone getting caught 'in act' is let go on scene. some do better, though, and those are places they knowingly avoid. to a degree, they stay in their lane, minimizing unnecessary risks.

— several infiltrations within the local politicians to subtly advance their own goals.

— office buildings. many completely regular looking office buildings are rocket bases. you wouldn't be able to tell even if you happened to wander into one. they keep it neatly under wraps. the HQ is one of these, and the location is secret, of course, and you have to be a certain rank and trust level to even be allowed into the 'main' HQ, as they have several decoy ones in place.

— underground rare pokémon trade. they have lots and lots of wealthy clients all around the world who travel to the kanto-johto area to take part in their auctions. shiny pokémon, rare pokémon, pseudo legendaries, anything you can imagine, all auctioned off at a good price.

— slowpoke tail trade. they have been looking more into manufacturing believable fake versions of them, as it's much cheaper and easier to produce than the real things. still, certain upper class clients (namely in kalosian restaurants) will always get the best, freshest stuff to maintain good relations.

— weapon and other supplies trade and manufacturing. they have their own weapon and pokéball experts on duty, designing and making supplies for them.

— they offer generous loans to selected clients, definitely too-good-to-be-true level. just don't look too closely at the fine print on the paper. they offer your standard 'get-rid-of-someone-quickly' services as well. for a good price, of course.

— most important thing is that they are subtle. so subtle that many regular citizens think that they are no longer in operation despite of how many things they silently infiltrate. giovanni was never caught or even suspected as the leader, and the radio tower was brought into such a ruin during the takeover that there was no CCTV retrieved of the executives either. you won't be robbed by a random grunt goon on the street going 'gimme ur pokemon' anymore. it's like they aren't even there. until you're a wealthy client in need of a generous favor, of course. then you'll find them.

[sysig]

Enecomimi Banzaiiii (Patreon)

[just-s0me-stranger]

I'd also argue that killing Cazador shouldn't be about making him suffer either

So much as it's because, for all their wealth, power, & influence, True Vampires are incapable of any real happiness

Whether that's from the nature of their True Vampirism or from having been tortured as spawns themselves, or both even, they're also suffering

Which wouldn't in itself warrant what I'm about to say next

But, because True Vampires tend to get off on hurting those beneath them, be they spawn or mortals

Not accounting for blood drinking imo

As far as I'm concerned, I can't really fault a vampire, spawn or otherwise, for needing blood anymore than I can fault a lion for needing meat

That being said

I can't help but come to the conclusion that the kindest thing you can do for a True Vampire, & for the people they're terrorising, is to eliminate them

Not a nice conclusion to come to, admittedly

But, the fact is, they won't stop hurting people until they are stopped

Sometimes, the world is made a better place when certain people (especially dictators & tyrants) are no longer in it

Unfortunately, I played Baldur's Gate late, so I often find myself reflecting on concepts that have probably already been discussed a million times. Bear with me — I need to vent these thoughts somehow.

So... Every now and then, while reading various posts around the web, I find myself wondering what those unfortunate 7,006 souls ever did to be so quickly dismissed and condemned. Seriously. I’m stunned by how easily people judge and by the lack of moral and objective analysis. In the game, of course, everything goes — I myself sent them all to hell without much hesitation in one of my runs. They're not real people and the point is to have fun.

But when you stop and analyze the situation from the outside — not as players inside a videogame, but as people with empathy, morals, and common sense who are engaging with a narrative — I genuinely struggle to understand how this act can be seen as justifiable. Among all those souls used in the ascension ritual, the only one that truly deserves to burn in hell is Cazador. The others? Unlucky, foolish, maybe in love. Astarion says it himself: they were people who let their guard down and fell for his sweet words.

"Every one who ever trusted me enough to let down their guard... innocents, idiots, and the unluky."

Among them, there’s surely some piece of shit who hurt Astarion, who abused him, and maybe does deserve to rot in hell alongside Cazador. But others were just drunks, not entirely in control of their decisions. Were some of them whoremongers? Sure — but that’s not a crime. They were seduced, lured in, encouraged — they didn’t drag Astarion into an alley to use him. It was Cazador who exploited and raped him, forcing him into that role.

Were some of them jerks, criminals? Sure. But Astarion himself isn’t a saint — that doesn’t mean he’s more worthy of mercy than they are. He’s not inherently more deserving of survival than his brothers and sisters, for instance. And I say this as someone who loves Astarion. On top of that, these poor bastards have been imprisoned for centuries, starving, neglected, stripped of the most basic decency. Astarion himself points it out.

If you believe Astarion has paid for his past sins by enduring Cazador’s abuse (and on this point I fully agree), then that same logic must apply to them. A little consistency, for God’s sake. Yes, they’re starved vampire spawn — but they’re also capable of self-control. And more importantly, they want to live, just like Astarion. In fact, I would go even further: they are Astarion. They represent the mirror in which he sees himself — and what he sees is so unbearable that he wants to erase them entirely. Just as he would erase that part of himself he considers pathetic and miserable. When in reality, it’s not pathetic at all — it’s the strong part, the part that survived the 200 years under Cazador.

"[...]I don't want to be like them... They are patethic, horrible... [...] That weakness in me is dead. It's dead! I have a higher purpose."

Moreover, it’s made very clear in the epilogue that they’re not mindless bloodthirsty monsters without reason or restraint. If they were, it’d be easy for everyone — for the player, for Astarion, and for the rest of the companions — to sacrifice them all. There wouldn’t be a moral dilemma. There wouldn’t be consequences. No tension in the plot, I might add. It would be completely flat.

But there are consequences. All the companions react accordingly. They condemn the act. They realize Astarion has become a monster. Because the ascension isn’t a walk in the woods with birds chirping — it’s a vile act, a deeply repugnant devil’s bargain, as Raphael himself says. It condemns a multitude of innocent souls to eternal suffering, after being deceived by Astarion (just like the player, who’s drawn in by his charm and simple plan), and after already enduring unspeakable pain under Cazador.

It’s monstrous.

"[...] It's a rather grim tale, even for my tastes. [...] The contract states that Cazador will be granted knowledge of an infernal ritual so vile it has never been performed. [...] Your soul will set off a very weave of death bringing Cazador his twisted life."

A diabolical act that will bring forth something twisted and corrupted, a sick imitation of life.

Somewhere I even read: “The companions suddenly treat AA like he’s evil incarnate when he hasn’t done anything wrong yet!” Seriously?! Honestly, it sounds less like we’re talking about victims and more like parasites. And besides, I don’t even see why these vampire spawn should be considered more dangerous or less deserving than the ones AA would go on to create. So no, you’re not doing the world a favor by eliminating them.

The morally right and more humane choice is to set them free.

Then, if someone in the game wants to kill them because they’re playing an evil character, prefer the ascended vampire, or whatever else — fine by me. Far be it from me to ruin anyone’s fun.

But to justify the act in general, outside the game? Mmmh…

The fact that people love Astarion and that he has suffered — and no one is denying that — at the hands of Cazador, doesn’t automatically give him the right to do whatever he wants or to be excused and treated like a righteous man because of it, especially when he acts like a monster beyond redemption (the damn ritual). Otherwise, why not grant the same satisfaction to Cazador himself? He also suffered at the hands of Vellioth, poor thing. And he suffers deeply because of his condition as an undead, even though he stands above his vampire spawn and possesses everything Astarion believes to be important—power, wealth, status.

"These deathless dreams hold memories of a mortal life once-forgotten. Of the boy I was, the man i became, the monster that will not end. I sleep, but cannot rest. I live, but cannot die. I'm eternal, and I grieve."

Astarion is just one of the many other spawn meant to be sacrificed, identical to the others in every way. The only difference is that we happen to get the chance to know him, that’s all. And most importantly, in what way, during the act itself (the performance of the ritual), is Astarion any different from Cazador? In none. He literally takes his place. So if Cazador is the evil one—the bastard, the monster who must die and be punished—then in that moment, Astarion becomes one too. And it’s precisely by refusing the ritual that Astarion sets himself apart and becomes morally deserving of something—respect and admiration, to begin with—better than the others, better than Cazador. Otherwise, he’s just a thief who brutally steals his tormentor’s life’s work.

It’s not like I’m trying to overanalyze the concepts and the characters — which, for the record, are crystal clear to me and thoroughly explained within the game itself — it’s just that I genuinely can’t understand how mass murder or condemning innocent souls to hell can be seen as just or acceptable outside the context of the game.

[ameliiorate]

"Well, I don't know about that. I would think that Eevee has been granted the same privilege." And perhaps it's out of place to compare herself to Scout's wife, but she tries to feign being humble in an attempt to mask how thrilling it is that Fin continues to acknowledge her in such a meaningful way. Though Mari has been around longer, she hadn't stuck around, but she can continue to support Fin in their career. She tries not to dwell too much on how much more their relationship could have progressed by now if she hadn't let her fear win. "But I won't turn down such a lucrative offer. I already felt bad for missing your Vegas shows!"

Though there is far more that she feels bad about, Mari doesn't dwell on such things when so much good is happening in the moment. She could continue punishing herself for her actions another day. Tonight, she will can let up and be indulgent. She doesn't want anything to squash the happiness radiating from Fin. "Well, you both have always had that excitable dog energy. Which is not a bad thing."

If anything, it's that very energy that had attracted Mari to Fin to begin with. There is something infectious and exuberant that vibrates from their entire being that she had been drawn to, like a moth clinging to the light. And that is what they had been to her: the light, the love, of her life. As they sway, she drinks up the closeness, the warm that radiates from Finley so freely, and the time elapses far too quickly. She could have continued dancing with them forever. With a matching smile, she tucks her bangs behind her ear. "Very ready!"

The dancing may be over, and she wants to remain close, looping her arm through Fin's. "Should we go sit down first? Do you think the couple will make speeches first, or do we want to be first in line?" She's not in any rush, because the more that they do, the closer they get to the night's end.

Finley wasn't sure if it was generosity or rather their selfish hope to always see Mari's face in the crowd whenever they played. While the crowds were getting bigger, they couldn't help but look for her in the sea of people. It had been this way for so long Fin was certain they would always be looking for her. It wasn't just in crowds at shows, Fin was always looking for Mari in other people. Always hoping to find anybody who could light even a fraction of the fire in them that she did. "I think if anybody deserves the fan for life privileges its you."

A chuckle escapes their lips because it was certainly the dynamic between all their friendships. Mari and Sadie had some stories growing up that could rival those of the mischief Scout and Fin got themselves into. "You got a point there. Sometimes I think Scout and I share a singular brain cell."

The moment the two of them find themselves finding an easy rhythm on the dance floor, Finley finds themself wishing it was just as easy to fall into tandem in their personal lives. "You're right. There's actually a severe lack of head banging happening today actually," they laugh. As Mari's fingers gently graze their hair they instantly relax, as a soft sigh escapes their lips involuntarily. It was a simple sensation they missed so greatly: Mari's hands running through their hair, her hand casually on their chest while they talked, fingers tangling without a second thought. Coming from anybody else it felt like just cheap imitations.

One song fades into the next and before Fin realizes it been the better part of an hour as they do not want to even entertain letting Mari out from an arm's distance. Then the music pauses to announce the couple are going to cut their wedding cake. "Ready to refuel?" They grin.

[emiliosandozsequence]

have Barely read this week bc of all the fucking doctor's appointments i've had to go to rip

[chaddicus]

see the longer I play with my understanding of my transmasc experience and dysphoria, the more I grapple with the conflict between mocking fragile masculinity for refusing to allow the use of 'feminine' things vs knowing more and more keenly how much dysphoria I would and do get whenever someone associates something I do or use or wear with femininity. and no amount of people insisting that using "feminine" things doesn't invalidate someone's gender, man or otherwise, seems to have any impact on that dysphoria

we do need to untangle cultural perceptions of masculine vs feminine and respect for a person's gender, manhood in particular in this discussion, but I almost feel like knowing that means it's my responsibility to refuse to engage with those ideas for my own gender — and the problem is that knowing this is not the common understanding means knowing that other people *will* associate my use of feminine things as some sort of contradiction with any masculinity I may wish to express or identify with, and no amount of understanding the concepts and holding the principles can erase the revulsion and pain and fear I feel at the thought of people associating me with some concept of womanhood that I adamantly *do not experience or identify with.* fuck.

[demarogue]

Gettin' Through the Holidays Mental Health Tricks

If y'all are anything like me, this time of year is triggering AF. Here are some small, very easy grounding exercises that I was taught by my therapist, basically in order of how much I like them for this rage-inducing season. You make like them in a different order, depending on your rage-to-despair ratio.

Push a wall: literally go up to a wall and try to push it over. Really try. I promise you won't push it over, but give it your best shot. Try to hold it as long as you can, and then take a breather and assess whether you need to repeat. Why it works: This is a quick, physical expulsion of the fight-or-flight feeling. It's a bit like punching a wall, but without the potential to hurt yourself/look scary/damage things. You can even do it in front of people and say you're stretching, they'll never know (unless the wall actually falls down, but this will not happen, I assure you).

Shake like a dog: Animals shake to release stress, and you are also an animal. Setting aside time to just shake it out, as vigorously as you can, arms and legs, face, stick your tongue out, pretend you're shaking like a wet dog. You can dance instead, if that feels better, and you can do this to music, but basically the more unhinged you can be, the better. If you are in a place you can scream, scream too! Why it works: like the above, this is a release of pent-up stress and anxiety. Especially if your rage-to-woe ratio is high, some kind of physical exertion is often the best way to burn through the cortisol and adrenaline you're building up.

Bilateral Tapping: Cross your arms over your chest so that your fingertips are at your shoulders, and slowly tap, one hand at a time, back and forth, for about a minute. Breathe slowly. Why it works: This is weird as hell, but because this engages both sides of your brain, it helps override the activity of the amygdala, which is the part of your brain that Makes The Fear. If you're being literally triggered in a situation, i.e. you're having a trauma response, or reliving some family trauma, this is a good one.

Box Breathing: From a comfortable position (can really be seated, laying down or standing), inhale slowly for a count of 4, hold for a count of 4, exhale for a count of 4, hold for a count of 4, then repeat. You can do it for shorter counts or longer counts, but if you vary the counts make sure the exhale is longer than the inhale. You can close your eyes or leave them open. Why it works: This exercise helps you move from a sympathetic (activated) nervous system response to a parasympathetic (balanced) response. I do this one every day, and it's a good gateway to meditation. Especially helpful in anxious or tense situations, but I find if I'm very triggered I need one of the other ones first, or it can make anxiety worse. Breathwork is amazing but not usually as a first exercise if you're very activated, or have been activated a long time.

Ice: Lots of ways to do this one – hands in cold water for 30 seconds, ice pack on the back of your neck, dip your entire face into a bowl of ice water (this one's the most effective). Why it works: I kinda think this is hilarious, but this activates your mammalian dive reflex. It immediately slows your heart-rate, so if you are feeling your blood pressure and heart rate rising, this one is very good. The only reason this one's at the bottom of my list is because I hate being cold.

I wish you all a very get-through-the-holidays-without-hurting-yourself. Take time alone if you need it.

[ernestofoulworth]

been caught in one of those terrible "not good enough" spirals about my writing lately

[bizarrelovetriangel]

restless nights.

you get into an argument and they become restless without you by their side.

angst with comfort. apologies for any ooc moments and stubborn mc/reader.

sylus

"I'm not taking you with me."

His words left no room for anymore rebuttals. No matter how persistent you got and what reasoning you gave, Sylus continues to reject your request to join him for the upcoming Onychinus mission.

He's never had a problem with you tagging along before, so why now? You've learned from Luke and Kieran that Sylus will be dealing with one of the most dangerous men they'd ever met, so you wanted to support him. When you brought the topic up to him, all he said was that the setting will be too much for you.

You reassured him that you can handle anything, being a hunter who's familiar with the messiest, most vile types of environment, but regardless of your reasonings, he fully intends to go to this mission alone.

"Okay."

The moment he watched you calmly closed the door on your way out of the room, Sylus knew he fucked up.

You avoided him all afternoon, and it didn't take long for loneliness to strike him hard.

He hated the silence.

Knowing you're under the same roof and yet you're deliberately ignoring him... he'd much rather have you screaming at him.

Sylus remained at his working station to continue modifying a weapon that he'd recently purchased; however, his distracted state prevented him from making progress.

The face you made before walking away from him keeps haunting him.

The disappointment in your eyes made his chest unbearably tight.

He tried to push the uncomfortable feeling away, telling himself that his response to you is for the best, but it didn't work at all.

It was difficult to concentrate on anything else.

He wondered what you were up to.

What if you decide to leave because you can't stand to be near him?

Just imagining you rush out of the house while angry caused Sylus' hands to become unsteady and accidentally crossed some wires that weren't supposed to touch.

And so, the weapon sparked and caught on fire.

"...great."

He decided to move on to boxing, hoping to release some anger — not at you, but for his enemies that he'll be seeing for the upcoming mission. If they weren't so... filthy and gruesome, he wouldn't have to worry about keeping you away from them.

After two minutes of hitting the punching bag, Sylus' eyes started to repeatedly glance towards the entrance of the gym, checking to see if a certain someone would walk in for their weekly boxing lessons.

Your boxing gloves are in the usual place, untouched. He recalled the day when you two bought it while shopping: you were so excited about using it, you woke him up early just so you could start boxing while wearing them.

But now, you won't even step in the gym because he made you upset.

Suddenly, Sylus was no longer in the mood to box.

You didn't join him for dinner.

He wasn't surprised, though he felt another pang at his chest when he sat down on the empty dinning table.

He learned from Luke and Kieran that you had already eaten a little earlier while ranting to Mephisto, who was your only companion for supper.

The crow gave him a questioning look as he flew by and parched on the empty chair next to him, where you usually sit.

"I know. I'm working on it."

Sylus went to his bedroom, hoping that you don't run away and that you hear him out.

But when he opened the door, a cold breeze hit him along with a lonely feeling. The room is empty, and you're nowhere to be found.

He knew you're still somewhere in the house; otherwise, Mephisto would've told him already that you'd left. You staying means he's not totally screwed — not yet, at least.

The only other place he thought to check is the room where you used to sleep in, before your relationship became official.

And sure enough, after calming down his nervous, hitched breath, Sylus knocked on the door.

No response, but the room is unlocked.

He dared to take a peak inside and immediately softened at the sight of you sleeping on the bed. His feet acted before his mind and walked up towards your side.

He sat down on the mattress and his eyes slowly traced the ravishing features of your face that he missed, despite the argument being only just several hours ago.

He yearned to touch you, just for a second, to feel your warmth and softness. His right hand carefully reached towards your face, knuckles aiming to brush against your cheek.

But then, you opened your eyes.

Sylus froze for a moment, waiting for you to tell him to leave and stay away from him, but instead, you just blinked at him with curiosity and a hint of amusement.

"What are you doing?"

"...caught me redhanded." he chuckles. "I was looking at you. Because you wouldn't let me do it while you were awake. Sorry to disturb your peaceful sleep."

You watched his hand that was about to touch your face slowly retract, and you wanted to grab it and embrace it.

"...who said I was sleeping peacefully?"

Sylus looks at you with confusion.

"It's hard for me to sleep whenever we have arguments." you murmured, sitting up slowly so you can look at him properly. "I wanted to see you, but..."

You were sulking all afternoon.

You grew tired of arguing with him and thought you'd eventually find the right words to tell him later on, once you've calmed down.

"Me too." Sylus slowly reached for your hand, almost afraid that you'd pull away, though he relaxed once you intertwined your fingers with his. "Let me tell you why I'm against you accompanying me for this mission."

He told you about the shady people he'll be visiting. They are nasty criminals who have done unforgivable things to people, and everything about them is just disgusting — physically and figuratively.

As much as he wanted your company and assistance, Sylus doesn't want them setting their filthy eyes on you. He doesn't want them to know about your existence at all.

Mostly, he doesn't want to waste your time and energy on people like them. He knows you're strong enough to be by his side and help him take them down, just as you have done a few times before, but he'd much rather keep you away from their dirty hands.

"I understand now." You tightened your grip on his hand. "And still.... I want to go with you."

Though his brows furrowed as a silent reply, he stayed quiet and allowed you to fully let out everything you want to say.

"I appreciate your concern for me, truly. But ever since the twins told me about them, that they're dangerous and full of dirty tricks, I can't help but worry.

You're strong and you definitely don't need me, but still... I asked to go with you because I want to support you, just like how you sometimes help me out with my missions."

Sylus was met with the familiar look of persistence and determination in your eyes and realized he was never going to win this argument.

You've always been stubborn.

But that's just one of the reasons why he's so infauted with you.

You win.

"I should have known better than to try to leave you out of something like this." he sighs in defeat, shaking his head and pinching the bridge of his nose.

You grinned at his tone. "It'll be fine. And fun — maybe. If not, then I'll suffer with you."

He clicked his tongue and poked your forehead. "Fine. But before we go, you have to prove to me that you're capable of fighting them."

"Hmm? Prove to you, how?"

"You'll have to join me in the boxing ring tomorrow, kitten."

You gasped and your eyes lit up. "My gloves! I've abandoned them! Let's go boxing right now!"

"...weren't you just about to sleep?"

"No way! I wanna hit something now! Come on!"

Sylus allowed himself to be dragged out of the room and brought back to the gym, where the boxing ring awaits.

Unlike earlier, the gym appears to be warmer and much more lively.

At last, Sylus can breathe easily.

zayne

Getting scolded by your lover was not how you were expecting your trip to the hospital to go.

He never raised his voice, but the coldness in his tone was what struck you in the chest.

He reprimanded you for being too reckless and careless at work, stating that you need to pay more attention to your surroundings and not throw yourself in danger at any chance you get.

Maybe you caught him in a bad mood, or maybe he was fed up with all the times that he has to see you with injuries. Either way, you didn't feel like being around him for a while.

Later that night, you fell asleep earlier than usual and missed a call from Zayne. You knew you probably should've called him back once you woke up in the morning, but the memory of him scolding you like a child made you throw your phone aside and momentarily avoid him.

Zayne is wide awake and his eyes are glued to the screen of his phone.

For once, he doesn't have work to keep him up late at night. Instead, you're the reason why he's unable to sleep.

You haven't been returning his texts and calls.

He knew you're upset because of what he did at the hospital. He shouldn't have spoken to you like that. You were already hurt. The last thing you needed was for him to give you a lecture over something you don't have much control over.

Zayne wanted to apologize to you.

He considered going to your apartment so he can properly give his sincere apology, but with the way you've been deflecting his attempts to communicate, he figured you wanted some space from him.

It's understandable that you'd feel that way, but still, Zayne can't ignore the aching in his chest. The other side of the bed feels colder than usual, and the silence of his house was uncomfortable.

You should've been next to him, resting your head on his chest while showing him funny memes and videos of cats after playing silly games on your phone, then you'd randomly come across an interesting article that would be your discussion until the two of you fall asleep.

This time, all he can do is keep checking his phone, just in case you decide to text or call him, and he'd answer in a heartbeat.

He wanted to hear your voice just so knows that everything is going to be okay, and that he doesn't need to worry about the possibility of losing you. Unfortunately, he wasn't granted that wish.

He eventually fell asleep with his phone on hand resting on the empty side of the bed.

Zayne was right.

You really are careless.

Showing up at the hospital twice in a week, just two days after your previous visit, is embarrassing at this point. You admit that your mind wasn't as awake and alert as it should've been, and so you've landed yourself another injury while fighting a Wanderer.

You did your best to hide from Zayne.

In fact, you tried going to a different hospital but Tara dropped you off here and fled instantly, so you have no choice but to go in with your slightly injured shoulder.

It just so happens that Doctor Greyson was the one that treated you, as he was the only one currently available.

You thought you'd be able to leave without seeing Zayne at all, but Greyson was unaware of your current situation so he informed him that he just finished fixing you up and you should be free to leave now.

Zayne just finished a long surgery, but once Greyson passed such valuable information to him, he rushed to your assigned room.

He caught you just as you were about to step out.

"Ah!" You put a hand over your racing heart. "You scared me!"

"Sorry." Zayne paused for a moment. "May I ask you to join me in my office?"

Your stomach shifted anxiously. "Sure..." The walk to the location was filled with nothing but awkward silence, which hurt to think about because it's Zayne.

That's the man whom you love more than anything else.

The last thing you want with him is an uncomfortable silence.

At the very least, you were able to gather your courage to own up to your mistakes.

Once he closed the door...

"I'm sorry!"

Zayne was caught off-guard.

"What?"

"You're right. I've been careless lately." Your shoulders sagged as you accepted defeat. "Like my injury today could've been avoided if only I was a little more cautious. I really do need to work on it better. I'm sorry for ignoring your texts and calls. I know you're just looking out for me."

Zayne let out a breath of relief.

He failed to stop himself from pulling you into his arms, so tight that you let out a gasp, though you didn't complain so he didn't release you just yet.

He desperately needed to hold you.

He was afraid that you might not want to see him anymore because of the way he had spoken to you, but it seems he'd gotten a chance to correct himself.

"I'm sorry for talking to you so coldy." He backed away just a small distance so he could look you in the eyes, though his hands remained locked on your elbows. "There are much better ways to express my concerns for you. I won't make the same mistake again. But also..."

He took your left hand and kissed the back of it. "Please don't ever try to hide your injuries from me whenever you do get hurt."

"Ah...." you wondered how he found out you were trying to hide from him today. "Sorry. I won't."

Zayne smiled and kissed your forehead.

"I'll accept your apology, on one condition...."

"What?"

"You have to spend the night and the whole weekend with me now. To make up for the times when you weren't by my side."

caleb

"I did it to protect you."

"And now, the fleet has all the access to the information that I was supposed to get. But yes. I was so fortunate that The Colonel came to my rescue. Thanks."

Caleb sighs as you shut the door and locked yourself in your own room of his house in Safehaven.

It's true that he interfered with your mission and you failed to do what you were sent for, but the man you were interrogating was equipped with a weapon that could've left you permamently injured.

What was he supposed to do?

He wasn't going to just watch and wait for you to get hurt.

The man just happened to be a common enemy of the fleet and the hunters association, and it seems that you've crossed paths for a race on whoever could capture him first.

While you technically reached him first, Caleb was the one that took him away and had him in captive with the fleet.

He figured he could just find that man and get the information you need, though it seems your mission was time sensitive and you were supposed to report to the association by tonight.

While he feels bad about you failing to accomplish your mission, he doesn't regret barging in to stop the enemy from hurting you.

His priority has always been you and it will always be you.

Everything that he's ever done is to protect you, even if you're against it. That's why this isn't the first time you've fought.

Ever since you were younger, you'd sometimes get mad at him for doing something that was intended to keep you out of harm's way.

It's nothing new.

Still, no matter how many times it happens, Caleb will always hate the feeling of you being upset with him.

He especially cannot stand it when you pretend he doesn't exist. He'd rather you hit him as hard as you can than act as if you don't see him. Otherwise, what other purpose does he have, if not to provide for you and be by your side?

Caleb made dinner for two, but he's the only one in the dinning room, sitting across an empty chair. It's dead silent aside from the noise of the flying vehicles roaming around outside his house.

He already put food in your plate and filled you a glass of juice, just in case you give in to his attempt to lure you out with the delicious smell of tonight's meal.

Caleb took his time eating. He had sent you texts, with lots of stickers, telling you that dinner is ready and that you can come out of your room now, though not a single message had gotten a reply.

His eyes would constantly dart to your closed door, hoping that it would open and you'd stubbornly come out with a pout on your face, just like what you always do ever since you were little.

He wasn't so lucky tonight.

But that doesn't mean he'll let you starve. You can be mad at him, but at the very least, be angry with a full stomach.

Caleb picked up your plate and drink and set it down on the floor right outside your room.

"Pip-squeak." He knocked a couple of times. "It's fine if you don't want to see me. You don't have to forgive me, but please eat something before you sleep. I'll leave the food outside the door."

He paused for a moment, as an apology almost slipped out of his tongue, though he wants to do it properly when you're face-to-face, so he will wait for a better time.

"Goodnight."

Afterwards, Caleb took a long bath before going to bed. You two had plans to watch movies tonight after your mission, but that was definitely not going to happen now. He had no idea things would end like how it did, and now he's staring at a wall feeling empty.

Around midnight, you quietly stepped out of your room. You brought the dirty, empty dishes back in the kitchen so you can wash them and return them in the storage.

Five steps in the dark kitchen and you almost drop the fragile items on your hands.

There's something lurking in the shadows.

"Ah!"

Your right hand swung up to hit the figure that started to walk towards you, ready to hit them with the plate.

The object was caught easily and snatched right out off your fingers. The light switch clicked and soon your eyes had been greeted by bright white light.

And you learned that the figure that had been bathing in darkness is none other than Caleb, who looked just as freaked out as you.

"Why are you still awake?!" you screeched, putting a hand over your pounding heart. "Why are you out here just standing in the dark like some demon?!"

"I wasn't standing in darkness. I was sitting." he huffs, putting the plate on the counter table. "And I should be asking you the same thing, Pip-squeak. Why are you awake?!"

His eyes suddenly widened and his shoulders stiffened.

"You're...not gonna leave, are you?"

He looked like a sad, kicked puppy that made you feel like a super villain.

"No, I'm not leaving." you replied softly, taking a step closer to him after setting down the empty glass of juice on the counter table. "I was just going to wash these... dinner was delicious.... by the way..."

Caleb let out a sigh of relief before a smile came to his face. "I'm glad you liked it. If you still have room in your stomach, wanna go for dessert? I still have some of the ice cream that you bought last time."

Your eyes lit up at the mention of the sweet dessert. "Yes!"

As the two of you enjoyed the ice cream, Caleb took the opportunity to talk about what happened.

"I'll admit that I don't regret interferring with your work to save you from getting hurt." he started slowly, watching you just in case your mood flips again. "But I am sorry for getting you in trouble."

You shook your head. "I'm over it now, but... you have to remember that I'm also capable of dealing with dangerous guys. I may get hurt, but it's part of my job. You don't have to jump out and save me every time, even though I appreciate it and you, every time."

Caleb sighs, recalling you repeating similar words to him before.

He really does jump out of nowhere to save you a lot — in fact, anytime he can, he does it.

"You're right. I know you've gotten strong, Pip-squeak." he grinned, patting your head. "I'll be sure to remember it. But also, you have to remember... worrying about you is part of my job. That'll never change, even if you become the greatest superhero of the deepspace."

"Heh."

You can't help but laugh because it's true.

That is just how Caleb is.

And it's one of the things that you love about him, despite all the times he pissed you off by being over protective.

"If I become the greatest superhero of Deepspace, will you bring me more ice cream?"

Caleb laughs at your empty bowl. "All you have to do is ask and I shall obey, Pip-squeak."

Once drowsiness finally hit you, you returned to bed and this time, Caleb made sure to cling to you the entire time.

rafayel

You'd been extremely busy for almost two weeks because of a big, intricate mission. It left you very little time to rest, and absolutely no time to go out with your lover.

But once you finally got some freedom, the first thing you did was give him a call, asking him out for lunch.

"It's okay, Miss Bodyguard. You don't have to see me if you don't want to. I know you've been really busy to make any time for me."

Maybe he was just joking or being dramatic as usual, but something about his tone rubbed you the wrong way.

"Okay then. Bye."

The moment the call ended, Rafayel wanted to throw his phone at the wall.

Why did he say that?

He'll admit that he has been sulking, disappointed that he hasn't seen you for days; however, he knows it's not your fault. You're just doing your job, after all.

His mood hasn't been the best lately, and he ended up saying the wrong thing to you. Now, he scared you away from him even more.

He wanted to see you and apologize, but you sounded quite mad and he's certain you don't want to see him at the moment, so it's probably best to leave you alone for now.

Thomas entered the studio and almost tripped over a paintbrush on the floor. The place is even messier than before.

He found Rafayel lying on the couch, wide wake and staring at the ceiling.

"Your studio's getting way too messy. Maybe you should clean up a little."

"It's fine. No one's going to come over anyways."

Thomas was quick to notice his dispirited tone. Rafayel already seemed lonely last week, but this time his mood seems worse.

Another proof of that is the lack of progress on the paintings.

"You haven't started anything new yet?"

"I haven't had any inspiration."

The one hint that Thomas got about what was bringing Rafayel down is the yellow bird plushie right next to him, who he may or may not have been talking to.

"So, it's your Miss Hunter, isn't it?"

It's happened a couple of times before. You two have gotten into arguments before and it usually ends in the same way, with Rafayel sulking like this. This time, it might've lasted longer than usual.

"I don't know what happened, but I suggest seeing her and talking it out."

"I know that. But if she doesn't want to see me.... what if she starts screaming and hitting me when I'm there?"

Or worse, you tell him you hate him.

His stomach tightened with discomfort just by thinking about it.

Thomas chuckles lightly. "So what? You can take it, can't you? Then again, she is a hunter.... and she could kill you...."

Rafayel frowned and froze for a moment.

Then, he suddenly rolls over and drops to the floor before jumping to his feet. "Thomas, you're a genius!" he exclaims, grabbing him by the shoulders and shaking him vigorously. "I don't care if she stabs me with her sword! I'd survive. but... if I go on another day withour seeing her, I might actually die for real..."

"Hh — sure, I guess..."

"I'm gonna go see her now!"

Thomas watched as he started to scramble and sprint out of the room. "Wait, you should clean up first before — "

"Ow! Who put this paint brush here?!"

You opened the door and Rafayel immediately shields his face with his hands, as if to protect himself from you.

"....I don't know what's going on but I'm a little offended."

You wanted to laugh but you reminded yourself that you're still mad at him.

Or at least, you were.

The moment Rafayel showed up at your doorstep, all you want to do is hug him.

"If you're gonna stab me, do it quickly but at least wait until I say sorry first so it doesn't sound like I'm using my last, dying breath to make it up to you. I mean, I would do that too if I must, but I'd prefer if I don't sound pathetic and gross."

"...what?"

Rafayel pulled himself together and held both of your hands.

"I'm sorry for what I said. I promise I didn't mean it at all. I just missed you a lot and... I.... I might've been...a little grumpy because of it... but I still shouldn't have spoken to you like that. I'm really sorry."

You softened and held his hands tighter. "I'm sorry too, for snapping so fast and running away. I also wasn't in the best mood."

Rafayel didn't waste another second before pulling you into his arms.

"Let's not do that again. It's stupid and silly and boring."

"Agreed."

He buried his face against your neck and held you tighter for a little longer while your fingers brush his hair from the back.

Rafayel took a moment to feel your warmth.

You're here, right in front of him, after days that felt like months.

Letting you go will be extremely difficult.

"Miss Bodyguard...."

"Yeah?"

"Do you wanna come to my house? Reddie misses you...

"Just Reddie?"

"...well, I missed you way more, but you can spare him five minutes of attention. But that's it. The rest of your time is mine."

xavier

For your latest mission, Jenna paired you up with a new hunter that just joined your team. She said she wanted him to learn from you, so he became your temporary partner.

Xavier wasn't quite happy with the captain's decision.

Jenna never said he couldn't join you, right? The new guy can keep following you, but that doesn't mean he has to be alone with you.

Fast forward to the end of the mission, Xavier had been so focused on making sure the new guy keeps a fair distance from you, and the newbie almost got hurt.

You took responsibility and jumped in at the very last moment to save him, leaving you with a minor scratch on your left arm. Nonetheless, the mission was a success.

You confronted Xavier afterwards. You didn't care at all about the scratch, but you were more concerned with him letting his jealousy get in the way of the mission.

Captain Jenna scolded him about not following orders. Although she never specified that he couldn't join you, he still messed with the plan that the team discussed early on. Luckily, he's not deeply in trouble: he'd only been warned not to do it again.

You mostly repeated what Jenna said, but you also told Xavier that he shouldn't have gone out of his way to physically keep your temporary partner away from you, and that you wished he trusted you a little more, especially in a professional environment.

Xavier was unable to come up with a response and like always, whenever he's jealous, dark clouds appeared all around him as he sulks.

You didn't feel like cradling him at the moment, mostly because you felt tired from the mission, and you needed to cool your ahead after all that happened.

You went straight to your apartment after work. Soon after taking a shower, you landed on your bed and welcomed a nap.

Xavier anxiously paces back and forth in his apartment.

He knows you're sleeping because of the fitness watch app that you both use. He decided that he'll wait until you wake up before apologizing, so at the mean time, he's practicing in his head what he'll be saying to you.

You two rarely have arguments because he'd learned to be more straightforward with his thoughts and feelings, but when jealousy comes into play, he still struggles to contain himself. He's working on it, but he's having quite a slow progress.

He'll admit that he might have gone a little overboard today, and he hated that his actions led to you getting hurt, even if it's just a scratch. If only he hadn't gotten in the way.

"...I'm going now."

Unable to wait any longer, Xavier teleports out of his apartment and appears on your balcony — it's become a habit of his.

He found you sleeping on the couch of your living room.

Xavier walked up to you quietly and covered your body with the throw bunched up by your feet. He knelt down on the carpeted floor and admired your features.

He knew he shouldn't get jealous so easily, but how could he not?

He's so deeply in love with you, he can't help but act irrationally sometimes.

But even more, he despises whenever you're upset with him and because of him, so he knows he can't keep behaving drastically all the time whenever another person who shows an ounce of admiration for you comes around.

"You smell like burnt cookies."

Xavier snapped out of his thoughts only to realize that you had woken up.

He took a whiff of his white hoodie and confirmed your observation. "I tried to make you some cookies to make up for earlier but I got distracted and forgot about them...."

And by distracted, he means pacing back and forth across the kitchen while writing his apology speech in his head.

"Pfftt.."

Xavier scratched the back of his head while you laughed loudly. His eyes lit up at the sight of your joy on your face.

"I'm sorry about your cookies." he sighs. "And I'm sorry for acting the way I did earlier. I promise I'll... try not to get jealous..."

You laughed again, this time softer as you leaned forward to brush his hair with your fingers. "The truth is, I don't mind that you get jealous sometimes. Even I get jealous too."

"Really?"

"Really."

He never notices you secretly being bitter whenever someone is clearly attracted to him, though you never act out on your jealousy because he always reassures you that he only has eyes for you.

"It's normal to get jealous." you told him. "But next time.... just make sure not to step out of line and get yourself or anyone innocent in trouble."

Xavier nodded and kissed the palm of your hand that had been combing his hair. "I promise I'll be more responsible from now on."

You smiled and pecked his nose.

"The smell of cookies really got me. Wanna try again? I'll help you this time."

"I'd like that. But first...." he rested his face onto your lap. "Can we just stay like this for a little while? I think I need to recharge."

Your hand returns to combing his soft hair. "Of course."

[tumble-tv]

ICE raids are happening.

Any immigrants, no matter how long you have been a citizen of the USA, is at risk of being deported either out of the country as a whole or into what are basically concentration camps. Raids starting in Chicago, Illinois. and spreading to other major cities with high POC and Hispanic populations. The US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) have started raiding homes and families in California.

There are no "protected locations" as of January 21, 2025. Hospitals, schools, and churches are all at risk of being raided, where before these places were deemed safe and off limits to raids.

When it comes to spotting an ICE agent, look for these:

Weirdly neat/well kept hair (shaved heads, side parts, military burs for men; low buns, high ponytails, close cropped bobs for women)

Oversized jacket (long and bulky outerwear makes it easier to hide tools/equipment without being suspicious)

Both hands in pockets

Many undercover agents/cops buy cheap plain clothes off the racks so they aren’t seen in their own clothes. This can make their outfit seem awkward

Sweatshirts with the hood up

Sports apparel (warm up jacket, sweats, etc) with non-sports clothes (jeans, cargo shorts)

Cargo pants/shorts (usually full of items like their badge, flashlight, taser, pepper spray, backup handcuffs, zip ties)

Military or hiking style boots, sometimes chunky sneakers (extra points if none of it matches anything in their outfit)

Outline of a gun in their pants/shirt (easy to see when bending, leaning, or raising arms) (NO NOT SAY ANYTHING)

Overly friendly

Overly inquisitive

“How old are you” and “what do you know about this happening” are both red flags, along with generally odd and personal questions

Don’t fit in

Mismatched pairs in public spaces (usually cops do these things in pairs. They don’t talk to each other or acknowledge each other much, if at all)

DO NOT SAY ANYTHING UNTIL YOU ARE 100% SURE

YOUR BEST BET IS NOT TO SAY ANYTHING UNTIL THE SUSPECT STARTS ACTING OFF AND GETTING PUSHY

COPS ARE NOT OBLIGATED TO TELL YOU THAT THEY ARE UNDERCOVER

COPS CAN AND WILL LIE TO YOU

SCREAM “LA MIGRA” AT THE TOP OF YOUR LUNGS

For protesting:

N95 masks

Respirator/gas mask if you have access to one

Water water water water water (I hate to say it, but disposable one use bottles are best here. If it comes to it, you need to be able to drop and run.) Use for flushing wounds, flushing eyes of tear gas, and of course drinking.

Snacks! You'll be doing a lot of walking and/or running and need to keep that energy up. Trail mix, dried fruit, nuts, granola bars, crackers, jerky/meat sticks, fruit snacks, candy, etc. Think of it like packing your lunchbox for a field trip.

Eyedrops (teargas is a bitch)

Goggles (I bring my old snowboarding goggles)

If you are wearing a t-shirt or have exposed skin, put on fake/temporary tattoos. If you are brought into something and they say you were there, showing a picture of you with the tattoos, show them where that tattoo would be and how there’s nothing there. How would you get rid of a giant flower on your forearm in 2 days anyways?

Wigs fall under the same category as tattoos. The person they're claiming to be you has a blonde bob and you have green hair past your shoulders.It also makes it possible to go with a completely different color without the use of hair dye. This means if they try to arrest you later and try to prove it was you by taking your hair and testing for dye, it won't come back the way they hope. (Thank you @violetrosepetals for this addition!)

Hide your hair. I tuck my hair into my beanie since it’s short. If you have longer hair, try to do the same or tuck it into your shirt. Balaclavas are also a good choice, as they cover both your face and hair.

Power bank

Chargers

Helmet. Any is fine, my personal choice is a skating helmet since they’re rounder and can take more damage, but tactical is also good

Hand sanitizer

Gloves with hard knuckles (tactical gloves). These pack a good punch even if you don't have the correct form. Don't have those? Wrist guards for roller skating/skateboarding work kinda like that too. More of a slapping motion, but still hurt like a bitch. Extra points if they're all scuffed up from use and falls.

Bandanas. Somebody might need one for their face or hair, maybe you need to get dirt off somebody’s face, maybe somebody got injured. They’re great for anything and everything.

Cash (try to stick to cash, your card can be tracked)

Medications if you take them. If you get arrested or happen to somehow be away for longer than expected after the protest, it’s always good to have emergency meds

FIRST AID ALL THE FIRST AID (Tourniquet, Quikclot, chest seal, trauma shears, gauze, bandages, duct tape, and all the usual stuff you’d have in there)

Good shoes. Boots and sneakers are your best choices. Not heels, not platforms, not sandals. Good boots or shoes that won't come off your feet too easily when you run. Steel toed shoes are a great option. Your toes won't be squashed, but also it'll hurt someone a lot more if you start kicking.

Spare socks. Trust me. You can use them to stop bleeding if it comes to it, but also you can put rocks in there and boom weapon. Also if the socks you're wearing get wet.

As much covering clothing as you can handle. Plain jeans, plain hoodie, plain t-shirt, keep yourself as anonymous as possible. Black and baggy is best.

Photocopy of your ID, not your real one.

Sunscreen!

Make sure your clothes have pockets, even if you have a bag. You want everything to be easily accessible.

Do not wear contact lenses. If tear gas is used, that will make everything so much worse. Wear your glasses or go blind. If you have overly unique or identifiable frames, goggles are your friend here. Get some goggles that will fit over your frames, preferably ones that are tinted.

If you use mobility aids, cover defining features. Logos, brand names, colors, stickers, all of it. Take some old plain t-shirt and tie it around your wheelchair’s backrest. Wrap your wheelchair frame in cling wrap, then duct tape, or plain black self adhering medical tape. Cover stickers on your cane or crutches the same way. Electric chair? You have a little more work, but you can do it. Wrap it up. Same idea. Walker? Same thing. Cover. It. All.

If you are bringing a bag, make sure that bag is as plain as possible. No pins. No patches. No keychains. Except maybe a pride flag so people know which team you're playing on.

Scarf or keffiyeh if you have one. They have many uses!

Write a reliable phone number (of someone who is not at the protest with you) on your body. On the off chance you get arrested, that is your emergency contact.

Pocket knife.

Pepper spray/mace/bear spray

if you get tear gassed, shake around first before using water. Most tear gas is more of a powder and water has a high likelihood of just spreading it around. (Thank you @actually-a-bread-loaf for this addition!)

Tennis rackets also work wonderfully for chucking tear gas canisters back at those throwing them. Anybody asks, you're going out to play tennis with friends later. Baseball bats also work! (Thank you @azul-nova-24 for this addition!)

Anything you can throw. Soup for my family.

IF YOU CAN, LEAVE YOUR PHONE AT HOME

IF YOU HAVE TO TAKE IT WITH YOU, TURN OFF LOCATION SERVICES ON ALL APPS AND TURN OFF BIOMETRICS (FACE ID AND FINGERPRINT) SO YOU CAN ONLY UNLOCK YOUR PHONE WITH YOUR PASSWORD

COPS CAN FORCE YOU TO OPEN YOUR PHONE WITH YOUR FINGERPRINT OR FACE ID

MAKE SURE SOMEBODY KNOWS GENERALLY WHERE YOU ARE

If you see a potential or active raid, take pictures and note the time and location. Post online if you can, as well.

You have the right to remain silent. State that you wish to remain silent. Avoid giving information about anybody's immigration status. You have the right to refuse to sign anything before speaking to an attorney. You have the right to refuse searches of your car, your home, and yourself. Schools do not collect a child's immigration status.

I do not want to scare anybody, but this is what life is right now. That man does not care how long you have been a citizen of this country. If you are not a white, cisgender, heterosexual, Christian male, you are seen as less than by men in power. You are not less than. You are a threat to them, and they are scared. Keep it that way.

Even if you're not currently protesting, it's good to know this just in case. Things are happening very quickly, and there is a very high chance of it changing very quickly within the next four years.

Here's the link to my post on what to bring in terms of first aid.

If you cannot attend protests, that’s fine. Do what’s best for you. Even just reposting information helps.

This is an updated version of this post,

Updated January 27, 2025.

[chuluoyi]

𝐉𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐘 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐄

- sylus x reader

more than friends with benefits, definitely lovers. your relationship is one filled with banters, steamy nights, and secret strings attached... but when someone shows an interest in you, sylus won't hesitate to stake his claim for everyone to see

genre/warnings: 18+ suggestive content—minors do not interact!—jealousy, crack, fluff, smut, a dash of comfort, assassin!reader (not l&ds mc)

note: loosely a sequel to strictly (un)professional. how this snowballed into 3.8k... i don't really know :')

“Missus, please spare us!”

You shot an unamused look at the twins before you, who clasped their hands together, pleading for you to let them go.

“Why is it so difficult for both of you to say?” you hissed, crossing your arms together. “I’m not asking for much—just a recount of what happened!”

“Boss will have our tongues for this!” Kieran looked up at you, quivering. “No way, I want to live!”

“He’s terrifying…” Luke shuddered in fear, hugging himself. “You don’t know how frightening he is!”

You were holding both Luke and Kieran hostage, the tender preys, all because Sylus refused to reveal what you had been wanting to know these past few weeks.

“So you’re afraid of Sylus…” You fixed them with a steely glare. “But have you ever thought that if you don’t spill it now, I will be the one taking both your tongues?”

“—?! Missus, please!”

“Why are you bullying the twins?” A deep voice cut through the twins’ pitiful laments, and you let out an exasperated huff as your chance slipped away once more.

Speak of the devil, and Sylus shall appear. He looked at the scene before him as if you were all a bunch of kindergarteners.

Luke and Kieran immediately flocked to him. “Boss! Save us! She’s scary!”

And now you were suddenly the scary one. You rolled your eyes. "Your henchmen are useless."

Sylus glanced at you with a half smile, knowing what information you were squeezing the twins for. "Sweetie, just give it up. You'll find peace faster that way."

Was it wrong to be curious about what Sylus had been up to during the three weeks you were unconscious after the attack that literally took your life? Why was he being so secretive about it anyway?

“I know, you were so worried sick you didn’t even eat or sleep,” you taunted your lover with a wicked smile. “That’s why you won’t tell me about it.”

Sylus laughed outright. “Pftt. You’ve got quite the imagination. Good to know.”

Nothing much changed after that night of his confession—if you could call it that—to you. You were indeed no longer strictly his bedwarmer, but your banters stayed the same, if not even more sarcastic now.

“Chop chop, we have an auction to go to, sweetie.” Sylus placed his big hand on your head, amused. “Stop being a hissy kitten towards the poor twins and get ready, hmm?”

“I’ll definitely uncover it,” you shot him a resentful glare. “Just you wait and see.”

Such were your days with your true kindred-spirits lover. He would tease you during the day and turn you into a hot mess at night, and you wouldn’t have it any other way.

In tonight's auction, you had one target: the broker for a new rising star firearms dealer. Sylus had been eyeing him, deducing his goods could be a nice addition to his armory.

And so, you went up to him. However...

“...Are you single, miss?”

Here we go again.

You forced a tight smile. “Sir, I’d appreciate it if we can stick to subject at hand.”

The man blinked, then quickly plastered on a wide grin to mask his surprise. “Oh yes! Yes, I-I’m sorry, I got distracted— well, I’d say this is a pretty solid MoU... but I’ll need to contact my boss first.”

This weirdo... you thought with boredom, is so transparent.

This wasn’t the first time you’d dealt with a situation like this. Granted, you were pretty and you knew it, but usually, more distinguished men would be a bit more subtle about it.

“Take all the time you need,” you encouraged smoothly, your eyes crinkling in an attempt to look friendly. “As you can see, Mr. Sylus has proposed the perfect bargain for this kind of dealings.”

“I wouldn’t argue with that. I assure you we’ll certainly try to accommodate his request.” The man nodded and gave you a meaningful look, before coughing awkwardly. “Uh, sorry, what was your name again, miss?”

Your faux smile remained perfectly still as you replied, “Mephisto.”

The man’s eyes roved over you, and he grinned roguishly. “Right. Still, I never expected Mr. Sylus’ secretary to be as beautiful as you, Miss Mephisto...”

This was tedious. Your patience was tested with every leering look he gave you. Sylus must know this already, and he's somewhere laughing at the sight of you dealing with this creep.

“You flatter me too much, I’m average.”

“No, no! I mean it!”

He knows... yet he wouldn't do anything about it. Not that you would expect Sylus to barge in like a man blinded by envy, but still, he was insufferable for not coming to you just like he had for Miss Hunter back then.

The man kept droning on and on about himself and everything else that had nothing to do with the business deal, and you were this close to dropping him and using your Evol to shut him up when—

He then turned to you expectantly. “Oh, there is a dance! Miss, would you mind if I have your first dance?”

“Oh...”

And it occurred to you... why not spice things up a little?

Sylus’ dark crimson eyes narrowed silently as he watched both of you from the island table while savoring his glass of wine, before he let out a loud snort.

That vermin doesn’t have a clue he is playing with fire.

For most of your interaction, the firearms dealer’s broker kept giving you suggestive looks, and occasionally brushing his hand against yours on purpose. He wasn't even trying to hide it, and it was amusing to see how aggravated you looked the entire time.

Adorable. Sylus found you incredibly endearing these days, from your pouts to your glazed eyes whenever he thrusted into you—

You were oh so delectable… at least until he saw you holding that lesser man's arm, as he led you to the dance floor.

A deep frown immediately formed in his forehead.

“What are you scheming now?” Sylus scowled, half exasperated and half in disbelief. “You naughty cat.”

He was even more irked when he saw how casually you wrapped your arms around that vermin, twirling and pressing yourself against him in a waltz. Seeing him trying to hit on you was one thing, but for you to reciprocate was just plain unacceptable.

—and to his ire, your audacity continued throughout the night.

. . .

“Miss Mephisto, do you play pool?”

“I do.”

“Then, will you play with me?”

Sylus was now burning with tendrils of anger, watching you from a closer corner. He had seen the broker put his hands on you so many times that he had lost count—during the dance, mingling with other guests, and while sharing hearty laughs. All in all, you were acting as if you had forgotten he was even here.

You were threading on a very thin ice and whether you realized it or not... you didn't seem to care.

"Ah, I think your stance is a bit off..." And to make it worse, the broker was definitely seizing every chance he could, as there was nothing wrong with your form—you often accompanied Sylus playing pool, so you were a pro—and yet he still got behind you, trying to drape his arms around your body.

That was the last straw. Enough is enough.

Before Sylus realized what he was doing, he stormed over to where you were, yanked your arm forcefully, and effectively separated you from him. He didn’t give a damn about the horrified shout from the broker or the judging looks from other partygoers as he dragged you by the hand out of the ballroom.

“Sylus!” you nearly shrieked when he kicked open a door to a meeting room and locked it with his black-red mist. He pinned you against the wall, and crashed his lips against yours in a searing kiss.

“Mmph!” You tried pushing him back, but he was stronger and held you in place, his tongue forcing your lips open as he pressed the back of your head toward him. His other hand slipped inside your dress—between your legs— two fingers in—

“—!” you couldn't even squeal as he devoured your mouth and the shock set in, feeling yourself getting aroused by the minute when his fingers did that scissoring thing and edged you further.

After he was done with your mouth, his hot lips trailed down to your neck and shoulder blades, sucking hard on several spots, making you gasp and moan.

"Hah... this... is the price to pay for testing me, sweetie," your lover growled his nickname for you with satisfaction as he noticed you trembling body, nibbling on your shoulder. "You want to get punished so badly, huh?"

"Ahh..." you threw your head back, clinging to him, grinding yourself against his fingers.

"Is it funny to you? Watching me see him touch you?" Sylus' unforgiving ruby eyes stared down at you like a lion eyeing its prey. "What an insolent little kitten you are..."

His fingers kept moving and thrusting inside you in an alarming speed, mercilessly hitting that one spot that could make you cry. He was seriously teaching you a lesson by forcing you to come undone right then and there.

"I-I...!" you tried to refute, but then you felt the knot inside you burst, and in the next second, you could feel yourself coming all over his fingers, shuddering, your breaths coming in pants.

Feeling faint, relief washed you when he pulled out his fingers. You leaned and clung onto him, pulling him closer, and Sylus finally saw what a mess he had turned you into.

Your glassy eyes focused solely on him, seemingly pleading—and those swollen lips, as well as the sizzling heat creeping up your cheeks—

“Ha,” he let out a low chuckle, a wicked grin curling his lips. “If I can still make you look like this, then I suppose I can forgive you.”

“You’re a meanie,” you mumbled breathlessly.

“You’re the mean one,” Sylus tutted with narrowed eyes, starting to pull away from you.

But then you pulled him close again and pressed your lips to his, this time with a gentleness that surprised him.

There was no malice or burning desire in your kiss. Strangely, it felt far more intimate. You pulled away, the heart-stopping swirls of his red eyes captivating you as you pressed your foreheads together.

“Needy, aren’t you, sweetie?” Sylus whispered, holding your gaze, his breath hot against your skin.

But right now, all of a sudden, you looked so vulnerable to him, as if any wrong word from his lips would shatter you. It made him almost feel guilty for manhandling you so roughly.

You didn’t respond, just wanting this closeness with him. Behind your snarky words and little schemes, this was what you wanted more than the release you just got. Sometimes, you still worried—did he want this too?

“What is it?” Sylus asked with a frown, seemingly concerned. “Talk. Tell me.”

“Nothing…” you replied in a small voice.

“Do you feel sick? Want to go back?”

You shook your head.

You weren’t usually this quiet. Sylus couldn’t help being restless at your sudden change. It felt awkward for him to do what he was about to do next, but instinctively, he figured it would comfort you a bit.

You felt a pang in your heart when he pulled away, but in the next instant, a wave of warmth enveloped you as he pressed you to him, burying your head against his sturdy chest.

For someone who deals with blood and gore, your body felt too soft and fragile, yet still fit perfectly in his arms. Though he had held you and made love to you many times before, it was only now that he truly noticed how small you were.

“You’re warm…” you murmured, your voice carrying a hint of a whine.

So needy and pliant… for him.

“My woman is such an enduring mystery.” Sylus mused, sounding almost as if he were lamenting. “Sometimes she’s a brazen kitten without a shred of shame, but then she pulls stunts like this.”

Your heart picked up the pace. You are... his. That was right. You were his woman in every sense of the word now, and he wasn't shying away from it.

But to cover your embarrassment, you could only come up with, “Can you not refer to me as cat...?”

He shot you an irked glance. “No.”

“He calls me by your bird’s name.”

“...”

“Sylus, you can’t murder him. Your deal will go down the drain.”

“Tch.” Sylus blew out an annoyed sigh, glaring at you. “By the time I get back here, you’re going back with me.”

You rolled your eyes. “Yes, yes.”

Honestly you were exhausted, and you wanted to nothing more than a good sleep. But you couldn't just leave the broker without preamble because this deal depended on him, and Sylus too had some loose ends he had to tie before the two of you left.

Strangely, all eyes were on you when you returned to the ballroom. You wondered why as you navigated the crowd until you met the broker you had fooled in so many ways.

“Oh, Miss Mephisto, you’re back!” he was visibly and utterly drunk, and you cringed at the strong smell of alcohol on his breath. But then you noticed his eyes seemed to be fixated on your—

Neck. You realized in horror.

“Oh... hic, t-that... I-I see,” he blabbered, coughing awkwardly as he stared at the marks on your neck. “Miss... so that man is... y-your lover...?”

“Uh...” It was a wonder he didn’t recognize Sylus at first glance. Perhaps it was because he was so infamous, but it astounded you how this person couldn’t even tell that it was him.

"I-I thought... w-we..." he hiccupped again heartbrokenly, before snatching a glass on the table. "Oh, I need more drink!"

You observed him, half cringing. "Sir, I just want to remind you that once the documents are signed—"

"Yeah, yeah! It will be done by the end of the week!" he yelled at you. "Miss, how about you have a drink too!?"

Suddenly, a glass of gin was shoved into your hand, and you let out an irritated sigh. Yeah, he might be right. A glass of alcohol would help you sleep better tonight, you figured, so you chugged it down.

"Huh...?" And it didn’t take you long to realize something was amiss. The dizzying sensation set in far too quickly, you felt so hot, and you had to lean on the table next to you to keep from falling.

“Are you okay...?” a waitress asked you with concern, but the only sound you could hear was your own violent heartbeat. Before you knew it, the glass in your hand slipped from your grasp and crashed into the floor.

"Oh, miss! Are you okay?!" the broker suddenly got a hold over your body. "Oh! It seems you aren't feeling well! Let me escort you to you room!"

Room? You barely discerned what happened when he led you out of the crowd. Your head spun terribly, and then suddenly throbbed, making you clutch it and cry out in pain, "Ah!"

It didn't make sense, no matter how you saw it. You had a pretty good tolerance, so for you to get hungover from a gin was just—

“Oh, does it hurt much?” he suddenly asked in your ear, making you shiver. “Don’t worry... it'll be bearable soon enough... I’ll make sure you will feel good…”

It's him! You realized. He spiked your drink!

His arms were now locking yours, steering you to go into the elevator. You took a deep breath before directing your speech manipulation evol on him— "Let go!"

He was immediately jerked away from you, but as a result, you almost crumpled, your vision swimming and your head pounding intensely. The pain made you feel close to passing out, and yet you managed to trek forward, leaning on the wall for support.

You had to get away from him before he could catch up to you. Panic set in, and when strong arms caught you, you convulsed, thinking he had grabbed you—

“Stop thrashing!”

“S-Sylus...?” You looked up, trying to focus on his face, but everything was so blurry.

“I’m here.” His voice was ragged, and you’d recognize it anywhere. “What happened to you? Are you hurt?”

“M-my head...” Your voice came out as a broken whimper, clutching at your throbbing head. “Hurts...”

You were feverish, trembling against his hold, and you reeked of alcohol. Sylus instantly realized something was seriously wrong and pressed your head into his chest to provide comfort. “Just a little bit longer—” his deep voice carried a subtle hint of alarm as he hoisted you up to his arms. “Hang on, alright?”

But just as he was about to bring you back, he caught the sight of a fleeing silhouette in the corner, and realizing who it was, his right eye blazed, black and red mist swirled in the air and restrained the broker, engulfing his screams.

“S-spare me! P-please!” the man pleaded tearfully, pinned on the ground, and Sylus approached him silently, looking down at him with so much spite in his eyes.

“A roach that doesn’t seem to know his place…” The corners of his lips twisted into a sadistic smile. “Whether you survive or not depends on you. Best hope you’ll last.”

Despite his pleas, he paid it no mind as he walked away with you in his arms.

When you awakened, your head was no longer pounding.

It took you a moment to realize there was a cool compress on your forehead, you were now in a clean oversized sweater, and someone was holding your hand.

Sylus. You looked up to find him asleep, sitting with his back against the headboard beside you. It was rare to catch him sleeping. In this moment, he looked defenseless, yet a faint frown lingered on his handsome face.

Has he been waiting for you like this, holding your hand all night...?

You tried to get a better look at him, but the rustle seemed to wake him up instead, as his eyes cracked open.

“You awake?” he asked, voice so sultry it woke all your senses up. “I was just shutting my eyes.”

“Aren’t you uncomfortable sleeping like that?” you asked.

Sylus turned toward you, his eyes still hazy from sleep. “What about you? Feeling better?”

“Mm-hmm.”

He placed a hand on your head, ruffling your hair gently.

“Really, you...” His stare was so withering it made question marks appear in your head. “I took my eyes off you for one minute, and you ended up with alcohol poisoning?”

“—? I didn’t know! But wait, what happened to that bozo?”

Sylus gave you a deadpan look, and you gasped. “You… didn’t kill him and have his body secretly disposed of, did you?”

“Just who do you think I am?”

“…a kingpin of an illegal syndicate?”

Your lover’s scowl deepened further at your response. “Nah, he got lucky. I only returned him with a broken jaw, broken hips, and two missing teeth.”

“Sylus!”

If he looked sleepy before, now he definitely looked wide awake. Sylus always sleeps at dawn, and you wanted him to rest more than anything, but now you were itching to ask him...

“Say... were you waiting for me while sitting like this too when I wasn’t conscious for three weeks?” You avoided his gaze, the question burning on your lips. Sylus had never given you a straight answer whenever you asked him about this.

This time too, he grumbled, “Why do you keep asking that?”

“Because I can’t ask Luke and Kieran, they look as if you’d set them on fire.”

Sylus went silent, not giving you any affirmation at all, and you huffed and unclasped his hand, pursing your lips together. “I see. You don’t care about me at all. Noted.”

You heard him sigh, before his red eyes squarely landed on you.

“When I was shot, you worried about me even when you know I’m going to be alright,” he suddenly posed the question on you. “Didn’t you?”

You nodded, and he tousled your hair again—the action alone somehow made you feel warm.

“Whatever you felt that day, that’s the same to what I went through during those three weeks. Multiply it by ten.”

“Huh!?” you rose up from the sheets in surprise, facing him.

Sylus then turned away from you, crossing his arms and shutting his eyes. “That’s it, sweetie. I’m going back to sleep now.”

“Wait!”

You scrambled into his lap, clinging to his shoulder. Sylus begrudgingly opened his eyes again, a look of irritation on his face. “What?”

Multiply it by ten…? Heh. At this moment, you felt light and giddy, knowing that the two of you were now true lovers in every way that mattered even when you were faced with his sourness.

“Don't scowl too much!” you giggled merrily. You placed your fingers on the corners of his lips, gently lifting them to force a smile. “Honesty suits you much better, Sylus. It’s recommended.”

This cheeky woman... Sylus never thought the day would come for him to experience these myriad of emotions, much less for them to be incited by you.

He pulled you close, one arm around your hips and the other around the back of your head. Your lips met his in a passionate kiss that left no room for further conversation, only parting when you both needed to catch your breath.

“If you want me to, then don’t make me relive those nights,” he said with a sly smile, his crimson eyes glinting in the light and his voice like silk against your ears. “Can you?”

His tone softened your gaze, a warm sensation spreading through your chest. You responded with a playful snort, wrapping your arms around his neck and giving him another peck on the lips.

After your innocent make-out session, you nestled closer to him with a contented sigh, savoring the reassuring warmth of his embrace as you both drifted off again into the morning.

Epilogue

"Do you hear anything?"

"No, nothing..."

Luke and Kieran whispered amongst themselves as they tried to hear anything of importance beyond Sylus' bedroom. After their boss went back home with you passed out in his arms last night, they had totally expected the worst.

“Seems like she’s alright then…” Kieran concluded, stepping away from the door. “We should just go. If Boss catches us, we’re dead.”

The twins backed away from the door and went back to the living room, sighing in relief.

"But honestly, Boss has changed lately, hasn't he? He looks kinder, somehow."

"Are you sure, Luke? Maybe it's just when he looks at the missus. With us, meh."

“I still get chills thinking about when he destroyed the Protofield to dust after he found her following the explosion,” Luke gazed off in wonder. “It was the coolest thing I’ve ever seen, but it was also heartbreaking—especially when he tried to wake her and realized she was beyond help because the steel had pierced her heart…”

Luke and Kieran went quiet at the memory.

“Anyhow!” Kieran suddenly exclaimed. “All’s well that ends well! To be honest, I totally saw it coming that they'd end up together!”

“Ooh, you're right! They did a bad job of hiding it too, no less! I mean, one time, the missus came out of his room while—”

As the twins gossiped about their master and mistress, they were unaware that Mephisto the crow, perched nearby, was dutifully recording their conversation and would report it all to his master later.