#this is a story idea I had a long time ago

[kedreeva]

3 things i want to add, because there are definitely folks that I've had to teach this stuff to: keeping an open mind is not going to be enough, with how misinformation is spreading these days.

Take the example: "I just think fluoride in the water does X"

Thoughts /like this/ don't come from nowhere. When you have "I just think" thought, or "maybe" thoughts, or you notice yourself learning or having a new opinion from one you've previously had, this can OFTEN be mistaken as growth, as improving.

So, #1: Determine where you got that new opinion/fact. Did it come from a reliable source? Can you even ID where you got the idea from or did you just sort of "absorb" it from hearing it around? (an example: there are PLENTY of 'old wives tales' type bits of information floating around. One of the more common ones I see in chicken keeping is people recommending apple cider vinegar for everything, despite a complete lack of scientific evidence that apple cider does.... well, anything, aside from slightly inflame the GI tract due to acidity. The info doesn't come from science, it comes from one person saying it and others playing Telephone until "everyone knows" except no one actually does know)

#2: if it didn't come from a reliable source, is there a reliable source that actually backs it up? Is there more than one? Are there any extenuating circumstances or conflicts of interest evident? Does the "news headline" of the story match what the source material actually says or did it sensationalize it? (an example: I OFTEN hear people quoting that opossums eat 5000 ticks in a season. This isn't true. Opossums eat no ticks. There was ONE poorly done study that "found" they groomed them off and ate them, compared to 28 other studies that found zero tick parts in stomach contents or fecal matter from opossums. Which is a more reliable "fact" in this instance? I'm going with 28 studies that found opossums don't eat ticks).

And perhaps most important to not finding yourself calcifying propaganda or false info: #3 How do you KNOW the source is reliable? where did the source get their info/how was that info acquired? Were there any conflicts of interest? Has the info been corroborated by anyone else? How long ago was the info generated? Is there anything that might pressure this source into being unreliable? When was the last time you checked who runs the source and how? (example: chicken world again, there was a pretty well known chicken blogger who was releasing medical info on birds, particularly nutritional info, and recommending diets to people, as well as food additives. Even slightly scratching the surface revealed she was heavily recommending Purina products not because they were actually good [they are NOT, Purina is one of the worst for fowl feeds], but because her blog was sponsored by Purina... not exactly unbiased opinions being given)

Part of questioning information is questioning the sources for your information, not just the info itself.

That is one of the huge reasons FOX news has managed to get its hooks into people like my parents; the moment they decided that FOX news was a completely reliable source and stopped questioning where FOX got their info (and whether THAT source was reliable), they started going down the rabbit hole of mind calcification and falling for propaganda, to the point where my mother - a woman who worked for like 40 years in a research lab specifically for respiratory illness research - got angry with my sister during early COVID times when my sister insisted they get vaxxed/had to wear PPE before they were allowed to visit their vulnerable newborn grandkid.

So yes, examine the beliefs/opinions/"facts" you know, but remember that part of that is examining the sources of those things.

[pannman]

What's on your mind

Yandere Radioapple x telapathic reader

This story it is evolving in a way I never expected

Pt 3

Part 2 here

TW: depressed/anxious thoughts, controlling behaviour, threats, blackmail

The weeks after Alastor ordered you to befriend Lucifer and use your psychic abilities on him, Lucifer grew very fond of you very quickly. You always knew what to say and you always understood what he needed. It was like you could read his mind. At least that was what Lucifers thoughts kept telling you. Of course he had no idea you could ACTUALLY read minds. He was so happy to have a friend for the first time in who knows how long.

Unbeknownst to him, you were secretly relaying every private and personal thought he had to Alastor. Not that you wanted to. You may be in hell but you genuinely felt bad about what you were doing. Lucifer was quite the overthinker and it was easy for him to get lost in a spiral of negative thoughts. Hearing all this pleased Alastor.

"It looks like I've got plenty of fuel to feed the fire of his own insecurities" Alastor said grinning. You had went to get lunch with him as usual to discuss Lucifer and his thoughts. Alastor treated this outing almost like a ritual. There was no man nor woman nor overlord who could keep him from this. He had frequently canceled on others in order to not miss a single lunch with you. "Now that we are done discussing the king, you won't believe how ridiculous Vox's latest trend is. He actually thinks people are going to wear these bracelets that spy on them and track their whereabouts! As if hypnotism and listening devices inside those tacky miniature picture boxes weren't enough"

He droned on and you unintentionally blocked him out. You couldn't stop thinking about poor Lucifer. He genuinely believed you were his friend. And meanwhile Alastor was reveling in learning all of his vulnerablilities. You may not be able to read Alastor's mind anymore but you could tell that he hated the idea of anyone being more powerful than him. Because it meant that if he ever needed to get the upperhand on Lucifer he was pretty much out matched. And this gave him a sense of no control. Alastor has always been just a control freak

"I say, are you even listening?" He asked impatiently, ripping you from you thoughts. You sure were glad HE wasn't psychic. "Huh? Sorry just a bit distracted" you replied. "Thinking about Lucifer are you? Feeling some guilt maybe?" Damn. He wasn't psychic but that didn't stop him from reading you like a book. You tried to deny it. "No... I just... I'm kind of tired so I keep spacing out" you lied. He narrowed his eyes clearly not buying it. "Well then let us get you back so you can rest. After all tomorrow is another day of traitorous treachery."

"Yeah, ok..." you stood up but Alastor did not. "You do know though. There shall be no getting attached to your target. That would be an absolute shame. Imagine the look on his face if I were to reveal our little secret." You instantly panicked. "But-but our deal was-" he cut you off. "Our deal was that I can only reveal my thoughts to you by my choice. You run errands for me and read minds at command. I also seem to remember the part of the deal where you are not allowed to lie to me. Now... its very obvious you lied a minute ago when I asked you if you were thinking of the king. Am I wrong?"

You didn't see any future where this ends well so you admitted you lied to him. "No you're right I'm sorry. Please don't tell him. He's a good guy" you pleaded with him. He smiled maliciously slowly thinking it over. "I dont know... I think if you're getting too invested it might be time to put an end to it. I mean I do have plenty of ammo already why would I need any more?" He tormented. You grew mortified at the thought of Lucifer discovering the truth and how much it would hurt his already low self esteem. "Please! I'm sorry! I'll do anything just don't!" You begged. He smirked at your response.

"Anything? Well then I do think you deserve to be punished" he was taking too much enjoyment out of this. "What? What are you gonna do to me?" You asked. He chuckled at the fear in your voice. "All I want from you is more services. As your punishment I'd like you to be my assistant for a while. Clean for me, file papers, follow me at my heel to assist in whatever I need from you. Once I believe you have worked hard enough I'll consider your punishment over."

You knew he was simply tightening his leash on you but you couldn't stand the thought of hurting Lucifer. You couldn't let word get out about your powers either. You agreed to take your punishment

The following days led you to spend less time with Lucifer and more with Alastor who definitely put you to work. He threw things around and made a mess as he pleased then ordered you to clean it up, he wrote whole ass scripts for his radio broadcasts and made you stay up all night memorizing them (for who knows what reason), he made you get him coffee every morning and pick up his dry cleaning

Every second you weren't busy he found something for you to do. And he insisted you stick by his side in case he needed you. When you finally did get a day off Lucifer wanted to go out and feed the ducks. You agreed because you sort of missed him.

"So... you been spending a lot of time with Alastor lately..." he had definitely noticed you drifting away from him and closer to Alastor. Though you wished you could tell him you'd rather spend time with him. "Yeah... its just complicated" you were too exhuasted to think of a proper lie. Lucifer's thoughts were just as insecure as ever

*are they afraid to say they dont want to be around me anymore...*

*maybe I'm pushing them to hard*

*they won't tell me things... I thought we were close. Its been so hard moving to the hotel. I don't know anybody and pretending to be okay all the time is too much. Its just too much. But I felt like I could... be myself around them..."

"I hope they didn't stop hanging out with me because I scared them away... maybe I am too much*

You wished you could have just one break from hearing everyone's thoughts. Hearing someone's true feelings made you more empathetic but it was also emotionally taxing. You once again tried to put Lucifer at ease. "I'm glad you asked me to come. I know I've been pretty busy but I missed hanging out with you." You tossed some seeds to the ducks. Lucifers frown grew into a soft smile. His face was so gentle and pretty. Oh no...

Lucifer responded with a hint of relief in his voice. "Sometimes I think... I made you up in my head and you're not real." He immediately turned his head and yanked on his hat. Thoughts whipping around in his head like a tornado

*what was THAT?!?*

*WHO SAYS THAT?!?*

*They're gonna think I'm some kind of FREAK!*

*why do I wanna kiss them so bad right now?!?*

He turned to you face flustered gold "-YOu know what! Forget I said that, that was... weird. I'm weird. That was jus-" you cut him off with a kiss.

He melted into it. You felt him release all his tension and all his thoughts suddenly stopped. You felt yourself become calmest you've ever been in this moment. Lucifer finally pulled away and looked deeply into your eyes. "That was... huh? Alastor?" Lucifer peered behind you. You whipped around to see Alastor standing behind you and he looked absolutely visceral. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything! I just needed to borrow y/n and get their help with something in my radio tower" he grabbed you and started to drag you away.

"Hey! Asshole! You can't just drag them off like that! We were in the middle of something" Lucifer poofed and appeared in front of Alastor blocking his path. "Right... you were in the middle of being kissed out of pity by my friend here. Honestly you are so pathetic no wonder they feel sorry for you." Damn it. You had told Alastor pretty much every insecurity that Lucifer had. You may have had a deal with him but you couldn't stand there and watch

"Thats not true! I really like you Lucifer!" Alastors grip grew tighter and your arm started to ache. "Careful, you remember what we discussed about... getting attached to your target" Alastor was ready to let it all out. "Shut up Alastor!" You cried. "What is he talking about?" Lucifer asked. "I'm talking about how our little friend can read minds and has been reading yours for me for quite some time now..."

"....what?"

[kpop-reactions-povs]

I read a story about Wooyoung yelled at his girlfriend for the first time because of the pressure he’s under… and it made me imagine how Yeosang would be if he ever got mad 😭

can you write this idea?

Yeosang is practicing a difficult dance at the company, overwhelmed and frustrated because he can’t get it right. His girlfriend has been texting him all day, but he hasn’t replied. Wanting to cheer him up, she surprises him by coming to the company late at night with his favorite drink and snacks. When she quietly walks in and hugs him, he’s out of breath and trying to reset the routine. Without realizing, he snaps and yells: What are you doing here this late?! She flinches and tells him softly that she was just worried because he wasn’t answering, and came to check on him.

But he shouts again: I’m busy! Can’t you see I’m training?!” Hurt, she apologizes and leaves. Moments later, he notices the coffee and donuts she brought sitting untouched. Reality hits him he just yelled at the person who only wanted to care for him.... How can he comfort her?

I know I already wrote half the story in the request 😭 but I just really want to see it in your writing style that I love so much 🥹 If my long messages bother you, it’s okay if you don’t answer 🙏🏼

Im so glad u enjoy my writing 🥹🫶 and dw i absolutely love when the requests are so details so I know exactly what you guys want ❤️

Too much, too late

The mirrors were fogged at the edges. The once-clean floor was streaked with the soles of dance shoes, and the air in the practice room had grown heavy—stale with sweat and frustration. Yeosang stood in the center of the room, bent forward, hands on his knees, sweat dripping from his brow. His chest heaved as he tried to catch his breath, his expression twisted with irritation.

Again.

And again.

And again.

No matter how many times he repeated the routine, one part just wouldn’t sit right. His timing was off, his body out of rhythm. He could hear his instructor’s voice in his head, echoing corrections. His teammates had gone home hours ago. It was nearly midnight now, and he was still here—pushing, obsessing, spiraling.

His phone lit up for the tenth time on the bench nearby. Another message from you.

“Still at practice? Don’t forget to eat 💕”

“I miss you. Are you okay?”

“I’m a little worried, love. Can you text me when you have a second?”

But he didn’t have a second. Not right now. Not while he still felt like a failure.

He let out a long, angry exhale and reset the music. As the first beat dropped, he launched into the routine again—but his body lagged. The movements were heavy, sluggish. His frustration hit boiling point just as the door creaked open behind him.

Soft footsteps. The smell of vanilla and iced coffee.

And then, gentle arms wrapped around him from behind, resting lightly against his sweaty back.

“Hi,” your soft voice murmured against his spine. “You didn’t text back, so I thought I’d come see you. I brought your favorite—iced Americano and the cinnamon donuts you love.”

Yeosang froze. His mind, still tangled in frustration and exhaustion, didn’t register your affection. All he saw was an interruption.

Without turning around, he snapped.

“What are you doing here this late?!”

His voice rang out louder than he meant, sharp enough to cut. You flinched against his back and stepped away slowly, arms dropping to your sides.

“I… I was just worried. You didn’t reply all day, and I thought maybe you needed a break… or someone to talk to.”

He spun around, eyes burning. “I’m busy! Can’t you see I’m training?!”

The words were out before he could stop them. Your eyes widened in hurt, mouth parting slightly as if you wanted to say something—but you didn’t. You just nodded, the warmth in your gaze extinguishing.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered, your voice barely audible. “I didn’t mean to bother you.”

You set the drink and snacks down on the table and turned quietly toward the door.

“Wait—” Yeosang reached out instinctively, but you’re already slipping out.

The door closed behind you with a soft click.

And just like that, you were gone.

The room felt colder now. The music kept playing faintly in the background, but Yeosang didn’t move. His heart pounded in his chest—not from dancing, but from something else entirely.

He looked over to the table and saw it.

The iced coffee, still cold. The bag of donuts, unopened. A small napkin with your handwriting on it:

“Take a break when you can. I’m proud of you. 💕”

He stared at the note for a long time, the realization settling into his chest like a weight.

He had yelled at the one person who always loved him unconditionally.

The person who stayed up late to bring him comfort.

The one who only wanted to see him smile.

His eyes burned, and his throat tightened with guilt. Slowly, he sat down beside the untouched coffee and let his head fall into his hands.

“I’m such an idiot…”

He didn’t even bother grabbing a coat. Ten minutes later, he was on your doorstep, still in his sweat-soaked practice clothes, the bag of donuts clutched in one hand.

He knocked softly.

No answer.

Another knock.

Still nothing.

“Baby…” His voice cracked. “Please open the door.”

Silence.

He swallowed hard, pressing his forehead against the door. “You didn’t deserve that. You were just trying to love me and I threw it back in your face. I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry.”

A moment passed. Then, he heard the lock turn. Slowly, the door creaked open.

You stood there in your oversized hoodie, your hair pulled back, eyes still glassy.

“I thought you were too busy,” you murmured.

Yeosang’s heart cracked. “I was too blind.”

He stepped forward slowly, gently reaching out to cup your cheek with one hand. “You didn’t deserve to be yelled at for loving me. I was overwhelmed and I took it out on you. But that’s not okay. I should’ve texted. I should’ve hugged you the second I saw you. And now I’m standing here because I don’t want to go another second without telling you that I love you.”

Tears spilled from your lashes.

He stepped closer and rested his forehead against yours. “Please… let me fix this.”

“You really hurt me,” you whispered, your voice trembling.

“I know. And I’ll spend every moment making it up to you.”

You hesitated, then slowly wrapped your arms around his waist, burying your face in his chest. “Don’t shut me out like that again.”

“Never,” he whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of your head. “You’re not a distraction. You’re my anchor.”

Later that night, they curled up on your couch. You sat with your legs across his lap while he gently fed you one of the donuts you brought him hours ago.

“I think these are even sweeter after a fight,” he teased softly.

You rolled your eyes but leaned your head on his shoulder. “Only if we never fight like that again.”

He laced his fingers with yours. “Deal. But if we do… I’ll bring you donuts next time.”

“Better bring coffee, too.”

Yeosang chuckled, pulling you closer. “You got it, love.”

[vodika-vibes]

For Pride can we have something involving Sister?

Perfect Love

Summary: You spend a lazy evening with the love of your life.

Pairing: Clone Trooper Sister x F!Reader

Word Count: 1352

Warnings: None

A/N: So I've never written Sister before, so I hope I didn't butcher her too badly. I hope you all like my story! Also, I wasn't sure how to tag this, since I'm not sure if Sister is a legends character or not.

Click HERE to be added to my taglist

You never thought that you were the dating type.

Honestly, you just weren’t interested in it. Even when you were younger, the idea of dating strangers make you deeply uncomfortable. So, instead, you focused on building strong friendships.

At the time, you thought that it would be easier to develop romantic feelings towards someone you’re already close with.

It makes sense, right?

Only, the closer you got to your friends, m the more problematic they seemed to you. People who were great friends, but would be terrible romantic partners.

And so, you gave up. You focused on keeping your friends, though you did put some distance between yourself and the ones that are the most problematic, and you focused on your family and on building your career.

And then you met her.

Sister.

Meeting her was an accident. You happened to be in the right place at the right time, and while you’ve never believed in love at first sight, you were definitely attracted at first sight.

You didn’t even know that she was a clone until later. Never mind that she had been surrounded by her brothers, and that she had been wearing clone armor. You just didn’t see them. You didn’t see anything other than her.

You didn’t have the nerve to talk to her that day.

Or the one after.

In fact, every day, for a month, you returned to the market in the hopes that maybe, today would be the day that you worked up the nerve to introduce yourself.

In the end, Sister approached you with a warm smile and an offer to join her, and her brothers, for lunch. Of course, she thought that you had been eyeing one of her brothers, not her, so she got adorably embarrassed when she realized that you were vying for her attention, rather than the attention of her more charming brothers.

You asked her out on a date that same day. Tripping and stumbling over your words, your face burning and your hands fumbling with the sleeves of your shirt, you were sure that Sister was going to say no.

But she said yes.

The rest, as they say, is history. The dates and the late night calls that lasted so long that they became early morning calls, and the sleepovers where you cuddled up next to her and let her vent about the war, they were all just moments in the relationship that led you to the same important realization.

You love her.

Suddenly all of the songs you hear on the radio and all of the poems you read in school started to make sense.

And, at the time, you realized that you couldn’t imagine your life without her in it. So, on your first anniversary, you gifted her a key to your apartment, a pair of pajamas that match your favorite set, and a toothbrush sitting in the cup next to your bathroom sink.

That had been a year ago, and you’re happy to say that your relationship with Sister is stronger than ever.

With the war over, Sister is free to come and go as she likes. She has a good job, working at the senate under Senator Mon Mothma, and she’s home by dinner every night.

Every night is perfect.

You get to hold her hands and kiss her lips, Sister gets to wow you with her cooking prowess, and you get to see her smile at you.

And, little gods above, you never thought that this life was for you, but you’re so happy and so in love that the idea of going back to who you were before you met Sister seems like a death sentence.

You want forever with her.

So there’s a simple ring in your bedside table and you’re slowly working on a plan on how you’re going to ask her to be your wife, and you’ve been polling her brothers to see if they have any ideas, while also swearing them to secrecy.

But that’s an event for later you.

Because right here and right now, you just want to exist in the same place as sister. Because there’s no where else you’d rather be.

And so, you watch Sister from where you're perched on the edge of the bed. You're both dressed in your matching pajamas, and Sister looks absolutely perfect. But that’s not really what you’re paying attention to.

Well, it's not all you're paying attention to. Since you’re kind of pathetic when it comes to Sister and you can’t not notice how perfect she is. But there’s something more important you’re watching.

You're completely entranced at the way her nimble fingers are weaving her curls into braids. Two long braids that start at the top of her head and fall down her back.

You've never had braided hair, not even when you were a little girl. Your mother intentionally kept your hair short so she didn't have to style it outside of brushing it. And so you’re incapable of anything more complicated than a messy tail or knot.

But your hair is long now.

Well. Long ish.

"Hey, sweets?"

Sister pauses and looks at you in the mirror, "Something wrong?" Her dark eyes scanning your face worriedly.

You play with the ends of your hair, wishing, once again, that you had been born with pretty curls like she had been, "When you finish with your hair...will you braid mine?"

Sister looks surprised for a moment, but then a stunning smile crosses her lips. But she doesn’t verbally answer you. Instead, you watch as she speeds through the final part of her braid, and ties the end off, before she grabs a handful of stuff off the counter and hurries to your side.

As if she’s worried that you’ll change your mind.

“I’ve always wanted to play with your hair,” She admits as she sits behind you and positions you so you’re sitting in front of you properly, “But you always seemed content with your knots and your tails, so I didn’t say anything.”

“You could have asked,” You point out, as you look at her over your shoulder.

Sister shoots you a look, and gently turns your head so you’re facing ahead again, “I could have, yes. But I didn’t want you to think that I wanted to change your hair.”

“I wouldn’t have thought that.” You tense slightly when you feel the brush in your hair, and Sister presses a light kiss to your shoulder, to try and get you to relax.

“You’re very sensitive about your hair, my love.” Sister starts to run the brush through your hair, and your surprised when it doesn’t hurt. It always hurt when your mom brushed your hair. “It’s a shame your mother didn’t teach you to love your hair. It’s so pretty.”

“You think so?”

“Mm, it’s so soft, all of the time. It feels like silk.” Sister runs her fingers through your hair, and you shiver as your feel her fingers on the back of your neck, “It still isn’t very long, so a lot of the more intricate styles are still out. But simple braids are doable.”

You feel Sister pause, and then she drops the remote control on your lap, “What’s this?” You ask.

“Can you put on the cooking channel? I want to learn something new to spoil you.”

You laugh softly, but do as she asks, “You spoil me, sweets.”

“You deserve to be spoiled.” She lifts your hair and presses a light kiss to the back of your neck, “I love you.”

A broad smile crosses your face, “I love you too.”

Later that night, you’ll throw all caution to the wind and ask Sister to marry you. And she’ll laugh and grab a nearly identical ring from her side of the bed and say that she’ll say yes if you do.

But that’s later. For now, it’s just you and her, and the old Twi’lek on the holo teaching the both of you how to make a souffle.

And, in your little section of the galaxy, all is well.

@heidnspeak

@justiceandwar98

@etod

@kiss-anon

@lonewolflupe

@silly-starfish

@msmeredithrose

@cdblake1565

@badbatch-bitch

@continous-mistakes

@falconfeather23435

@tiredbi-peach

@kimiheartblade

@clones-cyare

@cc--2224

@mira-loves-star-wars

@trixie2023

@rebell-ious

@padawancat97

@sweater-sloot

@bb8-99

@wax-birds

@adriennelenoir

@omegaprime18

@bad4amficideas

@dukeoftheblackstar

@yoitsjay

@liz-stat

@arctech-fox

@lokigirlszendaya

@sailorflora

@jetiimasterbekah

@six-1mpossiblethings

@clonetrooperjournals

@ct7567329

@thatforlornfeeling

@moose-ubi

@adamime

@acatalystrising

@well-wa

@dreamie411

[boiledkwamaegg]

i was wondering, what is faenil’s relationship with religion? do they hate the gods for making them the dragonborn, or maybe they never cared about that stuff at all? did they dabble in making deals with the daedra?

You've unlocked a topic I'm very passionate about LOL I wanted to ponder on this one for a bit but I finally got around to answering, yay!

To start off, I'm linking a song here from Faenil's playlist that I think sums it up well. After all, the story of the dragonborn to me has always been about ascending to god status. Being something so big all in one single mortal body, that the rest of the gods are fighting over it. A soul sent by the god of time all the way to the afterlife to kill the end of the world. In Faenil's case, this soul is so bitter, so angry and so very very hurt, and they will do all of this while rubbing a big nasty middle finger in Akatosh's face.

I'm putting the rest of this text under a cut - TW: i explore religious trauma here and mention suicidal tendencies briefly...

I am really fond of the idea that the chosen one, the hero, is reluctant or almost unwilling to play their part. I mean, Faenil is straight up UNQUALIFIED to be the dragonborn. Yes, they are skilled, they are powerful, they are resilient, and they get shit done, but they are definitely not a hero, and they're just one mental breakdown away from letting the whole world end. And like, they know they're unqualified, and they are so very confused by it all. Well, someone has to do it, but why them specifically? And while they might use this hero title to get away with some questionable things every now and then, they kind of hate that they can do that. After all, Faenil has always believed that you get your way through hard work and planning, so the dragonborn stuff just feels... almost like some sick joke from the gods.

I can't imagine Faenil was ever religious or cared about following any gods at all, and as a skilled conjurer they know how dangerous the daedra are so they don't dabble with that sort of worship either. But since in the Elder Scrolls universe deities are very much real, they're obviously kind of unavoidable. I'm sure Faenil had their fair share of visits to the church with their father, and I'm sure he liked Auri-El a whole lot and had this facade of a good holy man that only Faenil could see through. And I'm sure Faenil must feel quite weird when they get to Skyrim almost a hundred years later to find out that all those mind-numbingly boring sermons their father forced them to go through as a kid applied to them more than they realized.

No, Faenil doesn't like the divines, not only because they're the annoying facts and logic type science person lol, but because they genuinely believe the gods are so cruel. They know that they're just a playing piece in the divine interdimensional time travel chess board, and they absolutely hate it from the bottom of their rotten heart. And why should you even waste your breath praying to something that doesn't give a single flying fuck about you? They will maybe sarcastically gasp Auri-El's name during some humorous situation, but that's as deep as it goes. No, as far as Faenil is concerned, they're a god themself, unworthy of any worship, but welcoming of it nonetheless.

I always say that Faenil was supposed to die a long time ago, but they're just really, really good at surviving. Like, they thought that they were going to die many times, and yet, they just never do, because the gods have all these mysterious plans for them. Every time they come to peace with the fact that this was it, the end is here and they had a good run but now it's time to rest - it just... never happens. They never get to rest. And Faenil has never really been actively suicidal or anything, they're stupid destructive but very good at carrying on and surviving against all the odds. Like it's gone to the point that it's almost funny even, that they always get blown and torn apart, and they just continuously pick their parts up and stitch it all back together and keep on going. But it's a pretty gruesome existence, to have it happen to you over and over again - to have someone do that to your body, and still having the strength and pure determination to pick yourself up over and over again like it's nothing and screaming fuck you at the world and saying that your body is YOURS and that you are indestructible as long as you choose to be. And at that point, you might as well be divine.

Well, it's beautiful, and it's sad, and I hope there's something for everyone to take away from that.

[i-like-blue-eyed-robots]

There are plenty of differences between the two main characters of Portal (aside from the player character, Chell). For example, GLaDOS is snide, cunning, and self-assured, while Wheatley is cowardly, expressive, and insecure.

The difference I’d like to dive into today is that while GLaDOS is passive and actively aggressively insulting the player character, and to some extent, so is Wheatley after being put in the chassis — Wheatley is very encouraging.

It’s strange, in a place like Aperture, for anything to be encouraging. I first assumed that Wheatley was using this encouragement to try to manipulate the player character. However a few particular lines stuck out to me on a second playthrough. “The both of you… Well done.” He doesn’t just congratulate the player character for giving him the high he’s craving, he compliments GLaDOS. The ‘person’ he’s been actively terrified of the entire game. The one who crushed him and he’s hated. Still, he verbally rewards her. And when she literally can’t do anything at that, because she’s A, a potato, and B, unable to help Chell in any way during the tests as evidenced by the “Thanks! All we had to do is pull the lever.” “What? No, you had to push the b— AAAGH!” lines, which is to say that GLaDOS can’t even offer hints of how to solve the tests.

Now, why does any of this matter, other than being an interesting foil to GLaDOS?

Because I can’t see any reason why they would program him with this. If his original purpose was to overload GLaDOS with an endless stream of ideas, as we’re told, then his encouragement wouldn’t really be a part of that. Technically, I suppose he could encourage her in order to reward ‘good behavior’ like not killing everyone in the facility, but given that she still actively tries to hurt him after he’s complimented her, and just her general personality, I’m not sure anyone would reasonably think that would work and go so far as to waste extra time coding that into Wheatley.

No, I think Wheatley learned it on his own. When Wheatley first takes over the chassis, he’s happy. I’d argue he doesn’t even have ill intent when he forces Chell to stay, or even when he calls her selfish. He’s more enjoying the rush of power he’s feeling at being in control of the entire facility, and he’s let it get to his head. But he seems regretful when he realizes the elevator is going to fall, and later, when he sees Chell again he seems to treat her in a friendly manner, like he still thinks nothing has changed in their relationship. But then GLaDOS calls him a moron. He reacts violently, with a streak of anger we haven’t seen thus far in the story. It’s so shocking that it’s almost out of character, and is collectively agreed upon to be a trauma response given how suddenly and explosively he responds to the insult. He clearly doesn’t like hearing about his purpose of being an intelligence dampening sphere, turning his back and trying to cover up GLaDOS’ words with “I’m not listening!” and he’s also clearly aware of it.

Most of Wheatley’s reactions to his trauma are not the pretty ones. He’s selfish, he’s anxious, he’s helpless, he lashes out when his delicate ego is bruised. However, I do think his penchant for kind words is an active choice, maybe one made so long ago that it’s become second nature, and he forgets about that choice the longer he’s exposed to testing in the chassis. But I think after a life of being told he’s stupid, and seeing even the other AI judge him as he fails at job after job, he decided to be almost aggressively positive. “Let me in! No, no. Too aggressive. Hello there!”

When he could get irritated with the player character “Go on. It’s alright.” “Floor. I’m on the floor. Needing you to pick me up.” He doesn’t. Even when he’s in the chassis, waiting to get that hit of the drug, he starts out polite. “Do it again. Please.” The please is added as an afterthought, after a couple of seconds, adding to the idea that it’s something Wheatley does on purpose. Again, it’s why I at first thought it was a part of him trying to get the player character to do what he wants, but with further analysis it makes more sense to be in line with a decision to be encouraging, when all anyone else has ever done to him is be unkind.

[mybiasisexo]

Entangled - Part 12

Pairing: Chanyeol x f.Reader Chapter Warning: Language Word Count: 8.5k Author’s Note: ...Hello 🙂 How has everyone been 🙂? Please dont look how long its been since I updated okay???? Lets focus on the fact that its chapter 12!!! Im so shook that its still going tbh but can i get a little commotion for still writing this? we really outchea!!! This story turned 3 years old a couple days ago lol I def should've been finished it already but hey, thats life! I want to thank everyone still invested and hope you love this new chapter! We have 2 chapters left!!!! Chapter 13 and an epilogue 🥲 so so bittersweet. but you guys have at least another year before its done lmaoo yall: thats not funny 😡 While rereading this story i realized something and I just want to mention, to anyone reading this fanfic, this is NOT a sign to get back with your ex!!!! ONLY if hes an exo member than you can consider it until then this is a work of FICTION!!! Pls pls dont be like Mel irl i beg 😫 Also is there anyone reading this named Melody? I thought about that too. Like you see thats the big nickname reveal and am like 'ok? thats just my name 🧍🏾‍♀️' lmfaoooo thats a funny thought! As always, thank you everyone! Replies, reblogs, and asks are greatly appreciated here! You know I LOOOOOVE yalls commentary, youre all so funny and it makes me so giddy when you tell me how the story made you feel 💕 Adore you all and hope you get to see bbh and kai this summer 😘

Being back in Seoul after everything that happened is different.

You’re different.

Yet, life doesn’t wait for you to adjust back into the routine you had before Jeju. You try your best to fall back into the life you had spent years perfectly curating, but find it frustratingly difficult to do so.

The hardest adjustment is Yerim’s new found absence. She’s become such a common fixture in your life, practically living with you, that not seeing her at all is a huge blow. You miss her laugh, her rants about her job and school, her bickering. She’s as much your little sister as she is Seulgi’s and it hurts not having access to her the way you once had. But you understand, so have been giving her the space she needs. That doesn’t stop you from constantly pestering Seulgi about her. Her response is always the same–Yerim needs more time. You have a feeling she’s keeping her distance because she doesn’t want to see Chanyeol, and you’ve told Suelgi to send the message that he is not in the picture, but whether she received the news or not, Yerim has yet to contact you in any way. 

Months pass by in a boring yet restless blur. The only day that really stands out is your birthday, but even with the little party Seulgi throws for you, and the facetime call you have with Sehun, it doesn’t hold any true significance. You distract yourself by keeping busy, throwing yourself into your work and Jongdae’s upcoming baby shower, which you volunteered to help decorate. Eunhee laughs every time you send her new ideas, claiming you’re more excited than she is. You chalk it up to this being your job so you take it very seriously, but the truth is that you are beyond excited for that day to come, because you’re eager to see a certain face again.

The truth is that, despite your attempt to keep him out of your thoughts and just focus on yourself and the life you have built, Chanyeol has never left your mind. You find yourself wanting to call him, wanting to update him on everything that he missed. He’s the first person you want to rant to whenever you’re having a rough day, yearning for his touch when you fall asleep. You want to hear his laugh and see that special soft smile that fills you with love whenever it graces your presence. You can’t seem to get over him this time, can’t shove his presence back into the depths of your heart that way you have been doing for so long. He tore that door down, making sure that he’ll never be forgotten no matter how desperately you try. It’s enough to have you coming to terms with what you want out of your relationship. 

You just hope when that day comes, that he feels the same way.

You gave in once.

Two months after the wedding, you get a memory from six years ago on your phone. You know it’s probably not the healthiest, but you refuse to get rid of any pictures or videos of the two of you. The memory is a video. You’re walking into a familiar dining room where Chanyeol sits alone, a paper birthday hat on his head. When he notices you, his face brightens, and he falls back in his chair in an invitation. You ask if he had a good birthday as you climb into his lap and he says it was perfect. You turn the camera so that it's now facing the both of you. Chanyeol kisses your temple, your cheekbone, then your cheek, and mumbles, ‘thank you, baby’. He then turns his head so that your cheeks are pressed together as you both look at the screen reflecting your image back at you, ‘I love you,’ you answered simply, as if that was enough. And it was. He holds you closer, nuzzling into you and the video ends. 

It reminds you that it’s Chanyeol’s birthday, but you can’t bring yourself to wish him a happy birthday. Firstly, you don’t have his phone number, and secondly, you’re no contact right now and aren’t technically supposed to speak to each other.

Still, not saying anything eats at you for a couple days and you hatch up a risky plan.

You know the odds are slim, but something in your spirit encourages you to try.

And that’s how you find yourself holding your breath as the other line of your phone rings.

“Oh?” You hear once the call is answered. “What a pleasant surprise.”

“Hello, Baekhyun,” you greet in return, rolling your eyes at his sarcasm. 

“Darling.” You can hear the smirk curling his lips and know that he’s teasing you.

“What are you up to?” You ask, trying to sound nonchalant.

“About to get lunch. I’d invite you, but it’s kind of a date.”

“Oh?” You ask, surprised he even answered if he’s entertaining someone.

Before you can question him, you hear exactly what you were hoping for.

“A date? I’ll humor you because I know how desperate you–”

Chanyeol.

He’s there with him, right on the other side of the line.

“Anyways!” Baekhyun interrupts, loudly drowning Chanyeol out. “What are you doing, Sweetie?”

“Darling? Sweetie?” Chanyeol questions. “Sounds like you’re speaking to your actual date. Maybe you should invite them out instead.”

“Nonsense. It’s your birthday lunch. But….” Baekhyun pauses for dramatic effect. “Maybe I should. It might make you jealous though.”

“Jealous of you annoying somebody else? Not very likely.”

“I’m not annoying, am I?” Baekhyun then drops the bomb by saying your name.

That seems to shut Chanyeol up.

“She says I’m not,” Baekhyun tells Chanyeol, despite you never answering his question. “What? Nothing to say now?”

Baekhyun chuckles smugly, but then he’s yelling at you.

“Yah!” He says your name again. “You haven’t asked me anything about my date! Aren’t you curious?”

“I shouldn’t intrude,” you finally speak.

“Please. Let me introduce you.”

“No, really, it’s okay!”

It’s too late. You hear the shuffling of the phone being moved around followed by silence.

Finally, Chanyeol clears his throat and says your name questioningly.

The relief you feel at hearing his voice is so intense it brings tears to your eyes.

“Hi, Chanyeol.”

He gasps at the sound of his name leaving your lips, and when he speaks, it sounds as though he has yet to catch his breath. “Hi.”

“Oh, brother,” Baekhyun says.

“Shut up.” There’s some scuffling, and then Baekhyun yelping in pain.

“Is everything okay over there?” You ask.

“Yeah,” Chanyeol says. “How have you been?”

You’re giddy, like you’re talking to your school crush for the first time. Which, in a way, you are.

“I’ve been….” You contemplate telling the truth before settling on, “adjusting.”

“Same here.”

“Well, since I have you,” you say lightly, pretending this wasn’t the whole reason you called. “Happy birthday.”

“Thank you,” he says vehemently. “I think this may be my favorite gift.”

You can’t fight back the smile threatening to split your lips. “It’s not much.”

“It means more than you know.”

“If that’s the case, then I’m glad. Enjoy your date.”

“My date?” It takes him a moment to realize what you’re alluding to. Once he remembers, he snorts. “oh, that. Between you and me, I don’t think there will be a second one.”

“Aaaaand you’re done,” Baekhyun says.

“No, wait!”

Despite Chanyeol’s height, Baekhyun has no trouble snatching the phone back.

“This is what I get for being nice,” he mutters into the receiver.

“Aw, Baekhyun, I’m sure he appreciates the effort you’re putting in to make sure he has a good time.”

“For that, I’ll let you have a little treat.” He lowers his voice conspiring. “He hasn’t shut up about you since coming back.”

“Bro!” You hear a mortified Chanyeol in the background.

“Looks like we’re at our destination. It was great talking to you.”

“Likewise.” In a grateful tone you add. “Thank you.”

All the humor leaves Baekhyun’s voice as he responds. “Anything for you. I’m glad you called.”

The call ends and life goes on.

December comes and goes, only bringing the cold in its wake. Next thing you know it’s January.

You bring in the new year with a resolution to be more open to new experiences and to take more chances.

“I see you!” You say, excitement evident in your voice.

“You sure?”

“Can’t miss that big ol’ head of yours.”

“Um, have you seen yours? Okay, wait, I see you now.”

You hang up and run over to Sehun, who’s pace doesn’t change as he saunters towards you. Despite how aloof he appears, he drops everything he’s holding to catch you once you jump into his arms, his hold tight.

“You’re here! You’re here!” You cheer, jumping once you’re back on your feet. Sehun can’t help but laugh at your silly antics.

Movement catches your attention and you peek behind Sehun’s broad frame to see a handsome man slightly taller than you with big round warm eyes and thick eyebrows currently furrowed in confusion as he watches Sehun interact with you.

“You must be Do Kyungsoo.”

He locks eyes with you and a slight nervous smile pulls at his full lips as he dips his head in greeting. Unsatisfied, you break away from Sehun and yank the stranger into a hug, missing the way he glances at Sehun in a silent plea for help.

“I told you,” Sehun sighs disapprovingly as you pull away.

“It’s an honor.” You ignore Sehun’s quip. “I hope Sehun already told you that your payment for staying with me is dinner of the gourmet kind.”

“I didn’t think he was serious about that,” he answers, laughing awkwardly as he readjusts the thick frames on the bridge of his nose.

“I don’t joke about food.” 

Kyungsoo lifts an eyebrow and blinks owlishly at you.

You decide you like him.

With a dazzling smile, you grab Sehun’s hand. “Let’s go!”

You lead the two men out of the airport, helping them put their luggage in the trunk before peeling out into the city.

“God, it’s been forever since I’ve been in Seoul,” Sehun says as he takes in the frosty scenery flying past.

“What about you, Kyungsoo?” You ask, searching out his gaze through the rearview mirror.

“I went to school here,” he informs.

“That’s how I met him, remember?” Sehun says.

“Oh yeah. I forgot. You were in the culinary program at our college.”

“Graduated early because he’s a genius,” Sehun praises. You don’t miss the way Kyungsoo’s face grows pink, but he remains silently looking out the window.

It’s weird in a way, meeting a close friend of Sehun’s that you yourself aren’t close to. It’s a grim reminder of your growing distance and the passage of time. You know you don’t really have a right to feel the slight tinge of jealousy from hearing Sehun compliment his friend. You have Seulgi, and Sehun has never made a big deal about your friendship. You think it has more to do with the fact that you’re not as close anymore. It leaves your heart slightly aching. 

Sehun and Kyungsoo tell you about the flight as you bring them to your apartment where they will be staying for the weekend. Seulgi and you had to get creative, because you don’t have any spare rooms. It was decided the boys would take the rooms and you would share the sofa bed in the living room.

Seulgi’s home when you arrive, doing some last minute cleaning.

“You look pretty,” you point out when you spot her finishing wiping down a counter in your kitchen. She gives you a guilty lip glossed grin before her attention is given to your guests.

“Sehun!” She embraces her long time friend and then sets her attention to the newcomer. She points at him. “The chef?”

“That’s me,” Kyungsoo says, lifting a hand with a crooked grin that makes his already handsome face even more attractive, if that’s even possible.

Seulgi’s smile is wide as she shakes his hand. “It’s nice to finally meet you. Sehun’s said so much.”

“All good things I hope.” 

“Sehun never says anything good about anyone,” Seulgi  points out.

“It’s a talent,” Sehun brags.

“Seulgi….” Kyungsoo says her name as their hands separate, testing it out as he racks his brain. “I believe Sehun has said something good about you before. That you make phenomenal art?”

She lights up at that. “He has?! Sehun!”

He sighs and throws an arm around your shoulders. Shrugging, he says, “I’m not a complete monster.”

“Should I show you your room?” You ask him. You take in the other two, noticing the way they seem to be watching each other. “Seulgi, why don’t you show Kyungsoo where he’ll be sleeping for the next couple days?”

“Oh, right!” She jumps at the sound of her name. Remembering herself, she leads the way, mouthing an ‘oh my god’ as she passes by. You giggle. Seulgi has been interested in Sehun’s chef friend since the first time she saw a picture of him on Sehun’s instagram. Kyungsoo isn’t aware, but this moment has been years in the making.

Now alone, you turn in Sehun’s grasp, wrapping an arm around his slender waist. “I knew this was going to happen. What are you going to do when they fall in love and he doesn’t want to go back to Busan?”

“Put Seulgi in the luggage. You’ll be moving in with Chanyeol soon anyways.”

“It hasn’t even been an hour yet and you’re already bringing him up?” You pull away and move you guys to your bedroom.

“Come on,” he sings as he plops onto your mattress like he owns the place. He puts his arms behind his head as he rests against the headboard and it hits you that he’s actually here. It takes everything not to start crying and running around the room in excitement. “Tomorrow is D-day, excuse me for being excited for you.”

Jongdae’s baby shower is tomorrow, and of course, Sehun is fully aware of the promise you made with Chanyeol in the gazebo. That day feels like it was both years ago and yesterday.

Sehun nudges your knee with his foot. “Stop playing it cool. I know you're excited too. You got that crazy look in your eyes.”

“What crazy look?” You ask as you sit at the edge of the bed beside his calves.

“Exactly what I said. You look like you’re up to no good.”

You huff a breath. “I’m just nervous.”

“Why?”

“What if he decides he doesn’t want to get back together?”

“He won’t.”

“But what if he does?”

Sehun purses his lips, contemplating. “Then you respect his decision, put on a brave face, and then cry in my arms when the party’s over. Okay?”

You nod dejectedly.

“I take it you’ve decided you want a second chance?”

“Yeah,” you admit. “I forgive him. I….” You look at your best friend. “I love him, Sehun. I really do. I want to be with him.”

Sehun’s expression turns soft and he drags you over his frame, hugging you. “Aigoo, my baby is all grown up.”

You let out a watery laugh and allow yourself to bask in your emotions. You’ve used this time exactly how you were supposed to. You have been able to process your feelings and separate your past self from your present self, and the present you is just as in love with Chanyeol as you were back then.

That is what makes you so nervous. You’ve changed so much. What if you give it another shot, but you don’t fit the same way you once had? What if he can’t bring himself to love this new version of you?

You shove away your doubts. Now isn’t the time to wallow on hypotheticals. Your best friend is here, in your arms, and tomorrow you’re going to bask in another friend’s joy. You’ll worry about that other stuff if they become a reality.

Since you voluntarily took charge of planning this baby shower, you have to head out early to the venue to set up. Sehun decides to join you, leaving the other two to get ready together. The chemistry between them is obvious and you wonder how the weekend is going to go for them.

The baby shower is being held in a party room that has large doors that lead to a botanical garden. Being that it’s mid January, the vegetation is frozen over and unbroken snow covers the ground. It still holds a whimsical charm and anyone that dares to venture out will find beautiful ice sculptures. The inside is a small room, which is perfect for an intimate celebration.

You are the first to arrive, along with some of your crew. Not even the parents-to-be are present, which is exactly how you planned it because you want to surprise them. This is your baby gift. You want to bring the warmer vibes of the gardens, so you have pink, purple, and blue plants and flowers overflowing vases in every corner. Sage green clothes cover the tables. 

Sehun refuses to lift a finger to help, which is annoying but unsurprising. You bring in a large wicker chair and put it at the head of the room. It will serve as Eunhee’s throne. Since she’s so far along, you don’t want her moving too much if she can help it and the chair is very comfortable, if Sehun sitting in it practically the whole time without complaint is any indicator.

“Oh my god!” You hear nearly two hours later. Turning, you see Jongdae and Eunhee enter. The two take everything in, Eunhee with watery eyes. She’s the one who spoke. “It’s beautiful!”

“Absolutely perfect,” Jongdae agrees, shaking his head in awe as he scans the place. You give Eunhee a big hug. She’s someone who came into the picture post college, yet fit right in. There is no one else you’d rather have carry your friend’s child.

“I'm glad you like it,” you say as you lead her to her throne. She notices Sehun and beams, singing his name as he stands to embrace her.

“‘Like’ doesn’t do it justice. You killed it,” Jongdae praises as he hugs you. When you pull away, he finally spots Sehun. “And did you help, Sehun?”

“Of course,” Sehun scoffs. “This was all my idea.”

“The only ‘helping’ Sehun supplied was keeping Eunhee’s chair warm.” You roll your eyes as the boys dap each other up. “Which, by the way, you’re expected to be in most of the day. I don’t want you lifting a finger for nothing!”

“Not even to eat?” She asks, rubbing her swollen belly.

“Nope. That’s what Jongdae’s for.”

Jongdae–and Sehun, finally–help with the last finishing touches as you monitor everything and lead everyone where they need to go. 

It’s around two when people start showing up. Eunhee’s parents are the first to arrive. You’re already exhausted, sitting in a chair with your bare feet propped up on another, gobbling down some baby shower meatballs. Eunhee’s mother finds you and immediately asks what she can do to help, and you’re beyond thankful to give someone else the reins, even though everything is pretty much set up.

Jongdae’s cousin, Kim Minseok, is the next to arrive. He comes in carrying the cake that holds the baby’s gender inside, and is the sole person that already knows. You’ve met the older gentleman a few times before and he gives major big brother vibes. He’s the strong and silent type, never saying much, but when he does it’s either something incredibly profound, or something so extremely out of pocket you have to side eye Jongdae.

When Minseok comes in, he kisses your cheek in greeting and smiles so widely you’re left blushing and stuttering when he asks where you want him to put the cake. 

It’s a moment still until familiar guests start to show up. The party officially starting means you’re now allowed to enjoy it as merely a guest, even though that doesn’t stop you from checking things from time to time to make sure everything’s running smoothly. All the positive words about the venue don’t go amiss and you smile proudly at succeeding in making a beautiful shower for your friends.

Sehun, who left your side the moment Jongdae walked in, remembers you’re there and nudges you. “Let’s take some pictures before the line gets long.”

He leaves little room for you to argue, dragging you over to a balloon arch you both spent way too much time finding the right spot for. There’s a professional photographer there who gets some good shots of the two of you. When Sehun is satisfied with the amount of pictures taken, you leave the arch and your eyes carry over to the wicker chair Eunhee still sits upon. Her head is lifted nearly straight up to meet the eye of the tall man conversing with her. The height is very familiar and your heart skips a beat as you realize that Chanyeol has finally arrived.

Swiftly, you turn to the opposite side of the room, and you’re glad you do because you find Junmyeon and Nayeon awkwardly standing there.

“Myeon!” You gasp and race over to your friend. Sehun sucks his teeth, but follows after you, knowing what you’re doing but just as eager to see Junmyeon.

Junmyeon says your name in the same tone and holds his arms out wide for you to fall into. Unsurprisingly, this is the first time you’re seeing him since the wedding. He holds you tightly and you think that he gives Jongin a run for his money with how comforting he feels.

“What’s all this I hear about you having drama at my wedding?” He asks into your ear.

You wince as you pull back. “I have no idea what you’re talking about. I was on my best behavior.”

“Ah.” he nods in understanding. “So, it was all Chanyeol then?”

“Isn’t it always?” You ask innocently.

Junmyeon chuckles and shakes his head. “I fear I missed out on a lot that weekend.”

“You had bigger things to worry about,” you assure, patting his shoulder because you can tell that he feels bad for not being there with everyone. Junmyeon is the father figure of the group and takes his role very seriously. Sometimes you forget he’s only a couple years older than you because he treats you more like a daughter than a friend at times. “Like marrying this lovely lady.”

You turn to Nayeon, reaching out to embrace her. Her smile is bright as she falls into your hug. You aren’t sure if it’s seeing her walk down the aisle or the solidification of her role in your life, but the hug feels like a new chapter in your relationship. 

“It’s good to see you,” she says, and it sounds sincere.

Separating, your smile matches hers. “You too. How was the honeymoon?”

Her smile turns shy. “Too short.”

“Oh, I bet! I didn’t get the chance to tell you, but you were absolutely stunning on your wedding day.”

“Thank you.” She grabs your hand, giving it a squeeze.

Junmyeon calls your name, gaining your attention. He takes in your interaction with unabashed pleasure. It has been no secret that you’ve had a hard time cracking his wife’s shell. “Sehun tells me you set this place up?”

“And did.”

“You should do mine next.”

You blink. “Will it be soon?”

Turning to Nayeon, you raise a questioning brow. She’s quick to shake her head. 

“No,” Junmyeon verbally answers. “But you know how the saying goes. First comes love, then comes marriage….”

“Then comes a very expensive baby shower, because I don’t work for free.”

“You told me this was a gift.” You glare at Seulgi, who joins your growing circle with Kyungsoo in tow.

“Yeah, but Jongdae isn’t a millionaire.”

Junmyeon frowns. “I’m not one either.”

“But, you will be. So, I will be overcharging.” You shrug.

“Everyone,” Sehun, who is bent at a weird angle so that he can rest his head on Junmyeon’s shoulder. Myeon has an arm thrown over Sehun’s neck, holding him close. Sehun is Junmyeon’s overgrown baby and it’s painfully obvious whenever they’re together. Sehun gestures next to him. “This is my good friend and business partner, Do Kyungsoo.”

It’s so strange how easily Kyungsoo seems to fit in with your group. He gives that half grin that you’re starting to find endearing and bows his head slightly in greeting. His cheeks grow pink at the attention Sehun throws onto him.

You lock eyes with Seulgi and ask her a telepathic question.

Her smile is soft. “I’m behaving.”

“Why?” You nudge her shoulder and she returns the gesture.

“So, this is where everyone’s hiding!” You hear Baekhyun’s unmistakable voice and then he’s popping up between Sehun and Kyungsoo.

You turn to give your attention to your loud friend, but end up locking eyes with someone else.

Chanyeol is standing directly across from you in the circle your friend’s have created. For a moment, you’re back in Jeju, at the table seeing him for the first time in years.

You have been anticipating this moment for weeks. You’ve pictured it numerous times, played out different scenarios on how you would respond to him. The skip of your heart, the small gasp that leaves you, the duling of your senses are all expected. What is surprising to you is a relief and longing so strong it nearly carries you across the space separating you both.

And he’s staring back at you with this content look in his eyes. None of the relief or longing currently rushing through your veins are reflected back at you, and your heart sinks as nerves take over.

Chanyeol appears…calm. Friendly. It’s as if Jeju never happened, as if he hadn’t desperately begged you to take him back. 

As if he moved on.

You drop your graze, ears burning in embarrassment for being so excited. You can already taste rejection on your tongue, and mentally curse yourself for believing for one moment that Chanyeol meant it when he said he would always want you.

You can’t resist taking a second peek to take in his form, seeing how he must have spent these last few months in the gym. His arms and shoulders are noticeably bigger, the cozy sweater he wears stretches over the new muscle tantalizingly. He must have dyed his hair black at some point and it washed out to a darker brown closer to his natural shade, instead of the sun bleached brown he was rocking in Jeju.

A shoulder bumps you and you lift your head to see Jongin with a teasing grin on his face. It drops the moment he sees your expression, and he says your name, concerned, drawing the attention of some others.

“I’m sorry. I have to do something,” you say, quickly leaving to collect yourself before anyone can question you. 

You don’t get far before Minseok stops you. He rests his hands on your shoulders, holding you far enough to intently study your face.

“Sir?” You say, wondering what he’s doing.

He tilts his head. “Only tears of joy today.”

You purse your lips. How does he know?

He pats your head. “Eunhee’s mom wants us to prepare the games. Come on.”

You sigh but follow Minseok to set up the games. A few of your friends partake in them. You forgot just how damn competitive Chanyeol is. He wins all four. One requires teams and you’ve never been more embarrassed by your friends in your life.

When the games are done, Eunhee starts opening gifts. You take this time to sit in a little corner alone, taking the party in and giving yourself a moment to congratulate yourself on a successful party. It’s beautiful and everything is moving smoothly. After the presents, the couple will cut the cake to reveal the gender, and then the party will wrap up. You wonder where your talk with Chanyeol will fit in. You don’t want to ruin this day for yourself, so maybe once it’s over will be best? The suspense is killing you though, you’re not really sure if you can last much longer. You’ve caught Chanyeol’s eye a few times since leaving the circle, and each time he’s given you a small smile or nod before going back to whatever he was doing. Nothing long enough to gain any more insight on his state of mind. Maybe he’s nervous? Maybe he’s healed? Maybe he’s dreading having to let you down easy?

Your brief moment of solitude is disturbed when Baekhyun slides into the seat beside you. 

“There you are,” he says, relief evident in his voice. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”

You sink into your chair, crossing your arms over your chest. “I haven’t been hiding, Baekhyun.”

He frowns at your tone. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” you answer too quickly, too sharply. You exhale and start again. “I’m just nervous, I guess.”

“About the party?” he pushes, and you know he knows why, he’s just being careful on how to bring it up. “Or… something else?”

You lift an eyebrow at him. “You know the answer to that.”

Baekhyun scoots closer to you. “You have no reason to be nervous. Chanyeol’s going to meet you where you stand, wherever that is.”

“Are you sure?” You ask. You catch the man of the hour hand Jongdae a present. The father-to-be narrows his eyes suspiciously at him. It’s a very cute interaction and it makes your heart flutter despite everything.

Baekhyun tilts his head in confusion, resembling a puppy. “Yeah? Do you not remember anything that happened in Jeju? it was never Chanyeol’s feelings that were ever in question. Just yours.”

A smug grin stretches his lips. “But you figured yours out, didn’t you? I remember when you just so happened to call me around Chanyeol’s birthday. Y’know that was quite the little coincidence.” His smile grows, showing his perfect teeth. “You wanted to talk to him.”

“Stop.”

He pokes your side. “Admit it! You want to get back with Chanyeol and you’re nervous because you believe there might be a chance he actually rejects you.”

“Ew. It sounds so…cringey when you say it out loud.”

“Is that you admitting that you’re still in love with him?”

You roll your eyes. “Yes, okay? I am! I…I still love Chanyeol, and I’m ready to give us another try. Happy?”

He pulls you into a tight hug, swaying you from side to side. “Beyond! I’ve been waiting for this moment for years! I’m so happy for you!”

“We’re not back together yet, Baekhyun.”

“Yet,” he points out, and that for some reason, calms your nerves, and you relax against him.

A deep voice clearing catches your attention, causing you to grow rigid in Baekhyun’s hold. Slowly, you separate from Baekhyun and lift your head to see Chanyeol hovering over you both.

He gives Baekhyun a stern look, and the shorter man snorts before lifting his hands in surrender.

Chanyeol faces you, but he can’t quite meet your eye as he asks, “have you seen the ice sculptures yet?”

This is the moment. Chanyeol is inviting you to have your talk. 

You shake your head. “I actually haven’t. Do… you want to see them?”

“Only if you want to.”

You nod enthusiastically and hear Baekhyun giggle but ignore it. “Okay. Yeah. Just, uh, let me get my coat.”

You don’t know if it’s guidance or reassurance you seek that has you turning to Baekhyun nervously. He supplies both by tilting his head in Chanyeol’s direction encouragingly. Stiffly, you get to your feet  and lead the way to the coat stand. Chanyeol takes your coat from you, holding it out to help you put your sleeves in.

“Thank you,” you whisper as he shrugs on his own.

He gives you a derpy grin. “My pleasure.”

All bundled up, you head out to the gardens. Only a few footprints stamp out the snow, showing how little people have dared to step outside. You don’t blame the others, it’s freezing. Your face goes numb almost instantly, but it’s still a sight to see. All the bushes have frozen over, and arches that appear as ice  line the trail. The setting sun and multicolored fairy lights scattered around add a sense of whimsy, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a parallel universe where fairies live.

“Boy or girl?” Chanyeol randomly asks as you both casually walk the path.

“Huh?”

“The baby,” he clarifies. “Do you think it’s going to be a boy or a girl?”

“A girl,” you decide. “Jongdae is such a girl dad.”

“You’re right. He totally is.”

“Good job back there,” you say, nudging your thumb over your shoulder where the party continues without you. “I’m sure all of Eunhee’s family are terrified of you.”

He chuckles at that and it’s music to your ears. “I do tend to get carried away.”

“I’ve never seen someone so serious about changing a diaper.”

“And I did it in ten seconds! That’s pretty impressive, you gotta admit.”

You give a noncommittal hum. “Fatherhood will be easy for you then.”

“You think?” He asks, eyes absolutely sparkling at the idea. 

“I do.”

“Oh, well… I think you’d make an amazing mother.”

“Really?” You ask, surprised. You’ve never really given motherhood much thought. It’s something so out of reach that you never entertain it. You did once, back when you wore your engagement ring. Chanyeol and you had discussed parenthood a few times. At the time, you’d both agreed you were way too young to think about starting a family, but now you’re in your late twenties, so you guess it’s something you should consider more.

“You’re a caretaker,” he continues. “Take today for example, I bet you were just supposed to decorate, right?”

“Yeah,” you admit quietly.

“Yet you ended up putting the whole thing together. You take care of the people you care about. You always have.”

“I never thought of it like that,” you admit.

He shrugs. “I’m just stating a fact.”

You come across your first sculpture. It’s an impressive six-foot ice dragon. You both stop to take it in.

“It’s impressive,” you remark.

Chanyeol nods. “I bet it took hours to sculpt.”

“Kinda sad it’s going to melt. Feels almost like a waste.”

“That’s the tragedy of art, but there’s beauty even in that.”

You’re quiet for a bit.

“I started going to a new cafe,” is what comes out of his mouth next. His attention never leaves the dragon, not even when your head snaps over to him in shock.

You know what he’s trying to say, that he no longer sees Yerim. His admission knocks the wind out of you, but you’re able to collect  yourself. “I’m sure the old one misses you.”

“Nah,” he’s quick to dismiss. “Though I hear I leave quite the impression.”

You click your tongue at that, which garners a small laugh from him, seeing humor in your reaction. Needing to change the subject, you give him a once over, taking in his reddening cheeks, the paleness of his skin contrasting beautifully with the darkness of his eyes. He’d thrown on a beanie to keep his ears warm, and despite them being covered, he still resembles a freakishly giant elf. Speaking of giant, his new mass overwhelms you. You can definitely notice the difference in his size compared to a few months ago.

“You’ve been working out,” you say.

He glances down at you, looking rather pleased. “You noticed?”

“How could I not? You’re towering over me.”

The tip of his tongue catches between his teeth. He likes that phrase, and you’re reminded that he has a size kink. You’re not that much shorter than him (this may be denial speaking) but being even an inch smaller is enough to get him going.

“It’s a newly acquired hobby I picked up after returning from Jeju,” he explains.

“I see….” And you do. It was something to fill the time, something to distract himself from the fact that you were once again not in his life, and wouldn’t be for a while.

The two of you leave the dragon and continue to the next sculpture. Chanyeol senses your understanding and presses, “so, have you gotten any ‘hobbies’ since I last saw you?”

You lift your arms out like a shrug and gesture around you. “This.”

He takes in the winter wonderland. “Then you spent it wisely.”

“It kept me busy for sure, but I’ll admit it wasn’t enough to distract me completely.”

Chanyeol nods in understanding. “It’s been difficult… going back to how things were before.”

A sharp laugh leaves your throat before you can stop it. His words feel like an understatement.

The next sculpture is an eight foot replica of the Eiffel Tower.

“I was foolish enough to believe that I could continue living the way I had been before the trip,” you admit, taking in all the little details of the ice. “But I outgrew that life the moment I landed on that stupid island.”

You can feel Chanyeol studying you, as if you are the one carved from ice. You wonder if he sees the tragedy of your design, that you’ve been melting, and if he still finds it as beautiful.

“Jeju changed us,” Chanyeol agrees. “How has it changed you?”

You meet his gaze, yours steady and unwavering. “It made me realize where I wanted you in my life.”

Chanyeol takes you in, gulps, and turns abruptly. You gape at his retreating back for a moment before jogging after him. His long legs close the distance to the next sculpture in record time. There are only two left and this one is of a beautiful woman, looking down at her plump belly that she cradles lovingly. You swear you can see Eunhee’s features etched into the clear face.

Chanyeol’s squinting up at the face, most likely noticing the same thing  and contemplating whether it is your friend or not.

“You ran,” you accuse once you’re standing beside him, out of breath.

His features smooth over, becoming expressionless. “You scared me.”

“That’s funny,.” He turns to you questioningly. “That’s how I felt when I saw you earlier.”

His eyebrows furrow. “Why?”

“You looked at me like….” You lick your drying lips. “Like you had moved on.”

“That’s what you saw?” he asks skeptically.

You give your attention back to the Eunhee sculpture. “Did I misread you?”

“Immensely,” he says, voice flat and intense. When you work up the courage to look at him again, you see a fire has built inside him that the cold tried to snuff out, but it burns through, warming you in turn.

“Oh,” is really all you can say under his scrutinizing glare.

“I’m sorry for scaring you earlier,” he says, still intense. “And for running. What were you going to say? Where do you want me now?”

“I….” You take a deep centering breath and tell him the truth. “I want you right where you are now. Beside me.”

A shocked laugh leaves him in a puff of condensation that bellows around you, stinging your cheeks. It feels like a caress, like contact, and it  makes you confident enough to proceed with your confession. “I've missed you so much, Chanyeol. Not just since coming back from jeju, but since calling off the wedding all those years ago. I’ve carried that suffering with me everyday, pretending I was fine, that I had moved on. But, after returning from the island, no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t avoid it anymore. It was too heavy a weight. All I’ve wanted since is to see your face, to hear your voice, to…to be with you. Not the college boy that I fell in love with, but the man that you’ve become. I want to rediscover you, I want to learn your new habits and meet your new friends. I want to be a part of your life again…. I want to be with you, Park Chanyeol.”

You can feel your throat constricting, and tears start to blur the vision of the man you love taking in every word you say as if they are bible. You inhale sharply, it sounds more like a gasp, as you try to control your emotions. Clearing your throat, you voice your doubt. “That being said, if you’ve decided that you don’t feel the same way, and just want your closure to finally move on, I respect that. This isn’t only about what I want. You have a say in this relationship too. So… where do you want me?”

The wobble in your voice seems to echo off the ice surrounding you in the silence that follows as Chanyeol hesitates to answer. At least it feels like hesitation. Is he debating how to let you down gently? Or is he still trying to process your revelation?

Finally, after what feels like hours, he says, “there’s one more sculpture.”

You follow Chanyeol wordlessly, your heart plummeting from his lack of response. The last sculpture is ironic in a way, depending on how this conversation goes. It’s two swans, their heads pressed together and their necks curving into the shape of a heart. 

Chanyeol is grinning as he takes it in. “I think this one might be my favorite.”

“It does have a certain charm to it,” you say sullenly. 

Chanyeol’s smile stretches, but he doesn’t say anything. You both quietly take in the birds, you wait patiently for Chanyeol to answer your question. 

“The gym isn’t the only thing that has been keeping me busy these past months,” Chanyeol shares. “When I came back, I found new inspiration, and have been writing music nonstop.” He chuckles. “My company has been very happy about that.”

“That’s good to hear.” you say, and you mean it. You know how much music means to the man before you, he bleeds chords and rhythms. Being able to make money doing what he loves is an honor not many people get to have. You’re so very proud of him for being able to have others hear his talent.

“Yeah. I took your advice. I truly thought about what you mean to me. I wrote those feelings down in songs and worked through the pain, the confusion, the hurt, and the hope. When I showed my music to my company, they asked me what had changed, and I told them the truth.” He shifts to face you head on and reaches out to grab your hand. “That I found my muse.”

Your breath gets caught in your throat as he continues. “I guess it’s more like rediscovered my muse, because it’s the same one as always. All of my music is about you. Only you. You ask where I want you in my life? The answer is simple. I want you everywhere. You’ve always been everywhere. You’re the melody of my life.”

You blink back the new flood of tears bombarding your eyes, overwhelmed by his words. 

He is watching you tenderly, and you swear you see his eyes as shiny as yours. The hand not holding yours cups the side of your face and you shiver from the icy bite, but it thaws so quickly you end up leaning into it. “I want to be with you too. It will always be you, Mel.”

The tears finally fall, and Chanyeol is there to catch them, to catch you. You both let out airy laughs, relief and joy bubbling in your throats as the situation dawns on you. 

“We’re really going to do this?” You ask, in shock. “You and me? We’re going to try again?”

“Yes,” Chanyeol confirms, resolute. “And we’re going to get it right this time. I’m not letting you go again. I don’t care what excuse you try next time.”

You shake your head. “You won’t have to worry about a next time.”

You pull back slightly and take out your phone, handing it to him. “Can I have your number?”

He grabs the device from you. “Are you asking me out on a date?”

You scowl. “Absolutely not! You’ll have to do the asking, sorry.”

“I think I can manage that,” he says as he types away. He gives the phone back, fingers brushing yours when you retrieve it. 

You stare at one another, only one thing in both of your minds. What did Chanyeol say last time? Seal it with a kiss? Well, that’s what you want to do now, you want to kiss him so bad your body shakes in yearning. Chanyeol gathers as much, his head slowly lowering to grant your wish, and you wonder briefly if you’re making that face again. His nose brushes against yours and you tilt your head back to lift your lips higher for him to reach.

Cheering shatters the moment, bringing you both back to the frozen yard of your friends’ baby shower.

You gasp. “The cake!”

You both rush back inside, making it in just in time to see Jongdae and Eunhee at the table, frosting and tears on their faces as they celebrate. You see a piece has been cut out of the cake, revealing the color inside.

It’s pink. 

“You’ve been staring at your phone all day,” Sehun points out. 

You immediately drop the block of technology. Groaning, your head falls into your hands. It’s been nearly forty-eight hours since Jongdae’s baby shower ended, and you have yet to message Chanyeol. You’re overthinking, naturally. Even though Chanyeol made it obvious that he wanted to try again, there is that inkling of doubt that keeps you from initiating conversation. You regret asking for his number. You should have given him yours, put the pressure on him instead. He had the chance to text himself, but you were dismayed when you realized he hadn’t. He was again, putting the ball in your court, going at your speed. Now why would he do that when he knew you? You assume this is a test, and you’re failing miserably. 

“Stop torturing yourself and text him already.”

You shift some fingers enough to glare at your best friend that sits  across from you on your pale wooden table. He blinks at you, the poster child of unbothered.

Sighing, you straighten in your seat. “I’m spending time with you right now. Everything else can come later.”

“Uh-huh. Lucky for you, I’m used to you using me as an excuse.”

You gasp dramatically. “I’ve done no such thing!”

He grins and reaches over to hold your hand. Sehun and Kyungsoo are leaving in a couple hours. You’re waiting for the other pair. Seulgi’s helping Kyungsoo get his stuff together, but they disappeared a while ago.

“I told you it was going to work out,” Sehun murmurs.

You smile sweetly. “I’m not going to say you were right, just so you know.”

He pouts at that. “Either way, I know you believe it. Look, you’re back with Chanyeol. Isn’t that crazy?”

“So crazy.” You shake your head. “I feel like I’m dreaming.”

“Then don’t sabotage yourself again,” he says in that casual way he does. “Text him. Call him. Either way, talk to him. Let him know how much you want this. You have to if you want it to work this time. Communication and all that.”

You swallow thickly, fear coating your throat. “Right. Communication.”

Sehun stands and walks around the table to drag you to your feet. He pulls you into a hug, kissing the crown of your head. “You got this. Next time I see you, you’re going to be hand-in-hand with Chanyeol.”

You return his hug tightly, missing him already. 

“Now,” he starts. “let's check on those two. We have to leave soon.”

He drags you to Seulgi’s door, opening it without knocking and you deeply regret it when you notice the pair in various states of undress, hungrily making out.

“Oh!” You’re not sure who said it. Maybe you, maybe Seulgi. But the new couple scramble to make it look like they weren’t just eating each other’s faces.

Sehun guffaws and you cover your fallen jaw.

“Kyungsoo!” Sehun calls between chortles. “I didn’t know you had it in you, man!”

“Fuck off,” Kyungsoo bites, face the color of a tomato as he looks anywhere but where a human stands.

“We have to leave in ten,” you say slowly, fighting a smile as you watch Seulgi attempt to pack, back facing you.

“We’ll be out there,” Kyungsoo confirms.

“Will you?” Sehun goads. “Or are you just going to finish what you started the minute we walk away?”

“Ten minutes, got it!” Seulgi shoves you both out of her room, slamming the door in your face. 

Sehun and you lock eyes and then burst out laughing.

“I told you!” You said when you catch your breath.

“Now you really have to text Chanyeol,” he says. “You’ll need a new roommate soon.”

An hour later, you’re alone in your room, once again staring at your phone. At the contact that merely says ‘Park Chanyeol’.

You remember the last moment you had with him. When the baby shower was settling and people were starting to leave. All of you were huddled together and Jongdae and Eunhee made you all take some photos, claiming how this was the first time in years that everyone actually was present like this. 

You remember how you all huddled together, how Kyungsoo tried to slink away, but Sehun grabbed his collar, holding him hostage next to Jongin who started chatting his ear off as though he’s known him for years. Minseok was also there, having what appeared to be a very serious conversation with Baekhyun.

You felt a body press against your back, and glanced behind you  to see Chanyeol shyly looking down at you.

“Is this okay?” he asked, voice gentle, fragile.

You nodded, voice caught in your throat. The photographer set her camera up, and someone in the back of the group stumbled, causing a bunch of you to lurch forward. Chanyeol steadied you with a hand on your hip, and kept it there once you were stable again. You made no move to remove it, and your silent approval had him relaxing against you. You held your breath, heart racing as you posed for the photos. The happiness you felt in the moment you were sure was perfectly captured. 

Of course, the others noticed, but surprisingly didn’t mention anything. Only giving you both approving or knowing looks.

You swear you can still feel his body against yours, his large hand holding you close. He wants this, you remind yourself. He never stopped loving you, so stop being a little bitch and text him! Go get your man!!!

Encouraged, you don’t think and send a message. it’s a simple ‘hey, it’s me’, but you might as well have thrown your heart at him.

You stare at the bright screen. Watch as those cursed bubbles start bouncing as Chanyeol types a response to your message. Then go away. Then come back. Then disappear. Then–

Chanyeol: Took you long enough, Mel

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[13tinysocks]

Ooo pls tell us what you had in mind for your other invincible x reader story I'm so curious☺️🤔

#nopromises BUT

I have tumbled the idea of another variant fic around because there are some dynamics in mdgf that simply won't happen due to curcumstance and plot.

Comic spoilers and more details below. The plot is insanely stupid.

There is no current title for the fic but the premise goes:

Mark is the Emperor of Viltrum and has spread peace throughout the galaxy. He is happy, fulfilled with his wife and daughter in tow. Leaving his son Marky on Earth long ago to fester- watch his success from afar.

Marky wants nothing more than for his father to notice him, to accept him as good enough. See him the way he sees Tara. Marky attacks, as we see in the comics but things are not reconciled. Things quickly go back to the way they were, Mark keeping him at arm's length. The hate festers into something worse as Mark and Tara's bond grows deeper. As Marky is never truly let into the family.

Mark needs to die but no known thing in the universe can kill him.

It's the future- Marky has rescources we don't have in this time. His father's history on Earth is extensively recorded. He knows about the Invincible War and how it failed.

That's where you come in.

You're a genetic experiment, a lab-born freak who escaped some time ago and became a space mercenary. Small time stuff but Marky sees a potential in you. He gathers you and some others, promising status in the empire and all the things your heart could desire. All you need to do is go back in time and make sure the variants don't die.

You must make sure they get what they want. That they thrive in their own universes, grow stronger with the centuries. (Using future tech to travel between them) Then, and only then, can you travel back to your timeline with them in tow. Have them kill Mark for Marky then double cross them- Marky didn't want any version of his father to live.

It didn't seem like an easy job but it's much more than you think. They're stubborn and untrusting and weak compared to the Emperoror. They don't care about Marky or helping you to anything but your body- because of course the same guy thinks you're hot like ten times over.

You must deal with man children, politics, and the kind of freaks that would kill millions. The thing about signing multi-hundred year contracts, things always get a little complicated.

It's very rough, very stupid as you can see. But TLDR: Yn from da future make sure variants don't die and get lost in the desert. The variants don't know yn and see her as a (sexy) political pawn.

Y/n has powers based off Jared Hopwroth from The Magnus Archives. Her silly villian name is Mutton, Mutt for short, because she's dog girl coded.

Mark's keep trying to take over each other's dimensions. Y/n is forced to play politics when she would much prefer fighting. Blah blah blah take some art.

ft Dregs <3

[hollyberrygarden]

"Eternity in the Embrace of Sloth," the newest costume story featuring Hollyberry and Eternal Sugar, is one of the best yet, imo. I had to make my own post about it

if you haven't read it yet, please read it before you read this post—not only because of spoilers but because it is a very interesting story. I think it's longer than the majority of other costume stories, but it is 100% worth it. you can find the story in-game in the Cookies tab -> Costumes (third button) -> Costume Sets (bottom left) -> it's the very first story on the top left; click the Story button with a book on it and you're good to go. alternatively, you can read the story at this link (takes you to the fandom wiki)

full analysis under the cut due to length

to summarize, it's an alternate end to episodes 9 + 10 of Beast Yeast where Hollyberry stayed in the garden with Eternal Sugar. Hollyberry chose to keep her friends trapped in the jars "all those years ago" and now guards the gates to the garden with a shield given to her by Eternal Sugar. she has some doubts about whether she made the right choice, and Eternal Sugar reassures her that she did

the entire story is filled with Hollyberry's thoughts about her choice, the garden itself, and the friends she left behind to live her new life. it's filled with her confusion and a consistent voice in her head asking, "was it truly the right choice?" she has no idea. but these thoughts haven't left her at all. we know this because Eternal Sugar questions why she keeps "tormenting herself instead of savoring the pleasures of Sloth." this concern is not new for Hollyberry; she has dealt with these worries for years, alone, without someone to support her or walk her through them

Eternal Sugar reads right through her, even when Hollyberry says she has no troubles because there are none in the garden. Eternal Sugar immediately gets angry—not openly yelling, but with words as "sharp as knives." she appears happy, but her words are filled with the veiled anger and frustration we see in the story. she point-blank tells Hollyberry not to lie to her and asks why she lied. Hollyberry is genuinely surprised because it's clear that Eternal Sugar has been watching her for a while, long before she descends in front of her at the start of the story to ask about her troubles. Eternal Sugar hopes she doesn't regret her decision to stay in the garden, and when Hollyberry doesn't reply, she says, "say that you don't." even if Hollyberry doesn't mean it, even if it isn't the truth, she wants Hollyberry to say she doesn't regret staying there with her anyway. she needs her to say it because anything else would disrupt the peace and "Happiness" they've forged together. or rather, it would disrupt Eternal Sugar's idea that their Happiness is actually what Hollyberry wants and is actually true

Hollyberry never actually replies to this, instead getting sucked back into her prior concerns. she thinks about her mindset when she was first convinced: fearful of a world of suffering, her heart "in dismay" and "on the brink of collapse." she was struggling, horribly so, and Eternal Sugar's promises sounded too good to be true. it was the escape she's always sought, right in front of her. she didn't even have to run to find it this time.

but her protective instincts, the way she's cared for her loved ones, have not faded. she guards the gates, but she wonders what from if there is no pain. she tells herself the decision she made was for her loved ones' happiness, but she wonders if they're just unhappy instead. she lives to protect those she cares about, but now she isn't, and she may even be the cause of that pain. she has a shield, given to her by Eternal Sugar herself, but there's nothing she needs to protect at all. everyone she loved is already safe. "happy." what else is she supposed to do?

Eternal Sugar calls it "boredom," which is probably close to the truth. when Hollyberry leaves to take a bath to take her mind off things, Eternal Sugar grows more openly angry, her eyes "colder and colder." she considers Hollyberry's thoughts to be "useless" and laments how much she has to keep an eye on her. her next choice is to not have Hollyberry guarding the gates anymore. we don't see the end result of that, but I think it would only backfire. without the gates to guard, Eternal Sugar can keep an eye on her, which, in theory, should help her further appreciate and enjoy Sloth. instead, I think it's taking away the final thing Hollyberry can do in the garden. with the garden fulfilling her needs and no monsters or enemies to fight, there is nothing for her to keep her occupied. Eternal Sugar is there, but her company is obviously not enough to dissuade her thoughts, if she has been with her for multiple years and still seems to regret her decision

but in the end, Eternal Sugar loves this about her:

"'ahh, my dearest. your imperfections cause you so much pain. and yet, you try so hard to hide it from me~ …mm, but that is precisely what makes you so lovely to me. he he.' after all, it was Hollyberry Cookie's own choice to stay. a choice to protect her friends. so strong, yet, so weak-hearted. could there truly be a better other half?"

Eternal Sugar's opinion of Hollyberry doesn't seem to shift, even with these thoughts. I think she loves these "imperfections" because it reveals her heart, weak to Eternal Sugar's influence. she convinced her to stay all those years ago, and even though she hasn't fully convinced her of the greatness of Sloth, Hollyberry still made that choice. it wasn't Eternal Sugar's decision. it was Hollyberry's. Eternal Sugar has never once forced someone back into the garden—so she says—but here, she refuses to let Hollyberry leave, both in this story and the main one, where she fears her cultivated Happiness is wrong. I think Hollyberry is the exception to her typical rule in that regard, since she thinks she knows her so well. she's so determined to show her how well she knows her that she doesn't mind the imperfections, the doubts, the potential regret, because Hollyberry is her other half. she isn't going anywhere. she has nowhere to run to. they both know this

the costume story shows us the alternate end to the Beast Yeast episodes, but it also potentially serves as a "bad end" to the story itself. Hollyberry refuses to accept the reality of suffering and doesn't awaken as a result, and Eternal Sugar gets to worm her way into her heart and soul, cultivating the Happiness she thinks is best, at the expense of everything Hollyberry ever cared about, and, to me, everything that makes her who she is. Eternal Sugar still doesn't seem to know her at all, no matter how much time has passed

[mhalachai]

telling the same story

I have had a very interesting few days, writing-wise. As some of you may have notices, I've had hellacious writer's block for like three years. Recently, I've been trying to overcome that, and the little bit I was able to work on recently to add in the last bit of Any Given Tuesday helped me get working again.

I had been noodling on an idea for a while when, maybe three days ago, I started thinking I could use the premise of the Hour of the Wolf (my Teen Wolf/MCU timetravel long-lost family story feat. Allison Argent) on something related to Anita Blake.

Note: It took me a whole day to remember had already done that in 2005 with Switchback, a story I didn't import over to AO3 as it's incomplete. (You can find it here; cw: rape)

Sometimes people say they only tell one story… and I just re-read Switchback and realized that I didn't create something new with Hour of the Wolf; I'd taken my one story and applied it to Teen Wolf.

Well. There you go. Anyway.

A few days ago, when the idea occurred to me to apply the HotW premise to Anita Blake, I went all in, I was writing, I was plotting, and I had over 6,000 words together by the time I managed to think my way through to the end of the story…. And then I stopped. I realized that I absolutely do not want to write this story as it's set because there's no chance of a hopeful ending. The story starts with irreparable loss, and there's no way to fix that.

So I stopped.

In the interests of transparency (and because I like throwing dark-haired girls and their preternatural sidekicks back in time), I've posted what I have written over on Dreamwidth if you're interested: https://mhalachai.dreamwidth.org/350287.html

We'll see what happens next. I want to keep writing and we'll see what I can hook into next.

[sideprince]

Ah fair enough, I misread the break between trials - though I do think there's still room for the implication that the press was at trials and it doesn't make sense that they wouldn't have been reported on. Can you think of any major trial in the UK that didn't have press coverage? Or any other western country? That doesn't really happen with cases that affect a lot of people - especially in the UK where the law is based in precedent. Also, it's not possible to contain information in a courtroom full of people. Someone always talks to the press. That's why courts have seats for press and courtroom artists for when cameras aren't allowed - it allows them to control the story. For that matter, in terms of due process, if the court merely wanted to strike a deal with Karkaroff and get names in exchange for commuting his sentence, they would have done it behind closed doors - his trial is either the Ministry's attempt to show their strength and deliberately parade Karkaroff and his list in front of the public, Rowling using a courtroom as a device for exposition, or both.

Also, why do people care that Snape is a young professor? Why would they be invested in him and remember things about him because of this? For one thing, we don't know he's the youngest ever, that's fandom lore because there's no information in canon about anyone starting their teacher career younger than him. But Hogwarts is 1000 years old, it's very possible there were young geniuses before him. But also, Hogwarts isn't the center of the wizarding world, it's just the center of Harry's story. Even if people cared that Snape was unusually young, and even if they knew and cared that he had been a Death Eater who switched sides, that information stops coming to the forefront of people's minds when it stops being relevant. And caring is not the same as respecting - we in this fandom see this as an impressive aspect of his character, but this is why I pointed out that there are always multiple perspectives. Wouldn't there have been people who would have looked down on him for being too young and inexperienced and dismissed him? (Yes, absolutely, British people are nothing if not paternalistic and condescending.) Wouldn't there have been people who just didn't care? Of course. Would anyone retain information about Snape long-term if they weren't emotionally invested in him? Probably not, because that's how human brains work.

I just think a lot of the reasoning behind the idea of "this piece of information was known therefore everyone was aware of it all the time" is based more in what the fandom finds compelling and memorable, but not what the average person in the world of the story would. Think of a major event 10-15 years ago that was all over the news. Can you list everyone who was involved? Can you recall every detail of every relevant news article about it? Probably not. I mean, just look around the fandom - everyone here has read these books multiple times, and yet we also all forget relevant details and facts regularly and have to look them up. The idea that the wizarding world cared enough about an unknown guy because he was a young teacher and a DE who defected to think of him years later just doesn't make sense - I mean hell, we're talking about a population who all knew Dumbledore defeated Grindelwald, spent decades accepting his reputation as wise and powerful, and immediately turned on him the second the Ministry and the Prophet started muttering stuff about him being crazy. People forget a lot more than they remember. I can't even name every teacher I had in high school, and I spent at least a year if not more as their student. I look through my yearbook and see affectionate inscriptions from people whose names mean nothing to me, and when I look them up their face might as well be a stranger's. And I have a good memory! I remember things as far back as the age of 2! Memory, especially collective memory, is not based in merely living through an experience or being aware of information, it's based in the continuing relevance of those things.

OK, think about it this way: if/when Snape's name is mentioned in an article about Karkaroff's trial, no one has any reason to remember it. There are more compelling things going on, and a lot more relevant information to focus on, right? Now, as a real life comparable example, imagine it's 1984 and you're watching Bruce Springsteen's Dancing in the Dark video. He pulls a girl onstage to dance with him. MTV plays the video hundreds of times and you see it over and over. The focus of the video is Springsteen and the absolute banger he's singing. The girl getting pulled onstage is a moment that stands out, maybe it sticks with you because you wish you were her. Years pass. You've seen hundreds of other videos, graduated school, got a job, you're dating your third steady partner, you're living your life etc. A lot of news stories have come and gone, the Berlin wall fell, the AIDS crisis is in high gear and devastating, and you've got stuff going on with your family and friends - life and history keep happening. It's a decade later, it's 1994 now. You watch the premiere of Friends. Do you recognize Courtney Cox as the girl from the Springsteen video? Do you even think about that video anymore, even though you loved it back in the day? Because the truth is, no one recognized her. Not until VH1 put the Springsteen video on an episode of Pop Up Video. Not until the video started getting played in rotation again and people went, "huh, that girl kind of looks like Courtney Cox." There was no google to look it up on back then, so until it became a fun fact that was confirmed by pop culture tv shows etc., no one noticed.

Because she wasn't relevant when people saw her in the video, and it wasn't until she was a household name and an international celebrity that people's brains connected her with that video - when they saw it or heard about it. They had to see the video again to make the connection - but the argument you're making about Snape being a DE and that being known is essentially the same as saying that people just had to see Courtney Cox on Friends to make the connection to the Springsteen video. And people's brains just don't work that way.

Listen, I know this is a stupid hill to die on. But it's my hill. I don't know why, but it is. I don't think it's reasonable to extrapolate meta based on priorities and perspectives that are rooted in what matters to fandom, instead of considering characters and situations based on how a given world operates. And I don't think it's reasonable to assume that every bit of world building that is of interest to us as fans would have been clearly stated in the text if it existed - and what often happens is that we don't even realize that's what we're doing. So for example, if the argument is that if Rita Skeeter had known Snape was an ex-DE she would have put it in her book and we'd know about it, then my question is why? Why would we know about it? Why would she or wouldn't she do that? We don't know what she wrote about Snape, if she did at all, but given that as far as Skeeter is concerned he murdered Dumbledore and turned out to be a DE doing Voldemort's bidding, he likely gets a mention. But we don't see it in the text. Harry doesn't read that part of the book, and Hermione doesn't tell us she read the chapter on Snape, so if we're using the approach of, "if it wasn't mentioned it doesn't exist" then we're also assuming that Skeeter skipped the most juicy part of Dumbledore's demise, which makes no sense.

Tbh I don't care what anyone's meta or headcanon etc. is about this - it's unknown info and theorizing is fun! But the thing I just can't get behind is thinking about these things from a perspective that's based in a reader's or fan's perspective of the text as such, without context or considering things from the perspective of the character or world being discussed. There's nothing in the text that indicates that the wizarding world was interested in Snape in any way until he killed Dumbledore - every aspect you pointed out is relevant to the fandom, and only the part of it that likes Snape (also I'm sorry I don't know how to phrase that without sounding finger pointy and you are my beloved mutual, I don't mean to finger point at all). I think you always have to ask yourself, "why do I think these character are invested in [thing/character]?" And if the answer is, "because I am" or "because we talk about it a lot in fandom" or "it's a given but I'm not sure why" then that's not enough. I think maybe the reason I feel so strongly about this is because of how often a popular headcanon becomes accepted as canon when it isn't, or how often people don't realize that their own sphere of fandom doesn't apply to everyone, and as a result fewer perspectives are given space and fewer experiences are allowed to be represented.

Imagine if when Severus called Remus over to present him with the Marauders Map infront of Harry - he just... told the truth??

"I recognize that parchment, Severus - it is a map my friends and I made together back in school. I haven't seen it since Filch took it. I'm sure it's been passed around quite a few student hands before it reached Mr Potter's - and I'm sorry, Harry, but I think it would be best if this stayed with Professor Snape and the Headmaster. It would prove invaluable in tracking Sirius Black."

[raiswanson]

Another Sorrelwood excerpt??

I'm having a lot of fun playing with this book. Planned to share another piece when I hit 15k but proceeded to reach it almost right after sharing the last one haha. See you for another one when I hit 20k!

(Full excerpt under the cut! Previous excerpt [here], next one [here])

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“What brings you to me, killer?” the dragon growled, voice low and savage. I felt it rumble beneath my feet. “Egg smasher. Butcher. You bring a reek of blood into my den.” She growled again, glowing eyes narrowing. “Monster.”

Not the only monster here, ma’am.

I kept my grip on EndClaw firm, but resisted the urge to raise it. “I think you know exactly what brings me,” I said, keeping my tone carefully neutral.

I may as well not have bothered, for all the good the effort did. She hissed like I’d hurled a javelin at her and rumbled the cave with more growling. “Food is scarce, growing ever scarcer. If the humans wish me to leave their fattened cattle alone, they ought to leave me more deer to hunt. I must eat. They know this.”

“Well perhaps you ought to be less of a glutton then, if you’ve already gobbled up half the forest. The village isn’t very pleased with the amount of game left to hunt either. They have to eat too,” I replied.

She hissed, tail thrashing and sending rocks sprinkling down over our heads. I eyed the ceiling warily as spread her wings in an empty threat display—she couldn’t fly or leap in these tight quarters. “What I took was no issue when there were ghouls on their doorsteps! I heard no cries over a foul dragon in their midst until I’d cleared the beasts and granted them peace! It is only now, when I am all that remains, that their eyes turn upon me.” Her eyes glinted in the trickling sunlight, icy in their fury. “Upon my hoard.”

It was a typical story, and not one I felt particularly sympathetic to. “Whatever deal you brokered with the people did not include you devouring their livestock. And my deal requires you gone,” I drawled.

[luvuomi]

a weathering with you au with amethos is starting to sound interesting to write about hm hm…

in a city that’s shrouded in dull grey clouds, giving way to perpetual rain that’s poured for months now — there was the occasional thunderstorm, but nothing that sethos wasn’t already used to. once upon a time, he would’ve found great joy in experiencing this kind of weather that otherwise seemed unappealing to most. but now, as he wakes up to the familiar sound of raindrops tapping against his window and the gloomy skies above, he suddenly finds dread for the awaiting day ahead.

one time when he’s out running a quick trip to the convenience store, he stumbles across a stray kitten in an alleyway, the poor thing wet and shivering from the cold rain. like the kind soul he is, sethos will place his umbrella over the stray, shielding it from the rain before ditching his original plan of buying himself snacks to instead buy the kitten some food and water. the convenience store worker will try to offer him an umbrella upon noticing his drenched state but sethos refuses, claiming he’s in a rush before promptly leaving after buying what he needs, not even bothering to take his change.

as he hastily returns to the alleyway, ready to feed and care for the kitten, he’s brought to an immediate halt as he stares at the scene before him.

the first thing he notices is… sunlight. bright golden rays of sun shining down from parting clouds that make way for clear azure skies. he’d almost forgotten what the color blue had even looked like, what warmth felt like as it now only lingers several feet away from him. the skin of his body practically craves it, yearns to be bathed in sunlight once more and before even realizing it, sethos begins moving on his own like he’s some sort of trance.

his steps come short though when he notices another detail or rather.. another person. a girl, probably around his age, cradling the kitten in her arms with a tender smile adorning her face.

the umbrella he’d left before has now lost it’s original purpose. sethos observes the stranger in silence, brown hair glowing beneath the sun that gave way to a radiance unlike no other and then, her eyes come into view; sethos can’t remember the last time he saw a sunrise, but now, he’s almost certain he’s bared witness to one within her eyes and oh how he longed to drown himself in them if only to know warmth and light once again…

[ifindus]

1660 - Cavalryman - Several wars under Denmark against Sweden.

1697 - Gunner - pre-Great Nordic War under Denmark against Sweden.

1774 - Skiing Soldier - pre-Theater War under Denmark against Sweden.

1785 - Infantryman - pre-Great Northern War under Denmark against Sweden.

1808 - Coast Guard Officer - Napoleonic Wars under Denmark.

1845 - Infantryman - pre-First Schleswig War under Sweden against Germany.

1855 - Infantryman - during the Crimean War (Sweden-Norway debated joining the UK and France against Russia).

1905 - Hunter - preparing for wars of independence against Sweden.

1914 - Engineer Officer - First World War.

1940 - Infantry Officer - Second World War.

[pollsnatural]

*was

[tatzlyip]

By the way a long time ago I thought about rewriting Chirin's Bell just for the hell of it because I think with some more story beats and cleanup it's basically a story/characters designed to hit a lot of the buttons I like.

And also I think I switched things around a bit just for it to make more sense to me. Like for example I think after seeing how hard this dumb little baby tries to kill him, it would be more impactful if it was Woe's idea to train him.

I wanted to make a little short comic and I'm considering making it again, but I don't know yet.