#this is v long hehe

[14dayswithyou]

💖 Day 3.5 is now available! 💖

For the last couple of months, only Server Boosters had access to the 3.5 update... Buuuuut now it's available for everyone to play in the 14DWY Discord — and soon itch.io once I'm happy with the QA and state of the game — so please don't feel pressured to join unless you want to!!

The full devlog + even more screenshots are under the cut ^^

What's been added to the 3.5 version?

📺 Streamer Mode!

I've been told that it's difficult to stream and monetise age-restricted videos on YouTube and Twitch, so I added an option to remove the sexual content and strong language used in the demo.

Now y'all can invite Ren into your bed for cuddles without putting your streamer career on the line /silly /lh

This won't affect the 18+ rating or dark themes/elements of the game, however! Although Streamer Mode will prevent you from seeing any "gruesome" CGs in the future, most of the core elements of the game will still be tied to the choices and decisions you make. So you won't miss out on the overall experience by using streamer mode!!

⚙️ Custom Pronouns!

It only took me one entire year to get around to it, but you can finally choose your own preferred pronouns (or use a set of pronouns instead)... At the cost of being able to change them mid-game ^^;

Since the original pronoun screen wouldn't update until a new scene was displayed, I temporarily disabled the feature. But once I find a workaround, I'll bring it back!

���� Choose how others perceive you!

You can now choose how the cast and narration perceive you! Originally, the narration was kept strictly gender-neutral (outside of pronouns and genitalia picked by the player), but this will soon change in future updates.

For more clarity: you don't get to choose the words specifically, but you can choose between masculine, feminine, and androgynous terms!

📋 Separate top and bottom genitalia!

You can now choose your tatas and pps separately! >:3

Alongside that, you can also choose your preferred body type!

I removed the "both" genitalia option because a few players still assumed it was an obscure version of "intersex". That wasn't my intention and I don't want to mislead anyone, so I took it out for now ^^;

I also didn't want to include a screenshot of the new genitalia choices in action (because it's NSFW), so y'all get the same character menu screen for the nth time instead lmao

📱 Relationship Screen Overhaul!

You can now change your own status for more immersion, and long-term Server Boosters will eventually be able to submit and use their own icon within the game as well!

Stalking finding your friends has now become easier by using "Buddy Maps"; a new app that allows you to see the location of all the cast members!

I want to offer players more incentive to check the relationship screen since they tend to miss the status updates, so hopefully this might help ;v;

It also says it "updates every few hours" so folks don't go overboard and check every 5 seconds to see where Ren is gdsghf (also keep in mind that he's a hacker lol)

🖤 Additional Scenes Update!

Day 2 received a brand new CG!!!!! Originally, I planned on only adding a few CGs sporadically throughout the game, but it didn't feel right to leave Day 2 so... empty... so I added a brand new CG to (hopefully) make things feel more balanced and natural!

If you decline Teo's offer on Day 3, Leon will now call and try to convince you to reconsider. However, players are still allowed to decline, and if they do, they'll reach a dead end.

After listening to feedback on itch, I changed some of the dialogue during Days 1-3 to make it seem more consistent! They're only small changes though, so it's honestly not worth looking for sdgjssga

🎶 Updated BGM and SFX!

I wanted to try out a different style of music to see if it fits the vibe of 14DWY more! The BGM features more acoustics to suit the "beachy" theme of Corland Bay, though I made a conscious effort to include piano elements as well to stay true to the original!!

I figured it'd be better to give players a live example before I make a poll (to see if they prefer the change or not) and publish it to Itch.

Some new SFX have also been added, though it's very minimal and honestly not that noticeable.

How to download and play the update?

(warning: clicking on the following links will open Discord!!) To download the Day 3.5 update, simply join the 14DWY Discord server, verify your age, and visit the "14dwy-updates" channel!

Alternatively, you can also wait until the update is publicly released on Itch to play it as well!! (It normally gets released shortly after a round of QA testing/getting feedback from the server, though I may release it earlier if I feel like it hehe ^^)

Enjoy!!

[avadoore]

PAPA V PERPETUA

trying my hand at some fanart hehe

[emry-stars-art]

Have you ever heard the noises axolotls make? its kinda quiet blub!, when they reach the surface of the water to gulp down some air. Anyway any time i see JellyNeil my mind immediately goes to Neil just making that noise

I HAVE NOW. wow I made a reel for the first time in forever just so I could get this across properly, here you go

(Audio from this YouTube video)

Find the mer au masterpost here 💕

[judasisgayriot]

[cankersoregirl]

How to process that Engfa looked at me like this……….

[kresnikcest]

I may have. had. a Malik/Asbel/Hubert thought. with established Malik/Asbel and Hubert finding out. Hmm. Hmmmmmmmm.

[kyoshialone]

tyyy beloved @ash-and-starlight for the tag here r some books im excited to read next year !!!

tagging (v optionally) @wakingstone @jumping-jackalope @legofbicuriosity @lesbianboyfriend 👉🏻👈🏻👀

[morphemeta]

the marionette, ground floor; 22nd january, afternoon / @anchoragestarters

Playing the role of concerned citizen, invested city council member, was one thing but performing that role to any satsifying degree was quite another. Hirokazu Amuro had not complained when he'd been taken aisde by the cops to give his take on what he'd seen but he'd remained utterly tightlipped about any detail not immediately crucial to the case. His business was entire his own. Of course, this was not a rule that applied both ways; everyone else's business was his as well and this whole thing had more than piqued his curiosity.

He'd been stood by an elevator on the ground floor of the Marionette, lit cigarette in his hand and smoke billowing up toward the high ceiling. There were no rules, of course, to stop him and any passerby who thought to complain would have received the deeply scathing gaze of a man who thought they were -- just as deeply -- stupid for even bothering. Still, with one sharp clap of the hands, a passerby's attention was demanded all the same.

"Dreadful what's happened here, eh? It does make you wonder about the state of security though," said Kaz, coolly, a drag taken from that still lit cigarette. "In a place like this too, to think it could so quickly go the way of that dreadful cinema downtown."

[oreonyu]

too many sacrifices

[vimbry-moved]

[ccaptain]

   heavy curtains are pushed aside, and the bright light of the sun pours in the bedroom.

   ' Good morning, Dr. Wuchlock! Rise and shine! '

   from the blankets, slowly and cautiously, rouses a figure: tousled salt-and-pepper hair first, a confused face with an opaque right eye second, a wrinkle in the pillow having been stamped in the skin of his cheek. nn hand clenches almost convusely at the bedsheets, the other hand confusedly going for his glasses-

   the stump of his forearm clashes with the wooded nighstand, making him jolt and groan in pain.

   ' Steady now, ' the young nurse is at his side in a moment, gently steadying the arm away from another trouble. glasses are placed on the man's face, hair carefully brushed away from his forehead.

   the man sighs. ' Thank you... Melany, ' he struggles to remember her name as if his mind was shrouded in fog. ' No matter how many years pass, sometimes I still like to pretend I have my hand... it's a bit frustrating, at times. '

   ' That's alright- very normal, doctor. Do you remember what this phenomenon is called? You taught me yourself! '

   another minute or so of silence. while Melany busies herself with straightening the blankets, the man slowly utters ' Phantom limb Syndrome? '

   ' Exactly! Nothing you can do about it, now- it is a persistant condition, after all, ' she chirps, pulling the blankets back from frail legs. ' But now, out of bed. I'll make you a nice breakfast, and then we'll see about the day, hmm?

   there's a somewhat sad smile on the old man's face now. ' Ah, Melany... what would I do without you? '

   ' Not much, doctor! ' she chides him motherly, playfully, an hand gently tapping atop of his head. ' And this is precisely why I'm here to assist you! '

 ' Steady now, ' Melany repeats, holding the old man by his forearms as she guides him to his deambulator. after a small intake of breath, she supervises him starting to move, and claps her hands once to express how proud she is of him for this simple, small feat. ' Now, slowly- to the table. Once you're about halfway through the room, I'll go make you breakfast, and still keep an eye on you! '

   ' Melany, ' he reassures her, legs gaining steadiness with each step. ' That's most unnecessary- this small walk doesn't tire me... '

 ' Just to be on the safe side, ' she answers back, keeping a watchful eye on him. true to her promise, once the item has carried him halfway across his goal, the living room table, she vanishes into the kitchen to start the food.

   as frail as he is, there's still some leftover determination in his old bones: steadily, step after step, he's almost there-

   a movement in the corner of his sight catches him off guard.

   there's a young man sprawled on his couch.

   cobalt hair have been woven in an high, elaborated ponytail, posture relaxed: a leg is elegantly crossed under the other, the realization that he's reading a familiar book and taking his time to read through the pages making him blink in confusion-

   blink. gone.

   the man is gone. the couch is unoccupied, uncreased.

   Melany's name is halfway out of his lips before he stops himself.

   there's part of him that grows scared of an home invasion- but interrupting Melany and worrying her is something the dying ember of his pride prevents a possible call for help. he's not yet victim of hallucinations- perhaps it's something else. perhaps he hasn't been sleeping well, and it's catching up to him. just that.

   with a sigh of mild frustration, he gains the upper hand on the table, safely landing in his chair as the scent of sizzling eggs fills the air.

   the vision fades into the back of his fogged mind, forgotten in favor of the promise of a good breakfast.

   ' Are the eggs good as every morning, Dr. Wuchlock? ' Melany asks, a cheeky smile on her face telling her that the answer is going to be the same as always:

   ' Excellent, and perfectly well-done as every morning, ' the old man confirms to her with a tremulous smile. ' you are very gifted: not a single time you have overdone them- though, I'd still eat them if you did, dear girl. '

   she laughs, cheeks coloring red with the carerfree sound. ' You're such a flatterer! Since I'm this much of a good cook, you better lick your plate clean, mister! '

   and how could he not? eggs and bacon, with a precisely toasted piece of bread. it's simple and filling, and delicious to boot. the old man has no need to be told twice. the plate is sparkling clean, having used the bread to scoop up the bacon-flavored oil from it.

   life can be good, sometimes. he leans back in his chair, listening to the familiar sounds of Melany humming and cleaning around the house, buzzing like a bee-

   ' Every time I come here to look at you, I don't know how to feel about it. '

   the foreign voice makes him jump, the fork clattering on the plate hard before it disappears under the table.

   the young man with cobalt hair abandons the couch, the book in his hand dangling between two slender fingers before he drops it to the ground. 

   an home invasion. for a moment, the old man is paralyzed to the core with fear- he isn't in his prime, and can't protect her from an ill-intentioned stranger. 

   the stranger moves towards his large cabinet, the one containing a myriad of colorful, differently shaped bottle of liquor. it has been a long while since his eye rested on it, and an even longer while since he sampled one- Melany strictly forbade him to drink anything other than water and some very diluted soft drinks to not aggravate his condition.

   the cabinet is locked- yet, with just a pressure of his finger over the lock, the glass door creacks open. gloved hands start rifling through the various bottles, an hand under each one with an unexpected care to not drop the heavier ones.

   ' My dad tells me that if I keep coming here, I'll never heal. ' a pause, the sound of words making the doctor tense up, on guard. ' But maybe I don't want to heal. I don't know. I'm conflicted. '

   stress turns into perplexity, an anciently buried doctor's instinct: the surviving eye scans the young man for any of the injuries that he claims he's not wanting to heal from, and finds none: no tears in the skin, no bloody gashes. no bandages. the unharmed home invader appraises a skull-shaped bottle, studded with little Swarowski diamonds, and blinks at it with what Wuchlock can only call curiosity. he has not stolen anything... yet. But it seems that the alcohol has his full attention. he could do without a few, for all those were worth-

   ' Perhaps... ' he starts, throat dry. a little cleaning of it helps. ' Perhaps you should listen to your father...? Surely, he's well intentioned... '

   the man stops any movement, going still as stone. it's the sudden expressionless, hard stare that pins the frail man to his seat, makes his surviving hand shake. 

   and suddendly the fog in his mind dissipates-

   his forearm grows numb and burns like liquid fire all the same. a trail of thick blood left behind him- a young, blond woman ishelped out of a septic tank, wrapped up in an unfamiliar dark robe, is tackles by a small, brown-haired boy as they both cling to eachother like lifelines. bloodshot, blue eyes look at him with nothing but hatred and contempt, judge him like many before.

   ' I hope this hurts, ' she hisses, holding her son close.

   Jakob has escaped their clutches. all hopes to the grasp they had on the blonde being to test on is now lost.

   all because of him.

   the demon with mismatched, empty eyes staring at him as he bleeds out on the floor- an expressionless face, hair wild and loose around it. an hunting, bloody knife in his hand. the one that hacked away his forearm, that still has his blood on it.

   ' Damn you and your kind, ' the wounded man hisses, tiles cold against his cheek before he lifts his head with the last of his strength. ' You ruined EVERYTHING! EVERYTHING, do you understand?! '

   it says nothing. it simply stares, unforgiving and unbothered by the explosion of anger, the other members of its group escaping behind it. and then, just as its about to turn, it utters the words-

   ' an average human male can die by losing from two and half to four liters of blood, ' it coldly informs him, before closing the heavy metal door of the experiment room with a calm that's deliberate.

   effectively trapping him in a grave of his own making.

   a familiar face...

   a voice reaches past his memories. ' No good morning for me today, Doctor? '

   another pang of recognition: they had this conversation before. one in front of the other, the biologist bubbling with barely contained anger and the being, indifferent and sarcastic. it feels like this stand-off happened ages ago.

   the name comes to dry lips almost automatical, familiar. ' Alberich? '

   Alberich stops his rifling through exotic bottles, turning to look at him. there's a faint, sourly satisfied smile on his lips that doesn't reach his eye. ' It always takes you a while to remember. But I'm patient- I have all the time in the world. '

   there's a whimper coming from the man, hunching down in his chair, preparing for the worst: a lash out, another one of his limbs being removed by force- but the young man simply stares at him, long lashes blinking before he resumes rustling in his private collections.

   Wuchlock doesn't know what to make of it. every muscle of his body is taut, trembling with every fever of his being. ' What do you mean- that it takes me a while to remember? '

   ' I come here every month, ' he explains, a shrug of bare shoulders as he perouses to his liking. ' Sometimes, you remember as soon as you see me. Sometimes, it takes you half a day- but I don't mind waiting, as I said. '

   this is the end of the line, is it? there's a sense of finality that Wuchlock can perceive, that makes his bones shake until his teeth are chattering from pure fear. he used to not feel fear, before meeting the being that was Kaeya Alberich. 

   ' Why are you here? ' he asks, pitifully trembling like a leaf. he's no match for him. he was never any match, and he should have expected it. 

   what he doesn't expect is for the Emanator of Enigmata to stop his actions. it turns to stare at him, seemingly lost in thoughts.

  ' I am familiar with the concept of revenge. ' it starts, then stops, and starts again. ' It implies that the person who has done a terrible deed gets... comeuppance. is this the word I could use? retribution. But I'm not a Galaxy Ranger, so the deeper meaning of it escapes me. Perhaps, one day, I'll ask one of them about it, and I'll have a more precise answer. '

 a non-answer. Wuchlock doesn't understand if he'll be executed, or if he gets to live another day. the insecurity and fear fuel his frustration. ' Alberich! ' he barks, and frosty diamond settle back on him at the display of the familiar tone. ' Enough of these verbal enigmas of yours! Can you never give a straight answer? Would it kill you to? '

   there's a long pause, eye leveling the other as Kaeya seems to have come to a decision on what to pick: a large bottle of whiskey, coloring it gold, one of the least elaborated ones.

   ' Schadenfreude, ' he speaks in a perfect German accent, almost as if another person was speaking. ' The emotional experience of delight at one's misfortune. '

   and then, he starts laughing.

   chuckling, more like. something rumbling in his throat, dark and foreboding with a slight curl of soft lips. he shakes his head, letting cobalt bangs hang from his forehead before he speaks again. something damning:

   ' Hannah has no intentions on forgiving you, ' it's explained to him, the curl fading from his face. no myrth or amusement left on it- just an hard stare. 

   ' But it doesn't matter how much I try to force you to aknowledge this; even when mutilated and lucid you're still convinced that you're the misurestood hero of the situation. ' another, dry chuckle. ' Then, this is the end that awaits such an heroic soul. '

when Wuchlock tries to respond, his throat is dry and tight with anger. he's shaking, his disabilities forgotten. 

   for a moment, it's back to the middle-aged biologist standing in front of a being with an hospital gown on, towering over him.

   Alberich seems so pleased with himself: his posture has relaxed considerably, pale diamond full of unspoken mockery. ' Cheers to the hero of the world, Edward Wuchlock, ' he lifts the stolen bottle, lips revealing a snarl of pearly white teeth. 

   and then, just as he has appeared, he's gone.

   he finds himself alone in the room, wobbling in place as the mental fog envelopes him once again: with numb surprise, he realizes that his hand is fisted impossibly tight and that his joints hurt, hurt even more when he slowly releases his grip on nothing and everything creaks and cracks.

   ' Melany? ' he calls, helpless and suddendly scared, terrified. ' Melany! Melany, please... '

   ' Oh! ' the girl turns to stare at the living room where the desperate, frail call is coming from, fingertips pressing against her lips to stifle a grin. ' You really put the fear of God into him! Last time he was just confused by the time you were leaving. '

   no answer from the cobalt-haired fellow on the open door, almost on his way: just a mischievous smile, a tilt of his head, and a better tucking of the bottle under his arm.

   she eyes it curiously, an identical tilt of her head mimicking his. ' Not that it's my business, but- why do you always steal one of his bottles? '

   a small chuckle does come out of him. ' It's fine to ask. Let's say that I have... a friend that really enjoys it. And it's not like the doctor will drink or miss any of this. It's less bottles for you to clean, ' he teases, the ghost of a smile on his lips.

   ' Oh, shush, you! ' a swat over his bare arm makes him laugh harder. ' Being his personal maid is a favor I'm doing to you- plus! I'm curious if you'll end up killing him, one day. The least you can do is damn right make things easier for me! '

   ' Okay, okay, ' hands are lifted in playful surrender, ' I will do just that. See you, and thank you very much for your help. '

   after a scoff from Melany, the door slowly closes behind him, his shadow being thrown clear across the living room.

   and, for just a moment, Kaeya Alberich towered tall as a king.

ITEM OBTAINED: The Bushmills '84: 'Even Dead Men Can Sing!' Dark Oath Single Malt Whiskey A collector's item originating from a far away planet, worth thousands of credits if left unopened. It is said that the punch it packs could reanimate a corpse and make it sing an old ballad as an ode to the taste- this is precisely what is named after. There are currently only 6 bottles scattered across the galaxy- one of which purchased by the famous doctor and biologist Edward Wuchlock, for the modest price of ████,███ credits.

[cenvast]

hi hi! i stumbled across ur kabru x toshiro stuff when browsing one of their tags and im sooo hooked now after reading ur explanation post that i gave ur fanfic a read too, love it!! ur story and posts about them made me have some questions, i hope its not too much!

the fanfic mentioned kabru in a kurta when toshiro thinks about their hypothetical wedding. is there a certain type of wedding u imagine them having?

on the same note: would they end up having one? or would they rather stick with a close relationship?

would they think about adoption? is their statuses keep them from adopting because they would be busy?

would toshiro notice kabru spiraling over the thought of utaya and what happened?

srry if this is a lot, i just love this pairing now!

Tysm for reading my writing!! I'm so honored that I got you into Kabshiro <3 And dw, I'm more than willing to answer any questions about my kabshiro meta or "debts and delusions" (this fic is 18+/nsfw)! The fic is a capsule of many of my dunmeshi hcs, so I can always expand on it hehe

I'll put my answers under the cut and divide them into sections for readability!

On Marriage

I think since both of Kabru and Toshiro had traumatic upbringings, they'd be less inclined to get married or have kids quickly, but they would eventually get married.

From my understanding, feudal Japan normalized sexual relationships between samurai, but marriage was an arranged political move between a man and a woman, at least for the upper classes. Toshiro understands marriage as potentially romantic, given his interactions with Falin, but since he lacks models of same-sex marriage, pursuing marriage with Kabru would stump him at first. I think Laios and the others would clue him in that marriage can literally be whatever he and Kabru want it to be, and after a while, he'd make his peace with that.

When he becomes more secure in their relationship, he wouldn't feel the need to marry Kabru out of insecurity anymore. He would continue fantasizing about the domesticity and commitment of it all. He'd also have to work through his trauma-based fear that he'll cheat on his spouse before being willing to marry Kabru.

Toshiro would propose at around year five of their relationship. He'd recognize that he can't imagine a life without Kabru and that all the best things in his life are because he took the initiative to hold onto and voice what's (and who's) important to him. Laios would be a large contributor in encouraging their marriage with his constant reassurances of "Yes, I'll marry you two in Melini :D." Because romantic proposals weren't really a thing in feudal Japan, Toshiro's proposal would be a very agonized-over question — but just a question — he poses to Kabru in private.

I like the idea of Kabru and Toshiro attending Marcille and Falin's wedding, and their marriage being the catalyst for Toshiro deciding that he needs to marry Kabru immediately. Kabru would sense what was going on with Toshiro but give him time to approach him on his own. Out of the two of them, Kabru would be more content with not officially recognizing their relationship via marriage, but he'd still be very excited to marry Toshiro and giddy over the fact that Toshiro wants to marry him.

I imagine their wedding would be a combination of customs from Utaya and Wa and elven customs. Kabru would want to honor his mother and his hometown, and Milsiril would probably want some elven elements. The Wa customs are self-explanatory from Toshiro's end. They'd hold it in Melini with Laios officiating. I also think Toshiro would cry at their wedding because he'd be a little more healed from thinking that crying is unmanly and he'd be overwhelmed by Kabru /pos.

Here's the excerpt from the fic that you referenced:

In Toshiro's wedding fantasy, I included elements from both Indian and Japanese wedding customs. According to my quick research (which could definitely be off, so please correct me if needed), silk and/or embroidered kurtas are considered appropriate wedding attire, and Indian weddings generally involve a lot of dancing. The sea bream, red rice, and daifuku are foods traditionally eaten at Japanese weddings. There's more specificity for the Japanese customs since it's from Toshiro's POV, and in this scene, he's drawing the Indian wedding elements from conversations he's had with Kabru. Obligatory moment of silence for how ridiculous they are for discussing their cultural wedding customs while pretending like they aren't down horrendous for each other 😭

On Children

Toshiro

Prior to being with Kabru, Toshiro expected to have children; he thought he'd inherit his father's position and produce an heir. But he's always been terrified by the idea of actually raising a child because all his parental figures — his father, his mother, and Maizuru — failed spectacularly in raising him. Right after canon, he wouldn't be able to articulate where they went wrong because he's still repressing most of it, but he knows that his father's treatment of him as a failed investment or discarded amusement did not benefit him. Likewise, his mother's neglect and Maizuru's overbearing, terrifying parenting style, coupled with her expectations that he'd take his father's position one day, were not ideal.

If pinned down about it, he'd say that he'd want his child to be raised with proper emotional support — for them to feel loved unconditionally rather than valued for any position they may eventually take up, but overall, he feels ill-equipped to raise a child. Since Kabru would never pressure him into having children, Toshiro would realize that having children is an unwanted expectation his family and society placed on him. After realizing this, up until maybe his forties, he wouldn't even consider having children again because he'd fear traumatizing them like his parental figures traumatized him, and more importantly, he'd be content with his life as it is.

Kabru

By the end of canon, I don't think Kabru has had the mental space to consider having children. He'd be of the mindset that bringing a child into an unjust world would be irresponsible, especially if he's yet to accomplish his goals of equality between the races and sealing off the dungeons. But in his position as Laios' advisor, he'd feel more empowered to improve their world and raise a child in it.

However, if someone seriously approached him about having children with Toshiro, Kabru would probably have a traumatic episode. His associations with having children of his own are:

His trauma regarding monsters eating his mother and other children from Utaya

Milsiril as his adoptive mother and her inability to fully understand and meet his emotional needs due to not conceptualizing short-lived races as equals and her career rooted in elven imperialism (Sidenote: Milsiril does push back against the societal position she's been placed in, and she raised Kabru with good intentions, but impact > intent. She was still raised in elven society and an active participant in imperialism for many years)

The elves' horrible, dehumanizing treatment of Rin

The thought of having children would send him into a panic because he'd fear being killed by monsters and unable to care for his children, his children being killed by monsters, his children being mistreated by those more powerful than him, and being an unsatisfactory parent to them. Not all of his fears would be rational since he lives in Melini where Laios is a living monster repellent. But since he hasn't unpacked all of his trauma, these thoughts would come up.

After processing more of his trauma, Kabru in his thirties would be open to having children if Toshiro wanted them, but since Toshiro doesn't, it likely wouldn't happen.

If we fast forward to their forties or fifties, that's when Kabru and Toshiro might consider raising a kid. Their lives are stable. They've unpacked a lot of their childhood traumas. They have a support network and a reliable method of travel between their homes. They could do it. I still don't think they'd feel the need to have children, but if a child tumbled into their laps (I'm thinking of how Izutsumi appeared for the main party), they'd have a long, serious discussion about it and ultimately decide to raise them. Similar to Izutsumi, I could see them raising an older kid.

TL;DR: I don't think Kabshiro would adopt/have children, but after they hit middle-age, if a child fell into their lives, they would raise them.

On Utaya

I'm so glad you asked about Utaya because I wish I'd been able to explore Kabru's trauma more in "debts and delusions." He deserves an in-depth analysis of his past and to begin healing from it.

The short answer is: yes, Toshiro would definitely notice Kabru's trauma surrounding Utaya. Toshiro is fairly observant, Kabru's already opened up to him about what happened in Utaya, and when Kabru's trauma manifests outwardly, it's actually not very subtle, so it's a little shocking more people haven't tried to support him through it before. Or maybe it's unsurprising since he tries very hard to project being emotionally secure and stable.

The next step in Kabru's arc is beginning to heal from Utaya. Now that he and Toshiro have established what their relationship is and can correspond and visit each other regularly, Toshiro would have the emotional bandwidth to address Kabru's panic and nightmares and aim to support him by talking with him and encouraging him to lean on him. He'd want to return the favor of Kabru supporting him through his difficult times. He'd also feel guilty for complaining about his concerns over Falin, considering everything Kabru has gone through, but that guilt and negative tendency towards comparison could be something Toshiro works out with his other friends.

After learning to depend more on Toshiro and hopefully, on his other friends, Kabru would recognize that he should take his own advice about voicing one's wants and needs. He'd eventually have an honest conversation with Laios about his feelings on eating monsters and where those feelings come from, and that would open Laios up as another person he can be emotionally open with about his past. Because I am a strong believer in Kabru and Marcille as friends post-canon, she'd also be another person for him to lean on. Her perspective as a half-elf would be valuable for both of them. (Unrelated, but I also strongly believe in Kabru helping Marcille let go of her comphet.)

I'd also hope that with time, Kabru would realize how he's taken Rin for granted. They could actually talk about her feelings for him and unpack their traumatic upbringings together. Talking with Rin would probably be the most healing interaction for him, but it'd take a lot of work on his part. He'd have to apologize to her for being sexist, rebuild their trust after years of him shutting her out emotionally, and uncover the most difficult parts of his past with her, a friend who knows it intimately. Realistically, Rin would be willing to support him even without an apology because she suffers more than Jesus, but for the sake of her sanity and mine, he should definitely apologize to her first.

If there was ever to be a sequel to "debts and delusions," it would focus on Kabru and his healing!

₍ᐢ. .ᐢ₎ ₊˚⊹♡

Thank you so much for sending this ask! I'm always willing to yap about DunMeshi and/or my writing. If you have any of other thoughts on the fic, hcs, or more questions, feel free to send them my way <3

[tearfest]

ㅤㅤpenelope rather enjoyed playing the role of doting step-mother, whether her disgruntled step-son appreciated it or not. it must be weird, though — being close to age with your new step-mother than your own father was. and the fact that she was so hot definitely mustn't help. but she didn't really care all that much; marrying rich had left the thirty-one year old with nothing but time on her hands, and what better way than to pass it than becoming a hockey mom? and it definitely didn't hurt that she'd found herself some sweet, new eye candy.

ㅤㅤcurves were hugged by a leopard print juicy couture tracksuit that she'd taken in herself, having cinched in the bottoms and cropped the tight and half unzipped jacket. the black lacy frill of her bra peeked out from behind the now visible cropped white tee, an outfit specifically picked to try and attract wesley's attention. even the visible band of her thong made visible by the low rise waistband of her tracksuit bottoms, hips swaying when she entered the locker room that she'd so conveniently left her newest flip phone behind in. whoopsies.

ㅤㅤ" jake? " she called out, fully aware of the fact that he'd already left for food with a majority of the team. " have you seen my— oh, wesley. " cue the faux surprise as she gazed up at him with her siren eyes. " i thought you'd already headed home. have you seen jake around? " one hand held at the leather strap of her purse, the other coming to rest against his jersey as she tilted her head up at him, unable to mask her smile as the diamond in her wedding ring glinted on his chest. " i've lost my phone. you wouldn't be a doll and give me a helping hand, would you? you're just so good with them on the ice. "

closed starter for @velvetrogue.

[waterfallofspace]

9, 42, and 45 for a sick, sneezy vash please, if that’s okay? 😄

Thank you for the ask, of course that's okay!! (it does feature a hint of W/olfwood action too, just a smiiidge, hope that's alright hehe~ It's also a V/ashwood story since, well, I figured that would be alright~!) 1.9k words, prompts 9, 42, and 45, story under cut! 9. “You’re trembling.”  42. “Baby, you’re all sniffly.”  45. “Your nose is literally twitching.” (Brief mentions of anxiety just incase anyone doesn't like that!)

~~~~~~~

“hn’chh-! hh’keshh-! ‘Scuse me, sorry.”

“I told ya, no need for the ‘pologies.” 

“Y- you did but it’s a hahh... habit. hek’ishh-! Sor-”

A dark look from Wolfwood cuts off the apology, Vash being reduced to stuttering out some nonsensical syllables in his effort to recover. His leg is still, but there’s constant movement in his hands as they attempt to find something to grab onto. Anxiety was never a stranger to the man, despite apparent lack of concern for his own safety most of the time.  

The town they find themselves in doesn’t have a motel, which isn’t that unique in these parts. They’ve grown quite used to sharing a room, or even just a bed, wherever they could find one. For instance, they’re currently sharing a guest room above the town bar. Not an awful crashpad, a couch, nice radio, their own bathroom. 

It’s secluded from the rest of the bar too, giving them a bit of privacy. Sliding onto the bed, Wolfwood motions for Vash to join him. Surprise crosses his sharp features as the request is denied. Instead, Vash points himself towards the couch, offering a wave over his shoulder as he spins away. ‘Well that’s new…’ 

“What, suddenly too good to share a bed with me, Blondie?”

“Wh- what? No, not at all! I just… I figured you’d- en’chh-! ih’tshhie-! Excuse me, sorry. Where was I..? Oh right, m- maybe you’d want it to yourself this time and I don’t mind t- taking the couch.”

“‘Cause of your cold? I don’t care, now get over here.”

“Because of my- what? I’m… I’m not sick?” 

Wolfwood doesn’t reply, instead he lets the uncomfortable silence settle over the room as he watches Vash. ‘Either he’s playing dumb, and doesn’t want to admit it, or the needle noggin really didn’t notice. Gotta know which before I make my move.’ Under the weight of tension starting to spread through the air, Vash gives a heavy sigh. The breath comes out shaky as his body vibrates, hands starting to rub his arms.

“You’re literally trembling. You tryna tell me that ain’t shivers?”

“It’s not! Well okay… I mean it is shivering, but not from sickness, it’s just cold in here, that’s all! ennchh-! Sorry, excuse me.”

The sneeze brings a fresh round of shudders as Wolfwood raises a brow at the display. ‘So denial it is then. If it was cold in ‘ere I’d’ve noticed long before him.’ A blessing almost slips out, but that’ll just lead to a new round of apologies. Right now it’s more important to get an admittance and go from there.

“Blondie, we’re in a fuckin’ desert. It’s not cold anywhere.” 

“W- well they must have the air on! Or… or something… probably the air, b- because it’s so hot out, so they uh… they want it to be cool indoors.”

“Guess I should go ask ‘em to turn it off-”

“Hey- wait no, uh… it’s- it’s actually starting to uh… warm up..? D- don’t bother them. hk’ishiee-! Sorry. They let us stay here, I don’t- I mean we don’t want to be a burden on them-”

A hint of pride starts to break through Wolfwood’s mind as he grins. ‘And there it is. Gotcha.’ Vash has always been hesitant to be a burden. Not a horrible mindset to have for most people, ‘Hell, a few could use more of it’. The problem is that his definition of ‘burden’ includes things such as eating, sleeping, breathing, or simply existing when he’s not actively helping in some way. 

Sickness was high on his list of ‘things that make me a burden on everyone I come in contact with’, despite Wolfwood’s constant reminders that he doesn’t mind. However, there is something above it, and that’s ‘bothering someone else’, especially when it’s for a made up reason. Given the choice between admitting sickness or waking the bartender to ask them to turn off the ‘air’ that doesn’t exist, well…

“-Okay fine. I might be… a little bit sick… but- hh’ishh’iee-! hehh- en’chhh-! heh’kshh’iew-!” 

“Blessin’”

“Thank you, sorry, it’s really not that bad!”

“Then get in bed ‘fore it gets worse.” 

“I uh… I really don’t think that’s-”

“I’ll even read from the book I’ve been finishin’. But that's a limited time offer, Blondie. Goin’ once, goin’ twice-” 

Before he can start the next word, Vash hurls himself towards the bed, an excited set of vibrations starting to replace the shivers. Wolfwood chuckles, lifting the blanket from his legs to wrap it around Vash, giving his shoulders a light squeeze. In response the huddled form leans into his lap, head resting against his chest. 

“Ready?”

“Yehh… yep!” 

“Alright. The second reason he realized she was gone was from the smell. The air had lost a sweetness. One he’d grown so used to he hardly recognized it anymore. That is, until it was gone. -----” 

Wolfwood continues reading, his focus being drawn away from the world once more. ‘Would’ve thought romance books were more Blondie’s thing, but… well… after he gave me that one about the garden love story… I guess I could understand the appeal… But only because Vash likes it when I read them. That’s all.’ No one else can hear him, but Wolfwood still feels the need to justify the surge of emotion starting to creep through his heart. 

Maybe it was the fact Vash had given him them. Maybe it was the fact that blondie was gazing up with a hazy adoration as each word leaves his throat. Doesn’t really matter why. All that matters is how the words seem to glide off the page, through his deep voice to dance around their heads, playing out each scene as he reads them. This sensation is short lived though, as soon he feels himself snapping back to the bedroom where a soft sound has begun.

“hkk-! guhh…” 

“Brushing the branches from his uh… from his face, he starts to cut through the dense forest.”

“heHh-! hhh… Snnff-”

“T- the branches, oh wait read that already, ah here we go. The dense forest. Eyes seem to be peering at him through the-”

“hahHhh- snff- hkIH-! hehh…”

“Through the, uh, the-”

“hhih-!”

“Christ, Blondie. Just sneeze already.” 

Vash’s head pops out from its blanket cocoon against Wolfwood’s chest, a pink tint spread across his cheeks that has nothing to do with his cold. Bringing up a single finger to lightly rub his nose, Vash tries to offer a sincere smile. What instead crosses his face is a look that just screams itchy. Wolfwood feels a sympathy tickle through his own nose. 

“Wh- what?”

“Your nose is literally twitching. You’re makin’ me itchy from the look of it. Jus’ sneeze, it’s okay. I’ll even pause my readin’.” 

“I- I don’t… okay yehh… yes I do- I’m so sorry ehH-!”

“Don’t ‘pologize. Nothin’ to be ‘shamed of.”

“eH’tmmfshh-! hh’mmshhii-! hk’ishh’ieee-!” 

He attempts to muffle the first two into his hand, the third escaping with a pitch that sounds incredibly unsatisfying. ‘No wonder he always has these long drawn out fits. Those sound like they do nothin’ to relieve the itch.’ Pausing his analysis, Wolfwood leans towards the nightstand, grabbing a handful of tissues and pressing them into Vash’s unused hand. 

A timid smile meets the gesture as Vash brings them to his nose, humming a sigh. The action seems to bring a new level of irritation, his breath snaring as the tissues are gripped tighter. It teases him for a minute, Wolfwood choking back a laugh at the whimper the tissues barely muffle. Finally, after what seems like a lifetime, a desperate “hnnchh-! ih’tishiee-! keshh’ii-!” break through. Wolfwood lets a knuckle crush his own nose, sympathy waves running through it again.

“Blessin’.” 

“Thanks. Sor-”

“You’re only welcome if you don’t finish that apology.” 

“-So are you gonna keep reading..? hih’ishhiee-! hk’ieshh-! Excuse me.”

“Blessin’s. Good save, Blondie. Remind me where we were?”

“Eyes in the- eh’kshhiee-! forest.”

“Blessin’, alright. So- wait… hold on a sec.”

Wolfwood lets the book rest on his knees, staring up through his sunglasses at the ceiling. Vash attempts to follow his gaze, but can’t notice anything worth staring at. Deciding to ask, Vash leans up to meet his eyes. Hardly a noise escapes before Wolfwood holds up a finger to silence him, tilting his sunglasses down and blinking through the brightness. 

“huh’yIEZzshh’oo-! ai’GNZSHhh’oo-! Whew, that’s better.” 

“Oh- bless you! Did- did I get-”

“No you didn' get me sick. My immune system ain’t nearly as fragile as yours.”

“Hey! Well then, is- hh’tieshh’ii-! Excuse me. Is something bothering you?”

“Nah, jus’ a tickle. Think it was ‘cause of the itchy look you were wearin’.”

“Oh, okay! S- sorry…”

“Nothin’ to be sorry for, Blondie. Now, back to the book?"

"Yes!"

"Eyes seem to be peering at him through the darkness. Watching his every step, daring him to come closer. Daring him to betray his heart alongside his kingdom. What did they know? Surely not his heart. That was something that couldn’t be known by anyone, not after her. ------.” 

Wolfwood feels the words flow from him once more, almost before his eyes can trace their forms on the page. Figures begin their dance, chasing each other in beautiful patterns through the humid air. The only thing pulling him from the daydream that he finds himself in far too often with Vash is the sound of constant sniffles. 

There is an outright refusal to address the noises, so instead Wolfwood continues reading, making it through another two chapters before giving in and setting the book back down. Vash looks up with an innocent gaze, absentmindedly rubbing his palm against his nose as another sniff breaks free.

“Baby, you’re all sniffly. You can blow your nose.”

The pet name gets the reaction it was meant to, Vash suddenly laser focused on Wolfwood’s every word. ‘Alright, easy now with this next part. He’s jus’ about there, gotta be delicate. Which… has never really been my strong suit.’ There’s a hint of unease beneath Vash’s smile, palm crushing against his face again. 

“I know you’re sick, Vash. You told me that earlier. So you can drop the ruse.” 

“We- well…”

“It’s just us.” 

Vash flushes as Wolfwood passes him another handful of tissues, but brings them to his nose anyways. He turns away, ever mindful of others, and blows a couple times. The first seems unsuccessful, but by the third he manages to get a semblance of airflow through his sinuses. 

Giving a heady sigh of relief, Vash turns back to Wolfwood, mouth open as if to form words. He never gets the chance, the next breath through his sensitive nasal passages bringing his hands up to his face by instinct. Wolfwood chuckles, letting a hand drop to rub his back through the fit. 

“hH’ieshh’ie-! keshhh’iee-! hihh- tnnshhii-! Ih’tieshhiee-!”

“Blessin’s. Heh, you’re awfully adorable at times, Blondie.”

“I am no- heH’ishh-! hk’ishh-! tieshh’iee-! not!” 

Humming out another laugh, Wolfwood brushes the hair from Vash’s warm skin, planting a kiss on his forehead. Vash responds with a sigh, airy and light, before he sinks back into Wolfwood’s chest, wrapping himself deeper into the blanket. A smirk crosses Wolfwood’s face, ‘Not cute, huh?’ before he lifts the book once more.

There, in the safety of Wolfwood’s embrace, Vash finds himself drifting off to sleep, figures dancing through his mind as the deep voice fades off into a peaceful darkness.

[wraithsoutlaws]

i found the old cc sliders for the first fem v i made into an actual oc i dont remember much about her besides that she was an ex-valentino roller derby girl who was raised by padre.....should i remake her on pc?

[h8fuckk]

closed starter | @lordgortrash

The streets of Baldur’s Gate are quieter than usual as the succubus approaches the grand estate. Shadows cling to the corners of the city like lurking memories, and the weight of her own failures presses heavier with each step. The stone path leading to Gortash’s domain feels endless, each footfall punctuated by the ache of her unresolved longing and the gnawing terror of what she is about to do. Her thoughts race, dark and stormy as the sky that looms overhead, full of threats she can neither predict nor avoid. Weeks have passed since she last saw Gortash, since he cast her out with a fury that sent a chill through her —— and a shame she hasn’t been able to shake since.

She had failed her patron. Her father——ugh, that fucking bastard. Failed him by not killing Gortash when she had the chance, and now? Well, she either needs a miracle or Gortash’s help and the two are practically one and the same.

Nepharia stops a few paces from the towering door, her breath shallow, her heart a reckless thrum in her chest. She hates being here, hates the sensation of vulnerability coiling in her gut like some venomous thing. She had walked these streets with the confidence of a predator, but now? Now she stands before Gortash’s gates with the bitter taste of defeat on her tongue. She hates that too ——— that he had made her feel something she couldn’t define, something that had shattered her resolve when she was so close to ending him. She had wanted to sink her claws into him, claim his soul as her own, deliver it to her patron and be rid of this mess.

But she hadn’t. She couldn’t.

Her clawed fists tighten at her sides as she watches the Steel Watcher, its cold, unblinking gaze locked on her, waiting. She could almost feel Gortash’s eyes through it —— studying her from the safety of wherever he watched, probably considering whether he should order it to tear her apart where she stands. Would he? She wonders. Does he still want me dead? A flicker of fear runs down her spine at the thought, but she crushes it quickly. She can’t afford to be afraid —— not of him. Not now.

With a slow, deliberate motion, she reaches into her bloodied cloak ( still damp with the bhaalspawn’s gore ) and pulls free the two Netherstones —— Orin’s and Ketheric’s. The weight of them is strange in her hands, a terrible power she feels thrumming beneath her skin. Power enough to stand against Zymimor? Power that could grant her the freedom she’s always craved. She holds them up to the Steel Watcher, the dim light from the estate casting a faint glint over the stones’ dark surfaces.

This is her offering. Her truce.

Nepharia swallows her pride, though it feels like swallowing glass, sharp and jagged in her throat. She waits, eyes narrowing in defiance even though desperation gnaws at her bones. She wonders if Gortash will laugh at her —— if he’ll even open the door at all. Maybe he’ll leave her to rot in the shadow of his estate, let the cold take her, or worse —— send her crawling back to her father in chains.

Damned and powerless, forever bound to the Abyss.

She suppresses a shudder and forces herself to stand taller, the Netherstones held steady before her. She has no choice but to come back to him now. She’s betrayed everyone else. Stolen the artefact, left her companions to whatever fate the Absolute has in store for them. There’s no one left for her to turn to, no one who could understand her hunger for freedom, for power, like Gortash. If he doesn’t take her in, if he doesn’t listen to what she has to offer, then she has nothing. And nothing terrifies her more than being alone with the crushing weight of her failures.