#this new comeback is wreaking havoc on me

[a-vampire-culturelover]

An Zed x Mariska Lollipop chainsaw Fanfic

Zed was.. less than happy about his death. More or less that he had ended up in Rotten World.

His dad always yelled at him if that he kept up his “Abhorrent language and cutting up the poor frogs under the porch stairs he’d go to hell”, although he usually ignored them or told them to piss off. If anything he was beginning to think this was less of a punishment and more of a reward; So what if he did some stupid shit to get here? That’s not gonna stop him from having a bit of fun.

Going around Rotten World and causing chaos in his Afterlife was probably the best thing to have happened to him since he died, and frankly he couldn’t wait for his piece of shit dad and deadbeat mother to end up down here and have some fun payback.

And yet even while he was busy cussing out to his hearts content and wreaking havoc on other degenerates in Rotten World, he couldn’t help but admit he felt.. Lonely.

One day, after he had been running from his latest stunt of breaking some demon’s car window and pissing in it, he noticed someone sat atop a pile of bodies simply just playing an instrument. He didn’t know what it was called, but it sure as hell didn’t look like anything he ever played; seemed more peaceful than his usual irritably loud taste in music. Feeling a bit daring he decided to climb atop it and talk to her, wondering how anyone down here could possibly take the time to chill out instead of having the time of their lives being chaotic bastards. The lady didn't seem to even notice him until he just barely made it atop the pile, trying desperately not to tumble off due to one misstep on some poor corpse's face. Upon closer inspection, he noticed she was playing a.. See-tar? Sitar? Whatever, he just remembered they were something some hippie dork from high school would play after the last class by a bushel of trees on campus, he remembered fondly putting thumbtacks in his instrument case an evening prior to his untimely death. Finally, as he sat down just a little bit behind her, barely on the edge of the corpse pile, he gained the courage to speak. "Hey Hippie Dippie Dumbass." That seemed to get her attention, as she shifted focus from her instrument to him. He didn't notice before, but she looked stitched up, like she'd gotten mauled by a Bear that snorted a whole suitcase full of cocaine; contrary to that, she seemed to look very mellow in comparison to her grotesque stitching and scars, sporting clothes that definitely fit Zed's hippie remarks towards her. She looked to him and simply giggled, earning a faint blush from Zed's dead face. "Fuck you laughing at Flower bitch?" He muttered, as she continued to laugh for quite a while, to a point Zed wondered why he even climbed up a whole pile of corpses to talk to some Hippie Girl. "Sorry, I just can’t help but laugh at your look! It’s sick, little punk!” Zed couldn’t tell if she was teasing him or not, but nonetheless he was flustered by it. Trying to muster words to make a proper comeback, he stuttered and failed to much to his own chagrin. As he muttered angrily to himself he sat down, this new stranger giving him some light pats on his back for encouragement.

“There there, little punk-“

“stop calling me little punk!”

“can’t call you anything arose if I don’t know your name, little punk!”

“its Zed, geez!”

“Name’s Mariska, lord of peace and eternity.. and The Rot~”

Zed was starting to warm up to ‘Mariska’, especially seeing as she wasn’t all peace and harmony as her hippie flower-munching demeanor seemed.

“How come your down here, Flower Bitch?”

“I guess when you dabble in mushrooms and aspiring to see the beyond like I do, you get on the bad side of the flow of life and death..”

“…What?”

“And what brings you here to Rotten World, Zed? Here to chill and rot for eternity like the rest of us?”

Zed..hesitated, before telling her

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

Mariska seemed content with that, understanding it wasn’t her place to pry for information from some new person who didn’t seem to want to look back on their past. After all, if they’re dead and gone in the realm of the living, surely the world of Rottenness is their future!

“I’m gonna go smash some stuff and swear at demons, you wanna come with Queen of the Damn Pansies?” Zed offered his hand as he got up, wondering what weird way to go down the corpse pile and make a grand exit.

“I love pansies, Little Punk!” Mariska giggled as she took his hand, the two escorting themselves down the corpse pile to have a little fun elsewhere.

“I told you my name’s not Little Punk. Its Zed.”

“Sure thing, blooming phlox of the night.”

“..That’s better.”

And with that, the two went off on their own, climbing the ranks and becoming Dark Purveyors, meeting others like them along the way. Despite that, the two’s friendship never faltered, always staying strong despite their grandeur differences.

[roguedoodles]

hi rogue!! i know you normally write/reply to things for morpheus, but i just saw the original scarface movie from the 30s and i cant stop thinking about mobster!corinthian as a concept and NEEDED to tell someone

just think about it! its almost the perfect setting for him given that dream is imprisoned in 1916 and the mob really kicks up around prohibition only 4 years later, and that mixed with the corinthian being freshly unleashed to wreak chaos and havoc on the waking world??? would he kind of just watch and laugh with a glass of wine in the distance? or would he get right in the trenches, maybe even work as a right hand to a mob boss for a lower profile but easy kills and cash??? honestly the possibilities just have me like 😵‍💫

I AM UNWELL AND FERAL WITH THIS AND I LOVE ALL OF THE SANDMAN CAST BRING ME EVERYTHING

God okay Corinthian definitely has mob boss vibes who does all the killings himself. Like sure he has his henchman but they do the ‘boring’ stuff like selling and getting the alcohol (he would one hundred percent own a bar during the prohibition) while Corinthian is killing any and all competition and any who dared to double cross him

Now if we go in the fic realm you could be the newest server at his bar (a new hire he doesn’t know about, the bar is technically his business but doesn’t have a lot of oversight/care as long as money flows he’s happy) and he stumbles in one night after a recent ‘mission’ with blood covering his gloved hands and asks for a drink only to see you and he just becomes fascinated with you

OR

You are the newest competition owning your own bar and it’s a love/hate relationship between the two of you. He tries to buy your bar, or get you to work for him instead but you flat out refuse so it’s a lot of sabotaging each other and very much ‘knives at each other’s throat/ I’ll kill you but if anyone else hurts you I’ll kill them’

OR

You become his new right hand man/bodyguard and are always by his side and protect him (even tho he doesn’t really need it) and maybe you take a bullet for him and he realizes how much he relies on you and needs you (aka he goes on a killing spree for those who hurt you only to comeback and care for you)

ORRRRRR

Corinthian is your new hired hand and you’re the mob boss!!!! He does all your dirty work and enjoys it immensely but not as much as he enjoys playing and teasing you

Whoops looks like I had a lot more ideas than I thought 😂

[enchantingkryptoniteheart-blog]

~The Best of Intentions~

Chapter 10

“Wha' do you call this stuff again?" Mistlynn hiccupped as she took another big gulp of her fizzy beverage.

"That would be apple cider my sweet friend." Kili grinned. "I figured you would appreciate that more so than the stout ale."

"It'll git er tipsy quicker too ya jackanape!" Mistlynn and the prince's jumped in surprise at the sound of Dwalin's rough brogue.

There beside him stood some of the other dwarves she had met, though briefly, in the rather uncomfortable scene in the throne room. She tried to wipe that memory from her mind, and now they were here to ruin her attempt of doing so.

"I am a fully grown dam, Master Dwalin." Mistlynn sniffed contemptuously, raising her eyebrows challengingly. "I can drink whatever I damn well please."

Dwalin snorted through his nose as he looked down at her, returning her challenging glare. Bofur, Bifur, Gloin and Nori looked amongst themselves while snickering, not hiding the fact they were all in on some joke well known amongst them.

"Fiery lass aren't ya?" The one with the winged hat laughed jovially. "I apologize we have not been properly introduced for you were too busy wreaking havoc the last time we saw each other. I am Bofur, and this is my dear cousin Bifur. He only speaks our tongue, battle injury and all. And these charming fellows with me are Gloin, Nori and last but not least Dwalin."

Mistlynn smirked, liking the dwarf immediately. No one could have a smile like that and be untrustworthy. She took his offered hand and shook it heartily, while nodding respectfully to the other Dwarrow's, that were still looking at her with ill-concealed mirth. "The pleasure is all mine, master dwarves. Will you be joining our table?"

"Of course, they will be." Kili grinned. "Our esteemed comrades would be daft to forfeit the fun table."

Nori snorted "Oh I wouldn't be too sure of that my darling princeling. It all depends on the drink!"

"Ignore him lass." Bofur grinned as he took a seat directly across from Mistlynn. "What are you enjoying there if you don't mind me asking?"

MIstlynn smiled. "Apple cider." She took another drink then smacked her lips. "Nice and fuzzy."

"Fuzzy?" Dwalin grunted, looking at her with an odd expression.

"She's never had spirits before this!" Fili smirked. "You should've seen her expression after her first sip of ale. Her eyes nearly popped out of her head. So, we figured she would enjoy the cider more."

Gloin and Nori chuckled, picking up their mugs that were placed in front of them and raising them in Mistlynn's direction. "To the lass's first drink!" Nori winked.

"May it be the first of many in our charming company." Bofur cheered, holding his up as well, cueing them all to down the contents of their tankards in one go, much to Mistlynn's delight. Her eyes sparkled merrily as she returned their salute and finished off hers.

A few hours passed, conversation and drink flowed effortlessly. Mistlynn had warmed up significantly with the new members of their table, even Dwalin cracked a smile with her quick and witty comebacks to Bofur and the prince's nonstop teasing.

"Tell me, if it is constant winter and you all don't possess one drop of alcohol between the lots of you how do you stay warm at night?" Bofur's eyes sparkled with mischief, grinning over the top of his tankard.

Mistlynn snorted in her own tankard "Oh we have ways Master Bofur that don't require any help other than stamina, a hearty intake of water and some nice furs."

The table was filled with snorts and loud guffaws as Bofur slapped the table, grinning wildly.

"Spitfire lass." Gloin roared merrily while slapping Dwalin on the back while he snickered, his shoulders shaking with silent mirth.

Mistlynn giggled, pleased with the outcome of her somewhat tipsy shenanigans. She liked being tipsy, or fuzzy as she so fondly described it. These dwarves she originally found intimidating, amused her thoroughly as she now greatly enjoyed their company. All previous worries of the past few weeks were forgotten; she found herself in the company of friends she had never thought capable of having.

"Aww you are a breath of fresh air, am I right cousin?" Bofur chuckled, as he looked at Bifur. Bifur nodded eagerly and grunted animatedly as he spoke through signing.

Mistlynn, not catching on sooner that he signed, gasped with delight, and pushed her tankard away. She began signing towards Bifur, who's eyes in turn grew wide with excitement and signed quicky with a response. Mistlynn's laugh was a beautiful sound to all of them as she held a very lively conversation with Bifur. The others looked at her with even more fondness and respect, they had never seen a dwarrowdam communicate with Bifur before, let alone not even seem to notice the axe blade that was still lodged in his skull, partially covered with his greying hair.

"I didn't know you could communicate with signing so well." Fili smiled at her, speaking for the rest of the table.

"It is taught to us as dwarflings. It is imperative for us to communicate effectively and silently at times, especially when we are hunting. Is it not taught amongst your clans?"

"Well, for the most part we are though it is not required of the dwarrowdam's and most do not show interest in learning it. They focus on other things more driven towards running a household or profession."

Mistlynn's smile faded slightly, as she signed something that looked like a question to Bifur. He smiled with a touch of melancholy and shook his head and signing a simple reply. Mistlynn shook her head and stood up, abruptly pushing her chair back. She steadied herself for a moment, the room slightly moving about as she stood on tingling legs and she walked over to Bifur, much to everyone's surprise.

"Well, I'll announce to everyone in this pub that I think you are a handsome warrior of a dwarf, and any dam should feel honored to have you as their partner in life." She grabbed his face and gave him an energetic peck on his cheek. "You should be proud you carry with you the signs of your strength and bravery. Any dam to say otherwise is not worth your time or effort."

Tears formed in his eyes, and he patted her hand that was still on his cheek fondly. The friends all cheered, raising their tankards in agreement. "Well said lass! A worthy warrior of any lass indeed." Dwalin, much to her surprise spoke in agreement, obviously moved by seeing his dear friend, usually so strong yet quiet about his injury, moved nearly to tears.

Mistlynn moved back to her seat, using the table to steady her until she sat back down. "In my clan, it is the warriors our women fight over, the more scars and battle wounds the better! Otherwise, you're not seen as ready to be wed and have a family. One must be strong to ensure a family's survival. You would be fought over Bifur, I would even wager several would fight for the honor of being your wife." Bifur's eyes twinkled, as he looked down shyly at his tankard before taking a drink.

"It's strange how similar yet different our clans are." Kili mused. "You're so secretive about your people, yet with each little piece of insight you give makes me eager to learn more."

Mistlynn raised her eyebrow as she held up her tankard to the maiden tasked with refilling drinks. "I am selective of the information I give for I do not trust you and your brother to not be agents seeking information for the benefit of your king, my dear princely friend."

Kili gasped, as if hurt while Fili stuck out his bottom lip petulantly. "You wound us Mist. We are your friends first and foremost."

Nori laughed. "If our dear king wanted to know about your kingdom, he would be asking you himself."

"Speaking of our King, when is he to be joining us?" Gloin asked nonchalantly.

No one missed it when Mistlynn, mid gulp sputtered into her cup, coughing as she choked on her fizzy drink. They all smirked, looking at each other knowingly.

"Well, 'e informed me tha 'e would be join'n us 'ere after 'is last council meetin. Trade routes an the like." Dwalin drawled, hiding his smirk in his tankard.

Mistlynn composed herself, wiping the tears from her eyes and she struggled to regain her breathing as close to normal before standing up abruptly. "Well Master Dwarves, looks like the hour has come for me to bid you a good evening. I must be on my way to see Luna; she will be expecting me."

"Oi, not so fast there! We have to walk you back." Fili protested, setting his tankard down with a heavy 'clunk'.

"Yeah, Uncle will have our hides if you walk back unaccompanied at this hour." Kili added, looking incredulous at her suggestion of leaving alone.

"Well, I've been unaccompanied for the past several weeks, so I don't see the need for such adjustments now." She groused, adjusting herself before standing up taller. "I bid you a good night. Thank you for the pleasantries of your company." With that she promptly turned on her heel and walked, focused on walking with a confident, steady air and not to give in to the swaying stagger her body felt like exhibiting.

As she approached the door, another patron sitting at the bar near the door leered at her. "Hey there darlin, leaving so soon?" he crooned, while reaching out and grabbing her arm and pulling her closer to him.

Mistlynn looked at him shocked. "What gives you the impression that you can put your hands on me?"

His hand moved quickly from the small of her back to her butt, squeezing her roughly. "Oh, don't play so hard to get, I can tell your the type who wants a real man to show her who her master is."

Mistlynn didn't hear the sound of chairs being tossed back as her companions jumped to their feet. She grinned broadly, fluttering her eyelashes demurely as she leaned closer to him. "Let me tell you a little secret." She purred, making him lean in eagerly. Her fist met his jaw with a loud crack of flesh and bone, and he found himself rocketing backwards, hitting the bar as he caught himself with his arms before he could crash to the ground.

Mistlynn growled, glaring down at the man as her dwarven companions where instantly at her side, fuming at the audacity of the drunken man.

"Your fortunate she got to you before we did!" Fili spat, his eyes flashing with rage. The man spat out blood onto the floor and slowly stood up, bringing himself and his comrades to their full height. Mistlynn and the dwarves found themselves looking up at 5 enraged men who towered over them, clenching their teeth and fists ready and eager for a fight.

"Well, I'll hand it to ya lass, ya sure know how ta pick em." Dwalin growled as he rolled his shoulders and neck, preparing himself for the inevitable brawl.

"No kidding Mist. They are the biggest men in here." Kili grumbled as he and Fili tried to grab and pull her behind their group.

Mistlynn growled, pulling her arm free of Kili's grasp. "You know what they say the bigger they are the harder they fall."

*Thorin*

It had been a peaceful, uneventful walk. The council meeting had dragged on for hours, not that he had paid attention to the insufferable bickering of the counselors. When Dwalin told him they were meeting up for drinks later that evening he agreed to go. It would be good to get out and away from his duties. He needed some perspective from outside the mountain.

As he neared the pub, he heard the faint sound of yelling and wood splintering and glass shattering. The heavy door flew open, and some drunk men stumbled out, eager for escape. "Damn dwarves." One of them slurred drunkenly as he stumbles off into the darkened streets.

Alarmed, he rushed towards the door and yanked it open. Inside was complete mayhem. His friends were in the middle of a full throwdown, with four of the tallest men he had seen here in Dale. His nephews were brawling with an even bigger brute. He watched in shock as Fili was thrown across the room while with his other arm pinned Kili to the top of the table.

He hears a fierce cry "Let go of him you lummox!" Mistlynn jumped from the top of the bar counter and onto the back of the man, gripping him into a lethal chokehold. Kili lasheed out, kicking the guy in the gut making him stumble back. The man let out a choked growl and managed to get enough force to throw her over his shoulders and into a charging Fili, making them crash into a table and breaking it.

"ENOUGH" Thorin roared across the bar. Instantly the bar fell silent except for the few remaining tankards falling to the ground and shattering. "Sar em Gabura! What do you think you are doing? Dwarves! We are leaving! Master Barkeep, I apologize for the imposition. Take this as a token of my apologies." Thorin threw a satchel of coins larger than Mistlynn had ever seen on the closest table, while giving all in their party a deep glowering look of anger. "Let's go. NOW!"

Searing satisfaction flashed across Mistlynn's face as she saw the face of the man who groped her, broken and bruising. "That will be painful for weeks." She thought smugly to herself as she sauntered past him, a smirk on her lips, looking him up and down while walking past.

Thorin is the last to leave, slamming the pub door closed. He gestures sharply for them to walk a ways down the street, following behind them like a thunderous raincloud. Mistlynn and his friends look at each other before they hear Thorin cursing under his breath. "Makk an E ha'ak!" he seethed before stopping and looking at them expectantly. "What was that in there? Are you trying to undo months of treaties I've fought to secure?! I would have never expected this behavior from the lot of you! Especially you Dwalin! Gloin?!"

It was Dwalin who stepped forward before Gloin could fire back his retort. "We 'ad no choice! Tha beardless sack of warg shite grabbed er ass! So we put em in their place!"

Thorin froze, his posture turning rigid while his eyes darkened with a deep running ire. "He did what?" His tone quiet yet deadly.

Kili wiped blood away from his busted lip with the back of his hand. "Bastard tried to proposition her and when she said no, he grabbed her." Kili growled.

Thorin looked at his comrades, all of them nodding their heads while cursing under their breath about Mistlynn's honor being fought for. He looked over at her, seeing her face flushed a deep red. If it was from the adrenaline of the fight or from embarrassment of being handled inappropriately, it didn't matter to him, that man deserved to have his hand removed for even daring to touch her. A rage welled up deep within, a feeling he hadn't felt since his battle with Azog when he had watched him attempt to run Fili through and throw his from the cliff to his death.

He turned abruptly and started to stalk back towards the pub. Mistlynn gasped and jumped in front of him, placing her hands firmly on his chest. "No! There is no need! You took care of him already!"

"No need? He dared lay his hand on you!" He seethed.

Mistlynn couldn't hide the frustration and confusion that flashed across her face. "I defended myself, I don't need you to step in!"

Thorin's nostrils flared with surging anger, her nonchalant attitude about being groped by a filthy barfly infuriated him. It was as if it was a daily occurrence, something to shrug away and dismiss. The audacity this dam possessed, not letting him defend her honor was driving him mad. "You were supposed to be making sure she was alright, not taking her to unsavory pubs." He spat as he turned to his nephews, needing to project his ire on someone other than the vixen standing resolutely before him.

"It was hardly an unsavory pub." Kili argued irritably. "We were having a grand time until he stepped out of line."

"Who do you think you are? Telling me where I can and cannot go?" Mistlynn seethed.

He pointedly ignored her and tried to storm off, angering her even more as she rushed to keep up with him, baiting him with more demands.

Fili and Kili looked uncertain as they watched her run off after their uncle. They look back at their friends, who were merely shaking their heads.

"Worry not lads. It's all part of it. Figuring one another out. Laying out the boundaries." Gloin assured them. "You should've seen Gemlinn and I when we first started courtin."

"They are not courting yet!" Fili objected. Bofur, Bifur and Nori all laugh as Gloin patted Fili on the shoulders.

Dwalin just rolled his eyes. "Young pups."

"Oh, don't you worry, Auntie and Uncle are just having a little spat. They will work it out soon!" Bofur snickered as he wiggled his brows suggestively.

*Mistlynn*

Mistlynn stepped in front of him. "What gives you the right to dictate what I can and cannot do?! Why do you keep ignoring me!" She hissed, cutting him off his escape path.

Thorin's eyes darkened as he looked down at her, his chest heaving as he leaned down closer to her. "I have every right. Including not having to acknowledge your questions." He growled, his voice deep and dark, making her shiver at his tone.

"I am not one of your subjects you can boss around!" She stomped her foot forcefully into a shallow puddle while poking him in the chest with her finger for emphasis.

"If I say you are not to go out then you are forbidden to do so!" He stepped forward, as if daring her to push her finger in even deeper into his muscular chest.

"I will do as I please!" she shrieked while trying to ignore the involuntary shudder that ran down her spine at his predatory glare that held her in place.

She didn't have a chance to react as he grabbed her arms quickly, picking her up and slamming her against the back of the building as if she weighed nothing. She felt the rough, damp stone of the wall seep through her shirt, making her body tremble. It took her a second to realize just how close he was to her. His chest pressed firmly against her, his body heat seeping into her chest and belly making her heart pound rapidly in complete synchronization with his.

His scent was distinctive and intoxicating, mixed notes of heady warmth, earthy tobacco, and the smoking embers of a fire; along with something unknown to her, masculine was the only word that she could think of.

Her eyes trailed from his slightly parted lips to his eyes, stormy and dark with anger and something she couldn't name. She had seen what lust does to the eyes, she saw the effects of it in the eyes of the brute from the pub, but this was something akin to deep emotion, raw and powerful.

She found it hard to swallow, her breath catching at the intensity of his gaze and aura. His hands gripped her wrists firmly, holding her steady, as if she would be capable of walking away from him in this moment, when she couldn't even form a single cohesive thought.

"You're so bloody infuriating." He rumbled through his chest, his tone deeper than she thought possible.

She raised her chin higher, trying to maintain a defiant air; truthfully, she was struggling to keep her wits about her. "Only for you." It was a hushed whisper, her eyes fluttering closed as she felt his nose brush hers, their lips hovering.

He let out a distraught growl before he crashed his lips upon hers, demanding and passionate as he stole her breath away from her. One hand moved from her wrist to her face, his thick fingers tangling into her wild silvery locks, forcing her head to tilt and allow him to deepen their kiss.

This kiss was unlike anything she had ever experienced, making fire sear through her body to create a molten pool between her legs as he devoured her, her knees threatening to buckle at any moment as she whimpered with pleasure and need. Her free hand slipped over his muscular shoulders and into his thick wavy mane, pulling and grounding herself closer wantonly. It was overwhelming, the ravenous intensity of craving to claim all of him, as if she was intoxicated with his very heady essence.

In an instant, his hands were gripping her hips and raising her up, causing her legs to instinctively part and wrap around his waist. Their kisses became frantic, knowing that time stood against them. Thorin's strong hands caressed her hips, then slid up under her shirt to cup the curve of her breasts, making Mistlynn shamelessly moan into his mouth as if begging him to give her more. Her fingers clench around his neck while moving her wet kisses down his throat and back up to his lips, encouraging Thorin to rock her into the wall, triggering her back to arch into his hard erection where she so desperately needed him most.

Suddenly, Thorin pulled back to rest his forehead against hers. Her eyes flutter open to see that his are still shut tightly. "Thorin." She whispered softly, moving her hand to cup his jaw while she nuzzled her nose against his. He slowly opened his hypnotic eyes, and she was caught off-guard with the intensity of affection and terror that was a tempest in his crystal blue depths.

He leaned into her palm as he let out a few ragged breaths, savoring the feeling of her warm fingers brushing against his tingling skin, stroking his bearded cheek with the most intimate touch he had ever felt. He swallowed thickly as he gently lowered her back onto unsteady legs He raised a hand to cup the back of hers, grasping it gently to remove it from his face and back to her side. He squeezed her hand, as if desperately trying to ground himself before letting out a low growl as his eyes snapped shut, effectively closing her off from seeing his inner demons that were threatening to pull him under. He pulled back swiftly as he turned quickly on his heel and stormed off into the night before Mistlynn could register what had happened.

She was left reeling and trembling against the cold stone of the wall. Her senses became heightened to the point of dizzying clarity. The sound of water dripping into the puddles gathered along the cobblestone alleyway echoed deafeningly around her as his intoxicating smell faded, overtaken by the smell of rain, damp earth, and stale ale mixed with other vile liquids that flooded her nostrils. It made it seem as if he had been a ghost, that he had never been there at all.

[medranochav]

I love behaving in ways I haven't fully contrived, it makes me feel like a heavenly vessel. acting out something pre-destined and not of my own volition nor for my immediate satisfaction. I like the idea of being divinely used. and not on some Christian, speaking in tongues shit.

in saying so I'm ofc referring to my accidental break from all socials (except tumblr). as a chronically online sicko I'm forever at odds with how to find validation outside of algorithmic qualifiers. So when I started the new year with vague resolutions entailing a revival of my influencer aspirations of yore, I began to put all my creative eggs in one Instagram basket. I started to outline a comeback that would have me spilling about sobriety before I was even ready to say so. A plan that would have me collecting and posting every piece of art I've made in the last 3-10 years in an effort to prove my legitimacy as an artist. I was gonna start doing looks again, pulling all nighters and wreaking havoc on my skin... etc etc.

but just when I was ready to start and do the most... I was struck with an intense inaction/hesitation and period of deep reflection. that headiness soon led to fatigue. fatigue led to burnout. burnout led to the flu. and all the while life never stopped enough for me to recover my new years plan.

so now it's March and for whatever (and all the) reasons, I never got the ball rolling. I'm still in my head. and I'm rethinking my whole trajectory. what do I really want?... what's really motivating me? how can I still feel valid and real without an audience? is the immaterial reward enough? am I high rn? do I ever get nervous? am I single?

[hyungwonmyheart]

Holiday Delight

Group: Pentagon Pairing: Wooseok / Female Reader Words: 1,611 Tags: Valentine’s Day theme, oral (male receiving), love making, vaginal sex, protected sex, fluff Summary: With a break in his busy schedule, you get to spend a passionate Valentine’s Day with Wooseok.

“You really didn’t need to do all of this,” Wooseok exclaimed, glancing around at the dozens of tea light candles scattered on surfaces around the room. He sat anxiously on your bed, having not been in your apartment for a couple months due to his busy schedule.

You walked out of the bathroom, a satin robe hugging your body. “I know,” you said, coyly casting your eyes at the floor, “but I’ve missed you. I wanted this to be special.”

A smile played on his lips as his eyes surveyed every inch of you. “I missed you, too.” He held his arms open towards you.

You made your way over to him, wrapping your arms around him in a tight embrace. “Happy Valentine’s Day,” you mumbled into the hug.

He nuzzled close to your ear to say, “I got you something.”

You took a step back, though remained standing between his legs. Curiosity plagued your expression.

Reaching into his pocket, Wooseok pulled out a small jewelry box, and you could have sworn your heart stopped.

“What is it?!” You asked, so impatiently it almost sounded like you said one word.

Popping the box open, he displayed the heart-shaped necklace within. “It’s probably lame, but I wanted to give you a heart...that represents mine…” He cleared his throat, realizing how lame it did, in fact, sound. He had to finish what he started, though. “...That way my heart is always with you.”

Your eyes widened. “I love it!” You squealed, touching it delicately. “Can you put it on me?” You turned around, exposing your back to him.

He stood and brushed some of your hair away from your neck, but it wasn’t enough. “The robe’s in the way…”

“Oh!” You loosened the sash and draped it a bit off of your shoulders. It exposed the pink straps of your new babydoll top.

Wooseok swallowed hard at the sight. He couldn’t wait to ravish you. He carefully hooked the clasp and settled the necklace onto your skin. “How about that?”

You glanced into the nearby mirror and looked up at him with a bright smile. “It’s so beautiful! Thank you, baby,” you cooed, turning to him. You lifted onto your tippy toes to give him a kiss.

As soon as your lips touched, the mood changed. Wooseok’s fingers caressed the smooth skin of your shoulders to push the robe even further down your arms. Your breath was heavy, mixing with his. Within seconds, his shirt was on the floor and you were working at the button of his pants. He noticed how eager you were to get them off, too. Steadying your hands with his own, he helped guide the zipper down and eased the pants off his legs. He was left in underwear while you were completely untying your robe.

His mouth started salivating at the sight of your nipples peeking through the sheer fabric of the babydoll top. His eyes barely even drifted any further before you were shoving him onto the bed. He flopped down on the edge, staring at you with alarm at your sudden assertion.

You fell to your knees in front of him and met his gaze. “I love you,” you said just above of whisper, pressing a kiss to his knee.

His tongue darted out to wet his lips, but froze as he felt you kiss his inner thigh. He was so speechless that he nearly forgot to answer you. “I love you, too,” he exclaimed, his legs instinctively widening to make more room for you. “So much.”

Slipping your fingers under the hem of his underwear, he lifted his hips and you slid them down his legs. When you were face-to-face with his hardening length, you felt your pussy clench around nothing in a desperate plea to have it inside you. You continued to trail kisses up his thigh until you reached the glorious cock you were proud to call yours. Gripping a hand around the base, you squeezed it a bit as you dragged the tip of your tongue across its slit.

Wooseok’s dick twitched in your grasp as he tilted his head back at the sensation of your tongue. “Shit,” he swore quietly.

You smiled, lapping up the precum that was beginning to seep from his slit. After smearing it on your tongue, you dragged it along the underside of his dick, teasing the veins along the way. You moaned softly. You missed this. You missed being between his long legs with his cock in your mouth, completely absorbed in the pleasure of the moment. His legs tensed as your breath fanned out along his nether regions before your lips wrapped around him.

His hands rested on his knees, their nails digging into them as he immersed himself in this ecstasy. The way your head bobbed, the spots you knew just where to tease; he was quickly approaching release, but he didn’t want that yet. It had been so long since you’d been together, and he wanted to make you feel good, too. “Wait, baby,” he urged, slowly pushing your head away. When he finally took a good look at you, he felt like all the air had been sucked from his lungs.

You were clearly taken off guard. Your lips were swollen and pinker, and your hand was tucked between your legs, petting your wet heat. “What?” You breathed.

Wooseok couldn’t take anymore. He reached down and helped you out of your lingerie before hoisting you onto the bed. You were lying on your back with his hands roaming your body. “You’re so fucking sexy,” he groaned, taking your hand in his. Your fingers were glistening with your arousal, so he sucked them clean for you.

Watching him in silence, you ended up squeezing your thighs together as he hovered over you. The spanse of his shoulders was wide and protective; they always made you feel safe. Your other hand traveled down between your bodies to stroke his cock that was left all to its lonesome.

Letting out a grunt, his brows drew together in a tight knit while his hips thrust into your hand. “Don’t--”

Your lips cut him off. You thrust your tongue into his mouth, tasting yourself on his. A soft whine slipped through the kiss. You felt his hips starting to jerk with your movements and immediately let go of him. “Get a condom,” you whispered, motioning at the nightstand.

No longer than a minute passed for Wooseok to grab a condom, tear the foil, roll it on, and present himself between your legs that were now spread wide for him. His eyes were hypnotized for a moment as he tentatively rubbed himself against your pussy. No matter how many times you had sex, he always adored your body like it was the first time. “Ready?” His voice was low and warm as he questioned.

You gave a nod and took a deep breath, preparing yourself. You whimpered in bliss as he entered you. It had been so long. Throwing your arms up, you beckoned for him to embrace you again.

He happily obliged. Pressing his lips to yours with such a heartfelt tenderness, he slid an arm under your back and rolled his hips with each thrust. His other hand cradled the curve of your neck.

Endless waves of desire washed over you as you needed to feel more. As your bodies moved together, you powerfully met his thrusts. Panting and hitching breaths created a heated atmosphere, full of passion and devotion.

“Harder,” you begged before biting at his bottom lip.

Wooseok sighed against the sting, the pressure of your teeth egging him on. His intensity spurred forward, chasing the pinnacle you both so badly needed.

Your hands had been intertwined with the wavy locks on his head, but one slipped down to vigorously rub your clit. “I’m so close,” you cried into his ear.

Resting his forehead on yours, he grunted a simple “Same!” before his thrusting became sporadic. He kept pounding into you, despite the overstimulation from just coming, until your entire being tensed. You were holding your breath as the strongest orgasm roared through your nerves. Everything went numb for a few seconds, and then suddenly faded into a haze.

You gasped for air.

Wooseok was in shock as he watched you come down from your high. He hadn’t seen you come that hard before, but he felt pride in knowing he helped take part in it. His cock was spent for the time being as he pulled out and disposed of the condom in the bedside trash can. Laying back on the bed, he brought you into his arms and nipped at your lips.

“Wow,” you sighed after returning the kiss. “That was…”

“Unbelievable?” He gloated.

You laughed lightly. “Yeah!” You rested your head against him, fiddling with the heart-shaped pendant that hung around your neck.

“I’m glad you like it,” he said, pointing to the necklace.

“I told you I love it! Not as much as I love you, but it’s up there.” You grinned at him.

That made him chuckle. He ended up sighing deeply as his body began to calm down from being so worked up. He continued to hold you as he stared at nothing in particular. “I’m so glad I was able to see you today…” He found himself saying.

You nodded, snuggling closer to him. “Thankfully everything worked out!”

You knew things wouldn’t always be this fortunate when it came to getting together outside of his hectic work schedule, but in the end, you still loved Wooseok and he still loved you.

That was what mattered.

[muddyorbsblr]

talking in your sleep pt 1

Summary: Loki returns from a recon mission to discover that you hadn't slept since he left. Four days ago. based on the prompt "I haven't slept in four days"

Pairing: Loki x Reader (friends to lovers)

Word Count: 3.1k

Warnings: accidental sleep deprivation, light cussing, mild angst (?), Tony's a bit of a dick [let me know if i missed anything!]

"Hey, Reindeer Games, quit blocking the door, will you? I get it, you want out of here already because you can't stand being around us. Trust me, the feeling's mutual. But standing at the door while the Quinjet's still landing won't change a damn thing."

"It will guarantee that I am the first one out these doors, Stark," Loki grumbled in response, not moving an inch from his position by the door. Stark wasn't entirely wrong; he truly didn't wish to be around the billionaire, or his oaf of a brother. But he wasn't entirely right, either; if he allowed himself a moment of honesty, he wanted out of the flying vessel so that he could see you again.

You'd started working for Stark shortly after the god had been sent back to Earth due to a deal made by Thor on his behalf with their father, the Allfather, that instead of wasting away in a cell in Asgard for a thousand years, Loki would be utilized as an asset by the Avengers along with his brother as recompense for his attack on New York. When you'd started working at the tower, you recognized him immediately because of how often the news bombarded you with his face in those few days as well as the weeks – the months, really – that followed.

Not that you were complaining, of course, it was a devastatingly handsome face.

He fully expected you to recoil the moment he saw the recognition in your eyes, but just as much as you could recognize his face immediately, you saw as well that he was not the same man--god, actually--that he was all those years ago when he led the Chitauri to wreak havoc in your home. So with all the confidence you could muster, you smiled at him just like you did the rest and said it was nice to meet him. And that started the two of you on your path to where you were now, friends. Close friends, to be certain, but despite the arguments that would be made by some that you were more.

You weren't more. He would surely know if you were.

"Leave my brother be, Stark. He does not simply wish to vacate this vessel because he's itching to be away from us. He also wishes to be reunited with our dear Lady Y/N." What was that mortal expression again? Even broken clocks were right twice a day? Yes. That was Loki's current sentiment towards his brother. Oftentimes he would read situations wrong, but this time he was dead on. 

"So what's the deal with you and her anyway, Rock of Ages? You hitting that?" 

Loki straightened his stance, as if ready to battle yet again, and faced his brother and Stark. "How dare you insinuate that I would ever harm so much as a hair on her head--"

"Brother, no, you misunderstand our genius friend." He scoffed at the words. "Friend" was not a word he would use to describe Stark. "He simply means to inquire if you're laying with Lady Y/N--"

"Don't be ridiculous, brother," he hissed. "I've simply grown accustomed to her company. And she's too intelligent to get involved with someone as nefarious as I." And too pure, he thought to himself. To make the misstep of courting her would only proceed to corrupt her untainted soul. 

"Oh I get it," Stark's words broke through his reverie. "He's in love." He didn't bother to even react to that observation. "Oh. Look at that. No snarky comeback? No 'you are all of you beneath me'? Are you actually--Oh my god Thor look at him he's seething!" 

"Stark, I implore you to desist." Thor's tone was now cautious. "Perhaps just leave him be for now." Unbeknownst to the god of mischief, his brother had observed how he behaved around you. How he treated you as if you were something precious, and on the occasions that he held you, it was as if you were a delicate petal that might wilt at his touch. Thor had his suspicions, but watching how his brother reacted to Stark's words cemented them into conclusions. His brother was in love with you, and he'd chosen the path that would risk nothing but guarantee that you stayed in his life. 

When the Quinjet landed and its doors opened, Loki let out a groaned "Finally" before striding through the Tower, down a path that was most certainly not to his chambers. Anyone who crossed his path knew to stay out of his way, what with the purposeful strides and the almost gleeful look on his face, there was no doubt he was on his way to you. 

It was only when he was just a few more steps away that he realized the sun had only began to break through the night clouds, not having fully risen. You weren't due to arrive at the Tower for another three hours.

So then why was he hearing movement coming from your office? At this hour? 

He closed the distance to your office and opened the door, half expecting staff to be doing their rounds. Instead he found you, furiously typing away at your computer as you always did, but looking more frazzled than usual.

"Y/N? Darling?" 

You jumped at the sound of his voice, not even registering a few moments ago that the door had opened. You turned your head and looked at the devastatingly handsome features of the god you were fortunate enough to call your friend. Even though every time you referred to him as such, a dull ache would make itself known in your heart. You wanted more. Of course you wanted more. You'd have to be a fool to look at him, to know him the way you did, and not want more. 

But you knew better. You knew your place. You were meek and unremarkable compared to the likes of a master assassin like Natasha, or a powerful witch like Wanda. You wouldn't even be able to defend yourself in a bar fight. Being his friend was all you'd ever get. And you had to be content with that.

I am content with that, you told yourself. Fooling absolutely no one.

"You're back already?" you blurted out, realizing you'd spent a few moments too long spaced out and staring, and hoping he didn't notice. 

"Already? Darling, I was gone for four days, I--hang on." He walked towards you, taking your hand and gently tugging you up to stand. And then he took a good hard look at you, as if trying to remember something. "Something feels amiss with you." 

"Y/N? You're way too early, even for you," Natasha's voice floated in to your office. She threw a quick glance Loki's way. "Welcome back, Laufeyson." Then she turned her attention back to you. "You're in the same clothes from Monday," she remarked, the concern beginning to lace through her voice as she observed the candy packets and coffee cups littered throughout your desk.

"Yeah. Because it's Monday," you answered, wondering why these two were acting so strange. 

"Sweetie, it's Friday. The guys left for a 4-day reconnaissance mission on Monday morning. They returned today. Have you…have you been in here the entire week?" 

Realization dawned on you as the words escaped your mouth. "I haven't slept for four days?" And then your knees buckled.

If it hadn't been for the reflexes of the god who wrapped his arm around you and held you upright, you would've for sure been on your ass on the floor right about now. "Sweetheart," he whispered into your ear, making you question if your heart picking up its pace was from the copious and questionable amounts of caffeine coursing through your bloodstream, or from his proximity to you. "Have you even eaten?" 

"Do those count?" You motioned to the empty snack packets on your desk, causing him to groan as he rested his head against your temple. 

"My darling human," he murmured, the rest of his words spoken too softly to be heard over the thundering of your heart. 

"Alright, Y/N? Sweetie? I'm gonna fix you something to eat. Something proper. And then you're gonna get some sleep. I'll tell Stark you're not reporting for work today. Now go take a shower. Can you walk on your own? Loki, let her stand." He let you go, his arms poised to catch you in case you were to stumble over again; you didn't. And you managed to make your way over to Natasha without tripping over your own feet, which gave her a bit of reassurance. "Okay. Grab a change of clothes from my closet, get yourself cleaned up. Then make your way back down here and eat something before you go to sleep, okay?" 

You nodded as you made your way upstairs. You briefly heard her tell Loki not to follow you, and then holler at Wanda to make sure you made it to her room alright, and the Sokovian met you at the top of the stairs. "Y/N, you look awful. What happened?" 

"I forgot to sleep." The look she gave you prompted you to say more. "For four days." 

She looked towards the common area, chuckling to herself. "No wonder your god looks completely beside himself." 

"He's not my god, Wanda, he's--we're--we're friends." In your compromised state, you could barely contain the hurt that laced your voice as you said the words. "Just friends." 

"But you love him," she prodded. "And I've seen the way he looks at you. That's not a look of friendship, dear one." 

"You're wrong, Wan." You may be sleep deprived, but you were adamant in your convictions. "He simply tolerates me a bit more than the rest of you, that's all. That's it and that's all." 

"If you say so, my friend," she murmured as you made it to Natasha's room. You walked straight towards the shower. "Any preference?" she called from Nat's closet.

"I just want my bits covered, Wan. I'll leave the rest to you." 

Fifteen minutes later you emerged from Nat's bathroom in a fluffy white towel, eyeing the emerald green silk camisole and shorts set that Wanda laid out for you. "Really?" You proceeded to eye her.

She shrugged in response. "Suits you. Makes you look regal." 

"I'm assuming you're not familiar with the concept of wearing certain colors in Asgardian culture, then?" At least your brain seemed like it was a bit sharper, thanks to the shower. 

"No, I am." The smirk on her face told you she'd been hanging around with Thor and Nat too much. "I'm not lying about the color making you look regal, Y/N. It really does. Regal and his." 

"I'm not his," you snapped, making yourself flinch. "I mean I am, but I'm not. I'm his but he doesn't know it. He doesn't care. We're friends. That's it--"

"--and that's all," she finished. "I get it, I get it. Now I'm pretty sure that despite our friendship, sharing panties is where we draw the line, so you'll have to go without." You shrugged, figuring as much, as Wanda turned around to let you change into the borrowed clothes.

She led you back to the stairs where Loki was waiting for you at the end. He threw a look towards Wanda when he caught sight of your outfit, and you were too caught up in making sure you didn't trip that you didn't catch her mouthing a "You're welcome" his way. When you reached the bottom of the steps, he wrapped his arm around you and led you to the kitchen island where Nat had a sandwich ready for you.

"You know I'm perfectly capable of walking, right? I managed just fine a while ago." You did your best to keep your tone light, almost joking. So that he hopefully couldn't see through you and see that you were fighting every urge to swoon and fawn over your current predicament. Just friends, just friends, you chanted over and over in your head.

"I prefer having my reassurances," he answered you simply as he lifted you onto a bar stool by the island. "You're far too precious to be compromised," he whispered as he pressed a kiss to the top of your head. 

"Eat," Nat ordered, placing a glass of water as you took a bite. You winced at the sound your stomach made as your body began to recognize that it was being fed real food and not something ultra-processed and sealed into a colorful wrapper. When you finished your sandwich, she took your hand and gave you a pill. "Melatonin. Drink. Then go to my room and rest. I'll be away the whole day anyway--"

"Nonsense, she's staying with me," Loki cut her off. "You've mentioned multiple times that you keep blades hidden throughout your chambers, some of which are very well within reach of anyone sleeping in your bed, Romanoff. She's safer with me." Your blood ran cold. Sleeping in the same bed as him? In your current state of dress? Yeah, that sounded like the worst idea. 

You opened your mouth to protest but the look on his face told you that wasn't any better of an idea. He seemed hellbent on personally making sure that you were nursed back to your normal state of mortality. He motioned to the pill in your hand. "Drink it, darling." You did as you were told. "Good girl." You fought every instinct you had in order not to show the effect those words had on you. His next words, though? You were completely gone. "Let's get you to bed." 

"You know, Jack Frost, if you wanted to get dear Y/N into bed with you, you could've just asked," you heard Tony quip as he walked into the kitchen. Then he took a look at you, your sullen face and your sunken eye bags. "What happened--"

"She didn't sleep for four days," Natasha answered. 

"I was trying to find a weak point in the security system of a group called the Ten Rings, you might be familiar with them, Tony, they were--" Your words got cut off as you felt the air leave your lungs, your feet leaving the floor as the dark-haired god scooped you up into his arms and carried you up the stairs and away from the conversation. "Hey!" 

"No more talk of work, little mortal. It will still be there when you wake. For now you have to rest."

"Take next week off, Y/N! I don't want to see you in that office of yours for the next seven days!" Tony hollered from his place in the kitchen. 

When you and the god were out of sight and earshot, Nat addressed Tony. "Isn't that a bit too much? I mean today and Monday? Yeah, I understand. But the whole week? What game are you playing, Tony?" 

"Laufeyson's," he answered the assassin. "I'm giving him game. Those two are idiots in love if I've ever seen it. And call it a gut feeling, but I think one of them's finally gonna confess. The week is more a gift to him than her." 

"Aww you're warming up to him." 

"You tell anyone and the next mission I send you on is with Barnes. Just Barnes."

You finally felt the effects of the medicine kicking in as you laid in the center of Loki's bed, listening to him reading you poetry with his silken voice. You didn't want to but you felt your eyelids falling, despite wanting to keep awake a little longer just so he'd keep reading to you. 

"Sleep, my darling," he chuckled as you let out a yawn. 

What possessed you to shuffle closer to him and rest your head on his chest – his bare chest, mind you – you would never know, but you'd blame it on the Melatonin. "Thank you for making sure I don't stab myself in Natasha's bed," you mumbled against his skin, unable to register that his heartbeat had gone erratic against your ear. 

He pressed a kiss to your hair. "Of course, my precious mortal. I'll always watch out for your safety, you can hold me to this promise." He ran his fingers lightly up and down your side, trying to help you get to sleep faster, so that he could allow himself to lose his feigned composure at the feel of your soft body against his. 

You wrapped your arm tighter around him and burrowed your face into the crook of his neck as you mumbled, "I knew there was a reason I fell in love with you." 

His hand stopped. His breath stopped. He could have sworn his heart stopped as the words left your slumbering mouth. "What did you say?" he all but choked out. 

He felt you shrug against him as you said, "Why the fuck not. It's just a dream anyway." His breath hitched as he awaited your words. "I fell for you. Head first. Absolutely stupid in love." If it hadn't been for the drowsy tone of your voice he could've sworn you were awake. Or perhaps he wished you were, so that he could look into your eyes as you said these words. "I know I shouldn't be. Ruin the friendship and all that. But you didn't exactly make it impossible. You're perfect. Annoyingly perfect. And I was defenseless." 

"Oh Y/N," he breathed out. "My dear heart. My darling, beautiful little human. Are you telling me you're mine?" 

"I'm yours," you murmured. "I've always been yours." You nuzzled more into the crook of his neck, whispering against his skin, "I love you, Loki Laufeyson." The tears escaped him at those words, rolling down his cheeks. "Such a damn shame you don't feel the same way." It was as if the world had stopped turning as he felt you press your lips to his neck, letting out a contented sigh, before you fully succumbed to sleep. He had to tell himself to remember to breathe as he felt your breaths even out, letting him know that you had finally surrendered your body to rest.

The god, on the other hand, didn't sleep a wink. He couldn't. Not when there was so much he wanted to say. Not when there was so much to plan. 

A/N: Yes there will be a part 2, I'm not leaving it here. I just had to cut myself off because I'm incapable of writing short stories ahhh

Part 2 is up and available HERE!

Taglist: @lokisgoodgirl @lokischambermaid @imalovernotahater @redbluekjw @lucylaufeyson3 @thomase1

[flooffybits]

Sing Me Something

Idol: Lee Siyeon (Dreamcatcher)

Everyone knew that the members liked to learn how to play instruments. So imagine their surprise when one of them receives a present that Siyeon is more than happy to have around.

A/n: yes i am aware that this is not angst

☕buy me a coffee☕

People knew how much you loved to learn new things, more so when you showed them a completely new talent during one of your appearances in Fact In Star. They all knew you could speak two languages due to you being a foreigner, but imagine their surprise when you had spoken in a very different language they hadn’t known you already knew.

Yoohyeon explained at some point how you had picked up after her, learning a new language due to your desire to further interact with your international fans. So now, as you faced the camera and spoke with said fans, they wondered what you were still doing at the company at such a late hour, knowing full well that you should be tired due to the fact that your comeback was slowly approaching.

“Why am I not home?” You read outloud, eyes wide before you cocked your head to the side and then pointed to the instrument leaning against the wall behind you. “Everyone, there’s no guitar at the dorm, and I haven’t exactly decided on buying one yet.” You answer with a small sigh and lean against your seat.

Someone commented about Yoohyeon having one and you shake your head. “Yoohyeonnie is sleeping early now because we’re all getting ready. But I also don’t want to use hers because I’m scared that I might break it.” You say while pretending to cry.

It truly was lonely when none of your members were around to accompany you.

You read as the comments kept going up, smiling to a few. "I've been trying to learn for a while now. I've always been so interested ever since I was a kid." You grin before picking up the instrument and then pluck at the strings, the sound filling your ears when you try to play a few chords.

Looking back up, you find various requests and suggestions of songs to sing. "I'm not that good at it yet." You laugh bashfully but try to think of a song easy enough to play, using the suggestions of your fans as well. You try recalling a few chords and check the comments to see if you were doing alright.

When you finally settle for a song, you let your muscles relax before beginning to play the intro to Blackpink's Stay after seeing a few fans commenting on it and they all seemed to be enjoying it even when you keep your focus on your fingers on the fretboard. Though you do look back during the chorus, pretending to sing it for those who were watching.

At some point, you forget one of the chords and look up for help, laughing as you did. “Like this?” You ask when you place your forefinger on one of the strings, nose crinkling when you don’t follow right away. But with the help of your fans, you were able to get back on track.

You end it a little earlier than the people would hope, laughing before you checked your phone to see a text from one of your members. "Siyeon unnie just messaged me." You inform them while picking your phone up to check on the contents of her message. “Was she watching the live?” You wonder out loud.

y/n come hooome TT as much as i love hearing you sing, its late and i want to cuddle you

You giggle at the cute little message before sending her a reply about how you were busy talking with InSomnia. In response, your phone started to ring a few seconds after, making you laugh some more as you answered the older woman's call, putting it on speaker for people to hear.

"Unnie, what's wrong?" You ask before her whining reaches your ears. "I said come home." The already present smile on your face only grows as you gently set the guitar down. "But I told you that I'm talking to Somnia. I’m also practicing." You retorted playfully and fans are cooing as the two of you continue to converse.

"Everyone!" She calls out this time, knowing full well that you've put her on speaker after she had called and with the way you spoke. "Please say goodnight to our Y/n. She has to come back home and tend to her favorite unnie."

The comment has you giggling and you bring the phone closer to your lips just so you're sure she can hear you. "Dong unnie hasn't texted me though.” You tease before she’s making a sound. “Yah! Since when did you replace me?” She demanded and you had to stop yourself from laughing too much. “I didn’t replace you, Dong unnie and Jiu unnie are my favorite.”

“Ah, is that so?” She asks and you’re suddenly wary of the change in her tone. “Just wait until Sua unnie hears this.” There it was. You felt your throat dry up and you looked as though you had gone pale at the mention of the dancer, knowing full well that she will not stop bugging you for not choosing her.

And it looked like your fans had the same thought.

“Okay, maybe Sua unnie is my favorite, too.”

“Yah!” The vocalist protested and you just smiled before shaking your head. “Okay, okay. I’ll come home in a while and take care of you, unnie.” You finally relent after the continuous whining noises she’s given, chuckling as you can basically hear the pout in her voice. “Tell me I’m your favorite.” Her voice was so small and you didn’t have the heart to keep teasing her anymore.

“Siyeon unnie is my favorite. Don’t worry.” You assure her before she finally perks up. “You heard that, right everyone? Y/n is mine!” She boasts and you finally put her off speaker before pressing the device to your ear. “I’ll see you in a while, unnie.”

“Be quick.” She replies and you finally say goodbye before looking back to the live, grinning as you addressed your viewers. “Well, you heard unnie. I have to get home soon.” You explain to them, opting to read a bit more of the comments instead of leaving right away.

But you did find comments telling you that it was fine to leave and that you should tend to Siyeon. Even your ship name had been mentioned a lot after the little interaction.

“Unnie is really cute, right?” You laughed before standing so you could put the guitar back from where you first got it. “But, she’s right. It is pretty late and we still have practice tomorrow.” You pout, zipping the bag up and then safely putting it away before returning to the camera, only to see a few more of Siyeon’s messages.

You said you were coming home now :((( youre still doing the live

ynnnnn

why are you making me wait

“Siyeon unnie just texted again, everyone.” You say amusedly. “It looks like she is watching. Unnie, hold on, I’m just fixing up and saying goodnight to InSomnia.” You explain as you tie your hair up so it wasn’t falling on your face. “I’ll talk to you all next time, hopefully I can play the guitar well for you all by then.”

You smile at the encouraging words sent your way before deciding to finally end the live. “See you soon, goodnight. I love you!” Waving goodbye, you finally turn it off before gathering your things and finally leave the company, sending Siyeon a quick text that you were on your way home.

..

Siyeon waited for you as you finished getting your makeup done. She was happily admiring your outfit for this fanmeet, seeing how you seemed comfortable in it and that it wasn’t too much for you while keeping the theme of everyone wearing black. In fact, it looked like something you would wear during a casual hangout, yet it still looked stylish.

“Please make our Y/n extra pretty.” She had requested in a cute tone, making your stylist chuckle and you to smile. “Y/n is pretty already, so there’s not much for me to do.” She had replied as she made sure your hair was in place, clipping two parts at the back before leaving the rest of your hair down in waves of ash brown, and Siyeon all but bounced in her place when she saw that you were finally finished after your stylist applied a bit of hairspray.

Making sure that there was nothing else missed, your stylist nodded approvingly before gently nudging you towards the waiting woman. “Don’t mess her hair up, please.” Siyeon salutes playfully before encasing you in her arms, lightly pecking your cheek just so her lipstick doesn’t leave a mark.

“Our Y/n is so pretty. I could kiss you.” You crinkle your nose at her claim before poking her side. “Unnie just said not to mess my hair up.” You remind and she pouts. “Come on, just one kiss. It’s not even going to bother your hair.” She reasons, but your stylist pipes up behind you. “Don’t ruin her makeup either.”

You laugh at the face Siyeon makes, Minji doing the same when she catches what’s going on. “You’re both so cute! But unnie is right, Siyeon-ah. We’re starting in a while and you don’t want Y/n late because she has to redo her hair and makeup.” The leader warns and Siyeon lets out an exaggerated sigh before resting her head on your shoulder instead. “Fine.”

Siyeon’s pout would grow whenever your attention would flit away from her and to either Handong or Minji, recalling your past live where you had told her that the pair were your favorites, though you’ve already stated that you were only joking around. When Bora was there, however, the dancer made it her goal to wreak havoc when her sight zeroed in on you after Siyeon told her she wasn’t your favorite.

You remember running away from her the morning after, only for it to be in vain because she had you trapped in the practice room and the only way you could avoid her was when you used your members to shield yourself, yet the only ones who helped you out were your leader and Handong, fueling the little jealousy that Siyeon already felt after your admission.

Since then, Bora decided to bring it up whenever she could, though you know that she just wants your attention just as much as Siyeon does.

“Y/n, come here!” Siyeon groaned as Bora called you once more, tightening her arms around your waist as you looked over. “Why?” She asked for you, the pout already set on her face as Bora grabbed your hand. “She’s sitting next to me.” She stated with a smirk and you grimaced before trying to spot your manager.

“Don’t even try it. Let’s go!” Bora tugged at your arms and you reluctantly left Siyeon’s arms, despite her protest. “Why can’t she sit next to me?” The brunette whined and Gahyeon looked at Siyeon. “You spend the most time with Y/n unnie. We’re her members, too!” Handong chuckled at their squabbling. “I think Y/n spends a lot of time with all of us.”

“That’s because you’re also hogging her when Siyeon unnie isn’t around.” Yoohyeon pointed out with Bora nodding in agreement. “She comes to you often, especially when she wants to study Chinese.” Yubin added as she fixed her skirt and then dusted herself off. “Basically the unnies have taken Y/n away.” Minji chuckled amusedly when she reached to pinch your cheeks.

Siyeon huffed at that, crossing her arms as she watched Bora cuddling you already. “But Y/n is mine!” She complained and Yoohyeon leaned against her shoulder. “Y/n unnie is going to get tired with all of us if we don’t stop arguing and go. Our manager is also going to get angry, too.” She laughed when you all saw your managers waving you over.

“Come on, kids! Time to meet InSomnias!”

While you’ve done this numerous times, it never failed to bring a smile to all of your faces. As soon as the screaming of fans met your ears, you had all forgotten about the little argument you all had in the dressing room and greeted your fans with vigorous energy.

If you could, you might have already hopped out of your seat to hug them.

As everyone was happily interacting with the people that sat in front of them, thanking them for coming and accepting gifts, Siyeon smiled when she greeted one of your fansites. “You’re the person who always makes cute edits for Y/n.” She beamed and the fansite smiled shyly while nodding their head.

“There aren’t that many people who make them for Y/n unnie, so I try my best.” Siyeon’s smile widened at that before nodding her head while she signed the fan’s album, leaving a quick thank you message. “Y/n really appreciates it, so I hope you keep up the good work.” She encourages and the fansite nods happily. “Of course!”

When your fansite reaches you, Bora is telling her to make sure that your best edits are the ones with her in them, earning a laugh from you as you greet them. “Don’t mind unnie. She’s still upset with me.” You tell her, and your fansite giggles while nodding her head. “I figured as much since your live before the comeback.” She answers and you grin before opening their album to sign your name on it.

“How is your guitar practice going, unnie?” She had asked and you look up with a smile and she mimics it when she sees how your eyes sparkle at the mention of your little hobby. “I’m getting better! Of course, you all helped me last time. I should hire you guys.” You joked and she giggled with you before nodding her head. “Then that means I can give this to you.”

You were a little confused by what she meant, but when she moved to remove the strap of the guitar bag from her shoulder, your eyes widened when she brought it forward. “You said you don’t have a guitar yet, so I got you one! It’s a little similar to the one I have at home, but I had this one customized with your animal and favorite color.”

“You didn’t have to. This must have cost a lot!” You say worriedly, but she shook her head in reply. “It’s not much, please don’t worry. I also got this for you so you don’t have to be at the company so late.” She explained while lowering the case a bit. “Also this way, you can practice while you’re in the dorm and you don’t have to borrow Yoohyeon’s guitar.”

You were a bit overwhelmed with such a heartfelt gift and you quickly stood to bow at her, surprising your members who sat on either side of you, and fans who caught the interaction. “Thank you so much. I promise I’ll take care of it.” You told her when you sat back down as she blushed and waved her hands.

When it was time for her to move over to Yubin, you bid her goodbye with the biggest smile on your face before you asked your managers to handle the item with care as they came to put it in your box of gifts.

Once that was done and you were able to talk with all of your fans, the tables and chairs were cleared and all eight of you gathered on the stage to take pictures while also answering some questions, along with conversing with them in general.

Seeing how happy you were at the moment, your members watched you with fond smiles as you kept waving to everyone, posing for the camera like the rest of them were. They could also see how you were excited to see your new guitar, seeing as you haven’t really checked the inside of the bag to see the actual present.

“Unnie, do you want to open it?” Yoohyeon’s voice had caught your attention and you see Yubin already walking over to your box of things to carefully retrieve the guitar with the help of your managers. “Is that okay?” You ask confusedly when you walked closer, though it was clear that you were more than happy to see it.

Bora grinned before nodding her head. “Go ahead. I think everyone wants to see it, too.” She tells you before Yubin handed it over and you gently put it down, crouching as you unzipped the bag. Siyeon had come up next to you and crouched beside you, making sure that you were covered up.

She observes you when you take a look at the instrument and she aww’s at the expression on your face when you finally see what it looked like. The body was in your favorite color and a copy of your signature was on the upper part of it along with little doodles of your assigned animal. When you turn it to check the back, both you and Siyeon are pleasantly surprised to see words carved on the neck of the guitar.

We dream of you the way you dream of us

You let your fingers lightly trace each word, your smile not once faltering and Siyeon had to stop herself from tearing up as she stared at the message before you looked up, searching for the fansite who had given you the guitar before finally meeting her eyes.

Shooting her a smile, you borrowed Gahyeon’s microphone before speaking. “I love you, thank you.” Though you didn’t say much, everyone could feel the various emotions and feelings it held underneath, and there really was no need to further ask you about it as you stood to try it, Siyeon helping you with the strap - one that also had a few more characters you adored.

“Is everyone up for one more song?” You ask and your members had no complaints along with your managers since there was still a bit of time before you had to perform What.

“What are you singing for us, Y/n?” Handong asked as you tuned the guitar while Siyeon rested her head on Gahyeon’s shoulder as they watched you.

There was really only one song you could think of at that moment, so you didn’t waste time playing the chords to Full Moon, it being one of the first few songs you really wanted to know how to play.

The girls didn’t seem to catch on to it right away, but once you started singing, fans started cheering while your members beamed and sang along with you.

The moments when you and I were together

It is like I’m a star in the sky

It was easy for all seven of them to adjust to the slower tempo of the song since you often practiced with them around, and the girls would admit that they had heard you singing it at a slower pace.

When the fanmeet ends and you were all back at the dorm, Siyeon came bounding into your room, grinning when she saw you already on the Vapp and conversing with fans dispute having seen them earlier. She listened as you happily spoke about the event and how you wish you could have an event with InSomnia from all around the world in just one place together, and her heart melted just a little at how fondly you spoke about your fans.

“Unnie, I didn’t notice you coming in.” You were surprised when you finally noticed her in the room and she laughed lightly before shaking her head, keeping herself out of frame since she had already changed into her sleep wear and she didn’t feel like stealing your attention away from everyone so much.

“I just wanted to check in on you. How’s your guitar?” She asked, eyeing it as it rested beside your and Yubin’s desk. “I could hear you earlier, before I went to wash up.” She stated as she sat on your bed and then peeked at the camera, poking her head in just so it only showed her eyes and forehead. “Hello everyone. I can’t show my face right now, but please enjoy our Y/n.”

You giggle before looking back at the guitar then shift your gaze back to the older woman. “I really appreciate them a lot.” You say softly and Siyeon smiles as she reaches to run her fingers gently through your hair. “I’m sure they know that.” She nods to your phone that has various comments coming in, agreeing with her statement and you nod your head in reply, smiling and radiating pure happiness.

As you continued with your conversation, Siyeon decided to just lay down to listen to you, humming as you told her what fans were saying and just enjoying as she listened to you speak. She had always found your voice soothing to listen to and it was also endearing how much you showered your fans with affection, so it made her feel at ease.

When she turned her head, the vocalist suddenly noticed your guitar again before the words fell from her mouth when you paused to read the comments. “Sing me something, Y/n.” She shifted so that she was laying on her side and you hummed in response before looking at her.

“Sing me something. I like listening to you.” She said quietly and you smile before nodding your head. “I’m going to get my guitar so I can sing for you guys, okay?” You announce before quickly leaving the bed to fetch the instrument.

You’re quick to settle back though before looking at the other with a thoughtful look on your face, making her giggle as she lightly pinched your leg. “What?” She asked and you laughed in reply. “I was thinking of what to sing for you.” You reply, opting to come up with a song by yourself despite fans sending in requests.

It doesn’t take long though before Siyeon sees you setting the guitar on your lap and then start playing, singing right along. Though she doesn’t understand everything that you're saying since it was an english song, she did smile when she was able to catch parts of it.

They say that love is forever

Your forever is all that I need

Please stay as long as you need

Though your eyes often check if you were playing the right chords, you make sure to look at Siyeon as you sing, smiling at her as she does the same, listening to your gentle voice as you both seemingly forget that you had an audience.

When you finish, Siyeon is close to falling asleep and you can’t help but coo before placing your guitar away before leaning down to gently caress her cheek. “Unnie, you should go back to your room. You’re falling asleep.” You say with a giggle but she makes a small whining sound as she nuzzles against your hand.

“But your bed is comfy.” She murmurs, fighting back a yawn as you shake your head. “Please?” You try again and she huffs with a pout before weakly tugging at your wrist, an indication for you to come closer.

Your upper body is off camera when you do as she asks, leaving fans to only see you from the torso down, and her arms loop around your neck before she presses a light kiss against your lips.

“Do you want me to tuck you in?” You ask quietly and she presses her head against your neck before nodding. “You have to let go first so I can say goodnight to everyone.” You giggle, recalling the live that you had forgotten due to your tired girlfriend.

There are questions coming in when you look back and you merely smile before glancing back as Siyeon’s eyes close. “It looks like it’s time for us to go to sleep. Unnie is literally falling asleep on my bed and she won’t go to her room unless I tuck her in.” You joke lightly while reaching for her hand and giving it a light squeeze.

“We’ll see you again. For now, have sweet dreams and I’ll see you then, okay?” There’s a meaningful smile on your face before you finally turn the app off and turn to your sleepy girlfriend.

Seeing how tuckered out she was, you didn’t have the heart to force her to get up, so instead, you adjust your positions before laying her head on one of your pillows before laying next to her. The action causes her to stir, and she’s a bit confused when she realizes that she’s still in your bed, but you’re already pulling her closer before she can question you.

“Goodnight. I love you.” You whispered, drawing a small yet sleepy smile to her face as she draped an arm across your abdomen. She didn’t have to tell you she loved you back.

You knew more than enough.

[renjiokumura]

Love?

Min Yoongi x Plus size reader

Disclaimer: Anything I write is purely fiction.

Tags: Angst, Established Relationship, and cursing.

Summary: Everyone has there limits and Y/N just found Yoongi’s. 

A/N: I write the reader pretty undescriptive. I tend to use female pronouns, so you’ll probably have to specifically ask me for something with male pronouns or gender neutral. But the reader can be any race you are and be related to the characters through adoption or whatever helps you move the story along. I want everyone to feel like they can read my writing.

The lights were flashing, blood was bumping, and the noises were deafening. There was a thin layer of sweat coating your body, and mixed with the hot lights shining upon you, you glowed. With poise, precision, and wild abandon, you hit every dance move and wreaked the stage. You commanded the stage with your wild energy and your fans loved it. You never thought in a million years you would be preforming as a musical artist, let a lone at MAMA as the opening act. But here you were rapping and singing your songs for your fans. Your new style was a diamond in the rough theme, with flashy accents here, grungy tones there, and punk black filling everywhere else. You are probably wondering how you got here, well it all started a little less than a year ago.

It had been two years into your relationship and on your end, it seemed like everything was going wonderfully in it, but you were very wrong.

You were a sweet doting girlfriend. Ever since you were a child you loved to care and help people as much as you could. That was sweet and all, but some people found that overbearing, that’s why you didn’t have too many friends growing up. You got better at reining it in enough to get a friend, but you still had your moments.

“Y/N, you know he’s busy, so give him some space. The boys will be there for him if something happens so calm down.” Your friend sighed, exasperated with you for staring at your phone instead of enjoying each other’s presence at your favorite café.

“I know, I know. But I still get worried and he hasn’t texted back for about a day and the longest he has ever not responded was an hour.” You looked up at you friend with pleading eyes, “He’s been doing this for a while now and I don’t know why.”

F/N abruptly stood up and snatched your phone out of your hand. “I’m doing this for your own good.” You were staring at her in complete shook as she sped walked out of the café.

“WAIT!” you said running after her. When you finally caught up with her you confronted her actions. “Why did you steal my phone and where are we going?” you asked out of breath.

She smirked looking at you, “Somewhere you can relax,” and looked forwards again walking with a purpose.

Back at the BTS dorm there was tension flowing rampantly. Yoongi had turned his phone off yesterday and it has been off since then. He was already irritated from the soon approaching comeback, and it would only get worst if he turned his phone back on.

It was a known fact that Yoongi was a patient, caring, and overall nice person. Don’t get me wrong, he did have a cold aura but underneath that was a very nice man. But everyone had their limits, and Yoongi was getting close to his.

He genuinely loved his girlfriend and was nothing but grateful of her caring and supporting nature, but it was driving him crazy at the moment.

Currently he was stressing over finishing the last track of their new album, when there was a knock at the door. “Come in,” he said not caring who it was.

Jimin poked his head in the door cautiously knowing that his hyung was in no mood for any unnecessary distractions. “Hyung,” he called out nervously, “There has been a change in the schedule today and they need us right now at the dance studio.”

The growl that came from the rapper after did not ease the unfortunate messenger of the bad news from his nervousness. Taking a few calming breaths Yoongi respond to Jimin.

“Ok. Tell them I’ll be ready in 10 minutes, okay?” he said tiredly to his dongsaeng.

Jimin gave him a faint smile and nod then left as quietly as he came.

Thinking this would be a good way to let out some tension he got ready to go to the dance studio, unfortunately it was everything but. On the drive to the studio, he was under the impression that they would make slight adjustments to the dance routines. Instead, when the boys arrived at the dance studio they found out that the choreographer changed about half of the whole dance.

And that isn’t even the worst of it. Yoongi was messing up almost all of the new moves, which resulted in them staying longer. It wasn’t until 4 hours later that the new dance was perfected. The boys left the dance studio at about 9:30 PM and they were exhausted, more stressed then before they got there, and starving. On the drive home some of them took a nap and some were too restless to even let their consciousness slip away and obviously Yoongi was one not taking a nap.

As the boys were making their way back, you were finishing up getting food for the guys, knowing they aren’t taking care of themselves because of the comeback. Not to long ago, you and F/N split ways after leaving a cool new karaoke place you had been dying to go to. On the short walk to the dorms, you were bubbling with excitement to see the boys, especially your boyfriend.

You truly did love him. He was your rock and you were his marshmallow. He made you feel so good about yourself when you were down about your weight and you made sure to be there for him when he needed some help. You guys just worked so well together.

The boys got back to the dorms a few minutes before you, and that was enough time for the storm to start and wreak havoc. As the boys left the car slightly dazed and confused, Yoongi left his phone in the car, but Jungkook noticed and got it.

“Yoongi-hyung,” he called as he walked in the house last.

Yoongi turned around wondering what the maknae wanted but froze a little seeing the younger boy turning on his phone.

“Here you know our higher ups don’t like us having our phones off. Be careful.” He playfully scolded with his bunny smile not knowing what he had truly done.

As soon as the phone was in Suga’s hand, it started blowing up with multiple texts, missed calls, and voicemail notifications. And that is when Min Yoongi finally reached his limit. Shouting curses, he threw his phone lucky missing any of the members and or walls in his anger driven actions.

“I’m sick and fucking tired of her bullshit!” he was pacing at this point wanting to break something but trying to channel his anger in to just shouting. All the other boys were a little terrified at the out burst and didn’t know what to do or what it was about.

“Fuck!” he was stopped facing the boys and unaware of the person who snuck in after Jungkook.

“I mean fucking hell! I can’t do anything without her worrying me with her worrying about me for 5 secs. She’s over bearing, overly sensitive, and just plain annoying. She has been blowing up my phone with constant texts and I’m reaching my wits end with Y/N.” He finally finished his anger fueled confession, not knowing that the last person he wanted to hear it heard every word.

You couldn’t believe you ears. During his whole outburst, you were in the kitchen.  You were about to fix him a plate of food from the dinner you had brought him and the boys but were stopped by the loud volume of his voice. You knew you could be a little much and you came to terms with that even tried to fix it but hearing that the love of your life couldn’t even handle you really hurt.

Your body was visibly shaking with all the emotions running through you, but the most overpowering emotion was heartbreak. Silent tears fell from your eyes and they wouldn’t stop coming. Amazingly you were able to quietly make your way out of the house without being notice. As soon as you were out in the cold with only yourself and your thoughts, you cried hysterically and ran all the way home, running like you never have before.

Meanwhile back at the dorm, Taehyung had caught a waft, during Yoongi’s explosion of angry words, of delicious food. When Yoongi had settled down a little, the vocalist went to find out what the source of the smell was and left towards the kitchen. With Tae’s sudden movement, everyone broke from their stunned states noticing the smell of food and were soon following in behind him, even Yoongi.

Upon arriving to the kitchen, the boys found a big feast packed in multiple containers filled with their favorite foods. They all were confused on where it had come from. On closer inspection they noticed a uncomplete plate filled with some of Yoongi’s favorite foods and all came to the same realization.

“Fuck,” the oldest rapper cursed under his breath. Before anyone could make a move, in the silence, a single text notification was heard that made Yoongi’s blood run cold. Slowly grabbing his phone like it would bite him if he touched it. He unlocked it and saw the last text he would get from her for a long time.

My Love: Enjoy the food. I hope you guys have an amazing comeback. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be a bother. I promise I won’t anymore.

A/N: I might add more to this but I’m not sure. I just want to get some of my WIPs out there.

[cc-tinslebee]

The Mighty Ducks re-watch commentary you didn’t ask for:

Charlie was such a little pipsqueak in this movie and I love him-

“Barely human” hmmm, I smell foreshadowing

That good Jesse & Ducks dynamic that I missed dearly!!

“I’ll take care of it.” Jesse being SUPER protective of District Five and not taking any of the Hawks’ racist shit. Iconic of him.

Goldberg: “I’m moving back to Philly” so that was a fucking lie

Averman, my beloved- no thoughts, only the scenes where Averman’s just providing golden and random commentary

Connie!! She really said she’s the responsible one!!

Gordon: I’m sure they’re very nice names. I might even learn them.”

Charlie: >:O

These gremlin children woke up that day and chose violence. Good for them.

Charlie really fell on the car floor and just decided not to get up. Legend.

GET HIS ASS, CASEY

Coach Reilly: We’re both adults, you can call me Jack.

Gordon: I don’t think you understand how much I can’t do that

casually dropping that bomb of Adam being the best player on the Hawks + calling Adam the Ducks’ star player

Adam going from a colossal jerk for no reason to the quiet boy we know and love. Iconic of him.

Charlie, struggling up from his bad fall:

Adam deciding to check him directly in the back for some reason:

Goldberg just giving up is such a mood (“we need a new goalie” D2: you called?)

The way we don’t actually see Adam’s face until his coach is praising him for the play. Cinematography at its finest.

Gordon chastising Charlie for disobeying his play 🤝 Alex chiding the Don’t Bothers for disobeying her call to keep Logan out of the game

Charlie Conway taking NO coach’s shit since 1992

Okay, Fulton never DENIED that he was getting sports scholarships, he just said just because people talk, doesn’t mean it’s true. Hmmm

Tammy and Tommy!! I missed you!!

No thoughts, just the egg scene

Goldberg, our Jewish king!!

Imagine going to the mall and this pack of ten year olds are just wreaking havoc everywhere

In my first watch, I thought Guy and Connie were kinda rushed, but looking back, there’s a lot of really nice, subtle hints here and there.

Fulton: steps onto the ice

Everyone else: [fear]

Adam: no fear

Phillip: my son would rather not play than play for your team

Adam: one fear

Charlie: gets checked really badly by Adam

Charlie: opposes Adam joining the team

Also Charlie once Adam arrives: On behalf of the Ducks, I’d like to say welcome—

Charlie’s just so sweet and charming- talking to Gordon about his past, trying to set him up with his mom-

Karp should really learn not to insult people’s mothers-

Ducksworth doing a complete 180 in personality (GORDON’S COMEBACK, WHAT A LEGEND)

Peter and Terry, my underrated legends

Not to be dramatic, but Adam and Charlie’s first hug on the ice was SO sweet. Charlie really said, “well SOMEONE’S gotta be here for this guy, it might as well be me.”

Charlie being an absolute champ and trying to set up Gordon with his mother

That one Hawk just smirking maliciously at poor Adam- what’s your problem, man??

“What’d you do?” “My job.” SIR, YOU’RE TEN

JESSE AND ADAM SOLIDARITY!! ADAM PATTING CHARLIE AND GUY AS HE’S CARTED OFF

FULTON REALLY SAID WOMEN HAVE RIGHTS AND MCGILL DOES N O T

Fuck, man, Gordon’s encouragement to Charlie before the penalty shot makes me so happy

Casey and Gordon: kiss

Charlie: :O

Joshua Jackson and Vincent LaRusso for some odd reason: we are going to exchange touches that are so goddamn tender

[creativia10]

First Wip: Dukeceit Vs

Summary: Vigilante Janus has to deal with the chaos that is the newest villain wreaking havoc. Yet they both find themselves drawn to one another.

Notes: I decided to go ahead and try posting some of these unfinished wips. This was actually one of the first fics I attempted to write after deciding I wanted to try and participate in Dukeceit week. I actually really liked this one. I think my original intention was for this to be for the Free day (although I ended up getting a lot of Dukeceit ideas that didn't fit into the prompts). I can see myself getting back to it eventually. Sorry for the abrupt cutoff it ends with at the moment.

Pairing: Janus x Remus

Word count: 2014

Warnings: implied background violence? , innuendos (implied kink), sexual tension

Janus nearly had to swerve as he felt his weight shifted into the wall of the building he was next to.

Well this was new.

Once he got his bearings, he carefully righted himself, testing that the ground was no longer shifting underneath him, and carefully made his way out of the alley he had changed in, still using the wall as a railing in case some other natural shift occurred. He peered out of the alley carefully, working into the natural suaveness his vigilante costume normally gave him.

The city…looked like a mess. He almost couldn’t begin to describe it. Roadways were shifted about, all sorts of objects were around in a disarray as though blown there. There were simultaneous evidence of flooding and fires. Janus had never before seen such a catastrophic mess left around. He wouldn’t have believed such a thing was there if he weren’t seeing it with his own eyes.

He sighed, and carefully stepped about to find the source of all this chaos. It didn’t take long for him to hear a maniacal cackle.

“Oh what fun!”

A man dressed in all black with accents in various outlandish neon colors was floating in the middle of the city, over what looked like swirling ground debris?

He was looking about, seeming to laugh at people’s reactions to the mess he had made. Attention at things such as people trying to fix wind ruined hair, and turning around as though dizzy in disbelief. He didn’t even seem to notice Janus at first.

Janus stepped up to him and cleared his throat.

“I’m not sure why I expected anything else, “ Janus said dryly. Of all things to say first to the new chaos.

The source of chaos turned to face Janus, and tilted his head, an unhinged twinkle to his eye before suddenly his earth twister collapsed and he landed right on the ground. There was an unpleasant sound as he landed, but the man didn’t seem phased as he looked over Janus. He had strange vibrant eyes, that gave Janus a radioactive feel.

“Hmm, you the goodie here to kill my buzz?”

Janus scoffed. “Gosh no. Do I look like a bright colored government ken doll? I clearly have way more class than them. I’m just someone who wants to make sure my life doesn’t get swept up in whatever craziness this is, and have the means to do so. I’d liked to see the end of the day, and I surely expected the road being twisted into a column is not going to be helpful to getting me to work tomorrow.”

The other just stared at him for a moment before he snorted.

“Ah, that’s a good one. See…I’m not done so,” He shrugged and went back to pointing around and zapping strange bouts of nature around the city.

“Are you even putting thought into what you’re doing?” Janus asked as he slyly brought himself closer.

“Or are you just doing your best to be an annoying menace to me?”

“Hmm,” he tapped his fingers to his lips, weird bits floating around.

“I mean, I didn’t have a particular plan, but I guess annoying you is a bonus.”

Just before Janus could pull out one of his weapons, a water tentacle slunk up from out of nowhere, and pulled him towards the black clad menace, wrapping him up and restraining him. The other laughed.

“Ah, now let’s have a looksy here.”

He walked around and seemed to be taking in Janus. Janus struggled and tried to get out of the hold, surprised there was such a firm pressure and that it was hard to break hold off. He wrinkled his nose when he got a whiff that suggested this water was not the cleanest.

“Hmm,” the villain was much closer now. Janus continued to struggle, glaring at the other, who simply smiled at him.

“Ok, “

Janus rolled his eyes. He concentrated, and Remus jumped at the unexpected slithering sensation around his ankle, which helped release Janus from the water hold.

Remus looked down to see the yellow and green snake there.

“Ah, you can summon snakes. Neato.” He then reached backward and got hold of Janus’ wrists before he could use the other snake like fanged object and surprisingly brought Janus up against his back, but he held the strength.

“Oh, snakey, if you wanted to wrap me up to bind me so badly, you only needed to ask.”

Janus grimaced and tried to break out of Menace’s hold, who in turn spun him around and pressed Janus back to his front this time. Menace made a sound somewhere between a growl and a purr.

“I say, I rather like you against me.”

Janus’ eyes widened, suddenly very aware of just how warm Menace’s body was against his. He tried to get ahold of his breath, struggling for a comeback.

“What, no quip back?” Menace asked, sounding far too pleased with himself.

Janus huffed out a breath and tried his other trick again.

“Oh, that’s not going to work on me, dear.” Menace said, even when snakes wrapped around his ankles.

“You’re not concerned about them being venomous?”

“You would kill me?”

“I’m a vigilante, I play by my own rules.”

“That wasn’t an answer~,” Menace sang. “And I’m sure this would be less fun if I died.”

“Who said anything about fun? That’s your thing.”

“Mhmm~. Sure.”

He leaned in some to whisper into Janus’ ear,

“Isn’t there a thrill to being close to a rival whose intentions you don’t know?”

For some reason, the way he said that gave Janus shivers. He quickly tried to think of something else he could summon to get him out of this position before he completely lost his composure.

“Aha!” A familiar voice cried.

“Release the snakey villain, you new fiend.”

However, the obnoxious ‘hero’s’ entrance gave Janus the distraction he needed. Janus stamped on Menace’s foot and elbowed him enough to be able to get out of his grasp. He turned to face him, eyes flashing.

Menace simply laughed.

“Oh.”

“Your villainous deeds have now come to an end now that I-“

Janus shot a gag at him.

Menace cackled.

“Didn’t expect you to do that.”

“He’s annoying.”

The hero wrestled the gag out and stamped his foot.

“Hey! I am trying to save the day!”

“Mhm, and I’m trying to cut down a pest, so out of my way.”

“As if I would let the sly likes of you determine your own moral law on how we retain the bads of this city!”

“Oh blah blah blah, gosh, does he always blather on like this?”

“Indeed.”

The hero gasped in offense.

“Anyways, I really did not come here to fight two people today. So if you’re determined, I’m gonna head out. “

“Aww, but you’re probably more fun to fight!”

Janus just stated at Menace for a moment.

“What?”

Menace laughed, and then zoomed away on another earth twister.

“Aren’t you gonna go after him?” Janus asked the hero.

“But first-“ the hero started.

Janus rolled his eyes. “Whatever.” He threw a smoke bomb and left before the hero could turn that into another needless battle, like he tended to do.

-

Janus wasn’t sure what he expected to come of that, but it wasn’t what ended up happening. For one, apparently Menace, as Janus had mentally dubbed him, was better at getting away than he thought. Janus wouldn’t put it past the hero’s incompetence either though, but it really wasn’t his business as long as the pest was done. Recurring villains, unless they were really powerful, were actually not a common thing where they were. Usually the villain would end up in jail. The hero, despite being annoying and over the top, was powerful, like a more dramatic superman. It was annoying often, say when Janus clearly had it against a villain, or the hero suddenly decided to fight him since his deeds were not always the most legal. Nevertheless, a villain being a child about who they wanted to fight was not common. For one thing, usually it was just the hero who fought the bad guys. Janus didn’t always go out of his way since he didn’t consider himself to be a universal do-gooder or anything like that.

Yet, this ‘Menace’ would show up at different parts of the city, bringing about his usual chaos, and almost actively ignored the hero. It was strange. Janus, begrudgingly, felt he needed to step in. The hero didn’t work well with others, or maybe he was just a nightmare to ‘work’ with.

Janus had barely gotten his costume on in the alleyway when he felt a strong wind pulling him out.

Gosh. That was too close.

Menace was standing in front of him, on the ground this time, with his earthy twister behind him.

“Heyy there, snakey. I’ve been waiting~.”

Janus raised an eyebrow at him, despite it likely being covered by his mask.

“Is that so?”

“Mhmm!” The villain leaned forward on his toes, unnaturally keeping his balance, probably from wind powers or something. Janus couldn’t help but lean back some.

“I was getting bored~.”

“That seems to be your whole ordeal, hm? You get bored. I get tired, yet I’m still here.”

Menace snorted.

“See, this is what I mean. You’re fun to talk to.”

“Yes, because snarky rival banter totally counts as talking.”

“Well, it is for me. “

Remus then spun around in his twister that seemed to stretch away.

“Come and catch me!” His voice rang off.

Janus groaned and started to trudge in that direction, trying to decide what he could summon to assist himself. He hadn’t summoned many large objects of transportation, but maybe he could find something to up his speed.

“You! He-“

“Yeah, I know, sir super hero. He seems to want to play with me, I will have to deal with it.”

The hero paused for a moment. “Is there anything I can do?” He asked hesitantly.

Janus smirked at him. “Not that I can think of. You seem the type to care about protecting the people so” Janus waved his hand, and went back to his task. He didn’t get very far before he was thrust into his next obstacle, a sink hole suddenly sucking him into the ground. Janus quickly summoned a grappling hook and hooked it onto the surface so he was dangling, but no longer falling. There was an echo of Menace’s cackle. Janus sighed as he swung himself up and landed smoothly. He looked around and saw he was in a different part of the city.

“Oo.”

Janus heard little clapping.

“That was a neat trick. I got to see you in many different angles. Very fun for me.”

Janus gave him an unimpressed look, before carefully looking around.

“Where is everybody?”

“Oh, probably deserted. I’m not very quiet.”

He slid up to Janus, on some sort of sliding ground formation.

“I think I’d rather have you all to myself anyways~” He said with a whole body wiggle.

Janus made a face.

“Why do you keep doing that?”

“Hmm?”

Menace suddenly got closer.

Janus took a step back, hand curling for something, but he struggled to wrack his mind of something that he could actually use against the walking natural disasters.

“Th-the comments, to me.”

Janus cursed to himself at the stutter.

‘“Hmmm” Menace tilted his head until there was an unpleasant creak.

“Cause. It’s fun, and I like you.”

Janus paused and stared at him in bewilderment.

“What?”

Menace giggled at that and then suddenly they were against a wall. Janus let out an oof, as his back hit a bit roughly. It didn’t help that the other man was against him.

“Ya know, I gotta say, I’m not the type who’s into pain,” Janus croaked before he could stop himself.

Menace frowned and took a small step back.

“Er, sorry…I got ahead of myself. I didn’t actually hurt you did I?”

Janus narrowed his eyes at the other, a bit

[its-ashleyreads]

Finished: 25/07/2021

King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo

There had been a time when words had been the only place he could find solace. No book ever lost patience with him or told him to sit still. When his tutors had thrown up their hands in frustration, it was the library that had taught Nikolai military history, strategy, chemistry, astronomy. Each spine had been an open doorway whispering, Come in, come in. Here is a land you’ve never seen before. Here is a place to hide when you’re frightened, to play when you’re bored, to rest when the world seems unkind.

Rating:  ★★★★☆

Summary:

Three years after Ravka’s civil war and the coffers are still empty, allies are scarce, and the king is battling an affliction unlike any other.

Nikolai Lantsov has never fully recovered from his time spent as a monster of the Darkling’s making during the civil war. After Alina Starkov killed the Darkling and brought down the Fold Nikolai was supposed to be cured, but a part of the Starless Saint lived on inside of him, taking hold of him at night and wreaking havoc on his unsuspecting subjects. But with war on the horizon and a cult of Darkling worshipers that are beginning to gain a bigger foothold, Nikolai needs to make sure that his inner demons never see the light of day again.

Review:

After the events of Crooked Kingdom, it felt nice to come back into the Grishaverse and see some familiar faces again, every time a character from The Grisha Trilogy or Six of Crows was mentioned I couldn’t help but smile. And then I got to Nina’s chapters. For the first half of the book every time Nina was even mentioned I cried, when she buried Matthias in Fjerda I sobbed, I get so emotional over Nina and Matthias I can’t even control myself. But that’s just a testament to how good Bardugo’s writing is and how deeply she made me care for Nina and Matthias’ arcs in SoC, I was so moved by the growth in those characters that it was like a physical pain when that growth was stunted. But after she buried Matthias and began to get to know Hanne things started to look up for my girl Nina and I took so much pleasure from seeing her come alive again.

But where Nina came alive, Nikolai seemed to wither for me. I’m not sure if it was Nikolai himself or just the fact that I really didn’t like how long was spent in that boring ass upside-down-esque wasteland, but even from the beginning of the book to the end, Nikolai got boring, which is not something I ever thought I would say about the king of quips and comebacks. Zoya just got better and better, unleashing new powers, opening up more emotionally, making some sick comebacks, but Nikolai became so much less than he was and I don’t necessarily understand why. Nikolai’s whole thing is that he hides his emotions with humour and he always has a game face on, but once they were in the upside-down (that’s what I call it) he just dropped it. I could understand him dropping the mask in front of Zoya but it just seemed weird when he wasn’t his bubbly self in front of Yuri or the Saints. I’m glad Isaak was introduced in part two because he was so much more interesting than Nikolai turned out to be. But I haven’t given up hope and I do believe that he’ll find his way back to his witty self by the end of Rule of Wolves.

And I am really excited to start RoW. While I wasn’t a big fan on the upside-down part of the story, the overarching Starless Saint plotline was so captivating! I just kept thinking of all the D*rklina’s fawning over the great and terrible Duckling, saying Yuri’s lines and it was way too funny. I feel like that had to have been intentional. Zoya and Genya give way too many arguments that I’ve had to, or seen others have to make, against the Duckling. But it is so much more powerful coming from characters that he’s abused. That being said, I also loved Hanne’s story and how because of her we got to see another side of Brum as well. At the beginning, before her father was revealed, I thought he sounded like a nice guy. He taught Hanne to ride and hunt and spent time with her in ways that so many fathers in Fjerda neglected to do with their daughters. I love how we got to see both sides of the abuser, and the impact of those actions on the ones that they love/love them.

I just love how much thought and care Bardugo puts into her characters, specifically the female characters, how she never neglects or skips over the trauma they’ve all faced, and how they’re all still badasses! It’s so easy to write a badass female character who just brushes off trauma, but it is infinitely more important to write a badass female character who feels that trauma deeply and is still a badass. Alina, Inej, Zoya, Genya, Nina, all of them are powerful in their own ways, all of them deal with their trauma’s differently, but holy shit if I don’t love them all. I am so excited to see most (maybe all?) in Rule of Wolves.

[twistedtummies2]

Gotham’s 31 Most Wanted - Honorable Mentions

It’s New Year’s Eve, everybody! Just as I did back in October with my “31 Days of Disney Villainy,” before I begin my countdown of my Top 31 Favorite Batman Villains – one for each day of January – I want to go over some of the baddies who sadly didn’t make the cut. These are the Terrible Ten who ALMOST got onto my main countdown, but for various reasons ultimately didn’t quite manage it. Some of these guys are more well-known than others, so we’ll see how many you all recognize. With that said, before the countdown begins at midnight, here are my Honorable Mentions for Gotham’s 31 Most Wanted!

1.     Calendar Man.

Julian Day, a.k.a. Calendar Man, is a villain who has had a lot of ups and downs in his history. Depending on who you ask, he’s either one of the dumbest Batman villains ever made, or one of the most underrated. I fall into the second crowd. The Calendar Man is a deranged crook who commits crimes themed around holidays and seasons. I actually find that to be a very interesting concept, and I’m surprised that so many people dislike the character, and that for a long time he was considered something of a joke. In more recent years, however, the Calendar Man has been making a slight comeback; he’s still often the butt of bad jokes, but more people seem to be waking up to the potential this guy has to be a legitimately interesting and/or intimidating dastard. However, while I do have a soft spot for the character, I just like other rogues better. Not much else to it.

2.     Clock King.

As I said yesterday, when naming the rules for who could qualify on this list, I would not be including “crossover rogues.” These are villains who are TECHNICALLY part of another superhero’s rogues gallery, but whom Batman has faced on numerous occasions. Batman has faced Lex Luthor more than once, for example, but I think it’s fair to say no one’s going to lump him in with the same crowd as Clayface or Catwoman. Similarly, King Shark has appeared in various forms of Batman-related media, but he’s really a villain of Aquaman’s. With this in mind, there are four villains who I felt I just couldn’t COMPLETELY leave out of the running, despite them being those sorts of rogues. The Clock King is the first one. The original Clock King, William Tockman, was a foe of Green Arrow, and was, in my opinion, a better villain than people often give/gave him credit for. However, the character really took off when he first appeared in the 60s Batman TV series, and then got even more attention in a few appearances in “Batman: The Animated Series” and its spin-offs. In fact, the latter version was so popular, THAT version of the Clock King – Temple Fugate (pictured above) – later replaced Tockman, though even he was really more of a Teen Titans villain than a Batman rogue. In fact, while the Clock King does keep appearing in Batman-related media, I’m not even sure if the two have ever even MET in the comics. I will admit that he feels like he fits right in there, and I’ve always had a real soft spot for this villain, but I didn’t think it was right to place him on the list.

3.     Deathstroke.

Ever since the “Arkham” video games, in particular, I always hear Deathstroke referred to as a Batman Villain. I’ll confess that it’s always cool, both in and out of comics, to see him square off with the Dark Knight, but Deathstroke really isn’t a Batman Villain in the strictest sense. Much like the Clock King, in the comics – heck, even in other media – he’s typically depicted as the arch-enemy of the Teen Titans. I guess you could say this perhaps makes him Robin’s arch-nemesis, but that’s not quite the same thing. I do love Deathstroke – he’s definitely one of the greatest DC Villains out there – but I don’t think he fits here any more than Clock King does.

4.     Gentleman Ghost.

This is the third example of a villain who I didn’t QUITE think counted as a Batman Villain. And of them all, he honestly came the closest. See, in the comics, I’m not even sure if Batman and the Clock King have ever met, like I said; and in regards to Deathstroke, sure, they’ve fought on several occasions, but Deathstroke is pretty much well-renowned as the foe of the Titans, and especially Robin. Close, but no cigar. The Gentleman Ghost, however…I keep feeling like DC WANTS to make this guy a Batman Villain definitively, but haven’t quite done so yet, if that makes sense. This dapper phantom thief is TECHNICALLY an arch-enemy of Hawkman & Hawkgirl, of all characters. However, in other media, he often seems to have no set foeman, and in perhaps his most famous incarnation, from “Batman: The Brave & the Bold,” his origins were outright changed to make him a Batman Villain, with no ties to Hawkman whatsoever…in fact, did the Hawk family even APPEAR in that show? I sincerely can’t remember right now, so if anyone can remind me, please do. On top of that, not only has the Ghost faced Batman in the comics, but in one particularly seminal story – “All My Enemies Against Me,” in which a whole group of Batman Villains teamed up to try and take down both the Caped Crusader AND an invading Killer Croc – Gentleman Ghost was included among the ranks. Keep in mind, he was kind of the one odd guy out: all the other villains, from obscure ones like The Spook to more popular ones like Penguin, were DEFINITELY Batman Villains. So to see Gentleman Ghost counted among those ranks was a bit strange but also seemed to indicate he’d found his niche there. However, he’s never been OFFICIALLY counted as one of those villains, and again, in the comics, he’s still most closely tied to the Hawks, or at least the Justice League. So even though I was EXTREMELY tempted to count him on the Top 31, I felt it was still cheating.

5.     King Shark.

Our fourth and final villain who I didn’t really think counted as a Batman Villain. Just like the Clock King and Gentleman Ghost, King Shark has been in a lot of Batman-related media, but in the comics, his encounters with the Dark Knight are fairly minor. He’s real arch-foe is Aquaman, unsurprisingly. This is one of the reasons why I feel I can’t count King Shark on the main list, but the other is that I legitimately have an issue with the character: he’s constantly changing. True, comic book characters change frequently, and villains like the Mad Hatter and the Joker have undergone significant tonal shifts over the decades…but with King Shark, it seems like every single writer who uses him has a 100% different way of handling him. Sometimes he’s a strong and noble warrior; sometimes he’s a blood-hungry, animalistic monster; sometimes he’s a wisecracking psychopath; sometimes he’s actually fairly nice polite until his instincts get the better of him…heck, even his APPEARANCE changes constantly! Sometimes he’s a Great White, sometimes he’s a Hammerhead, sometimes he’s a Tiger Shark…there’s just an absolute zero for CONSISTENCY with this guy, and it drives me up the wall! In recent years, the character has become more popular, but I’ve never really been able to latch onto any version of him more than another, and I’ve never really had any strong attachment to him in general. I don’t hate the guy, I just wish people would handle him better.

6.     Maxie Zeus.

Much like Calendar Man, Maxie Zeus is one of those villains who, depending on whom you ask, they’ll either call one of the dumbest supervillains ever made, or one of the most underrated. Admittedly, between the two, I prefer Calendar Man, but there’s actually a lot of untapped potential in Zeus. The key problem with this character is essentially not his fault: he’s inspired by the campy character of King Tut from the 60s series. (He was adapted into comics himself, incidentally, but that version sucks in my opinion, and is hardly ever used…good riddance. I’ll stick to Victor Buono, thank you.) For those who don’t know, King Tut was a professor of Egyptology who, due to a mental issue, came to believe he was the reincarnation of the famous pharaoh. In Maxie Zeus’ case, he was a gentleman who came to believe he was actually the Greek God of Thunder, Zeus. Just as Tut thus embarked on a mad quest to turn Gotham into his new empire, Zeus plans to turn Gotham into his new Olympus. With such daffy inspiration, you can see why Zeus would be underestimated, and in recent years he’s often been depicted as a “joke villain” - similar to characters like Condiment King. However, in my opinion, Zeus actually CAN work as a legitimate antagonist when handled by the right people in the right way, and I even think that’s been done a couple of times. I tend to think he gets a bad rap. Still, again, there are other villains I simply like more.

7.     Orca.

Dr. Grace Balin used one of those handy-dandy super serums to transform herself into a half-killer whale, half-human hybrid, all in a plan to try and wreak havoc on her hated nemesis: a nasty woman called Camille Baden-Smythe. Dubbing herself simply “The Orca,” she began to rain destruction down upon her enemy, constantly leading to face-offs with the Dark Knight. However, at the end of her first adventure, Balin was mortally wounded, and found the only way to survive was to permanently become the Orca. Since then, the Orca has gone from vigilante to frequently more of a true villain, and still makes off-and-on appearances in comics and even spin-off comics…though, unless you count a jokey cameo in the LEGO Batman Movie, the comics have so far been her only home. I know a few people who are big fans of the character, and I actually have a soft spot for her, too. I just didn’t like her QUITE enough to include her in the Top 31.

8.     Professor Radium.

Now, chances are, even if you happen to be a major comic book fan, you’re probably wondering “Who the Heck is Professor Radium?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone in that. Professor Radium is an EXTREMELY underrated and equally extremely little-known and little-used supervillain who I actually have a personal nostalgia for. In the core comics, he was once a well-meaning scientist who wanted to use radiation-based procedures and special formulas to enhance and extend people’s lives. In a twisted paradox of fate, he wound up instead turning his skin a glowing green, and developed a “Touch of Death.” Radium, in his initial appearance, desperately tried to fix his condition, but the mixture of the accident plus his tragic situation led to him steadily going insane, and he was seemingly killed at the end of the tale. He would later return many, many years later, however, forced to resort to a life of crime due to his terrible condition. I actually found out about Professor Radium through means that are somehow even more obscure than the character himself: the Batman comic strips. Yeah, Batman had a comic strip, all the way back in the 40s, and Professor Radium was one of the few villains from the core comics to appear. (It figures.) The comic strip story was essentially a remake of his origins, but now with a darker twist: his story starts the exact same way, until Radium has a chance encounter with a man planning to commit suicide. He “helps” him with his powers, and from that point on, instead of trying to fix his condition, Professor Radium decides to use his “Touch of Death” as a “Good Samaritan.” He begins bringing the peace and bliss of death to unhappy people, so they no longer have to endure the torture and pain of life. This version, too, was seemingly killed…and since this version never appeared again (his was the last story arc in the strips, and this take never carried over into mainstream), we can presume that death was permanent. I find both takes on Professor Radium to be surprisingly tragic, complex, and fascinating villains, especially for the time period. His occasional, albeit often minor, reappearances in more recent years have helped to ensure he isn’t COMPLETELY forgotten, but I really would like to see a proper new reinvention of this villain. He’s got a lot of potential that hasn’t been fully realized.

9.     The Spook.

In the 1970s, the Spook – real name Val Kaliban – was one of Batman’s most recurring villains. In his original format, the character was a former member of the mafia with a fascination with escape tricks and illusions; after faking his own death to escape from prison, he began using this knowledge to commit crimes – everything from finding masterful ways to escape from robberies, to selling “escape insurance” to caged crooks and busting them out for a hefty fee. Starting in the 80s, the Spook began popping up with far less frequency. Attempts were made in the 90s to reimagine the character; that version had him as a nameless black ops soldier who, traumatized by a mission that went horribly wrong, actually believed himself to be a ghost. It was an interesting, radical reinvention, but it never really went anywhere; future stories would feature Val Kaliban again, and no mention has been made of that second Spook since. As of now, the character has not been seen in the mainstream since 2006, when he was seemingly killed off during the events of the storyline “Batman & Son.” However, the Spook HAS appeared in some comics from spin-offs and crossovers, and is known for – both in-universe and in reality – going long periods of time without so much as saying “Boo” before popping up once more. I personally really like this character, but I guess there are just others I like more or have more nostalgia for.

10.  Tally Man.

The much-underappreciated Tally Man is a villain who I really wish I could love more than I do, if that makes sense. This somewhat theatrical gun-for-hire came from a tragic and disturbing childhood: his family was regularly harassed by a mobster who demanded they pay protection money for some sort of debt. Eventually, the boy that became Tally Man snapped and beat the mobster to death, after the man attacked his mother for not paying him. He was sent to prison, and in the intervening time, his mother killed herself, while his sister went insane. The boy became obsessed with the idea of debts not being paid, and turned to a life of crime: he acts as a sort of agent of Karma, in his own mind, collecting “pounds of flesh” for the highest-paying crooks from their enemies, their clients, and so on. I really love the character’s design and past, but the problem lies in his actual appearances. Tally Man first appeared in the immediate aftermath of the famous “Knightfall” saga. At that time, Bruce Wayne was out of commission, and the Batmen Tally Man faced were actually people taking his place while he recuperated. To me, that’s kind of cheating; it’s not quite the same when you’re facing an Imposter Batman, if you get my meaning. After these initial appearances, Tally Man quickly descended on the ladder of villainy: he ultimately just became little more than a stooge – an average gunman with kind of a cool name, effectively a mere pawn used by more popular rogues, most notably Two-Face. Heck, even his crazy costume was eventually eliminated, as a second Tally Man took his place, and was REALLY just a normal gunman with a cool name. There was nothing about the second one that made him any different from any normal gangster character. Since then, the character has totally disappeared. Apparently there were plans for him to appear in the DCAU, but that never came to pass. I really wish the character had been used better in the comics, and I hope he makes a comeback that fixes these issues.

And that concludes my list of Honorable Mentions for my Top 31 Favorite Batman Villains! As I said before, the countdown proper starts at midnight, just in time to ring in the New Year! I’m fairly sure the first choice on the list will be quite a surprise. ;)

HINT: …I seriously don’t have a hint for the first guy, just…I’m pretty sure you’ll be in absolute DISBELIEF at who it is. That’s all I can give you for now. I’ll do better next time. XD

[elektra-world]

In Too Deep

Summary: Ever since Sora’s accident, Jenna hasn’t been feeling the same. The groups goofiest and most lovable member battles with some inner demons that get the best of her, and she winds up hurting herself in the end.

POV: Jenna

Warnings: Anxiety, Depression, Insecurity, body shaming, verbal/emotional abuse, errr...minor injury? (Poor baby....)

With the groups temporary hiatus, Jenna had grown bored. So had Mr. Park, evidently, because he had become far more abusive towards anyone in the vicinity and with most of the members being away visiting family (except for Sora), Jenna had become his favorite target these past two weeks. Everyday, it was nothing but:

"You should go to the gym more and eat less because you are once again getting fat and unsightly."

"You're a weird and immature girl with horrible manners. How any man could be attracted to you is beyond me."

"You are the ugliest member of the group. The least you could do is lose weight so fans have something nice to look at."

"That pretty boy could do much better than you and you know it."

Her down time led her to her sitting and stewing in her own paranoid, insecure thoughts. All his harsh words zoomed through her mind at the speed of light. 

Today though had been the happiest day she's experienced the last few weeks. Her and Sora had gone out to dinner with their respective partners, along with K and Kim Tan and Sevens parents as a pre-wedding celebration. It felt good being with everybody and laughing again after being alone and inactive for so long.

Naturally though, by the end of the dinner, her intrusive thoughts reared its ugly head. Jenna caught a glimpse of Venus' name and text on Junhos phone. She wanted to go shopping with him. Her mind kept flashing back to the hug Venus gave him while Junho and Jenna were in a video call and Venus was unaware. Jenna then convinced herself Venus liked him and that at some point, Junho would leave Jenna. Her reasonable side kicked it in, though - she didn't want to be a super clingy and controlling girlfriend plus she trusted him and wanted Junho to have a life of his own outside of her, so she let him go - she had to unpack, anyways, and didn’t want to bore him.

Jenna knew she was being dramatic and paranoid, which made her feel even more crazy. Did she think he would cheat on her? No. Did she believe him when he told her how much he loved her or how beautiful she was? Yes. Still, her inner demons took pleasure in playing with her emotions and wreaking havoc in her mind - it really felt like a whole different, sentient entity inside of her and took advantage of her immaturity and lack of experience when it came to relationships.

Jenna thought back to an emotional phone call with Yua form a few days ago.

“You’re letting a couple of high school losers and a sociopath with little man syndrome make you feel unworthy of love. You’re the most lovable, genuine person I’ve ever known.” Yua had told her.

“M-maybe I should break up with him...Maybe he’s better off, you know? It’s not fair for him to have to worry and constantly reassure me because I’m some stupid insecure dumb dumb. I know it’s all in my head but he deserves better, Yuyu.”

Yua hollered on the other line, the sound of her smacking the microphone blasted through the speaker. “Yah, J! Don’t be such a fool! Junho is a grown man who knows what he likes and he chose you. not venus or whatever girl you’ve concocted in your head - he chose you and only you. Plus the way he looks at you is so...Sickeningly sweet it makes me want to barf a little bit. It’s a look of a boy who’s deeply in love and nobody can fake THAT.” 

it was an overreaction on her part and thankfully, she came to her senses thanks to the help of her member, who was always very understanding yet sensible and not afraid to show some tough love when needed.

“This stupid birth control.” Jenna muttered, kicking an empty box across her room. “Turning me into some emotional, moody mess.” The tears that had threatened to spill earlier in the car finally came out and she fell back onto her bed, letting out an exasperated groan, arms and legs flailing around wildly like a child throwing a tantrum.

After fifteen minutes, she stood up and headed downstairs, wanting to distract herself with unpacking more. She grabbed a particularly heavy box and started up the stairs but due to tears that still lingered and blurred her vision, she ended up taking a mistep, dropping the box as she lost her balance, her body twisting as she attempts to catch herself using the railing.

There was a sharp pain in her ankle and she cried even harder, feeling like a complete idiot now. Sora was just starting to fully heal from her accident so the group could finally work on their next comeback, and now Jenna had gone and hurt herself. It was too much for her and she lost it in that moment, laying on the cold tile floor and sobbing for a good half an hour. A part of her just wanted to lay there and wither away. Thankfully though - after getting all her pent up emotions out, she finally came to her senses and got her phone from her jeans pocket, calling for a taxi before pushing herself up and hobbling outside.

Mentions: Junho  (@trubluestar-offical​)

A/N: It’s just a lot for our poor girl to handle. She loves being busy and loves being around people (which she hasn’t been lately) and she really cares about her friends and family. Some past traumas involving her older brother (who she adores) kind of throws her for a loop and it tends to really screw with her mind when people she cares about are injured. Add on her new birth control and she’s a bit on the overemotional, dramatic side but our food loving little butthead will get her shit together eventually.

[flowerbeom]

What I Wouldn’t Give | Part 1: The Right Fit

Im Jaebeom x Female!Reader

Genre: Stylist AU. Fluff. Eventual Smut 

Warnings: Some swearing. 

Words: 3.2k

Concept:  A story where a heartsick, pining and ‘hopelessly in love with his stylist’ Jaebeom finds himself in an awkward situation in the house of the stylist who’s equally heart sick and hopelessly in love with him. But neither of them know… yet.

A/N: Please do enjoy soft, nervous Jae - one of his stronger forms. Chapter links will be in masterlist once all posted. 

Part 1: The Right Fit

Part 2: The Wrap Party

Part 3: Home

Song Mood: Sunny Days, Summer Nights by Sam Kim 

You had always hated the title 'Junior Stylist'. You hated the instant prejudice you would see in someone's eye when you were introduced, as if you couldn’t hold a candle to someone ‘senior’. You knew your skills were bar none and your eye for detail would be the very thing that would solidify your place in this industry. So, you were patient, working under creative directors and doing scut work until your fingers bled just so you would be seen; seen as worthy. 

And one day, you got it; you got your chance. You were pulled aside by the department lead and told you had been assigned to a debuting rookie group and their leader. Working in a small team, you would lead their style direction for the duration of their contract. They would be your avenue to explore your artistry, and he would be your canvas. But Im Jaebeom proved to be a challenge; to dress and for your heart. 

Era: Girls Girls Girls 

“Just put the damn jacket on, Jaebeom.” a face to face standoff played out in the middle of the dressing room, a clenched fist crushed the leather jacket in your hand; Jaebeom squaring you down. Hands lazily resting in his pockets, he tilted his head; the narrow in his eyes mirroring yours. Everyone had cleared the room only to leave Jackson sitting in the corner, mildly entertained by the stalemate he stole glances of over the top of his phone. 

“It’s not really my style.” Jaebeom sneered, smoothing an index finger over the sharp edge of his jaw. Closing the space between you, your eyebrow quirked when Jaebeom’s guard broke for a second; his eyes jolting open, neck flaring - your closeness rattling him momentarily. 

“Okay, leader-nim, let’s see what JYP’s opinion on the matter would be.” He forced his tongue through gritted teeth, chin jutting out; vexed. 

Shoving the garment into his tensed torso, you paused, “Or..” swallowing down the lump your heart had thrown into your throat, “You can put on the jacket.” 

He scoffed, visibly impressed with your tenacity but annoyed all the same. Hand quick to grip your wrist, his eyes wavered; darting from your intense stare to his hand back to your eyes. The sudden shot of electricity that passed through both of you knocked you both out of your stupor, Jaebeom quickly pulling the jacket from your grasp while you stumbled back, shoving both your hands into your back pockets. 

“You-you know, it’s not that.. Bad. I mean.. It’s okay.” Jaebeom stuttered, pressing down the collar, staring at himself in the mirror to avoid staring at you. Drawing in a deep breath before stepping to him, you arranged the jacket to sit better on his broad shoulders. 

“Seriously, are you for real.... “ Bewildered with the distance your hands had to travel to smooth out the jacket you failed to hear Jaebeom throw a question your way. Still playing with the jacket, you missed his voice again before he spun around, leaving your hands to rest on his collar bones, his face far too close for comfort. 

“What?” 

“Huh?” Shaken, you snapped your hands away from him, stepping back. 

“Before, you said was I “for real”, what was that all about?” Words catching in your throat, Jaebeom’s fingers fiddled with the zip on his jacket, eyes softer than before. 

“I-- ahh, well..” Your hand buried into your nape, rubbing the back of your neck as if it’d provide the right answer. 

“Two minute call!” Both your heads whipped to the door, the runner poking in to get the boys to head to the stage. Your eyes slowly met, unspoken words hung in the air; his knuckles brushing over yours as he stepped past you, both your breath hitching at the touch. Fuck. 

Era: Just Right

Watching the performance from the dressing room, Jaebeom’s smile seem to radiate through the television; the joy it exuded filled your chest with a warmth you couldn’t quite pinpoint, but it felt comforting. Unlike their previous comebacks, this one was lighter, filled with zest and cheer and dressing them as such was enjoyable to say the least. 

You debated how far you could take the concept, and how irritated Jaebeom would be as you made him try on outfit after outfit; but the utter look of happiness on their faces as they performed live was enough to quell those doubts. 

You hadn’t noticed just how widely you were smiling, or how your shoulders were bopping to the music that swirled around the room. Hana watched you from the side, analysing your face as she steamed a shirt. 

“What are you giggling about?” Pulled from your trance, you turned to your assistant; her quirked eyebrow enough to draw a sigh from your mouth. Your smile had dropped.

“It’s a fun song.” Picking up a shirt, you folded it carefully; placing into the crate, packing up to leave.

“We both know it’s not the song.” You wanted to slap the smirk off her face. “It’s Jaebeom.”

“What?!” 

“What what?! Tell me you don’t like him.” You wanted to slap her, smirk or not. Hana put down the steamer and caught your wrists before your hands could muzzle her. 

“Shhhh, shut up. What are you talking about? Stop it.” You were shaking, completely unprepared to be called out. 

“Ever since you put him in ripped jeans and a bomber jacket you’ve had heart eyes for the guy. Your ears prick when you hear his voice and you can smell his cologne from a hundred metres away. I swear I can hear your heart thump when he stands next to you.” You had lowered your hands, shoving them in your pockets; your lips were screwed into your cheek. You had nothing to say. 

“Have nothing to say?” Hana poked a finger into your shoulder. She was right. You had denied it when feelings for him started to stir in your gut and slapped down butterflies that flitted too closely to your heart. Jaebeom had etched his name onto your skin every time he grazed you, and you had lost the fight not to let it happen. 

“Let’s just pack up, okay.” Hana saw the acceptance in your eyes and said no more. But it wasn’t going to stop her from pushing you tell him how you feel, one day. Could be a day way off in the distance, but one day. 

Era: New Era

Dinner. Dinner was all that was on Jaebeom’s mind as he exited the elevator. Yours on the other hand was figuring out how to not lose your job. The stress that wreaked havoc on your face was enough to strip any thoughts of food when Jaebeom found you curled into yourself as he entered the hotel lobby. Back pressed to the wall, knees pressed to your chest, heel of your palm pressed to your forehead, phone pressed to your ear. 

Jaebeom crouched down in front of you, placing a timid hand on your knee to bring your eyes up to his. The crease between your eyebrows didn’t soften, but only transferred to etch between his. 

“Yep, yep - no, I understand. Yes.. yes. I’ll figure it out.” Hanging up the call, you placed your phone on the ground before burying your face into your hands. 

“What’s wrong?” Jaebeom’s voice was sweet, stained with concern and helped you breathe again. Pulling your hands down your face, you met Jaebeom’s eyes; his gentle, yours bloodshot. 

“The crate. The crate with all your clothes for this entire week of schedules. No one knows where it is. It's not in Seoul. It's not here. For all we know it fell off the plane mid transit and got eaten by a whale. No one knows!" You were rambling, and Jaebeom listened, kindly; intently. Your face returned to pool into your shaking palms, an exhausted groan muffled into your skin. 

“Argh, I have to go out and buy an entirely new wardrobe tonight. I have to practically stampede around Tokyo flashing credit cards like a crazy person. And Hana isn’t even here to help. What am I going to do?” Violently raking your fingers through your hair, you slapped your phone off the ground.

“I’ll come with you. I’ll help.” Eyes shooting up, sincerity was all that was painted on Jaebeom’s face. Holding out his hand, you gingerly took it; letting him help you stand. 

“Wh-why?” The question trembled off your lips before they haphazardly blew back the hair that had fallen over your face. Jaebeom tried his best not to giggle, composing himself with a hand rubbed under his nose. 

Trying not to risk sounding cheesy by sprouting out a line like “I don’t like seeing you stressed” or “I’d drop anything to help you out, because I just want to see you smile again”, despite it all being true, Jaebeom opted for reason.

“I have to make sure things go well. Fix problems, solve dilemmas, save the world. Leader things, you know.” 

And trying not to seem desperate by saying something like “I was hoping you’d say that” or “You’re the only one I need right now”, despite it all being true, you opted for logic. 

"Sounds good to me.” 

The static that buzzed between you as you explored Harajuku was palpable. The little knocks of hands against hands, or brushes of shoulders against shoulders drowned words in your throats and striped air from your lungs. The stolen looks over clothes racks and hidden smiles behind turned backs kept the thought of possible unemployment far from your mind as Jaebeom insisted on carrying every bag and constantly reassured you that everything was going to be okay. 

And it was, because he was with you. He even bought dinner. 

Era: Lullaby 

No one, not even Mark with his acrobatics or Bambam with his five hundred diverse dabs a day, could rip through their pants as well as Jaebeom could. Whether it was the inner stitching on the thigh, or the buttons that held it all together, you were always sewing up his pants back stage. 

At one point it stopped being annoying and became somewhat therapeutic. The small embarrassed smile on Jaebeom’s face as he handed over another pair of pants to repair was enough to bring the quiet joy you needed to sit in the corner and pull out a needle and thread. The simple offering of his sincere apology as he bit his lip was payment enough, no matter how many times he offered to buy you bubble tea for your efforts. Though you always found one tucked behind your bag before you left for the night. 

But alas, his pants still needed fixing and that’s exactly where you found yourself, sitting cross legged in the corner; hunched over a pair of black trousers, one headphone wedged in your ear. Singing along quietly to their new album as you pulled thread carefully through fabric; your fingers worked skilfully to fix Jaebeom’s mishap.

“Hyung, you’re staring.” Jaebeom sighed as he tipped his temple to rest against the door frame, Jinyoung meeting his side; handing him an iced coffee. 

“I know.” Replying through an exhale, he sunk lower into the door frame; lifting the straw to his lips. 

“She’s just sewing on a button.” Matter of fact, Jinyoung spoke before taking a sip of his chai latte. 

“Exactly, she’s just sewing on a button and I can’t stop staring.” Jinyoung cupped Jaebeom’s shoulder, a reassuring grip of his fingers made Jaebeom drop his head back. Peeling himself off the door frame, he spun on his heels; walking away from the room, away from you. 

“Are you ever going to tell her?” Jinyoung queried, hand still resting on Jaebeom’s shoulder. 

“No..” Jaebeom’s face slowly crumpled.

“No?” Jaebeom winced further at Jinyoung’s sharp tone.

“As if I could…” Unwilling to argue, Jinyoung merely offered Jaebeom a consoling pat on the back. There was no use debating the issue with him, he would simply deny the possibility of you ever loving him back; even if it was the furthest thing from the truth. 

Era: Focus On Me

You kept stealing glances from across the room. Straight back, head down, eyes burrowed into a book; Jaebeom had read for most of the day. Saved for the moments he spent with a make-up brush in his face, or limbs sliding into clothes you had curated for him; Jaebeom willingly lost himself in the world found on those pages, rather than the anxiety swirling in his mind. 

Lingering looks from over your shoulder were enough for Hana to flick your forehead with a harsh snap of her middle finger. Her pursed lips and narrow eyes drew you from your longing and back onto the earrings you were fiddling with. A violent shake of your head knocked you into focus.

“Jaebeom-ah, can you-- “ Holding the earrings in the palm of your hand, you turned to step to him; the wide expanse of his back momentarily distracting you; your step faltered before continuing to approach him. 

“Hmm, huh?” Looking down at the book cradled in his gentle hands, you saw no less than ten pages left for him to finish, and upon tilting your head to look into his eyes, you saw them furiously scanning the text; his face blank with fixation. 

You debated doing what you were about to, knowing you would regret it the second you touched him. Knowing how fast your heart would race, and how red your ears would turn; but call time was approaching and you needed him to be ready. Swallowing down a shaky breath, you tipped at the hip; leaning down to his shoulder. 

“I’ll just put these on for you, okay. Finish your book.” Merely a whisper, said too close to his ear; your breath fanned across his skin and you thought you heard him hitch. Taking his earlobe gently between your fingers, you swore you saw him flinch, his body tensing at the sudden touch. 

Holding the pin of the earring, you gripped his ear slightly tighter, “Don’t move, I don’t want to hurt you.” Jaebeom slowly exhaled, his body leaning back into the chair. You could feel your heartbeat on your skin; goosebumps pricked your arms and you were thankful your sleeves were hiding them. What you didn’t notice were the hairs on Jaebeom’s neck standing, or the vein in his temple flaring, or that he has stopped reading all together. 

After securing one earring, you put on another; spinning them so they sat just right. You also didn’t notice Jaebeom staring at you in the mirror, his eyes following you as you rounded the chair to place earrings onto his other ear. You were too busy trying to breathe.

You had been close before, but this, this was intimate.  You wanted to run, sprint into a closet and cower in the corner because you hated how much he affected you. Be professional. Yes, but it was hard when the person you worked with had your heart in his hand. 

“Two minutes!” You and Jaebeom whipped your heads to the door, the runner amused at this common occurrence. You stepped back, allowing Jaebeom to push back his chair. He slipped his arms into the jacket Hana held out for him and turned to the mirror. Eyeing the earrings you had ever so gently placed on him, his thumb lifted to slide down the chain of one of them and smiled before catching your eye in the mirror. 

He left the room not nearly quick enough for you to catch your breath, humming to himself and singing as he trailed down the hall. Hana was by your side and screwing an elbow into your waist before you could bring yourself down from the cloud his smile put you on. 

“So, are you going to let him?” Forehead creasing, eyebrow cocked; your face met hers with confusion. 

“Have you not listened to him this entire time?” Leaning against the make-up bench, Hana crossed her arms, one finger tapping impatiently against her forearm.

“What are you talking about?” 

“Are you going to let him? Let him love you?” Your hands slapped onto the chair in front of you and pushed it violently into Hana’s knees. She cursed and you cursed back, but she insisted that he was singing to you. That this entire debut, unit, album was him trying to confess to you. 

Ludicrous, improbable, utterly absurd; but as you watched him on the waiting room television, you entertained the notion for a second. That the way he was staring into the camera was how he wanted to stare at you. But you slapped yourself before you fell into that fantasy; hard enough for Yugyeom to ask what happened to your cheek when they came back. 

Era: Eclipse

[12:21pm] Y/N Stylist: What bet did you lose? 

[12:22pm] Jaebeom-Ssi: What do you mean?! I look good!

[12:25pm] Y/N Stylist: 1.That beret is for Bam’s Allure shoot. 2. I’m not even going to ask how you got it out of storage. 3. You look like an idiot.

[12:31pm] Jaebeom-Ssi: Perhaps. But I made you forget about that asshole from Div 3, didn’t I? Humour me, I totally rock it better than Bam.

[12:52pm] Y/N Stylist: Have a safe flight, Beom.  

Safe in the knowledge that he made you smile, Jaebeom slid his phone back into his pocket. Leaning back into his seat, he stretched his arms out; yawning as his muscles loosened before Mark slipped in beneath his arm. Nuzzling into Jaebeom’s side, Mark smiled cheekily as Jaebeom coiled his arm back, pushing him off playfully. 

“Excited to go home?” Mark cooed, Jaebeom raised a questioning brow. 

“We haven’t even left yet.”

“Yeh, but are you excited to come home?” Jaebeom’s face crumpled into confusion, mouth opening in question, palms up-turned: puzzled. 

“The wrap party, you idiot!” Mark jutted his shoulder into Jaebeom’s.

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Jaebeom sighed. “I’ve been called an idiot too many times today. But why are you talking about the wrap party now?” 

“Y/N.” Whispered, a little too closely into Jaebeom’s ear. Jaebeom’s silence edged Mark on.  

“Y/N will be there.” Mark smirked watching Jaebeom’s eyes widen.

“Everyone will be there.” Jaebeom spat out, trying to mask the excitement that stirred in his stomach.

Mark shimmied in his seat, clearing his throat teasingly. “Y/N never comes to wrap parties. But suddenly she’s coming to this one.” 

“And?” Jaebeom cocked his head, cracking a single bone is his neck; not nearly enough to alleviate his tension. 

“She’ll be there, potentially all dressed up - having a drink or two, dancing - maybe dancing with you, if you ask her to, this could be your chance. Who knows-” Jaebeom cut him off, standing suddenly and ripping his bag off the seat. 

“Who knows if she’ll even be there. Come on, we have to board now.” Shaking his head through a laugh, Mark watched Jaebeom storm off, visibly irked by the notion of acting on any of his feelings. By now, everyone knew your shared pining had developed into deep seated, intense, full blown 'I'd risk it all for you' love, but no one knew what exactly was taking you both so long to actually risk it all. Maybe all you needed was a nudge and a bit of liquid courage. 

[a-skirmish-of-wit-and-lit]

Book Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Harry Potter #7) by J.K. Rowling

I read a quote once that described nostalgia as "suffering caused by an unappeased yearning to return," and that got me thinking about books. About reading. About the proclivity for and frequency of revisiting.

It had me wondering about the sloshy, leaden weight that clunks deep in my chest each time I reach the final portion of a great book, of a beloved series like this one, because the truth is some stories dig their hooks in with an imaginative tug they shouldn't possess.

They burrow. Take up residence. Fleck the backs of my eyelids with a lambent, ethereal mist.

They also tend to transform goodbyes into envelopes that I keep unsealing, my fingers marking them into piles labelled "temporary."

Some books, like the Harry Potter series, are capable of compelling me back into their fantastical worlds with nary a whisper, with barely a wand-flick to reveal all I could be or have been missing in the interim. They cast an enchantment inside my head which is no weaker the twentieth time I experience it than it was the first.

WHAT A MARVEL, I can't help but think. WHAT A RARE TREASURE.

And despite each hesitant, savoring thumb I enact as I progress toward the end of another page of text, I'm somehow already longing to feel the story's magic feathering and swooping its way through me from the beginning even though I haven't arrived at the end of it yet.

Nostalgia, at least for me, has always been the binding power of an exemplary work of fiction. The beguiling temptress, so to speak.

It's the indescribable "thing" that holds my imagination prisoner at that first crack of spine. The invisible force which calls me back again...and again...and again, over time.

It's nostalgia which effectively splits my soul into a Horcrux of its own as I finish the Deathly Hallows this time because a part of me is determined to fix itself here permanently; entrapping me in this world, and with these characters, until the Pensieve of my love empties to the last drop. Impossible though that would be to achieve.

It's funny how age and perspective allows me to appreciate one of my favorite childhood adventures in new ways. To catch meaning where I once saw only clever words or comebacks. I see deeper into characters that I overlooked, never liked, loved too much. And those whom I should have taken to task more often for their faults. (She Who Must Not Be Named among them because **TRANS PEOPLE DESERVE LOVE, NOT JUDGMENT**)

I squint during House sortings now. I toss McGonagall extra points for every one of her sassy retorts because they slap, and they slap hard. EAT HER VERBAL BACKHANDS AND WEEP, UMBRIDGE. Hagrid is the one who should have kiddos named after him instead of those two others, do you hear me? And I live for Peeves and all the squeeeeeeing havoc he wreaks wherever he goes.

My everlasting pull towards this series comes less from the twists I know so well now, however, and more from the tempting familiarity I find waiting for me with each reread:

The Golden Trio infiltrates the Ministry, and I gasp. Dobby saves his friends then dies a free elf, so I cry. George loses an ear, Moody sacrifices his magical eye, Bellatrix is "you bitch'd" into death like the revolting witch that she is, and I cheer! Lupin, Tonks, and Fred are casualties in the Battle at Hogwarts. I still refuse to believe it's real to this day, that they're gone, but I mourn louder than Moaning Myrtle anyway. Dumbledore leaves a trail of confounding clues in his wake, leaving me scrunched and frowning. Ain't no bother denying it! The man is a headache, a mystery with bottomless sleeves; though, so, as it turns out is Severus Snape. CAN YOU BELIEVE? After all, who would've thought his greasy black heart had a sliver of love tucked underneath it all along...for Lily? (Not me, that's who. Not me.) It can't erase all his crimes by any means, nor can it excuse his awful treatment of Harry over the years, but I've got to admit, the gray complexity in his character is stirring! It forever imprisons me in intrigue, in sympathy he doesn't really deserve but I end up feeling regardless because empathetic is what I am and I make no apologies. *whispers: ALWAYS* Horcruxes or Hallows? Hallows or Horcruxes? SEARCH ME, HARRY. SEARCH ME. Somehow, I never think all the details behind Lord Voldemort's demise will come together until they do, and then...when it happens...when it finally goes down in all its green AVADA KEDAVRA glory...I lOsE mY fReAkInG mInD!!!

Anyway, the long-winded point I'm trying to make here is the hallmark of a good book/series for me is nostalgia. It's the unappeased ache I feel to head back to Hogwarts with Harry, Ron, and Hermione even as I'm still soaring on the back of a dragon through Gringotts alongside them. I don't need an owl or a letter to remind me to Apparate back to castle grounds after I finish.

Still spinning, all I have to do is close my eyes and I'm there. I'm one yearn away at all times as it is...

Perpetually on the cusp of returning, every day.

5/5 stars

**Follow me on Goodreads

[makeste]

on AFO and his intentions regarding his “heir”

I was going to do another big post responding to comments and asks and such, but then I ended up getting sidetracked by the very first pair of comments. so for now it’s just this. sorry ;;

@addermoray I think we do agree on a lot of stuff regarding AFO, but I think the main difference is that all of my AFO speculation hinges on the idea that he is eventually going to recover his full strength. Tomura is and has always been his pawn whom he planned on using to fuck with All Might. but an actual successor? idk, I could be completely wrong about this, but despite what he says, I just can’t see AFO voluntarily just giving up and passing on the torch for real.

first of all I don’t buy his diminished-quality-of-life argument. the dude is functionally immortal and has been around for like 200 years. he’s not going to call it quits after only six. not when he knows better than anyone the infinite variety of quirks out there, and that in all likelihood he can eventually find one capable of healing him. (and in fact, Ujiko will likely be getting his hands on the quirk-be-gone bullets shortly, so it probably won’t be long before he discovers what we already know about Eri’s quirk and its potential to restore AFO to full power.) and for that matter, not when he was still capable of fighting All Might at that level in Kamino. he’s clearly a far cry from done just yet, no matter what he says.

second, he’s also far too arrogant and self-serving to bequeath his legacy to anyone else. he views the world as being his for the taking. why would he give that up and let some dumb kid have all the fun instead? but what would be fun would be thoroughly warping and twisting that kid into his tool, and then unleashing him on an unsuspecting world for a while. that would be a lot of fun. but as a temporary thing, not as the new status quo. there is an inherent ‘this is bigger than I am’ type of wisdom in passing something down from yourself to someone else. an understanding that it continues beyond you. and I just can’t see someone like AFO being able to grasp that. it literally runs counter to his very name. one, not two. not him and Tomura. just him. he is, thematically, the complete antithesis of All Might and the other users of One for All. everything he does is ultimately for him and him alone. in the end it’s always for himself.

so I think the whole Tomura thing is just another example of that. Tomura is his little wind-up killing puppet. he gave him his own name not to pass on his legacy, but to label Tomura as his. so that in the end he can lay claim to all the havoc Tomura wreaks. I think we agree on that part. but I just think that once the dust settles and All Might is dead, he intends to step back in and get back to ruling the world from the shadows.

-- which, incidentally, is another reason I don’t think he’s serious about Tomura succeeding him; he knows Tomura well enough to realize that his damaged psyche will incline him more in the direction of simply destroying the world rather than taking it over. and AFO spent two whole centuries accumulating power and “restoring order” to the world. would he really just surrender all of that and let some brat destroy it all on a whim? that doesn’t seem to jive with the guy we saw in chapter 193 at all. I very much got the impression that that guy liked the world. because it was his. his own vast curated collection of quirks and loyal followers. all for him.

so yeah, my read on it is that he’s planning a comeback. I think it lines up with what we’ve seen of his personality, and it makes thematic sense as well -- more than ever after this latest arc, I can’t see Tomura being the final villain. it has to be All for One. he’s the Emperor Palpatine, whereas Tomura has always been more of a Kylo Ren.

anyway I kind of did the whole tangent thing yet again, so let me try to address a few last points real quick. regarding what AFO was hoping for when he got locked up: I think it’s important to remember that regardless of how comfortable he seems with his situation, prison wasn’t ever AFO’s plan A. he’s very good at adapting, and I think he’s made arrangements for Tomura’s “training” to continue even while he’s behind bars (again, gotta have those contingencies), but what happened at Kamino was unexpected. originally he intended to be there to keep an eye on all of this. the fact that he isn’t opens the door to other things also not going quite as planned. you’re probably right, I think, about AFO intending for Tomura to go through this training and character development process to some degree. he’d probably be delighted to hear that Tomura destroyed the hands and no longer appears to need them in order to sustain his anger. but at the same time I think there are things in play that AFO is not aware of and not anticipating. the influence of the rest of the League being one of those factors.

and I also think he’s underestimating how much of a wild card Tomura might be now that he finally has his memories back. the hope is that he goes through this leveling up process and in the end becomes stronger and focuses up and finally becomes dangerous enough to be a real threat to All Might and the rest. but the tradeoff is that when you purposely foster an agent of chaos, if you do your job right, eventually said agent will become impossible for even you to control. in other words, Tomura has agency now that he lacked before. and AFO -- who has already screwed himself over with his own arrogance in the past more than once -- might have just done so again without realizing it.

lastly, as for whether or not he actually planned what happened to Tenko, that’s the million dollar question. right now it seems like it could go either way. but as I’ve said, the whole thing just played out a little too perfectly from AFO’s perspective for me to believe he didn’t have a hand in it. he may have lucked out with some things, like Kotaro’s whole being-terrible thing, but he might also have helped fan those flames in subtle ways. and if nothing else, he probably had contingency plans if this didn’t pan out.

but as it happens, it played out even better than he expected. and at the end of the day it probably wasn’t too hard to predict that if he suddenly gave an abused kid a quirk that instantly destroyed anything and anyone he touched, it was bound to end in tragedy. that’s really the most sinister thing about the whole plan, in hindsight. how shockingly simple it all was. he probably thinks it was very elegant. masterpiece, indeed.