#through shenanigans of epic proportions

[borscht-and-beets]

Okay so I’ve talked about needing new mlp ocs for a while now because the previous ones I’ve had were heavily integrated into a world made predominantly of my ex’s ocs and I felt bad for using them so meet cracked pot and rose petals! Two rival shopkeepers who may or may not be a LITTLE bit enemies to lovers with each other, as a treat ;)

[cod-dump]

Ghost torments soap with plastic spiders and cockroaches until soap gets revenge with plastic snakes, causing a childhood-trauma fueled meltdown of epic proportions. Price makes them apologise to each other and bans any and all animal-related pranks

Ghost isn’t one to scream. So when Price heard the man shriek he came running in, gun drawn. He saw the plastic snake and Ghost on top of a cabinet. Ghost never went into detail on the extent of the abuse his father put him through, but he knew about the snakes.

Price grabs the plastic snake and tosses it into the hall before helping Ghost down from the cabinet. Later he had Soap and Ghost in his office, both refusing to look at one another as Price stood in front of them. They just both glared at his desk, not bothering to even look at Price.

“Boys…”

Ghost grunts in reply but Soap stays silent.

“Look, let’s just apologize to each other and be done with this!”

Ghost grunts again, not moving. Soap turns and glares at him.

“He started it!”

“I don’t care that he started it! I’m finishing it! No more scaring each other!”

Ghost grunts and Price sighs, “Simon… Use words.”

“Bitch.”

Soap gasps, “Bit— THAT IS IT!”

Soap stands and rips off a bracelet from his wrist. He slams it down on the desk in front of Ghost. Ghost blinks before tearing up.

“You kept it?”

“Of course I fucking kept it! But that doesn’t matter now!”

Ghost is fixated on the bracelet, “You kept it…”

Soap tears up, “Why wouldn’t I?”

Price watches silently as the two cry. Well, Soap started crying while Ghost looked like he was trying not to. He didn’t have to do anything as they start apologizing to each other. Soap had grabbed Ghost and now they were hugging, Ghost starting to cry some.

Price clears his throat, “No more plastic animal pranks.”

“Yes, Captain.”

Price watched the two leave, Soap snatching off the bracelet off the desk before they got up. Price let’s out a deep breath. He gives it a week or so before shenanigans start back up.

[codenameredkrystalmatrix]

Feline Shenanigans (Miguel O'Hara x Fem!Reader)

Chapter 4

"Nice!"

You correctly completed a circuit, and the next layer of the puzzle clicked into place. Another magic-based component was revealed. You had to scan through both the conjugation tables and magic guides to make sense of it.

Wait...this symbol represented a verb. But it wasn't in the future or conditional tenses, but in the past. The puzzle had reacted to being activated. In this state, it wasn't that it 'will' or 'would' transform someone into a cat.

It already had.

As your blood ran cold, it all started falling into place. The strange look in his eyes and his food preferences made sense. You hadn't been imagining his oddly correct responses at all when you spoke to him.

Scrambling, you researched the recent supervillain battles. You normally didn't look these things up. Seeing your mother in full villainess mode...would be hard to stomach. Sure enough, there was a recent log of a successful 'operation' carried out on on a certain. Spiderman-2099.

Not even from this universe.

A hero trapped in a body not his own and away from the people who needed him. And his stay stretched on because of your utter naivete. This was an oversight of truly epic proportions. The multiverse was no surprise to you (your mother had proven its existence and had been continuing the investigations for a while), but the personal implications...did more than they really should have to drain your spirits.

Just for a minute, you headed back upstairs. The apartment was too small- too cold. There would never- should never have been a pet in here. You were negligent- unobservant. Things would simply be returning to how they'd meant to be. You, alone.

Bringing your hands up to mute your sobs, you cried, and cried and cried. Why couldn't he have just been a normal cat?

After a while, you heard his little footsteps. A check-up, you guessed.

"You...should have signalled me, Spiderman."

He froze. Then he walked to the side of the chair, and placed a paw on your foot. Small comfort, really.

Out of habit, you'd leaned down a bit to pick him up and snuggle his fur. But you couldn't be selfish. Steeling your nerves, you headed up to the kitchen, brewed your strongest pot of coffee, and prepared to crack the stupid thing wide open.

Past trembling fingers and swimming vision, you figured the last component out. The glow hurt your eyes. The little device rose into the air, reconstructing itself into a power source for...exactly the kind of teleporting machine your mother had built.

This felt highly orchestrated.

You'd found your method of returning him. Now to establish a motive so you could tie up any loose ends. You input the date Cinn-Spiderman-2099 had entered the house into the database, your mother's code for Calypso's magical signature, and radiation data for effects on the environment in the city.

The story unfolded. Several Spidermen had arrived to contain an anomaly, including him. He'd been separated from the team during combat and lured towards Calypso's stakeout location. She shot two bursts of magic- one that transformed him, and another that destroyed his own teleportation device. Despite his struggles, she managed to attach the collar in his new form. Then, there was a pause (them communicating, no doubt), after which he ran off to your address.

But...why?

Her movements traced back to...your mother's...cell. That was where she'd gotten the puzzle from. But it seemed the cameras had been oh-so mysteriously tampered with during their planning phase. You'd have to grill her once the most important things were out of the way. Spiderman likely only received the broad strokes of the situation. A headache was already starting.

Absentmindedly, you'd reached out to pet Cinnamon and soothe your nerves. But your palm only swiped at air. The hero-turned-feline was reviewing the footage a respectful distance away. When he sensed you staring, he turned to acknowledge you.

"Habit. My apologies, Spiderman. If it helps, I'm not professionally affiliated with DockOck."

A long moment featuring his stare. Padding over, he swished the tip of his tail over the 'M' on your keypad. You entered that, then he followed up with the 'I'- then, 'G', 'U', 'E', 'L'.

"Miguel?"

He stared at the panel, then you.

"Ah. I take it that's your name."

A head dip.

"Pleased to meet you, Miguel. Let's get you back to where you need to be."

Deep breaths. Deep breaths.

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6

[mlbigbang]

2022 Rare Pair Fic Rec List

It's the end of the year which means it's finally time for the ML Big Bang's yearly fic rec lists! We're really excited to bring you our contributors' favourite fics started this year to supply you with plenty of reading material while you're waiting for the Big Bang fics' publication in January.

Alya/Nino

Strangely Familiar by @sunfoxfic 79,676 words, Teen, 30/30 chapters

Alya Césaire’s life is perfect. Indeed, between the success of the Ladyblog, how well she’s doing in school, and the fact that she’s a superhero who has never bore the weight of a crisis of epic proportions, her life almost couldn’t be better. Almost. But Alya has always been a go-getter, and so she’ll chase after that perfect life if it kills her. Which is how she ends up rushing to move out of her father’s apartment and in with Marinette, Adrien, and a complete stranger: Nino Lahiffe. And in fact, her life does seem perfect — she and Nino are fast friends. They spend a lot of time together and get to know each other really well. But in the end, fortunate situations will bear unfortunate truths, and she learns things about herself that aren’t quite comfortable. Like I said, though: Alya has always been a go-getter, and she won’t let new feelings deter her from chasing after her perfect life.

"DJWifi centric with great Core 4 dynamics as well, really interesting Nino & Alya characterisation and interactions and identity shenanigans and aaaahhhhh"

Trust your instincts by @ultrakart 2,380 words, General, 1/1 chapter

Alya has the instincts of a fox. Nino finds it hilarious.

"Funny animal instincts DJWifi fic. Perfect :D"

Laughing at her Laughter by @sunfoxfic 634 words, General, 2/2 chapters

Now that Nino knows Alya has the Fox Miraculous permanently, they're able to try something they always wanted to do: Switch Miraculous. For one of them, at least.

"A very sweet kwami-swap! AND it has beautiful bonus art!"

Pigs and Purposes by @azuriteartist 863 words, General, 1/1 chapter

Nino and Alya discuss responsibility and sacrifice.

"We stan kwami swaps so much and this conveys so much with so little."

Adrien/Nino

in which Adrien braids his boyfriends hair by @ck2k18 986 words, General, 1/1 chapter

"I could do your hair for you,” Adrien offered. “I-if you wanted.” Nino turned to look at him. “You want to cut my hair?” Adrien shook his head. “Not exactly. I mean, I could try but I don’t think you want me to, unless you want to end up bald,” he joked. “I was thinking I could braid it.”

"Adrinino is so good and it's so sweet!!! I love a good ole hair doing fic!!! (especially when there's talk of future kids!)"

Marinette/Alya

Is it chill that you're in my head? by @bring-the-storm 8,217 words, Teen, 1/1 chapter

Alya stared at the picture plastered across the homepage of every single tabloid and news site, whispering every curse she could think of under her breath. SHOCKING SECRET ROMANCE BETWEEN LADYBLOGGER AND PARISIAN SUPERVILLAIN REVEALED!!! the headline announced, casually shouting the words she had been dreading for all of Paris to read. --- Alya had always assumed that someday Paris would discover that she had secretly been kissing their most wanted vigilante, but she had never thought it would happen so soon. As the domino effects of her relationship with Ladybug go spiraling through her life, Alya turns her sights towards the one responsible: the elusive superhero Hawkmoth. AKA Someone outs Alya and her girlfriend so she retaliates by deciding to take down Hawkmoth 

"A very enjoyable read! As the tags say, it's basically an episode of a show; it's a bit funny, a bit plotty, a bit shippy. A very clever story!"

Marinette/Kagami

We Don't Need Roses by @coffeebanana 5,308 words, Teen, 1/1 chapter

Kagami’s days at the tattoo shop have gotten a lot more exciting since the flower shop opened up next door, bringing Marinette into her life. But no matter how close the two seem to be growing, Kagami can’t help but notice that something is holding Marinette back.

"Marigami. Mainly fluffy, but there's some angst that really rounds it out. Tattoo parlor/flower shop AU. What I liked most about it was the characters backstories, especially Marinette. Also Kagami is a useless lesbian."

Marinette/Chloé

the memories that you went and tossed away by @sunfoxfic 4,965 words, Teen, 1/1 chapter

Marinette Dupain-Cheng suffered from an accident that caused amnesia. Now that lycée has started, she's back in school, and Chloé is trying to make sense of her own problems, but Dupain-Cheng keeps getting in the way, and she can't figure out why. It's fine; everything's fine.

"An angsty, one-sided crush story that is satisfying and enjoyable, even without a happy ending. It is very well written!"

Alya/Kagami

darling (the composer has stepped into fire) by @theladyfae 1158 words, General, 1/1 chapter

Kagami likes Alya. She still isn't sure whether Alya likes her or not. This is a problem, when Alya's mere presence flusters her more than it should.

"READ FOR EXQUISITE GAY PINING"

Adrien/Lila

A Little White Lie by generalluxun 1,199 words, General, 1/1 chapter

A nervous Lila Rossi shows Adrien her room, and things take an unexpected turn.

"Wonderfully written and deeply emotional, the way you can expect from his fics. Short, with a twist that hits hard for maximum impact. A must-read for all of us who don't like Lila."

Luka/Chloé

broken guitar (with a little c minor sting) by noirshitsuji 2,175 words, Teen, 1/1 chapter

For the White Elephant Exchange at the Miraculous Writer's Guild: Give the LB and CN miraculouses to two characters (who aren't Marinette and Adrien). *** “Has nobody ever warned you about adopting strays, Couffaine?”

"The dynamic of Luka and Chloe in this is tasty and I have grown to be extremely fond of the writer's particular style. They're very good at subtext and insinuation and nuance."

Luka & Marc (QPR)

just wanna stay for the night by @asadweeghostie 246 words, General, 1/1 chapter

He keeps trying to not touch them, like little love notes as he eyes his favourite one. Lyrics about love and friendship written next to his keyed notes.

"There's something about this fic that always feels like home to me. I'm aware that this is a queerplatonic relationship, but the way it's written and how it's talked about brings up the possibility for a future romantic relationship, so I feel that maybe it's more fitting here. This author is one of my favorites; the way they write and express relationships is so endearing."

NSFW works

Félix/Kagami

Blood Will Tell by @sunfoxfic 30,352 words, Mature, 11/11 chapters

Kagami Tsurugi is pregnant. More precisely, Kagami Tsurugi is pregnant and Félix Fathom is the father. After spending months as "friends with benefits," neither knows what to do, and both are panicking in their own emotionally suppressed ways. And as the worst happens — both in their heads and at their hands — they uncover more than they thought they could handle; but the story is not over, and what doesn't kill Kagami only makes her freakishly motivated to be better tomorrow.

"A raw fic that is exploring accidental teenage pregnancy and all that comes with it. It is gently but realistically showing the often-glossed over discussions about abortion, while not straying too dark and being very "readable". The prose is gorgeous as well!! Chlonette: An angsty, one-sided crush story that is satisfying and enjoyable, even without a happy ending. It is very well written!"

Luka/Adrien

I've Got Friends on the Other Side by @inkmousey 6,796 words, Explicit, 1/1 chapter

Father Luka only tries his best to be a devout servent of The Lord. Adrien, a Succubus, wants to see Father Luka on his knees saying his name like a prayer instead.

"I love subverting expectations and this fic does it more than once!!!"

charge de fin de soirée by @leafweaverryn 5,627 words, Explicit, 1/1 chapter

During a late night patrol, Chat Noir finds Luka at a laundromat working on washing everything he's got. The hero takes the opportunity to air out some dirty laundry of his own…

"Such an amazing and thrilling Lukadrien fic!"

[venusiancarbondioxide]

okay i actually have a strong-ish idea for an original project that i want to talk about bc i have thoughts and feelings and excitement for it. see below for gay arthuriana and Two Bastards In Love!

so as a known liker of fate/typemoon, i spend a lot of time thinking about what we can loosely call "canonical arthuriana" (there's not really a set arthuriana canon). and as i was looking at the galahad wikipedia page for the umpteenth time and thinking about his supposed chastity and definite lack of love interest, i thought about it for a second and was like "...okay so he's totally gay, right???" and is there canon evidence for that? not really, but i think it would be interesting, so it's canonical to me now. i just think that opens a lot of interesting doors! his whole character in the canon is very...bland, in the sense that he's just the Best Knight Ever and not shown to have much internal struggle, but bastard son of the Best Knight In The Land dedicates his whole life to being holy and perfect and proving himself worthy to wider society? that's something, especially when you add in the stuff about "i am judging my father for the sin of extramarital sex (which is not really what happened between lancelot and galahad's mum elaine, but he doesn't figure that out until way later) when i am a full blown homosexual, which is seen as just as bad in our society." there's a judgemental and hypocritical and bitterly self-righteous side to this stubborn idiot, but also he's so earnest. so serious. thoughtful and introspective and gentle. a defender of the defenseless. a bit of a goofball and an airhead, once he lets his guard down. galahad du lac has Layers to me.

and as i was thinking this, i knew any story with him needed a love interest so that some of the queer stuff could be unpacked with another person. i was thinking maybe percival because canonically they're pretty close, but you know who else is the bastard child of a famous member of arthuriana who craves external approval and status while also being fundamentally transgressive in one way or another? mordred!! and mordred is a hothead of epic proportions, impulsive and moody and mean as shit when he wants to be. he's also very passionate, confident, a jokester and a guy in love with being alive who will always help someone in need (even if he's calling you a moron the whole time). he feels every emotion all the way through, and does what he thinks is right no matter the cost.

as far as backstories: galahad is raised in corbenic as a bastard whose father is officially Unknown (but everyone with eyes knows it's lancelot), half in his mother's castle with her and her extended family, and half in an abbey run by his aunt. after some shenanigans (baby galahad runs away from home when he's locked in a room in the abbey; this happens because lancelot is recovering from one of his canonical insanities in corbenic and everyone agrees that seeing baby galahad would make it worse), the lady of the lake finds out that this is lancelot's kid swimming in her lake and officially adopts him as a grandson and makes him galahad du lac. the lady of the lake is easily the most normal adult in his young life. everyone else says stuff like "god told us he's the special grail boy so we should send him up to the mountains to slay the local dragon without any weapons." galahad's a grandma's boy for real. he doesn't eat fish because his grandma, the lady of the lake herself, personally cares about every fish and he's not going to eat his grandma's friends. he gets the lady of the lake's blessings, of course, and insists that being adopted as the lady of the lake's grandson is unrelated to lancelot being her adopted son in public. in private? he knows, and is pissed as hell that lancelot refuses to acknowledge him because his father should own up to his mistakes. <-thoughts of a guy who doesn't know what elaine of corbenic did to lancelot) and mordred? the result of arthur falling in love and having an affair with one of the nine sisters of avalon during his engagement to guinevere (a woman he's met all of once at this point; later he is genuinely in love with her). morgan, the head of the sisters, queen of orkney, and also arthur's biological half-sister, agrees to raise mordred as one of her sons. king lot formally adopts him and thus mordred grows up as a prince of orkney, but everyone knows that he's not biologically an orkney royal. morgan gives him the lo down very early on and he's convinced that by earning his place at the round table and being the bravest, coolest knight on earth, arthur will accept him as son and heir and make him prince of camelot. this...is not going to happen, lol.

mordred and galahad meet during shenanigans, after which galahad leaves home to be his squire. they bond while traveling and after some deeper conversations about their aligned sense of justice and the fact that they're an iconic comedy duo and about being bastards, they become a certified team. mordred is going to help galahad fulfill his grail destiny, which will also obviously fix everything with his parents, and galahad is going to help mordred become prince of camelot. that's not going to go according to plan, of course, but they're still in it together.

i have so many other ideas (did you know the holy grail here isn't actually holy? this ruins galahad's perception of his life btw) but i'm going to stop bc it's late and i need to work tomorrow. to separate them from their fate counterparts, galahad stuff will be tagged galahad du lac and mordred stuff will be mordred le fae, but i think the context will make it obvious when i'm talking fate or talking about this. i really need to name this wip stuff, but later. not now. i am so sleepy now.

[catonablog-blog-blog]

I’m Rufus T. Flywheel, attorney at law and proud partner of the prestigious law firm, Flywheel, Shyster & Flywheel. Join me as we delve into the intricacies of one of our most astounding legal victories - the case of Charade v. Shenanigans. Charade v. Shenanigans was a landmark case that captivated the legal community and showcased the brilliance and prowess of our legal team. The case revolved around a complex web of deception, fraud, and intrigue that tested our skills and expertise to the limit. But with dedication, perseverance, and a dash of legal genius, we emerged victorious, securing a win that left our opponents reeling. The Origins of the Case The origins of Charade v. Shenanigans can be traced back to a seemingly innocuous business deal gone awry. Charade Industries, a reputable conglomerate known for its integrity and ethical practices, entered into a partnership with Shenanigans Inc., a shadowy corporation with a dubious reputation. What started as a promising collaboration soon spiraled into a nightmare of deceit and treachery. Shenanigans Inc. had allegedly engaged in a series of underhanded tactics to undermine Charade Industries, including misrepresentation, breach of contract, and intellectual property theft. As the dispute escalated, it became evident that the only way to resolve the matter was through the court system, setting the stage for a legal battle of epic proportions. The Legal Strategy When Charade Industries approached Flywheel, Shyster & Flywheel to represent them in the case, we knew we were facing a formidable opponent. Shenanigans Inc. had a team of high-powered lawyers known for their aggressive tactics and unscrupulous practices. But we were undaunted, for we had a secret weapon in our arsenal - our unparalleled legal brilliance. Our legal strategy in Charade v. Shenanigans was twofold. First, we meticulously analyzed the evidence and built a rock-solid case based on facts, precedent, and irrefutable logic. We left no stone unturned in our quest for justice, poring over every document, contract, and communication to uncover the truth behind Shenanigans Inc.'s nefarious deeds. Second, we leveraged our courtroom expertise and persuasive skills to present our case with precision and flair. Led by yours truly, Rufus T. Flywheel, our legal team masterfully crafted arguments, cross-examined witnesses, and delivered closing statements that left the judge and jury spellbound. With each day of the trial, our reputation as legal virtuosos grew, earning us the respect and admiration of our peers. The Turning Point As the trial of Charade v. Shenanigans unfolded, it became clear that the tide was turning in our favor. Our meticulous preparation, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication to our client's cause had put us on the path to victory. But it was a dramatic turning point in the case that sealed our triumph and underscored our reputation as legal legends. During a key cross-examination, I, Rufus T. Flywheel, exposed a critical inconsistency in the testimony of Shenanigans Inc.'s star witness. Through a series of relentless questions and skillful maneuvering, I unraveled the witness's credibility, casting doubt on the veracity of Shenanigans Inc.'s entire defense. The courtroom buzzed with anticipation as the witness stumbled and faltered, ultimately crumbling under the weight of their own deception. The moment was electric, as the judge and jury watched in awe at the masterful display of legal prowess. The tables had turned, and Shenanigans Inc.'s case lay in ruins, a shattered facade of lies and deceit. In that instant, our victory was all but assured, and our reputation as the premier legal firm in the land was cemented for eternity. The Verdict After weeks of intense courtroom drama and legal jousting, the moment of reckoning arrived - the verdict in Charade v. Shenanigans. As the judge read out the decision, there was a collective hush in the courtroom, a palpable tension that hung in the air. And then, the words we had been waiting for echoed through the room - In favor of the plaintiff, Charade Industries. A wave of relief and jubilation swept over our team as we savored the sweet taste of victory. Our client, Charade Industries, embraced us with gratitude and appreciation, acknowledging our unwavering commitment to their cause and our unmatched legal acumen. Shenanigans Inc., on the other hand, was left to ponder the consequences of their actions, reeling from a defeat that would echo through the corridors of legal history. The Legacy of Astounding Legal Brilliance As we reflect on the case of Charade v. Shenanigans, we are reminded of the power of truth, justice, and unwavering dedication to the rule of law. Our victory in this landmark case is a testament to the enduring legacy of Flywheel, Shyster & Flywheel, a legacy built on integrity, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of justice. For me, Rufus T. Flywheel, and my esteemed colleagues at Flywheel, Shyster & Flywheel, the case of Charade v. Shenanigans will forever stand as a shining example of our astounding legal brilliance. It is a reminder that in the face of adversity, deceit, and betrayal, the light of justice will always prevail, guided by the steady hand of those who dare to champion the cause of truth. As we look to the future, we do so with renewed determination and unwavering resolve, ready to take on whatever challenges come our way. Our reputation as legal virtuosos is unshakable, our commitment to our clients unwavering, and our passion for the law unending. Flywheel, Shyster & Flywheel - where astounding legal brilliance is not just a slogan, but a way of life. In conclusion, the case of Charade v. Shenanigans stands as a testament to the power of justice, the triumph of truth, and the enduring legacy of Flywheel, Shyster & Flywheel. Join us as we continue our journey towards excellence, integrity, and the pursuit of legal greatness, one case at a time. Thank you for reading, and until next time, remember - in the world of law, brilliance shines brightest in the hands of those who dare to dream, to fight, and to win.

[grimandgrimmer]

Dear Grimandgrimmer: Twitter shenanigans //tw// Bullying, Suicide, self harm

Today has been a complete emotional rollercoaster. I can't even handle the overflow of drama that unfolded on Twitter. It felt like a battleground, and I, Mark Gregory Slaughterhouse, the misunderstood emo soul, found myself right in the middle of it all.

It all started innocently enough; I innocuously logged into Twitter to share my latest angsty playlist and express my profound thoughts on the unfairness of the world. Little did I know however a certain Twitter user known who we shall call A popped up on my feed.

You see, User A posted about bread, and if you know anything about me. I HATE BREAD, so I expressed my hatred of bread and with an overzealous love for bread A took it upon themselves to start a hate campaign against me. They claimed I didn't understand the essence of bread. Called me names, accused me of stalking them and called a wave of users to attack me.

An avid defender of A who we shall call B, started accusing me of being gay(which im not, my twin brother is though) and well… I couldn't just let this slide. So, I clutched my mouse and passionately engaged in what can only be described as a Twitter war of epic proportions. And by that i mean, i called their favourite genshin character bad and claimed that their gaydar was faulty

But here's the kicker, they got so offended and so enraged they started advocating for me to kill my self in multiple ways, and started preaching for me kill myself…The intensity of this battle couldn't have been more intriguing, as they had been preaching about me being a child and a stalker, yet they felt comfortable enough to tell me to kill myself on their PUBLIC PROFILE where they talk about wanting to kill their self, with their face visible. So it lead me to the conclusion that they where clearly a sad and depressed toddler craving attention of any kind. 

Yet, within the chaos of it all, I couldn't help but feel a strange mix of sadness and sorrow. I knew I was fighting for more than just bread preferences; I was standing up for the freedom to express oneself without judgement. No one should be shamed for finding solace in hating bread.

And so, Blog, amidst the turmoil, I stayed true to my bread hating roots. And well i blocked them. And the other one, what was nice though that user C appologised for their friends horrible words, they where truly kind and i hope they make better friends. Heh… hope thats not an emotion i’ve felt in a while, ever even.

Tomorrow, I'll slide back into my dark corner of the internet, reminding myself that social media can sometimes be a double-edged sword. Through it all, I hope that one day, people will understand the nuances of the soul, like our emotions, cannot be confined within defined boundaries or labels.

Until next time, netizens, remember: even in the midst of the storm that is Twitter drama, let your darkness and power shine through.

Despair and darkness,

Mark Gregory Slaughterhouse

[pulsdmedia]

The Week Ahead 11/6-11/12

Autumn is in full fall swing, and as it gets cozier, it's also getting deep into celebration season! Before you start defrosting the turkey, relax in the seasonal feels with a few parties, sample sales, and other shenanigans...

$119: Tuna Cutting Ceremony With 4 Hr Premium Open Bar & Eats

Helmed by Master Sushi Chef Robby Wijaya, Wasabi is hosting their annual captivating Live Tuna Cutting Ceremony, where Chef Wijaya's genius shines through, offering an authentic experience that culminates in pure delicious delight. Picture this: a massive tuna, carved before your very eyes using traditional techniques. The succulent meat is then transformed into show-stopping bites, whether in the form of rolls, sashimi, or other swoon-inducing creations. But there's more! Expect a sublime, curated selection of premium libations that will flow for 4 glorious hours. Get ready for an evening of jaw-dropping scenes and flavors that will leave you full, but yearning for more...

Ramy Brook Sample Sale

Contemporary womenswear brand Ramy Brook is putting on a sample sale of epic proportions! Expect flouncy, floral frocks and sophisticated, structured jackets that will have you heading into fall and winter looking and feeling your absolute best!

$49 Ticket: 3.5 Hours Of Unlimited Tastings, 100+ Wines

Delicious autumnal enchantment awaits at the 2023 Brooklyn Wine Festival, complete with 3.5 Hours of Unlimited Tastings of 100+ Red, White, Rosé, and Sparkling Wines, meticulously sourced from all over the world! Gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignons, Chiantis, Pinot Grigios, Viogniers, and everything in between from brands like Pumphouse Wine, Amour Geneve, Pale Moonlight Wine, Aveleda, and so much more await, each poured into a souvenir tasting glass that you can treasure long after the festivities are over. Suffice to say, your taste buds are in for a dreamy treat!

Stan Herman Fashion Book Launch

On any given day, more people will be wearing Stan Herman than any other designer in America. But being the most acclaimed uniform designer of our time is only a part of Herman’s life. In Uncross Your Legs: A Life in Fashion, Herman reflects on his inimitable story.

$39 Ticket To A 4 Hour Food Festival With 30+ Top Restaurants

Back for another year of gourmet deliciousness, waterfront views, and energetic weekend vibes, The 13th Annual Taste of The Seaport Food Festival has returned! We're talking fresh seafood delights from SUteiShi, West Coast goodies from Malibu Farm, scrumptious fare from Industry Kitchen, Italian charms from Il Brigante and more. Choose wisely, or get another tasting card, available for purchase on site! Soak in the sunshine and revel in the end-of-summer feeling as you mix, mingle, and sway to the sounds of music, filling the air alongside the buzz or hungry New Yorkers filling their bellies with the finest fare...

Science vs. Fiction: Our Universe

Nobel Laureate Kip Thorne and award-winning artist Lia Halloran head to Pioneer Works to launch their book, The Warped Side of Our Universe. Before and after the conversation, join Pioneer Works in the garden for stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of NY, and food by Eat Off Beat.

[tumbledfreckles]

Ooohh! What about Jily/Marauders drunken shenanigans? *wiggles eyebrows mischievously* 😏😏😏😝

Max I don't even know how long ago you sent me this, I know it's been too long. But I was waiting for inspiration, and this isn't quite drunken, but it is a party and they've had some drinks so I'm hoping it's close enough, because I love it and it rounds out my three drabbles this weekend and uses my trope of the moment - names. I hope you enjoy it.

“He’s just so oblivious.”

“I know.”

“He’s infuriating.”

“I know.”

“It’s like he doesn’t even have a fucking clue.”

“Lily, I know.”

Lily cast a sidelong glance at Sirius, who sat next to her on the windowsill, on the edge of one of the wildest parties that the Gryffindor Common Room had seen in her seven years there. To say they’d gone nuts after winning the House Cup was an understatement of epic proportions.

“Sorry,” she huffed with a sigh. “I know you’ve heard this before.”

“From both sides,” SIrius shook his head darkly. “You two are driving me crazy.”

“It’s him!” Lily protested. “You say he feels the same, but why won’t he do anything about it?”

“After you turned him down all those times?” Sirius raised an eyebrow. “Why don’t you do something about it?”

“After I turned him down all those times?” She met his pointed gaze with one of her own.

“Fair enough.” Sirius thought for a second. His face lit with a grin. “Wait, I know.”

Lily felt afraid.

Very, very afraid.

“I feel like I shouldn’t ask.”

Sirius tutted, “Now, now, don’t act like you're not desperate for my mate there.”

They both turned toward the bloke in question, clear across the common room, who was currently high fiving Remus as they won their third game of beer pong against the Prewett twins. His smile lit up his face, his eyes danced and there was just the slightest flash of toned abdominals as he ran his hand through his hair, pushing the silky locks out of his face. He caught Lily’s eye across the room and winked.

Her head ducked, cheeks flushing even as heat pooled in areas much lower down.

“Evans?” Sirius was watching her, daring her to contradict him. “Still waiting.”

Lily slumped gloomily back against the window. “Yeah, alright, fine, have at it.”

When Sirius was finished with his idea, Lily had an eyebrow of her own to raise.

“You think that will work?”

He shook his head at her uncertainty. “He’ll lose his shit.”

“He probably won’t even notice.”

“Oh, he’ll notice. I give him three minutes before he pounces.”

Lily was unconvinced. “It’ll take at least five.”

“Place a wager?”

“What are your terms?”

“You get Marlene to go on a date with me.”

Lily scoffed openly, “Why do you think I can get her to do that?”

“Because she’s your best friend.” Sirius said it like it was obvious.

“Ask her yourself.”

“Is that your terms?”

Lily crossed her arms over her chest. “Fine. Sure. Those are my terms. If it works, I’ll get her to go out with you. If it doesn’t, you have to ask Marlene out. Seriously.” She pointed a finger, stabbing his chest as his mouth opened. “Don’t say it.”

“Fine,” Sirius rubbed his sternum. “Ruin all my fun. Do we have an agreement?”

She took his outstretched hand, “Pleasure doing business with you.”

“Likewise. Now, off you go.”

She was subtle about it. At least, she hoped she was. Lily moved slowly across the room towards the beer pong table. She took her time. Chatted to various fellow students and friends. Got herself a new drink, smirking to herself as she allowed Peter to spike her butterbeer. Liquid courage and all that.

“Who’s winning?” she asked as she sidled up to Mary, along the edge of the table.

“Our boys,” Mary inclined her head toward Remus and James.

Our boys. She liked the sound of that. Mary only meant it as in their fellow Gryffindors, compared to the Hufflepuffs of Gideon and Fabian, but Lily liked it all the same.

“Insulted you even have to ask, Evans,” James chidded her, as he watched Remus scull a full cup of butterbeer.

“Apologies, James, I should have known,” Lily felt her breath catch in her throat, making her words quiet.

He heard them anyway.

James barely seemed to register that the ball he’d just thrown had bounced off the rim of the cup he’d aimed for. He definitely didn’t notice the Prewetts crowing across the table as Gideon lined up his next shot. Nor did he spare Remus a glance as his friend sighed and shot him a pained look.

“What did you just say?” James spun to face Lily, heedless to the game, the people around them.

“I said I was sorry for doubting you,” Lily fought hard to keep the smile off her face.

“That wasn’t what you said.” He took the beer that Remus forced into his hand, Fabian’s turn having been a success. It stayed in his hand as he took several steps toward her.

“Well, no, not word for word,” Lily shifted her weight back, her heart rate increasing as she saw the flash in his eyes, the smirk on his face.

“James, it’s your -” Remus was cut off as James thrust the cup back at him.

“Get Peter.”

“We’ll lose, we’re on a streak, you can’t -”

“I don’t care. Get Peter,” James didn’t even look to see how his friend reacted, his eyes fixed on hers.

Lily swallowed, trying to force her heart back into her chest as she took more steps back, away from Mary, away from the table, away from the throng of beer pong enthusiasts.

“Not like you to give up a game so easily,” she tried to jest, but the words came out soft, too soft.

James’ lips twitched, just slightly, just enough to relax her shoulders. “Depends on the reason.”

“What was the reason?”

“Better game started.”

Lily stopped in her retreat, not moving even as his toes lined up with hers. Her head tilted to the side as she looked up at him. “This a game, is it?”

James shook his head, “Not really. Not to me.”

“Neither,” she was reduced to a whisper as his hand curved around her jaw, fingers spanning her neck, thumb brushing across her cheek.

“Say it again,” he whispered, forehead almost on hers.

“I’m sorry for-”

“Not that,” he cut her off harshly, his other hand squeezing at her hip where she hadn’t even realised he held her. “The part where you said my name.”

Lily looked at him, at the hazel that danced with gold, at the earnestness, the longing in his expression, mixed with hope and light and lust. She looked at him and realised everything else had faded away.

“James.”

She didn’t wait for him to respond, pushing straight up into his arms, threading her hands into the soft silky hair she’d admired to bring him down to her. He needed no such encouragement, meeting her exhale on his inhale, taking the breath from her lungs their mouths sealed, a perfect fit. It was hot and damp, and her skin tingled everywhere it met with his. James sighed into her mouth, his tongue tracing the edge of her inner lip before finding hers to play with.

“Shit,” she whispered, when they finally pulled apart, though neither moved very far.

“That bad, huh?” James leant back toward her. “I can try again.”

“No,” Lily shook her head, pressing another three kisses at least to his lips before she could pull away again. “No, not you.”

“Then what?” James’ hand had found it’s way under her top, and began traced to skin along the edge of her trousers, raising goosebumps along it’s path.

It made it difficult to focus, to say the least. She let her fingers trail down his neck to squeeze the defined muscles of his shoulder, was gratified by the groan that escaped him, that she wasn’t the only one feeling so much right then. It made it easier to think.

“I’ve got to figure out how to get Marlene to go on a date with Sirius, that’s all.” Lily looked up at James, smiling invitingly. “How do you feel about double dating?”

[fruitageoforanges]

⚠️ if you know me irl, no you don’t! ⚠️

jude / she/her / i follow from @/hotspurpercy / my interests:

hotd: as green as a partisan westerosi peasant. of aegond/helaegond origins but lucemond has crept in there too. i write wild AU fics that give me brainworms of epic proportions:

portrait of a prince on fire (ongoing) - lucemond; 1600s/english civil war historical fusion. luke strong, harwin's legitimised bastard, is commissioned to paint prince aemond's betrothal portrait; shenanigans ensue

asoiaf: slowly plodding my way through the books. no. 1 daemon ii blackfyre girlie and champion of eliarhaegar failmarriage. one day i’ll get around to finishing these fics:

bridling the dragon (drafting): eliarhaegar; role reversal au. princess elia of dorne attempts to make sense of the strange man who came over the prince’s pass to marry her

death by a thousand cuts: eliarhaegar; queen rhaella is pregnant again, and elia begins to realise exactly what kind of family she married into. she can survive it, though. right?

the knight of the rubies: rhaelya; body swap au. lyanna doesn’t have half a notion of prophecies or magic, but she does know a good deal when she sees one

other media: the aubreyad, the queen’s thief, various niche areas of english history, arthuriana

my art tag: #scribbles

[btswritingcafe]

in honor of hoseok’s birthday we have put together the fics of our members for you to enjoy right in one masterlist. happy reading and happy birthday to jung hoseok.

please note. we only compiled a few fics as the quantity that has been reblogged on this network for hoseok is too much to include in one post. with that being said, do not hesitate to look through our tags by searching for m;hoseok.

K E Y

fluff [❀] | angst [♛] | smut [❦] | comedy [◌] | series [✎] | oneshot [✓] | drabble [⊕]

on bended knee | ❀ ❦ ⊕ [ @sunshinerainbowsbts ]

Someone's eyeing your man, so you decide to do something about it.

when it rains | ❀ ❦ ✓ [ @augustbutwinter ]

the next time you see hoseok after christmas, it rains. you’ve missed him.

an economy of words | ◌ ✎ [ @vyduan ]

A spy v spy fic of epically stupid proportions featuring Jung Hoseok and his handler, Min Yoongi. Shenanigans and things that go boom ensue. Also, you are a mysterious spy of mysterious origins causing all the explody things so there's that.

cold heart | ❀ ♛ ✓ [ @fluffyydumplings ]

Hoseok’s the prince of every human being’s dream. Both literally and metaphorically. Behind close doors, he is yours. In front of the crowd, he is man who is yet to be claimed.

pretty price for a pretty heart | ❀ ♛ ✓ [ @moon-write ]

desperate times call for desperate measures and that’s how jung hoseok, a.k.a. mr. sunshine, is hurled into your life. a successful, very successful, 32-year-old businessman swimming in his hard-earned wealth. he can’t even breathe without uttering a flirtatious remark your way the second you meet. but the contract is clear- he just wants someone to fill the space next to him while dining at lavish restaurants and jet-setting off to exotic places. in exchange, he’ll pay off your debt. it should be simple…

— Thank you for sharing your talents with us! We hope you can enjoy Hoseok’s birthday reading these wonderful stories!

[river-bottom-nightmare]

Conner Kent Week 2021, Day Three: TTK Shenanigans

the thing is, sometimes his ttk wasn’t enough.

kon used to go on and on about his tactile telekinesis. he’ll admit it too, with less shame than a poppy seed. superman didn’t have tactile telekinesis, superman couldn’t lift and shape and break things with his mind, superman could piece together things that were irreversibly broken. kon could. 

he used it often, and couldn’t count the number of times it had come in use.

bart, thrashing his body violently, that cheerful expression even in the toughest times wiped clean and covered by sheer desperation. there was a metal collar around his neck, thicker than kon’s wrist and looping in a hopeless, unbreakable circle. it was digging into bart’s skin, thin red lines the same colour as the stripe on bart’s suit being rubbed repeatedly until they widened, until blood was dripping from bart’s throat, until muscle memory had the speedster slamming against the restraints in an attempt to vibrate through, but his powers were gone. kon barged into the holding cell, and his ttk was able to reach bart before kon could. he spread it wide and strong, concentrating on dismantling the inhibitor collar into tiny, tiny pieces in less than a second; then he used his ttk to cradle bart’s limp body gently as he flew to young justice headquarters.

cassie hunched over in pain, long since haven given up keeping her usual, gentle smile plastered on her face. she was curled up on the couch, a veritable mountain of blankets covering her. kon heard the repetitive sounds of dramatic conversation coming from the television as a failed attempt at distraction. cassie had sent tim on a grocery run using his shiny black credit card linked to wayne’s bank account for essentials, which consisted of gummy worms, overly chunky banana smoothies, and lots of chocolate. bart was busy writing up all of the reports that tim and cassie were required to do, tim for batman and cassie for the league as young justice’s leader, for the sake of easing some of the stress on cassie’s shoulders. none of that helped her now, though, as she bit back another groan at what kon could only assume was a horrible cramp. so he blanketed her in his ttk, heating up the air near her stomach, and felt a flutter of usefulness and pride when cassie sighed in relief and voiced a thousand thank-yous.

tim, falling through the air, not making a move to fight against it. watching his best friend get thrown from a helicopter had been petrifying enough, especially since tim didn’t have any backup, because kon technically wasn’t supposed to be here. his heart stopped in his chest as red robin plummeted downward, wind whipping his hair wild, cape billowing around his body in a useless parody of a parachute. it took kon entirely too long to realize that tim wasn’t going to do anything. he made no move to reach for his grapple, no secret parachutes being revealed, not even a thought to call for help. that spurred kon into action. he shot forward faster than a bullet, but his ttk was already there, stopping tim’s fall abruptly and wrapping around him in an invisible embrace while tim gasped, eyes flying open. kon’s ttk held tim until kon was able to gather up the smaller boy in his own arms, squeezing him tight to counter the trembles wracking from tim’s body.

so yes, kon was eternally grateful for this particular superpower. his control over it was more impeccable than he led people to believe, in a large part due to knockout’s training. it was a well-honed tool, the most used in his arsenal, and kon utilized it to the best of his ability.

but sometimes, it just wasn’t enough.

kon could use his ttk to create a light show of the most epic proportions, simulating firecrackers and miniature exploding stars and every other wild thing he could think of into the blank expanse of the night sky. if he was devoted enough, he could draw a giggle out of bart, a whoop and a cheer at an explosion of colour. but no amount of brief, fleeting laughter could bring back bart’s hope. his joy and happiness in the little things, his lightheartedness and jokes in the face of things that would break a grown man. now, life just wasn’t fun for bart anymore, and a light show wouldn’t change that. 

kon could use his ttk to hold cassie in as many hugs as she wanted, desperately trying to pretend that his life and his relationship hadn’t changed at all. but no amount of unseen embraces could take away from the fact that he had been gone, he had been dead. cassie shuddered, trying to keep herself from letting a tear slip loose as she told him how desperately she’d kissed and fucked tim, how furiously he responded as the two of them tried to look for kon in any places he may have lingered. kon’s heart broke for the both of them, but no matter how much his ttk could fix, it couldn’t put cassie back together again.

kon could use his ttk to be as useful as he could, trying to give tim a reason to keep him around, trying to prove to him that not everyone would abandon him, that kon would stay if tim just asked him to. he fixed broken equipment without touching it and organized haphazard notes without looking at them and made a meal without stepping foot in the kitchen of tim’s penthouse. it wasn’t enough. tim had withdrawn, pulled back into the hard shell of red robin. glimpses of emotion that tim let slip were all kon was able to catch, only because he’d known tim for so long. though, tim seemed to forget that, pushing him away with a shaking hand and a desperate voice that sounded like it was trying to convince tim instead of kon. and no amount of tactile telekinesis would pry tim open just a little, just enough for kon to slip inside. 

what was the point of having superpowers, kon thought, if he couldn’t use them to help his friends when they needed his help most. 

i know the prompt said “shenanigans.” but. i got angsty. have some sad core four.

tag list: @woahjaybird @birdy-bat-writes @anothertimdrakestan @screennamealreadyused @subtleappreciation @pricetagofficial @catxsnow @bikoncon @bonkybearjpeg @maplumebleue-blog-blog @sundownridge @thatsthewhump

[maria-scribbles]

glitter + crimson (let’s start a riot)//part two

summary: the pogues get up to a few shenanigans, burn the shit out of some marshmallows, and have a group hug of epic proportions. the dynamic duo of kiara and sailor brings out girl power in full force before getting real about a certain golden group rule. 

word count: 4.2k+ 

ship: jj maybank x oc (sailor flynn)

warnings: mentions of abuse/neglect/parental abandonment/anxiety, underage drinking, weed usage, more fluff, flirting, reference to absolute legend kobe bryant

a/n: hello again! thank you all for the great response to part one, i’m seriously blown away and so grateful for your support! <3 i’m happy y’all enjoyed reading about sailor’s adventures with the pogues! here’s part two, which had previously been combined with part one but i decided to split it because it was getting wayyyy too long (over 8k words, oops). also i’ve never even seen weed with my own two eyes before so my bad if that part’s not realistic, i did my best lol. unbetaed, so i apologize for any mistakes. enjoy!

gif credit goes to @toesure​

~Masterlist~

part one | part three | part four | playlist

part two: treading water 

The pogues spend the next few hours among the waves, surfing their hearts out until they’re waterlogged, exhausted, and hungry. As the sun starts to sink over the island they pile into John B’s beat up Volkswagen, all their boards tied together on the roof, and head to The Wreck, where Kiara’s dad begrudgingly feeds his daughter and her ‘delinquent’ friends.

That word seems pretty harsh at first but as the evening goes on and the group gets a little louder, it’s kind of well-deserved. Pope can’t seem to stop dropping his fork, sending the rest of them into hysterical laughter each time, and everyone knows when Taylor Swift comes on the radio, Sailor has an obligation to get up and dance. The fact that she knocks a chair over in her haste to show off her moves only makes them laugh harder. When they finally leave and head back to the Chateau for the night, she makes sure to put forty bucks on their table for the food and the twelve pack of beer Kiara swipes from behind the bar when Mr. Carrera isn’t looking.

While it may not look like much, John B’s house if home for more than just him. It’s a safe port for all the pogues when they get lost in the storm, a place where they can all be themselves, be real, without judgement, and it’s Sailor’s second favorite place on the island. She’s lost count of how many nights she’s spent here, sleeping in the spare room, on the pull-out couch, and the hammock in the yard (sleepovers have become even more common in the eight months since Big John’s disappearance at sea, no one willing to leave his son all alone in an empty house.).

The hammock is where she finds herself now on this warm June night, sitting beside JJ with his arm around her shoulders, clad in his sweatshirt that she unashamedly stole last year, passing a joint back and forth while the others lounge around the small bonfire, roasting the old marshmallows John B found in the very back of one of his kitchen’s cupboards and drinking beer. One of her long legs dangles over the edge, toes pushing against the cool grass as they lazily swing back and forth, watching Kiara burn her third marshmallow in a row.

“Kie, what did those poor things ever do to you?” Sailor asks, exhaling smoke through her nose before passing the joint to JJ, and the brush of his fingers against hers sends warmth through her whole body. Kiara just shoots her the bird in response as she stabs her fourth marshmallow and holds it over the fire. The redhead laughs and rests her head against JJ’s shoulder, her limbs light as air. In the distance, lightning arcs between the clouds and creates a dazzling show over the water as thunder rumbles but none of them care enough to notice.

Although she never outright asks to smoke, she also never refuses the chance to get high with her best friend and let their problems drift away with every hit, if only for a little while. Lines get a little blurry between them, too, as both become oh so affectionate with each other when their inhibitions disappear like the sun over the horizon. She sighs contentedly at the blissful feeling of his fingers running through her hair and burrows further into his side, turning so she can throw an arm over his waist and curl her own fingers into the soft material of his shirt.

“Damn it!” John B yells as his marshmallow, in the span of a few seconds, catches fire and unceremoniously falls into the flames with a hiss.

“Ha, I’m not the only one on the struggle bus!” Kiara laughs gleefully, delicately turning her fourth attempt to keep it from burning like the other three. “We can’t all be Pope, I guess.”

The other boy looks up at the mention of his name and grins, holding out a perfectly toasted marshmallow on the end of the stick in his hand. “It takes talent, Kie.” He jokes, chuckling as she sticks her tongue out at him.

Sailor can’t help laughing, too when the two of them dive headfirst into a heated discussion about the finer points of roasting things over a campfire, their voices becoming louder and louder as they try to talk over one another while John B, unfazed from his spot between them, just holds another marshmallow over the fire and ignores them completely as he takes a sip of his beer.

“Aaaand JB’s totally checked out of that particular conversation,” She says to JJ under her breath and she feels more than hears him laugh in response.

“Poor bastard,” He whispers back before taking one last hit of the joint, now burnt down to a nub in his hand, and flicking it into the fire with a shout of “Kobe!”

“Nice one, hotshot.” She shifts her head up on his shoulder as her eyes unabashedly trace his profile in the warm orange glow of the fire, from the golden hair falling haphazardly onto his forehead and down the straight slope of his nose to the curve of his lips before she’s caught -not that she was being subtle in any possible way-, his ocean blue gaze holding hers with an electrified energy that would’ve normally set her whole face aflame. She’s not Normal Sailor now though, she’s High Sailor and High Sailor has positively zero shame so she just looks up at him with a saccharine smile on her face and blesses the fact that weed makes her bold as hell. 

The flickering flames throw JJ’s features into sharp relief and highlight the dimples that she loves as he returns her smile, the hand in her hair now twirling a single curl around his finger. His free hand settles on the strip of bare skin at her waist where her sweatshirt has ridden up and her heart beats a little faster when he starts drawing agonizingly slow circles with his thumb. Her hand releases its grip on his shirt and before she even realizes it, she’s reaching up and brushing a finger along her jaw, just like he’d done to her that afternoon on the beach, and she feels the fingers at her waist press against her skin. 

It’s moments like these that make her wish she could freeze time and live in them forever. Just the two of them, looking at each other like they’re more than just friends, touching each other like they’re falling into something beautiful and all they need to do is stick the landing. The possibility of taking that final leap teases her. He’s so close, it wouldn’t take much to just reach up and make that minuscule distance between them disappear and from the way his eyes flick down to her mouth and back, she’s sure he’s thinking the same. They won’t though and for now that’s okay, but deep down she wonders just how long they can balance on the cliff’s edge before they both fall. 

As much as she’d like to stare at his stupidly handsome face all night, the weather has other plans as lightning flashes white across the sky, immediately followed by a big crack of thunder that makes Sailor jump and accidentally headbutt JJ right in the forehead. The stick in Pope’s hand goes flying somewhere into the bushes when he startles, too, and there’s a pause as everyone looks at each other before bursting into wild laughter.

“Jesus, Sail,” JJ says, reaching up to rub at the spot she hit, “you have a hard head.”

Her reply of “speak for yourself!” is drowned out by another clap of thunder and seconds later it starts pouring rain, sending the group scrambling to head back inside the Chateau before they get too drenched. The duo, in their haste, get tangled together in the hammock and nearly fall to the ground in a heap but manage to hold each other up with their hands clasped tight, both laughing so hard she’s sure the water on their faces is more than just rain.

“The beer! Don’t forget the beer!” Someone yells and John B, halfway to the porch in front of them, does a smooth 180 on the wet grass and runs back for the booze sitting beside the dying fire, sending them a lazy salute when he passes by.

“We honor your sacrifice, Captain!” JJ calls over his shoulder before they clamber onto the porch alongside a giggling Kiara.

“Oh my God, you two almost bit it so hard.” She says while wringing out her shirt, adding to the steadily growing puddle of water at their feet.

“But we didn’t, all thanks to me and my impeccable balance.” He says proudly, grinning down at the girl still snug against his side before she lets go of his hand to slug him in the shoulder.

“Ow, what was that for?”

“Oh please, J, I was the one who kept you from falling on your face. Now, hold still.” Sailor orders and places her hand on his arm, using him for balance as she brushes the grass from her feet.

“Yes, ma’am.” His reply is low in her ear, his hand settles even lower on her back, and she pretends the shiver her body makes is just from the cool rain.

“You like being bossed around, Maybank?”

Her hand grips his strong shoulder a little bit tighter, and she feels his fingers tighten on her sweatshirt as he replies, “Depends on who’s doing the bossing, Flynn.”

Kiara coughs pointedly, staring at them with her eyebrows raised and Sailor feels her face begin to flush bright red because, to be honest, she’d kind of forgotten she was even there as they both let go of each other. The other girl snickers and drawls, “If you two are quite done-”

Thankfully, a thoroughly soaked John B joins them and interrupts whatever Kiara was going to say, his hair plastered to his face and dripping onto the soggy carton of beer protectively cradled in his arms.

“Mission accomplished.” He says with a satisfied smile, setting the drinks down on a chair before shaking his head like a dog and splattering rainwater on everyone, including Pope as he emerges from the house carrying a pile of towels. A few drops land on his cheek and he wrinkles his nose in disgust, wiping them away with his own towel hanging around his neck.

“I was just kidding about the beer.” He says, throwing one and smacking John B right in the face, then kindly passing out the rest. Sailor barely grabs the last one before Pope’s suddenly put in a headlock by the brunet boy, yelling something about mutiny and a captain “not standing for this” as they start to grapple back and forth. JJ pauses in the middle of drying his hair and instantly jumps into the fray after tossing his towel to the floor, the scuffle quickly turning into a three way wrestling match.

She and Kiara both glance at each other and roll their eyes before scooting by the melee and heading into the house, leaving the boys to do their thing. They quickly dry off and change into pajamas, hang their wet clothes up to dry in the bathroom, and then tiredly flop onto the bed in the spare room together.

“How long do you think it’ll take until Wrestlemania out there’s done?” Sailor asks, rolling onto her stomach and reaching to pull her phone and glasses out of her bag on the floor; under her newly acquired hat, the lightning whelk peeks through its towel and the sight of it makes her smile softly. Kiara snorts and sits up, crossing her legs and running her fingers through her damp hair. “Knowing those fools, too long.”

The redhead laughs and mirrors the other girl’s position before slipping her glasses on and glancing down at her phone in trepidation, where no new texts block the lock screen picture of her and the rest of the pogues, and she does her best to ignore the hurt coiling in her chest, the smile fading from her face. She places the phone screen down on the bedside table and when she raises her head, she’s not surprised to find Kiara, ever so perceptive, staring at her with sympathy in her soft brown eyes.

“You okay?” She asks and Sailor takes off her glasses, then pulls her knees to her chest and wraps her arms around them.

“Could be better.”

Lightning illuminates the room, followed by an impressive crack of thunder a few seconds later as rain continues to pound against the window and down the hall, they hear the door slam closed as the boys finally storm inside after their scuffle, still yelling like banshees. The other girl reaches over and quickly squeezes her wrist before shooting her a bright smile.

“If you ever need to vent, I’m all ears.”

She knows she means it. Aside from JJ, Kiara’s her closest friend and from the moment they met, the two had quickly bonded over being the only girls in the group and their love of the environment: she’s lost count of how many times they’ve volunteered, both themselves and the rest of the pogues, to help raise money for animals. Despite Kiara’s kook year, Sailor considers her a sister and knows that Kie feels the same about her. Having each other’s backs no matter what is just what they do.

The redhead looks away from watching the storm outside and matches Kiara’s smile, then scoots closer to wrap her arms around her in a grateful hug.

“Thanks, Kie.” 

The dark haired girl eagerly returns the embrace. “Any-”

“Comin’ through, gotta get me some of this group hug action!” JJ yells, storming into the room like a hurricane and throwing his arms around them, all but tackling them onto the bed before they even realize what’s happening.

“No, no, you’re still wet!” Sailor cries as his head rests against the back of her neck, his damp hair slowly beginning to soak into her shirt while Kiara growls, “Oh my God, get off!” 

“And miss out on this? No way.” He says cheekily and pulls them both closer, ignoring the dark haired girl’s venomous glare and attempts to pry his hand away from her arm. Sailor, resigned to her fate, just laughs and calls over his arm to John B and Pope as they curiously poke their heads in from the hall, “Get your asses in here!”

She doesn’t have to tell them twice. They throw themselves into the hug faster than she can blink and with such contagious enthusiasm that Kiara can’t fight the affectionate grin making its way onto her face, even as she threatens, “I’m gonna kill all of you.”

Sailor rests her cheek on JJ’s outstretched arm and smiles to herself. This, right here and now, is where she belongs, surrounded by the best friends she could ask for, living each moment to its fullest. No matter what comes their way, she knows this is true: as long as they all stand together, the pogues will be just fine. 

Some time later, the hug comes to an end as JJ jokingly complains about Sailor’s big head making his arm numb, which earns him a swift elbow to the stomach from the redhead.

“Weak.” She replies, smirking at the little oof he makes before grabbing his arm and pulling them both up from the bed. “Now get out.” 

“Please.” Kiara agrees and pushes John B out the door, followed by Pope. “This room is girls only.”

“Since when?” The latter asks, sidestepping to avoid JJ as he’s playfully shoved into the hall by Sailor, who replies, “Right now.”

“Why?”

“’Cause we said so!” Both girls say in unison before they slam the door shut and then lean their backs against it, giggling. On the other side, they hear Pope ask in a very amused voice, “I thought this was your house?”

John B sighs the deepest sigh they’ve ever heard before replying, “Yeah, I did, too.”

“Ten bucks they’re gonna talk shit about us.” JJ says and there’s a not so subtle bump against the door that gives away the fact that he’s got his ear pressed to it, trying to listen in on them; a fact that gets proven when Sailor smacks her hand on it and makes him stumble back with a yelp of surprise.

“Dream on!”

“You wish!”

She and Kiara call at the same time, then glance at each other and burst into another fit of giggles.

“Tough break, dude. You’ll feel better in the morning.” That was John B’s tactless way of saying he’s tired without actually saying it and seconds later they hear his footsteps disappear down the hall to his room as he makes his escape, followed faintly by the sound of his door swinging shut.

“You don’t talk about us at all, Sail? Seriously?” JJ asks and Sailor can almost feel the sheer force of Pope’s inevitable eye roll when he mumbles under his breath, “Oh my God.”

Kiara’s on the same wavelength as him because she rolls her eyes, too and all but yells, “If we say yes will you fucking leave?” 

There’s a pause and then: a slightly miffed “...yes.” along with Pope trying and failing to disguise his laugh as a cough.

“Then yes, we do talk about you. Now go.”

“Okay, okay! Jeez.”

“Goodnight, boys!” Sailor calls in a singsong voice before hearing them retreat to the living room, arguing about who gets the sleeper sofa and who gets stuck with the regular couch. When she’s sure they’re gone she shakes her head fondly (she doesn’t see why they can’t just get over themselves and share the damn thing) and turns back to Kiara, who’s already in the middle of pulling the damp comforter from the bed, her face the picture of disgust. 

“Ugh,” She shudders, tossing it to the floor and then wiping her hands on a discarded towel from earlier. “Don’t touch that.”

“No shit.”

The dark haired girl jokingly flips Sailor the bird and then joins her in lounging on the bed, watching the fan spin in circles above their heads while the storm outside continues to rage on. The silence is comforting, soothing, and goes on for so long that the redhead’s nearly sent off to dreamland by the sound of the rain before Kiara finally speaks, “Hey, Sail?”

She hums in response, slowly turning her head to face her and blinking the sleep out of her eyes.

“Can I ask you something?”

“You just did.” She replies with an impish grin, but it slips from her face when the other girl shoots her a flat, unamused glance. 

“Ha ha. I’m being serious, okay?”

Well that wasn’t worrying at all. “Is something wrong?” Sailor asks, rolling onto her side to face her friend completely and propping her head on her arm, all traces of lethargy thrown out the window. Kiara does the same with an unreadable look in her eyes as she answers, “No, I’m just a little...okay, a lot curious about something, and I want you to be honest with me.”

“I mean, I kind of have to. You know I suck at lying.”

She frowns when Kiara doesn’t even react to her comment and instead starts to worry her bottom lip between her teeth. “It’s kind of a personal question, though.”

Oh, Jesus. She’s gonna ask about her dad, Sailor knows it, and that’s something she’s just not ready to talk about -she hasn’t even told JJ the whole story yet and she tells him (almost) everything- but before she can think of a semi-decent excuse, or run to the bathroom, or pretend to just pass the fuck out, Kiara blurts, “What’s the deal between you and JJ?”

Okay, that’s decidedly not what she expected to hear and it completely throws her for a loop, her brain blowing a fuse in epic fashion. A long stream of gibberish comes from her mouth as she tries and fails to articulate a response because holy hell she’s so not prepared for this; she’s a listener, not a talker! She’s the confidante not the confider, the asker not the answerer, and she can feel herself getting a little sweaty at just the thought of talking about her feelings, even with someone as close to her as Kiara. She almost wishes the other girl had asked about her dad.  

To be honest she should’ve seen this coming, considering the looks Kiara’s been sending her recently and especially today, the ones that clearly meant that the dark haired girl’s seen what’s been happening and wants. that. tea. What Sailor doesn’t get though, is why she’s being so serious about it: she expects at least an overexaggerated wink or a teasing comment or two from her friend but she’s just waiting patiently, the slightest hint of mirth in her eyes. 

Finally, the redhead manages to collect her panicked thoughts enough to squeak oh so eloquently, “Me-him-nothing!” 

Kiara arches one eyebrow. “Sail, you really do suck at lying.”

Sailor flops back onto the bed and slides her hands down her furiously blushing face with a groan. “I’m not lying.” She mutters insistently but even she can admit it sounds weak as hell.

“It’s obvious there’s something-”

Something in her snaps and before she can stop them, words just start coming out with the force of a wave crashing against the shore, rough and callous. “It’s obvious there’s nothing going on, okay? Nothing. And even if there was -not that I’m saying there is- it can’t happen. That’s the golden rule, Kie.” 

Kiara looks momentarily taken aback at the redhead’s outburst and then rolls onto her back, staring at the ceiling for a moment before she whispers quietly, like a secret she’s reluctant to share, “Maybe I think that rule is stupid.” 

“Stupid?” Sailor glances over incredulously, the brief flash of anger aimed at her friend slowly morphing into confusion. “You’re the one who came up with it in the first place!”

“I know...” The dark haired girl sighs, tiredly running her hands through her hair, “I wanted to keep things from getting weird! It’s worked pretty well so far but I’m kind of, sort of, maybe starting to think it might not have been the best idea.”

“Why?” She asks, brow furrowing.

Kiara appears deep in thought as she keeps staring at the ceiling, working her jaw until she seems to come to a decision and turns her head to look Sailor in the eye. “Because I don’t think something as simple as a rule should be able to dictate who you can or can’t...love.”

Oh, God. Anxiety starts to take hold in her chest and she tries to keep her brain from going into five-alarm fire mode, her fingers tapping nervously against her leg. Why oh why did she have to say the L-word? Who said anything about that? Hell, it’s been a few months and she’s still getting used to her world-changing, panic-inducing, everything-clicking-into-place epiphany that made her realize that she does, in fact, like JJ as more than a friend (how and when her feelings changed, she hasn’t quite figured that out yet.). She’s not even close to thinking about love. Noticing her friend’s distress, Kiara reaches over to place her darker hand on the paler girl’s and gives it a reassuring squeeze. 

“I’m not saying you love him, okay? But there’s obviously something good going on between you guys and I’m not cool with some dumb rule we made when we were twelve getting in the way of your happiness,” Her mouth curls into a lighthearted smirk, “even if it happens to be with someone as, uh, distinct as JJ.”

Despite herself, Sailor snorts a laugh and the tight feeling in her chest slowly starts to become a little more bearable as its replaced by a swell of gratitude that she has a person as wonderful as Kiara for a friend. She really did luck out in that department, she thinks, and the corner of her mouth lifts in a small smile. 

“Distinct?”

“Hey, I was gonna say idiotic but I’m trying to be nice here.” The dark haired girl says, laughing as Sailor affectionately rolls her eyes before continuing, “But you do know that if he messes this up I’ll kick his ass, right?”

“Trust me, I do.”

“Good.” She punctuates that with a massive yawn, then rolls away from her and pulls the sheets higher over her chest, mumbling, “Now I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for bed. All this deep talk made me tired.”

“Big mood,” Sailor replies, reaching over and flicking off the bedside lamp, the only light now coming from the occasional flash of lightning through the windows as she rolls comfortably onto her side, tucking her arm under the pillow. Silence settles over them, dark and calm and stretching for who knows how long before she says quietly, “Thanks, Kie.”

There’s no answer. Realizing she must’ve already nodded off, the redhead’s just about to crash herself when her friend’s reply softly cuts through the silence like a knife.

“You’re not the only one I did it for.”

Kiara doesn’t say anything after that and Sailor falls asleep wondering what, or rather who, exactly the other girl meant. 

~

let me know what you think! 

taglist ❤ (i added everyone who’s comments and reblogs made me smile so let me know if you don’t want to be tagged!) : @jiaraendgame @obxlife @sunflowerbecca @maysbanks @obx-adventures @mortifiedposts @sexualparkour​ @coltonparayyko​ @heavensalreadyheres​

[supposed2bfunny]

2doc Week Day 5-Quarantine

This one’s a tad longer, so putting it under a ‘read more.’ Just some really insipid shenanigans for this day’s prompt!

“You ready, Muds?”

“This is an astonishing waste of time, Stu—”

“On three, then?”

“…fine.”

“Great! One, two, three…go!” 2D jumped out of his room, a little confused to find that Murdoc was already standing in the hallway, staring at him. “Hey, you cheated.”

“I came out on three, you came out on go. You just said ‘on three—‘"

“Well yeah, but you count to three and then you—”

“Nevermind,” he cut him off, smirking. “Mate, you look ridiculous.”

“You’re one to talk!” 2D clamped a hand over his mouth to stifle the giggle that threatened to end the sentence in a highly undignified high pitch.

Murdoc was dressed in the clothes 2D had worn in their “Saturnz Barz” video, complete with a pair of blue trousers that looked uncomfortably tight, belted way above his paunch, and a black button-down, opened to reveal a tempting tuft of coarse hair. His chest looked alien without his usual upside-down cross. Without thinking, the singer reached up to his own chest, where the cross sat between his skin and the worn material of Murdoc’s striped jumper.

“Those pants look more like capris on you!” the bassist cackled, pointing at his bare ankles.

“Shut up! The jumper suits me quite well, don’t you think? The color brings out my hair. Least I don’t look like the male whore in some B-movie!”

“Mate,” Murdoc was still laughing, and having a hard time getting his words out. “You can’t say I look like a whore when I’m dressed as you!”

“I wore that outfit better than you!”

“Great, so can we agree that we both look completely mental?”

“I don’t think that’s entirely fair; I think I pull off your frumpiness like a model!”

“That jumper was designed for someone with a complexion more like my own.”

“Green, you mean green skin?”

“Well, I guess green is a state of mind,” he grumbled, scratching his chin thoughtfully. “So slip into that mindset, turtledove, because for the rest of the day, you’re me.”

“Oh, I’ve had two decades to observe you, Muds,” he replied casually, leaning against the doorframe. “All I have to do is act drunk, shout every hour or so about how great my band is, and go out of my way to grate on everyone’s nerves. Easy. Think that mastering the nuance of my enigmatic personality will be way harder for you.”

The bassist-turned-frontman rolled his eyes and moved to brush past him. “All I have to do is not think for the rest of the day. This’ll be a bloody vacation, pet.”

“Hey wait, before we start officially, give me a kiss,” he requested, catching the shorter man by the simple gold necklace—his necklace—around his neck, dragging him in closer and pausing as their lips hovered over each other.

“Am I kissing you as Murdoc, or as 2D?”

“As hot as a little 2D-on-2D action sounds, I want a kiss from my boyfriend.”

“Needy bitch,” he chuckled, but he obliged, pressing the taller man against the wall and kissing him languidly, reaching underneath that hole-filled sweater to trace the cross against his boyfriend’s chest. “Let’s stick a pin in that idea, huh? Now then, shall we pop off? There’s a certain drummer I’m dying to pester with my extensive knowledge of zombie flicks.”

“Fine, fine, I’ll go see if Noodle notices the difference—oh, careful!” He reached out quickly and caught the shorter man as he tripped over his slightly-too-big shoes. “Watch it, luv. Being me is a right safety hazard.”

Grinning mischievously, the two parted ways, and the man formerly known as 2D made for the living room, where Noodle could be found flipping through a magazine.

“Noods!” he crowed, doing his best to sound gruff and Stoke-on-Trent-y. “I’ve got some grrreat news! I tried a new skin-care product and it took decades off my skin. I’d say I look at least twelve years younger: what do you think?”

She glanced up and frowned. “What fresh stupidity is this?” she asked.

“Stupidity? Don’t be so rude, poppet, I look good don’t I? Don’t worry; there’s no shame in admitting that a bloke so many years your senior is more attractive than you, really.”

“2D,” she sighed. “Why are you impersonating Murdoc?”

“Impersonating? I am Murdoc!”

“Sure you are. And is Murdoc also Murdoc, or is he 2D?”

“Um…wait, I’m confused…” he paused to try and track what she’d just said, and he realized that  he had completely broken character. “Sod this! Your questions just show that you’re…you’re confused by my superior genius!” Yeah, that sounded about right.

She tapped the magazine on her lap impatiently. “I’m trying to gauge my astrological compatibility with Tessa Thompson right now,” she said. “Can you come back to be annoying and strange later?”

“Er…but I…”

“Get lost, Murdoc.”

She’d done it! She’d acknowledged his acting skills! Satisfied, he pumped his fist in celebration. “Right, enjoy flipping through that trashy magazine telling you what nail polish color will make Tesla love you! I’m going to sit here and watch my soaps!”

“It’s…nevermind.” She sighed, looking like she had a lot more to say, but no energy to say it, and ‘Murdoc’ cheerfully flounced across the room to grab the remote, moving with more spring in his step than he’d had in decades.

Meanwhile, Russel was in the kitchen, preparing himself a hoagie of epic proportions, having been inspired by one of his favorite cooking shows. Just as he was debating whether to opt for dill or bread and butter pickles (or both? life was short), a nicotine-laden pair of lungs cleared themselves right behind him.

“Oh no,” he said, spinning around. “I’m having ‘me time:’ whatever stupid scheme you’re up to, it can damn well wait, Murdo—” he froze, pickle jars in hand, and after a moment, he bent over in a ground-shaking belly laugh. “You look ridiculous!”

“W-wot d’yew mean, Russ?” he asked, pressing a finger to his lips in an attempt to look juvenile. “It’s me, 2D, innit?”

“Murdoc, that belt looks like it’s constricting your ribs, and your belly is about to pop out. What gives?”

“Nuffink gives, just fought I’d try on my old cloves from ‘Saturnz—”

“Man, if you don’t stop talking like that immediately, we’re going to have bigger problems than whatever wardrobe malfunction this is.”

“Easy, easy, big guy! I’ll cut back on the Cockney accent! Fortunately I’ve picked up the ability to speak a bit better in recent years. Can you understand me now?”

“Not at all,” he said dryly. “Why are you dressed like 2D?”

“Mate, I am 2D! The adorable and absentminded singer for our band!” the dark-haired 2D insisted stubbornly.

Russel stared at him, ready to launch into yet another insult. Then he considered the two pickle jars in his hands. “So uh,” he shrugged. “What day of quarantine is it?”

“Oh, seventy-three or seventy-four, something like that. But who’s counting?”

“So you two are just messing around because you’re bored.”

“Well, it’s more fun than making a sandwich, wouldn’t you say?” he asked, smirking, realizing 2D wasn’t really the smirking type, and settling on a softer smile.

Russel weighed his options, and decided the prospective entertainment value was too good to pass up. “Well then, ‘Dee,’ do you want to make this monster sandwich with me? You can regale me with stories of what it’s like in your head the whole time.”

Murdoc—no that wasn’t right—‘2D’ beamed at him and nodded. “I’d love nothing more! Could probably use some extra calories, frail little waif of a man that I am.”

“Oh yeah,” Russel agreed, playfully patting his middle-aged potbelly. “You’re a real waif. Now grab the mustard.”

“You got it, Russ! Yellow or spicy?”

“Yes!”

Several hours later found the singer and bassist reunited in 2D’s bedroom. They sat together, swapping their clothes back piece-by-piece: first 2D pulled the striped jumper over his head, then Murdoc unbuttoned the black shirt as though he were giving a strip tease. They giggled the whole time, each looking particularly relieved when their pants came undone and they could step into comfortable sweatpants once again.

“I’d say outfit-swap was a roaring success!” Murdoc said cheerfully, grabbing a sip of a lukewarm beer sitting on the bedside table.

“I don’t know about that…I think Noodle and Russel were just humoring us.”

“Well at first, sure,” he conceded, gracing the singer with a kiss as he reverently returned his cross necklace to him. “But I think that as we really got into character, they forgot that we were simply acting. Once this quarantine ends, we should head back to LA and reconsider the whole movie star thing!”

“I’ll pass on that,” he replied, pulling a face, then falling down onto his bed, motioning for Murdoc to finish his drink and join him. The older man happily obliged, and the mattress creaked slightly at their combined weight as they cuddled together. “So…what are we going to do tomorrow to annoy the others?”

“We could speak only in riddles the whole day!”

“What if I’m not smart enough for that?”

“Was that a riddle?” Murdoc asked, cackling as he got a poke in the ribs for the comment. “Gentle, gentle! I’ve got it: let’s speak the way people write your dialogue online.”

“Not the super Cockney?”

“That’s right! Let’s speak like Dick Van Dyke attempting to sound like a proper Brit! That’ll be a right laugh!”

“You’re so cruel: what did Noodle and Russel do to deserve you as their bandmate?”

“Hey,” he teased, “you were in on today’s game.”

“Fine, I’ll consider the Cockney schtick, but I think you can do better. Keep working on it.”

“Yes sir,” he agreed, nuzzling into the singer’s neck. “So, we still have the night ahead of us: what did you want to do?”

2D was quiet for long enough that he began to get a little suspicious. “Stu? Simple enough question, luv. What’s on that pretty mind of yours?”

“I was just thinking, Muds…” another long bout of silence.

“Yes?” he prodded.

“Would you still be up for that 2D-on-2D action we were joking about earlier?”

Murdoc pulled away from him abruptly, and he scrambled to follow the bassist, to apologize for the stupid suggestion. As he opened his mouth to voice his mortification and backtrack, Murdoc caught his eye with a playful smirk and slowly pulled his necklace off. “Mate,” he said, voice unusually high, like he was trying to imitate someone else, “I fought yew’d neva ask!”

[blarfkey]

for any of your works rn: 💎, 🔬, 🎢, 🎵? thank you!!!

🎢, 🔬 Thank YOU! I love getting these!

💎 Favorite part

DF – This story is so so long so it’s hard to pick a favorite part! I really loved introducing all the characters, but especially Iron Bull, Ellana’s first class with Dorian, and Varric. I loved the Assassin Game, I loved the star gazing with Solas and the banter they had as they hiked through the woods at night. But I really loved finally FINALLY getting to the confession scene, which I had been excited about for three years.

Thick as Thieves – I loved all of Halamshiral. I had written pieces of it many, many months in advanced but the truth or dare game and the learning how to waltz in the fade and Solas having that realization that he loves her and being too drunk to freak out about it was so much fun.

Code Ren – I really loved the first couple of meetings between Rey and Ben while she’s fixing his mess on the ship. It has the sort of casual camaraderie that I don’t think Ben has ever experienced in his life and I can only imagine how much it floors him to be spoken to in such a way.

More under the cut!

Was there one scene you were building up to/knew you had to get just right?

🔬 DF – The introduction to Solas which took like two years in-universe time and well over one year in real time, haha. I mean, he’s the romantic lead! Their first encounter sets the tone for everything. Not to mention that there are all these things going on in the background between them that Ellana doesn’t even know about, so I had to get Solas’s reactions to her to fit the idea that he’s known her much longer than she’s known him and also she’s pissed him off but he can’t admit to it or explain why. And that she’s much more magnetic in person than in her emails and this proves a problem for him.

Because Solas never planned or expected to actually fall in love with the person he was helping. He just wanted to help someone. And then he sees her and he’s like – oh shit. She’s hot. She’s hot and funny and passionate and it’s all coming through so much more strongly in person than in email and he’s in trouble.

That was a very hard summer for Solas.

Thick as Thieves – The fight with Shay about the balcony scene confession. It always bothered me that in the game the player can only be neutral or positive to Solas’s extremely racist backhanded compliments about how special they are. You can never call him out on it. So definitely wanted Shay to call him out on it and it become their biggest fall-out to date.

This is the turning point for Solas and his love her Shay – because she’s a dwarf and so different than what he’s used to, he has to be able to overcome his biased, prejudiced ideas of what a dwarf should be like before he can allow himself to love her romantically. And it’s also needed for Solas to be a viable romantic partner period. I wouldn’t want to date anyone who thinks I’m an exception to my race or gender or sexuality or what have you. Its’ not fair to the player that they have to romance Solas while he has this mindset and I wasn’t having it with Shay.

Code Ren – The reunion between them on Takodana. The fic is short compared to my others, but they parted on such bad terms that I needed Rey to be able to work with him and understand him the way she used to when she didn’t know the truth of his identity. And if they didn’t meet up again in just the right way with just the right about of Rey giving him hell for what he did and then trying to understand him and reach out to him, then it wouldn’t be believable.

There’s a sweet spot to be met between a character getting forgiven too easily and a character being stubbornly unforgiving in the face of genuine repentance, especially when they are meant to be together.

🎢, Were there any scenes you were nervous about? For audience reception or otherwise?

DF – Obviously the confession and the first kiss. I mean, this is a slow burn of epic proportions and there have been readers that have been in it since the beginning so that means three years of building up expectations and that was kind of freaking me out that it would prove disappointing and unsatisfying. I’m much better writing platonic relationships and romantic build up so much more than the actual romance. And I’m still nervous about future chapters because despite circumstances, Solas and Ellana clearly will never be just friends again and that’s my comfort zone.

Thick as Thieves – I was a little nervous about Solas reviving Cassandra in the last update because I had – completely unknowingly – sort of built them into a romantic friendship. And it’s probably because I ship the hell out of them, as I do also with Solas and Dorian, that it just bled through. But I also kind of decided to roll with it. Solas is still unclear about how he feels about Cassandra but it is also more than just a regular friendship between them. I didn’t know how that would go down with readers, especially since it’s not labeled a Solas/Cassandra fic and he is already with Shay at this point.

I personally don’t have any issues with polyamory as I’m not a naturally jealous or possessive person, but I know it can be uncomfortable for some.

Code Ren – I haven’t been nervous so far, but writing this story is also like wandering around the woods with just a flashlight. I have a sort of idea about where I’m going but it’s not concrete like the other stuff I write because it wasn’t supposed to go beyond them escaping the Finalizer and now its turned into a whole TFA AU fic and geez. So we’ll see.

🎵- Did you have a playlist/piece of music that went with this story?

I have a HUGE playlist for DF. Actually, I had to break it down into different playlists and I’ve debated posting them to Tumblr and linking them in the fic if anyone is interested?

But I can give the highlights –

Theme song for the Dales/Wycombe: Lake Shore Drive by Aliotta Haynes

Theme for the Skyhold Shenanigan life: Cameras by Matt and Kim

Emerald Graves Summer Theme: Mountain Sound by Of Monsters and Men

Solas POV love song: Just a Boy by Angus and Julia Stone

Solas and Ellana: I’ve Got This Friend by the Civil Wars

I also have a pretty big playlist for Thick as Thieves, here are a few of my favs:

Fell in Love With a Girl by the White Stripes

I Think She Knows – Kaki King

When the Day Met The Night – Panic at the Disco

It Will Come Back – Hozier

Never Ever – Lord Huron (a LOT of lord huron stuff fits solas)

Nothing for Code Ren just yet

[ao3feed-merlin]

In Which Everyone Involved Is A Disaster Of Epic Proportions

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/2MWkEQs

by ursus_mari

Gwen, smitten with Arthur, is having trouble asking him out. Or talking to him at all, really. Merlin, always willing to help out his best friend, asks Arthur out for her.

Unfortunately for both of them, Arthur's sort of head over heels for Merlin. Misunderstandings ensue.

Given that they're both disasters around their crush, Arthur and Gwen enlist Morgana and Merlin respectively to guide them through the date.

Morgana's having a great time right up until Gwen confesses to be in love with her.

Words: 736, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English

Series: Part 1 of Miraculous AU

Fandoms: Merlin (TV)

Rating: General Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: F/F, F/M, M/M

Characters: Merlin (Merlin), Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Morgana (Merlin)

Relationships: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen/Arthur Pendragon (Merlin), Gwen/Morgana (Merlin)

Additional Tags: Attempt at Humor, Miraculous Ladybug AU, Episode: s01 Animan, arthur pendragon is a disaster, gwen is even more of a disaster, dumbass teenagers engaging in shenanigans

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/2MWkEQs