#to me it ties up a ton of loose ends

[foxyloueh]

I don’t really understand the dismissal of what Zayn said. Maybe he’s “lying”, but also, he didn’t say anything bad. He also didn’t say anything, as far I know or remember, that contradicts what has been said by others post-1D. And finally, based on what I saw as a fan back then, his account actually makes sense. 

Jeffery started hanging around Harry consistently as early as 2013. It’s is obvious, now, that wasn’t quite obvious as a young fan, what was going on there. And it is not a stretch to believe that Zayn in the podcast was talking about Harry when it came to potentially not signing future contracts. Jeff was literally following Harry around on their tour for a year…?? How as a bandmate are you supposed to understand that in a different way? (This isn’t a slam to Harry btw. At all. Harry had every right to want to leave just like Zayn did, like any of them)

Also with Louis and his talk about being mortified with the band ending, I’m not sure that means he totally didn’t know what was coming. Again, to me, it seemed they were all aware of an upcoming natural ending with contract stuff, and perhaps Louis thought there was a chance that some might change their mind. He could also mean that he just wasn’t prepared for the ending like the others were with post-1D plans. He didn’t mean he was clueless.

At the end of the day, there aren’t any villains in Zayn’s comment. Zayn’s not a bad person for leaving. Harry isn’t a bad person for preparing his solo career. No member is a bad person for discussing with their bandmates about how they want to proceed and having differing opinions. And imo, there is no reason not to believe Zayn.

Harry (and maybe others) likely wasn’t going to sign. He was prepared to go solo post 1D with Jeff and had been negotiating for almost a year and a half at that point. Zayn said under the awareness of contracts potentially not getting signed and politics, he wanted to be the first to go. One day he called his mom, who didn’t know up until that point he was feeling ready to leave and told her he was coming home. That’s it. Maybe something happened on that day, but I think it doesn’t matter without the context of the other stuff that was going on. Again, I don’t think there is any bad players here. The abruptness of his leaving I think was the main cause of tension post-1D more than anything else. And I think the fans that are trying to defend one member and blame another and vice versa are super lame. Nobody is bad here. They were kids. They’ve all seemed to have made peace post-1D and that’s beautiful. 

[captain-evil-bastard]

honestly i don't think mileven is endgame at all. like little to no chance. byler though is either gonna be open ended, hinted, or explicitly shown and i'm 100% sure of that, although i REALLY think the focus of s5 will be them mending their platonic relationship further. i think so there's less backlash they'll attempt to let general audiences see how they work as a pair EQUALLY unlike mileven, as well as showing that they work together on more levels than instantly getting into a relationship (ik they've been friends for years but the duffers have to make up for how mike was to will in a good chunk of s3-4).

overall i think the ACTUAL chances of the 'byler kiss' are pretty slim, but i'm not opposed to being proved wrong. we have to remember that this show has a shit ton of characters despite the focus on will this season and that they ALL need to have some loose ends tied up still as well (praying on that hopper and el duo and dustin angst arc loll)

i don't think many people will actually be upset by the implication of byler in the show aside from hardcore mileven shippers (nobody really had heavy backlash for will crushing on mike so...). i can tell you that most fans are ship neutral, if not against mileven because of their related breakups.

so overall? byler will be canon one way or another, but realistically it's not gonna be super-duper lovey dovey (considering mike is still theoretically deep in the closet). and honestly? that's still really satisfying for a mainstream show to have a significant, well built-up queer arc.

ALSO while i consider myself to be relatively objective and logical i could be wrong. argue with me! tag this when s5 rolls around and it's revealed that will is actually vecnas son and mike was a mass hallucination from stranger things fans!

[leclercsluvs]

MV1 | Echoes of Sorrow

(part 1)

an: this is sorta loosely based on a song from 2006 that i used to listen to all the time. considering it's not an english song, i'm not going too much after it, just kinda the "plot" of the song. it's danish by the duo nik & jay and its called 'når et lys slukkes' so if you're up for it you can take a listen. pairing: max verstappen x fem!reader warning: kidnapping, swearing, death, drunk driving, murder, car crash, google translated french word count: 2.8k

Max knew bringing you into his life was dangerous, but it wasn't until he got the call that he realized just how dangerous it had been. You hadn’t been in danger in the four years you’d been dating. But then again, Max didn’t quite know the dangers of what he had gotten himself into in the beginning. He thought it was just an innocent way to get a ton of money. Boy, was he wrong. Now he was sitting in a bar at 12 PM because he didn’t know what to do. It had been raining all week, and right now, it certainly wasn't helping his mood.

“Can I have a refill?” Max mumbled to the bartender, pushing his glass forward. He hadn't been here for that long, but he had definitely had more than he should have. But he needed to clear his head a little, and he couldn’t do that sober. At least, that was his excuse for ending up at the bar.

“I think you’ve had enough,” the bartender walked over to him, putting a hand in front of Max. “Can I have your keys? You’re not driving anywhere like this.”

“I didn’t bring my keys,” Max lied effortlessly. “Someone drove me here. I’ll just call a cab.” He got up and walked towards the door. He could feel the tears stinging in his eyes, but he wasn’t interested in crying in front of anyone. Not right now. He just needed a bit more liquor, and he’d be set. He could find you. You were counting on him.

In fact, you knew Max was coming. He had been telling you ever since you started dating that if anything were to happen to you, he’d be the first to start looking for you. And right now, that hope was all you needed. You needed the knowledge that someone was coming, someone was looking for you. You didn’t exactly know how you ended up tied together in the trunk of a car, but you knew this was not on your to-do list for today. You weren’t even sure who was driving the car you were in, and you couldn’t feel your phone in your pocket, so you had no way to call Max.

Max stumbled into the small convenience store and picked up a bottle of vodka. “This will probably do,” he mumbled and walked to the cash register to pay.

“Mr. Verstappen! What are you doing here so early? I didn't think you’d be back today. I don't have it here,” the owner of the store looked almost terrified to see him back. Well, to be fair, he was here collecting a big sum of money just a few days ago, and let’s just say, it didn’t quite go as everyone had wanted. They still had some cleaning up to do.

“I’m not here for business today,” Max said as he placed the bottle on the counter. “Just had to pick up this.” He looked up at the man across from him, eyes blank, on the brink of tears. He wouldn't do it yet, though. Not around people. He might be liked and respected as of right now, but all that could change oh so quickly, especially if he broke down over this. So many people in this business had suffered worse, and he was on the brink of crying because his girlfriend had been kidnapped? And he didn’t even fully know if it was true yet.

“Oh, well, that will be 20 dollars,” the store owner barely finished before the money was on the counter, bottle in Max’s hand, and he was walking towards the door. He needed time alone. Now. He needed to process.

As the car came to a stop, you couldn’t do anything but hold your breath. Would you know the person who had taken you, or would he be a total stranger? The trunk opened, and the rain disappointed you. Was it really on a rainy day you got kidnapped? A man’s face appeared, and you couldn’t help the fear creeping in.

“So, you are Max’s girl now?” he spoke with a French accent. If he wasn’t a kidnapper, you would have found it kinda hot. But under the circumstances, it was anything BUT hot.

“What do you want us to do with her?” a different voice asked. You sort of recognized it, but only faintly. Was he the one who had technically kidnapped you? Most likely.

“Get her inside. I have to call Max. He needs to know for sure that we have her. I want him in the most panicked state possible before I send the body to him.” The body? Was he talking about yours? God, you were going to die on a rainy day. How awesome. The Frenchman walked away, and his friend came into view, picking you up as easily as if you were a bag of flour. You tried everything to get out, not really interested in this new fate of yours.

Max barely made it to the car before his phone rang. He looked at the caller ID. It was an unknown number. He hesitated for a second, then realized it could be someone with news about you, so he quickly accepted the call and brought the phone to his ear. “Hello?” He unscrewed the cap on the bottle of vodka and took a quick sip as he waited for a reply from the unknown caller.

“Is this Max Verstappen?” he sighed, doubting it was about you if they had to ask if it was him.

“Yes, this is Max,” he replied while screwing the cap back on the bottle. “Who am I speaking with?”

“You should come see for yourself, if you want to see your girlfriend again,” the voice stated and gave an address. Max wasted no time getting there, tears running down his cheeks. He was silent, though; he just had to get to you, had to get you back. He couldn’t let anything happen to you. He couldn’t lose you.

Against your will, you were placed on a chair in the middle of a nicely decorated room on the second floor of a huge house. You started losing hope. They weren't going to wait long, not if their plan to send your body to Max was going to be successful. Panic and fear started to mix as you were left alone in the room with your thoughts, thoughts about how this stranger was going to murder you and then send your body to Max. You couldn’t stop imagining his face. If he knew about you by now, he would be looking for you. You knew it. It had to be like that, right? He had told you so many times. He would get to you. You needed him. Your only hope was him.

Max walked up to the front door, feeling 100% sober; however, the bottle was still in his hand. Could it be useful? Maybe if it was empty. He had to get you out alive and safe, though, so anything was helpful. The front door was slightly open, so he pushed it further open, hoping no one was there. He would like for this to be a bit of a surprise. He left his phone in the car, so it wouldn’t suddenly ring or vibrate and expose him.

The first room he stepped into was a living room, nicely decorated with a lot of expensive furniture. “This asshole sure loves spending money,” Max muttered to himself as he moved further into the house, looking behind every door he passed.

He made it into the kitchen. He hadn't run into anyone yet, but he knew it wouldn't be long, and he didn't have any way to defend himself except for the bottle. But how useful was that really? He looked around the room, and his gaze landed on a set of kitchen knives, almost glinting on the table, asking him to take one with him. So he did and moved further until he got to a staircase. He could hear faint voices coming from upstairs, but he couldn't hear who they belonged to or what the topic was. He quietly made his way up the stairs, knife ready in his right hand, bottle in his left hand. He was prepared for any surprise this might throw at him.

Before reaching the very top, he stopped and wiped his eyes before taking the last step up. He looked around, making sure they weren't right there waiting for him. He moved towards the voices, and his entire body stiffened as he heard your voice. “Don't hurt him! Please! I’ll do anything to keep him safe.” Max took a couple more steps and stopped. The voices were much louder now.

“Everything, huh?” Max heard the French accent and immediately knew who it was. Pierre. Pierre fucking Gasly. Max was seething with rage. He could feel it in every fiber of his being. “How about…” The voice trailed off, and Max heard you let out a whimper. His mind was suddenly full of all the things Pierre could be doing to you. When Max heard the second whimper, it was clear Pierre was doing something to inflict pain on you, and it was almost as if something changed inside Max. He barely had enough self-control to stay put and put together a plan, but any plan he made wouldn’t be good enough if he didn't do something now.

Just as he was about to jump in and do god knows what, he heard your voice. “Va te faire foutre,” (fuck you - google translate please lmk if it's wrong <3) you spat out, and Max couldn’t help but feel proud, even if he had no clue what you said. He stood like that for a few seconds until he heard your muffled cry, and he sprung into action, not even thinking about what he was about to do, right in front of you.

Both you and Pierre, who didn’t hear Max arrive, were startled, and rightfully so. Who wouldn't be startled if a man came at you with a knife, rage in his eyes? Max wouldn’t let anything happen, even if that meant he had to kill. He tackled Pierre in less than 2 seconds simply because Pierre wasn’t prepared. Max quickly positioned himself so Pierre had no way of moving and then brought out the knife, taunting Pierre a bit before he made his first cut. No one would be able to identify Pierre when Max was done with him. However, he hadn't noticed that you were tied to the chair, forced to watch as Max dug the knife into Pierre's skin, slowly dragging out the pain. As Pierre thought the first part was over, Max quickly placed the knife in his abdomen, making Pierre cough up a bit of blood and just look at the knife with pure shock and horror in his eyes. Max locked their eyes and kept eye contact as he twisted the knife, making Pierre groan in pain. Funnily enough, Max quite enjoyed this. He slowly pulled out the knife, but not for long; he had a lot of work ahead of him. He didn’t plan to let Pierre off the hook easily.

The red blood seemed to never stop seeping out of the many wounds inflicted by Max. It felt like it was everywhere: the carpet, the walls, Max’s hands, Pierre — a mess, not recognizable at all. Max got up and looked around to see where you might have gone, only to see you strapped to the chair, tears never stopping from falling down your cheeks as you just stared at the mess in front of you. “What did you do? What the hell did you do?!” you almost screamed, pain radiating from your voice, not only from what you had just witnessed, but also from the wound above your knee, blood trickling down your leg. He should have noticed, he should have known. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid! How could he have missed this?

He rushed to your side, putting pressure on your wound, looking around for something he could use instead of his hands, but he couldn’t see anything useful. “Please tell me you’re going to be okay,” Max said, looking at your leg; the blood didn’t stop, his hands weren’t enough.

Your face was still full of tears, your skin looking a little pale. Sweat started to cover your skin. It almost looked like you had just taken a shower in your clothes. “OMG Max,” you mumbled, barely able to get the sentence out, “did you just kill him?” You looked at him with wide eyes as a sudden headache hit you, your vision became blurry. “What’s that ringing sound?” you asked, confused, barely able to focus, anxiety creeping into your brain, consuming all your thoughts.

Max was just confused. There was no ringing. It was completely quiet, except for Pierre’s ragged breaths. “I’m not sure what you’re talking about, Schat. There is no ringing.”

“The pain stopped,” Max looked up at you, horrified at what you had just said. You couldn’t not be in pain. He couldn’t leave the scene like this, though, so he unscrewed the cap on the bottle he brought with him and poured it around Pierre. He wasn’t sure this was going to look like an accidental fire, but did he really care about that right now? No. He only cared about you, and he needed to get you to a hospital now. He quickly got you free from the chair, took a lighter out of his pocket, ripped off a small piece of fabric from his shirt, and lit it on fire. He let go of it and let it drop to the floor, where a ring of fire quickly spread around Pierre.

He had to move quickly now. He picked you up; your body already felt lifeless. He got you to the car, luckily without running into any of Pierre’s men. It was only a matter of time before they noticed the fire.

He had to get to the hospital as quickly as he could. He floored the accelerator. Getting you to the hospital was the only thing on his mind this second, and he did make it. However, your body was limp, lifeless, and he was afraid it was too late. But he still had to try; he didn't have time to feel for a pulse, just had to get you in quickly.

“Help! Please!” he walked through the doors with you in his arms, multiple doctors running towards him.

“What happened?” a nurse asked while someone else asked for a gurney.

“I’m not sure. I was told to go to a location, and I found her inside, strapped to a chair with a wound above her knee,” Max basically told the truth, except for the part about Pierre. No one had to know about that. No one would know about that.

“Put her here, and we'll do our best to save her,” the nurse gestured to the gurney being pushed towards them in a hurry. They all disappeared in a hurry, doing everything they could. Max didn’t see much, but he did see that no one gave you CPR, which must mean you had a pulse. He looked down and noticed his hands, covered in blood, which must mean his car was covered in blood too, which meant he needed to clean it.

He rushed out, rushing to his car. He had to get home, get it cleaned up. He couldn't seem to stop crying, and the fact it was raining didn’t help his vision at all. He pushed on the accelerator a bit more, his head full of thoughts: thoughts of you dying, it being his fault. He never had to get into this business. He decided to put on some music, and the song currently being played was one of the new ones from Taylor Swift. Max didn’t mind it. He actually related a little to the song. He turned up the volume and listened to the chorus of “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?”

A tear fell down his left cheek as the roads got a bit narrower. This didn't make him slow down; quite the opposite, actually. He sped up more. He liked the thrill of it. His alcohol level was way too high for him to be driving this quickly, in a part of town with a lot of traffic lights and pedestrians.

He didn't see the red light until it was too late. The woman crossing the road to reach her friend didn't notice either. Her boyfriend did, though, and he leaped out in front to try and push her out of the way. However, he didn't manage to do it in time. Max’s foot slammed down on the brake, but it was too late. Max closed his eyes; he knew how this would end. He heard a bang, and all light disappeared.

~

i haven't made a written fic since my wattpad days back in 2020 so i'm not sure how good this is. sorry about the cliffhanger hehe also very sorry i haven't posted in many days, i lowkey forgot about all of these, and then i got a tiny bit busy so when i did remember i didn't have time to write. anyway enjoy this while i work on something more

[in-a-bucket]

Project Eden's Garden CH 1 thoughts

hey so this probably isn't gonna be coherent at all cause i just finished the chapter and it took my like 12 hours to finish it so i have not slept but i just need to get my thoughts out lol

uh anyway major spoilers for the whole chapter you have been warned

so for the chapter as a whole i had a great time playing it! you can really see all the love and care put into this project. that being said, this chapter was CARRIED by it's deadly life/trial section, at least in my opinion. the daily life wasn't like terrible by any means it just didn't feel like a whole lot happened? the days felt really short, like the day you explore the new area is literally, wake up, meet in the dining hall briefly, explore the new area, and then go to bed. i was like ????? how is the day already done what. and then when the motive was introduced it was a bit lackluster, the concept was really cool with the pictures and the vague messages for the blackmail, but then we barely find out what anyone's information and the few people we do find out isn't super bad (expect for wolfgang kind of, maybe?), hell damon is not once concerned about the motive and none of the other characters seem all that concerned about it either which i think kinda brings the tension and stakes down. it's pretty evident when you find out the killer's motive as nothing to do with the blackmail and they weren't even concerned over their own blackmail so they have to create an entirely separate motive with the whole traitor perk thing, and it's not like that came out of thin air cause you're told about the secret prize from the get go i just don't get why they didn't use the motive they already made instead of revealing it all at the end of the trial from tozu.

ok whoops getting kind of off topic there but yeah daily life, it just felt like there could have been more, maybe it just has to do with the kind of guy damon is, but it kind of felt like we were dragging our feet from time to time idk maybe im just insane.

as for deadly life, holy shit they made some ballsy decisions here. can't really say whether they were good ones yet or not since we still have 5(?) more chapters but i have to respect the devs for who the first victim and killer ended up being (i'll get to them later). i remember thinking (man this is a pretty long investigation lol), although it probably didn't help that it took me forever to find the blood in the hallway i was genuinely so confused as to what i was missing I went back into all of the storage closets and like triple checked i had exgauhsted all dialogue, and then i was trying the move my mouse all over the place to see if there was anything else to search and then i finally found it.

the trial was so fucking fun, as devastated as i was due to who the victim was it was a ton of fun figuring out the crime and i genuinelly thought it was gonna be diana and i was gonna be done with the trial in about 2 hours and only to hit and intermission and realize i hadn't used like half my evidence yet. the mechanism of the crime was really cool too and i had a lot of fun solving it, even if i did start to lose the plot when it came to the stuff of the cord and the vent but that might've just been me being tired. I will say i did not enjoy the bullet hell argument whatever it's called at the very end, the artwork was really cool but it took me FOREVER to beat it, and myabe that's just cause i'm bad at video games but ti was so frustrating getting to stage 3 multiple times then loosing all of my health and having the start all over again. i think it would have been better if you run of of health you have to start from the beginning of whatever stage you died on but hey maybe i just suck at the game idk.

okay now on to some more character specific stuff, first of all WOLFGANG AKIRE YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU GAHHHH

ugh i'll admit it, i'm actually devastated he died first like seriously thank god the trial was as good as it was cause i might have stopped playing if it wasn't lol. in all seriousness though i was so excited for how he'd handle someone killing and all of the reprecussions with that only for him to die first lol. i really hope that this isn't the last we get to hear about him though, like i hope he's not just like a passing thought in ch 2 and then never mentioned again kind of a thing like hopefully he'll be plot relevant in the future or something idk i just want more wolfgang he's my fav BRING HIM BACKKKK. maybe we'll get to learn more about him through grace cause i'm now like 99% sure they knew each other before this whole mess lmao i mean come on grace wanted to be roomies with him and she was so fucking devastated by him dying and didn't want people poking around his room like come on.

and just everything you find out about his situation in the trial is just devastating oh my godddd. i was really worried they were gonna pull the whole "omg guys wolfgang was killed in self-defense and he was actually terrible this whole time and you all should have believed me(damon) cause i was right all along memememememe" and they didn't thank god. just that whole scene where diana reveals their confrontation was just so good like that is one of my top fangan scenes of all time now. just all the stuff he was saying revealing stuff about his character that might NEVER BE ELABORATED ON CAUSE HES FUCKING DEAD NOW WTFFFF WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS. and the voice acting was fucking incredible holy shit NAD THE FUCKING SPRITE WORK OH MY GOD THAT SHIT WAS AMAZING. the sprites for wolfgang and eva (i'll get to her later) were so fucking good i mean just look at this shit

LIKE THIS IS DEVESTATING TO ME LIKE HOLY FUCK BRO I NEED TO KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON IN UR HEAD AND NOW I NEVER WILL CAUSE UR DEAD UGHHHHHH

it's really funny cause i actually ended up doing all of his FTEs not knowing he was gonna die

now let's talk about eva cause holy fuck girl. i remember after the prologue she was one of my least favorite characters, cause it felt like her whole personality was "ooooo look at how mysterious and cool I am ooooooooo", but then you get the reveal that she lied about being the ultimate liar and you get her normal talent and she actually shows an actual personality and is a video game nerd i was like "omg yes i'm loving the p:eg team's take on this!" and she was moving up my character tier list ranking very quickly, and then she was revealed as the killer and she tried to pin everything on damon and then her reasons for killing wolfgang in the first place and she went right back down to the bottom LMAO. not because i thought she had bad writing or something but at the end of the day her motivations for taking the perk were pretty selfish and while i agree that wolfgang shouldn't have been trying to isolate her like that she kind of put a target on herself for no reason by lying about her talent like girl what did you think was going to happen lol. also her execution was fucking brutal, it looked incredible but damn was it brutal, she didn't need to go out like that omg.

as for some other characters, always gonna love my girls grace and cassidy they were a delight as always and i look forward to seeing more of them, diana went up on my tier list and i'm looking forward to seeing where her character goes from here, i'm also really loving jean a lot but he feels a little too helpful so i fear he might die next chapter lol.

i feel like there's more i have to say but im so tried lol so yeah have whatever this is lol. overall i had a great time playing and everyone did an amazing job working on it (even if i am really upset you killed my fav), i look forward to whatever the next chapter brings!

[peachm1lkk]

『 A Special Donation 』

Synopsis — Marcus gets a unique requests regarding his favorite-least-favorite pain pig

Warnings — NONCON, Size Difference, Belly Bulge, you wear a Collar, Degradation, reference to past Torture, choking, Abusive Relationships, past Stalking mentioned, Mild Painplay, Face Slapping, Canon-Typical Behavior, Porn Without Plot, Facials, Non-Consensual Voyeurism, He cums in your hair, Verbal Humiliation, You're not a good person lol

Pairing — Marcus x Reader

A/N — Cross posted this on AO3, I love Marcus so much... My second favorite ball of hatred who'd I'd let break all my bones.. Can you tell this is loosely based off his Patreon Audio?? Maybe

It's uncomfortable, you note— The collar snugly tied around your neck. Another thing you note, other than the fact that you probably missed a ton of work in your classes, was that he hasn't been back in a while. You weren't really used to this… silence, that overcame the apartment when you weren't sobbing or pleading with him not to hurt you.

You glances down at the amateur attempt to wrap broken fingers, your begging never really worked. A soft sigh escapes your lips as you stand up, wobbling slightly from the bit of malnutrition you've been experiencing from eating only microwave meals and cup noodles— the brief dizziness isn't helped by the fact that you usually don't eat much anyway.

On the bright side, if you can even call it that, you've been picking up baking! Making a variety of sweets whenever he wasn't paying attention to you, those days tended to be the best because other than a few random photos he left you to your own devices.

Just as you were about to walk to the living room, the door to their shared dorm rattled, a few frustrated attempts being made before Marcus finally opened it. He was probably fumbling with the keys.

“U-uh… welcome home,” you softly said, keeping your eyes on the floor.

Marcus grunted in response, tossing his backpack onto the couch. “Your friend asked where you were today.” He informed, walking up to what used to be your camera to examine how long its been recording. A hint of a smile on his face as he hit the mute button, “It's actually kinda funny how worried she seemed… Do you think she knows that she used to be featured on your blog?”

Oh he’s in that mood it seems like, you don't even know what to say. What could you say? Usually any time you spoke— whether it be to apologize or say some shitty excuse it ended with you on the floor crying.

Thankfully, he seemed content with your silence, “You can speak y’know, they can't hear us speak right now… you're little white knight saviors I mean.”

You swallowed hard, your throat dry and constricted by the collar. you kept your gaze fixed on the floor, afraid to meet Marcus's eyes.

"I... I don't know," you whispered, your voice hoarse from disuse. "I never told anyone about it."

Marcus chuckled darkly, stepping closer. You instinctively flinched away, but the wall behind you left nowhere for you to retreat.

"Oh, I'm sure you didn't," he said, reaching out to run a finger along your collar. "Our little secret, right?" His touch made your skin crawl, but you forced yourself to remain still. Any reaction could set him off.

"You know," Marcus continued conversationally, "Someone made a donation today— A uh, what do you call it again? A commission, right.” you eyed him nervously as he walked over to the computer reading over past comments and forums regarding the live stream.

“Hey Piggy, you ever had sex before?” The question was as sudden as it was startling, “Pardon..?”

“I'm assuming you've had sex at least once since you have an ex and all that, but y'know… you're also you so I wouldn't be surprised if you've only seen two dicks in your life.” He goes on, much too casually for how personal the subject was— But maybe you didn't have a right to complain about privacy, god knows how many other people's privacy you've violated on those now privated posts.

“Hey pig, answer me.” The irritation in his voice has you tripping over your own words to get an answer out "You're right u-uhm… only done it with my ex.” you stammered, messing with the hem of your shirt with your good hand. “ No one else after that…”

Marcus's eyes gleamed with a mix of cruelty and excitement that made You's stomach churn. You could sense something terrible was coming. "You know how many times I thought about killing you when I found your little stalker forum?” He said changing subjects, grabbing the camera perched upon its stand. “I mean— It's disgusting, even now I still think about strangling you to death… Just the thought that you probably touched yourself to my photos makes me sick.” He takes a deep breath, his finger hitting a button on the camera that you couldn't remember the function for.

“How many times have you cum at the thought of my dick inside you?”

You felt sick, knowing that he wasn't entirely wrong “M-Marcus I'm sorry,” you whispered, even knowing it was futile you can never get rid of the instinct.

"Well, looks like today's your lucky day," he said with a smirk. "Our generous donor wants to see you fucked." Your eyes widened in horror. "What," you whispered, your voice trembling. "I-I can't...”

Marcus ignored your plea, grabbing your arm roughly. “And even if I can't kill you— I might as well fuck you like I'm gonna, right?”

He dragged you towards the bedroom, You stumbling behind him as you tried to resist. But months of captivity and malnourishment had left your weak and unsteady.

"Please, Marcus," you begged as he shoved you onto the bed. “I’m sorry I'm so sorry— please don't do this."Marcus laughed coldly as he loomed over your trembling form on the bed. "Sorry? You're sorry?” He mocked, “Sorry doesn't fucking pay for all the gross ass photos you’ve taken of me does it, pig?"

He set up the camera on the nightstand, angling it to capture the entire bed. Your heart raced as you heard the telltale beep of it starting to record.

“C'mon, Let's give our viewers a good show, I know how much you love their attention after all." Marcus whispered against the shell of your ear, You shuddered as Marcus's breath ghosted across your skin. Your mind raced, desperately searching for a way out of this nightmare, but you were trapped - physically and psychologically. Months of captivity and abuse had worn away your defenses.

"Please," you whimpered one last time, even as Marcus began pulling at your clothes.

He ignored your feeble protests, methodically stripping your bare. The camera's unblinking eye recorded every moment of your humiliation. You squeezed your eyes shut, trying to retreat into yourself, to find some quiet corner of your mind that this wasn't happening. But Marcus wouldn't allow you that small mercy. He grabbed your face, forcing you to look at him. "Eyes open," he growled. "I want you to see exactly who's doing this to you."

Tears streamed down You's cheeks as Marcus positioned himself over your. Tugging his own pants down to let his thickness free, “Ha… ha— You're just meat…” He mumbles slowly stroking himself to full hardness, “Meat that was born to be taken advantage of, it was only a matter of time before someone found out… I was just the less cruel option.”

You choked back a sob as Marcus's words cut through your like knives. you wanted to argue, to insist that you weren't just "meat," that you were a person with hopes and dreams and dignity. But Maybe he was right. Maybe this was all you deserved. Marcus lined himself up, his eyes locked on You's tear-streaked face. "Remember," he whispered, "you brought this on yourself."

With that, he thrust forward brutally, burying himself inside your unprepared body. You cried out in pain, your back arching off the bed. It hurt - oh god, it hurt so much. But the physical pain was nothing compared to the crushing weight of shame and despair.

"That's it," Marcus grunted, placing a hand on your lower stomach "Cry for the camera. Show everyone what good rape bait you are.” He cooed, setting a brutal pace forcing his cock as far as your gummy walls allowed it — “ For once you being small is actually a plus,” he panted in between thrusts, watching the small bump in your stomach appear and disappear in time with each thrust.

His eyes glanced over at the camera, a part of him feeling truly disgusted at the type of people watching— But at the same time it made his dick throb so much harder, “You like that? Showing everyone that you're just a flesh light, hm?”

Your body shook with each brutal thrust, pain radiating through your core. Despising how despite the pain his deep fucking was enough to tickle the instinct out, to pull wetness that with each slap of his pelvis pressing against your ass a damned embarrassing wet squelch was made.

"Answer me," he snarled, grabbing your hair and yanking your head back. "Tell the camera how much you love being used like the worthless cum dump you are."

A strangled whimper escaped You's lips. "I-I..." you gasped, barely able to form words through the pain and humiliation. "I luh—love being- being u-used."

Marcus's pace grew even more frantic, his grip on your hips bruising. "That's right," he panted. "This is all you're good for. Just meat to stick my dick in…” Holding your hips up with one hand his free hand snakes down to your throat- applying pressure slowly

“Meat that doesn't need to—shit—breathe.” He mumbles, You's vision begins to blur as Marcus's hand tightens around your throat. Her lungs burned, desperately craving oxygen. Panic overwhelmed you as darkness crept in at the edges of your sight. Just as you thought you might lose consciousness, Marcus released his grip. You gasped and coughed, gulping in air. The brief respite was short-lived as Marcus resumed his relentless assault on your body.

"Fuck," he grunted, his thrusts loosing pace and becoming erratic. “You felt so tight just then, do you really get off to me raping you? Are you that cock hungry?” He teased, letting his hand fall to your puffy clit- rubbing cruel circles all over the ball of nerves “Fuck… I'm close. Where do you want it, pig? Where should I mark you as mine?"

You couldn't answer, still struggling to catch your breath. Her silence seemed to anger Marcus further. The burning sensation of his hand registering first before you realized he'd slap you, cruel fingers digging into your cheek, forcing you to look at him. "I asked you a question," he snarled. "Where. Do. You. Want. It?"

With pained moans you refused to believe came from genuine pleasure you stammered out a shaky response, “O-out— puh-please, not in- in me.” you sobbed,

Marcus's eyes glinted with cruel amusement. "Not inside, huh? Well, since you asked so nicely..." With a final brutal thrust, he pulled out of your abused body. You barely had time to feel relief before he was straddling your chest, his hand gripping your jaw tightly.

"Open wide," he commanded, stroking himself furiously. Too broken to resist, You parted your lips. Marcus groaned as he reached his climax, his release splattering across your face and into your open mouth. You gagged at the thickness and slimy texture, but Marcus held your still until he was finished.

"There," he panted, wiping himself clean on your hair. "Now everyone can see what a filthy little whore you really are."

He climbed off your, tucking himself into his pants. And walking over to the camera to stop the recording, leaving You trembling and soiled on the bed. you curled into yourself, trying your best to tune it all out and just go to bed.

“Oh, piggy—” He started grabbing your attention, “You have an essay due or something, your professor stopped me earlier today to tell you that.” He casually explained, as if he didn't just rape you.

“I should probably go work on that project... Pretty sure it's due soon,” He said to himself, lifting the camera up to eye level. You flinched at the familiar clicking sound of the camera, trying to keep your soft crying to a minimum even after hearing him mumble something about the picture probably not printing well. You lay motionless on the bed, your mind struggling to process the trauma you had just endured. Every part of you ached - your body from the brutal assault, your throat from Marcus's choking, your very soul from the depths of degradation you had been forced to.

you could hear Marcus moving around the apartment, the casual sounds of everyday life a stark contrast to the horror of what had just transpired. The urge to scrub yourself clean was overwhelming, but You couldn't bring yourself to move. you feared any motion might shatter what was left of your fragile psyche.

Time passed in a haze. You drifted in and out of consciousness, your exhausted mind seeking escape in fitful snatches of sleep. You were vaguely aware of Marcus returning to the bedroom at some point, muttering about needing his textbook.

"You should really get started on that essay," he remarked “It's due in a few days.”

[legobiwan]

Another story idea:

One of the - and I hesitate to call them "issues" as I think the series is pretty complete on its own - but one of the loose threads from the end of Gravity Falls Season 2 I'd like to tug at is the ease with which Ford finds redemption after his return to his dimension.

On the surface, it seems like the only person he needs to work to reconcile with is his brother, with whom he can barely share a civilized conversation with until after the zodiac is broken and the elder Pines twins are left seemingly helpless in Bill's improvised prison.

And yes, Ford gets the kick in the ass he needs after his brother's memory is erased (at his own hand), as he realizes at that juncture just how much his hubris has cost him (even if he hadn't consciously valued the relationship with his brother before, there have been steady hints throughout the series and books that Ford values Stan in some way, even if he's shit at showing it).

But it's all...rather easy.

McGucket asserts that he's done forgetting and ready to forgive, even though he was probably the biggest victim to Ford's actions and ego throughout the entire series. (There was another post I saw around here about "hurt people hurt people." Bill may have been awful to Ford, but Ford was almost equally as awful to Fiddleford).

Give me a story where McGucket starts to gain back those memories - of his anxiety and panic and near-slavish devotion to a man who barely gave him the time of day. Give me a Fiddleford who won't take Ford back after this all comes back to light, who finally grows a spine and cuts ties with someone who mistreated him for years.

Give me a story where Mabel is outwardly enthusiastic towards Ford, but also afraid. Afraid that she's not enough for him, that she can't be her brother, that Ford will look down on her. Give me Mabel acting out in her most-Mabelest ways to try to both win over Ford and smooth out the relationship between him and Stan (and knowing she's a child coming from an unsettled home life, this hits all the worse).

Give me a story where Dipper realizes the truth of the old quote, "never meet your heroes." Where he finally come to terms with the fact that Ford is just a person - and a very flawed person, at that. A person who nearly sold the world for his ego and worse yet, held his grunkle and sister with little regard, held Dipper's own future with little regard except how it would benefit Ford.

And yes, finally, give me a story where Stan and Ford have the seriously hash things out. Where they ned to come to terms with their trauma from their youth (and the one thing I can't blame Ford for is what happened with the science fair project. Stan shouldn't have been there and he knew better. Stan also knew he was less than second banana to his brother his entire life, and his father made no bones about showing it. Say what you will, but an almost-18-year-old Ford was never going to react well to that situation, nor would he totally understand the consequences of Filbrick kicking Stan out at that age. Stan was also horrifically co-dependent on his brother, something his parents should have helped to sort out way earlier). Stan needs to sort his issues with both his (now-assumedly-dead) parents, as does Ford. Ford needs to come clean as to the who, what, where and why of Oregon. And Stan needs a reason to live for himself, and not for others - especially not his brother, from whom he has an almost desperate need for affection. (And you have to wonder, after 30 years...now that he's gotten Ford back, is there some kind of pit that's opened up in Stan, some raison d'être that's vanished leaving him uncertain as to everything in life, even with Ford vowing change and ships and adventures from his end. That's got to be one hell of a whiplash).

Anyway, what I'm saying is I love Ford but there's a ton he has to reckon with, and worst off, he has to reckon with other people if he truly wants to change. (And oh no, can I think of another two-dimensional being who may be going through the same thing in a time-warped psychiatric institution, hmmm, I wonder...)

[popculturebuffet]

Life and Times of Scrooge McDuck Finale: The Richest Duck in the World "And As Usual, He Was!"

Hello all you happy people and welcome to the finale of my life and times of scrooge mcduck retrospective! It's been a duck blur, from starting this years ago, to a years long hiatus to Kev paying for me to finish it, btu we're finally here. The final chapter of Don Rosa's masterpiece. Coming out the other side of this LIfe and Times is still one of my faviorite comics of all time and I'm glad to finish it. Kinda. There are a ton of bonus chapters Rosa did throughout the rest of his career, as well as an upcoming new chapter from another author entirely, all of which i'm up for covering at some point. There's a few I definitely want to get to in paticuarl: The three goldie stories (one pre life and times two with the label) that help flesh out here and Scrooge's past, the wonderful "Letter From Home" that gives ups Matilda's return and ties up that loose end, and my personal faviorite "Dream of a Lifetime", a one shot tale that goes through just about every chapter of life and times via Scrooge's dreams for one hell of an epilouge. None of these are necssary but they all feel like good companion pieces to the story and i'm glad Rosa did these interquels among others. I also have an itch to cover more duck material in general as while it has the cynical boost of having more viewers than normal for my content, it's also something I forgot HOW much I loved in the content lull after Ducktales end. And as a wise man once said.. there's always another rainbow. What it'll be i'm not sure yet, but you can expect at least one duck adventure next month.

For now though we're finishing the main story and it's while a lot of plans changed or shifted over this 12 issue saga, one thing was always in the cards: he wanted to end the story where Scrooge's story began all those years ago, with the finale taking place the day after the bulk Night on Bear Mountain. For those less familiar, and I wasn't when I started this though i've since covered the story, Night on Bear Mountain is the very FIRST Scrooge story, with Scrooge inviting his nephews for Christmas to scare them but being impressed by the end and thus inviting them for CHristmas Diner. This story shows what happens in between while also explaning the discrepency between the Scrooge we see in that story and who he'd be in the rest of his meaty cagalogue. In night on bear mountain Scrooge is diffrent, wearing a long robe, living in an isolated mansion (Keep in mind comics scrooge just lived at the bin), with him being more myth than actual person Donald just.. visits every day.

This story bridges that gap, explaning how Scrooge got his groove back, shows his first proper adventure with his nephews, and how he went from only a poor old man to the greatest adventuerer who ever lived once again. If this sounds familiar Ducktales 2017 did something similar, having Scrooge having mostly retired after loosing Della and years of searching for her, with the boys and webby reignting that spirit in much the same way, with Donald busy with a job offer that turned out to be an elaborate scheme. I still love they did that and it's a testiment ot how much impact this story had on the reboot: while a lot of Scrooge's past was changed, including his parents still being alive, the comic was, as I belivie I mentioned in the first entry, required reading for staff and stands as an important inspiration for one of the greatest cartoons ever made and quite possibly my faviorite.

So let's dive into the bin one last time as Scrooge rediscovers himself, Huey , Dewey and Louie discover a legend and Donald won't shut the fuck up.

We open with a Citizen Kane Homage as Scrooge whispers goldie while holding a snowglobe. He isn't dead, won't be till the 60's in rosa's eyes. For now though he's become a recluse as a newsreeel overs over his life and how his last public apperance was 17 years ago, when he threw out his family seemingly for good. We get some neat cameos as we see Grandma Duck again, this time in her glory days, who hasn't seen Scrooge since she sold him most of her land bar the farm.. and Gus when he corrects her that the old coot also came by to forclose on the chicken coop. Gus is Donald's cousin. He eats a lot, sleeps more and is somehow lazier than our boy. Which is possible. We also see Gladstone, the bastard and donald who shoves a hand in the camera.

At this point the Bin is just a legend, with no one really knowing if it's actually full of cash, something four familiar fowl talk about as they watch the newscast: Donald and his nephews, Huey, Dewey and Louie. After 12 chapters we're to the present day of duckberg and where it all began as they prepare for that christmas dinner I mentioned. The boys wonder if it could be true while Donald dismisses it: no rich person could've EARNED IT and he assumes Scrooge inherited it.. somehow. Which baffles me a bit as while I'm sure Hortense, like 2017 Donald, tried not to bring Scrooge up, she wouldn't of.. not brought up her childhood in scotland or the rest of her family. They didn't throw her out. Granted Donald does have a talent for self delusion and we don't know how young the kids were when she died, so there's wiggle room it just annoys me a little

What Annoys mea lot is Donald who throughout this whole story constantly says everything about Scrooge is fake. That he probably bought it on crusies. It annoys be a bit less this readthrough as having become fed up with most present day billionares.. yeah most do. This just happens to be the one whose a bastard AND worked hard to earn it. But it's still a very one note gag: Donald is up his own ass and dosen't know what we know or has seen what we've seen and thinks his uncle's only a poor old man.

It's not story breaking, but it is repetitive.

Thankfully we move on to the mansion proper as Scrooge's butler Jeeves, and no that's not me goofing up Duckworth was created for the show, ushers them in.. and as Scrooge slowly stirs.. we see him, in a truly awesome panel

I love all the detail here: the bits of stubble, the tired eyes, how sunken he looks in genearl. This is a Scrooge who has given up: he's retired from work to rot in a mansion, having nothing left and is a shell of what he once was and will be again. I also give Rosa credit for using Scrooge's first apperance design still: he had the time for Scrooge to change.. but him not having done so is a symbol of just how deep in the depression hole he is: as someone whose been in them I relate to clearly not having taken care of yourself in some time, just sitting there letting time pass as you feel you have nothing left.

The boys being their usual charming hive minded selves are delighted to meet their great uncle. Though we get a really sad bit as he notes most family he has has.. disappeared. He dosen't know matilda is alive, and he certainly heard what happened to Hortense. The boys do genuinely welcome him in but he balks, figuring their all after inheretiance. Donald claps back that you spent it all on this place ya jackass.

Scrooge insscensed decides the time has come to do something he rarely does but is sacred to the rich: flashing his cash. Specicially he has his butler.. dress him. Okay Scrooge you need either boundries with your butler or a more equal relationship if you want to keep fucking him. Trust me i've hit on the help too. The help was a gorgon's head but I didn't make her dress me.. hades didn't give me that option because their sane.

He takes them to the Bin, which is decayed.. though Scrooge has been keeping the booby traps fresh and keeps the weeds simply because it's good security: if a place LOOKS abandoned and unloved, people will think that. And it mostly has been, Scrooge having retired isn't using it. Still he kept the most important part of it, the cash ocean itself, but our heroes pass the second most important part first

This little tirade, while very in character.. is also very Rosa speaking his piece, as he hated stories (even barks own) where the Dime was implied to be magic. Whlie his old man yells at cloud behavior often has me shaking my head.. I agree on this one. The dime is better as a symbol that motivated scrooge than as a plot device and it cheapens the man's skill to say the Dime is responsible. I don't mind Magica trying to use it for a power source as THAT makes sense: it has a lot of emotional energy from being around scrooge as he got his fortune, the weight of having traveled the world with him for most of his life and being what started a great man on his path. I like the idea that kind of object with that kind of emotoinal baggage has power, kinda like what adventure time did with Hambo and PB's Shirt she got from marcy. It's magical yes but it fits the world better and makes it clear the dime is impressive because of SCROOGE not the other way around. Somehow Lorcana didn't get the memo

The description and image are perfect, as is the fact it's SHOCKINGLY powerful I just don't get why Number One Dime wasn't considered.

One he unveils the bin though it DOES shock his nephew and even DONALD can't say anything for a change

I do like that explination.. it dosen't scan with every Scrooge story as there are countless that say his bin really is the McDuck version of one piece, from the aformentioned Christmas for Shacktown to the very first Scrooge lead story "Only a Poor Old Man". I'm not against this: Rosa had a tendency to pick and choose which parts of Bark's stories to make canon to his stories, wanting a more cohesive universe and while clearly respecting the man to a sometimes stifling degree, recognized not everything from stories not really built to have a continuity was going to stick together. As reverent as he is to barks, to an annoying degree at times like his feeling put out at having to include Fethry despite being an entirely valid character with loads of potetial simply because one man didn't create him (Not saying barks isn't fucking amazing, he is, but it's a petty reason not to use good characters).. I can respect Rosa for knowing what he wanted in his own canon and what to keep as well as having said multiple times his stories dont' stack up to his idols. I disagree on that statment as while Barks IS better in some ways, for all I gripe about the guy sometimes... Rosa is a truly talented writer, one of the best duck writers there ever was and while Time's made me see the cracks in the guy.. ti dosen't make him any less special or any less vital to duck canon. Ther'es a reason most writers either honor his stories or consider them canon alongside barkses. The man has a degree of talent, care and love that's hard to come by and while I may disagree with some of his choices at times... I can't help but love the guy still.

So anyway that suspcious santa might have set you off.. turns out the santas near the bin were beagle boys, scoping out a hesit and lead by Scrooge's old enemy blackheart, whose descendants indeed got to fucking as he hoped.

As is duck story standard they easily capture our heroes despite scrooge being way more badass than all of them combined... Donald too honestly... the boys also. Honestly a paper bag could probably beat the beagle boys and they somehow win when the plot says so, though this time at least theirs a valid excuse; Donald and the boys are new at adventuering, having gone on a few solo adventures pre scrooge while Scrooge has given up on the world and thus surrenders to being thrown.. though he is pissed they once again bring up the lucky dime thing. So before he can snap out of it let's talk about this dperession and self loathing: honestly while he'd never say it, even Ducktales 2017 scrooge both hides what happened with Della from the kids and refuses to apologize to Donald for a decade despite being almost entirely in the wrong, it's clear loosing his sisters did hurt him: he had his money but nothing else and with nothing to really fight for and his lifelong goal achieved he just.. gave up. It dosen't feel like scrooge ... but that's the point: just as his horrible actions in africa weren't really him, not striving, not searching not trying to build his empire simply because he's seemingly won.. isn't him. Without anyone to share it with... his bin is just a pile of coins, memetos of better days.

So the thing that busts him out of his stupor... are his nephews. The boys search furiously for some way out, unlike Donald and Scrooge not ready to give up and find his old mining gear... while Donald.. well Donald inspires him in his own way

I love this and it's something I really hadn't thought about before but think of now, especially since again Woo-Hoo! takes some steps from this, having Louie take Donald's place as the doubting asshole, and have the boys as a whole, like Donald question if Scrooge really was this big or is just some old man, leading him to ragefully prove them wrong.. granted Scrooge's attempts in Woo-Hoo are more laughable as he plans to go diving to prove children wrong, something Beakley lampshades, but he still gets the step of showing them what he cna do by dealing with everything they unleash in his garage, similar to how here the combined menaces of Donald's jerkassery and the Beagle Boys scheme finally awakens the beast. I also love the subtle note of Scrooge taking off his coat, revealing his usual coat underneath. It's something I again hadn' tnoticed before this re-read, but ti's a very ncie touch... Scrooge the doddering old man given up on everything is gone. Scrooge McDuck, Last of the Clan McDuck, Master of the Missippi, Buckaroo of the Badlands, Raider of the Copper Hill, Laird of Castle McDuck, Terror of the Transyval, Dreamtime Duck of Never Never, King of The Klondike, Billionare of Dismal Downs, Invader of Fort Duckburg, Empire Builder from Callisota... THE Richest Duck in the world is back.

And since he's back he decides to go after the beagles, having the boys haul his trunk. I also really like this joke.

Look donald is my boy, and even in a story where he's not on his a game.. he's still Donald. He's bound to have at least one good moment or two.

The two notice scrooge a coming and take off.. but they left an other Sleigh which Scrooge quickly takes, and begins using a cavlcade of his skills. We've seen his mining, now we see his ablility to tame any animal. It's not as impressive as a lion but he dosen't have time to get to the zoo so a horse'll do.

We also get ANOTHER choice gag. While not all of rosa's comedy lands for me.. the guy really nails it a lot of the time and it's a part of his writing talent that dosen't get praised enough.

Honestly this chapter is easily the funniest next to the invader of fort duckberg, likely because with the dramatic part of Scrooge's life mostly worn down, we have more room for some comedy.

Blackheart has them step on it as he realizes he's no longer dealing with a hollowed out shell of a man but the guy whose beat him twice and is ready to abide by rule of three. We get some fun callbacks as scrooge uses his gold pan as a discus to knock out the driver of the beagle boys then takes out the rest, minus blackheart who grabs the dime for leverage, with his boomerang from his time in australia. This also leads to another fucking phenominal gag

Scrooge then ties up the rest of the non blackheart beagles using his roping tricks, with the officers that poor woman called rounding the boys up. All that's left is blackheart who naturally, as our big bad for the chapter, final antagonist of the story and the foe Scrooge has fought the most on this journey, gets the best takedown of all

Such an awesome moment: The same thing that finally brought Scrooge's dream to reality... is what helps cement his return to his truest self: he may be a mean old man.. but he's tougher than the toughies, sharper than the sharpies, smarter than the smarties and he made his money square.

That said the adrenline does wear off slightly.. until...

I had to share the scene in full.. because it's so damn good. After a whole journey, after seeing Scrooge at his lowest.. we see his core. Something that speaks against ageism: your body may age, but your never too old to start over, to have a second chance.. to chase another rainbow. The quality of your lives are what you make of them also really gets me.

IT's also a nice return to form as the bin being public.. dosen't bother them. Let them come: he's fought off worse and he'll fight them again. I also love him kicking donald's butt. He's just enough of a jerk in this story to well deserve it.

So Scrooge is now fully back: he decides to reopen the office, sell the mansion and get back to work.. and take the boys with them. While he dosen't say it being the stubborn old bastard we know and love... he needs these boys. Adventure is nothing if you don't have anyone to share it with.. .and once again he has someone to share it with. Once again he has family.

So he celebrates with a swim, with the boys astounded at his ability btu Donald unable to understand his uncle: all he seems to have is cold metal... but he could be wrong...

This ending gets me... a reminder it's both never too late (Something I need at only 32, which in tumblr years is 90), and that a life well lived is one not lived alone, that the things that make us who we are good and bad.. are the greatest adventure of all.

The Richest Duck in the World is a well done capper, feeling like a lost modern scrooge adventure, that missing piece in the story that Rosa happily filled in for us. Donald again can be a bit much, even in the stories final page he still hasn't quite got the hint, it's not one of his better stories.. but it dosen't take away from this as an ending.. and a beginning. Of a man who lost everything that mattered finding it again. Of an epic story of one man's life, what made him who he was, and what he gained, lost and ultimately found again.

Life and Times.. is one of the best comics of all time,the best duck comics story ever, and only not currently the best duck story PERIOD because ducktales 2017 is so freaking good. And even then while that series beats it over all as an individual story this 12 part epic still trumps it's worthy successor. It's a labor of love that's massive in scope, character work and gorgeous art work. It's a true masterpice that needs to be read again and again and one i was very happy to cover. I found stuff I disliked sure, a chapter or two had pacing issues, some things didn't land.. but ti's hard to deny what a fucking triumph this book is. Only one other comic I can think of comes this close to distilling a characters essence down into 12 issues, and even then All Star Superman, while excellent didn't also have the task of trying to be in continuity. Life and Times is a masterpiece and it was a joy coverinmg it and the dream of a life time finishing this journey> Thank you all for reading.. and see you next rainbow.

[decepti-thots]

here is an ask that is a free excuse to talk about any disco elysium prowldome thoughts you have because i am FASCINATED by it in the abstract but having a hard time nailing it down

so your original tags on the post this relates to specified that CD is Kim (and therefore, Prowl is Harry) and that is what actually made me really interested. because not making the self-destructive amnesiac character CD (who in canon is... that in a different way) was SO interesting to me. i will cut this both for potential DE spoilers and also so people can choose whether or not to read my overlong ramblings. lmao.

so the thing about DE as a text is that it's doing a really specific thing gameplay wise, derived from the biggest inspiration it has mechanically, which is the game Planescape Torment. specifically it is doing this thing where the idea of the amnesiac protagonist as a 'clean slate' is troubled by constant catastrophic interaction with NPCs that knew your player character before they lost their memory, so while you as the player are roleplaying as them as vessels to project yourself onto because of their diagetic memory loss, you are constantly having that fantasy of 'starting over fresh' and total control over them as an agent undermined by the reality that other people remember them, and their influence on this fictional world pre-dates your own.

i think that's SUCH a fascinating lens through which to look at what Prowl does as a character; his constant attempts at- and more to the point failure at- reinvention, because the thing that constantly gets in his way is always... himself. his own past actions catching up to him and his inability to handle that. right? so he's an incredibly interesting kind of archetype to put into this story just because the thing that always undermines him is his inability to get away from his impact on other people. he can change how he feels or who he is, but he can't change what he's done. this is a really great character to put into a narrative role like Harry in DE.

the thing is that Chromedome is not Kim, because the entire point of Kim is to give you someone to make that new first impression on. right? Kim is the character from out of town who knows of you by reputation but has no pre-existing relationship to you as an actual person. who you decide to play Harry as in the moment becomes who Kim knows you to be.

if Chromedome is anyone, surely he's. you know. Harry's ex he keeps alienating by calling her and freaking her out begging her to come back because he thinks they're inevitable and he refuses to tolerate life without her. he's Dora, at least very loosely. (well. he could be Jean, i guess. but like. I do not give a fuck about Jean. sorry.)

so i was thinking this over and like... a DE version of these two where the twist is that you think Chromedome is Kim and this is how these two meet on a case and become (professional) partners, and in reality he's been lying since realising that Prowl has no memory and he is, in fact, the ex that Prowl's limbic system keeps dropping hints he's really fucked up over (and who he has lingering repressed guilt over the knowledge he did in some way fuck over)... i think that's how i see this working tbh. it's fascinating to imagine how Chromedome would like. respond to that. and what his motivations are- both what they start off as and where they end up depending on how things go, and what an amnesiac Prowl decides to do and how he chooses to conduct himself.

there are a lot of things that i think are completely inextricable from DE even in the context of vague wonderings about silly hypothetical fandom AUs. first off, DE is about politics, and the kind of person Harry becomes in the face of his amnesia is tied extremely closely to that. fandom tends to gloss over the fact that a ton of Prowl's negative development in exRiD specifically is also linked to that comic making some points about politics, i feel; it's not that they're subtle or anything lmao, fandom just tends to focus on characters in a very individualist sense that doesn't always line up with what that comic is using them for. Prowl is someone who refuses to relinquish wartime power (and the abuses thereof) in the aftermath of a (from his perspective, still ongoing) conflict. and he is the guy, in DE, who would have been intellectually sympathetic towards the revolution, but he'd also have been working to put it down. (also, this is clearly different from Harry, who grew up in the aftermath of its failure, the generation dealing with an after that was traumatic.) and so much of Prowl's moves towards that tight grip on authoritarian power in exRiD comes from a contextually developed fear- both for himself (if he relinquishes his sunk cost fallacy there are a lot of things he did that were not justified) and for the society he imagines is under constant risk of falling into chaos if he does not. but what does he believe when he doesn't remember all the things that brought him to that point? i mean, the prowl we saw in Shadowplay thinks very differently than the one we see in the present. and specifically Roberts writes Prowl as someone whose initial drive was to try and escape the war and its conflicts altogether. so your angle there is very in line with what DE does with Harry and his amnesia, I think.

Chromedome meanwhile... i think the idea of a post-war Chromedome who has survived his own attempts at self-destruction and come to loathe Prowl playing this role of silent, judgemental observer of Prowl with this ostensible opportunity to change, who lies about not knowing Prowl as a kind of mirror to the way Chromedome has erased other relationships in his life to avoid confronting the pain of them... is really interesting, honestly. (there are versions of this where he is married to Rewind and there are versions of this where Rewind is at least temporarily still dead, and i like both tbh.) does Chromedome want Prowl to be able to genuinely change through this? perhaps the cracks in his story start showing when unlike Kim, he responds with increasing frustration at Prowl actually doing so, a thing it doesn't make sense for him to be bitter about if he's really a stranger. meanwhile Prowl is clearly and immediately latching onto Chromedome as someone he has decided he admires, and declares trust in. (harry idealizes kim a lot; the vision he has of dora, too, calls him out on literally deifying her; and we see in idw canon that for all his irritation with Chromedome now he casually asserts ludicrous stuff like 'you're literally too fantastic at your job for it to kill you' and so on.) had Chromedome comfortably convinced himself that was all bullshit and Prowl has no actual remaining feelings towards him, that it was all just to get Chromedome to do useful shit for him when he snapped his fingers? does seeing evidence to the contrary- that Prowl's feelings continue to be, annoyingly, real and genuine- destabilize him?

god there's a TON more i want to think about here. obviously there are a lot of things DE explores that bringing into this complicates as well. DE talks about suicidality and addiction extensively, obviously, for starters. (which are probably themes most people would automatically project onto Chromedome, which makes this specific configuration really interesting, i think.) the inevitable futility of trying to be an individual who is 'one of the good ones' in a system where that doesn't matter and will never allow you to be. you could probably tie that in with functionism if you wanted, and Prowl's seeming baseline agreement with at least some parts of that system on some level despite it clearly not benefiting him overmuch. right? there's a lot of potential room to engage directly with not just the basic plot setup of DE but its actual themes i think, which sort of surprised me to realise. (and is why it kept bopping around in my head, because that's really the only way i would be interested in a fusion AU kind of thing modelling itself on Elysium; i'm not here for the trope-y setup, i'm here for what DE actually does thematically and the crunchier topics it commits to exploring.)

anyway. please consider. you know that skill check you can get in the last dream with Dora? the one you can 'succeed' and it's really, really bad to do so, actually? yeah. please consider that skill check in this context. ahahaha. I SURE AM

[apomaro-mellow]

Steve had a puppy au from this ask

Elaine knew that her sister and her husband often left their son alone. And honestly, that just wasn't good for the boy. She had talked to her sister about it, it wasn't like she had to follow Richard around, but Margaret wasn't hearing it. So Elaine put it on herself to give young Steve a companion. In the form of a cavalier spaniel puppy. Twelve year old Steve had been over the moon when he met her for the first time.

Steve named her Lady. And she kept him company when his parents were out of town. Because they were gone so much, they didn't really mind at first. Barely noticed her. Steve wanted to prove himself, so he read a ton of books on caring for dogs. He learned to house train her, keep her from tearing into things, and even not to bark too loud. It helped that Lady was already so prim and proper to begin with.

She was a proper Harrington lass in Steve's eyes. And it was nice to have someone around when the sun went down and he was all alone in this big house. Whenever she laid her head on his leg or chest and gazed up at him, Steve felt like he was really being seen.

Eventually, there came a time when his parents were actually home for a decent stretch. Steve had had Lady for two years and had been using his allowance and birthday money to buy things for her. She had the fluffiest dog bed and a whole basket of toys.

"Lady!", Steve called out by the front door. "Time for a walk!"

Her little feet bounded against the floor, grating on Richard as he thought of a clumsy dog crashing into something in his house.

Lady would follow Steve to go and get the mail, barking happily to the postman, which annoyed Margaret to no end when she heard it day in and day out. Her shedding disgusted them. They didn't like how she roamed the house like she owned it.

Finally, Richard laid down the law. "Get rid of it", he ordered.

"Of what?", Steve asked, in the middle of figuring out some algebra homework. Eight grade was hard but Lady made it easier when she rested by his feet.

"Of the dog. She doesn't belong here."

"She does more than you", Steve glared.

"Watch your tone."

"I'm not getting rid of Lady", Steve said as he stood to his feet. Lady's head perked up.

Richard's hand went for her and Steve smacked it away. Sensing aggression, Lady got to her feet and started to growl. Before Richard could retaliate towards his own son, she lunged and bit into his hand. His scream prompted his wife to come into the room. Margaret stood between her husband and son, keeping Steve from going after his father as he held Lady by her scruff and took her away.

Steve watched from his window as Lady was driven away. Probably to the pound or out on the street, he didn't know which was worse. But he knew he'd never forgive his parents.

He missed Lady every time he thought about her, so he tried not to think that much. It got easier every time Hawkins was under attack. But with the defeat of Vecna, it felt like the closing of the final chapter. All loose ends had been tied. All that was left was healing and rebuilding.

Both physical and mental for one Eddie Munson, who found himself laid up at the hospital for several weeks. Luckily, he wasn't bored. He had a visitor nearly every day, the most surprising of which being Steve Harrington.

"Can't believe I get to hold court with the king nearly every day", Eddie said when Steve came in again.

"Of course you do, you're my court jester. I'm just here ahead of Wayne. He said he had a surprise and wanted me to warn you not to go over the top. Apparently he's sneaking someone in?"

Eddie could hear the apprehension in his voice and smiled to reassure him. "Worry not, Wayne's not breaking anyone out of prison."

True to Steve's word, Wayne came in, something bundled up in his arms. To anyone not paying any mind, especially in a hospital, it might appear to be a baby. But Eddie knew who it was and immediately smiled. Wayne closed the door and then let out a little whistle. The bundle heard the signal and began to move, poking their head out from the blanket wrap.

"Meatball!" Eddie reached his arms out to take the dog. Wayne handed them over and she licked all over his face, tail wagging excitedly.

"Meatball?", Steve's brow raised.

"Yeah, cause she looks like a lil meatball. And that's what I fed her when I first found her", Eddie beamed.

Steve shook his head. "She doesn't look like a meatball, she looks like-Lady?"

"From Lady and the Tramp? Yeah, she looks like that too", Eddie nodded, scratching her behind the ear.

"Lady?", Steve said again. And suddenly he had his own lap full of dog and her wet nose and tongue all over his face. "I can't believe-how long-Were you with Eddie this whole time?"

Lady let out a soft bark and then turned over in his lap for belly rubs.

"How do you know Meatball?", Eddie asked.

"Her name is Lady, and I've known her since she was a puppy", Steve explained while giving his best girl belly rubs. "My dad took her away, I never knew what happened to her."

"Eddie found her out in the woods", Wayne said. "Never seen a stray dog so polite. We could tell she'd been kept well, but she didn't have a collar."

Her being yours explains why she was such a little princess", Eddie teased.

"She's a proper lady, yes she is", Steve cooed.

"So, do we need to go to court for custody?", Eddie asked.

Steve put Lady onto Eddie's lap and petted the top of her head. "I'm sure we can come to an arrangement", Steve said. "We did with Dustin."

[thehypnone]

i would love to see your take on an age regression based headcanons or fic

Guppy

WC: 1,5K

Relationship: Little!Rain/Caregiver!Swiss

Tags: Age regression, they/them, eds Rain

Swiss realised the noise he heard was caused by Rain falling over. Now they sat against the wall with a pout, arms crossed over their chest. The multi ghoul already knew what kind of days it was for Rain, then.

Notes: This is not age play, nothing sexual here, age regression is a coping mechanism for Rain.

Read under the cut or on AO3.

Swiss was in the common room kitchen, making himself a cup of morning coffee, when he heard a thump coming from the corridor. He left his half filled mug to go check what was going on and his heart nearly shattered when Swiss realised the noise he heard was caused by Rain falling over. Now they sat against the wall with a pout, arms crossed over their chest. The multi ghoul already knew what kind of day it was for Rain, then.

“Hi, guppy,” Swiss came up to where the water ghoul was plopped on the floor, crouching in front of them. “What happened here, huh?”

“Fell,” they grumbled, “legs- uhm… don’t work.”

“Ah, it happens, yeah?” the multi ghoul scanned Rain’s long limbs, noticing both of their ankles were twisted. “Let’s get you up, kiddo, we’ve gotta take care of you.”

Rain nodded, their face still a bit pouty, as Swiss grabbed them by their armpits and hoisted the lanky ghoul up, taking on most of their weight as they giggled. Rain fell just outside their bedroom door, the multi ghoul presumed they woke up feeling small, for some reason, and their little sleep-addled brain apparently forgot to grab their crutches. 

Back in the room Swiss sat Rain down on their bed with a chirp, as he went to the water ghoul’s special wardrobe, dedicated to things they used only when little. He dug out bright purple forearm crutches adorned with tons of stickers, most fish themed, two blue ankle braces, ocean themed elastic bandages and a weird looking lump of straps. When the multi ghoul turned back to Rain he saw them waiting patiently with their favourite plushie - a big blue shark - clutched tightly to their chest.

“There’s your friend,” Swiss chuckled, sitting on the edge of the bed. “Okay, guppy, can you tell me if we’re going for braces today or will the bandages be enough?”

Asking that, the multi ghoul presented both options, giving the other a moment to consider, “I- I think… those,” they pointed at the hard braces, wiggling their outstretched legs a bit, “‘m wobbly.”

“Sure thing, kiddo, let’s put them on, yeah?” Rain nodded enthusiastically, mirroring Swiss’s grin as he took one of their wobbly, as they called it, legs into his lap, putting on a sock, making them let out a little giggle, “What’s so funny, hm?”

“T- tickles,” they laughed, hiding behind their hands.

“Does it now, huh?” Swiss teased, sliding a claw up the sole of Rain’s bare foot.

“Sw- swissy,” Rain snorted, squirming a bit, “Sto-oppp.”

The multi ghoul would continue, always eager to hear the other’s purest of laughs, but considering the state of their legs today, it wasn’t a good idea. Last thing he might've wanted was for Rain to make it worse by accident. Or risking their mindset switching and them ending up in panic because the tickles started making them actually uncomfortable. That's why Swiss just leaned down to place a kiss on the water ghoul’s shin, just under their knee, and got to putting the braces on.

It went quickly, Swiss tied both of them tightly for good support but loose enough for it to still be somewhat comfortable, checking in on Rain’s face as he did so.

“Alright, kiddo, all set,” he announced as he tucked the stray piece of lace into Rain’s sock. “Everything comfy, nothing scratchy or squeezing in the bad way?”

“Nuh-uh,” they shook their head, cheek nuzzled into their plushie as a quiet purr started bubbling in their chest.

“Okay, guppy, will you let me know if something’s wrong?” Swiss asked, despite knowing that any discomfort would immediately show itself on the water ghoul’s face. They nodded, melting further into their nest. “Now, I think it’s time for breakfast, yeah?”

Rain perked up at that, “Can we… uhm, cea… crea…”

“Cereal, guppy?”

“Yes!” the water ghoul clasped their hand together, a big grin on their face again.

“Sure thing, let’s go get you your cereal, then,” Swiss got up, extending both of his hands for Rain to take. They looked at them with a bit of reluctance, biting their bottom lip, and the multi ghoul realised his mistake in a moment, withdrawing one of his hands. Rain chirped, gripping the second one then as they let themself be moved to a standing position.

The reason for Rain not wanting to take both of Swiss’ hands was that they had to have one of their own free for their shark plushie, of course, nothing else. That would be a small issue, though, considering both of the water ghoul’s ankles were wobbly today, they needed both of their crutches. Fortunately, Swiss was experienced enough as little Rain’s caregiver that he had a trick for that.

“Here, guppy, take this one,” he pushed the right crutch into their hand. When he was sure Rain was stable enough, the multi ghoul turned to grab something resembling a weird harness from the bedside table. “You remember this cool thing?”

Rain cocked their head to the side, inspecting what Swiss held. Once they realised, they brought the shark close to their chest, losing a bit of balance, as they furrowed their brows.

Swiss smiled softly at how protective over their plushie Rain was, knowing he had to act carefully now, “Yeah, you do remember. Let’s get it on, huh?”

The water ghoul grumbled a little under their breath, but after a moment let Swiss wrap their shark in the dark blue pieces of fabric. Rain still held on to the toy’s tail, though, not daring to let go for even a second. When Swiss was done with the plushie, he pushed it against Rain’s chest holding it there and gently took their wrist, prompting them to let go of its tail now that there was another point of contact. Rain obliged, unclenching their fingers, and Swiss guided their hand into one of the loops, settling the strap over their shoulder. He then pulled away and gave Rain the other crutch “Okay, guppy, now, take this here, yeah.”

When Rain rested their weight on the left crutch, Swiss took back the right one for a moment, repeating the process of pulling their hand through the loops of straps, giving the aid back as he finished, “There we go, all ready for your cereal now.”

The multi ghoul smiled as he took in the image of Rain, now grinning too, proudly wearing their shark plushie in the Swiss-made carrier on their front, “Yeah… h- hungry.”

“No wonder, kiddo,” he ruffled their hair, making the ghoul giggle again, “Let’s go then.”

Swiss splayed his hand over Rain’s lower back, subtly supporting them just in case. Rain was really good with their mobility aids both on a daily basis and when regressed, but little Rain got clumsier than usual, prone to losing balance or tripping over their own feet. The multi ghoul would lie if he said he didn’t find them adorable, sometimes bringing back the old fan nickname - ‘bambi’.

The way to the common room was positively uneventful, though, and soon Rain was sat at the table, chin rested over the top of their plushie’s head, patiently waiting for their Swissy to bring them breakfast. The multi ghoul came back from the kitchen with a mug of coffee and a blue plastic bowl with a coral reef printed on its outside. He put it down in front of Rain, digging up a spoon with a plastic handle, matching the bowl, favourite set of the ghoul when small. The only acceptable, really.

The water ghoul grabbed the spoon, holding it in a way Swiss couldn’t mirror no matter how hard he tried. He was always surprised with how Rain managed to hold it and not spill milk everywhere. They got to devouring the cereal, Swiss sitting down to finally sip on his coffee that got abandoned earlier by accident. The multi ghoul observed Rain as they munched on the honey hoops, a happy trill escaping them from time to time, until they grabbed the bowl in two hands and drank down the leftover milk.

“All done?” Rain nodded as Swiss wiped a few drops of milk from their small moustache with his thumb. “Is there anything you want to do today, kiddo?”

“Hmmm…” they sighed, brows furrowing in thought, “‘m bit tired…”

“Didn’t sleep well, huh?” Rain shook their head. “I propose cuddles, then.”

The water ghoul chirped with a smile, already scrambling to get up from the table and get to the couch, “Hey, slowly, guppy. There’s no rush, we’ve got all day.”

“Sorry,” they mumbled, settling back down.

“None of that, it’s okay,” Swiss assured, petting between their horns. “Here, let me help.”

The multi ghoul moved back the chair Rain was sitting on, handing them their crutches again. He guided them to the couch, taking the aids away once they sat down. Swiss himself leaned against the back of it, arms open. Rain took the invitation, curling up on Swiss’ lap with their legs thrown over the armrest, their plushie now squeezed between the ghouls’ chests.

“There we go, kiddo,” Swiss cooed, wrapping his arms around the already purring ghoul, “we can both make good use of some more rest, yeah?”

The multi ghoul thought he may have heard something that was supposed to be a response, but when he looked down, Rain was already half dozed off. And, well, who was Swiss to stop his guppy from sleeping comfortably in his arms?

[blainesebastian]

no regrets

ship: austin butler x female reader rating: PG word count: 2,145 summary: basically this is all bri's fault. "you need to do something with this...you meet him at a yoga class" definitely inspired by long-haired austin warnings: none notes: this was lowkey and fun :) appreciate you bri, as always. i know zero percent about yoga, literally googled 'simple yoga poses' and went from there--so the description of getting into said poses might be inaccurate. taglist: @stylespresleyhearted, @austinbutlermischief, @killerqueenfan

You have no idea how you allowed yourself to be talked into a yoga class.

And here’s the thing—it wasn’t by a friend or co-worker, not family or seeing an advertisement somewhere with a good deal, you’re the one who convinced yourself it was a good idea. Just wanted to try something new, not exactly interested in working out or toning your body, nothing like that—but just to gain a different experience, see what all the hype was about. You at least did enough research not to end up in a hot yoga class, jesus, you’d definitely expire in one of those.

Stretches and calming breathing though? How bad could it be?

Apparently bad when your limbs don’t know how to do simple poses…like you’re pretty sure your elbows and knees didn’t get the memo about directions they’re supposed to go.

…really mastered the Corpse Pose though.

You let out a long breath that flutters your hair as you sit up, a bit of sweat sticking to your skin as you take a look around at some other people in the class that seem to have easily adapted to the routine. The guy in front of you is definitely smirking as he wraps up his mat, looking like he’s entertaining the thought of saying something. You narrow your eyes, pulling your hair free from the braid to get it out of your face by doing a high bun.

“First time?” He asks as you get up and…did your bones just make a low cracking noise in protest?

Picking up your mat, you get a better look at him and…well, not that he was difficult to notice while the class was going on. He was positioned right in front of you, long lines, muscular tone, long blonde hair tied up in a loose bun. There’s a pretty flush to his cheeks now from the workout, his cupid-bow lips full and pink.

Not that you’re staring or anything.

“Oh no, I come all the time—I adapted the Corpse Pose into something called the ‘dead fish’, couldn’t you tell?” You smile a little, uncapping some water to take a few large sips.

He tosses his bag over his shoulder and both of you slowly follow the crowd out of the yoga room, “I was hopin’ the instructors would notice that and implement it into the usual line up.”

You smirk, your stomach doing a swirled flip at the teasing in his voice. He’s attractive, really no denying that, “Not sure I’m coming back for another round, I can’t feel the bottom of my spine.”

Laughing lightly, he pulls the elastic from his hair and…clearly he didn’t do a ton of sweating during the workout, soft blonde waves fall to his shoulders. He runs his hand through them, reaching into his bag for his water.

“It gets better the more you do it,” He says, breaking your concentration. You blink, refocusing on him talking instead of his hair, “You’d probably benefit from a Plank or Baby Cobra.”

You blink, “You’re just saying words, I have no idea what that means.”

He grins, glancing towards the exit before turning his head back to look at you. There’s a definite moment where his eyes trace you up and down, making that flurry of butterflies in your stomach explode outward.

“Well if you come back, I’ll show you.”

Is this man seriously flirting with you at a yoga class? Though, to be honest, it’s almost refreshing. You’ve kind of sworn off dating because places like bars notoriously have terrible guys approaching you with overused lines and unable to handle words like ‘no, thanks’. So…what’s the harm in coming back at least one more time for a cute guy that obviously knows how to stretch?

“Are you asking me on a date to a yoga class?” You throw out there, raising your eyebrows. You’ve always been one that’s forward—why waste time?

He picks up on it easily, doesn’t seem to be the type that backs down either. “Figured it wouldn’t hurt to try out.”

You smile a little and nod slowly, “Alright, one more class—I think that’s all my body can take.” You reach out your hand to shake his, “Y/N.”

“Austin,” He replies, “Don’t worry—I’ll go easy on you.”

He winks before heading out the door. What’s the worst that could happen? You pull a muscle? Least you’ll be seeing him in those workout pants again…and honestly? Seems like an even trade.

--

Hot-Yoga-Guy (Austin—which, you know his name, you should really start calling him by it) wants to meet up for smoothies before the next yoga class. Despite the fact that you kinda find smoothies texturally weird, how can you deny saying yes when he asks? Besides, the dude totally seems like the type that lives in smoothie bars—probably has a recommendation of fruit combinations at the ready.

Except, when you show up you expect him to be in his gym attire since that’s the only thing you’ve seen him in. Fits the whole hot-yoga-guy-who-drinks-smoothies archetype, and yet—

He’s wearing dark blue jeans, a white button-down shirt, black leather jacket and booties. That beautiful blonde hair of his is flowing over his shoulders and…jesus, you didn’t remember how attractive he was. You’re kinda just staring at him from the doorway until someone comes in after you and practically knocks you over attempting to get in line to order. Whoops.

He turns a little and smiles when he notices you’ve walked in, motioning you over to a small table by the window he’s snagged. Carrying your gym bag with your change of clothes for yoga (and two bottles of water, you learned from the last time that hydration is not overrated), you set it down on the floor and plop into the chair across from him.

“Hi,” You breathe out, “So I gotta admit, never really done the whole smoothie thing before—much more of a froyo girl.”

“First the yoga and now this,” Austin teases, “Feel like you really need a hands-on guide.”

“Well as long as you’re offering.” You grin—definitely okay with his hands on…anything.

You get to know one another over your smoothies (curated by Austin because there’s almost too much to choose from. Strawberry-banana isn’t too bad, or maybe you’re just distracted by the ocean-blue eyes in front of you, up for debate). You learn that Austin’s interested in becoming a serious actor, a mark that he wants to grow into and leave behind, something that hasn’t quite happened yet but you’re sure will at some point. He’s charismatic and personable—what’s not to like on a big screen? You share about your passions too—that you teach first grade history but what you’d really like to do some day is write a book, it’s all mapped out in your head…you’ve just never been brave enough to type it out.

“Too afraid it’ll somehow fail, I guess.” You admit, throwing away your empty smoothie cup.

Austin holds the door open for you, both making your way outside. The yoga studio is just around the block,

“Yeah, I get that,” He curls some of his hair behind his ear, “Problem with that is, you’ll never know if you don’t try it out.”

You hum lightly, “You’re makin’ too much sense.”

He smiles a little, “Let’s just say I’ve had the same talk with myself a few times, got it memorized by now.”

And maybe it’s that easy? Putting yourself out there, seeing what happens. Austin’s got a point—if you don’t try and write a novel, or put your thoughts on paper, it’s only ever going to be a ‘what if’. That’s not something you constantly want to live with like a black cloud hanging over your head.

When you get home that night, you begin organizing your thoughts on different colored post its, categorizing your ideas. It’s the most inspired you’ve felt in a long time.

--

Two yoga classes turn into four, which turn into six and…even by the eighth class? You’re not getting any better at this whole balance and stretching stuff. Though to do be honest, it’s not like you don’t know you’re there for pretty much one thing—and it’s not strengthening your core.

You’ve decided, very adult-like, that you hate the instructor and the sound of her voice when she tries to get you the Low Lunge Pose and…how do people even stretch their legs straight out like that?

“I think I pulled something in my back,” You pout, flat on your yoga mat after most people have packed up and left. Austin is rolling his own mat up, a chuckle rumbling in his chest at your predicament.

You want to glare at him but as your eyes find him, kinda hard to feel anything but pure attraction. His blonde hair is up in a messy bun, the muscles in his arms on display thanks to the shirt he’s wearing, and his skin is kissed with a light sheen of sweat. Unfair, really.

“You know—most people get better with practice,” He teases, setting his bag down and sitting himself next to you.

Luckily it doesn’t seem like another class is coming in to see you pathetically stretched out on your mat, slowly dying.

“I really think yoga isn’t for me,” You laugh lightly, sitting up. Ouch.

“Then why’d you keep comin’?”

Turning your head, you raise your eyebrows at Austin, “Oh come on, it’s not obvious?”

He smiles a little, nodding as he looks down at the mat. “Your back isn’t straight enough with the Low Lunge, that’s why you can’t get your leg up.”

Your eyebrows lift slightly, “You checkin’ me out?”

Austin grins, “I’m checkin’ out the terrible yoga pose, yeah.”

You snicker a little, putting yourself on your knees before letting out a dramatic breath, “Well—c’mon coach, help me out here.”

He offers you a hand to get you off the floor and then…those hands move your hips to position you onto the mat. You can feel the heat of his skin through your leggings and the sound of a roaring ocean fills your ears for a moment. Shaking your head, you push a random strand of hair out of your face before you concentrate on what he’s saying.

“Okay, so feet first—” He lines you up and encourages you to bend forward, “Hands flat on the mat…” Austin is patient as you haphazardly follow the instructions, “Okay, now straighten your back…”

You let out a long sigh, remembering to breathe. The first time you did this whole yoga thing you were holding your breath and nearly passed out. Good times.

His hand curves around the front of your leg, the one you’re going to lift and…are you really expected to concentrate when you can feel his fingers on your thigh? A shiver slithers down your spine, creating goosebumps on your arms. God, you’re feeling lightheaded—are you still breathing through the pose? You blink a few times and lift your leg, Austin helping you straighten it.

“Okay, good, now hold for thirty seconds.”

Thirty seconds? There’s a slight groan that leaves your lips, especially when Austin asks if you ‘feel the difference?’ in the pose you’re in compared to the one you attempted to do during class. You definitely feel that lower spot in your spine spasm, that’s for sure. When Austin moves to stand beside you and you’re able to keep still for about fifteen seconds before you start tipping.

There’s not even time to warn him, a soft squeak leaving your lips as you faulter, falling over and right into him. Both of you end up on the floor with a solid thunk! and a few giggles escape your lips.

“Sorry.”

Austin huffs lightly but he’s smiling, sprawled out on the floor on his back with you against his chest…least he was soft to land on. “Alright, so maybe yoga isn’t for you.” He agrees with a soft laugh.

You tip your head back a little, resting it on his shoulder before turning to look at him, “I mean, I don’t have any regrets.”

Austin licks his lips, arguably on purpose, and your gaze shifts down to his mouth. Your noses bump together in a soft bunny kiss before you close the distance, warmth bursting in your stomach and fluttering outward in your body. There’s heat in your veins that is not left behind from the workout, one of your hands moving to thread through his long hair.

The kiss ends naturally and you can’t help but smile, “Think that’s the best pose I’ve practiced in here.”

Austin smirks, brushing his lips against yours, “I call that the Multiple Kiss Pose.” Corny.

A laugh leaves your lips as he kisses you again—definitely no regrets.

[yuurivoice]

Alot of big creators having deep lore in thier stories is making your fans over analyze everything and you're just like "nah thats not important" "not that deep" "anything outside of the story isn't important its just for fun" lol

A little bit, I think. There's plenty of things that are fairly deep and lore relevant, and theorizing on that front is good and fun. There's just a clear distinction in what is and is not like that in my work, and some folks who like the more loosely tied together things like Lucien for example, would love it if it was deeper.

But I'm not gonna squeak out a fart if I ain't ready to toot, because that's how you end up shitting your britches, ya feel me?

(Jackie Commentary: "The real Tortured Poets Department...")

I think it's partly a symptom of the long wait between big narrative installments like BitterSweet and Auron's stuff, because people want to dig and that's a good thing, but there hasn't been a ton of new stuff to dig into for a while. Or they want to dig elsewhere and then when they come to me with questions I'm just like...idk man I don't even remember what you're referencing because I wrote it at 3am during a manic episode and forced myself to record it when I could hardly function. lol

I'm not that clever or deep, I don't present myself like some super talented writer who has a whole conspiracy board of lore mapped out in my office. I'm a fucking mess of a man who has failed upwards and thankfully people enjoy what I create, when I'm able to create it, and the rest is smut.

We also have a bit of an issue with people who only halfway know what they're talking about speaking like they 100% know what's going on and they're only half right and don't even know why. Like referring to all listeners as "Dreamers" only somewhat right, or thinking that only some characters are "Dreamers" is also not right.

And it's actually spelled out pretty clearly what Dreamers are if you know where to look, but I'm not just going to state it plainly in a random Tumblr post because I have plans on how it'll be addressed in the content itself.

So basically, with a lot of what I'm working on I'm also trying to make shit as clear as I can, tidying up the knowledge and lore for people while also creating some new questions to ponder that at least put people back on the right track.

There are also a lot of folks who have things pretty figured out, but they're...just chilling, I think. LOL

Ultimately, having people really curious and creative about things to the point of theory crafting and going deep is a good thing. I just...don't always have satisfying explanations or answers to some things because I'm not so deeply involved with my characters or some of their less intricate stories that I can just...unload a bunch of random trivia about them.

The speculative part of being a fan of character or story is the fun part, and I worry that having such direct access to me actually fucks that up to an extent. And because of the intimate nature of the content, people get really really really invested in these characters on levels that I don't typically go to. Seth and Alphonse, maybe Auron, are exceptions because they're very personal to me. But otherwise? That doesn't happen very often.

Anywho, we're probably at another juncture where I have to decide if it's healthier for me to take a few steps back and be less involved on this side of things for a while. It can get really exhausting and it doesn't have to be, but for me and for the fandom, probably.

[btsficsandsuch]

Okay love how An Ungodly Dream started!!!

Thank you for taking my request into consideration, I love it, of course I would like a little more angsty part, you can take as much time as you like, I'm in no hurry and neither should you💜💜

Here’s part 2! This one gets pretty angsty. Warning: Mentions of demons/demon activity, Death, Also gets suggestive. PART 1 HERE

An Ungodly Dream

Even if you had 1,000 chances to guess how you’d be spending a Thursday night you never would’ve guessed sitting in your living room talking to a demon but here you are. “Soooo Yoongi, were you born a demon or how did this happen?”, you asked unsure if that was even okay to ask but you weren’t sure about boundaries when it came to demons. He chuckled, “It’s kind of a long story but no I wasn’t born a demon. I actually signed a contract with this guy and in exchange for him doing something for me I agreed to become one his servants.” You nodded unsure of what your next question should be.

Yoongi could tell that you had a lot more on your mind. He began, “Look Y/N there’s a lot about this you’ll never understand but I’ll try to make it as simple as I can. About six years ago I was really in love with this girl. She was my everything. One day she passed out at home and after they ran some tests in the emergency room they told us she had incurable brain cancer and was given three months to live. I was devastated and I knew I’d do anything to not loose her.” He ran his hands over his face and sighed. This story was clearly hard for him to tell but he continued anyways, “One night shortly after that, I went to a bar to try and drink away the pain. While there I met a man who told me his name was Jin. He said he could take away any pain in the world in exchange for something small. He had my attention so I followed him to a back room. He pulled out a piece of paper that I didn’t really understand but at the time I didn’t really care. He basically said he would heal my girlfriend so that she’d be cancer free and all I had to do was agree to work for him. In my drunken grieving state I didn’t even ask any questions, not even how he knew about the cancer when I never even told him that. I signed the paper and before I could say anything else he was gone. Well a week goes by and I assume it must’ve just been a drunken dream because nothing has happened. Then we go to my girlfriends appointment and there are like nine doctors from all over the world. One of them pulls up her brain scan from the day before and tells us how the cancer is completely gone. They’ve never seen anything like it before and it’s a medical miracle that she was cancer free. I was ecstatic. The love of my life was healed and no longer weeks from death. I didn’t even think about the contract that I signed. So a couple weeks go by and I come home from work and hear a strange sound coming from the bedroom. I gently pushed opened the door and saw my girlfriend in bed with another guy. When I confronted them she told me that she had a new lease on life or some bullshit like that and didn’t want to be tied down to one person any more. So I packed a bag and went back to the bar to drink away the heartbreak. That’s when I felt a tap on my shoulder and saw Jin standing there. He told me how he had held up his end of the contract and now it was my turn. So I’ve spent the last six years doing his bidding all for a girl who in the end didn’t even love me and I have no way out of it.”

You were speechless. Yoongi’s eyes didn’t move from the the coffee cup on the table in front of him. After some time you reached out and grabbed his hand, “I’m really sorry that happened to you Yoongi. I really am.” He gave you a small smile. “Any other questions?”, he asked trying to change the subject. “Um yeah a ton but I don’t even really know where to begin. What kind of things do you normally do for this Jin guy? Is there anyway for you to break the contract? Maybe a lawyer or something?” Yoongi chuckled at that, “Do you really think there are lawyers that specialize in demon contracts? No there’s no way out. Either fulfill the contract or cease to exist basically. As far as what I do. I do a little bit of everything. I’m a master of all trades.” There was that cockiness again that you hated but also kind of found attractive. He continued, “It depends on why I was summoned or what Jin had planned for me. Sometimes I’ll make deals with people and have them sign contracts to lure them in. Sometimes I’ll be an incubus if that’s what is requested of me.” You cleared your throat unsure if you want to ask your next question or if you’re just scared of the answer. You forgot that he can read minds but he answers before you can even ask. “I only physically hurt people if I’m commanded to by Jin. He’s like my boss. It’s rare for that to happen though. He mostly only cares about getting people to sign away their lives. The more contracts he has the more powerful he is.”

You nodded in acceptance of his answer feeling a little better. You had so many more questions but decided that it was late and he had opened up enough for the night. “So do you sleep or how does this work?”, you asked unsure of yourself. Yoongi smiled, “I can sleep. I don’t have to but sometimes it’s nice to just relax and pretend to be fully human again.” You awkwardly chuckled being reminded that this beautiful man in front of you was not actually human any more. “Go to sleep Y/N. I’ll be alright out here. We still have a lot to discuss tomorrow.”, he smiled over at you. You nodded and began walking back to your bedroom before turning around, “Goodnight Yoongi.” He smiled back at you, “Goodnight Y/N.”

Somehow you managed to fall asleep for a few hours before your alarm went off signaling you it was time to get ready for work. You quickly showered and changed eager to find out what your new demon roommate was up to. You weren’t expecting to walk into the kitchen and find a large breakfast prepared for you including pancakes, blueberry muffins, an omelette, and fresh squeezed orange juice and hot coffee. “Morning sleepyhead”, Yoongi smiled before handing you a mug. “I didn’t know you could cook.”, you said happily taking some coffee. “I used to be human or did you forget already.”, he laughed. You rolled your eyes, “No I didn’t forget. I just didn’t ever expect demons to be this nice. You know, usually they’re more demon-ish.” Yoongi smirked as he sat down next to you taking a bite of a muffin. “Not all demons are like that. Of course there are ‘bad’ demons but a lot of them are like me. We’re just trying to survive after making the choices that we did.”, he said taking a sip of juice. You nodded and silently ate your breakfast.

Yoongi told you to leave the dishes as he’d do them later since he had nothing else to do. You reluctantly agreed before grabbing your purse. “When I get back from work we can talk some more.”, you told him. He nodded before walking you to the door. “Oh and there might be some chicken in the fridge. You know in case you wanted to whip up something for dinner later.”, you said and he chuckled taking your hint. “Yes Dear. Anything else?”, he asked. You shook your head before saying a quick goodbye and closing the door behind you.

The day went by surprisingly quick. It probably had to do with the fact that you couldn’t wait to get home to see Yoongi. Somehow you found yourself actually kind of missing him. So once 5:00pm hit you found yourself rushing home quickly kicking off your shoes by the door and walking into the kitchen greeting Yoongi who was hard at work putting the finishing touches on dinner. “I hope you like it. It’s been a while since I cooked like this.”, he said shyly. “It looks amazing plus anything is better than what I would’ve been able to make.”, you chuckled. Taking a bite of the food you smiled. “It’s so good Yoongi. You’d really make a good husband one day.”, you said not noticing his shoulders drop at the compliment. The two of you ate in silence and then you washed the dishes with Yoongi’s help because he insisted. After you changed into some comfy clothes you met Yoongi who was already sitting on the couch mindlessly watching something on the tv. When he saw you walk in he shut it off, “I’m guessing you want to talk about some things.”

You nodded, “Yeah we probably should.” There was a long silence until you spoke, “How do I release you back since I summoned you on accident?” He bit his lip, “Well there are three ways to do that. The first being that I complete a task for you, it would be the reason you summoned me to begin with. The second is to have you sign a contract and you basically become one of us. The third is we have to wait for the next full moon and on that day we would follow the guidelines in that book you were reading. Looking at our options we’ll probably have to go with the third one.” You fidgeted with the hem of your shirt, “I mean we could look at the other options. I know I didn’t intend to summon you but my boss has been a real jerk lately so maybe I can have you go mess with him a little. You know slam some doors. Open all of his kitchen cabinets in the middle of the night.” He laughed, “Y/N I’m a demon. Not a poltergeist. You’ve said it yourself that you didn’t mean to summon me. And there’s no way I’m letting you sign any contract so our only option is number three.”

Nodding in agreement you got up and retrieved the book from your room turning to the chapter on demons. Yoongi helped you flip through the pages before finding what he was looking for, “There that’s it.” You began reading through the pages wanting to laugh at the ridiculousness of it all but at this point nothing shocks you anymore. You checked your phone, “Okay the next full moon is in three weeks.”, you said. “Okay then I guess we’re gonna get to know each other.”, Yoongi smiled. You wanted to say something sarcastic but deep down you felt your heart flutter at the thought.

The two of you spent the following week acting like an old married couple. You’d bicker about minor things only to return back to normal shortly after. He cooked you breakfast and dinner every day and even packed your lunch a couple days. The two of you ended up cuddling on the couch one night after falling asleep leading to you both waking up feeling awkward and confused.

Thankfully it was the weekend so you were able to get to spend more time with each other. It was Saturday evening and the two of you had decided to go out to dinner. Admittedly you maybe put a little more effort into your outfit than you needed to but it was worth it when you walked out and saw Yoongi checking you out. “You look very nice this evening.”, he said offering you his arm to hold onto. “Thank you. You clean up nice yourself.”, you responded. Since the weather was so nice and the restaurant wasn’t too far the two of you decided to walk. As you passed a group of guys standing against a wall Yoongi protectively put himself between you and the men while keeping his arm left arm around your waist. Just as you walked by them Yoongi suddenly stopped and whipped his head around to glare at one of the men wearing a blue baseball cap. “Weren’t you ever taught to respect women asshole? She’s not a toy for you to use as you please.”, he spat. Yoongi grabbed your hand and quickly pulled you away from the men before you could even question him but you assumed the guy had thought something provocatively about you and Yoongi heard his thoughts. You felt a smile creep up at the thought that he felt the need to defend you like that.

Dinner was one of the best nights you’d ever had. Yoongi had lots of stories about things he had done and seen. You listened very closely taking it all in. After dinner the two of you made your way back to your apartment and once inside you let your feelings overtake your brain. The alcohol from dinner probably didn’t help but you instinctively wrapped your hands around Yoongi’s neck pulling him closer to you and placing a kiss on his lips. You waited to see if he’d push you away. When he didn’t you pulled him in again and deepened the kiss. Then you moved to his dress shirt and you started unbuttoning it one by one as Yoongi removed the sweater you were wearing over your strapless dress.

The two of you made your way to your bedroom where Yoongi pushed you down onto your bed before going in for another kiss. The kisses went back and forth moving from your lips to various parts of your body. In-between kisses you managed a whispered, “Yoongi.” Not stopping he mumbled something which you took him as acknowledging you. You placed another kiss to his lips before speaking, “I think I’m falling in love with you.”

You weren’t sure what you expected. Hopefully for him reciprocate the feelings. At the worst just ignore you and pretend he didn’t hear you. What you didn’t expect was for him to jump back like something had just bit him. “Yoongi what’s wrong? Did I hurt you?”, you asked concerned. “We can’t do this Y/N. There can’t be anything between us. We’re not the same and I’m not going to risk you being dragged down with me.”, he said quickly buttoning back up his shirt. “Yoongi I don’t understand. Everything has been so good between us. We can figure something out.”, you said reaching for him. He shook his head taking a step back from you, “No Y/N. It’s not like a long distance relationship or something. This is serious. There are things you just don’t understand. I ruined my life and I have to pay that price. I won’t let that also hurt you.” “Yoongi please. Help me understand. I’ll do what it takes to be with you.”, you cried. You watched at Yoongi opened your bedroom door. He turned around to look at you, “No Y/N. I won’t let you do that. I’m gonna stay in the spare room until the full moon is here and we can follow the protocol to release me. Just stay away from me until then. It’s for your own good.”

With that he walked out and shut the door behind him. You heard the faint click of the door to the spare room shut next to you. Sitting on the bed you began to sob into your pillow. You knew he was right. He was a demon after all and you seemed to forget that little detail. But even after you reminded yourself of that you still couldn’t help but feel your heart breaking at the fact that the man you loved was in the room next to yours but you were never going to be able to have him. Unless maybe you signed a contract of your own…

[aphroditestempleimagines]

The Obsidianite Jewel

A fem!reader x Chevalier Michel Fanfiction

Chapter 12 -> Chapters Masterlist

Words: a fuck ton this time

Warnings: graphicness, war, wounds, death, language etc

Summary: It all started when your fiancé, Prince Gilbert, brought you to the palace of Rhodolite. He hoped he would find the secrets of the princes. Instead, he lost your heart to the brutal beast. However, Gilbert is not going to let your heart wander away easily

"They say they found Eyepatch", Nokto ran to Chevalier's tent early the next day.

The tiger who was used to not leaving its bed until the sun was high up in the sky, rose from its sleep immediately. Grabbing the sword from under his pillow he wasted no time, putting a mere pair of trousers over his dress shirt before rushing to where they kept the captives. Nokto ran behind him. He called his name once or twice, but Chevalier ignored him. It did not matter what else he had to say. Nothing would avert the inevitable clash, the sole possible resolution in this bloody conflict.

There was commotion up ahead. Chevalier could hear the clanging of swords as he quickened his step. He turned around the corner to see her, y/n, holding a longsword with both of her hands and pointing it at his knights. Her hair was a mess and still damp, as were her clothes. Her skirt was ripped over one leg to allow movement. One of her wrists was still tied with the remains of a rope. She heaved as she stood guard in front of an unconscious Gilbert.

Her eyes met his. Relief washed over them for a moment before the defensive gleam returned to them. She took a step back, sword raised towards him, her eyes trembling. But there was something in them that Chevalier knew that they would not waver if he challenged them, even if the heart behind them broke in the process. He glanced at the ground behind her. Gilbert was breathing unevenly, his ebony hair stuck on his face, his eyepatch gone.

"Leave", he ordered. There was a moment of silence, but he merely had to look at his knights for them to realise he had directed the order to them. They swiftly obeyed, the ones that were not injured helping those that were. "You too", Chevalier said to Nokto without taking his eyes away from Gilbert and y/n.

"What are you going to do?", his brother simply asked. Chevalier gave him no answer. His piercing gaze turned on him, warning him not to press the matter further. Nokto looked at y/n. He sighed. "Don't be yourself for once", he murmured before he left the three of them alone.

Y/n lowered her sword, but her grip was still tight, ready to strike. The cluttering of armour died out as Nokto and the soldiers disappeared into the depths of the camp. Only the light rustling of the river beside them broke the silence between them. Chevalier could already guess how she had come to be here. Gilbert must have dragged her along, making himself to be the saint. Sick minds enjoy finding excuses for their actions. Chevalier recognised himself for the monster that he was. One would think he was ill of the exact opposite nature, denying his humanity when an expression of it was right in front of his nose.

She was so beautiful, he thought to himself. He had never been able to appreciate beauty as much before, focusing on a thing's or a person's practicality. Yet as she stood there, hair and clothes out of place, eyes ablaze with determination, she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. The only woman he could appreciate in such a meaningless way.

He fiddled with his belt until it was loose. Y/n grabbed the sword tighter. can't be put into words how much that small gesture hurt him even if he never blamed her for it. he took out his sword scabbard and threw it away into the buses next to her, where she could see it but he could not reach it.

"Why did you do that?", she asked.

"You answer me first", said Chevalier, "How did you end up like this?"

She gritted her teeth. "Don't go there", she said.

"So the fault lies with him indeed", Chevalier connected the dots, "Then why are you protecting him?"

His voice remained unexpressionate, but the human inside him threatened to intervene the more words came out of his mouth.

"Because you want to kill him", she whispered. Her gaze was lowered, apologetic.

"That would be the wisest course of action", he replied, "You can't argue about the effectiveness of the method"

"I won't allow it"

She was a princess in her own right. She had no obligation to be allied or loyal to Rhodolite. But still, if she allied herself with Gilbert, even out of necessity, Chevalier would have no choice but to...

He clenched his fists. He scoffed and mocked his own foolishness in front of her confused eyes. He could not do that. He could never do that. He could never do anything to hurt her, not any more. How utterly pathetic.

"Think reasonably", he said, "You're skilled with the blade. But you're in a camp full of knights. It is unthinkable to want to fight"

"I don't care"

That scolding determination that he had found so beautiful at the beginning was now burning him from the inside out. "I won't keep you", Chevalier began, "I won't hold you as a prisoner nor will I have you do anything against your will". He took a big breath. His eyes were glaciers as he stared at her. "But if you want to take him away alive", he said, "you will have to kill me".

Her hand trembled. Her eyes watered. His heart ached for uttering those words, but he was so happy that she was at least hesitating. Truthfully, to fall from her sword would be one of the best ways to go. His heart would long for her blade if he indeed had to go against her. The human inside him feared the monster he concealed, who would put duty over anything else. But that man was real, and Chevalier cursed him as he watched her raise her blade.

She stayed like that for a few moments. Then she let it fall to the ground, hands covering her face. Chevalier let out a heavy breath. He could not kill Gilbert. It would not be beneficial to do so anyway, since they fished him alive. But, most importantly, he could not become the monster she claimed he was not. As long as she believed he was more than just a pawn of his own duty, then he could believe in it as well. His dreary days were filled with the hope of humanity, something he thought he had lost even before his mother passed away.

He took a step toward her and extended his hand. "We can find a way", he said, "We can end this war without..."

His eyes fell upon the ground next to her feet, or rather what was not there anymore. But it was too late. He felt his own blade pierce him from behind. Gilbert breathed heavily over his shoulder. He had been so preoccupied that he let his guard down. Y/n raised her head. A terrified expression was painted over her face. A lone tear fell from Chevalier's eye. To the person who had never cried before it was as much as the waterful that poured from y/n eyes. She cried his name. Gilbert thrust the sword to its hilt onto the second prince's torso. Chevalier fell to his knees. Gilbert followed him. The black tiger coughed uncontrollably, spraying more red on the white tiger's already bloodied white shirt.

"I hate you", Gilbert laughed between coughs on Chevalier's shoulder, "I truly fucking hate you"

Y/n dropped in front of him. She tore her skirt and wrapped the fabric around the sword, closing Chevalier's wound as best she could. She was murmuring something about a physician. He would need one to remove the sword correctly. Her hands clutched his cheeks. Their warmth was the only thing keeping him away from Orpheus' realm. Gilbert had missed his vital spots, which meant that if he could stop the bleeding he would probably be fine. But she still cried as if he was dying.

"I knew it", Gilbert said, "I fucking knew it"

He flopped onto the ground on his back, laughing as he coughed more blood. The rustling of people filled the air. Nokto had heard something from the commotion between them and ran back with a group of knights. They restrained Gilbert, even though he did not put up a fight. Nokto called for the palace doctor, who accompanied Chevalier's troop. He stood mortified as his brother was treated, likely never having expected Chevalier to be in this position in the first place. The rest was a haze. Chevalier felt y/n hands comb down his hair as the doctor pulled out the sword. He was not about to show any discomfort or pain in front of his soldier, but he still clutched y/n's skirt. He could feel her tears wet his cheek as she brushed his hair. Nokto had taken Gilbert and the rest of the knights away.

"Don't stand, your Majesty", the doctor said, "it will"

"Increase the blood loss", Chevalier completed, "I know".

"Your Highness could you please remove his shirt?", the doctor was sterilizing the bandages in the pot of hot water he had carried with him.

Y/n's hands trembled as they undid Chevalier's buttons. Chevalier brought his hands to undo them himself, but he only managed to fiddle among them. He could not see well, and his head was starting to get dizzy. His inability seemed to motivate y/n and she managed to undo the rest of the buttons herself.

The doctor was quick to patch him up. Y/n pressed the gauze the doctor gave her onto the wound on his front as the former was wrapping the bandage around Chevalier's torso. A couple of soldiers carried a stretcher. Y/n's hands slipped from his as he was carried back to camp. His eyes caught Clavis before he was brought into his tent. For someone who tried to kill him every year and plotted with the man who had stabbed him, he certainly seemed very concerned. "How foolish", Chevalier thought, "He could at least make up his mind". And that was when sleep finally overpowered him.

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

When Chevalier opened his eyes again he was laying inside his tent. Y/n was sleeping, head resting on her arms as she knelt next to his bed. She looked very peaceful, but her eyes were too red. He reached out to her. He stopped his hand right before it touched her cheek. He recalled the warm memory of her hands clinging to him. But now that peace was restored after the event, reason would have returned.

After months she was just inches away. He wanted to stretch his hand a little further and brush his hands upon her skin, yet that small distance that separated them seemed the hardest to leap over. Whatever they were to each other, no matter whatever feelings he had begun to harbour for her, they were more than just people. They were political figures, bound by the responsibilities of royalty. Her engagement to Gilbert was what kept her country safe, much like his potential marriage to a noble lady would be arranged to serve a similar purpose. Even if he gave in and asked her to give everything up and be with him she would not. No. He would never put her in the position to make such a dreadful choice.

He opened his eyes widely. Gilbert was their prisoner now, it came back to him. He sat up. The stirring woke y/n. She took a few seconds trying to open her tired eyes but eventually, they focused on him.

"What are you doing?", she put her hand on his chest, lightly pressing him back down, "You need rest"

"I'm fine", said Chevalier, "I have work to do"

She caught his hand. "Are you insane?", she said, "You nearly bled to-"

He cupped her cheek and brought his lips to her forehead. She caught her breath as he placed a single kiss. He brushed his thumb on her flushed skin. She wanted him almost as much; How in the world had he convinced himself otherwise? She'd be free soon enough. Free to choose her own life without the Obsidian threat defining it. Free to be with him, if she would have him, or free to make her own path in her country by herself. Whatever the case might be, he would make sure she would be given the choice.

"I won't exert myself", he said, "I know my limits".

Her cheeks were red when he left her in the tent. It was a trivial thing, but that image occupied his thoughts for the rest of the day.

He took care of the batalions' positions first. If Gilbert washed out in the shores of their camp it meant that the people looking for him were not far behind. They moved to the mountains, in a fortress that was easily defended by their small force. As he passed by the kitchen he saw y/n mix some sort of potion. He frowned. She poured it onto the food that was intended for Gilbert, her eyes saddened. He did not stop her, neither did he stop the food as it passed him by. The smell of ginger was subtle, but there.

After he finished his work, he found himself outside the fortress' dungeons, where the Obsidinite prince was kept. He placed his hand where the sword had pierced him. With his head high, he entered the room.

Gilbert was crouched at the far back of the cell, in the furthest possible place from his tray of food. He did not seem to have touched it. The door cluttered closed behind Chevalier, and that was enough to catch Gilbert's attention.

"Haaah...", he chuckled, "Shame. You're still kicking"

"You missed my vitals", Chevalier replied coldly.

"Guess I did", Gilbert let his head fall back as smiled, "Foolish me"

He stopped as he fell into a frenzy of coughing. He covered his mouth with his dirty handkerchief. He must had done it too many times since he was brought there since he could not hide the red on the once-white piece of fabric any longer.

"You're sick", Chevalier said once Gilbert regained his breath, "You have been for a while now, haven't you?"

"Excellent observation", said Gilbert, "Full marks"

"It's acting up. Did you stop taking your medicine?"

Gilbert laughed. "And why do you care?", he said, "Did you want to keep me alive to watch as you took everything from me? Was screwing my fiancee not enough?"

Chevalier's gaze narrowed. The black tiger was not himself. Sometime between the moment he left Rhodolite and the day they captured him, he lost hold of the pillar that was keeping him from collapsing. And yet, he had not lost his touch when it came to words. His last sentence grated on Chevalier more than anything else.

"Rejoice", Gilbert said, "You were right. Emotion is the most disastrous thing there is for a royal, and love is the worst one of all"

That was what Chevalier had once claimed. Yet he could not do so anymore.

"You have everything", Gilbert said, "I lost. And the worst part is you don't understand the most important thing you took from me"

"No one can take anyone from someone", Chevalier said, "You either lost them or never had them in the first place"

Gilbert grabbed the small cup they had brought water for him in and threw it at the cage's iron bars. The sound echoed in the stone walls of the basement. "Do you think you've won?", Gilbert said, "My father will not stop even if it means letting me die"

"I do not doubt that", said Chevalier, "I'm sure he would if he were still alive"

Gilbert was left astonished. Then he suddenly burst out laughing, a laugh that turned once again into a cough. "How did you know?", he asked once it died out.

"You're not the only one who employs spies"

"I seriously need to do some cleaning up then", Gilbert smiled before he added his last words, "Your Majesty"

Chevalier frowned. The doctor had let it slip as he treated him.

"That poor little bunny", said Gilbert, "Did you scare her into crowning you king?"

"I am not concerned with matters as trivial as titles"

"No you're not", Gilbert said, "So what now? Now that you know who I am"

Chevalier held onto one of the cell's bars as he sat on his heels. "Now it's over. Obsidian has lost the war"

"Do you really expect me to believe you'll stop now?", Gilbert said, "You are determined to unite the kingdoms under your rule. Do you want me to believe you'll quit this dream entirely?"

"That was not a dream but a mere consequence of a plan to protect this continent from you"

"From my father", Gilbert sneered, "That's what this continent needed protecting from. My father, and afterwards from you."

"Mere conquest and exploitation was never my objective"

"Spare me, I know who you are", said Gilbert, "You're as much of a monster as I am. Different kind, maybe. But just as hideous". His eyes pierced Chevalier like daggers. The tears that fell could have burnt a forest down all by themselves. "But she's not", he said.

"Is that why you <<missed>>?"

"I kill you and I hurt her", Gilbert said, "But you see, if I don't kill you, eventually you will be the one who'll hurt her."

"Is that so?"

"Yes, that's exactly so", Gilbert sneered these words before continuing, "You don't change. You'll never change. And you'll never love her. You won't because you can't. I don't care what kind of strategic ploy you have in mind that concerns her, but that is enough"

"You're in no position to make threats"

"Then kill me", he said, "Go ahead. That's the only way to truly be rid of me. The only way to stay alive"

"I thought you didn't want to hurt y/n", said Chevalier, "But it seems you just want to die"

Gilbert laughed again. "Screw you", he said, "Do you really think me dying will hurt her? It will more likely be the solution to all of her problems, and yours"

"Can't argue with that either", Chevalier said. He pushed the tray of food further inside the cell. He nodded towards it, urging Gilbert to eat it.

"Ha, is that what this is?", said Gilbert, "You actually did come to kill me". He took a bit of the porridge that had been cold for way too long by now. He frowned as he passed it around in his mouth. "This is"

"Your medicine I'm guessing", said Chevalier, "I saw y/n lace your food. Poison or treatment, I would not had stopped her. She has a reason to use either and both"

Chevalier got back on his feet. "Why did you tell me this?", Gilbert stopped him, "Why did you let her do this? Why do you care all of a sudden?"

Chevalier heard Gilbert's questions one by one without ever facing him again. "You said it yourself", he replied. "We are the same kind of monster. Plagued by the same troubles. Torn by the same burdens. Tied by the same strings. I know very well what she means to you. I know selfishness is a human emotion, and I understand how hard it was for you to keep the blade from my heart. And I will never say this again but", he turned to meet Gillbert's eyes, "I'm sorry. As it turns out I'm more human than I thought".

He took pride in that realization. Never before would he have thought such a thing to be possible; for him to accept being human as something to be proud and praised for. But she was. And she was possibly the only person in his life who saw him as such as well. If he were to lose her, it would not be by his hand.

"Chevalier", Gilbert called out to him again, "I hate you"

There was a knock on the door.

"Yeah. I'd hate me too", said Chevalier. And with that, he left Gilbert to the care of the newly arrived Sariel and went upstairs to meet with his brothers and inform them of their next steps.

[angelicizedeve]

‧₊˚. ༘ 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐩 .♡ ·˚ ₊˚ˑ

feat. kazuha

synopsis: while working at a popular bakery cafe named "the cherry on top", a frequent customer catches your eye...

genre: fluff

notes: heyy!! here's a little valentines day gift for you guys <3. also, let's just pretend that your university requires uniforms LMAO. thank you for reading !

♡ the bakery has a charming exterior, with its dusty pink walls, red and white striped awnings, and fairy lights strung outside the large windows. There are some sweet flowers and silk flowers planted outside the french doors and all along the windowsills.

♡ the bakery is quite popular for its study-friendly environment and delicious products, especially the salted caramel cinnamon buns. you had made them with the chefs on one of your off days and now it's a bestseller!

♡ so, you’re chatting with your friend and taking their order, as you usually do.

“yeah, i still have a ton of homework to do.”

you glanced over the counter as more customers lined up.

“okay, you better get going.”

your friend nods and waves goodbye. you barely look up from your cash register before saying your usual “hi there! what can i get for you?”.

“hmm, what would you recommend?” says a smooth voice.

your eyes shoot up to see a guy around your age. he has white locks of hair with a red streak that’s tied back into a loose ponytail, some strands escaping and framing his face. he carryies a bookbag and still has his uniform on, and you can see that he attends the same university you go to. a small smile adorns his features.

“um..maybe the salted caramel buns? i mean, they must be popular for a reason.” you blurt.

he nods.

“sure, i’ll have one with a vanilla latte.”

you send the order off and help the next customer, but your mind cant shake the interaction.

♡ the mysterious man starts to frequently visit the cafe, nearly everyday. eventually you asked him if he’d like to make an account so that he can save money.

he laughed and replied, “i already have an account. it’s under the name, 'kaedahara kazuha'.”

“oh! had i known i would’ve put that in so you’d spend less.” you said sheepishly.

“not to worry, i’m fine with giving a few extra dollars.” he said with a shrug and a smile.

“so, the usual today?” you asked, like you do everyday.

“sure. but…would you like to join me today?”

your eyebrows raised at this pleasant surprise. you glanced at the clock behind him.

“sure, my break is in like, five minutes anyways.”

kazuha nodded. “okay, then i’ll have two cinnamon buns today.”

a smile slowly spilled onto your lips.

♡ after tossing your apron in your locker, you headed to the table where kazuha was sitting. the two of you chatted as you ate the treats he had purchased.

♡ when your break was coming to an end, kazuha handed you a small note.

“here’s my number. call me, yeah?”

he smiled and waved before exiting the cafe.

i suppose “the cherry on top” was a fitting name for where you worked, because this really was the cherry on top.

© 𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯

[megabuild]

what is aoyuer? is that an acronym for something?

okay so i meant to make a big doc explaining what aoyuer is like months ago but then i started working on different projects and put it on the back burner.. and then i got ill and now i don't have much time to work on stuff at all. but not having the doc sucks and means anything i ever say about it is very confusing. so i'm so sorry anon for using your ask as an excuse to just dump as much aoyuer lore as i can without reasonably spoiling it but also thanks for reminding me that i have a lot of followers here who have never heard of it. a sobering thought

tldr; aoyuer (as of yet untitled empires rewrite) (sorry bree) is my au rewrite of empires smp that aims to connect seasons 1 and 2 as well as after life, new life, and a bunch more inbetween, with a major focus on pixlriffs' story. it also ties up a lot of loose ends and is generally darker and more adult-aimed than the original series. technically that's all you need to know but here's the no spoilers plot rundown for those interested

so aoyuer is built up of ~7 arcs but only 4 of them are like Super important

arc 0: this is just afterlife smp and a ton of early worldbuilding, the crash of the great stags, etc; what's most important from this is that oli exists and has for thousands of years, probably

arc 1: empires season 1! set in the 1500s, the world is going through a sort of renaissance period with massive technological advancements. pixlriffs the copper king (cprk) is working a boring little library job and spending most of his time kicking himself and being mad he hasn't done anything with his life (he is only like 30 but the idea of feeling old and unaccomplished even when you're young is a major theme for arc 1). enter fwhip! who is his annoying ex-roommate ex-bestie ex-boyfriend from university that left him on pretty bad terms. he has a way more accomplished job and as part of that he has been allowed to head The Empires Project which is a major journey intended to further some distant colonies while also investigating the land they're on. the land has some weiiird properties which fwhip thinks could be harnessed to create functional immortality (which was the subject of pix's thesis). he wants pix to come with him and investigate. pix feels weird about it but agrees to come along and be the "emperor" for the desert colony while he does his research... and then things get fucked up and scary! its a high fantasy that switches between a metaphorical dissection of their horrid will they won't they relationship and both of their issues aaand a more Literal dissection of the land and things living in it. including people and animals. at times. and also involves pix accidentally awakening a curse for a billion million years which sets the rest of aoyuer in motion.

arc 1.5 is sort of Not important but iwlike it a lot. there's not much to be said for it without major spoilers but it's set a little bit after arc 1 and comprises of fwhip being very upset about how his stupid project fell apart and trying to write up an Official Report on why everything fell apart while also coming to terms with him being the worst guy to ever have lived or something. much of aoyuer is like thinly veiled metaphors for mental illness but this one is just about mental illness

arc 2 sends us years forward into season 2 in the 1800s and our protagonist is professor pixelle riffs, lorekeeper (lrkp) who leaves his job as an archaeology lecturer to go and study the ancient capital and The Machiiine. because the machine set up WAY too much cool stuff to just ignore. sculk infection/possession is a big part of this arc. however while he's doing all this he meets oli! remember him? who has crash landed in S2 (basically the same way he did in canon) and is now regularly butting heads with pix. they eventually become friends and then umm something more :3 a lot of this remains the same as canon except the sculk arc gets a proper conclusion and ties into the ghost stuff. it ends with oli's finale where he still fakes his death (the goblin stuff is going to be changed but it's up in the air right now) and pix is devastated but pretty certain there's something not quite right so he picks greggory up and goes off in search of his lame ass boyfriend.

arc 2.5 actually takes place mid arc 2 because it's the hermpires crossover, which is less different dimensions and more different times (hermitcraft is our present and the rift facilitates time travel). when pixelle the archaeologist steps through the rift it causes serious time fuckery and so he sort of gets. forcefully ejected from his body and becomes a ghost possessing pixl riffs of the hermitcraft recap (rcp) who stumbles out of the rift very tired and very confused! there's a lot of fun mistaken identity stuff between him and oli and this is generally the most like. comedic and casual of the arcs though it still has some sweet moments.

arc 3 is just new life smp. where pixelle finally ends up in nl, finds that his lame ass boyfriend is still alive, and has relationship drama with him Except on top of that the land that new life is set on has similar properties to the land from arc 1 (functional immortality except it has some different effects, aka. going through drastic physical changes every time you "die") and so pixelle starts investigating that and maybe finds out that his whole life and his ancestors and descendants lives might be caught up in a time loop because of the copper king. forever and ever. this hasn't got much for it because i was going to work from new life canon as a base but then both pix and oli stopped playing on it LMFOHALDH but anyway.

aaand arc 4! final arc! which is set in the present right after pixl (the recap one) returns home from the hermitpires crossover. except the weird ghost voice of his ancestor in his head.. isn't going away? or rather its been replaced by a different one who is sending him on The Heros Journey. along with zloy and lyarrah and modern fwhip. this is basically the long awaited Conclusion to the curse that the copper king put in place and a lot of bullshit happens that icant really explain but it ties up all the loose ends and is generally just pix consistently having the worst time. hes the only pix who goes through hell without bringing it upon himself like he was just born.

and um. that's aoyuer! obviously there's more for all the arcs and i am happy to answer Basically any questions even though i get a little nervous sharing stuff about it because im shy. But iwhope thag explains at least a bit for everyone. My dream is to write this all into various fanfics but that looks kinda unlikely rn but it means a lot to me and you can kinda safely assume if I'm ever talking about or drawing empires there's a 99% chance it's actually aoyuer because I forget canon exists .AOYUER WORLDWIDE