#ugh yes i'm grateful indeed

[educatedsimps]

Ahh I'm so in love with the idea of timeskip!Kenma as a dad 🥺 You've really made me even more in love with your blog 😘 Can I please request timeskip!Kenma x fem reader where he introduces our son to his followers on his stream? Baby Kodzuken ❤️ I'd love it if his followers were a gushing in the comments about how cute the baby is and how happy Kenma is when he talks about his baby boy and us (his wife)? I love Kenma and the thought of him as a dad is just the cutest to me. Thank you so much! Take care 🫶🏻

≪ back to fics masterlist

kozume kenma x f!reader

a/n: OH MY GODSHKKAFYSYVUDNGUSYRGUKSYKS THIS IS LITERALLY THE CUTEST IDEA EVERRR OMG thanku for requesting my dear kenma anon ❤️ i'm so sorry this took WAY longer to publish than expected so THANK YOU for having the patience of an angel 😭 i really hope this was worth the wait so pls enjoy! lots of love and u take care too <33

cw: TIMESKIP SPOILERS, parenting au, domestic fluff, slice of life kinda thing, chat gg crazy bc kenma is an amazing dad. GREEN FLAG DAD KENMA

"Hey guys, welcome back. I've got a very special announcement to make today, so here we are," Kenma adjusted his camera, smiling slightly.

It was a regular Tuesday evening and you were taking the time to do some self-care, which left Kenma with his second favourite thing in the world - his son.

As a YouTuber, professional gamer, stock trader, streamer and CEO of his own company, Kenma's work schedule was extremely flexible, and both of you were grateful for that. Not only did he have various sources of income, but he could be home as much as he wanted. And being home meant being able to spend time with his precious son, Kozume Kaito.

Kaito was your six month old bundle of joy - literally. If you had told Kenma a decade ago that he'd be a dad one day, he would have never believed you. Until, that is, you had Kaito.

Even before Kaito's birth, Kenma had no idea how he was supposed to take care of and raise a whole child. He just knew that he wanted to be the best father you and Kaito could've ever asked for. And so, you saw how stressed he could got about even the tiniest of things.

"What size clothes do we buy for him? Will S or M be better? What if he's a huge baby? Let's just get one of each size... Wait, what about pacifiers? A-and bottle hoods? What shape will he prefer? Longer ones? Shorter ones? Softer or slightly tougher ones? Ugh forget it, we'll get one of each type too."

However, all his worries disappeared the moment he held little baby Kaito in his arms. Kenma had never really been a crier, but the second he laid eyes on your beautiful son, he couldn't help but let it all out in the hospital ward.

"Can you guys see me clearly?" Kenma asked. The excited responses of "YESSS" "what's the surprise??" "OMG YOU'RE SO PRETTY" "yes i can see your handsome face" confirmed that his camera was indeed working just fine. Amused, he chuckled lightly. "Great. I'll be right back."

As he left the frame, his viewers were left staring at the background screen in his office, a big logo of Bouncing Ball Corp. After a few seconds of silence, some shuffling could be heard as Kenma returned with a chubby ball of energy in his arms. The moment he stepped back into frame with his beloved son in hand, the chat exploded.

kodzukenner: NO WAY IS THAT YOUR BABY??? riceballzzz: CUTIEEEEEEEEE AHHHH nek0mab1tch: omg he has a kid ?? ADORABLE miyamiya07: hawajhjchdjvhhfjhfrsjkhfdhasjhjchjfhjvhkrh lookattheclouds: since when?! vballer1208: HE HAS A CHILD??????????????

Kenma proudly held up his son like he had won an Olympic trophy - he simply adored Kaito. Meanwhile, Kaito watched, enamoured, as comments flooded the chat. Among those comments were also questions about Kaito and even you.

He knew the news of his son would be a major surprise to his online community, especially since the two of you had very successfully hidden your pregnancy from the public. Neither of you wanted to deal with all the pressure from netizens, media and the public.

"'He has Y/n's smile'," Kenma read one comment aloud. Chuckling, he agreed, "He does, doesn't he? He's lucky to inherit the most beautiful smile on earth."

Another comment asked where you were, and when Kenma simply replied with "Doing her own stuff." some commenters gushed about how cute it was that Kenma was on "babysitting duties".

With a scrunch of his face, Kenma retorted, "It's not babysitting. He's literally my child. Y/n's just doing her own stuff, what's the big deal? Come on, y'all gotta delete those gender role stereotypes from your heads, that's so 1950s." He huffed.

"'What's his name?'" Kenma read. "Hm. Y/n and I have actually decided not to reveal his name, so we hope you'll respect our decision."

kodzukenner: omg i wonder what his name is he's so cute i'm sure his name is as cute as him! nek0mab1tch: what if they named him kodzuken bouncingballer: baby kodzuken HAHA miyamiya07: OMG BABY KODZUKEN ??

Kenma chuckled as he read the comments guessing his child's name.

"'Is he joining today's stream?'" Kenma read aloud. Turning to his son with a gentle smile on his face, he replied, "You bet. Aren'tcha, big guy?"

In response, Kaito burst into a fit of giggles, excitedly babbling and pointing at the big screen in front of him.

The comments once again exploded into cheers of happiness as Kenma sat down in his usual gaming position, but this time, with his beloved son in his lap.

a/n: i'm so sorry this is really short 😭😭 but i hope it's okay :,) tysm for requestingg! hope you liked it bae <3

© educatedsimps 2024. do not repost, copy, translate or plagiarise any work from this blog on tumblr or any other platforms. if you do, the simps will hunt you down. likes and reblogs are appreciated!

[yazthebookish]

House of Flame and Shadow

Prologue and Chapter 1 reading updates

(Warning: spoilers below!!)

Prologue (Lidia's POV)

Morven and Einar are pieces of shit.

I guess Cormac is gone for good 💔

At least we got some descriptions of how some of the other Asteri look like. It still bothers me Rigelus chose the form of a 17-year-old boy. Ugh what a creep.

"Quinlan and Athalar are mates. She will return to this world because of that bond. And when she does, she will go straight to him."

THEY 👏🏼 ARE 👏🏼 MATES 👏🏼

"Athalar and Baxian dangled unconscious from the ceiling, their torsos patchworks of scars and burns. And their backs..."

The Asteri better start counting their fucking days.

"Lidia couldn't look at the third figure hanging between them. Couldn't get a breath down near him."

UGH!!!!

"Baxian still hung unconscious. Pollux had beaten him into a bloody pulp last night after severing his and Athalar's wings with a blunt-toothed saw. The Helhound didn't so much as stir."

Pollux I hope you'll burn in the deepest pit of Hell and get to have the worst death in the history of SJM character deaths.

"They'd never spoken mind-to-mind outside of their dreaming, but she'd been trying since he'd arrived here. Again and again, she'd cast her mind toward his. Only silence answered."

This sounds a whole lot like a Daemati. Like I'm still not sure if she is but it seems like it.

---

Chapter 1 (Bryce's POV)

"The darkness seemed inherent to the three people standing across from her: a petite female in gray silk, and two winged males clad in black scalelike armor, one of them-the beautiful, powerful male in the center of the trio— literally rippling with shadows and stars. Rhysand, he'd called himself. The one who looked so much like Ruhn."

Let's fucking gooooo!!

"You said your name is Bryce Quinlan. That you come from another world —Midgard." Rhysand murmured to the winged male beside him. Translating, perhaps.

Yes Rhys show us how useful your Duolingo lessons were.

Rhys seems to be agitated about her.

Master of spinning bullshit, indeed. "So maybe I'm here for that. Maybe the sword sensed that dagger and ... brought me to it." Silence. Then the silent, hazel-eyed warrior laughed quietly. How had he understood without Rhysand translating? Unless he could simply read her body language, her tone, her scent—The warrior spoke with a low voice that skittered down her spine. Rhysand glanced at him with raised brows, then translated for Bryce with equal menace, "You're lying."

Bryce, honey, that's the Spymaster of the Night Court.

"I just watched my mate and my brother get captured by a group of intergalactic parasites," she snarled. "I have no interest in doing anything except finding a way to help them." Rhysand looked to the warrior, who nodded, not taking his gaze off Bryce for so much as a blink. "Well," Rhysand said to Bryce, crossing his muscled arms. "That's true, at least."

Not Azriel functioning as Rhysand's personal lie detector. Impressive though.

" I do not pry where I am not willingly invited." Bryce lurched back in the chair, nearly knocking it over at the smooth male voice in her mind. Rhysand's voice. But she answered, thanking Luna for keeping her own voice cool and collected, "Code of mind-speaking ethics?"

LOLOLOLOLOL 🤣🤣🤣🤣

"So this is it, then. This is where we-the Midgard Fae— originated. My ancestors left this world and went to Midgard. .. and we forgot where we came from."

The theory I had since before even HOSAB came out is finally confirmed. I mean it was semi-confirmed in HOSAB but some readers still debated it.

The corner of Rhysand's mouth curled upward. "We will not torture it from you, nor will I pry it from your mind. If you choose not to talk, it is indeed your choice. Precisely as it will be my choice to keep you down here until you decide otherwise."

Bryce couldn't stop herself from coolly surveying the room, her attention lingering on the grate and the hissing that drifted up from it. "'ll be sure to recommend it to my friends as a vacation spot."

Of course Rhys has to pull the "choice" speech whenever he can 🤣 also, BRYCE LOL!!!

"You haven't seen it in fifteen thousand years, or spoken this language in nearly as long-which lines up pertectly with the timeline of the Starborn Fae arriving in Midgard."

So they exist in the same timeline then but Midgard happens to be more advanced.

"It is in our history, Rhysand," Amren said gravely. "But the Asteri were not known by that name. Here, they were called the Daglan."

Asteri are the Daglan, we guessed as much in HOSAB but that's another theory confirmed now!

"Azriel, without Rhysand to translate, watched in silence. Bryce could have sworn shadows wreathed him, like Ruhn's, yet... wilder. The way Cormac's had been."

Ruhn's darkness seemed more similar to Rhys, but Cormac was close to what we know of Shadowsingers. But if Shadows are an Avallen Fae's gifts then how is Azriel one? We're told Shadowsingers are not specific to any courts but there are no Shadowsinger Fae in Midgard than Avallen Fae. But Azriel has a unique way with his shadows (given that magic is more powerful in Prythian.

"The Veritas orb?" Amren said, and Azriel lifted an eyebrow.

Oh damn.

Rhysand mastered himself, a cool mask sliding into place. "You live in such a world." It wasn't entirely a question. But Bryce nodded. "Yes." "And they want to bring all of that ... here." "Yes." Rhysand stared ahead. Thinking it through. Azriel just kept his eyes on the space where the orb had displayed the utter destruction of her world. Dreading-and yet calculating. She'd seen that look before on Hunt's face. A warrior's mind at work.

She showed them the destruction and all the weapons the Asteri have. She even showed them Rigelus. Rhys, Azriel, and even Amren seem at a loss for words.

Bryce examined the silver bean that lay smooth and gleaming in her hand. Amren said without looking at her, "You swallow it, and it will translate our mother tongue for you. Allow you to speak it, too." "Fancy," Bryce murmured.

Of course they have a pill for translating any language and here we've been pondering about how they would communicate.

Amen turned to Rhysand and said in that new, strange language -their language: "The glowing letters inked on her back... they're the same as those in the Book of Breathings."

Oooooh Leshon Hakodesh 👀

Then Azriel said in a soft, lethal voice, "Explain or you die."

Holy hell that's hot—I mean��Azriel that's not a way to treat a woman chill the fuck out.

---

And we got to the end. This is what SJM only had available on her website. 4 more days until I get the full book and continue then 🤩!!

Also, Azriel's shadows seem to be around and thriving after all 😌 I recall being told they're gone for good based on HOSAB's ending, not that I took it seriously Lol.

[funbirdnest]

Atlantis - Prologue

Hello! I will be translating the fine climax event Blue Ocean * The shining truth of Atlantis. This translation comes in collaboration with @spectralpooch and mia (nenosuns)

English proofreader: @spectralpooch

Japanese proofreader: nenosuns

Second part hasnt come out yet but I hope you enjoy the story

(A dream. Or, perhaps, the harsh reality of Himemiya Tori)

Tori: (………….)

(I can't… breathe... )

(It hurts. It hurts so, so much.)

(I can't keep my eyes open… I can't see anything.)

(It's so dark and cold in here.)

(It's cold. So, so cold.)

(I'm about to freeze…. Why is it so cold?)

(Hey, is anyone there?)

(Yuzuru! Hibiki-senpai! Eichi-sama…!)

(Is anyone there? Anyone would be fine, please I…)

(It hurts. I can't see anything. And it's so, so, so cold.)

(Where even am I? Why am I in such a…?)

(Eichi-sama! Eichi-sama! Eichi-sama!)

(The place where you stand is so high, and it looks so cold…)

(I stretched my hand as far as I could and desperately tried to reach you.)

(But I'm not an angel, and I wasn't able to fly through the sky.)

(So I succumbed. My wings shattered and I crashed down.)

(Ah, is this the sea?)

(I must be at the very bottom of the deep, deep sea, where no light can reach.)

(Is that why it's so cold, so dark, and so hard to breathe?)

(Cough... cough... cough...)

Yuzuru: … Bocchama?

I-Is everything all right?

You collapsed during SS and you are still recovering, so you shouldn't overexert yourself—

Tori: Hh... hh... Ugh... gh...

Yuzuru: If you are unable to respond, then I will have no choice but to call an ambulance immediately...

Tori: Pant... Pant... Yu-Yuzuru?

Yuzuru: Yes. It is me, Yuzuru.

I am here by your side, as always.

Tori:… Yeah. Guess you are.

Hehe... Even though I came to live in the dorms, I ended up sharing a room with you, Yuzuru. So tiresome.

And here I thought I'd be able to do whatever I wanted without nosy people like you spying on me all the time.

Yuzuru: Jesting aren't we? Nevertheless, even if we were to be assigned different rooms, Bocchama, I would still choose to reside in your room.

So that I can be by your side and serve you. After all, taking care of you is my job, as well as my reason to live.

Tori: Uwaaah... Groooss... You're so annoying ♪

Yuzuru: Fufu. Your words and actions don't match at all.

Right now you're holding my hand so tightly—Bocchama, I'm always going to have my hands full looking after a spoiled child like you, aren't I?

Tori: I'm sorry. I just had a really scary dream.

I may have said some weird things in my sleep because of that. But I'm fine now—It's not like I have a cold or anything.

I'm sure that I'll be able to get back to working super hard by tomorrow.

Yuzuru: Hmm... Indeed, your temperature appears to be normal. It's occasionally hard to tell because your body temperature, like a child's, is naturally high.

Tori: When did you measure my temperature?

Yuzuru: With my talents, I have the power to change your clothing from head to toe without you noticing a thing, Bocchama.

Since I know where all your nerves and sensitive points are, I can check your body thoroughly without you feeling anything, much like an acupuncture session—

Tori: Wait, wait, that's so scary! I swear, sometimes your weird, mysterious skills are way too scary and gross!

Yuzuru: Oh, but I trained especially for you, Bocchama ♪

Tori: Yeah, and that's why you're so scary!

Yuzuru: There's no need for you to be scared, because I will always be on your side, Bocchama.

Tori: I know~ And I'm grateful but… Having someone way more talented than I am devote their entire life to me is a lot to deal with.

And I don't feel worthy enough of being treated like that.

Yuzuru: What are you saying? It seems as though the nightmare you just had has left you quite anxious.

But don't you worry. Bocchama is a good and virtuous person who is worthy of my service.

If you continue to doubt my words, I can sit at your bedside and repeat them a million times over into your ear.

Tori: I think I'll have another nightmare if you do, so please don't.

Yuzuru: I only wanted to whisper about... my love for you, Bocchama.

Tori: You're half asleep too, aren't you, Yuzuru?

Oh, no wonder—it's already 3 AM. And yet I woke you up while you were fast asleep. Sorry about that.

Yuzuru: Not at all. It would be troublesome if something were to happen to you, so please do not hesitate to rely on me if you are not feeling well.

There is no need to concern yourself with time or circumstances.

I have said so many times already, but once again: I am, now and forever, your most faithful ally and I will always put you first no matter what.

Please, don't ever forget that.

Tori: Hm…I get that too.

Yuzuru: Has your anxiety passed?

Tori: For now, yeah... Ah, now that I'm more relaxed, I'm starting to get sleepy.

Yuzuru: That's good to hear. Shall we hold hands like this until you fall asleep?

Tori: I'm not a baby. Yuzuru, you have work tomorrow as well, right? So you should hurry up and sleep too.

I feel just fine now.

[pabit]

[corrupted footage]

OH WOW. THESE COOKIES REALLY ARE FUCKING AWESOME. WELL DONE, COWBOY!

Haha, thank you thank you. I’m hoping this can cheer you up a little…you’ve had quite an emotional day.

EMOTIONAL? I'M NOT EMOTIONAL.

Really…? Sorry sweetheart, but I’ve read back on your posts from earlier today and…it seems to me like you’re full of those stinkin’ feelings, actually! 

YEAH, NO FUCKING DUH. I SAID I'M NOT “E-MO-TION-ALLL”…YA DIG? I DON'T WAIL LIKE A WENCH AT EVERY LITTLE INCONVENIENCE. BUT THAT'S NOT TO SAY I HAVE ZERO CAPACITY FOR “FEELINGS” EITHER. IT'S TWO DIFFERENT THINGS. SO DONT PISS ME OFF.

Oh fine. Let’s get serious then.

What about other feelings? In your story about Vinny, you said you had felt something there but couldn’t figure out what.

(HABIT swallows the rest of the food in his mouth and pauses his vigorous feasting to stare down into the cookie plate)

…FUCK. WHAT'S YOUR ANGLE, PATRICK. I THOUGHT YOU WANTED ME TO CHEER UP…THIS TOPIC WON'T BE CONDUCIVE TO THAT END.

I am sincerely trying to help you, Habs, that's my angle. The fact is, I can cheer you up with small gestures that will certainly make you feel good for the moment, but you wont feel any better overall by refusing to talk about the shit that's dragging you down. 

…UGH. I GUESS YOU ARE RIGHT, BUT… VINNY IS DEAD – NONE OF THOSE FEELINGS FUCKING MATTER ANYMORE, PAT. THEY PROBABLY NEVER DID. WHAT MORE IS THERE TO TALK ABOUT?

Ah. That’s the part that haunts you isn’t it; the “probably” of it all. You’re uncertain, still confused about what happened here – what went wrong. And most importantly, you want to know why.

Am I correct?

……

Hm. 

………………….

Not going to answer me? Fine, fuck it. This is how I see it:

You became attached to this guy like ya never could with anyone else in the whole fuckin universe, Habit. And it felt so good to do so. You let yourself become lost in a fantasy; anticipating the thrill of having Vinny fumble over himself to keep you interested. Or how grateful he would be, to be the one entrusted with building you back up after every great fall; and you fall hard and often. You could crush him utterly and have him back in the next life. Vinny is much smarter and much stronger than he looks, and just as obsessive in his own ways…so he’d climb out of the rubble and do it all over again, just because he can; just because he wants to.

Oh yes…you and him would have grown so much stronger together, enough to take on the whole damn planet someday if you guys really tried. And you wanted that so badly. A monster-man and a man-made monster, gleefully kicking up the dust of all the world’s ashes, readying it for her new rulers: Vinny and the Habit, side by side, hand in hand, blood on blood.

It was a wonderfully childish ideal to believe in all that though, wasn't it? Even after all you’ve done for him, Vin betrayed you; taking all of those unspoken dreams and unfulfilled desires along with him as he dies to a fucking papercut.

So much time spent with him…now made completely pointless. So many pieces of your mind, heart, and body gifted to him, just to carelessly toss you to the curb when you weren’t looking…

It’s easier on a broken heart to deny that it’s broken in the first place. It's easier to fall in line when the numbness takes hold, and mindlessly insist that none of it matters; never did, never will. There's no reason to cry over spilled milk as they say. It's no big deal. It’s all just part of the game. Vinny was meant to be nothing more than a pawn on your board anyways. But he was indeed more than just that to you, wasn’t he?

Vin softened you and left you exposed to a world that won’t ever accept what you'll become even after he is gone; and he won’t be coming back, not this time. You and him made sure of it by bringing those awful weapons to life on that chilly fall evening before the end of the world. Your last full day together; where everything else in the universe ceased to exist beyond the confines perpetuated by two desolate dreamers; a warm fire at his legs; the melody of ghosts crowding around, crying out towards the inky sky above; beautiful and tragic all the same. You must have seen that in him, too.

After the end of it all, you got out alive and he did not. You didn’t win the game nor Vinny’s companionship, but you survived…and just barely.

Vinny is dead. 

And when that harsh reality slaps you across the face, you know you will never be allowed to forget the price you’ve paid, with suffering and with fire, for the loyalty that Vin never actually intended to give you. Now you’re covered with those scars. Razor sharp claws have sunk themselves deeply into you and won't let go. However…to whom do these claw marks belong to? Vinny; for betraying your trust and destroying your dreams? Or yourself; for letting him do it so easily…?

Why did you go back to your old sinking vessel, Habit?

Were you really so tempted by the belief that not taking Evan’s corpse would otherwise be wasteful? A shame?

Were you inspired by the discolored splotches painting decaying flesh in dull greys and blues; admiring the texture of his flesh canvas, well-weathered by the rain and the hungry mouths of all the tiny critters that feast happily upon each wrinkle?

Did the overwhelming smell of iron from all that ghastly bloodspill soaking into the ground below, brought up in the wafts of wet earth and wild mountain grasses, bring a wistful tear to your eye? 

Was Evan really worth all of that to you…?

…

No.

You weren’t there for Evan at all, I think. He was more of an afterthought if anything. It was Vinny you wanted to see though. And I believe that’s why you made the impulsive decision to repossess his friend’s body; it was the only way to be there at Vin’s side and feel him next to you, just one last time.

Then you ran away to avoid the consequences.

...........................................................................

>>

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Galileo Galilei Main Story

Translations may not always capture the exact nuances or tone of the original text. Expect grammatical errors and inaccuracies.

After arriving in the city in the afternoon, I let out a deep sigh.

(Even this morning, I didn't feel like I was alive.)

Just like the other day, I had another dream where someone took my life.

(Last time it was a hunter, but this time I was killed by a pureblooded vampire.)

(I guess I was really a dhampir in my dreams.)

Although the people and scenes in the two dreams were different, they had one thing in common.

(In the dream, I was despised by both humans and vampires just because I'm a dhampir.)

Even though they were dreams, fear and sadness lingered strongly in my heart, and I let out another sigh, as I had done many times before.

Then...

Vlad: "What's with the sigh, Mitsuki?"

Mitsuki: "Vlad!"

The one who greeted me was Vlad in his apron.

There was a wagon nearby loaded with flowers, and it seemed like he was doing his usual work as a florist.

Mitsuki: "Thanks for your hard work. I actually made some baked sweets. Would you like to have them with Faust and Charles?"

Vlad: "Wow, it smells nice. Thanks, I'd love to."

Vlad: "But are you okay?"

Mitsuki: "Huh?"

After handing him the sweets, Vlad looked at me and gently touched the area around my eyes with his long fingers.

Vlad: "You have dark circles. Are you not sleeping well?"

Mitsuki: "I had a nightmare. I was feeling down, so I made those sweets as a distraction."

Vlad: "I see. Just wait a moment."

With that, Vlad pulled out a bundle of purple flowers from the wagon and offered them to me.

Vlad: "They're lavender. If you put them by your pillow when you sleep, it should help you relax."

Mitsuki: "Wow, thank you. Can I really have them?"

Vlad: "Yes. I wish I could save you from the nightmares, but for now, all I can do is wish you a good night's sleep."

After parting ways with Vlad, I leaned in to smell the lavender I received.

(It smells nice. It might indeed help me sleep well.)

Feeling grateful for Vlad's thoughtfulness, I walked down the street with warm feelings.

Passerby: "Hey! Watch where you're going, kid. Don't wander around like that."

???: "S-Sorry."

I heard a guy's booming voice and a kid's gentle voice in the distance.

When I looked over, I saw a boy with golden curls and dirty clothes bowing to a passerby.

(That kid seems unsteady on his feet. I hope he's okay.)

As I watched, the boy bumped into someone again and fell afterward. Concerned, I hurried over to him.

Mitsuki: "Are you hurt?"

Curly-haired boy: "Ugh…"

The boy lifted his face, and I noticed his eyes were as clear and blue as the earth.

Curly-haired boy: "I'm thirsty."

Mitsuki: "Wait here. I'll go get you some water!"

I was about to stand up when he suddenly grabbed my skirt to stop me.

Curly-haired boy: "It's fine! I'm okay."

Mitsuki: "But you look like you're in so much pain."

Curly-haired boy: "Don't worry about me. My little sister is waiting, so I have to go."

Mitsuki: "Hey, wait!"

The boy disappeared into an alley without even turning back at the sound of my call.

As I walked along the banks of the Seine River, I couldn't stop thinking about the boy I had just encountered.

(Was I being too nosy?)

(But his clothes and shoes were so worn out.)

Even in seemingly glamorous Paris, many people were struggling with poverty and orphans.

That was the reality I learned upon arriving in the 19th century.

I was still lost in thought when I suddenly heard someone calling out.

???: "Hey, Miss."

Mitsuki: "Huh?"

???: "Would you like to go on a boat tour around Paris?"

I turned around and saw a man with a half-up hairstyle and a hat, smiling.

Drake: "For a lady like you, I'd offer some special services."

(Oh, is he a tout?)

Mitsuki: "Sorry, but I'm not really in the mood for that right now."

Drake: "Ah, I see. You do look a bit down."

The man leaned in slightly and peered into my face.

Feeling unexpectedly close, I tensed up, but the man just smiled again.

Drake: "In that case, all the more reason to hop on my boat for a change of pace."

Drake: "By the way, I'm also feeling really down today since there were no customers."

Drake: "If things stay like this, I'm afraid my boss will give me an earful later."

Mitsuki: "Hehe."

Drake: "Oh? You look even cuter when you smile. So, how about we both forget our worries and have a blast?"

(He's quite the smooth talker.)

(I feel like I'm being taken for a ride, but it sure would be a nice change of pace.)

Mitsuki: "Then, just for a while."

I couldn't help but smile along with him as I boarded the boat, following his invitation.

Mitsuki: "Wow!"

Drake: "Right?"

The boat cruised effortlessly on the Seine River, and the shimmering water under the sun, along with the breeze blowing through, felt nice.

Drake: "Feeling better now, miss?"

Mitsuki: "Yes, much better than earlier."

Drake: "Huh, so a boat ride isn't the perfect cure-all, huh?"

Mitsuki: "Oh, no! It's just a matter of my own feelings."

(Maybe it's because I had a scary dream or met that boy.)

The frustration of being in such an uncontrollable situation still lingered in my heart.

(I've been living a comfortable life back in my world and being treated well in the mansion since I came to the 19th century.)

(But that's just my luck, and it doesn't apply to everyone in this era.)

(Is there anything I can do to help?)

Lost in thought, I brushed back my hair, swaying in the wind, and my fingertips suddenly touched the scar on my forehead.

It was the scar from when someone saved my life when I was a child.

(At that time, I wanted to be someone who could also help others.)

I remember the memories I told everyone at the mansion just a few days ago and the feelings I had at that time burning deep in my heart.

(I know poking my nose at other people's business is bad, but if I meet that boy again, I'll try talking to him.)

(I have to take a step forward, starting with that.)

As my mood began to brighten, the scenery appeared even more radiant.

Then, out of nowhere, the guy suddenly handed me a bottle.

Mitsuki: "Mr. Sailor, what's this?"

Drake: "It's Drake."

Mitsuki: "Huh?"

Drake: "My name's Francis Drake, but just call me Drake, miss."

Mitsuki: "Okay, Drake. What's in this bottle?"

Drake: "A drink to lift your spirits."

Mitsuki: "What!? Drinking during the day is a bit much!"

Drake: "Haha, just kidding. Don't worry, it's just grape juice."

Drake: "Consider it a treat. Well, mine's wine, though."

He raised another bottle and grinned mischievously.

Mitsuki: "Drake, aren't you working right now?"

Drake: "Oops, so strict."

Drake: "Don't worry, I can hold my liquor. I'll make sure to get us back to shore safe and sound."

(That's not really the issue here.)

Drake: "Come on, cheers!"

He handed me the grape juice and took a sip from his wine bottle.

(He's so carefree and likable.)

(But is it okay to drink something given by someone I just met?)

The bottle smelled distinctly of grapes, with no hint of alcohol.

Drake: "Are you being cautious? There's nothing weird in it. I could take a sip to show you if you'd like."

Mitsuki: "Um, no, it's okay. I'll give it a try."

(He doesn't seem like a bad person, so it should be fine.)

Feeling guilty for my hesitation, I also took a sip from the bottle.

Mitsuki: "Mmm, delicious!"

The sweet and rich taste passed through my throat, and the lush aroma filled my nostrils.

Drake: "Glad you like it. By the way, what's your name?"

Mitsuki: "I'm Mitsuki."

Drake: "Alright then, Mitsuki. Captain Drake is here to guide you through Paris."

Drake: "Over there is the Louvre Museum or something like that. It's apparently full of amazing treasures."

Mitsuki: "Hehe. You don't sound like a tour guide."

I chuckled at his tour-guiding skills.

But as I listened to his lively stories…

(Huh?)

I was suddenly overwhelmed by drowsiness.

Drake: "Mitsuki, what's wrong?"

Mitsuki: "I'm sorry, I suddenly feel sleepy. I think it's because I haven't slept much lately."

(Oh no, this isn't good. I'm getting sleepy.)

I tried to fight the drowsiness, but my eyelids stuck together like magnets, and eventually, I fell asleep.

???: "Who asked you to bring her here?"

(Huh? Who?)

A low, quiet voice reached my ears as my consciousness drifted.

???: "Don't make that face. I did it for your own good, you know?"

???: "Being patient doesn't suit you. It might be more interesting if you move quickly."

This time, I heard another, more cheerful voice.

Both voices sounded familiar, but they were different from the voices of anyone I knew from the mansion.

Mitsuki: "Mnn…"

I slowly opened my eyes and saw several books and a dome ceiling.

Feeling a bit disoriented by the unfamiliar sight, I...

Mitsuki: "Where am I!?"

I sat up abruptly from the sofa I was sleeping on, realizing I was in an unfamiliar place.

Drake: "Oh, you're awake, little fawn."

I turned my head and saw Drake, who had been with me on the boat, smiling.

But what surprised me even more was the unexpected presence of another person beside him.

Mitsuki: "Drake, and Professor Maury?"

(Why are they together?)

Previous Part ╎ Masterlist ╎ Premium

[roxannarambles]

Writing practice, short scene with an NPC & Rika on Pasio. Just noodling around with how to write pokemon battles in a more anime style now that I've watched Horizons.

Laurel sighed.

She, of course, always preferred the great outdoors over being stuck inside. She was a pokemon ranger, after all. That's why she usually carried plenty of potions and berries on hand, so she wouldn't need to visit the pokecenters very often. But eventually, even she had to make a run to one of the centers so she could stock up on supplies. It was always so busy in the centers and she felt a bit claustrophobic in such a crowded little building. She waited impatiently in the long line and was grateful when she finally reached the counter so she could grab what she needed and quickly bail.

Bags in hand, her beloved partner Bayleef carrying an additional bag in her mouth, they were in such a hurry to leave that she almost didn't even notice the woman calling out to her.

"Miss! Hey there, I think you dropped something!"

The words finally registering in her brain, Laurel stopped in her tracks and turned. A tall woman dressed in a suit quickly closed the distance with a few strides, holding out a box of Max Revives. She had a lazy smile and striking red eyes.

"Oh! Wow, I didn't even realize-- thank you so much!"

A little embarrassed, Laurel set down a bag and accepted the box from the friendly stranger, who answered easily,

"Yeah, no problem."

Laurel tried to quickly fit the box of revives back into her bag, but she had so many items already stuffed into both the bags it was proving difficult; the box spilled back out onto the floor, along with some potion bottles. She grunted in irritation and stooped to pick them back up. She heard the stranger comment,

"Looks like you have quite the haul. Need any help with those bags?"

"T-thank you, but Bayleaf and I should be okay--"

Bayleef set her bag down and chirped, waddling closer to help her trainer out. When the pokemon reached down to grab a potion bottle in her mouth, though, her leaf smacked against one of the bags Laurel had set down on. The bag promptly flopped over and spread its contents across the tile floor. Laurel's eyes widened and she automatically chided,

"Bayleef! Ugh . . ."

Bayleef lowered her head and let out a whine, looking remorseful over making her trainer look like a dummy in front of someone else.

The stranger chuckled, but in a very good-natured sort of way.

"Aw, I'm sure it didn't mean it."

Laurel sighed and patted Bayleef's head, saying,

"Oh, I know she didn't. She only recently evolved and she's still not used to how big her leaf is . . . the other day she kept slapping me in the face by mistake."

The other woman held a gloved hand to her face and gave an amused little snort.

"Sounds like a handful. Here, let me help you out with all that."

"Thank you so much."

After they'd repacked her bags with her supplies, they had some casual chit-chat.

"Bayleef, huh? A Johto pokemon, right?"

"Yes!"

"I haven't seen one up close and personal before. Mind if I pet her?"

"Sure, go ahead! She's very outgoing. Just be careful of her leaf, ahaha . . ."

The woman patted Bayleef's round head, then ran a hand along her long neck. Bayleef made a happy trilling sound, swinging the leaf about on her head delightedly.

"Aaw. What a sweet face. She's quite the cutie."

Laurel put her hands on her hips and grinned, proud of her partner.

"Thank you! She is, isn't she? She's going to get a kick out of this, she really thrives on compliments."

Indeed, Bayleef seemed incredibly pleased. The other woman laughed and turned to her.

"Oh, does she now? And what about her trainer?"

Laurel blinked.

"Me? Um . . . hmm, I guess I do too."

"Well, in that case, you're quite the cutie yourself."

The woman gave her a playful wink. Laurel felt her face go hot immediately and she released a nervous giggle. Weakly, she answered,

"T-thanks!"

She watched the other woman cross her arms and acquire a thoughtful look.

"Say, you wouldn't happen to be up for a quick battle, would you? Just a little one-on-one."

The woman's brows lifted high and she fixed her with a crooked smile. Laurel was thrown off by the stranger's sudden interest, but she wasn't exactly complaining.

"O-oh, you mean right now?"

The stranger nodded.

"Yep! Is it a bad time?"

Laurel stammered out,

"No, it-- it's, uh, not really! Now is fine! Um, you feel like a battle, Bayleef?"

Her pokemon bobbled up and down with excitement.

"Great! Let's head outside, then."

They walked to a field just outside the pokemon center, where their pokemon would have plenty of space to move around. Then the woman, who'd introduced herself as "Rika," released her own partner from its pokeball.

Laurel stared in fascination as the large, blobby brown pokemon appeared. It was very round and had stumpy legs and a fat tail. Its gaze was vacant and it had a wide mouth stretched out in a dopey smile.

"Whoa . . . look at this fellah . . . so cute! And an absolute unit."

Rika gave the pokemon's back a loving slap, saying,

"Yep, he's a big boy, all right."

"What is he called?"

"Clodsire! I guess you're not too familiar with Paldean pokemon, then?"

Laurel shook her head.

"Not really. He kinda reminds me of Quagsire, though."

"Mmhmm. They're related species."

The strange pokemon was nudging his snout into the ground, which was soft from a recent rain. He was getting dirt and muck all over his face. Laurel narrowed her eyes.

"Related species? So he must be ground type. He sure looks like he is, anyway. Am I right?"

"You catch on fast! He's a ground type, you're right."

The ranger's eyes sparked in sudden excitement.

"That means Bayleef and I have an advantage! C'mon, Bayleef, let's get this party started!"

She quickly got into position, far enough away so she could command her pokemon without being in range of any attacks. The other trainer chuckled, apparently amused by her sudden enthusiasum.

"Sure thing. You ready to battle, Clodsire?"

The pokemon grunted, pulling his face out of the mud with a pop.

"You ready, Bayleef?"

Bayleef wriggled her tail, staring at her opponent and chirping. Laurel translated,

"All set!"

"Great. Then on my count. Three . . . two . . . one . . ."

Rika dropped her hand, calling,

"Go!"

Laurel shouted eagerly,

"Bayleef, nail 'em with an Energy Ball!"

Bayleef responded to her trainer's enthusiasum, quickly powering up her move and spitting out a glowy green ball of energy. Rika didn't even react, just stood there calmly and watched as the green orb struck Clodsire square on the head, sinking into his squishy brown skin.

Clodsire barely even batted an eye.

"Uhhh?!" Laurel squawked, shocked.

Calmly, Rika commanded her own pokemon.

"Heh. Go ahead, Clodsire-- try a Mud Slap."

The placid pokemon wriggled in the mud he had been wallowing in before giving the ground a firm slap with his thick tail. His aim was impeccable, a small jet of mud striking Bayleef right in the face, despite their distance. Laurel had still been so shocked about that Energy Ball she hadn't even thought to warn Bayleef.

"Oh, drat-- Bayleef, I'm sorry--"

Her pokemon shook her head, whining miserbly about the mud getting in her eyes. Laurel wanted to go help wipe her face off, but it wasn't very sporting to interfere with the battle in that way. She forced herself to stay in place, gritting her teeth.

Her arms crossed, Rika commented,

"Good work, Clodsire. How 'bout a little more, just to be sure? Give it a real good squirt."

Clodsire clapped his little feet gleefully and smacked the mud again with his tail.

"Bayleef, watch out!"

Bayleef was already too blinded to avoid it and was coated with even more mud, now dripping down her neck as she squeaked in distress. Laurel squeezed a fist and bit back the urge to snap at the woman commanding Clodsire. It isn't her fault, it's mine. I gotta do better.

"Bayleef, shake it off! C'mon, let's see another Energy Ball!"

Bayleef did her best to shake off the mud and spat out another green orb, but the move missed Clodsire by a mile.

"Ugh."

"Clodsire, might as well keep going."

Laurel felt herself losing her cool when even more mud coated her beloved grass pokemon.

"Hey! Are you just gonna spam mud slaps all day?!"

Rika seemed briefly surprised at the ranger's outburst, but then she just shrugged.

"Why switch up something that works?"

Laurel huffed back,

"It's such a dirty tactic, though."

The other woman chuckled dryly.

"Well, I'm not a Ground-type specialist for nothin'." She paused, seemingly taking in just how riled up Laurel was, and continued calmly,

"But don't worry so much about all that. Just worry about how you and Bayleef are gonna get around it."

Normally, such a comment might have upset her even more, but the way it was said didn't seem condescending, just gentle and friendly. And anyway, she was right-- Laurel needed to get her head in the game.

She sighed and tried to re-focus.

"Okay, Bayleef, are you sure you can't get that mud off? Maybe wipe it off on the ground or something . . ."

The dinosaur bent her head down to try and wipe the sticky mud off on the grass, but to limited effect. It was a shame her pokemon didn't have hands. If she did, she could just get that awful muck right off. If only she could . . .

Wait. Bayleef didn't have hands, but she did have something else.

Laurel pointed, suddenly inspired.

"Bayleef!! Try swinging your leaf around really fast! Maybe you can blow that mud away!"

Her pokemon chirped, nodding, and began swinging the large leaf on her head as rapidly as she could. To Laurel's joy, that big leaf kicked up a breeze very easily, and the mud quickly went flying off. Laurel cheered,

"Yeah!! Great job, Bayleef! Now quick, hit Clodsire with an Energy Ball!"

Chirping, Bayleef charged and spat out a large green orb. Clodsire was big and slow and couldn't avoid the attack, getting struck head-on once again. Although, once again, it seemed to do practically nothing.

"Heh heh, nice work. Guess I'll need to switch things up after all," Rika said, looking proud. Laurel frowned.

"Looks like I need to as well. Bayleef, try a Poison Powder!"

Rika waved her hand casually and commanded,

"Clodsire, Poison Sting."

Laurel's eyes widened.

"Poison Sting? Bayleef, quick--"

Unfortunately, Bayleef was so busy releasing its Poison Powder, the Poison Sting took it entirely off-guard. Bayleef cried out, the attack striking her in the face.

Meanwhile, Clodsire just had his big dopey smile, seemingly unaffected by the powder he'd been sprinkled with.

"Wait, is he part poison type?! I thought you said he was Ground!"

"Well, I never claimed he was pure Ground."

Laurel smacked her face with a palm, briefly.

"Ngghh. All right, get some distance, Bayleef, and put up a Reflect!"

Bayleef bounded away from Clodsire, glowing with energy, putting out a wall of light on her side of the battlefield.

"Oh, nice. But we can play that game too. Clodsire, Amnesia!"

It was pretty hard to tell whether Clodsire was using a move at all; mostly it just gazed vacantly into space and blew some bubbles in the mud. Laurel knew better than to underestimate her opponent, though.

"Okay, Bayleef, now another Energy Ball!" The ball of light struck Clodsire, but her attacks were doing even less now. Laurel tried not to let her frustration show.

"Good work, keep going, Bayleef!"

"Another Poison Sting, Clodsire, whenever the mood strikes you."

The pokemon whittled away at each other, little by little; this was a war of attrition, now. The type matchup was not in Laurel's favor, but Energy Ball was way more powerful than Poison Sting, and Rika didn't seem interested in using anything else. She wasn't even asking Clodsire to dodge anything! If Rika kept being this lackadaisical, they had a good chance.

"Again, Bayleef! Give it everything you've got, he's got to be worn down by now! And keep on your toes for the counter-attack!"

Bayleef powered up and spewed out a huge ball of energy, then jogged out of the way when Clodsire sent out a little jet of poison.

"Great!! Again, Bayleef, you can do it!"

From her side of the battlefield, Rika's voice came as cool and collected as ever.

"Attack if you see an opening, Clodsire, but don't stress it if you don't."

Flummoxed, Laurel looked to the other trainer. She demanded,

"Are you even taking this battle seriously?"

Her arms crossed, Rika quirked a smile.

"Of course. I take every battle seriously. Gotta rep to uphold, after all."

Laurel stared at her a few moments, trying to figure out if she was being honest. She looked to the battle, where Bayleef was still dodging Poison Stings and spitting out her own Energy Balls. She was fighting on like a real trooper, but the ranger could tell she was really starting to tire from the poison that was seeping into her leaves. Meanwhile, Clodsire was still taking moves like a massive sponge, somehow. Unbothered, moisturized, happy . . .

Laurel looked back to Rika, finally realizing why the woman looked so calm and relaxed. It wasn't because she didn't care about the outcome of this battle.

It was because she knew she was in perfect control here.

Laurel felt a chill.

"Bayleef--"

A notification chirped from Laurel's smartphone, interrupting her. She glanced down at her phone, seeing her sync stone was glowing. Her sync move was finally ready.

Excited, she touched the stone, pointing and calling out,

"Bayleef, Grass Beam!! Let's DO IT! Uh--"

Bayleef looked up to her, but she was panting and swaying on her little feet. A few seconds later, she collapsed.

Laurel groaned, setting her phone back down.

"N-never mind . . ."

She approached her pokemon and kneeled down, patting her head gently and then returning her to her pokeball.

"Thank you, Bayleef. Rest now."

She stood back up and turned to the other trainer, smiling ruefully.

"That was incredible . . . I can't believe how tough Clodsire is. We were throwing everything we had at it, and he barely seemed bothered!"

The pokemon in question had gone back to wallowing in the mud, wriggling playfully like some kind of weird puppy. Rika nodded.

"That's Clodsire for ya, he's a hardy one. Cool as a cucumber, too. And the calmer he is, the more hits he can take."

Laurel commented quietly,

"So that's why you weren't in any hurry to counter-attack."

Rika chuckled,

"Yeah, no need to do that when your opponent will wear themselves out first. Clodsire's very easygoing, and he battles best when he stays true to that. So I don't try to rush 'em, I've just learned to embrace it."

"Hmm . . . it's good you've figured out what works best for him."

Rika flashed her a grin.

"It works great for me, too! I've learned a lot from him about how to loosen up and not stress things in life. Hard to be stressed around this silly goober, anyway."

Clodsire wagged his fat tail and smiled up at Rika with a look of pure love.

"Aww. Well, it was very nice to meet you and Clodsire. Thanks so much for the battle!" Laurel said, reaching out her hand. Rika shook it, answering,

"Likewise. You and Bayleef have some real spunk."

Laurel noticed the symbol emblazoned on Rika's fancy black gloves as she shook her hand.

"You have such stylish gloves! Is that some Paldean brand-name?"

She seemed amused.

"Not exactly. It's the symbol for the Paldea League."

Laurel's brow wrinkled.

"The Paldea League? Wait . . . you mean the Paldea Pokemon League?"

Maybe it was fan merch. She didn't just battle a gym leader, surely . . .

"Yep. I'm one of their E4."

Laurel felt her soul exiting her body. She screeched,

"E4?!?"

To Rika's credit, she didn't even flinch at Laurel's shocked outburst-- just continued to look faintly amused. Laurel carried on,

"Y-you can't be serious?? You're-- you-- why--"

She paused, taking in a steadying breath,

"Why on earth would an E4 member want to battle with someone like me?!"

Rika's amused expression immediately dropped into a frown.

"What do you mean by that?"

She swallowed.

"U-uh, I just mean . . . I'm, I'm just some nobody around here! Some of the strongest trainers in the world are gathered in Pasio right now, I'm sure there's dozens and dozens of more interesting people for somebody of your caliber to battle!"

Rika dropped a hand on Laurel's shoulder. She chuckled,

"Hey, give yourself a little credit! That was a good match. 'Sides, not every battle has to be super serious or hyper competitive to be fun, right?"

Laurel glanced away, mumbling,

"I-I guess . . ."

Rika gave her a shoulder a squeeze before releasing her and agreeing,

"Yeah!"

Laurel muttered,

"Geez, no wonder I couldn't win. And you were just using Mud Slap and Poison Sting . . . there's no way that's your usual moveset, is it?"

Rika shoved her hands in her pockets and answered casually,

"Mmm, I might be using a scaled-back moveset for all my Pasio battles."

A handicap. Of course.

"Now I feel even sillier . . ."

The E4 member shrugged.

"No reason to. I can promise you're far from the only person on this island to lose to a Mud Slap Clodsire. Don't stress it."

Laurel gazed at her a few moments, sensing how sincere she was. She glanced down to Clodsire, who was rolling around in the mud without a worry in the world.

She smiled.

"Yeah, okay. Thanks, Ms. Rika."

"Just Rika. I can't stand any stuffy formalities. And hey, it was nice getting to know you a bit. Maybe we can do this again sometime."

[hyenahunt]

Saga: Rivals - 31

Writer: Akira

Season: Winter

Characters: Jun, Seiya, Hokuto, Jin, Hiyori

Proofreading: 310mc (JP) & hyenahunt (ENG)

Translation: kotofucius

Hiyori: Ahaha, you were such a lovely little boy, Jun-kun! Well, but the current you also has your cute sides ♪

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Reverse Live Stage

Jun: Now that I’ve been freed ever so slightly from my parents’ curse, I'm gonna walk forward with my own life. And by taking down Sagami Jin today, I'll gain even more momentum.

I’m all pumped up and raring to go~ Winning this'll be a cinch ♪

Seiya: Fufu. I do beg your pardon, but I’m afraid that will be difficult.

Jun: …Sorry?

Seiya: If I were to summarize that video, or well, how it seemed to our audience due to the convenient editing, perhaps it'd be along the lines of how...

Sagami Jin-kun, the Super Idol who once had the world wrapped around his little finger, had a rival. And now, here is the son of that very rival — Sazanami Jun-kun, of Lilith.

Hokuto: That’s… well, that’s just a fact, isn’t it?

Seiya: It is indeed. The video included some cuts from back then too; and perhaps because this Project-Saga concert is all about reviving retired idols…

It was met with an incredibly good reception from the audience.

Jin: Watching old videos of myself was awfully humiliating for me, though?

Ugh, my lines were so grating they set my teeth on edge… I was internally screaming at my past self the whole time. What kinda living hell did I get myself into?

Seiya: Fufu. Oh, you’ll survive. It made for some fantastic promotion for Rain-bows, didn't it?

The video showed your brilliant figure as you performed so many great feats — A given, of course, as the shows from that time were produced for that purpose in the first place.

Even those who have forgotten must’ve been reminded of just how amazing the very Jin-kun that stands before them was.

As a result, you’ll naturally gain an increased amount of votes.

And at the same time, Jun-kun must’ve looked like… a boy raised with the greatest admiration for Jin-kun, his father’s rival, one aspiring to follow in his footsteps.

After all, we added some childhood shots of Jun-kun singing to Jin-kun's poster while he gazed intently at it all the while.

To any outsider, he’s practically all over Jin-kun.

Hiyori: Ahaha, you were such a lovely little boy, Jun-kun! Well, but the current you also has your cute sides ♪

Jun: Guh… I feel like I just experienced a living hell, too~ To think that videos from that time not only exist but got showcased in front of so many people... This has gotta be the most embarrassing moment of my life.

Seiya: But weren't they just so heartwarming?

Hocchan, my wife has many similar moments of you preserved as videos, so should you ever want them played during a concert just like tonight, let me know anytime.

Hokuto: Don’t you worry, because that will never happen. Actually, just get rid of them. I hate that there's even a possibility that you might use them like this someday.

Seiya: Oh, we aren’t getting rid of anything. They’re precious memories, you see.

But in any case, how it looks to the audience is that Jun-kun so ardently admired Jin-kun that he decided to be an idol.

Your parents may have apologized many times in the video, but to anyone besides us, who already know of the circumstances, the editing made it so that no viewers would understand just what it was about...

It only seemed as if your father was apologizing to you for being a lesser idol than Jin-kun.

Your parents started crying at some point, too, but it only seemed as if they were so very proud of their son who grew beyond their own achievements… and those tears were, therefore, ones of joy.

You understand now, yes? What I just did was make a charming little tale out of the harrowing life you’ve led up until now.

Rather than your grudges, nor your parents' forceful coercion, it was your supposed admiration for Jin-kun that I turned into your reason for becoming an idol.

Jun: Turned, huh… Is it really gonna be okay when the actual truth’s completely different~?

Jun: …Well, no one’s gonna be happy if we ever laid the whole truth bare.

I’m not asking for pity from the world or anything, though. All I wanna do is overcome the wall that stands in front of me.

Jin: Hey now, don’t glare at me while saying that… C'mon, you admire me, right~? It'd make my day if your eyes could sparkle a lil' more when ya look at me.

Jun: Goddamn. …Ugh, in any case, what exactly is all this for?

I'm real thankful that you didn’t make a nasty villain out of anyone, including my old man, but there’s gotta be some kinda vital reason you went to all these lengths, right?

Seiya: Correct. How about I give you a hint, then? There's no time for me to explain in length, so please think it through on your own.

Ultimately, this is all for the sake of balance. And just as I said at the start, I've wanted to make Jun-kun into the very embodiment of the name Lilith.

Can you predict the rest?

Hokuto: No, I can’t. Just what are you doing, Father?

Seiya: I've already answered that, too. In this kingless era, there is no meaning in winning by a landslide.

All that will achieve is reverse things back to a former era, and I wouldn’t like that to happen, either.

At the same time, I can’t have the situation so spectacularly reversed on me, either. I cannot allow there to be an overwhelming victory that would completely cripple the defeated.

After all, I want to continue surviving on, so that I may become a supporting role for the future you’ll all bring about.

Now, the “reverse” in Reverse Live will refer to neither the reversal of time nor the situation. [1]

I will wash it clean from any sense of those meanings so that it may very well have been chosen purely for the sound of it.

And if I could sing until the end and welcome a happily-ever-after with a smile… Then there will be nothing else I would wish for. My job will be done.

Hokuto: …?

[ ☆ ]

✦✦✦✦✦

"Reverse" (リバース) in Japanese is pronounced the same as "rebirth", so throughout the chapters there is some ambiguity on which meaning the name has. Incidentally, the official English name according to ! appears to be Rebirth Live....

← prev ✦ all ✦ next →

[slifarianhawk]

Chapter 37: an old grudge

I stalked through the caves. Slowly following Excella with my hand on my samurai edge. Jill and Gale walked beside me.

Albert's voice rang out in my mind, "Take Jill and Gale with you to the meet-up. I don't want Arias to try and take you away from me again, dearheart. Not to mention the natives are less than friendly."

I stare at the heavy ring on my finger. No way in hell was I about to let that happen again.

"Pay attention, you three!" Excella snapped as I sent Gale off to find a good sniping post, "We need to try and mend our relationship with Mr. Arias. He is one of our best buyers and one of our major clients!"

I felt a growl building in my throat. Arias, the fact I would have to play nice with him left a bitter taste in my mouth. Not only for the fact he saw me be an utter embarrassment to Albert by being captured by the B.S.A.A. but I think he was one of Sergei's suppliers. I'm not too sure on that one, though maybe I'd ask. There was also the fact he tried to kidnap me as well. 

I felt a buzzing on my neck, "My comm is going off."

Excella sighed and walked ahead.

"Pheonix here," I said pressing the speaker on my choker.

"No need for codenames with me, my precious lotus," Albert said, his voice echoing through the comms.

"Wesk," I sigh hesitantly scratching the back of my neck, "are you sure me being here is the best idea? I feel it could lead to trouble the last time. The last time I saw him I was our daughter now I'm your wife and partner."

"Don't sell yourself short my dear. Just be your usual cheery self, my love. Just reintroduce yourself as who you truly are." He said a slightly sour note to his tone of voice.

"Of course, my treasure. I shall" I smiled his voice giving me confidence as I heard a chuckle over the line.

Ugh, the fucking mushroom!

"Galeforce! Are you in position?" I snap.

He laughed almost shouting over the comms, "Of course, I'm in fucking position! What do you think I am a dead pigeon!"

Sighing I groan, "Don't listen to mine and Wesker's conversations over comms."

"Now now boss, don't let me blow away the romance." Game said cocking his kar98.

"Tabitha let's hurry. Excella is already at the rendezvous." Jill said behind her mask and cloak. 

"Right. Love you Wesk see you in a moment." I said hanging up the comms and marching on.

Within five minutes we were at the dock. I watched as Irving pulled in with a certain man with white hair. His minions are beside him. I was paranoid something was going to happen. I just felt it deep inside.

"Ah lady Excella, I see Dr. Wesker didn't escort you this time, " Arias said kissing her hand.

"He is making sure everything is perfect for your visit Glen." She said smiling.

"And who are these lovely people with you, Excella? One is certainly familiar." He asked motioning to me and Jill.

"One is the new bodyguard that Wesker assigned to me. The other is..."She started to stammer.

I quickly bow slightly,  "My apologies lord Arias, we have indeed met before although I was reticent about my true identity. When we last met I was using the identity of my deceased daughter,  Alistar Lancaster."

"Ah yes, I remember you now. You were captured by the B.S.A.A were you not? How ever did you manage to escape?" He asked eyeing my form suspiciously.

"Escape would be the incorrect term. They let me go under the UN's orders. As you have your resources, I have mine. If you would allow me the honor of reintroducing myself, I would be most grateful." I said pushing my loose hair back.

"Please indulge me. What is your actual name?" He said facing me completely now.

"My full name is Tabitha Elise Redfield Wesker. I am the matron of the Phoenix Corps., head of security, and the wife of Albert Wesker." I bowed fully this time my mid-length hair draping my body.

"So I tried to capture Wesker's wife?" He said in a stunned tone of voice, looking paler than he did when he arrived.

Raising my body I had a gentle smile on and with a lie on my lips I spoke,  "I harbor no ill will towards you hun."

Taking a moment to examine me, Arias faced his minions and lowered his hand, "Diego, Maria stand down we are among kindred spirits here."

The girl as well as the masked B.O.W relaxed in expression. I turned on my comms and looked down the dock. A certain mushroom perched atop a shack his scope shining in the firelight.

"Stand down galeforce, turns out I was just paranoid," I spoke to the choker speaker.

A loud groan rang from the comms as Gale jumped down from the little shack to the dock, "You need to get that in check boss. Can't be a walking ball of paranoia forever."

"Who is this gentleman?" Arias asked walking up to me. 

"This is Galeforce, my guard. He is also my best sniper. " I say escorting Mr. Arias toward the cargo elevator.

"You had a sniper trained on me? Clever girl you are Alistar, I mean lady Tabitha." He said walking beside Excella.

"My apologies, my husband was worried an incident would occur and this assuaged him," I state spotting a figure in a black trench coat ahead of me.

"You are quite right Glen our lady is as smart as her husband," Irving said nasally.

"With the B.S.A.A. temporarily off my trail mine and my husband's plans are more likely to proceed without a hitch," I say walking up behind Albert and stroking his well-defined neck.

"For you to be so trusting of me after I had four of my trained soldiers train automatic weapons on you. It is quite impressive." Arias said as Albert faced him.

"She has more training than even I do Glen. She is a fine gem amongst all the common trash we have for soldiers.  Also, welcome to our home." Albert says cordially offering his hand. This action surprises me. He despises most touch. He wasn't enjoying this just like me. It reminded me of the old Umbrella balls we were forced to attend as researchers.

"Dr.  Wesker,  thank you for having us. After all the bloodshed last time, I believe it is best if we bury the hatchet." Arias said taking Albert's hand and giving it a firm shake.

"So long as you don't try to kidnap my lotus again.  I believe we shall be fine." He said placing a gentle kiss on my forehead.

"Of course and please allow me to apologize, Lady Wesker.  I should not have been so bold as to assume someone as fine as you weren't already taken." Arias said motioning his crew to board the freight elevator.

As I board I think about Alistar and Sergei growling, "If I had wanted everyone to know who I was it would have been known. After all, parading around as one's dead daughter isn't the best for one's sanity. I had planned to stay as her awhile longer however Ms. Gionne found her original grave and I had to alter my plans." I sigh placing my head on Albert's chest.

"It's always devastating when we lose family. How old was she?" Arias asked looking at me and Albert.

"She died not even a month after her twenty-second birthday. Killed by my uncle, her great uncle.... our commanding officer at the time.... Vladimir Sergei." I spoke growling when I said the bastard's name.

Albert lightly draped an arm around me when I noticed the masked B.O.W. staring at the girl with a sorrowful expression in its eyes. they were father and daughter more than likely. I felt a ripple of sorrow.

"He killed her right before my eyes and walked away laughing.... she bled out in my arms. She died getting me Umbrella's entire intel network and our new computer system. My U.B.C.S. agent I'd was seven hundred forty-eight. Sergei's right-hand slave to say sadly, his prized bitch."

Arias put his hand up, "I thought I recognized you the last time we saw one another. I'm surprised you didn't recognize me. I was the one who supplied the Russian base with weaponry. I remember when I met the infamous Agent Seven forty-eight and her prodigy student One Zero forty-nine. How he described you as what you just called yourself and the other a perfect follower. He went into..."

"I would stop there Glen. My wife is a very easy-going and forgiving woman who has almost limitless patience. But trauma is a cruel mistress who should not be pushed especially when it comes to Sergei." Albert said in a dark menacing voice.

"My apologies lady Tabitha. I did not mean to cause any offense." Arias backpedaled sincerely.

With a sigh, I step away from Albert and shake my head, "There is no offense Arias and I must apologize.  I don't remember you. You see Sergei installed technology onto my spinal cord creating what is known as a sleeper agent. I have holes in my memories from October ninety-eight to February two thousand and three.  The activating phrase was prized bitch in Russian.  I even almost killed Albert here while I was activated. I live through them when my mutations deactivate. I dread the day I relive her death."

"I understand, my wife died in front of me. I couldn't imagine having your daughter die in your arms. My condolences, was she yours as well Dr. Wesker?" Arias asked as the elevator arrived.

"Yes, she was. She was our firstborn although we had to give her up. I wasn't there for Tabitha when she passed. If I knew what Sergei had done there would not have been a corpse, but a pile of ground flesh." Albert growled out.

"Deep breath my treasure, we can't let old grudges be it from our past or with ourselves, rule our lives," I say reaching up and stroking his hair.

"You are immensely wise lady Tabitha," María said.

"Please let us dispense the formalities.  Tabitha is formal enough." I said leading everyone onto the elevator and pressing the down button as I stood beside my husband.

As we descended Albert moved to the front of the moving freight elevator placing a gloved hand on my back "Now dearheart please introduce and detail your research to Mr. Arias."

"Yes show us what I have given you hasn't been a waste," Excella said snobby like.

"As you wish my treasured god." I look up at him ignoring Excella, "Mr. Arias if you would, please lend me your complete and undivided attention. Allow me to walk you through my gift to this disappointment of a world, The Angelis Virus."

I smile wide and bright. Wicked thoughts filled my head and that smile turned into a smirk. Albert stared a me a proud smile on his face. He was showing me off like a prized jewel and I was on cloud nine.

Hey everyone slifarianhawk here and we are moving decently ahead the next chapter is going to be a decent length. So be prepared my dearhearts. The next chapter will be out within the week. Until then my name is Silfarianhawk and I'm not so far away.

[mirikitakato]

[Translation] Halloween 2023 - A capricious love for an endless night: Episode 9

Bradley: Damn…what ‘cha doin’? Go play somewhere else if ya want to play with water.

Cain: Bradley! Something is hiding in this village. A strange child with black hair and golden eyes...

Bradley: ...... Ah, that explains the strange feeling I've been getting. It's affectin’ the Sage. Hey, get a grip!

[Bradley slaps Akira’s back]

Akira: ...Ugh!

Owen: Look, even Sir Knight is like that.

[Owen slaps Cain’s back]

Cain: Ouch! Why me too? You don't have to hit me on the back!

Owen: You were a bit dizzy, weren't you? Be grateful.

Akira: ….W-what? What did I just...?

Bradley: Oh, you're back.

Cain: I'm glad...Akira, are you okay?

Akira: Y-yes...

Bradley looked back in the direction where the boy disappeared, ignoring us who seem to have returned to our senses.

Bradley: Didn’t those humans said he sometimes appears as a beautiful boy. Guess that’s on point.

Owen: Look like it. Seriously, this world doesn't need three of those pretty faces.

Cain: You guys...Do you know something about that child?

Bradley: What, you still haven't realized?

Owen: That's Thewlis disguising as a human.

Figaro: Sage.

Lennox: Your clothes are wet. Did something happen?

Akira: Figaro, Lennox too...

Bradley: A Thewlis appeared. And it even went to the trouble of taking the form of a kid who looks like Snow and White.

Owen: It must have something it wants to draw attention to, doesn't it? It even went so far as to choose a human – the Sage, and try to charm them.

Figaro:……. I see. I thought it was strange that the wind was restless, and now I understand why the whole village is in a daze.

White: Ah, right. It must have come to show off its power.

White, who had just crossed the bridge with Snow and Oz behind him, agreed with Figaro's words.

At that moment, raindrops began to fall from the dark sky, one by one.

Cain: It's dark, but the sky is clear...

Oz: The land spirits are reacting. To welcome what's coming.

Snow: Everyone, it was indeed the right decision to come here today. We are about to witness something wonderful. Look over there.

Bright-haired man: W-what is that...?

Short-haired man: Something is approaching from the village entrance...

As the murmur of the gathered villagers grew, something shimmery can be seen between the falling rain in the direction Snow is pointing. Her outline, faintly translucent in the darkness of the night, shone with an ethereal light, like the first hint of dawn breaking through the inky blackness.

Akira: The lights of the village reflect off its scales, making it shimmer like twinkling stars. That is...

Emerging from the twilight haze, a figure materialized. Ethereal and majestic, it brought to mind a beautiful morning light.

This strange creature resembled a large fox. A long, flowing tail swayed behind it, and its fur shimmered with scales that seemed to catch the fading light of dusk, transforming it into a mesmerizing display.

Snow: This one is a female Thewlis.

White: Indeed, she is a beauty.

Cain: That's the Thewlis…is it different from the one that lives in the spring in this village?

Akira: I heard that the one in the spring is male. So, this is...

Snow looked up, his hand reaching out to catch the raindrops that streamed down like silver threads.

Snow: Thewlis can only live in water. Therefore, it is said that they only travel on the ground on rainy days... However, during weddings, it will rain even on clear days.

White: It seems that after a long time, a mate has appeared for the one living in the spring of the village.

The female Thewlis moved slowly and gracefully towards the village center.

With each step, a sprinkle of gold dust danced in the air, a mesmerizing display that captivated everyone. The sight was both fantastical and majestic, the beauty of the creature holding everyone in its thrall.

Lennox: The sheep are reacting too... I wonder if there is some kind of connection between animals.

Owen: I guess. Not many magical creatures can control spirits and change the weather, even if only for a short time.

Bradley: I like this better than when they were dressed like kids. Her scales can be sold for a lot.

Lennox: Bradley...

Bradley: Don't worry, I won't. I'm not that rude to interfere with a wedding, even if it's a beast.

Oz:….... The male Thewlis living in the spring was originally lacking in the power of charm. However, it seems that he has regained his power without knowing it.

Akira: Eh, really...?!

Owen: Sage, you were completely smitten just now. You looked at that guy's eyes when he was in human form and acted like you had taken a love potion.

Bradley: You were stumblin’ around and wading into the water, almost a drowned rat.

Figaro: Oh? If you had called me, I would have taken care of you.

Lennox: Dr. Figaro, weren’t you suffering from leg cramps until just a moment ago?

Figaro: Oh, come on, don't mention it.

Cain: So that's what that feeling was... I was a little dizzy too, to be honest.

Akira: S-sorry...for the unsightly scene.

Snow: Hohoho. We too wanted to see how flustered you'd get. But you, from the moment you were near the spring, you felt it a little, didn't you?

White: You said that when you licked the honey candy, it smelled like flowers and fruit. That was the scent of Thewlis' pheromones. I was going to make this scene a surprise, so I stayed silent.

Akira: Oh, is that… I remembered the twins were talking mischievously in the parlor a few days ago. They said that there was something good to see in the village, but they wouldn't tell what it was.

Akira: So the “good thing” you were talking about... is the Thewlis’ wedding?"

Snow: Indeed. It is also said to be a sign of good fortune. We were surprised too when we saw this scene for a moment while divining.

White: Is it the influence of the Great Calamity, or a trick of fate...? Or maybe both, I don't know, but the spring is now filled with an overwhelming power of charm.

Snow: This’s also a kind of miracle.

Later, the female Thewlis reached the largest spring in the back of the village.

The surface of the spring rippled without wind. Something rose from the water's depths, its form wavering like a mirage.

Akira: Is that the male Thewlis that lives in this spring…?

Snow: Yes. We hardly ever saw him either.

White: Once the two of them land on the same surface, the wedding ceremony will start.

Snow: Well, let's watch from the best seats. The Thewlis’ wedding is a beautiful sight.

Prompted by Snow and White, we had settled back down on the terrace-like spot by the edge of the spring where we had been relaxing earlier.

The other wizards naturally followed suit. Some sat down, some leaned against pillars, and some leaned their shoulders against trees a little further away.

As everyone watched the spring, the two Thewlis floating on the surface rubbed their noses together.

And then, as if dancing, two Thewlis frolicked and waved their fluffy tails. Each time, gold dust danced and sparkled in the dark scene.

A veil of rain draped the sky, whispering secrets to the earth. Amongst its threads, a celestial dance unfolded - countless stars of gold dust, shimmering and serene.

Akira: Beautiful...It's like stars are falling all over the dark sky...

Lennox: You can see the light particles shining through their translucent bodies. It looks like they might just melt into the night.

Cain: Yeah...the falling light particles will disappear if you touch them. It's like a sea of twinkling stars stretching across the night sky, but I think it's actually daytime now, this gives me a strange feeling.

It seemed like a truly special sight, like a curtain of Thewlis’ magic descending over the village, something that could only be seen on this night.

Snow: Ah, it's so fleeting, delicate, and beautiful.

White: Indeed, it's truly a momentary spectacular view.

Figaro: ……I agree, I suppose it was worth the trip.

Owen: Well, I guess it's okay to see them once in a while.

Bradley: If only there was some wine. Should’ve pinched some on the way here.

Cain: …..I wonder where these two go after the wedding ceremony is over. Will they both live in this spring? Or will they go somewhere else?

Oz: Neither. Once Thewlis find their mate, their lives come to an end.

Akira & Cain: Eh.....?

Startled by Oz's words, the beautiful scene unfolding before my eyes suddenly felt distant.

Akira: No way... After all this time, they finally found each other. And now, they're going to disappear soon?

Cain: But they've only been together for a moment...

Snow: Don't worry. This world is full of wonders and miracles. Every time a wedding ceremony ends, two new fated Thewlis are born in water sources somewhere in this world.

White: They will eventually meet again after a long period of time. They were also born under the same star, far apart from each other.

The twins, their eyes etched with the stories of a thousand joys and sorrows, blinked slowly as they gazed upwards at the two Thewlis playing with each other.

Snow: It’s said that this spring is the gateway to the underworld. Such a beautiful end to life and a new beginning is not something you see every day.

Akira: End and Beginning...

The two Thewlis, dancing playfully above our heads, did not look like they were about to end their lives.

Their scales and eyes shimmered as they intertwined their tails, sharing the joy of their reunion and bidding farewell.

It was a dreamlike scene that seemed to last forever.

Eventually, the two Thewlis, side by side, kick off the water's surface and soar high into the sky.

At the peak of their ascent, the male Theslis seemed to glance back at us slightly.

With a flick of his gleaming scales and a graceful sweep of his long tail, rain erupted from the sky, then intensified into a downpour.

Akira: Wow….

As if someone had cast a spell, the raindrops didn't touch our skin, but bounced and disappeared in front of us.

Eventually, the rain subsided, and the darkened sky began to brighten.

A rainbow appeared.

A strange sight, as if day and night were reversed.

At the edge of the sky, dawn was breaking, as if to bless this wonderful new beginning.

Akira: (…..It's strange, but looks like a new day has begun somewhere high up in the sky...)

Cain: ...Have they been born again? The new pair of Thewlis that have inherited the fate of those two. Even though we don't know how many hundreds of years it will take...they will surely meet again, won't they?

Akira: ...That's right. Although it was a fleeting encounter… But maybe, it wasn't a sad farewell.

Bathed in the afterglow of a sky painted with twilight hues, I dwelled on the dreamlike quality of their meeting. A soft splash broke the spell, a ripple whispering across the silent face of the spring.

Something was washed up on the edge of the rock face.

Akira: An old...teapot...?

The familiar object looked like the copy of the teapot that Snow had shown me earlier, or so I thought.

As Snow caught sight of it, he clapped his hands as if he had just remembered something.

Snow: Ah, I remember...!

Figaro: What? Why did you suddenly raise your voice?

Snow: It's about this teapot. Just before I went away from this village, I had a big party...I got drunk and accidentally dropped it in the spring.

Akira: So, it's...

Snow: Indeed. It's the other teapot that I lost in my youth.

Snow picked up the pot and gently stroked it with his gentle hands.

I wonder if the Thewlis had been protecting Snow's lost item until today.

Snow: What a sweet little thing.

As Snow murmured lovingly, I felt as if the spring responded with a soft "pooch" sound.

When we returned to the village after the rain, there was something sparkling on the path where the Thewlis had walked.

Mufflered woman: Sand? No, this is...

Hooded man: It’s gold…A path of gold dust stretches across this area...

Akira: Amazing...The snow and gold are mixed together, and it's sparkling!

Cain: This one is huge! Like jewels...

Bradley: Hey, isn't that a Thewlis scale?

Figaro: Oh, you're right. There are a few mixed in among the gold grains.

Snow: The mythical beast that brings prosperity... This is a blessing left behind by the Thewlis.

White: With every step they took, the gold dust shimmered, like a golden cloak being laid out. The scales can be used as protective charms. And with this much gold, the village will prosper for a while.

Lennox: That beast...he seemed to turn and wave his tail at us one last time. As if he was saying goodbye. If he left behind something like this, then this village, where it lived for so long, must have been a special place to it.

Figaro: Well, if that's the case, he is quite a polite beast. I guess he also feels he owes a debt to the twins.

Bradley: What a great parting gift. With this much, we could probably take a little without getting caught.

Owen: I agree. It's not as valuable as mana stones, though.

Cain: Hey, don't take too much. This is for the villagers.

Akira: ……..

Snow: Sage, my dear, what's wrong? You seem a bit down.

As everyone else was interested in the gold dust, I turned back to the spring.

I thought back to what I heard before coming here and after arriving in this village.

Akira: That spring is the lifeline of the villagers, isn't it? It's always been maintained without freezing or drying up, thanks to Thewlis... Does that mean that now the Thewlis is gone, this village could be lost at any time?

Snow:...Well, yes, I guess so. It's just the way things are.

Snow nodded rather casually, almost indifferently.

I watched the villagers returning one after another from the spring, curiously scooping up gold dust and holding it up to the sky. I turned back to White and saw him gently stroking the teapot that he had tucked under his arm, smiling faintly.

Episode 8 | Episode 10

[valentineforlemonandcherry]

I just read the latest chapters in one go and I think I need a long time to process them. (Spoilers for chapters 36 & 37 underneath the cut)

I NEED TO STOP BEING ATTACHED TO YOUR OCS BECAUSE TRISTAN AND ROWAN INDEED DID NOT GET A HAPPY ENDING

Tristan's death scene was perfectly well written and it makes so much sense with his plotline, but it still broke my heart.

And then Rowan remembering him and calling him an older brother ugh

AND ROWAN (some thoughts I had while reading coming up)

Rowan suddenly sat up. Commitment and honesty… towards what is most important to me… Oh, Rowan, what are you going to do?

Rowan entered the room. He walked in with such purpose that everyone stopped talking and looked at him. Of course, he does :)

And while I can’t pretend that your – your preference for someone else doesn’t affect me, I can work through that with you, as long as ultimately, you really want to be with me.” Okay, that really hurt. like a lot...

“Let’s get married.” ROWAN!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

“Oh, Rowan, of course,” you murmured lovingly. I was actually very excited about this :')

Rowan’s eyes slowly dimmed. After a moment, his hand slipped off of your shoulder. “Oh.” NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. This actually made me sit up. I was hoping she would say yes 💔

“But not your love for forever,” Rowan said. “Not even for much longer. In fact, not after… this moment.” ROWAN NOOOOOOOOO!!! I know this wasn't an easy decision for him and I know his heart also broke 🥺 I want to give him a big hug AND WHEN HE LEFT that made a few tears fall onto my pillow (but I'm very sentimental... as you can probably tell)

“Congratulations!” but Remus swore that instead of sounding more genuine, he was simply beginning to sound more Irish. Hahaha at least this line did not make me cry

AND CLIFFHANGER???!!!!!!!

I wish things would be different for Rowan and my girl. But I also love Remus and Lovely. However, I will really miss Rowan and her relationship. How are you such an amazing writer?? Seriously, I absolutely love your blog. I check it daily, every morning and every night (I'm not going to lie, multiple times a day because the stupid notifications don't work). Your writing is just fantastic. I adore your series, and there are no words to completely convey how I cling to every single word you brilliantly crafted because of how much I adored the lovely stories you brought to life. And you're OCs!!! You manage to bring to life these characters that aren't part of the Harry Potter world and you do it so well. Their backgrounds, personalities, and feelings are meticulously written so that I feel like they are actually real. It is truly remarkable, and your writing is mesmerizing. They bring me so much comfort, excitement, and love. I've been feeling this way since you first started writing and I don't think it will ever go away as you keep writing.  Every time  I read your stories, I get a flood of happiness even though you make me cry sometimes (that may be my own fault because I am a very emotional person). Your stories never cease to brighten my day. I honestly can't get enough of them. I'm always wanting more (which is why I will randomly reread old chapters) and I'm so very grateful for every chapter you so generously provide. Your stories are so beautiful and perfectly written. Thank you for everything!

-🦭

How to respond to such a wonderful comment?

First of all, thank you as always for reading my work, and thank you for telling me your reactions!

I’ll put the rest of my reply here to save space and avoid spoilers:

When I saw your comments about coming back to read the newest chapters after your exams, I did have a moment of thinking: Wow, these last chapters are where everything finally comes to a head and you’re going to end up reading them all at once. I hope it was still a good read. I was excited to finally release the last three chapters and these next two or three chapters, because they are chapters that I have held onto for so long.

On Tristan, I loved associating him with metal and clocks – very structured, powerful, sharp, unforgiving, and fair. Tristan’s journey and his relationship to his family and friends and also to magic was a bit obscure (because the story is told from Reader’s POV), but I had great fun building it up. I enjoyed writing about how Tristan comes to understand fate as responsibility in an empowering way (as opposed to seeing fate as a negation of free will and a purely negative thing.).

Tristan's darkness and Reader’s darkness mesh well together – mist, snow, fog, and lost ships – because there is a touch of the mythical in both of them and that mythical energy is sometimes the reason for their happiness and sometimes the reason for their depression. Relatedly, Cas is an amazingly gracious and resilient person, I think, and I felt for her character as I finished writing Tristan’s story. Also, Rowan and Tristan would have become inseparable brothers if they had had a chance to mature together. I honestly imagine that between the two of them, every fifteen or twenty years, they trade off on who is the "older" brother and who is the "younger" brother, so that they're always grumbling about one another, but they reach a point where they can't do without each other. The way they use magic indicates their connection and their differences, too - how Rowan manipulates magic to suit him, using the lightest of spells to do whatever he wants versus how Tristan follows the structures of deep, ancient magic and of metalwork and respects and follows those set rules, but both of them are phenomenal at magic and try to use magic to protect their loved ones. Again, the story is told from Reader's POV, so I don't linger too long on this, but Rowan losing Tristan is an overwhelmingly intense loss for him, and my sense is that Rowan himself hasn't even processed that yet.

On Rowan, I still don’t want to say too much, since Foxtail & Wolfsbane still has (at least a little) ways to go, but I will say that I felt a much stronger pull between Rowan and Reader than I initially anticipated. I ended up having to take out whole chapters in editing because I kept writing about the two of them and it became an absurd amount of writing focused solely on their interactions.

I loved reading your reactions to the proposal and break-up scenes. There was actually an alternative version of this scene that was focused more on why Rowan didn’t seem like the right partner for Reader, but I ended up thinking that that wouldn’t actually feel important to the Reader in the moment because she does love him. Instead, I shifted the focus to center more on their willingness to commit to each other, but the pain of that not being quite enough. Seeing your reactions, I think it was the right decision for me to focus the chapter on seeing Rowan trying to step up and Reader trying to meet him there, but ultimately, he knows her so well that she can’t cover up anything in her heart in front of him.

It was always important to me that the fact that they were best friends never got lost in their relationship. Rowan knows Reader far better than anyone else ever well and in a strange way, that contributed to why they separated the way they did. What struck me as sad, throughout their relationship but especially in that last chapter, is that I don’t think Reader knows Rowan as well as he knows her. She can’t read past his façade and see his vulnerabilities quite as well as he sees hers – and part of that is because she’s more independent and the other part of that is because Rowan has such a strong presence and persona of being someone who has it all and is so easy-going all the time that it’s easy to pretend like he isn’t just as vulnerable and lonely as Reader is, when we know he is.

Thank you so, so much for all of the love you give to my stories! It means so much to me that you enjoy them.  ♥ 

P.S. I wouldn't mind if you kept falling in love with my OCs, but y'know, I may be a little biased. Just maybe.

[theminoru]

Thank you.

[professorrw]

GN! Y/n who speaks russian, randomly talking to Nat or Bucky in Russian while glaring at someone else. "Why are we speaking Russian?" "Need to make it look like I'm crap-talking Steve." Also, may I be 👽 anon, if you do anons?

so so sorry it's taken so long to answer this!! I'm still trying to catch up with my requests 😭 and yes, you can be alien anon!

marvel masterlist

Title: Father Figure

Pairing: gender neutral reader x platonic Steve Rogers

Warnings: parent/child type of relationship, spoilers for Avengers Endgame, mentions of death

A/N: Requests open, check my request rules and who I write for that’s linked on my navigation! My taglist is open and I would love it if you would like, comment, and reblog!

You strolled over to Bucky and Natasha, glaring at Steve through the corner of your eye.

“What’s that look for?” Natasha asked.

“Not now,” you said in Russian. “Just talk to me.”

“In Russian?” Bucky raised an eyebrow at you.

“Yes.”

“And why are we speaking Russian?” Nat asked.

“I need to make it seem like I’m trash talking Steve.” You continued to glare at the Captain, who was stealing glances at you while he talked to Banner.

“Not this again,” Bucky sighed. He was of course going to be on Steve’s side about everything. “You can’t just ignore him every single time he scolds you.”

“I- ugh. I know,” you said, switching back to English.

“Y/n he just wants you to succeed. He took you in as his student and wants to teach you.” Natasha was right. Steve was just trying to help you. You were one of the youngest super soldiers that had been created and you were lucky to be rescued by the Avengers.

“Listen kid, don’t be so hard on him. He’s doing his best.” Bucky patted you on the shoulder and gave you an expectant look. You groaned but turned to go talk to Steve.

As soon as you had turned in his direction his eyes were on you. Bruce followed his line of sight and also saw you coming over, told Steve a quick goodbye and let you two be.

“Y/l/n,” the Captain said. He crossed his arms and waited for you to say something.

“Look I’m- I’m sorry I keep causing trouble.”

He sighed, “It’s alright. I’m sorry I was so harsh on you. But you know I wish you focused more and weren’t always trying to goof off when we’re training. You have so much potential y/n, and I want to see it go to good use.”

“I know, I know. I’ll try harder,” you conceded.

And that you did. Years later you would be grateful for how much hope Steve had in you, and his unrelenting will to make you the best you could be, not only combat-wise, but better as a person too. He was your role model, and after years of being under his wing, you started to think of him as a father figure. You never planned on telling him that, too embarrassed to admit it.

The world had other plans though. The final battle with Thanos ended with multiple casualties, leaving the Avengers, and the rest of the world grieving. You were never much of a religious person but you prayed to God before that fight that Steve would make it out.

You stood beside Bucky, watching as Steve stepped onto the machine that would take him through time to return the Infinity Stones.

“Ready to go,” Steve said.

“Alright.” Banner pressed some buttons and after a countdown, Steve disappeared. You waited for a few seconds, looking at Bucky and Sam.

“Where is he?” Bucky asked.

“I- I don’t-“ then you saw someone. You walked a few yards over to a bench where there was a man sitting. “Steve…?”

“Hello y/n,” he said. It was indeed Steve, just much older. His large muscles were gone, his skin hung and creased, and his hair was grey. He patted the spot next to him on the bench.

“What happened?” you asked, worried that the machine had malfunctioned. If it did, he didn’t seem too mad about it. In fact, he seemed happy.

“You see, I owed someone a dance,” he said, smiling fondly as he looked at nothing in particular.

“Peggy?” you asked. You had heard of her; Steve’s lost love from years ago.

He nodded. A few seconds later he reached down to a brown circular bag. “I have something for you.”

“Steve…” you said, trailing off when you realized what it was. It was his shield in pristine condition.

“I want you to have this. I think you’re ready.” He looked at you, old grey eyes crinkling at the corners and a wide smile on his face.

“I- I couldn’t possibly-“ you stuttered. Steve was asking you to become the next Captain America. You had been training beneath him for years and doing missions with the Avengers but you couldn’t take his place.

“Y/n yes you can. I want you to. You are ready. There will be people that oppose this but I’ll help you for as long as I can before I’m gone.”

Your nose burned and your eyes watered. When he’s gone, you thought. Your bottom lip quivered a little bit. The only father figure that you ever really had, and he was talking about dying. He was old now. He went back and lived the life he always wanted. You couldn’t fault him for that. He of all people deserved it.

His eyes were shiny as he opened his arms, welcoming you. “C'mon kid.”

You hugged him, breathing in the familiar scent of Captain America. He rubbed your back, “You got this.”

A few months went by and you kept constant contact with Steve, spending as much time with him as possible. A few days before he died you were sitting in his home eating lunch.

“I told Peggy about you,” he said.

“Really?”

“Mhm. We never had kids of our own so I told her about you. I know you aren’t biologically my kid but-“

You cut him off, “Steve I always thought of you as a father figure to me. I never had one growing up and then you found me and mentored me for eight years of my life. You’re always there for me… scolding me.”

”Hey now, sometimes you need it,” he chuckled.

“I know, I know.”

“You’ve grown up to be a great person y/n. I know you’ll do terrific things for the world.”

“I promise I will.”

That was the last meaningful conversation you had with Steve. Steve had left an impression on you that would last a lifetime. He had left an impression on the entire world.

[leiawritesstories]

What are you favorite qualities, traits, characteristics, of Aelin and Rowan??

🎅🎅🎄🎄

hi gifter :))) if you celebrate it, happy thanksgiving!!! this is an absolutely amazing ask, thank you so much

Aelin:

Her snark, for sure. Aelin's sass was one of the characteristics that drew me to her as a main character. Sure, snark doesn't fix all awkward situations, but who doesn't love sassy Aelin teasing Rowan?

Her willingness to sacrifice herself for her kingdom. Please don't come after me, I know and admit there are problems with her "I'll just sacrifice myself without telling anyone" strategies. But the way she grows devoted to her kingdom and reclaiming Terrasen's throne and fighting the Valg out of her world, even at the potential cost of her own life, is an admirable quality indeed.

Her badassery. I feel like we were ROBBED of the true extent of her skillset in canon. but this is why we have fanfic!!!! (highly recommend @heirofflowers Easier Than Lying for badass Aelin)

How her and Rowan's relationship develops in canon. It's just...it's real and raw and emotional and they both have a whole lot of healing they have to go through but I love how they grew through the story.

Her sense of justice. She's always going up against the forces of evil, whether they take the shape of demonic Valg or creepy assassin lords, and in fanfic, she's often depicted working against injustices she encounters in her life and world. The way Aelin is willing to fight for her rights and the rights of all the oppressed is just such a powerful trait.

Rowan:

His unwavering devotion. Yes, the blood oath and other magical bonds of various types did play into that, but his devotion to Aelin is the kind of constant, steady support that a blood oath only deepens. He is a male of his promises. We love this.

His teaching side. Grumpy as he might be about having to train a smart-mouthed, equally grouchy female, he gives his all to training Aelin, and we get the impression that this isn't his first time training a younger warrior. That he's trained younger legions before and their skill in battle has proved his prowess as a trainer. And this makes me firmly believe we were robbed of more scenes of Rowan training people. Namely, his kids and the youth of Terrasen.

Strong and silent and brooding as he might be, Rowan isn't afraid to speak up for what he believes in. He openly defies Maeve and the entire Cadre and basically anyone else who tries to tell him that believing in Aelin and her cause is futile and tells the consequences of his actions to go to hell. He might be a giant brooding Fae brute, but he's got a strong-minded side.

Again, his relationship with Aelin. They needed each other when they met, when both of them were closed off and brooding and stewing in all the memories of their pasts. The way they were able to open up to each other and share their hearts--and tattoos--is beautiful. And they do have their problems along the way, but that only accentuates the realism of their relationship.

"He's the Rowan Whitethorn!" yes, i'm a simp.

Ugh I'm sure I'm forgetting so much, but this is what I have in mind right now. thank you for the ask!!! i'm very grateful for you :)

[toaswife]

𝓑𝓮𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪 𝓟𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓮𝓬𝓽 𝓕𝓪𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻

- 𝑮𝒖𝒚 𝑨𝒗𝒂𝒓𝒊 𝑿 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓

Characters -

𝑳𝒖𝒄𝒊𝒇𝒆𝒓 - The first Child ( Mum's fav also called as Lil guy because he looks like guy)

𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 - The Second child who was born recently

𝑵𝒂𝒓𝒂 - MC

𝑮𝒖𝒚 - ML

𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒆: 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒄𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒈𝒖𝒚'𝒔 𝒑𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘"

The story starts in a dramatic way"

"Guy wanted a girl as his first child but it's A boy!

Guy : seriously 😒

Mc : It's not my fault

Guy : it's ok we'll try again

Mc : 👁️👄👁️ now!?Guy : nah let's *sigh* ugh wait Mc : Yea like maybe 7 years Guy : 👁️👄👁️💔 I .. I wait no i thought it's until he's walking

Mc : what obvi no I want my child to be grown enough that he can look after himself because I don't want him thinking he didn't get loved by us enough

Guy : f*ck this I want a girl!!!!"

"It's been 9 Years since Lucifer was born I am reading this book I received from qelsum it's a book on how to raise a daughter well I do hate him but I am grateful to him for this book it's really informative"

"Well he does have the knowledge afterall he grew up surrounding girls, he shouldn't have a problem dealing with a girl"

"Nara is in the last stage of pregnancy and and her delivery could be any time I for one have been curiously waiting"

"According to nara she told me it's a girl I am really happy because she was very sure it is"

The door opens I suddenly close my book and put it in the drawer

Nara : "Guy what are u doing?"Guy : " I should be asking that? you shouldn't be here taking rest is important "Nara : "I just came to see u, Well I know but I can't alway stay at the same place right"

Guy: " Still If you need anything Just call Me I would come right?"

Nara : "yeah But I can't alway relay on you I just came to check on little guy"Guy : " You worry way too much about him"

Nara : I can't help it.

Guy : anyways it's lunch time let's go Nara : okay Are u sure I ask her about the gender?

Nara : Yes, it's not like u guys have a Ultrasound test if u want a valid proof that is

Guy : A what?

Nara : A Ultrasound test is a type of test where the machine scans the Belly and shows u the baby in the moniter, it tells the health condition of the baby and the gender.

Guy : the human realm is indeed quite forward when it comes to Machines

I'll tell Nara to rest in the room while I'll bring her lunch

I go to the dining hall only to run into queen toria she is the third Consort queen and the mother of Zev, She is nicest one after mom

"Good Afternoon Your majesty"

"Good afternoon Guy.

you must be eagerly waiting for your daughter""I am indeed"

Guy : I have a favor To Ask You Your Majesty, Can you give me some tips on raising a daughter u have a Lil sis right and u know how to raise one?

Toria : sure, you have changed alot Guy.Guy : Well

Toria : Not that I blame you It's Probably Love's doing

Guy : Well I did because of Nara so I guess your right..Toria : alright back to the topic

Never scold ur daughter even if they do something wrong because they have a fragile heart and take things to their heart and always be kind and teach them the right way to do things even if they do it wrongly and they can be very demanding of course Guy : no issues I shall give them what she wants, Thanks

Roc : now what am I seeing here?

Guy: just some tips for my daughter

Roc : well u have grown up huh?

Guy : I did a long time ago

Toria : anyways that's so sweet of you to want a daughter

"Reminds me of your dad and mom they both wanted a daughter but sadly your mom died before that could happen"

"Oh" I said Because I didn't knew about it dad said he only wanted a boy so I'm suprised

Toria : Suprised at how I know this? It's because your dad and I are childhood friends I never expected to marry him

Guy : You did?

Toria : Yes I was A close Family friend and was close to your mom too I always supported her, but I never expected this, lts because of rahm all she cared was his attention and roc got irritated with her behaviour, Your dad is very partial to your mom which is probably why he doesn't like her, so he requested my family to marry him and he's been nice to me but I'm still sorry for thisGuy : I don't blame you plus it's not your fault, thanks for telling me

Toria : take good care of nara!

That Evening Nara said she was feeling pain and so I took her to the delivery room After An hour all the princes gather and we all wait Together It's midnight and I'm still waiting it's been way too long. When Lucifer was born it took 2 hours but Now I can't even count how many hours have gone by.

The doctor comes out with a grim expression, He tell us a shocking news"Your majesty I'm so sorry to tell but you have to choose between the child or the mother"

"What! I exclaimed is there no other way? What kind of doctor you are if you can't save the queen?"

"I'm So Sorry Your Majesty, Her Highness is barely able to stay awake and she has lost alot of blood the child is taking Alot of time to come out it's either u choose or u lose both of them Please we are trying our best right now"

''I can't believe this It's like a nightmare, You aren't serious are u?" it's like I'm on the verge of crying"

Tears start well to up in my eyes, Toa notices this"I'm going outside I have some work I'll comeback once I'm done" said Toa He signals the other princes too

It's nice that they are being considerate but now's not the time I don't care if they see me the way I am all matters is Nara That's when I See Toria and dad come Toria : Guy I think u need to understand her situation, not to mention she's a human her body runs on the terms of blood and it's necessary to her unlike us magic plays a vital role for us but for her it's her blood and heart not the magic

Guy : ....

Roc : I understand your pain guy I have gone through this but you have to accept this

Guy : ... "I'm at a loss for words the dream child I wanted could be here but her mom won't I can always get a baby girl but her mom won't, she's rare I love her I can't lose her she's way too important for me to lose, I just wanted a daughter because she'd look like her mom and I'd have two wonderful women infront of my eyes and enjoy this feeling but looks like it won't come true""For A moment I Could Understand Dad's Pain Which is probably why he lost his hope on love and told me woman are not important they are just a burden to us, Well I disagree But it feels like I can understand what he went through"

"That's when the princes return and look at me I have made my decision it's Nara I want to protect her, I gave my answer to the doctor"

Much to my surprise just after 5 min I hear a baby crying I'm shocked! What happened to nara... No it's not possible they can't do this!?

I immediately run inside the room and I can hear dad telling me not to but how can I not I love her I can't lose her This can't happen I won't let her!I rush inside to see her lying there with the most innocent face as I go next to her my tears start to fall on her pink cheeks and I say "Nara I love You Please Don't leave me! Forget about asking a daughter I won't ask u for anything please just come back to me don't leave me I can't live without you! You've become a vital part of my life, Please I'm begging you Nara!"

"My tears keep on falling that's when Nara opens her eyes And Suprise colours my face the doctor comes and tells me she fainted due to exhaustion And I feel embarrassed"

"The doctor tells me that The baby had a wonderful timing if she hadn't come out then they had to actually do it I'm soo happy that she's fine and the woman I love is fine"

"To be honest I feel like I have gone through sadness and happiness at the same time"

The princes congratulate me and the doctor comes asking all the princes to give blood for mc and I did of course I'm so happy that they did this for her I'm never gonna put her through this again I've learnt that You should cherish what u have sometimes it's good to take risk but not always"It's been A few months now from that day I am reading my book as usual while Nara is breastfeeding my baby girl"

Nara and I discussed the names for her we came with two names 1. Genevieve 2.GislleAlthough I would go for the first one the second one could be a nickname as well

Mc : I'm still thinking about another child

Guy : don't u dare I've already was on the verge to lose u i can't take anymore risks

Mc : seriously 😒Guy : yes that's it if u want another kid we can adopt there are many poor kids we can help them

Mc : 😒Well Your daughter is just like soo stubborn that she didn't come out until I was ont he verge of dying hmph

Guy : .... Well leave it will you Genevieve starts crying suddenly that's when I take her to the balcony

Nara : guy it's dangerous don't stand on the edge hold her tightly ok?

Guy : You worry alot I know I'm being very careful ( In fact I'm nervous I'm trying my best to hold her gently to make sure she doesn't feel hurt)"Look at the sky, she's stops crying immediately as I speak in a gentle tone it's pretty right? She replies ayayaahh Haha It's cute although she can't talk I feel like I can understand her very well"

~Meanwhile ~

Roc : Lucifer I'm tired Lucifer: grandfather I'm bored can u tell me more STORIES

ROC : ugh what did I get myself into geez if not for that baby

Lucifer: what are u talking tell me A STORY NOW!

Roc : right why don't we go look after ur sis Lucifer: sure ( a nice way to change topic not that I care my sis matters afterall)

Guy : dad what are u doing here?

Roc : came to look after my baby

Guy : when did she became ur baby huh?Roc : well I'll look after her u can look after Lucifer

Nara : right it's time for my boy to sleep mumma will tell ya a story

Lucifer: yess

Guy : how about we both look after her? Nara : well then good luck looking after my girl

Roc : i don't need luck I'll make her happy

Guy : u? Hah let's have compitition who makes my baby smile wins

Roc : sure!

Then here we have guy doing belly dance to make her laugh 😂 but doesn't work Roc trying make weird faces doesn't work either

Meanwhile

After 10 Mins

Lucifer: Maa I can't sleep without Genevieve.Nara: Oh alright let's go get her.

Nara : let me peek inside and see what they are doing!

Nara: 👁️👄👁️huh what are they doing??Laughing internally 😂Omg what did i just see i should never leave this father and son alone

That's when Lucifer enter the room

Guy : huh u haven't slept?

Lucifer: well I wanted to sleep besides my lil sis soo i came to take her, what are u guys doing acting like crazy

Nara : looks like they were trying to make her smile

Guy and Roc : .....

Lucifer: that's it? Imma show u how it's done! Lucifer goes near her and starts shaking her toy and teddy bear she immediately starts smiling

Lucifer: see it's that simple can't believe i actually saw u guys behaving like that are u guys really a royalty?

Nara : bursts into laughter

Guy and Roc : It's NOT SOMETHING TO LAUGH ABOUT! Guy : How long have u been here Nara

Nara : well I've seen everything

Guy and roc 👁️👄👁️

Roc : well.... Im tired I'm leaving bye..Guy : huh dad wait it's u who started this...

Nara: "smirks" nice belly dance 😏

Guy : ......Lucifer: dad should go and perform infront of everyone hahah

Guy : shut up! After both the kids sleep

Nara : ahaha I Still can't believe what u just did!

Guy : would you shut up already I'm not gonna let you sleep today as your punishment!

Nara : Huh? I was just joking it's was funny so... Guy : yeah Funny imma show u what it means to not sleep

Nara : uh shit now what .....

Guy : You aren't going anywhere that's for sure "scary smirk"

Nara : Uh looks like I'm doomed!

Guy : huh you aren't laughing anymore?Nara : well it's you well.... Nevermind I'm sleeping

Guy : as if I'll let you?

Nara : Looks Like I can't escape, Fine

Guy : Well Look at U Nara : WhateverThat's how they spent their night.

~ To be Continued ~

𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒖𝒔 : Nara Gets Pregnant Again after 9 years When Genevieve Turns 9 although Unexpected Guy was surprised and he didn't want anymore kids but Nara said she wouldn't mind although guy was scared he knew she'll be fine which is why he allowed it, In her last stage the belly swells way larger than before which guy gets suspicious of, On the day of delivery Guy is blessed with a pair of Twins which could explain why her belly was bigger than before The pair of Twins are A Boy And A Girl! Guy's happiness knows no bounds and Nara is very happy While the older siblings are happy to look after the kids this story will told at later time.For Now Thanks This is the first Court Of Darkness FF I wrote, Thanks Again for the support!

Love Writer NK 💜

[blackacre13]

Your anon post regarding hyperlinks to previously written topics really hit me. New (improved! better!) employment drastically hit my writing stride. It will most likely never return and although I mourn it, I accept that. Whilst not as prolific as years and years ago, the recent memories of car rides with my wife where she asks, "Sooooooo, what would XYZ do if ABC?" She smiles as she looks straight ahead at the road, then awaits my thirty-minute tale (or tirade?) that is for her and her alone. Truly priceless.

Things change. We grow, we learn, we experience new things, and in the end, hopefully it makes us better writers. Don't be afraid to just stop, reflect, and enjoy your time. You owe us nothing!

Thank you so much! I don't mean any hate towards them, of course, just hope they understand the need to balance work/real life, etc. with something I do as a creative outlet/hobby, and I'm so grateful so many of you understand and have patience with me.

I love this snippet so much. I'm a lawyer and my spouse works in veterinary medicine and one of my favorite things is when they ask me like, "hypothetically, what if so and so committed X crime and tried to do Y" or just listening to the crazy, life-saving stories they're a part of or about their patients and clients. It is truly something else to be able to share something you're passionate about with your person and something even more amazing to just hear the person you love talk about what they love to do. Ugh. The best.

Yes, yes indeed. Every bit of life and chaos just adds to the literary repertoire, right! Thank you, friend. Sending hugs and thanks your way!

[tare-anime]

SxF chapter 53

(Beware spoilers)

Wow..... I really didn't expect this kind of chapter. I thought, after the last bloody one, we will finally enter the closure of this arc. But apparently not!!! 😲

And to my dismay, Sniff Job still alive, standing, and unschated 😫😫

Ahem, anyway.... we got a totally badass Yor, so I'm grateful. 🥰🥰

(Another cliffy though 😫)

So we started the chapter with Yor wiping of blood from her face. Lol.... of course... and she still tried to persuade Sniff Job to back off. Not with the director though.

Once again we saw how McMahon was being the more experienced here. He knew that people like Sniff Jobs would never back off, if there're money involved. @nonokoko13 made a wonderful analysis here.

Btw, a very nice survival advice from Yor

Whenever there're bad guys pointing dangerous object at you, discard all politenes, and pummel their weak spots, before running away.

Anyway... carry on...

Apparently, as expected, such a genius tactician like $niff Jobs would always prepared plan A, B, C, etc.

Enter, a noble samurai.

I must say I like him! He held his bushidou, and hold up his end of the bargain. So powerful that he could sneak past two of Garden member, and attack them from the blind spots. Knocking McMahon in one strike. (Profing that Yor was indeed stronger than him. Perhaps age also play a part here. He's waaayy past his glory time.)

Anyway, back to the samurai guy, he noticed that Yor was distracted, and held back for a moment despite being in opposite sides.

He even didn't immediately finished off Yor. He simply stopped when he saw Yor has no more will to fight. (A big mistake on his part, but I'm gratefull)

Top tier trait!!!

I really like him! I hope he didn't die...

Now speaking of distraction, once again we saw that Yor didn't fully focused in doing her job.

The reason turned out to be her questioning herself and her humanity. McMahon harshly pushed her till the limit. Saying that she didn't belong in any normal family, and that she could be removed at any time. (Part of the training, I hope)

And Yor was so distracted that she even had time to think about reasons when she returned 😅 (I love short hair Yor, btw)

And that distraction was enough to make her recieved a fatal blow to the jaw... and make her dizzy, thus she started rambling in her thoughts.

Lucky though, that blow was enough to make her found her reasons to fight. I was cheering when I saw that. Finally!!! Finally she found her reason!!! Yaasss!!!

And differ from Loid who want to "save" the "world", Yor just want to "save" one or two important people in her life. (Ugh, these two really compliment one another). Interesting analysis by @thelreads regarding different views of these two applied here.

And.... I scream for crumbs of TwiYor content here...

Yor, remembering the compliment Loid ever gave her. Right at the very begining of their encounter....

Ugh.... my heaaaarrrrtttttt 😍😍😍😍🥰🥰🥰

And those memories were enough to make her stand up.

Yes!!! Yor!!!! Stand uuuupppp!!!! Fight baaaacckk!!!

This panels is so badass I'm...... I....

Aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!! My Queeen!!!!

😭😭😭😭😭😍😍😍😍😍🛐🛐🛐🛐🛐🛐

Btw, as an elite assassins, all of Yor's wardrobes ARE weapons!! Wow

Heels, earings....

Just wow....

Please Garden, to complete the collection, will you make them special clothes that could withstand bullet or sharp objects??? Their flesh aren't bullet proof 🥲