#uri strand

[uluvjay]

Please, please, please-L. Norris

Lando Norris x fem! Reader

In which Lando takes care of you after a night out.

Warnings?: alcohol consumption, drunkenness, kissing, talks of sex, mentions of flashing, prob some errors, not the best ending, got the idea from tik tok so everyone say thank you Alix Earle for breaking my writers block!!!

Lando swore he was only turned around for a second, him and max weren’t talking for long before his best friend was laughing and pointing behind Lando’s shoulder with a shocked expression on his face.

Turning around Lando’s jaw dropped at the sight of you standing on top of the bar, your Louboutin heels stranded on the ground below you as you screamed the lyrics to Sabrina carpenter’s newest song.

With a laugh lando made his way back towards you, “Y/n!”

Your body spins at the sound of his voice, glazed eyes staring down at him as a large smile took over your face right as your favorite part played through the speakers.

“Heartbreak is one thing, my egos another. I beg you don’t embarrass me motherfucker.” You sang as your body swayed, foot pointing at lando as you sang the lyrics.

He couldn’t help but laugh at your shenanigans, his head shaking as you turned around again, your back once again facing Lando.

“Baby! please get down, it’s not safe up there.” He called once again.

“Fineee.” You whined as you turned back to him with a pout going to sit down on the bar in order to get down however the Brit found himself launching forward to stop your movements the second he caught sight of your panties due to your position.

Confusion grew on your face as he gripped your waist and pulled you off the counter himself, your hands shooting out to steady yourself on his shoulders.

“Lando!” You scolded as he placed you on the ground and picked up your heals from the ground along with your clutch.

However your drunken nature proved that to be impossible as you began to whine about your feet hurting leaving the boy no choice but to pick you up bridal style and carry you out of the bar.

“What was that for?” You groaned into his neck as you began to place sloppy kisses on the skin.

“You almost flashed everyone in our section darling.” He breathed.

“Oops” you spoke but the giggled that followed had Lando quickly realizing how far gone you truly were.

You were silent for the rest of the walk to the valet and as lando sat you in your seat before walking over to the drivers side of his Uris, making sure you were both buckled tightly before heading home.

“Can I see your phone?” You asked softly.

“Right in the console”

He laughed at the squeal that escaped you, watching for a second as your hand moved towards the volume nozzle and you turned it up almost as loud as his speakers would allow.

Soon the familiar tune of “Please Please Please” began to play throughout the car, your voice quickly following Sabrina’s as you serenaded your boyfriend.

Lando jumped at the feeling of your hand on his jaw as he rolled to a stop at the light, your hand turning his head towards you as you sang out to him.

“And I have a fun idea babe, maybe just stay inside. I know you’re craving some fresh air But the ceiling fan is so nice.” You sang, finger pointed at him as you leaned closer and placed a sloppy kiss on his lips.

Some people might have found you to be too much when drunk but lando loved it, he adored the way your affection was always on level 100, and how you seemed to giggle at every little thing, how you were unashamedly yourself.

Your small concert continued until Lando pulled into his parking spot in the garage and turned the car off, a cry of annoyance leaving your lips as the song was cut off.

“Sorry baby, time to go to inside.” He smiled softly as he unbuckled both of you and exited the car before helping you out and holding onto you tightly as he walked you into the house.

He walked you into your shared room, placing your heels down before coming behind you to unzip your dress.

“Ohhh, is it sexy time?” You smirked at the feeling of his fingers on your dress.

Lando giggled at the tone of your voice, doing your absolute best to sound seductive despite your slurring.

“Nah not tonight baby, but I promise to take care of you tomorrow if you’re feeling up for it.” He apologized, placing a soft kiss to your shoulder blade before allowing the dress to fall to the floor.

He moved across the room to the dresser to pull out one of his shirts for you to sleep in and by the time he turned back around you had already stripped your bra and had your arms raised in order for him to pull the shirt over your head.

“Are you sure we can’t have sexy time?” You pouted once you were dressed in his shirt, your arms wrapping around his neck as his came to hold your waist.

“I’m very sure, now let’s go take your makeup off and brush our teeth.” He spoke placing a small kiss to your lips before lifting you off of your feet and carrying you towards the bathroom.

Settling you on the counter he pulled out your makeup remover and cotton rounds, dousing two in remover he began to gently rub your skin.

“You looked so handsome tonight.” You spoke up.

“Yeah?”

“Mhm, love when you wear your shirts like that.” You nodded, lip pulled between your teeth as your eyes ran up and down his body.

“Thought I looked like a slut when I opened them like this?” He laughed, bringing up your joke from before you two headed out for the night.

“Well yeah but you’re my slut.” You shrugged.

He shook his head at your words, his signature giggle bouncing off the walls of your large bathroom.

“And that’s all I ever wanna be darling, all yours.” He cooed, lips connecting with yours once again.

“Good because I’m not letting you leave.” You replied, legs wrapping around his waist and pulling his body closer to yours.

“Ever?”

“Nope.” You said popping the p, eyes locking with his, “Your stuck with me forever pretty boy.”

“I can deal with that.” He smirked before giving you a lingering kiss, the taste of your choice of alcohol for the night filling his senses.

“Mm, yep let’s get those teeth brushed, all I can taste is vodka.” He spoke causing both of you to break out in giggles.

Many people didn’t care for nights where they had to take care of their drunken partners but you’d never catch Lando complaining about it, even if you spent fifteen minutes with the same song on repeat as you screamed the lyrics, he’d never trade in moments like those for anything else.

After brushing both of your teeth Lando carried you to bed and tucked you in before stripping his own clothes until he was only in his boxers, your wolf whistle making his body shake with laughter before he joined you in bed.

“Get over here you muppet.” He smiled pulling your body closer to his, sighing contently as you snuggled into his side, leaving a small peck to his chest before he quickly hear your soft breathing fill the room.

He placed one last kiss to your head before allowing sleep to over take his own body.

-

[lilydalexf]

🌲👽 X-Files Survival/Wilderness Fic Recs

Here are some very good X-Files survival or wilderness fics. Because @thatsaprettycoolposter and @pookie-mulder asked! This list does not include post-colonization fics, which are also all survival fics of a sort. Enjoy!

Alligator Moon by jordan big monster in swamp attacks FBI agents

Antidote by Rachel Howard and Karen Rasch Strange doings in a tiny western town bring Mulder and Scully out to investigate. Once there, they uncover a deadly experiment that may cost both of them their lives.

Backtracking by Kel and Scetti What do Charlie Scully, the Alien Bounty Hunter, and Jesse "the Body" Ventura all have in common? Last April you could have found all three of them in Minnesota.

By the Wind Grieved by Karen Rasch Months have passed and Mulder is back. But things are not as they once were. He doesn’t know who he is or what Scully and he are to each other. Together they must reclaim the past before their enemies take away their future.

A Cabin in the Woods by @leiascully Mulder and Scully, on the run, stay for a while in a cabin in the mountains in Montana. A series of interlacing vignettes.

a cabin in the woods by @monikafilefan Being stuck in this rustic cabin, clearly left to age among the wilderness had Scully feeling wild herself, and it felt as if their bodies danced to an ancient song among the elements.

Camping by Amperage and Livengoo Fox Mulder and Dana Scully have survived abductions, serial killers, mutants and aliens but the Partner Cooperation Program Wilderness Encounter may finally do them in. After poison ivy and catfish, who wouldn’t long for a nice, safe killer mutant?

A Change of Seasons by Jo-Ann Lassiter A search for a mythical beast in the woods of Pennsylvania takes an alarming turn for the worse when Mulder's minor in ury escalates into a life-threatening disease.

Changing Tides by QofMush Who says change is all bad?

Circumnavigation by Suzanne Schramm Sometimes you don't know where you're going until you get there.

Coming Back by Karen Rasch Mulder gets a call from Mrs. Scully, who fears for Dana's safety. Following her instructions, he tracks his partner to a cabin in the mountains where he finds that she does indeed need his help. Memories of her time away have come back with a vengeance. (Sequel: The Calm After The Storm)

Dark Water by Suzanne Schramm Prehistoric insects. Mothmen. Now it’s a publicity-shy tribe of murderers. Just another nice trip to the forest with Mulder.

Falling Snow by Snark Mulder, Scully and a mysterious woman from Mulder's past crash in the snowy landscape of the Colorado winter.

Frozen by @dashakay The end of a case, and a stay in a log cabin during a blizzard, lead Scully to take the biggest risk of her life.

Last Chance Falls by @slippinmickeys A man. A women. A forest. A hit squad. An adventure.

The Lost by Wintersong Mulder and Scully are trapped in the remote wilderness and the art of surviving was not what they expected.

Old Growth Forest by Andrea Mulder and Scully investigate the disappearances of homeless people in Madison, Wisconsin and seemingly end up suffering the same fate.

A Path of Salt by Analise Mulder ditches Scully yet again to help an old friend in the Park Service. But Scully has never been one to sit and wait.

Tam Lin by Pequod When your local young men disappear, only to turn up dead a year later, sometimes it helps to have friends in high places. Myth and murder combine in a remote Scottish village, and Mulder and Scully investigate. The Fairy Queen is out to revenge the loss of her most prized knight, Tam Lin. Mulder believes but Scully’s not so sure, until Mulder takes a walk in the woods.

Tempest by Missy Pennington Mulder and Scully survive a plane crash to find themselves injured and stranded in the Appalachian wilderness. (Sequels: Distance, Wild Places, and Escape Me Never)

Untitled by @o6666666 Prompt: Mulder takes Scully camping and they make love for the second time ever under the stars.

Waiting in Motion by mountainphile After leaving the hot spring (in "Miraculous Manifestation"), Scully and Mulder take an unexpected detour on the way home. Dark secrets emerge when they seek shelter in a raging storm...and an intriguing X-file rears its head... (Sequel: Signs of Life)

Way Through the Woods by Pellinor and Rebecca Rusnak Three months ago, someone noticed something unusual about Scully. Now, in a desperate attempt to stave off the inevitable, Mulder has disappeared, and Scully’s only chance of finding him include an unlikely ally and an untrustworthy informant. As they make their way through the woods, can Mulder and Scully find each other, or is the future lost?

[haveyouatethisfruit]

Spaghetti Squash

(cucurbita pepo, var. fastigata 'spaghetti squash')

Also known as noodle squash, squaghetti, kinshi uri or yú chì guā

This winter squash comes in a variety of colours, including white, yellow and orange, and has brightly coloured flesh. The flesh is solid when raw, however when it's cooked the flesh comes away from the fruit in spaghetti-like strands. Because of this it's often used as a vegetable substitute for pasta. The large seeds inside are also edible and can be roasted like regular pumpkin seeds.

🎃 Reblog to share a fun fruit and to increase sample size! Check out even more interesting fruits here or in the list of all polled fruits. 🎃

[lady-lucida]

Here's my warlock, Alysia! She is a determined defender of the Dreaming City, and is desperate to end the curse so her lover, Kamara can be freed.

Because of her determination, she has so many titles:

Cursebreaker

Rivensbane

Realmwalker

Queensguard

Wishbearer

Out of all my Guardians, Alysia has the most "lore". Every 3 weeks she does Shattered Throne and every week she helps Petra with the Dreaming City, doing patrols and helping the Corsairs.

She does use Stasis mostly but before that she was a Voidwalker and a Stormcaller. Now she runs Prismatic and combines all three (made an actual build that does this and it's pretty nice!). She only just started to use Solar with Song of Flame as she is clumsy with dawnblade. She can't use Strand because she refuses to let go of things. She holds her hands too tightly. Osiris and Ikora both have tried to help her to no avail.

Uri, her ghost, is constantly worried about their guardian and tries to cheer Alysia up. Uri talks to Glint sometimes about advice.

Currently, she is following rumors that a certain vex mind is back from Season of the Splicer in the corrupted vex network...

[pillow-anime-talk]

Congratulations on reaching 4000!! I read your TG Drabbles and absolutely fell in love with your writing so I was wondering if I could get prompt 24 + Urie 💕💕 fem! Ghoul reader x quinx member Urie!! Thank you :)

# tags: scenario; kinda enemies/lovers and current relationship; light romance; drama; angst; ghoul!reader & quinx!kuki; crying, vomit and blood mention; dead body; kinda ooc!kuki (but not much); suggestive

includes: female reader ft. kuki urie {tokyo ghoul}

author’s note: hi! thank you very much for this request! i really like kuki and i am really happy that i can write about him! love u

24. “I’m a monster! Can’t you see it?!”

Your blood-stained long T-shirt, tears on your cheeks flushed with heat, a few strands of hair on the dirty floor, and the fear in your eyes seemed to the young Inspector an image that was downright terrifying, even nightmarish; however, not because of your appearance and the look of the room you both were in, but because of how scared and sad you were at that time. How much your eyes shone with self-loathing and how damned deep down you wanted to disappear and never be born.

“I’m a monster! Can’t you see it?!”

Of course he knew you were a ghoul. The walking grotesque, his enemy, the walking death, humanity’s greatest failure. A abominable monster.

He knew and watched you for months, studying your whole body and your behavior – he believed that he would eventually find a magical solution that would restore your humanity. He has kept you as a secret for a long time from the rest of his co-workers, from his command and from his own family. Although he knew every day that you could attack him, he bravely endured your outbursts of aggression and murderous desire, insatiable anger.

He was there when you vomited trying to eat a tomato and cheese sandwich, he was there when you cried into his shoulder, begging him to kill you, and he was there when you felt too human, wishing he would love you and stay with you for ever. He was in your worst and nastiest moments, but he was also next to you when you smiled slightly as you laid the last wild draw four card on the table and shouted a loud, almost carefree ‘Uno!’. He was always there and will always be.

It was hard for him to bear the sight of your hands in the dark liquid, your torn clothes and the traces of murder that were right under his feet. You killed an innocent woman who got a promotion in the family business two days ago. You killed a person who probably had a family who loved her, children who had to be kissed before bed, or even a dog who was eagerly waiting for her to put some of his favorite food in his bowl. You ate half of her firm, sweet flesh with tears in your eyes, and when Kuki caught you in the act, you nearly ripped out your own windpipe to relieve your own suffering. If there’s one thing you hated, it was definitely being a ghoul.

The silence between you two was interrupted only by your painful crying and the sound of cars driving down the street a few floors below. You looked alternately at the dead headless woman and at the man you loved, once again begging him to finally kill you. Of course, he didn’t do it that night, nor when you begged him to do the same three days later, clutching his shirt in a tight grip; behind you lay the lower limb of some five years old child.

It was hard for both of you to live with the thought that you loved a human and he loved a being he should have killed the first time he discovered your true colors. But he couldn’t do that. He just couldn’t.

You were both weak and pathetic.

[randomficrecss]

Eruri fic rec <3

Part 1

ugh they are so perfect, this is one of my most fav ships ever!!

these are gonna be all longer fics like 90K+ words but i’ll definitely post another part with shorter ones!

The Blue by bowowline

E | 176.1K | 14/14 | Hitman Levi, AU modern setting, Slowburn, Smut

“Look, kid. Don’t listen to what Uri says, you hear?” Kenny combs his hair with his hand, although there’s not a single strand out of place. “Don’t ever listen to him. You only have one kinda people you have to listen to. You know that, yes? Who do you listen to? Tell me,” he orders, kind of frantic.

“I only listen to the Family,” Levi says absently.

As a child, Levi refused to finish a job. He has not made one blunder after that. Twenty years later, fate catches up to him again.

Birds of Paradise by obiwhat12

No rating (check tags) | 94.9K | 14/14 | Hurt/Comfort, Sick Levi, Domestic Fluff, PTSD

On an expedition gone awry, Erwin and Levi find themselves stranded in the forest, fighting for their lives. They are graced with no other option except to put their faith in one another, despite their vast differences.

Under the same bright stars, they discover a new kind of consolation in each other that neither has known before.

In These Fallen Leaves by masksarehot

E | 210.2K | 32/32 | Temporary Character Death, Post-Canon, Hurt/Comfort, Smut

[Post-Basement canon-divergent AU] Ten years after the end of the war, Levi, still heartbroken over Erwin's death, is living out a quiet existence with a few Survey Corps survivors. But signs are beginning to surface that Erwin is not truly dead, and they're getting too vivid to ignore...

This fic explores (canon-divergent) choices that the survivors made after Erwin's death and their consequences for the world. It's also about healing, and Erwin and Levi learning to put words to things that have always been unspoken between them. And beneath it all are the paths, whispering to them that the fate of Paradis still rests upon their shoulders...

Corps-à-Corps by onthearrow (loved this one)

E | 223.6K | 25/25 | AU fencing, Slowburn, Smut

Meeting people in New York City is hard. When Erwin’s last good friend moves away for greener pastures, he joins the local fencing club in his Upper East Side neighborhood in hopes of rekindling both an old hobby, and his wilting social life.

-OR-

The newest member of Levi's fencing club has it all it all-- money, a highly successful career, overbearingly good looks. Levi doesn't have any of that. But he sure as hell wants Erwin Smith anyway.

The Means by calacreda

E | 130.2K | 16/16 | Post-ACWNR, Pre-AOT, Prostitution, Slowburn

'He hears him say “Do not tell a soul, Levi” and wants to laugh. Tell anyone? To what end? So that others have the images that Levi now has running through his head; of grabbing hands and harness marks, hard words and soft lips, of lies upon lies upon lies in a desperate attempt to get to the truth?'

Levi begins to notice Erwin leaving HQ alone and not returning until the dead of night.

Slow-burn, pre-show Eruri.

He Chose Titans by masksarehot

E | 486.1K | 43/43 | Semi-Canon Prequel, Truama, Fluff, Smut

Erwin swore he would never again be distracted from his fight against the titans, but when an unexpected bond begins to form with Levi, he must decide whether he will follow his heart or his head.

Mail Order Spy by 35g (Jaackdaw)

M | 230K | 24/24 | Slowburn, Espionage, PTSD, Fake/Pretend Relationship

2091. Titans are no longer the frail oddities they once were. They're changing, growing. Governments aren’t changing with them. The International Military Police is tightening their leash. Erwin Smith orders a spy.

Dresden by hedera_helix (one of my all time favs)

M | 334.4K | 26/26 | AU, Historial, WWII

When Levi acquired his false identification he knew that the key to survival would be to stay unnoticed and to contain the bitterness and anger he feels inside himself. As the tides of war start to turn against Germany, however, Levi finds himself in a position to make a choice.

CODA by crownlessk_ing

M | 222.2K | 27/27 | AU 80’s, Musicians, Canon Disabled Character, Period-Typical Homophobia, War Flashbacks

France, 1986 - The last time Erwin was in Paris, he had it all. Youth, love, success, and his place in some of the most prestigious orchestras of the world. His cello had been his faithful companion through it all, and many said Erwin was the most talented cellist of his time. With such a bright future, it was easy to pretend everything was perfect.

But a lot had changed in ten years.

Now, all he had left were ghosts in his shadows, blurred memories of what used to be, and a body broken beyond repair.

He hoped going back to where it all started would be enough to recover what he’d lost: his ability to hold a cello, to feel, to love. He’d been wrong so far. But there may be another soul just as broken as his, someone who was also wandering in search of their own missing pieces.

Final Tour by gouguruheddo

M | 131.9K | 22/22 | Friends to lovers, PTSD, Modern America, Mid-Life Crisis, grief/Mourning, Trust Issues, Hurt/Comfort

It's been twenty years in the army, and Levi is finally home--retired, bored, directionless. The world has moved on without him, including his friend Erwin. He struggles to learn to adjust, to deal with his nightmares, to flourish in a world he's never understood, only to find that Erwin is dealing with the same thing.

Pledge by EllaBesmirched (El_Bell)

E | 123.9K | 15/15 | AU college, Frat Boy Erwin, ex-thug Levi, Slowburn, Light Hazing,

Levi is not in a fucking frat.

The Laws of Survival by pasiphile

E | 120.8K | 7/7 | Slowburn, Dom/Sub Undertones, PTSD, Non-binary Hange

His friends are dead, and now he’s trapped in a world where he has no voice, no control, and no one on his side except for the bastard who forced him to join in the first place.

Trust doesn’t just grow in one day.

Vespers by Valisi (series)

E | 109.5K | 12 Works | read tags

A series of stories detailing Erwin Smith and Levi Ackerman's private life together. Pieces can be read individually or as a whole.

Some pieces will reference things that have happened in past parts of the story, but it's nothing so major that you'll feel left out.

[mintbnny]

Ang Lamig sa Lamig 🏔️

Ang lamig ay dumadaloy na parang laganap na avalanche, nanginginig ka sa pakiramdam. Bawat galaw na ginagawa mo ay nakakatakot, lahat ay nanonood sa iyo ngayon. Sino ang maaari mong pinagkakatiwalaan sa purong puting hellscape na ito, ikaw ay nag-iisa nang malalim. Pakiramdam mo ay karapat-dapat ka dito. Pakiramdam mo ay ipinanganak ka para dito. Pakiramdam mo ay kailangan mong laging makipagsabayan dito. Ngunit kailangan mo bang magdusa ang lahat ng ito nang mag-isa? Ang lamig ba ay talagang nanonood sa iyo o nabulag ka lang ng puti at niyebe? Ang lamig ay dumadaloy na parang laganap na avalanche, nanginginig ka ba talaga?

Ang Promises to Keep ay isang visual na nobela tungkol sa isang nawawalang indibidwal (ikaw) na sinusubukang hanapin ang kanilang sarili sa pamamagitan ng mga kahirapan kabilang ang isang napakalaking snowstorm. Habang sinusubukang umalis sa kanyang bayan upang makatakas sa walang katapusang pakiramdam ng monogamy, ang paglipad ng protag ay nakansela ng isang malaking snowstorm na tila hindi huminto anumang oras sa lalong madaling panahon. Naputol ang kapangyarihan ng buong kapitbahayan at natagpuan ng protag ang kanyang sarili na nanginginig mula sa gumagapang na lamig sa loob ng kanyang bahay. Ngunit sa kabutihang palad isang mabait na estranghero ang kumatok sa kanyang pinto at nag-alok ng kanyang lugar dahil mayroon siyang generator. Sinisikap ng estranghero na iligtas ang mga stranded na tao sa kapitbahayan sa pamamagitan ng pag-aalok ng kanyang lugar. Masayang tinatanggap ng protag at sa huli ay natagpuan ang kanyang sarili sa loob ng bahay ng estranghero kasama ang 5 iba pang mga tao. Sa loob ng bahay, ang protag ay matututo at lalago sa kanyang tirahan, magbubuklod sa malupit na bagyo, at mag-aaliw sa isa't isa.

Nakatuon ang blog na ito sa isang karakter sa laro na labis kong kinagigiliwan.

Isa sa mga taong nakilala ng protag sa bahay ay isang raccoon na nagngangalang Hunter, isang masipag na estudyante sa kolehiyo na naghahabol ng medisina na natigil din sa snowstorm tulad ng iba sa kanila. Siya ay napaka-aktibo sa akademya, atleta, at pati na rin sa lipunan. Bilang isang papalabas na tao, hindi kailanman nabigo si Hunter na hikayatin at pasayahin ang kanyang mga kapantay. Ang lahat ay tumitingin sa kanya dahil dito, ngunit sa ilalim ng lahat, dapat kang magtaka kung bakit ginagawa ng isang taong tulad niya ang lahat ng ito. Sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pangangalaga at kagila-gilalas na panlabas, makikita ang ilang mga bitak na nagpapakita ng isang bagay na mas totoo. Bakit niya sinusubaybayan ang pagkain na kanyang kinakain? Bakit lagi niyang pinipilit ang sarili na pagaanin ang mood kahit nasaktan siya? Bakit niya kinasusuklaman ang sarili sa tuwing nagkakamali siya? Bakit niya inilalagay ang kanyang sarili sa lahat ng mga pagsisikap na ito para lamang mapanatili ang isang mukha? Nagpapakita ito ng malalim na pagkahumaling sa pagpipigil sa sarili sa kanyang mga pananaw sa kanyang sarili, ngunit sino ang sinusubukan niyang patunayan?

Si Hunter ay lumaki sa isang mataas na uri ng sambahayan na may mga awtoritaryan na magulang. Malaki ang inaasahan ng kanyang mga magulang mula sa kanya na nagdudulot ng expectation pressure sa murang edad, palagi siyang tinuturuan na maging lubhang mapagkumpitensya, palaging nasa tuktok kung saan titingin ang mga tao sa kanya, hanggang sa punto kung saan sinabihan siya na ang pakikipagkaibigan ay walang kabuluhan at sa halip, dapat siyang gumawa ng mga koneksyon upang mapabuti ang kanyang katayuan sa lipunan. Ang kanyang mga magulang ay palaging kumukuha ng mga tutor at instructor para sa kanya upang mabuo ang kanilang pananaw sa isang “perfect” na anak, ngunit bilang kapalit, si Hunter ay nakaramdam ng pressure at napahiya pa sa harap ng mga tutor at instructor na ito. Dahil sa lahat ng ito,

References:

Howenstein, J., Kumar, A., Casamassimo, P. S., McTigue, D., Coury, D., & Yin, H. (2015). Correlating parenting styles with child behavior and caries. Pediatric dentistry, 37(1), 59–64.

Guo, X., Hao, C., Wang, W., & Li, Y. (2024). Parental Burnout, Negative Parenting Style, and Adolescents' Development. Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland), 14(3), 161. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14030161

[night-fall-moon]

Prologue: Reina Nakou

masterlist next chapter

Reina Nakou, was a mystery to almost everyone who worked with her at the CCG. Her lively—almost childish manners—seemed to drive everyone away from her. And it didn't help that the way she dressed wasn't in any way modest.

Her lilac hair swayed behind her, her eyes glued in front of her. She wore black button up leaving the first two open revealing a bit of her cleavage. A tight blazer that accentuated her big bust, and a tight fitting skirt that hugged her curves. Her 3'' high heels clicked against the concrete floors, manicured nails raking through her hair.

People around the building mumbled about how provocative she was. Her name rolled off their tongue with distaste, rumors of her seducing the higher ups led to her promotion to become a Rank 1 Investigator. They rumored her to be a dumb bimbo who had no skill on the field, but was kept because she was a good fuck once in a while.

"It's a shame, she's got the body—but that's all she's got." They'd pity her.

Not once did they ever seek her out either, not unless some horny co-worker of hers tried to seduce her into bed. She'd always reject every advance,

"I'm sorry, but I'm not interested." She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

"So you only whore yourself out with men with money? Just say you're a prostitute. How much is a night with someone like you?" He tried to negotiate with her, not noting her body language.

She was irritated to say the least, her eyes screwed shut as she sighed,

"Look, I'm not a prostitute—and I already told you I'm not interested. So, please, leave me alone." She argued, fists balled up ready to strike the bastard.

She left him outside the street as she walked herself home that night. Occurrences like these were becoming the new normal for her. It also didn't help that she was in the Quinx Squad.

The Quinx Squad made up of five other people (not including herself) were treated like a joke with little to no respect for them. It even tore the reputation of Investigator Akira Mado, daughter of Kureo Mado—a renowned Ghoul Investigator in the 20th ward. 

She was a blonde girl with deep purple eyes, and always acted professional no matter the circumstance. It's what she was known and respected for in the CCG.

Walking back out the building she called the first person that came to mind.

"Hey, Haise. Where are you?"

"By the Main Office with Mutsuki, but we've got bigger issues to deal with-" He sounded out of breath, the sound of wind prevalent in the audio feedback.

"Oh I just passed by there— hey wait I see you. Hold on, I'll come to you." She hung up quickly and ran towards the duo.

"What's wrong—and why are you both so out of breath?" She asked confusedly as she watched them gasp for air.

"Urie and Shirazu are probably pursuing a ghoul without notice." Mutsuki huffed.

"You mean the Torso case? Everyone's been talking about it—specifically Shimoguchi Squad since it's their case-" she was interrupted by a yell,

"You knew and didn't report this-"

"How was I supposed to know they were gonna pursue this fucking guy?! Ugh let's go, you've already read the details, haven't you?"

They nodded at her question and made a run for it.

"Those fucking idiots." She mumbled under her breath as the now trio grew closer and closer to the scene in front of them.

The idiots let their guard down after seemingly "defeating" the ghoul they were attacking which left an opening for the old ghoul to attack those two boys behind their backs. But before his kagune cut through their flesh it was stopped by a quinque making it rebound back to the owner.

"You fucking idiots can't even kill a ghoul correctly and you wanna do missions together." She sighed in disappointment while Haise only looked back at them and lightly scolded them.

"Never let your guard down," he said.

"Investigator Sasaki..." the monotone boy lulled out.

The sharp toothed boy only blanched seeing both of his mentors there; one looking upset and distressed and the other disappointed.

"I'll finish him off." Urie claimed more than offered to do so.

"No. 'The infliction of unnecessary pain against ghouls is strictly prohibited.' It's in the Ghoul Countermeasures Handbook. He could provide us information."  Haise remarked.

"But more importantly I said not to act alone." He warned them.

"But I'm with Urie." Shirazu started.

"He's right." Urie agreed.

"Don't be cute with us now, boy. Don't you know how dangerous it is to act alone?! For fucks sake you're injured." She groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose, her patience wearing thin as she pointed a finger in his direction warning him about his behavior.

"But we got results, didn't we?" He mocked them as he took his headphones out blocking their comments.

"Even if we gotten wounded, we would've regenerated eventually."  The monotone boy defended their actions mumbling a little 'takes a bit longer for me but...' under his breath as he walked away.

"If we keep following article thirteen we'll never get rid of ghouls." 

Getting tired of his shitty attitude she walked up to him grabbing him by the shoulder and slapped him. Everyone stood surprised, including the boy. His cheek stood red, a small cut from her nails led to small dribbles of blood flowing down his face from the small cut.

They'd never seen the kind, patient, and childish mannered woman become so serious and fueled by anger before—up until now.

"Get your act together before you regret your actions, idiot." She warned him.

"Let's clean this mess up..."

"That's 902 for squad leader Urie and 850 for Yonebayashi. 920 for Shirazu and 655 for Mutsuki." The doctor spoke as he handed the results to both Haise and Reina.

"Urie and Shirazu have RC factors on the higher side, since they've been using their abilities." He mentioned.

"I think they're using their kagune outside our supervision, should we stop them?" Haise asked worriedly.

"Tell them I said not to have too much fun, after all the quinxes are still a research project in progress..."

"But on the other hand Mutsuki's levels are basically the same as a normal humans. It goes against the original Quinx plan of utilizing ghoul characteristics." He finished.

"Makes sense as to why his progress in training hasn't improved much. He's still weak and slow." She muttered under her breath.

"And he can't control is kakugan. It's activated all the time."

"...well it's better than having no control and high RC levels. Too many RC cells and like a ghoul—he might not be able to eat normally."

…

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to."

"It's alright. Oh we should get going, we have a meeting in a few." Haise waved off awkwardly.

"Alright. Oh and... Investigator Yonebayashi is a bit on the heavy side... tell her to watch herself." He concluded.

Both mentors said their thanks and walked to the exit.

"Seems the ghoul that Investigator Urie from Mado Squad confronted the other day wasn't Torso. Torso's currently an A rated Ghoul, but because no one has actually encountered him in battle, his rank is unknown."

"Maybe it's better they didn't encounter him." Mado said.

"In any case, we're on the Torso case. The Mado Squad needs to their own case." Someone on the Shimoguchi Squad barked out.

"That reminds me... I understand that the Quinxes followed up a tip about a possible Ghouls sighting. Something about growls... what did they find?" A different member of the squad snickered out with a cocky raised eyebrow.

"Stray dogs?! That's what the Quinxes do? They find dogs?!" They bursted out cackling.

Both mentors sat awkwardly watching their fits of laughter and mocking words towards them. Haise could only attempt to laugh with them in hopes to appear less embarrassed about their findings while Reina played neutral and oblivious to their comments.

"Ha-ha... yeah... it was a bit of a let down, but we're glad it wasn't a ghoul." Haise smiled awkwardly.

"Wipe that grin off your face. It seems Investigator Sasaki is something of an idealist..." the squad leader of the torso case  sneered at the way Haise was treating this case so lightly.

"Why wasn't a ghoul of that rating taken care of right then and there? He had no useful information. He's rate B at best."

"Civilian safety is our highest priority. That's what it says in the Ghoul Countermeasures article thirteen. Ghouls need to be dealt with swiftly."

"But clause two says 'the infliction of unnecessary pain against ghouls is strictly prohibited.'" Haise said as a matter of factly only to be turned down.

"I think you're misinterpreting. Clause two doesn't prohibit us from killing ghouls, just causing them 'unnecessary pain.' In other words ghoul investigators are expected to kill them instantly."

His lips puckered up as he continued trying to rile Haise up. Though it wasn't working because the man was too good for everyone, and Reina stayed acting oblivious letting Haise take the fall.

"Or do you sympathize with them... Investigators Sasaki? It's certainly a possibility with you. After all, a ghoul did-" he was interrupted by investigator Mado.

"Investigator Shimoguchi. Training my team is my job. I'll talk to him later." She reassured him.

"Investigator Mado, maybe you're not doing your job well enough. He demanded we hand over our case files the other day. I was shocked—thinking he could just take over our case!"

"Maybe he just got tired of your investigation being conducted at a turtle's pace... and tried to help." 

"What?!"

"Sasaki and I could close that case in ten days. But unfortunately we're busy dealing with Aogiri Tree. Even Sasaki and the Quinxes could get a physical description of Torso in a month."

"You little-"

"Mado, Shumoguchi... that's enough." Take Hirako, leader of the Hilario Squad intervened before the discourse could get more physical.

"The Torso investigation will be handled by both the Shimoguchi Squad and Mado Squad. So please share case files."

The room was silent until Shimoguchi caved in and reluctantly handed over the information.

Mado Squad: 1

Shimoguchi Squad: 0

"Hirako Squad will continue our investigation of the rate ≥S Orochi. That concludes our meeting for today." Hirako ended.

Everyone started gathering their things, all of the Hirako Squad left leaving both the Mado Squad and Shimoguchi Squad alone. Taking this opportunity Shimoguchi spoke up.

"Investigator Mado. A physical description of Torso in a month? I'm looking forward to it." He taunted, obviously thinking they couldn't do it within that 'deadline'.

"Yeah, and when we do, I hope we can look forward to some willing cooperation from your squad in the future." She ended.

"...fine." He said as he left.

A few seconds passed before Haise looked in Mado's direction.

"I'm sorry you had to cover for me, Investigator Mado." He apologized.

"Sasaki." Was all she said before she pulled him by the shoulder and landed a signature punch onto this abdomen.

She looked down at him as he crumbled to the floor by the sheer force of her previous action.

"I don't dislike your gentle temperament, but ditch it when it comes to battles. Your comment on clause two embarrassed me even."

She looked at the other girl who was standing behind Haise.

"As it is that you're already discriminated against more than the Quinxes. Don't defend ghouls. If you want to avoid any more Mado Punches. That kindness... it'll kill you." She turned away.

"We got Investigator Hirako's authorization. Get me a physical description of Torso within a month. I wanna see Shimoguchi's lips quiver in shame. And you," she turned to the lilac haired woman.

"When are you going to apply yourself? You're smarter than you let on, and yet you bring more shame and embarrassment to the Quinx Squad... I expect better from you the next time we meet." She hung her head low as she walked away, heels clicking every step she took until the sound quieted.

...

"Let's get you up. Come on." Reina said as she hauled him up.

He leaned over her shoulder in pain.

"Thanks." He grinned shyly at her.

""Investigators Sa-sa-ki, Re-i-na! Quite a scene in there." Spoke Ito. Another investigator from the Hirako squad.

"Oh, Investigator Ito." Haise acknowledged the man.

"I'll go check up on the rest of the squad, I'll see you at home, Haise. Investigator Ito." She clasped her hands together pushing her breasts together and bowed—taking her leave.

"I'm home!" She yelled once she closed the front door.

"Instructor Nakou? Where's Instructor Sasaki?" Mutsuki asked, his face a bit disappointed to see only her walking up the stairs to the living room.

"He got caught up with Investigator Ito, he'll take a while. Where're the others?" She stretched herself out on the sofa.

"They left to blow off some steam.. I think." He strung off.

"Do you know where they left specifically?" She straightened herself up-right on the couch.

"They wouldn't budge when I asked them." He shook his head in defeat.

"You tried your best, that's what matters most. I'll be in my room if you need me, night, Mutsuki."

"Goodnight, Nakou."

"A physical description of Torso in a month?"

"Yeah."

"A case Shimoguchi Squad is already struggling with in a month?"

"I know I'm asking a lot, but I think it's possible if we all work together. If the quinxes can come together as a group..." Haise remarked.

Shirazu just chuckled out a bit at his words.

"You really are something, Sassan."

"Shirazu..." Reina warned.

"I'm goin' it alone."

"No you're not. Sit your ass back down, kid."

"What's your deal? Got a crush on Sasaki?" Urie countered.

She whipped her head to look at him.

"I don't." She crossed her arms in front of her.

"Sure seems like you do. Always kissing at his feet since you've joined, praising him in every way. Seems like you really like him." He taunted.

She inched closer to the brats' ear. She didn't care for his words, she found them hilarious.

"I don't, but what's it to you? Mad that he's got my attention unlike you? Mad that I'm praising him instead of you? How cute. Maybe it's you who's got a crush on me. You want me to get on my knees and worship you like a god? I can do that."

She peeled herself away from him, fixing her gaze on his face. He was disgusted by her words and upset at what she was trying to imply. She just grinned mischievously and patted his cheek.

"Cheer up, maybe if you put your ego aside and actually thought of someone else other than yourself—you'd earn my attention and respect rather than hearing me berate you like a little puppy."

He just clicked his tongue and brought the conversation back to what it was originally about.

"I'll collar Torso in a month." He started before he made his way out of the meeting room.

Haise tried calling out to him but to no avail, he didn't care. Turning around, Reina looked at Haise's figure and saw him beating himself up for not being able to keep his team together.

"It's not your fault, they're just stubborn." Reina tried to reassure him.

Tooru just looked at them with a worried expression. So far it's only been him and Reina who's been making an effort to actually work together as a team. Everyone else like Saiko, Urie, and Shirazu work alone, or sometimes don't even bother to get up. More than anything, Tooru was losing hope.

"So they insist on acting independently, huh?" Haise started with an ominous tone.

"Fine, I think it's time to show those boys what I'm capable of. The three of us are going to bring in Torso, Mutsuki, and Reina. Before those two do!"

Haise started spewing a lot of things, things she wasn't bothered to really listen to.

"If you're done shouting then maybe we can get started with the actual investigation, Haise." Reina sweatdropped.

"Right. First step: Cochlea."

"Investigator Sasaki. Investigator Mado told me you'd be stopping by." The warden said as he was met with three faces, two of them being more recognizable than the third.

"Why hello, Haisaki." Reina waved at him with a smirk.

"Welcome back, Nakou." He welcomed, his voice void of enthusiasm.

Both Haise and Mutsuki looked between the both of them trying to figure out how they knew each other.

"As I was saying, Cochlea was hit hard when we lost Warden Misaka at the hand of Aogiri Tree. I personally have high hope for the Quinx Squad." Haisaki admitted.

He mumbled a little praise and continued leading us to where we were headed. Mutsuki was a tad bit nervous mainly because they were visiting a prison full of ghouls.

Reina noticed his worrying and hoped that her reassurance would calm him down a bit.

"Hey, don't worry. The walls are made of Quinque steel, and they’re weakened with RC Suppressants.." she scratched her nape.

Sasaki on the other hand just watched the two with a dazed look. There were dark circles under his eyes and small eye-bags that could be seen if you studied his face close enough. She nudged him a bit to wake him up from his little daze and he perked up a bit, seemingly startled for a little until he looked at the girl. She just smiled and nudged her head towards the big door that held who they were scheduled to speak with.

"Well, well, if it isn't Haise and Reina. I was just getting bored." Donato Porpora grinned whilst rubbing his shoulder.

"I'm surprised to see you've sided with the CCG, princess. Hey, where's your commanding investigator, Haise?"

"Akira Mado is on a different case." He put it simply.

"How does it feel to be under the thumb of a female investigator?" The man behind the shatterproof glass asked.

"It doesn't feel so bad when it's the thumb of a brilliant woman. How about you, Father?"

"You brought a new face with you today. Very young and... appetizing." Donato growled out getting as close as he could to Mutsuki with the glass being the only thing separating the two from his bloodlust and insatiable appetite.

Mutsuki could only stare in horror and backed up slowly as he felt himself pale at the SS rated ghoul words. He ended up tripping over his own two feet and fell to the ground looking up at the terrifying Russian ghoul.

"I would like to rip that stomach open at my leisure, and stuff my mouth full of plump organs." Donato’s eyes went wide as he salivated and went on and on about how he'd kill him and eat him up.

"Oh, you! Take it easy on him." Reina scolded the old pastor.

"I apologize." The elder said with a small smile.

"Oh, you! Take it easy on him." Reina scolded the old pastor.

"So... what are you investigating?" Donato asked as if nothing happened moments prior to his question.

"A ghoul that goes by the name Torso." Haise said as he pulled up the information.

The glass separating the prisoner from the investigators then displayed a map of every single crime scene.

"We believe he's using a vehicle to get around since his feeding range is so broad. All victims have been females." Haise explained.

"In addition only their torsos have been taken." Reina added.

The old pastor looked at the girl expectantly to continue. He knew the girl for quite some time, well enough to know that she already knew who the ghoul really was. But she didn't relent.

"I see.. the head is a very important part for a ghoul. Understanding what one is eating enriches the experience. Enjoying the rest while appreciating the face—or perhaps going straight from the head... to each their own." He kept his gaze fixed on the lilac headed girl.

"The head truly is the centerpiece of a meal. It's a single flower as the only garnish to a meal that may seem insipid to humans."

"To show no interest in that flower and to leave it behind—he must either be an awfully picky eater or have a refined palette." Donato put it simply.

Haise was ruminating. He felt as if there was more than just hunger fueling Torso. There was definitely something more and he felt it.

"...or does he feel threatened." Haise began.

"The eyes express emotions—the mouth utters words. A face contains an enormous amount of information. What if he's trying to block all that information... entirely?"

"A ghoul aware of his own powers... afraid of humans.. because-"

"He's blending into human society." The old man finished.

"Concealing his identity as a ghoul... working for a normal business. Most likely some kind of an errand boy. Cleverly fooling everybody around him while being tormented by his boss, the clients... a position that requires familiarity with the streets. For instance a cab driver."

With that everything in Haise's mind went off and memories of Urie submitting hundreds of cab receipts. All along Urie was on the right track, but because of the lack of communication Urie was holding everyone, including himself, back.

"Thank you for the insight, Mr. Porpora." Haise thanked as he left the room leaving Mutsuki and Reina inside.

"Have you told all of them?" Donato asked the girl.

"No." She replied, gathering all the materials left inside.

"When will you?"

"Soon." She hummed.

"C'mon. Let's go, Mutsuki." She waved her hand to signal the boy about their departure.

"Nice seeing you again, Father."

"Instructor Sasaki... why does the CCG keep that man alive?" Mutsuki asked, still spooked and upset between their previous interaction with him.

"When I look into that ghoul's eyes... I'm terrified." He shuddered.

"It's because he's a valuable source of information for the CCG. That's why the Bureau uses him. At least until... and I don't like how this sounds like either, but.. until they get rid of him." He explained the duo trailing behind him.

Though Haise works for the Commission of Counter Ghoul, he doesn't find pleasure or satisfaction in killing them. He's a gentle soul who tried to find the good in almost everyone, even if they are cold blooded convicted killers. He sighed silently in his mind as he looked to his right, Reina walking with a high held head. Meanwhile Mutsuki trailed behind them both with a low strung head.

wc: 3.7k masterlist next chapter

a/n: so that’s the prologue… how we feeling? Honestly idk what I’m doing. I grew bored and this is like the 3rd rendition of this FF. I’m somewhat satisfied with this one enough to post it so bleh. Masterlist has been uploaded!

ps. updates will probably like three posts every month if I’m lucky if not then I’m sorry. Writers block will kick my ass hence why this is the 3rd rendition of the original.

Tag list:

[byneddiedingo]

Rinat Matatov, Shlomi Avraham, and Saleh Bakri in The Band's Visit (Eran Kolirin, 2007)

Cast: Sasson Gabal, Ronit Elkabetz, Saleh Bakri, Khalifa Natour, Uri Gavriel, Shlomi Avraham, Rinat Matatov, Hilla Sarjon. Ahuva Keren, Tomer Josef. Screenplay: Eran Kolirin. Cinematography: Shai Goldman. Film editing: Arik Leibovitch. Music: Habib Shadah.

The Band's Visit is a cats-and-dogs movie: a meeting of two supposedly antagonistic cultures, in which each side learns something from the confrontation. But it avoids formula by fresh performances and a wry directorial distancing. Eight members of a police force orchestra from Alexandria, Egypt, find themselves stranded in the Israeli desert because of a misunderstanding about the name of their destination. They are supposed to play at the opening of an Arab Cultural Center in Israel, but they get off the bus by the side of the highway, across from a small cafe. The owner of the cafe, Dina (Ronit Elkabetz), scoffs at the notion that they are there to play at a cultural center: "Here there is no Arab culture. Also, no Israeli culture. Here there is no culture at all." The bleak little town is mostly modern high-rise apartments and the "park" has neither grass nor trees. She discovers the source of the error -- they were supposed to go to a town whose name sounded similar -- and tells them that there's not another bus until the next morning. The stubborn, autocratic leader of the band, Tawfiq (Sasson Gabal), decides to set out on foot, and the other seven band members, dressed in light blue uniforms, follow until Haled (Saleh Bakri), a handsome young violinist, complains that they haven't eaten all day. Tawfiq blows his top and puts Haled on report, but when the other band members confess their hunger, relents and returns to the cafe, where Dina feeds them and suggests that she and some of the men who hang around the cafe can put them up for the night. And so the film tracks the experiences of these strangers in a strange land through the night. We learn, for example, why Tawfiq is such a sourpuss and why the clarinetist, Simon (Khalifa Natour), is blocked in his attempts to compose a concerto. The most charming and funny scene involves Haled, who has already been established as something of a ladies' man, who goes out as a fifth wheel with Ars (Tomer Josef) and Papi (Shlomi Avraham) on their double date. Papi is upset because he has been stuck with Yula (Rinat Matatov), whom he regards as depressing. But then Papi is a virgin with no experience of women, and Haled takes it on himself to show Papi the ropes. At a small roller disco, Papi and Haled, who don't know how to skate, are sidelined. Yula tries to get Papi out on the floor, but he rebuffs her. As closing time draws near, an attendant starts packing up the plastic chairs, and Yula, who is in tears, is forced to sit on a bench with Papi and Haled, who takes a handkerchief out of his pocket and hands it to Papi, who hands it to Yula. Then Haled takes a small airline liquor bottle out of his pocket, hands it to Papi, prompting him to offer Yula a drink. She accepts and Papi returns the bottle to Haled after both have drunk from it. Then Haled places his hand on Papi's knee as a suggestion that he follow suit with Yula. Then he begins to caress Papi's knee as another suggestion. Finally, when Yula puts her hand on Papi's, Papi puts his hand on Haled's. Haled removes it: lesson over. This long single take is characteristic of director Eran Kolirin's sly style throughout the film, which was a huge hit in Israel and would have been that country's Oscar nominee for best foreign language film except that it was ruled ineligible because half of the dialogue is in English -- the language the Egyptians and Israelis use to communicate with one another. 

[konakoro]

Brendon Urie burned so many bridges that he realized too late he ended up stranded on an island with no rescue in sight

[minarcana]

Laurel hops on a chair in the Waking Sands, sitting sideways. "Uri, do you know how to braid hair?"

She’s interrupted him in the middle of what he claims to be breakfast (and which she claims is first off too small and second off, far too late in the morning for such a title), and he simply regards her owlishly for a good couple seconds before putting down the cup of tea and responding. "Wherefore is it me thou asketh?"

Laurel gives him a clearly puzzled look. “Uh. Here?”

She misunderstands. “Ah, nay. Hm.” What’s the word. Something... they’re all wh- words, and it never comes to mind.... Settle for an equivalent, then. “For what reason is it me?”

“Oh!” She has no idea why he had to phrase it like that in the first place, but now she’s got it. “Because you’re here.”

“I know not how.”

He’s not escaping that easily, especially now since Laurel’s made up her mind. “Then I’ll show you.” She’s perfectly pleased with this, and sets about doing exactly as promised. Urianger, recognizing that all fights with Laurel wanting to her her way are losing fights, settles for paying attention. One never knows when new knowledge will be useful, after all.

She shows him how to braid with a section of her own hair, pulled over her shoulder seemingly at random. She also doesn’t really give a good answer when he asks why it has to be him when she’s clearly perfectly capable. Ah well.

Laurel directs him simply once she’s satisfied he understands the admittedly very straightforward task. Urianger is to create a braid from each side of her crown, long enough to meet at the back of her head.

They’re not the neatest of braid. Laurel can feel unfamiliarity in his hands, and he’s a little prone to tugging either too much or not enough, but she doesn’t mind. “The young woman guarding the entrance would likely do a better job.”

Probably, but Laurel’s already friends with her. That’s not the point. "Mm. I waited for you to get up before I left so you’d do it."

"Thine argument is not sensible, warrior of light."

"Maybe not. Hey, Uri. Are you ever lonely?" She's seen him in the same corner for too long, always lost in thought until she approaches. There are only rarely others in the room with him. The way he speaks often of what isn't or what might, rather than is. It's lonely.

Urianger's fingers pause for a moment, before she feels him pick the braid back up. "Nay," he says afterwards. Laurel can tell he fully believes the statement. She doesn't, though, and has a sneaking feeling he believes it because he hasn't thought about it. Well... perhaps she's just being nosy.

Perhaps she's projecting, too, but it can't be anything other than lonely to be thinking only of ghosts. "That's good," she says, and lapses into quiet as Urianger continues braiding. Neither of them speak until Urianger voices a question as to what he should do once he's braided the side strands of her hair.

Laurel directs him lightly. This time, she'll settle with combining them into a single larger braid... she gets the feeling a neat bun would be beyond Urianger's capability, and the act of tying a good two feet of hair will occupy him long enough for her to figure out how to politely say what she wants.

He's close to the end of Laurel's hair when she figures it out. "So, I hate doing my own hair. My siblings always did it when we lived together, so doing it by myself when I don't have to makes me lonely. I only let family do my hair, though."

"But I am not—"

"And by that rule," Laurel holds up a finger, angled backwards towards Urianger, "the reverse is true, if I let you do my hair you're my family." She leans back now so she can look at Urianger, her red eyes just barely managing to fix upon him. "That means if you ever need things or want to say hello, you're allowed to call on me. I have a linkpearl. Thou haseth my number."

"Hath," he says, for lack of any other immediate response. Embarrassing...

Laurel laughs, bright and unabashed. "Arse. Now tie your braid off."

[norbezjones]

First day of @creativepromptsforwriting's Date Week, baby! I'll be writing a new Romance The Backrooms story for every new Date Week Post.

Today's Ship: Carla x Uri

Prompt: He was not one to kiss on the first date. But he had done a lot on this date that he normally didn't imagine himself to do.

__________

"Uri!"

Uri turned around to see Carla approaching, and he gave her a smile. She was wearing a sundress decorated with cartoony bluebirds; it looked lovely on her. He felt a bit underdressed in his khakis and long collared shirt.

"Good to see you," Uri said once she got close. "Um . . . are you ready?"

"Of course," Carla replied with a smile. "Let's go!"

Soon, the two of them were sitting at a table in the coffee shop, with drinks and food. Uri had a white chocolate frappuccino and a blueberry scone, while Carla had a hazelnut latte and a cinnamon raisin bun.

The conversation settled into an easygoing rhythm of how-was-your-days and what-have-you-been-up-tos, and Uri responded to each question & que appropriately. But in the back of his mind, his depression lingered, and made him think, I am definitely going to mess this up.

He suddenly noticed the conversation had lulled, and saw a sad look on Carla's face. "What's wrong?" he asked.

"Nothing, just. . ." She bit her lip. "Sorry, I'm just overthinking things a little bit. I know you know what that's like."

"Yeah," he said, putting a hand on top of hers. "I definitely do."

"I just feel like I'm gonna say the wrong thing and ruin everything," she admitted, "even though I know that our bond wouldn't break that easily."

"My brain's also telling me that," Uri admitted, laughing.

"Our brains can be so mean sometimes," Carla said, sticking out her tongue playfully. "But at least we can talk about it, right?"

Uri nodded. "Yeah. I'm glad I can talk to you about it. And my friends too, I suppose. But you . . . you're very special to me. I hope you know that."

Carla blushed. "Thanks," she said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I'm glad to hear that."

Uri leaned forward and put a hand under her chin. Tilting it upwards, he planted a gentle kiss on her lips. He was not one to kiss on the first date. But then again, he had done a lot on this date that he normally didn't imagine himself to do.

When they parted, Carla gave him a smile, and squeezed his hand. "Thank you," she said. "That was . . . very nice."

Uri smiled back. "I'm glad." He cleared his throat and sipped his drink. "Like I said . . . you're very special to me."

First Date Prompts

It was their first official date and despite both of them already knowing each other, they were both incredibly nervous.

He was not one to kiss on the first date. But he had done a lot on this date that he normally didn't imagine himself to do.

Their first date was an absolute disaster. And everyone was shocked to find out that they were already planning the second one.

As far as first dates go, this one was special.

Having their first date in front of cameras was less than ideal.

They couldn't remember what their first date was, so they plan the perfect first date, even though they've been together for some time now.

A date is not supposed to last more than a few hours, much less more than a day. Especially not a first date.

This first date was a perfect example of Murphy's law. Nothing worked out how they had expected it to, and every time they thought it couldn't get worse, it did.

Having been in an online relationship for a while, it was weird and exciting to have their first date in person months after saying I love you the first time.

Their friends had arranged a blind date for them, and because their friends know them best, they were already planning a second date after this.

If you like my blog and want to support me, you can buy me a coffee or become a member! 🥰

[alisdolor]

Once sixteen and fearful, my hand freed the latch

Of the window that held me (stars are hard to catch)

And the heroes have swords, all I had was a match

I climbed out on the fire escape

As I wedged my small frame through a gap in the bars

I reminded myself that all heroes have scars

I charted myself a new path to the stars

I climbed out on the fire escape

The stars loved me too well and embraced me too tight

Projected on me an illusion of light

And they promised me I would be queen of night

And my throne was the fire escape

And my quick-roving eyes burned the night up like brands

Hair whipped round my head in too-flammable strands

And the heroes have fates, all I had were my hands

So I sat on the fire escape

But the same hands that forged me feared my fiery eyes

Feared that smoldering darkness could one day arise

So the hands planted poison to block my blue skies

But I had not yet dreamed of escape

And while I shot up like a well-meaning weed

My mother gave me all her tools to succeed

And a child’s mind will foster the vilest seed

But it had not yet dreamed of escape

She raked and she shoveled with spade and with hoe

My mind broke and bled with each gardening blow

And where poison is planted poison ivy will grow

And it grew on the fire escape

And the ivy bore fruit and I was forced to bite it

Choked smoldering coals, now who could reignite it?

And this once-burning star had no strength left to fight it

But my mind whispered “fire, escape”

But my head felt so heavy, filled up with the vines

I saw torches and pitchforks, I counted the tines

I wrote on the wall but was blind to the signs

And my mind whispered “fire, escape”

And just when I feared that nothing could undo it

A spark caught the vine and I carefully grew it

The flame was my own, so I gave myself to it

And I burned on the fire escape

Once I vanquished the vines, I began on the bars

I melted them down to avenge all my scars

Then I waited to claim my lost place with the stars

But I’d burned up the fire escape

With no vines to devour the fire grew greedy

And the stars picked a new younger love to succeed me

So I choked on the smoke of the fire that freed me

The fire I used to escape

The flickering starlight I once knew so well

Betrayed my burnt-out eyes, so from heaven I fell

With no place in the sky, I found my way to hell

For where else can fire escape?

And the devil won’t leave idle hands unemployed

I build castles of ashes in the mind I destroyed

Once I was a star, now I’m queen of the void

I’m still stuck on the fire escape

As I stand in my darkness and conjure my fire

Refracted flame shimmers, I strive to inspire

But my wavering visions call down heaven’s ire

And I’m stuck on the fire escape

Now my hologram heart starts to flicker and flash

Poison ivy all burnt but I still feel the rash

And once the smoke clears, what is left but the ash?

And I’m stuck on the fire escape

And down here the sky’s black but once wasn’t it blue?

I reach for my lover, my hands pass right through

And I burn, because that’s all I know how to do

I’m the girl on the fire escape

ESSE STELL (EST URI)

By Alis Dolor

[jeromeguce]

Ba’t DBTI sa Senior High?

(IMPORMATIBO)

Mula noong 2016, ang Don Bosco Makati ay isang eksklusibong destinasyon para sa mga mag-aaral na nakarating na sa huling punto bago ang kolehiyo – ang Senior High School. Sa kasalukuyan, ang mga Bosconian na nasa ilalim ng Departamento ng Senior High School ay nahahati sa apat na strand: Una sa lahat ay ang Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) strand. Ito ay para sa mga mag-aaral na nais kumuha ng kursong pangkolehiyo na may kaugnayan sa mga pisikal na agham, matematika, teknolohiya, at pag-iinhinyero. Batay sa kasaysayan ng mga nakalipas na lipon ng mag-aaral sa Senior High, ang STEM ay ang pinakasikat at kadalasang pinipiling kurso ng mga estudyante. Pangalawa ay ang Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM) strand. Kung hangad mong maging isang entrepreneur o kung plano mong magkaroon ng trabahong may kinalaman sa pinansiyal na sektor, ito ang pinakaangkop na strand para sa iyo. Sunod ay ang Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand. Ito naman ay angkop sa mga mag-aaral na tatahak ng karera sa larangan ng mga humanidades at agham panlipunan tulad ng pagiging guro, abogado, sikologo, at iba pa. Panghuli ay ang Arts and Design – Visual and Media Arts (AD) strand. Ang kursong ito ay para sa mga mag-aaral na nais palalimin ang kanilang kaalaman at kakayahan sa pagbuo ng iba’t ibang uri ng sining, parehong pisikal at digital. Ang bawat isa sa mga strand na ito ay may kaniya-kaniyang core, applied, at specialized na asignatura na ang layunin ay tustusan ang mga estudyante ng sapat na teknikal at akademikong kakayahan na higit na mapapakinabangan sa kolehiyo at lalo na sa trabaho sa hinaharap. Dagdag pa rito ang pagkakaroon ng asignaturang Christian Living at ang patuloy na pagsasagawa ng iba’t ibang gawaing pastoral na siyang humuhulma sa pananampalataya ng bawat Bosconian mula Kindergarten hanggang Senior High School.

Isinulat ni: Jerome Guce

[kenbean]

Decided to also post my Twisted Wonderland ocs on tumblr as I did with my twitter, but I’m not done finishing the other 9 ocs from Pomefiore, Ignihyde and Diasomnia. This post is accompanied by the character/item that they are based off of.

Heartslabyul Students:

Mavis Rosalba (1st Year / 16): The primadonna of Heartslabyul and often a victim to Riddle’s Unique Magic from how arrogant and spoiled they’ll act in regards of the dorm’s rules. 

Cathan Plaire (2nd Year / 17): Cathan is a happy-go-lucky guy with a golden heart, but immensely naive. He often gets picked on for being gullible and always falling for the same trick twice. He has a crush on Riddle, and gets nervous around him.

Elio Flores (3rd Year / 18): He’s a rather laidback student with a usually tired, stoic expression. He’s not often seen around in the dorm, choosing to lounge around in the grass and play a bit of his guitar. He’s quite an enigmatic presence.

Savannaclaw Students:

Dilan Aslan (2nd Year / 17): A follower and fan of Leona, he tends to play Devil’s advocate among his peers, enjoying the chaos that ensues as he slinks into the background. Unfortunately, he’s found himself having a crush on Ruggie.

Liron Allegri (3rd Year 18): Despite the sly look in his eyes, Liron is an honest, bashful dreamer, who enjoys nothing but running laps under the beautiful starry sky.  Boaz Felinus (3rd Year / 19): The always reliable orderly Boaz tends to wander the halls; he is often pointed out as a student willing to give a helping hand to other students, even those outside his dorm. He’s often referred to as a hall monitor in search of students who need help. 

Octavinelle Students:

Lux Seaver (2nd Year / 17): Lux enjoys nothing more the harmless, simple pranks and slacking off from time to time. With his childish charisma, he is often surrounded by people laughing and joking around with him.

Sorrel Ashengrotto (2nd Year / 17): As the younger twin brother to Azul, he has fair share of the limelight as he goes around hoping to do evil deeds, which never work to his favor. If anything, Sorrel does more good than evil with his deeds, fueling his petty inferiority complex.

Uri Strand (3rd Year / 18): With only those piercing red eyes shining through his opaque sunglasses, Uri is often mistaken as an intimidating person, even in his own dorm. In actuality, Uri is a gentle giant with a quiet voice but accompanied by his scary looks.

Scarabia Students: 

Maram Farid (3rd Year / 18): Maram is often described as competitive person, hating to be outsmarted by fellow peers. He is known for the sharp tongue and slight edge he carries with those he interacts with. Very few people have gotten to see the soft-hearted young man that resides in him.

Amasa Nader (2nd Year / 17): Amasa, upon initial meeting, can be egotistical with the way he strides around as if he owns the place, holding his head up high. He is someone who keeps to himself with an uncompromising attitude that is followed by strict moral codes. Despite his introverted nature, Amasa does little things to assist his fellow Scarabia peers.

Vardan Golshan ( 2nd Year / 17): People often mistakes Vardan as a rather active person for his radiating face, but that image easily shatters itself when he can be found napping in class or around school. He can be a tad arrogant about his memory, often relying on it to remember key points in the lecture and passing with flying colors.

[exoriiens]

A curious gaze was shining in Uri's eyes, the mismatches colors flickering across the other's face.

She didn't know him, he didn't smell familiar. He smelled of warmth, of spices that Uri couldn't quite pick up on but still had an eerie familiarity. She could smell his distress though, and it's what led her to assist him, her hands grasping at his arms to keep him upright.

"It's okay. I get like that too sometimes. The wall's cold, right? Chilly things help me break out of these moments too." Uri smiled reassuringly reaching up with one hand to gently brush a few stray strands of hair from his face. "Interesting thing to arrive to, though. You're the first person I've seen and I'm helping you..." She laughed.

infamiia asked: [ STEADY ]:     sender gently catches and guides the emotionally distressed receiver against a wall in order to physically steady them. | portal crossover shenanigans here comes uri, joshua-

He didn't know what had come over him. If it was the sickness he's always battling, the thing in his chest, or something else. Hard to tell these days. It was just a passing moment of confusion, then dizziness, and he found himself about to topple over. Luckily, there was someone there to catch him, and help him to the nearest surface; a chilled wall. The sensation was enough to stabilize him, briefly, and those crystalline-blue eyes locked with the other as his senses came back.

"I-- forgive me... I don't know what... what happened."

@infamiia